Jackson Township

O. F. Frazeysburgh Presbyterian Church

The early settlers- of this township were allured thither by the fertilit}' of the lands in the valley of Wakatomika Creek ; like those who settled nearest the valley of the Muskingum. It is true that the area of perhaps twenty-five miles, on either side of the latter stream, is included in the term, "Valley of the Muskingum ; " and yet the smaller valleys have afforded special attractions to the settler. Actuated bjr the motive to make a paradise wherever nature invited them, the settlers, therefore, selected sites as near to the streams of importance as seemed good to them. Among the pioneers in this region. Colonel William Blizzard came in 1815, and settled in the southwest portion of section twelve, where he found an Eden in a log cabin. It is needless to describe this abode, the probability is that there was no departure from the conventional character of it, and being "wind and weather tight, " it fulfilled the purpose, happiness being the outgrowth of contentment, and conjugal fidelity, and these were found whereever nature bade them welcome, as she did in those fertile valleys, and the outspreading branches of her glorious forests. W. T. Blizzard now occupies the old homestead. During this year, also, William McClintock came from Washington county, Pennsylvania, and settled on what is now known as the Zanesville road, in the .southeast corner of the corporate limits of Frazeysburgh, as known to-day. This house was occupied, in 1880, by I. C. Franks, and has undergone the modernizing of many another log house, by being weather boarded. During this year, also, came Thomas Wilkins, and built his cabin in the extreme southeast corner -of the township ; the land, in 1880, was owned by James McCann. Aloout the close of this year, in the early part of 1816, Joshua Bennett, (sonin-law of Samuel Mendenhall), came from Virginia, and settled on tlie tract that Mr. Mendenhall had occupied in 1811 ; and in 1816, he found himself on the high road to fortune, h.iving a farm of virgin soil amid an ambrosial atmosphere, to inspire him to labor. Richard Menden- hall, (father of Dr. Mendenhall, of Frazeysburgh), was one of the pioneers who left his impress on his times, and an honored name ; he occupied a small log house within a mile of the town of today, to the westward ; he died in 1871. About this time, also, Mr.Tushman, a German, a quiet plodding man, whose practical turn enabled him to live in an obscure manner, occupied a tract on the border of the township, in the northeast portion, now occupied by John Riley. Tushman's first successor was John Lobe. Joseph Chaney was another of that period, and settled about three miles north of Frazeysburgh.

Topographical

Topographical!)-, Jackson township is undulating in its surface, and occasional!}^ broken. The soil is -termed a ricli limestone, and clay on the uplands, and sandy loam in the lowerlands and bottoms. The forests of the ages past are rapidly disappearing, yet a few monarchs of their clans - the sycamore, hickory, black Walnut, wlaite oak, and poplar, remain to witness the glory of their ancestors. The township is well watered, as a glance at the map, showing numerous tributaries to Wakatomika, the principal stream, will attest. This stream winds a tortuous course from the northwest corner to near the southeast, and up towards the eastern center where it passes out of the township, affording a vast fertilizing influence, as well as drainage, and numerous mill sites.

Iron and coal, of fair quality, are found in various localities ; the latter is consumed at home, while the former is mined and hauled to Frazeysburgh, and thence shipped by rail to Zanesville.

'- A petition to the Commissioners by a number of the inhabitants, of Licking township, praying that the said township be divided agreeable to the following boundaries : Beginning at the coimty line, at the so^ithwest quarter of the third section, thence east to the township that divides the eiglith range, thence with said line north five miles to the county line, then with the county line south to the place of beginning ; ordered, that the aforesaid described boundaries be set off in a new township, and be called Jackson township and that the}' hold . their elections at the house of Thomas Blizzard, on the last Saturday in July, 1815. June 6th, 1815." - [Commissioners' Journal.]

The name was probably given on account of " the dark horse " of that period - Andrew Jackson - having many friends ill the locality at the time. Jackson, it will be remembered, was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and born on a plantation in Mecklenburgh county. North Carolina, March 15, 1767, and early left an orphan. From obscurity he made his way by the innate greatness of his soul, to Congress, as the first Representative of Tennessee, just admitted into the Union (December 5, 1796). and subsequently as Senator - and the hero of a duel - a dashing military chieftan, during the war of 1812 - then as Senator - and elected President of the United States, in 1828, and again in 1832 ; his was an inspiring name, and it is fair to presume that townships as well as children were named after him. He left an illustrious example, worthy of imitation, that coming generations will not cease to emulate, as in the past.

Samuel Mendenhall came into this township, from Virginia, in 1811, and entered one thousand three hundred acres of land. He built his cabin about one and a quarter miles wesi of the site of Frazeysburgh of to-day, and, in 1819, he built the first saw and grist mill in the township, located on Wakatomika creek, half a mile above the site occupied by Eli Gorley's sawmill in 1880. George Stamets (father of E. P. Stamets) lived in this mill, with his family, and was the miller for a number of years. Richard Griffee served as miller in this establishment, also. This mill had all the grinding to do that was done, in this and surrounding townships, for many years, and it was astonishing that two run of buhrs could do so much. The dam was washed away in 1830. At this time, John Norris was the miller.

Clark Hollenback, who laid out the town of Frazeysburgh, built a sawmill in 1820-22, on the same site occupied by Eli Gorley's in 1880, and, about two years later, William McClintock erected a sawmill, on Wakatomika creek, about where the Goff flour mill was in 1880.

About 1825, in the extreme northwest corner of the township, there was a rude saw and grist mill, that passed through many hands, and finally disappeared, in 1880. For some years prior to its destruction; a woolen mill was said to have been operated on the premises.

