Hopewell Township

The Settlement Some Make Their Mark When The Palefaces Began To Appear At

WHEN THE PALEFACES BEGAN TO APPEAR AT HOME- - THE "MISSING LINK" IN THE CHAIN OF HISTORY PIONEERS - POVERTY RUN ORGANIZATION OF THE TOWNSHIP ELECTION A PART

Ware Coffins Millstones Tanneries

TAVERNS POSTOFFICE ; TH^ OFFICE ALTERNATELY IN MUSKINGUM AND LICKING COUNTIES - ROADS ; OLD STATE : MAYSVILLE PIKE ; COOPER MILL ROAD ; NATIONAL ROAD "THE POLICY ally. Men venture into unknown regions, simply hoping to find an Eldorado. Sometimes the winds of fate that take them thither carry good material for peopling a new world, and they make their mark as pioneers ; and, sometimes, other material, such as only make their mark when their name is required to confirm an act expressed in an instrument of writing. In this case, those of the first class have been content to be what their surroundings demanded, and absorbed the second class by virtue of their power to lead ; and confined their records to the absolute requirements, ignoring illustrative details. So that, for anything more, we are forced to be content with tradition, which teaches us that "the red men of the forest" roamed over this counti-y, and had a camp a short distance up what we call Kent's Run. They wei'e a small band - a dozen families or so. - and left for the Great West when the palefaces began to appear at home among them, which was in 1803 or '4, although some lingered, as if l6th to quit their favorite hunting grounds, as late as 1808 or '9. The white men who first made their acquaintance were also given to the chase, and doubtless followed in the path of the Indian, whose instinct led him into other and better hunting grounds ; and thus these pale-faced hunters became the avant couriers of the civilization that followed. This is "the missing link," in the chain of our history, that connects the aboriginal inhabitant with those we call first settlers.

Samuel Bonnifield relates that he came to Zanesville in 1805, and settled on "Poverty ran," Januarv ist, 1806, and that, at that time, a man named Hinton lived on that place ; John Carr and Joseph Jennings lived near : his uncle, James Wilson, came soon after; and that his father died about two years later. That, "on our waj' here, we stopped but a day or two in Zanesville, and also a couple of days at William's place, which is more on the National road. Four members of a family named Faid, living up the run, died in 1806. My brother Arnold was born here, in 1806. We came here in a four-horse wagon, and the trip occupied weeks, all of which time, with the exception of two nights, we camped out. A man named Hensle, and his family, were ii> our party, as was also William Wilson, an uncle, and a captain in the War of '12, who went up to Mackinaw. Hensle settled on the Flint Ridge road." In 1806, William Hamilton and his son-in-law. Rev. Robert Manley, with their families, removed to Hopewell township, from Maryland. They made a settlement in the township, taking a farm about a half mile east of where Asbury Chapel now stands. There had been squatters here before, but no regular settlement. Manley improved the farm on which Asbury Chapel now stands ; his was the first improvement in the township. He lived on this farm until his death, which occurred December 2ist, 1810.

here. They were both men of dignified and impressive characters, yet mild and conciHating. They were surrounded with such a religious atmosphere that you could not come in contact with it without feeling a desire to be better. The first thing these eminent men did in their new location, was to erect the altars of religion, and to offer unto God, in their cabins, their daily and weekly sacrifices. The influence of their example was such that the early settlers around them, as soon as they erected their cabins, with scarcely an exception, embraced religion and formed the church. I think it doubtful if ever two men settled in the west, have sent down upon posterity such an influence for good."

Major William Bonnifield left Shenandoah County, Virginia, in 1806, accompanied by his wife and five children ; located in Falls township - but on New Year's day, 1807, they settled on Poverty Run, on the farm now occupied by Samuel Bonnifield. Several other families settled in the neighborhood, among them, William Coffman, at whose camp was born the first white child in the township, William CoflTman, Jr., born in June, 1807. These were followed by Charles Franklin, John Colvin, E. B. Morgan, Curtis Willey, Sr., and John Clabagh. Curtis Willey, Jr., thinks hisTather came to Hopewell township, in 1808, from Green County, Pennsylvania ; he was a farmer, and lived on John Colvin's place for four years. He then moved to the place now owned by him, and built a log cabin, which is still standing. When he moved here, there had not been a tree cut. Soon after building his cabin, and clearing a field, he planted an orchard ; having purchased the trees from John Colvin. They are all gone now.

John Colvin immigrated from Green County, Pennsylvania, in 1806, and settled on the place now owned by his son James. He lived here a few years, sold out, and returned to Pennsylvania, but came back and re-purchased the place.

James Boyle was one of the early settlers. He was born in this county in 1805, or 1806. He was a surveyor many years, and left here for Cincinnati. When last heard from he was surveying in Texas.

In 1810, three brothers named Richey, came here. They kept batchelor's hall, and were called "Babes in the Wood." They lived on Porter's land.

February 3, 181 2, a petition was presented to the County Commissioners, from a number of the inhabitants of Madison and Falls townships, praying to have a new township (by the name of Hopewell) struck off" the townships aforesaid. And to this petition a remonstrance was presented. The Commissioners, however, decided to grant the petition, and ordered an election for the officers of the new township, to he held at the house of John Colvin. The first election was held the following year, at the house of James Rollins, nearwhere Colvin now lives. No printed tickets were used, for none were to be had ; and at that election Thomas Higginbotham and Simon Simons were elected Justices of the Peace ; and, notwithstanding the election was not held at the place appointed, the officers chosen were permitted to serve in their several capacities.