Distillery

It has been said, by some of the oldest inhabitants, that "a distillery could be found in nearly every run in the coimty." However true this may be, the following constitutes the account of these institutions, that has come down through "the avenues that remember the still :

In 1832, Samuel Mills built a small distillery, on the Zanesville road, three-quarters of a mile south of Frazeysburgh, and a Mr. Blood operated it for a few months. In 1843, Josiah Campbell, Alfred Ciiapman and Hazel Clarey, operated quite exten,sively in Frazeysburgh. The report still lingers in the memory of ye pioneer that the whisky from this still had much to do with swelling the Democratic majoi-ity for Polk and Dallas, in '44. It is certain that it swelled many a head.

Frazeysburgh M. E. Church. - This society was organized at the house of Zachariah Bonham, in the year 1815. Some of the members of that class were Zachariah Bonharn and wife, Richard Wood and wife, Reuben Oliver and * wife, Daniel Wilkins and wife, R. C. Mendenhall and wife, and Mrs. Jane Bennett. The only survivor of these pioneer Metliodists, .in 1880, was Mrs. R. C. Mendenhall. Their first meetings were from hoiise to house, but principally at Zachariah Bonham's, R. C. Mendenhall's, and John Wimmer's. The latter then lived on the place occupied, in 1880, by Benjamin Norris. Later, they occupied a school-house, then near the northern boundary line of Frazeysburgh.

In 1840, the organization felt strong enough to erect a church, which was a plain, but substantial building, that cost about one thousand dollars. This chuixh continued in use until 1878, when the the present neat, frame structure was erected, in the village of Frazeysburg, at a cost of one thousand eight hundred dollars. This is one of the most elegant churches in the county, outside of Zanesville. The early pastors, whose names are remembered, were Rev. Thomas Carr (one of the first to preach to this people). Rev. Shadrach Ruark, Rev. Thomas Ruckle, Rev. Samuel Hamilton, Abner Goff, Curtis Goddard, James Gilruth, Charles Thorn, Zara Coston, John C. Haven, Michael Ellis, T. A. G. Phillips, William Cunningham (cousin of the late Rev. Levi Cunningham, Presiding Elder of the Zanesville District), Rev. Laban, and Henry Fernandes. They preached between the formation of this cliurch and 1830. During these years, R. C. Mendenhall erected a large barn, and was the first to "raise" witJiout whisky, so that this barn marked an epoch in this particular. Religious services were often held there, on Sundays. In this barn. Rev. Fernandes held a series of meetings, whicli resulted in much good. During 1839-40, a great revival occurred, under the Ininisterial guidance of Reverends Lowrey, West, and Milligan, whicli is remembered as eventful and very interesting to the church. In 1878, another awakening occurrred - during the pastorate of Rev. D. S. Porter - "and many were saved." Mr. Porter was pastor one year, and came to this people just in time for the harvest.

Rev. N. W. Acton, the incumbent in 1880, was first appointed to this charge in 1879. during the first year of his pastorate, he established a small, church paper, called the "Visitor." This was - enlarged , the following 3^ear, and made more secular, though keeping at its high moral tone ; and fhus he has united the influence of the two great civi.lizers - the Press and the Pulpit.

In 1880, the Trustees were John i\. Evans, S. C. Mendenhall, M.D. ; R. P. Mendenhall, Esq. ; William A. Norris, William Hamilton, J. L. Bennett, and Joshua Bennett. The membership this year numbered one hundred and seventy.

Frazevshurgh Presbyterian Church. - This ort>-aniZation was consummated in 1876, vvith'thirtv four members. The following were the Trustees : L. B. GofF, James McCann, J. S. Trembley, I. W. Ewing, and Jahn W. Nethers-. The first pastor was S. D. Smith, and during his pastorate the society built their brick church in Frazeysburgh, at a cost of $2,370. The dedication sermon was pi-eached September 8, 1877, by Rev. J. W. Tenny, and the pastor assisted in the dedicatory service. The second regular pastor was John W. Tenny, followed by Hugh C. McBride, who preached six months. J. W. Fulton was the last pastor, serving six months, ending August, 1880. since when the society has had no pastor. The foregoing data was furnished by J. S. Trem- . bley. Postmaster at Frazeysburgh.

Mt. Zion Christian Church. - This church was organized in 1832, with eight members, among whom were George McDonald, Mrs. Ann McDonald, Matthew Emery, Mrs. Elizabeth Emery, Mrs. Mary Lovitt, and Joseph Chaney. The first meetings were held in George McDonald's house, now occupied by his son, S. McDonald, until 1845, when the society erected their present house of worship, a substantial frame structure, at a cost of about five hundred dollars, and with a seating capacity of four^ hundred ; located upon the same farm that it was organized upon, about two miles north of Frazeysburgh, on the West Carlisle road.

Elder Millison, who "only preached occasionly. Harvey Ashley officiated in 1838, and was the third regular pastor. In 1840, Rev. William Gilmore came, and served but a short time, when he was succeeded by James Marvin, who served ten years, and, in 1850, was followed b)^ Jacob Hanger, who remained ten years. The seventh regular pastos was Rev. Adolphus Bradfield, who served three years and was succeeded by Andrew Hanger, who remained until 1868, and was followed by Rev. William Overturf, who served until 1870, when Enos Peters, the present incumbent, became their pastor.

1868, twelve more were added ; in 1871, seventeen more were added ; a total from 187 1 to 1880, of forty-one have been added. The reductions by withdrawel and death have left the membership sixty-five.

The data from which this sketch is written, was gleaned from S. McDonald, whose father and mother were among the original members of the church.

Mt. Zion Sunday School was organized in 185 1 ; the first superintendent was Gibson Moore. In 1880, Jonathan McDonald was superintendent, ent.

It is probable that the society never kept any record, certainly none has been found. The following has been contributed at solicitation, by E, P. Stamets : The first pastor was Rev. Lewis Comer ; the second was Rev. James Millison, succeeded by Isaiah Jones, who was followed by James Mitchell, and he was succeeded by " Zebadiah " Brown, who served for some time, and was succeeded by David Mitchell, Edward Van Voorhis, and James Grimm, until 1878, when preaching and other services ceased, and have not been renewed. Their first services were held in private houses, and in 1880, there seemed to be a revived interest, in so much, that they built a church in Frazeysburgn, but it was not finished.