September i, 1817, all that part of Falls township which was in the first township of the ninth range of military lands, was annexed to Hopewell township ; and, on the 22d of February, 1819, so much of Hopewell as lies east of Licking Creek, was taken from that township, and annexed to Licking township, so that the boundaries of Hopewell township were not completed until this time.

Henry Winegardner and wife, came from Loudon County, Virginia, in 1814 ; his cabin was small - built of seventeen trees. They removed to Mt. Sterling, in 1830, and kept tavern there several years. Conrad Emeny, and James Smith, settled here about the same time. Adam Smith had a saw mill, in Gratiot, about that time. George Dent came to Muskingum County with his father and mother, in 1808. His mother was Rebecca Hamilton. They came from Monongahela County, Pennsylvania. Dent emigrated to Putnam County, Illinois, and was a volunteer in the "Black Hawk War," in 1832, and was afterwards County Assessor, of Putnam County, one year. In 1847, he was Clerk of the Circuit Court, Judge one term, and a member of the House of Representatives, one term. He afterwards moved to Minonk, Illinois, and at the time of his death, 1879, he was Police Magistrate of that citjr.

John H. Dillon entered a large part of the land around here, and had large quantities of wood cut for the furnace, at Dillon's Falls ; and a great deal of wood was suffered to rot.

Joseph Richey was once Sheriff of Muskingum County - a public functionary most of his life - Postmaster at different times, Township Treasurer, and Justice of the Peace, and in "ye olden time, a Colonel of militia : he came here in 1836.

Pioneer Mechanics, Stores, Etc

As long ago as 1812, the shop of Peter Crumrine, the blacksmith, was a familiar place to every one in the township, who needed smithing done, and this son of Vulcan, according to tradition, was a well muscled representative of his class. He worked at his forge late and early, and the ring of his anvil was music that always betokened prosperity and good cheer, for when his bellows roared, we always knew that some^ body had an iron in the fire ; that their work

The first store was that started by Francis Tresize. He had a small stock of goods just east of the bridge over Kent's Run, on the Thornsville road, about 1827. A year or so later, he opened up near Asbvuy Chapel, and when the National Road was built he removed to where Hopewell now is; and kept a store there several years. The next store was kept by Samuel Dolman, at Mt. Sterling, in 1833.

Shinn's Distillery . - A man named Shinn had a distillery about half a mile' from Colvin's, on Kent's Run, in 181 2. Nathaniel Richley had a distillery on the Burley place, in 181 5, and conducted that business about three years ; and Samuel Richley was engaged in the business on the Porter place about the same time.

It may be a question with the reader, as it has often been with the. historian, what benefit is derived from the mention of first things. In reply we have said very little, so far as the present influence goes, unless we heed the words of the poet:

And see to it that we have a business worthy of our best endeavor, and then, making the most of it,, we will be able to avoid being classed with those whose record may too often be comprised in the brief sentence, he lived at such a time, and died at such a time !

Dr. E. B. Bain was the first resident physician. He located a little north of Hopewell, in 1828. He subsequently moved to Gratiot, and then to Mt. Sterling.

Schools And Educational Intekics'I'S

Perhaps no township in the county had a nobler colony to settle within its borders that is the first pride of Hopewell. The earlier pioneers are described as men of education, and soon after establishing their homes, gave attention to schools. The school house in the beginning, however, was, as everything else, utilized where and when most needed, and until 1812 there were none regularly attended, as the opening of farm homes - when there were children in the family - made it necessary that even little hands should take a part.

The township was divided into school districts as early as 1835, ^'^-^ ^ common interest in education was manifested, and good and convenient school houses were built; and in 1840, the township contained eleven districts, with a comfortable house in nearly every one. The township was again divided in 1848, and the number reduced to nine ; and again divided in 1852, under the new school law, and the number of school districts reduced to eight. District No. Six having a stone school house, was denied a new building. In 1873, the ninth district was taken off" No. One, and a new district and school house built. Henry Dick, Esq., has kindly furnished the following information :

A school in District No. i was taught in an old house, near the present house, in 1814. The hewed log house was built in 1815. The first teacher was Abraham Frey, who taught one year.

No. 6 (the Asbury District), had, first, a logschool house a little north of Asbury Chapel, built in 1824-5. This gave way to a stone house in 1844, and that was torn down and a frame building erected in 1872. The teachers, "in an early da}^" were generally mindful ol the proverb, "The rod and reproof give wisdom,"" often saying to themselves. "I will visit their transgression with the rod." John Pryor was a teacher here in an early day, and he was a good whipper ; so was James O. Perry. John Duvall, the first teacher, made his mark on many a back.

No. 8 (Mt. Sterling School) was held in the old church, and was subsequently in a log house built for the purpose ; and, in 1852, a new building was erected, to which additions were made in 1876.

Mt. Sterling Academy, under the care of Prof. Robert Morrison, has attained an enviable reputation, so much so that pupils resort to it from a very unusual distance for those attending such schools.

The importance of a mill in the settlement, no matter how pressing, was frequently ignored by the pioneer, who regarded other advantages, such as hunting, fishing, good grazing, an extended range, and, if it could be had, water privileges, by which was understood a good site for a- dam, whereby the power of water could be utilized in propelling machinery, particularly of a mill. With these objects in view, it was a common thing for a pioneer to locate, without regard to nearness to a mill, and therefore going to mill was an event of notable interest in the family, not unattended with danger, and which always awakened fear in the mother of the house-' hold when her lord was delayed, which was sometimes the case. And, on the other hand, it was a time of joyous expectation on the part of the "little folks," who invariably received presents from papa on his return, the mill being situated near "the store." And then, "mill flour" was so much more desirable than home-made.