Justices Of The Peace

Tradition informs us that Nathan Baker served in this capacity as early as 1816. Township records cannot be found, and this must be accepted. 'Squire Baker lived thi-ee miles west of Frazeysburgli. Robert Selder was also a Justice, and '-Clark Hollenback, J. P.," lived out of the village (of Frazeysburgh,) "at an early day," as did also, Richard Griffee, who was the second Postmaster in Frazeysburgh.

One of the first physicians to practice in the township, was Elmas Wheaion, who resided in Irviile, Licking Township, in 1818. He was followed by Dr's. Pearce, Black, Bartley, and Philander Byam.

Attorney

The only attorney, whose name has come down to us as having located in this township, at an early day, is Mordecai Bartley, who afterwards became Governor of the State.

Among the first carpenters- in this township, were Charles Morrow, John Ruckle, (nephew of Rev. Thomas Ruckle,) and Samuel Mills. The latter built and kept the first tavern in Frazeysburgh. These men, it is thought, were here as early as 1820.

Evans' Church

The first building erected in the township for religious purposes, is said to have been a small cabin, a short distance north of school house No. three, as known to-day. This was prior to 1820. It was known as the Evans Church, from the circumstance of David Evans donating the land upon which it was built, and aiding in its construction.

One of the earliest schools, probablj' the very first one taught in the township, was a subscription school, in 1822, by James Morgan, in a log house about half a mile northeast of Frazevsburgh. Some of those who attended this temple of learning, were E. P. Stamets, W. H. Shaflfer, Hannah and Sarah Lovitt, "twin sisters. In 1831, John Barren taught in a log school house, situated on land that, in 1880, was owned by Sylvester McDonald. Samuel McGinnis taught in this school house the year following. The township was subsequently divided into districts, and numbered respectively from one to four. The village of Frazeysburgh, after it was incorporated, was known as "Frazeysburgh Union School District." The total expense for the schools of the township, for the year ending August 31st, 1875, exclusive of the Frazeysburgh school, was $905,94, of which $852,25 was paid the three teachers, and the balance was for incidentals.

The average daily attendance during this 3'ear, was : Boys, ninety ; girls, one hundred and twenty ; total, two hundred and ten. The value of school property, at this time, was $1,300, and for the year ending August 31st, 1880, the school property was valued at $1,500. The amount paid to teachers was $760, and for incidentals, $74,79. The schools were taught an average of thirty-two weeks in all the districts. The attendance was : Bovs, forty-eight ; girls, fifty-five ; total, one hundred and three.

Frazeysburgh Union School. - In 1880, this district embraced an area of 2,395 acres. The present school building, a substantial brick sti'uctui'e, was erected in 1874-5, ^7 Messrs. Grubb and Larzelere. at a cost of $4,680. It is eligibly situated, a little north of the centre of Frazeysburgh. For the school )-ear ending August 31st, 1880, the teachers were paid an aggregate of $980. The incidental expenses for the same time, amounted to $253. The number of pupils in tlie district was one hundred and fortj'-two. The value of school property was $6,000.

The first, or among the first Survevors, were John and Charles Roberts, who came in 1822. John Roberts surveyed the village of Frazeysburgh, June 6th, 1827. Charles Roberts surveyed many of the farms of the township, including land owned by Samuel McCann, in 1880. This tract was surve3'ed in 1822-3.

This village, the only one in the township, was laid out June 6th, 1827, by Clark Hollenback, and which he named Knoxville. It is located in the southeast corner of the northeast quarter of section nineteen, township No. three, range No. nine. The survey was made by John Roberts. Numerous additions have been made, so that in 1880, the corporate limits covered an area of three hundred and twelve acr6s. In 1828, Mr. Hollenback sold the tract described by the plat, to Samuel Frazey, who changed the name of the proposed town to Frazeysburgh. This was done pardy because a postoflice was desired at that point, and one by the name of Knoxville already existed, and the rule of the Postoffice Deparment required that no two postoffices should have the same name, within the same State. In 1868, the village took on municipal honors, being incorporated, and, according to the charter, the iirst election was held in April, of that j-ear, resulting in the choice of the following officers :

Mayor - L. W. Doane. He served two years, and was succeeded by W. D. Packard, who served four years, and was succeeded by David Jones, who held the office until 1877, and resigned, and the office was vacant for a short time. George W. Adams then held the reins of government, and from 1878, to 1880, I. W. Ewing was Mayor. J. C. Roach held the office from, April to July, of 1880, and August 7th, 1880, Thomas Ross, the Blacksmith, was elected for a term of two years. The other officers chosen at this election, were as follows : Marshal - Wm. Host ; Treasurer - John E. Ruckle : Councilmen - T. J. Patterson, David Wii-e, Marcus Garrett, James Garrett, Howard Norris, and Wm. McMullen. The assessed value of property, at that time, was, real estate, $52,190; personal propert}'. $43,400. It contains one Presbyterian church, one Methodist church, one graded free school, two hotels, one steam flour and planing mill, and a good supply of stores, shoemakers and blacksmiths.

Stores in 1828. - The first goods sold in this township, were by a Mr. Whitney, in a small cabin, about six rods east of the Lemert store of Frazeysburgh, in 1880. The next mercliantwas Colonel Wm. Bl-izzard, who opened his store in a brick house on his farm, about a mile west ol' Frazeysburgh, in 1828. About this time, also, Richard Griflee opened a small store in Frazeysburgh ; the locality, however, is not remembered.

The first blacksmith shop in the township was opened b}' Henry Shepherd, in 1827. It was of the conventional style, un-hewn log, located about one mile west of Frazeysburgh, oil the Newark road. This son of Vulcan did a flourishing business, principally ironing wheelbarrows that were used by men working on the canal.

The first tavern in the township was built in 1827-8, by Samuel Mills. It was a cabin, and located on a portion of the lot that, in 1880, was occupied by James W. Hamilton's store, in Frazeysburg. Mr. "Mills continued in this business quite a number of years," and was succeeded by Stephen Cessna, who was followed by Wm. English, and he gave way to Thomas Foster, who knew more about "keeping hotel," and during the years he ran the establishment, did a good business. Josiah Campbell succeeded Foster. The building has been demolished, and the traditions concerning "the landlords and their times," are notabl}' barren. The reader, however, can readily conclude that "the tavern," in this region, like others of that period, served the purpose of our modern news room, only that the news was imparted orally, and often amplified with scintillations of logic and humor by the landlord, that caused him to be looked up to bj^ the yeomanry as an oracle of wisdom, and which he studiously turned to good account financially. But these traditions are not ascribed to this tavern.

The first and only postoffice in the township, was established in Frazeysburgh, in the winter of 1828-9. Samuel Frazey was the first "P. M." He wa,s succeeded by Richard Grifl^ee, who had charge of the mail bags for many years. He was followed by John Norris, A. B. Vaughn, I. C. Franks, Richard Griflee, (second term,) J. S. Trembley, H. L. Sherman, J. S. Trembley, (second term) who is now the dignitary in charge.

Store

Samuel Frazey opened a store near the northeast corner of the present Frazeysburgh canal bridge, in 1828-9. This was the largest store 3'et opened, and was continued for a number of years.

Canal

The canal was conjpleted in 1831-2, and the " Reindeer," a small pleasure boat, passed through from Newark to Coshocton. The first regular freight boat to pass through was the "Union," of Dover.

The Earliest Records

The earliest officicd records of this township, that can be found, date Anno Domini, 1852: Lewis M. Pierson, was Township Clerk ; Samuel McCann, Justice of the Peace ; John Mercer, Albert Fleming, and Jacob Bonham, were Trustees. The officers of the township, in 1880, were :

In 187 1, the township erected in Frazeysburgh, a two story brick building, with hall, for township purposes, at a cost of $3,300; and eight hundred dollars of this sum was contributed b}' Frazeysburgh Lodge, No. 490, F. and A.M., for the benefit of a place of meeting, which thev have in the second story ; the Lodge having a ninety-nine year's lease on this portion of the building.

The townsliip embraces twelve thousand six hundred and eighty acres of land, wliich, in 1880, was assessed at $318,070; the personal propert}', at the same assessment, was valued at $139,490.

The Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and St. Louis, ("Pan. Handle"), Railroad, was completed through the township, in 1855. It enters about one-fourth of a mile east. of the southwest corner, and runs diagonall}' from the southwest to tlie northeast, through the village of Frazeysburgh, which is the only station in the township, and passes out of the boundarj- about two and a quarter iuiles north of the southeast corner. The first agent at this station was E. L. Lemert, who was suceeded by Elmas Karnes, who was followed by J. E. Bailey, in 1870, who is the present incumbent.

Fine Art

This term need not impl}^ that some gifted artist was found among the ilihabitants of this township, but next to the credit which attaches to such a circumstance, is an appreciation of fine art, which fairly argues not only uncultured genius, but a refined taste, and this is sustained by selecting and keeping, with reverential regard, a specimen that deserves this mention for the i-eason given, and as an appi^eciative acknowledgement of one of the chef (Toeuvres of a great master. This is no less than " Narcissus,'" by Paul Bril, a Flemish ai'tist, who died in 1526. Concerning thischaracter, we read inAnthon's Classical Dictionary that " Narcissus had a twin sister of remarkable beauty, to whom he was tenderly attached. She resembled him very closely in features, wore similar attire, and used to accompany him on the hunt. This sister died young, and Narcissus, deeply lamenting her. death, used to go to a neighboring fountain and gaze upon his own image in its waters, tlie strong resemblance he bore to his deceased sister making this image appear to him, as it were, the form of her whom he lost. The flower alluded to in the story of Narcissus is what botanists term the Narcissus (Linn, gen., 550). It loves the borders of streams, and is admirably personified in the touching legends of poetry, since, bending on its fragile stem, it seems to seek its own image in the waters that run murmuring by, and soon fades away and dies. And Narcissus pined away till he was changed into the flower that bears his name."

This painting was shipped to New York for exhibition at the World's Fair, but was held at the Custom House for duties, and lost track of, so it was never exhibited, and finally, not being called for, was sold at auction, and bid ofl' by the Cosmopolitan Art Association, of New York, which, under their modus operandi., sold art works, that a better taste might be inculcated throughout the country, and, in this distribution. Dr. S. C. Mendenhall became the possessor of this grand painting. If the charter of the Art Association had permitted, the society, through its President, would have purchased this of Dr. M., and would have certainly paid him $1,500 for Paul Bril's Narcissus. This is, perhaps, the onl}' specimen of the work of this great master in the United States. The painting is four feet two inches, by four feet six inches. Dr. Mendenhall has owned it since 1859, ^^^^ values it very highly.

Secret Societies

Masonic. - The only Masonic organization in the township is " Frazeysburg Lodge, No. 490," which was instituted July 21, 1874, and chartered October 21 , of the same year. The charter members were : J. G. Hagerly, David Jones, J. B. Bennett, Jasper Corn, T. J. Patterson, Albert Norris, J. B. Pierson, C. M. Bell, I. B. Bard, Isaac Pryor, Philip Nethers, and J. H. Hamilton,

The first officers were : J. G. Hagerty, W. M. : David Jones, S. W. ; J. B. Bennett, J. W. The fraternity secured a hall by joining with the township, in 1870, through their trustees, and building one story higher on the township building, at an expense to the Lodge of $800, with the understanding, at that day, that a Lodge should be formed, and that the Lodge should have a lease of the same for Masonic purposes for ninety-nine years, which lease has been executed, the Lodge being at one-third the necessary expense for repairing the roof and paying all expenses for keeping the hall in order.