According to tradition, the old settlers from this region had to go to Zanesville to mill. " It was a little tub mill where we got the grain ground, and had to sift it oui'selves as the mill had no bolting attachment. We traveled down Timber Run from Spencer's and James Tanner's, and forded the river at Buckingham's warehouse. Sometirhes, when the river was up, we had to make our flour or meal at home, by pounding. The grain was carried to the mill on horseback, generally, three sacks for a grist ; two sacks on one horse and one on another. The horses were seldom shod in those days, and sometimes one would slip while crossing the stream, spoiling the grain, and sometimes creating a panic for bread at home.'

number of people on horseback on their way to this mill ; and at times they regarded themselves fortunate^to get there, so bad was the road, and so treacherous the streams they had to ford. It was usually a two days trip to Zanesville for either flour or salt.

The first sawmill in this township was up Kent's Run, from Colvin's, and owned by one Reese. About the same time, 1814, there was a small gristmill up Kent's Run ; this was running in 1820. There was another small gristmill on Poverty Run, near Bonnifield's place ; who owned or run these mills is not known, the memory of " the oldest inhabitant " can only testify that there were such mills. " Adam Smith had a mill on the Licking county line, about the same time ; and there was Jacob Martin's mill, on Kent's Run, a lumber and grist mill."

Anno Domini, 1814, John Colvin planted a nursery, and soon after set out an orchard. From his nursery he furnished trees to his neighbors. His first orchard consisted of apple and peach trees ; he obtained his seed from Pennsylvania. One apple tree of the first planting was alive in 1879.

Henry Winegardner set out an orchard in 181 7 ; his trees were brought from Perry county, and consisted mostly of apple and cherry. His peach seed was obtained in Fairfield county, and planted in 1818 ; one of those trees lived until 1876, and bore fruit two years previous.

This is a paradise for potters ; from time immemorial, they have plied their vocation with success, in this township. And yet, while this is true, most of the establishments have had but a brief existence. This may be accounted for, perhaps, on the hypothesis, that the clay was abundant, the art easily acquired, and the wares cheap, on which account the potter often sought other avenues to wealth, and sometimes returned when these failed. The earliest pottery of w^hich we have any trace, was inaugurated by one Burley, not far from Mt. Sterling. A little more definite tradition comes to us concerning a pottery a little further up the run than the present one. It was built in 1822, by a man named Castele ; he sold his establishment, in 1825, to John Burley, and it has been in the family ever since. This old shop burned down in 1828, and in 1831, was rebuilt by Burley, just east of the present establishment, which was erected in 1875.

Earthenware Coffins

This is a new enterprise, invented by Allen & Son, at Mt. Sterling. They have applied for a patent. These burial cases are burned in " nests " of four or five ; they admit of being colored with almost any desired pigment, and are but little heavier than wood. They admit, also, of being hermetically sealed, and, unless broken, will endure longer than metallic cases.

Millstones were first made in this township, in 1825, by §amuel Drumm ; he continued in this business until 1840. The stones wei'e made of a regular buhr stone, found in the northwestern part of the township. Mr. Drumm made stones for all of the mills in this part of the State, and shipped many to various parts of the United

States, delivering them at Nashport, and thence by the canal and its connections. These stones were known as the " Flint Ridge Buhr," and regarded superior in quality. Some of the stones are now in Zanesville.

There was a tannery at Gratiot, in 1830, but the establishment was short liyecJ. One at Mt. Sterling, about the same time, shared the same fate.

In 1836, one Henderson started a tannery, at Mt. Sterling. This establishment passed into the hands of George Rutledge, in 1854, and he continued the busines until 1866, when the concern was sold to the Van Allen's, who turned it into a pottery.

Institutions by this name, at this time, were not expected to furnish such luxuries as we are accustomed to find in first-class taverns in large cites, so that any one Was able to keep tavern, and they sprang up along the line of the National Road as if by magic, shortly after tha|: road became a thoroughfare. About the year 1830, Henry Winegardner removed from his farm to Mt. Sterling, and " kept tavern," on the north side of the road. He was followed soon after by a Mr. Blair, who opened a tavern on the south side of the road. This was a sufficient designation at that time, and for years afterward, as Mt. Sterling was a small place.

There was no postoffice in the township until 1830. At this time, the National Road was completed through this section of country, and a postoffice was established at Hopewell, where it was kept a few years, and then removed to Mt. Sterling, and has been kept there ever since, retaining, however, the name, Hopewell Postoffice.

A postoffice was established about the same time at Gratiot. This office being at the juncture of Muskingum and Licking counties, or nearly so, has been moved from one county to the other, according to the residence of the Postmaster, who is appointed on the recommendation of the people. In 1880, the Postmaster was a resident of Licking county, and the post office was accordingly in that county.

Another at Pleasant Valley, on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, which is the only railroad postoffice in the township. It is called the Licking Valley Postoffice.