The Lodge-room is well fitted up, and is kept insured. The membership, in 1880, was composed of thirty-one of the best citizens of Jackson township, and the Lodge is one among the most popular in the county.

Glendale Lodge. Xo. 649, I. O. O. /''. - This is the only Lodge of Odd Fellows in the township, and was instituted Jul}- 25, 1876, with the following chai'ter members; H. L. Sherman, C. W. Martin, C. H. Wire, Samuel Austin, L. E. Karnes, Howard Norrts, Lyman Fulk, I. C. Franks, Samuel Hunter. Hugh Brown, T. H. Noland, James Noland, J. C. Furguson, R. E. Finley, and Jas.W. Fouch. The first officers were :

The J'Ress

The first newspaper \enlure in this township was made by C. E. F. Miller, in 1875-6. He published a small sheet in Frazeysburgh, called "The Federalist." The paper w-as edited in Frazeysburgh, and the composition and press work done in Dresden. This was manifestly an effort without sufficient capital, and the enterprise was abandoned about three months after the first number appeared.

Source changes here: from History of Muskingum County, Ohio, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Prominent Men and Pioneers, by Various, published 1882; 4,492 words in this source stream.

Name Changed By Order Of P. 0. Deparment

Vhe early settlers of this township were allured thither by the fertility of the lands in the valley of Wakatomika Creek; like those who settled nearest the valley of the Muskingum. It is true that the area of perhaps twenty-five miles, on either side of the latter stream, is included in the term, '' Valley of the Muskingum;"' and yet the smaller valleys have afforded special attractions to the settler. Actuated by the motive to make a paradise wherever naturé invited them, the settlers, therefore, selected sites as near to the streams of importance as seemed good to them. Among the pioneers in this region, Colonel William Blizzard came in 1815, and settled in the southwest portion of section twelve, where he found an Eden ina log cabin. It is needless to describe this abode, the probability is that there was no departure from the conventional character. of it, and being '' wind and weather tight, "' it fulfilled the purpose, happiness being the outgrowth of contentment, and conjugal fidelity, and these were found whereever nature bade them welcome, as she did in those fertile valleys, and the outspreading branches of her glorious forests. W. T. Blizzard now occupies the old homestead. During this year, also, William McClintock came from Washington county, Pennsylvania, and settled on what is now known as the Zanesville road, in the southeast corner of the corporate limits of Frazeysburgh, as known to-day. This house was occupied. in 1880, by I. C. Franks, and has undergone the modernizing of many another log house, by being weather boarded. During this year, also, came Thomas Wilkins, and built his cabin in the extreme southeast corner of the township; the land, in 1880, was owned by James McCann. About the close of this year, in the early part of 1816, Joshua Bennett, (sonin-law of Samuel Mendenhall), came from Virginia, and settled on the tract that Mr. Mendenhall had occupied in 1811; andin 1816, he found himself on the high road to fortune, having a farm of virgin soil amid an ambrosial atmosphere, toinspire him tolabor. Richard Menden- hall,(father of Dr. Mendenhall, of Frazeysburgh), was one of the pioneers who left his impress on his times, and an honored name; he occupied a small log house within a mile of the town of today, to the westward; he died in 1871. About this time, also, Mr. Tushman, a Geant. a quiet plodding man, whose practical turn enabled him to live in an obscure manner, occupied a tract on the border of the township, in the northeast portion, now occupied by John Riley. Tushman's first successor was John Lobe. Joseph Chaney was another of that period, and settled about three miles north of Frazeysburgh.

Topographical

Topographically, Jackson township is undulating in its surface, and occasionally broken. The soil is termed a rich limestone, and clay on the uplands, and sandy loam in the lowerlands and bottoms. The forests of the ages past are 'rapidly disappearing, yet a few monarchs of their clans - the sycamore, hickory, black walnut, white oak, and poplar, remain to witness the glory of their ancestors. The township is well watered, as a glance at the map, showing numerous tributaries to Wakatomika, the principal stream, will attest. This stream winds a tortuous course from the northwest corner to near the southeast, and up towards the eastern center where it passes out of the township, affording a vast fertilizing influence, as well as drainage, and numerous mill sites.

Iron and coal, of fair quality, are found in various localities ; the latter is consumed at home, while the former is mined and hauled to Frazeysburgh, and thence shipped by rail to Zanesville.

able to the following boundaries : Beginning at the county line, at the southwest quarter of the third section, thence east to the township that divides the eighth range, thence with said line north five miles to the county line, then with the county line south to the place of beginning ; ordered, that the aforesaid described boundaries be set off in a new township, and be called Jackson township and that they hold their elections at the house of Thomas Blizzard, on the last Saturday in July, 1815. June 6th, 1815."' - [{Commissioners' Journal. |

The name was probably given on account of ** the dark horse" of that period - Andrew Jackson time. Jackson, it will be remembered, was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and born on a plantation in Mecklenburgh county , North Carolina, March 15,1767, and early leftan orphan. From obscurity he made his way by the innate greatness of his soul, to Congress. as the first Representative ot Tennessee, just admitted into the Union (December 5, 1796). and subsequently as Senator - and the hero ot a duel - a dashing military chieftan, during the w then as Senator - and elected President of the United States, in 1828, and again in 1832; his was an inspiring name, and it is fair to presume that townships as well as children were named after him. He left an illustrious example, worthy of imitation, that coming generations will not cease to emulate, as in the past.