A daily mail is received and distributed at each of these offices, except Cottage Hill. Much might be said concerning the advantages of mail facilities, but the}^ are too well knowrt to render this permissible. We hazard nothing in saying, however, that next to our public schools, no other agency is so conducive to the diffusion of knowledge, or does so much to fraternize the

The road question is always an important one, particularly in a "timbered country." This, however, is too self-evident to admit of elucidation. The reader, however, will not object to a simple statement concerning the roads of an early day. The original roads of the country were trails, or much frequented paths. There were no wagon roads, and when it was possible, for a wagon to pass and not turn over, or stick fast in a mud hole or swamp, and this was repeated one or more times, this did not constitute a road, as now understood. Such a road, as we know, requires work, and sometimes a large amount of stone and other material, to bring it to our standard. And such was not then possible, for highways had not been determined upon. These are mere allusions, going to show how it was "in the beginning." Therefore, when Hamilton and Manley came into this region, they found "nature unadorned" with roads, and had to cut down trees in their chosen route, before they could proceed with their wagons to their destination. This act alone demonsti-ates their firmness of purpose, which, it is almost needless to say, characterized their subsequent efforts in life, and won for them the pround victor}' of industry. John Colvin came in i8o7,a year later. There was no direct road, from Zanesville, and they moved out the old "State Road," near where the Maysville Pike" now is, and then struck across the country.

"The National Road," our great thoroughfare, was built in 1830, and -from that time to the present, there has been a steady improvement in the township.

Built Timber Run Baptist Church

The church was built in 1832, for a society known as Predestinarian Baptists. It was located on land belonging to Robert Bolin, but the site was not deeded to the society until 1841, at which time the Trustees were David Allen, James Fairbanks and John Burle}-.

Agricultural Implements

This township escaped some of the hardships of having to use the primitive styles of implements. The patent plow was in use by most of the eariy settlers, and the millenial era of improved agricultural implements was upon them. The days of tramping grain out, or threshing with flails, was passing away.

A thresher worked by horse power, the first thresher in the township, was owned, in 1837, by Frederick Beams. It was made by John Van Home, in West Zanesville. The horse power is spoken of as a curiosity, but as no accurate description can be had, the curious will have the pleasure of the antiquarian in finding it out ; we confess our inability to do so.

Improved Stock

Those who have given attention to this subject, have mostly engaged in sheep growing. Louis Ijams brought a flock of Merino sheep here, in 1845. They were a part of Brownlee's flock, in Pennsylvania. James Colvin bought Spanish Merino sheep of Shipps and Armstrong, in 1856. They were from Vermont. In 1864, Shipps and Coulter brought some to Mt. Sterling, when James Colvin bought three, having brought some from Pennsylvania, in 1863.

Of the others who engaged in Merino sheep breeding here, were the Pryor's and Leroy Robinson. The former purchased of Shipps and Armstrong, in 1856, and the latter of Jones and Rockwell, and of Parmalee, in 1864.

George Pollock was one of the first to breed fine sheep extensively in this township. He began about 1850. His first fine Merino was known as "212," purchased in Vermont, of George Campbell, for $236.00. He subsequently sold a lamb of this stock, for $300.00.

Samuel Campbell and S. W. Prior bought sixteen ewes from Uriah Shipps and Coulters' at .$62.50 each. These sheep were from Vei-mont, and bred to Pollock's "212," spoken of above. Mr. Campbell kept them on shares two years, and started his fine flock from the lambs. Four years ago, he sold eleven ewes for $200., and he has sold a number of bucks at $25.00 each.

Odd Fellowship

Horicon Lodge, No. 192, I. O. O. F., was February 23d, 1852, at Brownsville, .and subsequently moved to Gratiot. The officers at the time of organization were :

The charter members were A. R. Jordan, Jerome Waite, J. R. Thrall, John F. Bairi and Charles Lindsey. Other members were, William Thomas, Armistead Dodd, Dr. Thomas Hood, James Payne, Frank Burton, George Johnston, George McMullen and John Smart.

The number of members, in 1878, was fortyfive ; the number of Past Grands, was twentyone ; initiated, two : reinstated, two ; total assets, $3,105.74.

Mt. Sterling Band

The Mt. Sterling Band was organized in 1873, by D. S. Brown, who became leader. The band consists of nine members and pieces. They practice regularly, and have a good local reputation.

The first graveyard in this township, was on the old Reamy place ; corresponding to the south quarter of section 9, T. 8, R. 15 ; subsequently owned by Alexander Smith.

The Bonnifield graveyard, has some evidences of great age, being allotted by some who sleep there, for example : Jacob Reamy, died in the eightieth year of his age ; Major William Bonnifield, at eighty-five and six months ; Mary Bonnifield, at seventy-four ; Mary, wife of Thomas Simpson, at sixty-four.

The Beula graveyard list, is equalty remarkable. Samuel Frey died April 9, 1848, aged eighty-six years ; Rachel, his wife, died January 31st, 1859, aged eighty-two; Rolley Taylor died January 2d, 1847, in the eighty-third year of her age ; Samuel Fairlamb died Februaiy i6th, 1853, aged seventy-six; Mary, his wife, died August 30th, 1853, aged seventy-five ; Jane, wife of Thomas Wickham, died March ist, 1858, aged ninety years ; Thomas Wickham, died June 13th, 1851, aged eighty-two; Sarah, his wife, died April nth, 1842, aged sixty-four; and Daniel Crainner, died July 24th, 1867, aged eighty-seven years.

The earlier records of elections for township officers, may never be found, and having nothing to indicate who they were, we shall not indulge in conjecture.

In 1838, the Trustees were John Morgan, Samuel Bonnifield and John Porter ; Clerk, David McCracken ; Treasurer, Samuel Colvin ; Constables, Joseph W. Crown and John Colvin ; and, in 1849, Trustees same as above ; Clerk, Mahlon Sims ; Treasurer, Samuel Colvin ; Constables, same.