Samuel Mendenhall came into this township, from Virginia, in 1811, and entered one thousand three hundred acres of land. He built his cabin about one and a quarter miles west of the site of Frazeysburgh of to-day, and, in 1819, he built the first saw and grist mill in the township, located on Wakatomika creek, half a mile above the site occupied by Eli Gorley's sawmill in 1880. George Stamets (father of E. P. Stamets) lived in this mill, with his family, and was the miller fora number of years. Richard Griffee served as miller in this establishment, also. This mill had all the grinding to do that was done, in this and surroundiug townships, for many years, and it was astonishing that two run of buhrs could do so much. The dam was washed away in 1830. At this time, John Norris was the miller.

Clark Hollenback, who laid out the town of Frazeysburgh, built a sawmill in 1820-22, on the same site occupied by Eli Gorley's in 1880, and, about two years later, William McClintock erected a sawmill, on Wakatomika creek, about where the Goff flour mill was in 1880.

About 1825, in the extreme northwest corner of the township, there was a rude saw and grist mill, that passed through many hands, and finally disappeared, in 1880. For some years prior to its destruction, a woolen mill was said to have been operated on the premises.

Distillery

It has been said, by some of the oldest inhabitants, that 'ta distillery could be found in nearly every run in the county.'' However true this may be, the following constitutes the account of these institutions, that has come down through 'the avenues that remember the still:

In 1832, Samuel Mills built a small distillery, on the Zanesville road, three-quarters of a mile south of Frazeysburgh, and a Mr. Blood operated it for a few months. In 1843, Josiah Caipbell, Alfred Chapman and Hazel Clarey, operated quite extensively in Frazeysburgh. The report still lingers in the memory of ye pioneer that

Frazeysburgh M. E. Church. - This society was organized at the house of Zachariah Bonham, in the year 1815. Some of the members of that class were Zachariah Bonham and wife, Richard Wood and wife, Reuben Oliver and wife, Daniel Wilkins and wife, R. C. Mendenhall and wife. and Mrs. Jane Bennett. The only survivor of these pioneer Methodists, in 1880, was Mrs. R. C. Mendenhall. Their first meetings were from house to house, but principally at Zachariah Bonham's, R. C. Mendenhall's, and John Wimmer's. The latter then lived on the place occupied, in 1880, by Benjamin Norris. Later, they occupied a school-house, then near the northern boundary line of Frazeysburgh.

In 1840. the organization felt strong enough to erect a church, which was a plain, but substantial building, that cost about one thousand Ccollars. This church continued in use until 1878, when the the present neat, frame structure was erected, in the village of Frazeysburg, at a cost of one thousand eight hundred dollars. This is one of the most elegant churches in the county, outside of Zanesville. The early pastors, whose names are remembered, were Rev. Thomas Carr (one of the first to preach-to this people), Rev. Shadrach Ruark, Rev. Thomas Ruckle, Rev. Samuel Hamilton. Abner Goff, Curtis Goddard, James Gilruth. Charles Thorn, Zara Coston, John C. Haven, Michael Ellis, T. A. G. Phillips, William Cunningham (cousin of the late Rev. Levi Cunningham, Presiding Elder of the Zanesville District), Rev. Laban, and Henry Fernandes. They preached between the formation of this church and 1830. During these years, R. C. Mendenhall erected a large barn, and was the first to *'raise'' without whisky, so that this barn marked an epoch in this particular. Religious services were often held there, on Sundays. Inthis barn, Rev. Fernandes held a series of meetings, which resulted in much good. During 1839-40, a great revival occurred, under the ministerial guidance of Reyerends Lowrey, West, and Milligan. which is remembered as eventful and very interesting to the church. In 1878, another awakening occurrred - during the pastorate of Rev. D. 5. Porter - ''and many were saved." Mr. Porter was pastor one year, and came to this people just in time for the harvest.

Rev. N. W. Acton, the incumbent in 1880, was first appointed to this charge in 1879. )uring the first year of his pastorate, he established a small, church paper, called the 'Visitor."" This was enlarged, the following year, and made more secular, though keeping at its high moral tone: and thus he has united the influence of the two great civilizers - the Press and the Pulpit.

In 1880. the Trustees were John A, Evans, S. C. Mendenhall, M.D. ; R. P. Mendenhall, Esq. ; William A. Norris, William Hamilton, J, L. Bennett. and Joshua Bennett. The membership this year numbered one hundred and seventy.

hrrazeysburyh Presbyterian Church.- - Vwhis organization was consummated in 1876, with thirty four members. Tne following were the Trustees: L. B. Goff, James McCann, J. 5. Trembley. J. W. Ewing, and John W. Nethers.

first pastor was S. D. Smith, and during his pastorate the society built their brick church in Frazeysburgh, at a cost of $2,370. The dedication sermon was preached September 8, 1877, by Rev. J. W. Tenny, and the pastor assisted in the dedicatory service. The second regular pastor was John W. Tenny, followed by Hugh C. McBride, who preached six months. J. W. Fulton was the last pastor, serving six months, ending August, 1880. since when the society has had no pastor. The foregoing data was furnished by J. S. Trembley, Postmaster at Frazeysburgh.

Mt. Zion Christian Church. - This church was organized in 1832, with eight members, among whom were George McDonald, Mrs. Ann McDonald, Matthew Emery, Mrs. Elizabeth Emery, Mrs. Mary Lovitt, and Joseph Chaney. The first meetings were held in George McDonald's house, now occupied by his son, S. McDonald, until 1845, when the society erected their present house of worship, a substantial frame structure, at a costof about five hundred dollars, and with a seating capacity of four hundred; located upon the same farm that it was organized upon, about two miles north of Frazeysburgh, on the West Carlisle road.

The first pastor was Rev. Barzillai H. Wiles; in 1833, Edward Lewis was pastor, followed by Elder Millison, who only preached occasionly. Harvey Ashley officiated in 1838, and was the third regular pastor. In 1840, Rev. William Gilmore came, and served but a short time, when he was succeeded by James Marvin, who served ten years, and, in 1850, was followed by Jacob Hanger, who remained ten years. The seventh regular pastor was Rev. Adolphus Bradfield, who served three years and was succeeded by Andrew Hanger, who remained until 1868, and was followed by Rev. William Overturf, who served until 1870, when Enos Peters, the present incumbent, became their pastor.

In 1865, the membership was forty-six; in 1867, elven persons united with the church; in 1868, twelve more were added; in 1871, seventeen more were added; a total from 1871 to 1880, of forty-one have been added. The reductions by withdrawel and death have left the membership sixty-five.

The data from which this sketch is written, was gleaned from S. McDonald, whose father and mother were among the original members of the church,

Mt, Zion Sunday School was organized in 1851 ; the first superintendent was Gibson Moore. In 1880, Jonathan McDonald was superintendent. ent.

- It is probable that the society never kept anyrecord, certainly none has been found. The following has been contributed at solicitation, by E. P. Stamets: The first pastor was Rev. Lewis Comer; the second was Rev. James Millison, succeeded by Isaiah Jones, who was followed by James Mitchell, and he was succeeded by '' Ze-

Justices Of The Peace

'badiah " Brown, who served for some time, andwas succéeded by David Mitchell, Edward Van Voorhis, and James Grimm, until 1878, when preaching and-other services ceased, and have not been renewed. Their first services were held in private houses, and in 1880, there seemed to bea revived interest, in so much, that they built a church in Frazeysburgh, but it was not finished. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.

Tradition informs us that Nathan Baker served in this capacity as early as 1816. 'Township records cannot be found, and this must be accepted. 'Squire Baker lived three miles west of Frazeysburgh. Robert Selder was also a Justice, and 'Clark Hollenback, J. P.," lived out of the village (of Frazeysburgh,) ''at an early day," as did also, Richard Griffee, who was the second Postmaster in Frazeysburgh.

One of the first physicians to practice in the township, was Elmas Wheaton, who resided in Irville, Licking Township, in 1818. He was followed by Dr's. Pearce, Black, Bartley, and Philander Byam.

Attorney

The only attorney, whose name has come down to us as having located in this township, at an early day, is Mordecai Bartley, who afterwards became Governor of the State.

Among the first. carpenters in this township, were Charles Morrow, John Ruckle, (nephew of Rev. Thomas Ruckle,) and Samuel Mills. The latter built and kept the first tavern in Frazeysburgh. These men. it is thought, were here as early as 1820.

Evans Church

religious purposes, is said to have beena small cabin, a short distance north of school house No. three, as known to-day. This was prior to 1820. It was known asthe see Church, from the circumstance of David Evans donating the land upon which it was built, and aiding in its construction. SCHOOLS.

One of the earliest schools, probably the very first one taught in the township, was a subscription school, in 1822, by James Morgan, ina log house about half a mile northeast of Frazeys-

Hannah and Sarah Lovitt, twin sisters. In 1831, John Barren taught in a log school house, situated on land that, in 1880, was owned by Sylvester McDonald. Samuel McGinnis taught in this school house the vear following. The township was subsequently divided into districts, and numbered respectively from one to four. The village of Frazeysburgh, after it was incorporated, was known as ''Frazeysburgh Union School District." The total expense for the schools of the township, for the year eriding August 31st, 1875, exclusive of the Frazeysburgh school, was $905,94, of which $852,25 was paid the three teachers, and the balance was for incidentals.

daily attendance during this Boys, ninety; girls, one hundred \ The value of school property, at this time, was $1,300, and for the year ending August 31st, 1880, the school property was valued at $1,500. The amount paid to teachers was $760, and for incidentals, $74,79. The schools were taught an average of thirty-two weeks in all the districts. The attendance was: Boys, forty-eight; girls, fifty-five ; total, one hundred and three. frazeysburgh Union School. - \n 1880, this district embraced an area of 2,395 acres. The present school building, a substantial brick structure, was erected in 1874-5, by Messrs. Grubb and Larzelere. at a cost of $4,680. It is eligibly situated, a little north of the centre of Frazeysburgh. For 'the school year ending August 31st, 1880, the teachers were paid an aggregate of $980. The incidental expenses for the same time, amounted to $253. The number of pupils in the district was one: hundred and forty-two. The value of school property was $6,000.

The first, or among the first Surveyors, were John and Charles Roberts, who came in 1822. John Roberts surveyed the village of Frazeysburgh, June 6th, 1827. Charles Roberts surveyed many of the farms of the township, including land owned by Samuel McCann, in 1880. This tract was surveyed in 1822-3.

This village, the only one in the township, was laid out June 6th, 1827, by Clark Hollenback, and which he named Knoxville. It is located in the southeast corner of the northeast quarter of section nineteen, township No. three, range No. nine. 'The survey was made by John Roberts. Numerous additions have been made, so that in 1880, the corporate limits covered an. area.of three hundred and twelve acres. In 1828, Mr. Hollenback sold the tract described by the plat, to Samuel Frazey, who changed the name of. the proposed town to Frazeysburgh. This was done partly because a postoffice was desired at that point, and one by the name of Knoxville already existed, and the rule of the Postoffice Deparment required that no two postoffices should have the same name, within the same State. In 1868, the village took on municipal honors, being incorporated, and, according to the charter, the first election was held in April, of that year, resulting in the choice of the following officers :

Mayor - L. W. Doane. He served two years, and was succeeded by W. D. Packard, who served four years, and was succeeded by David Jones, who 'held the office. until 1877, and resigned, and the office was vacant for a_ short time. George W. Adams then held the reins of government, and from 1878, to 1880, I. W. Ewing was Mayor. from April to July, of 1880, and August 7th, 1880, Thomas Ross, the Blacksmith, was elected fora term of two years. The other officers chosen at this election, were as follows: Marshal - Wm. Host; Treasurer - John.E. Ruckle; Councilmen - T. J. Patterson, David + Wire, Marcus Garrett, James Garrett, Howard Norris, and Wm. McMullen. The assessed value of property, at that time, was, real estate, $52.190; personal property. $43.400. Ht contains one Presbyterian church, one Methodist church, one graded free school, two hotels, one steam flour and planing mill, and a good supply of stores, shoemakers and blacksmiths.