1840. Trustees, Morgan, Bonnifield and Porter ; Clerk, David McCracken : Treasurer, Samuel Colvin : Constables, J. W. Crown and Osborn Shaw.

1856. Trustees, Henry Woolf, W. A. Morrison, J. Kreager; Clerk, John Ligget, who refused to serve, and Henry Dick was appointed ; Treasurer, S. C. Field ; Assessor, B. B. Morgan ; Constables, Daniel Norman, Jacob Burrier.

1864. Trustees, David McCracken, Nathan Prior, Sol. Minnick ; Clerk, Joseph Porter; Treasurer, A. M. Field ; Assessor, A. J. Crawford ; Constables, John Higginbotham, James Sherrard.

Source changes here: from History of Muskingum County, Ohio, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Prominent Men and Pioneers, by Various, published 1882; 4,309 words in this source stream.

When The Palefaces Began To Appear At Nately In Muskingum And Licking Counties

The settlement of this township is a fair illustration of the settlement of new territory generally. Men venture into unknown regions, simply hoping to find an Eldorado. Sometimes the winds of fate that take them thither carry good material for peopling a new world, and they make their mark as pioneers; and, sometimes, other material, such as only make their mark when their name is required to confirm an act expressed in an instrument of writing. In this case, those of the first class have been content to

-be what their surroundings demanded, and absorbed the second class by virtue of their power to lead; and confined their records to the absolute requirements, ignoring illustrative details. So that, for anything more, we are forced to be content with tradition, which teaches us that ''the red men of the forest'" roamed over this country, and had a camp a 'short distance up what we call Kent's Run. They were a small band - a dozen families or so - and left for the Great West when the palefaces began to appear at home among them, which was in 1803 or '4, although some lingered, as if loth to quit their favorite hunting grounds, as late as 1808 or '9. The white men who first made their acquaintance were also given to the chase, and doubtless followed in the path of the Indian, whose instinct led him into other and better hunting grounds ; and thus these pale-faced hunters became the avant courters of the civilization that followed. This is ''the missing link," in the chain of our history, that connects the aboriginal inhabitant with those we call first settlers.

Samuel Bonnitield relates that he came to Zanesville in 1805, and settled on '* Poverty run," January Ist, 1806, and that, at that time, a man named Hinton lived on that place ; John Carr and Joseph Jennings lived near ;,his uncle, James Wilson, came soon after; and that his father died about two years later. That, ''on our way here, we stopped but a day or two in Zanesville, and also a couple of days at William's place, which is more on the National road. Four members of a family named Faid, living up the run, died in 1806. My brother Arnold was born here, in 1806. We came here in a four-horse wagon, and the trip occupied weeks, all of which time, with the exception of two nights, we camped out. A man named Hensle, and his family, were in our party, as was also William Wilson, an uncle, and a captain in the War of '12, who. went up to Mackinaw. Hensle settled on the Flint Ridge road.' In 1806, William Hamilton and his son-in-law, Rev. Robert Manley, with their families, removed to Hopewell township, from Maryland. They made a settlement in the of where Asbury Chapel now stands. There had been squatters here before, but no regular settlement. Manley improved the farm on which Asbury Chapel now stands; his was the first im-- provement in the township. He lived on this farm until his death, which occurred December 21st, 1810.

here. They were both men of dignified and impressive characters, yet mild and conciliating. They were surrounded with such a religious atmosphere that you could not come in contact with it without feeling a desire to be better. The first thing these eminent men did in their new location, was to erect the altars of religion, and to offer unto God, in their cabins, their daily and weekly sacrifices. The influence of their example was such that the early settlers around them, as soon as they erected their cabins, with scarcely an exception, embraced religion and formed the church. I think it doubtful if ever two men settled in the west, have sent down upon posterity such an influence for good." Major William Bonnifield left Shenandoah County, Virginia, in 1806, accompanied by his wife and five children; located in Falls township - but on New Year's day, 1807, they settled on Poverty Run, on the farm now occupied by Samuel Bonnifield. Several other families settled in the neighborhood, among them, William Coffman, at whose camp was born the first white child in the township, William Coffman, Jr., born in June, 1807. These were. followed by Charles Franklin, John Colvin, E. B. Morgan, Curtis Willey, Sr., and John Clabagh. Curtis Willey, Jr., thinks his father came to Hopewell township, in 1808, from Green County, Pennsylvania; he was a farmer, and lived on John Colvin's place for four years. Hethen moved to the place now owned by'him, and built a log cabin, which is still standing. When he moved here, there had not been a tree cut. Soon after building his cabin, and clearing a field, he planted an

John Colvin immigrated from Green County, Pennsylvania, in 1806, and settled on the place now owned by his son James. He lived here a few years, sold out, and returned to Pennsyl- _vania, but came back and re-purchased the place.

James Boyle was one of the early settlers. He was born in this county in 1805, or 1806. He was a surveyor many years, and left here for Cincinnati. When last heard from he was _ surveying in Texas.

In 1810, three brothers named Richey, came here. They kept batchelor's hall, and were called ''Babes in the Wood."' They lived on Porter's land.

February 3, 1812, a petition was presented to the County Commissioners, from a number of the inhabitants of Madison and Falls townships, praying to have a new township (by the name of Hopewell) struck off the townships aforesaid. And to this petition a remonstrance was presented. The Commissioners, however, decided to grant the petition, and ordered an election for the officers of the new township, to he held at the house of John Colvin. The first election was held the following year, at the house of James Rollins, near where Colvin now lives. No printed tickets were used, for none were to be had; and at that election Thomas Higginbotham and Simon Simons were elected Justices of the Peace ; and, notwithstanding the election was not held at the place appointed, the officers chosen were permitted to serve in their several capacities.

September 1, 1817, all that part of Falls township which was.in the first township of the ninth range of military lands, was annexed to Hopewell township; and, on the 22d of February, 1819, so much of Hopewell as lies east of Licking Creek, was taken from that township, and annexed to Licking township, so that the boundaries of Hopewell township were not completed until this time.

Henry Winegardner and wife, came trom Loudon County, Virginia, in 1814; his cabin was small - built of seventeen trees. They removed to Mt. Sterling, in 1830, and kept tavern there several years. Conrad Emeny, and James Smith, settled here about the same time. Adam Smith had a saw mill, in Gratiot, about that time. George Dent came to Muskingum County with his father and mother, in 1808. His mother was Rebecca Hamilton. They came from Monongahela County, Pennsylvania. Dent emigrated to Putnam County, Illinois, and was a volunteer in the ''Black Hawk War," in 1832, and was afterwards County Assessor, of Putnam County, one year. In 1847, he was Clerk of the Circuit Court, Judge one term, and a member of the House of Representatives, one term. He afterwards moved to Minonk, [linvis, and at the time of his death, 1879, he was Police Magistrate of that city.

John H. Dillon entered a large part of the land around here, and had large quantities of wood cut for the furnace, at Dillon's Falls: anda great deal of wood was suffered to rot.

Joseph Richey was once Sheriff of Muskingum County - a public functionary most of his life - Postmaster at different times, Township Treasurer, and Justice of the Peace, and in 'tye olden time, a Colonel of militia : he came here in 1836.

Pioneer Mechanics, Stores, Et

As long ago as 1812, the shop of Peter Crumrine, the blacksmith, was a familiar place to every One in the township, who needed smithing done, and this son of Vulcan, according to tradition, was a well muscled representative of his class. He worked at his forge late and early, and the ring of his anvil was music that always betokened prosperity and good cheer, tor when his bellows roared, we always knew that somebody had an iron in the fire; that their work

The first store was that started by Francis Tresize. Hehad a small stock of goods just east of the bridge over Kent's Run, on the Thornsville road, about 1827. A year or so later, he opened up near Asbury Chapel, and when the National Road was built he removed to where Hopewell now is, and kept a store there several years. The next store was kept by

Shinn's Distillery. - A man named Shinn had a distillery about half a mile from Colvin's, on Kent's Run, in 1812. Nathaniel Richley had a distillery on the Burley place, in 1815, and conducted that business about three years; and Samuel Richley was engaged in the business on the Porter place about the same time.

It may be a question with the reader, as it has often been with the historian, what benefit is derived from the mention of first things. In reply we have said very. little, so far as the present influence goes, unless we heed the words of the poet:

And see to it that we have a business worthy of our best endeavor, and then, making the most of it, we will be able to avoid being classed with those whose record may too often be comprised in the brief sentence, he lived at such a time, and died at such a time!

Dr. E. B. Bain was the first resident physician. He located a little north of Hopewell, in 1828. He subsequently moved to Gratiot, and then to Mt. Sterling.

Schools And Educational Interests

- Perhaps no township in the county had a nobler colony to settle within its borders that is the first pride of Hopewell. 'The earlier pioneers are described as men of education, and soon after establishing their homes, gave attention to schools. The school house in the beginning, however, was, as everything else, utilized where and when most needed, and until 1812 there were none regularly attended, as the opening of farm homes - when there were children in the family - made it necessary that even little hands should take a part.

The township was divided into school districts _ as early as 1835, and a common interest in education was manifested, and good and convenient school houses were built ; and in 1840, the township contained eleven districts, with a comfortable house in nearly every one. The township was again divided in 1848, and the number reduced to nine; and again divided in 1852, under the new school law, and 'the number of school districts reduced to eight. District No.- Six having a stone school house, was denied a new building. In 1873, the ninth district was taken off No. One, and a new district and school house built. Henry Dick, Esq., has kindly furnished the following information :

A school in District No. 1 was taught in an old house, near the present house, in 1814. The hewed log house was built in 1815. The first teacher was Abraham Frey, who taught one year. :

No. 6 (the Asbury District), had, first, a log school house a little north of Asbury Chapel, bujlt in 1824-5. This gave way to a stone house in 1844, and that was torn down and a frame The teachers, 'tin an early day,' were generally mindful of the proverb, ''The rod and reproof give wisdom," often saying to themselves, ''I will visit their transgression with the rod." John Pryor was a teacher here in an early day, and he was a good whipper ; so was JamesQO. Perry. John Duvall, the first teacher, made his mark on many a back.

old church, and was subsequently in a log house built for the purpose ; and, m 1852, a new building was erected, to which additions were made in 1876.

Mt. Sterling Academy, under the care of Prof. Robert Morrison, has attained an enviable reputation, so much so that pupils resort to it from a very unusual distance for those attending such schools.

The importance of a mill in the settlement, no matter how pressing, was frequently ignored by the pioneer, who regarded other advantages, such as hunting, fishing, good grazing, an extended range, and, if it could be had, water privileges, by which was understood a_ good site for a dam, whereby the power of water could be utilized in propeiling machinery, particularly of a mill. With these objects in view, it was a common thing for a pionegr to locate, without regard to nearness to a mill, and therefore going to mill was an event of notable interest in the family, not unattended with danger, and which always awakened fearin the mother of the house-~ hold when her lord was delayed, which was sometimes the case. And, on the other hand, it was a time of joyous expectation on the part of the ''litthe folks, who invariably received presents from papa on hisreturn, the mill being situated near ''the store.'' And then, 'mill flour"' was so much more desirable than home-made.

According to tradition, the old settlers from this region had to go to Zanesville to mill. '* It was a little tub mill where we got the grain ground, and had to sift it ourselves as the mill had no bolting attachment. We traveled down Timber Run from Spencer's and James Tanner's, and forded the river at Buckingham's warehouse. Sometimes, when the river was up, we had to make our flour or meal 'at home, by pounding. The grain was carried to the mill on horseback, generally, three sacks for a grist; two sacks on one horse and one on another. The horses were seldom shod in those days, and sometimes .one would slip while crossing the stream, spoiling the grain, and sometimes creating a panic for bread at home."

The mill at Dillon's Falls was extensively patronized. It was a common sight to see a number of people on horseback on their way to this mill; and at times they regarded themselves fortunate to get there, so bad was the road, and so treacherous the streams they had to ford. It was usually a two days trip to Zanesville for either flour or salt.

The First Sawmill

The first sawmill in this township was up Kent's Run, from Colvin's, and owned by one Reese. About the same time, 1814, there was a small gristmill up Keat's Run; this was running in 1820. There was another small gristmill on Poverty Run, near Bonnifield's* place; who owned or run these mills is not known, the memory of '' the oldest inhabitant' can only testify that there were such mills. '' Adam Smith had a mili on the Licking county line,about the same time; and there was Jacob Martin's mill, on Kent's Run, a lumber and grist mill."

"And the Lord God planted a garden to the Eastward in Eden; " "Almighty, thine this universal frame, Thus wondrous fair; thyself how wondrous then! Unspeakable, who sitt'st above these heavens, To us invisible, or dimly seen In these thy lowest works; yet these declare Thy goodness beyond thought, and power divine."

Anno Domini, 1814, John Colvin planted a nursery, and soon after set out an orchard. From his nursery he furnished trees to his neighbors. ° His first orchard consisted of apple and peach trees ; he obtained his seed from Pennsy]-

This is a paradise for potters ; from time immemorial, they have plied their vocation with success, in this township. And yet, while this is true, most of the establishments have had but a brief existence. This may be accounted for, perhaps, on the hypothesis, that the clay was abundant, the art easily acquired, and the wares cheap, on which account the potter often sought other avenues to wealth, and sometimes returned when these failed. The earliest pottery of which we have any trace, was inaugurated by one Burley, not far from Mt. Sterling. A little more definite tradition comes to us concerning a pottery a little further up the run than the present one. It was built in 1822, by a man named Castele; he sold his establishment, in 1825, to John Burley, and it has been in the family ever since. This old shop burned down in 1828, and in 1831, was rebuilt by Burley, just east of the present establishment, which was erected in 1875.

Earthenware Coffins

This is a new enterprise, invented by Allen & Son, at Mt. Sterling. They have applied for a patent. These burial cases are burned in ''nests'' of four or five ; they admit of being colored with almost any desired pigment, and are but little heavier than wood. They admit, also, of being hermetically sealed, and, unless broken, will endure longer than metallic cases.

part of the township. Mr. Drumm made stones for all of the mills in this part of the State, and shipped many .to various parts of the United by the canal and its connections. These stones were known as the '* Flint Ridge Buhr," and regarded superior in quality. Some of the stones are now in Zanesville.

There was a tannery at Gratiot, in 1830, but the establishment was short lived. One at Mt. Sterling. about the same time, shared the same fate.

In 1836, one [lenderson started a tannery, at Mt. Sterling. This establishment passed into the hands of George Rutledge, in 1854, and he continued the busines until 1866, when the concern was sold to the Van Allen's, who turned it into a pottery.

Institutions by this name, at this time, were not expected to furnish such luxuries as we are accustomed to find in first-class taverms in large cites, so that any one was able to keep tavern, and they sprang up along the line of the National Road as if by magic, shortly after that north side of the road. Ile was followed soon after by a Mr. Blair. who opened a tavern on the south side of the road. This was a sufficient designation at that time, and for years afterward, as Mt. Sterling was a small place.

There was no postoffice in the township until 1830. At this time, the National Road was completed through this section of country, and a postoffice was established at Hopewell, where it was kept a few years, and then removed to Mt. Sterling, and has been kept there ever since, retaining, however, the name, Hopewell Postoffice.

A postofiice was established about the same time at Gratiot. This office being at the juncture of Muskingum and Licking counties, or nearly o, has been moved from one county to the other, according to the residence of the Postmaster, who is appointed on the recommendation of the people. In 1880, the Postmaster was a resident of Licking county. and the post office was accordingly in that county.

A daily mail is received and distributed at each of these offices, except Cottage Hill. Much might be said concerning the advantages of mail facilities, but they are too well known to render this permissible. We hazard nothing in saying, however, that next to our public 'schools, no other agency is so conducive to the diffusion of knowledge, or does so much to fraternize the

The road question is always an important one, particularly in a 'timbered country." This, however, is too self-evident to admit of elucidation. Bie reader, however, will not object to a simple statement concerning the roads of an early day. The original roads of the country were trails, or much #requented paths. There were no wagon roads, and when it was possible for a wagon to pass and not turn over, or stick fast in a mud hole or swamp, and this was repeated one or more times, this did not constitute a road, as now understood. Such aroad, as we know, requires work, and sometimes a large amount of stone and other material, to bring it to our standard. And such was not then possible, for highways had not been determined upon. These are mere allusions, going to show how it was ''in the beginning." Therefore, when Hamilton and Manley came into this region, they found ''nature unadorned"' with roads, and had they could proceed with their wagons to their destination. 'This act alone demonstrates their firmness of purpose, which, it is almost needless to say, characterized their subsequent efforts in life, and won for them the pround victory of industry. Jobn Colvin came in 1807,a year later. There was no direct road from Zanesville, and they moved out the old ''State Road," near where the Maysville Pike'' now is, and then struck across the country.

**The National Road," our great thoroughfare, was built in 1830, and from that time to the present, there has been a steady improvement in the township.

Timber Run Baptist Church

The church was built in 1832, for a society known as Predestinarian Baptists. It was located on land belonging to Robert Bolin, but the site was not deeded to the society until 1841, at which time the Trustees were David Allen, James Fairbanks and John Burley.

Agricultural Implements

This township escaped some of the hardships of having to use the primitive styles of implements. The patent plow was in use by most of the early settlers, and the millenial era of improved agricultural implements was upon them. The days of tramping grain out, or threshing with flails, was passing away.

A thresher worked by horse power, the first thresher in the township, was owned, in 1837, by Frederick Beams. It was made by John Van Horne, in West Zanesville. The horse power is spoken of asa curiosity, but as no accurate description can be had, the curious will have the pleasure of the antiquarian in finding it out; we confess our inability to do so.

Improved Stock

IMPROVED STOCK. Those who have. given attention to this subjects have mostly engaged in sheep growing. ouis Ijams brought a flock of Merino sheep here, in 1845. They were a part of Brownlee's flock, in Pennsylvania. James Colvin bought Spanish Merino sheep of Shipps and Armstrong, in 1856. They were from Vermont. In 1864, Shipps and Coulter brought some to Mt. Sterling, when James Colvin bought three, having brought some from Pennsylvania, in 1863.

Of the others who engaged in Merino sheep breeding here, were the Pryor's and Leroy Robinson. The former purchased of Shipps and Armstrong, in 1856, and the latter of Jones and Rockwell, and of Parmalee, in 1864.

George Pollock was one of the first to breed fine sheep extensively in this township. He began about 1850. His first fine Merino was known as ''212, purchased in Vermont, of George Campbell, for $236.00. He subsequently sold a lamb of this stock, for $300.00.

~and bred to Pollock's ''212,'' spoken of above. Mr. Campbell kept them on shares two years, and started his fine flock from the lambs. Four vears ago, he sold eleven ewes for $200., and he has sold a number of bucks at $25.00 each.

Odd Fellowship

Horicon Lodge, No. 192, I. O. O. F., was organized February 23d, 1852, at Brownsville, and subsequently moved to Gratiot. The officers at the time of organization were:

The charter members were A. R. Jordan, Jerome Waite, J. R. Thrall, John F. Bain and Charles Lindsey. Other members were, William Thomas, Armistead Dodd, Dr. Thomas Hood, James Payne, Frank Burton, George Johnston, George McMullen and John Smart.

Mt. Sterling Band

The Mt. Sterling Band was organized in 1873, by D. S. Brown, who became leader. The band consists of nine members and pieces. They practice regularly, and have a good local reputation.

The first graveyard in this township, was on the old Reamy place ; corresponding to the south quarter of section g, T. 8, R. 15; subsequently owned by Alexander Smith.

The Bonnifield graveyard, has some evidences of great age, being allotted by some who sleep there, for example: Jacob a died in the eightieth year of his age; Major William Bonnifield, at eighty-five and six months ; Mary Bonnifield, at seventy-four; Mary, wife of Thomas Simpson, at sixty-four.

"The Beula graveyard list, is equally remarkable. Samuel Frey died April 9, 1848, aged eighty-six years; Rachel, his wife, died January 31st, 1859, aged eighty-two; Rolley Taylor died January 2d, 1847, in the eighty-third year of her age; Samuel Fairlamb died February 16th, 1853, aged seventy-six; Mary, 'his wife, died August 30th, 1853, aged seventy-five ; Jane, wife of Thomas Wickham, died March rst, 1858, aged ninety years; Thomas Wickham, died June 13th, 1851, aged eighty-two; Sarah, his wife, died April 11th, 1842, aged sixty-four ; and Daniel Crainner, died July 24th, 1867, aged eighty-seven years.

The earlier records of elections for township officers, may never be found, and having nothing to indicate who they were, we shall notindulge in conjecture.

Joseph Richey, from 1874 to 1877; James K. P. Redman, from 1874 to 1877 ; Joseph Porter from 1875 to 1878; Daniel Norman, from 1876 to 1879. f 1838, the Trustees were John Morgan, Samuel Bonnitield and John Porter ; Clerk, David McCracken; Treasurer, Samuel Colvin; Constables, Joseph W. Crown and John Colvin ; and, in 1849, Trustees same as above; Clerk, Mahilon

1856. Trustees, Henry Woolf, W. A. Morrison, J. Kreager; Clerk, John Ligget, who refused to serve, and Henry Dick was appointed ; Treasurer, S. C. Field; Assessor, B. B. Morgan; Constables, Daniel Norman, Jacob Burrier.

Treasurer; W. T. Perry: Assessor, Samuel Woolf; Constables, Amos Norman, S. C. Cunningham. September 20, 1869,Clerk R. F. Smart resigned,and Joseph Porter was appointed.