Stores in 1828. - The first goods sold in this township, were by a Mr. Whitney, in a small cabin, about six rods east of the Lemert store of Frazeysburgh, in 1880. The next merchant was Colonel Wm. Blizzard, who opened his store in a brick house on his farm, about a mile west of Frazeysburgh, in 1828. About this time, also, Richard Griffee opened a small store in Frazeysburgh ; the locality, however, is not remembered.

The first blacksmith shop in the township was opened by Henry Shepherd, in 1827. It was of the conventional style, un-hewn log, located about one mile west of Frazeysburgh, on the Newark road. This sonof Vulcan did a flourishing business, principally ironing wheelbarrows that were used by men working on the canal.

The first tavern in the township was built in 1827-8, by Samuel Mills. It was a cabin, and located on a portion of the lot that, in 1880, was occupied by. James W. Hamilton's store, in Frazeysburg. Mr. *+Mills continued in this business quite a number of years," and was_ succeeded by Stephen Cessna, who was followed by Wm. English, and he gave way to Thomas Foster, who knew more about '*keeping hotel,"' and during the years he ran the establishment, did a good business. Josiah Campbell succeeded Foster. The building has been demolished, and the tr aditions concerning ''the landlords and their times,"' are notably barren. reader, however, can readily conclude that *'the tavern," in this region, like others of that period, served the purpose of our modern news room, often amplified with scintillations of logic and humor by the landlord, that caused him to be looked up to by. the yeomanry as an oracle of wisdom, and which he studiously turned to good account financially. But these traditions are not ascribed to this tavern.

The first and only postoffice in the township, was established in Frazeysburgh, in the winter of 1828-9. Samuel Frazey was the first ''P. M."' He was succeeded by Richard Griffee, who had charge of the mail bags for many years. He was followed by John Norris, A. B. Vaughn, I. C. Franks, Richard Griffee, (second term,) J. S. Trembley, H. L. Sherman, J.S. Trembley, (second term) who is now the dignitary in charge.

Store

Samuel Frazey opened a store near the northeast corner of the present-Frazeysburgh canal bridge, in 1828-9. This was the largest store yet opened, and was continued for a number of years.

Canal

The canal was completed in 1831-2, and the '¢ Reindeer," a small pleasure boat, passed through from Newark to Coshocton. | The first regular freight boat to pass through was the '*Union,"' of Dover.

The Earliest Records

The earliest othicial records of this township, that can be found, date Anno Domini, 1852: Lewis M. Pierson, was Township Clerk ; Samuel McCann, Justice of the Peace ; John Mercer, Albert Fleming, and Jacob Bonham, were Trustees. The officers of the township, in 1880, were :

In 1871, the township erected in Frazeysburgh, a two story brick building, with hall, for township purposes, at a cost of $3,300; and eight hundred dollars of this sum was contributed by Frazeysburgh Lodge, No. 490, F. and A.M., for the benefit of a place of meeting, which they have in the second story; the Lodge having a ninety-nine year's lease on this portion of the building.

The township embraces twelve thousand six hundred and eighty acres of land, which, in 1880, was assessed at $318,070; the personal property, at the same assessment, was valued at $139,490.

aud St. Louis, Railroad, was completed through the township, in 1855. It enters about one-fourth of a mile east of the southwest corner, and runs diagonally trom the southwest to the northeast, through the village of Frazeysburgh, which is the only station in the township, and passes out of the boundary about two and a quarter miles north of the southeast corner. The first agent at this station was E. L. Lemert, who was suceeded by Elmas Karnes, who was followed by J. E. Bailey, in 1870, who is the present incumbent.

Fine Art

ship, but next to the credit which attaches to such a circumstance, is an appreciation of fine art, which fairly argues not only uncultured genius, but a refined taste, and this is sustained by selecting and keeping, with reverential regard, a specimen that deserves this mention for the reason given, and as an appreciative acknowledgement of one of the chef d'wuvres of a great master. This is noless than '* Narcissus," by Paul Bril, a Flemish artist, who died in 1526.- Concerning this character, we read in Anthon's Classical Dictionary that ** Narcissus had a twin sister of remarkable beauty, to whom he was tenderly attached. She resembled him very closely in

'features, wore similar attire, and used to accompany him on the hunt. This sister died young, and Narcissus, deeply lamenting her death, used to go toa neighboring fountain and gaze upon his own image in its waters, the strong resemblance he bore to his deceased sister making this image appear to him, as it were, the form of her whom he lost. The flower alluded to in the story of Narcissus is what botanists term the /Varczssus poeticus, (Linn, gen., 550). It loves the borders of streams, and is admirably personified in the touching legends of poetry, since, bending on its fragile stem, it seems to seek its own image in the waters that run murmuring by, and soon fades away and dies. \ he was changed into the flower that bears his name."

This painting was shipped to New York tor exhibition at the World's Fair, but was held at the Custom House for duties, and lost track of, so it was never exhibited, and finally, not being called for, was sold at auction, and bid off by the Cosmopolitan Art Association, of New York, which, under their sods operandz, sold art works, that a better taste might be inculcated throughout the country, and, in this distribution, Dr. S. C. Mendenhall became the possessor of this grand painting. If the charter of the Art Association had permitted, the society, through its President, would have purchased this of Dr. M., and would have certainly paid him $1,500 for Paul Bril's Narcissus. This is, perhaps, the only specimen of the work of this great master in the United States. The painting is four feet two inches, by four feet six inches. Dr. Mendenhall has owned it since 1859, and values it very highly.

Secret Societies

Masonic. - The only Masonic organization iti the township is '' Frazeysburg Lodge, No. 490,"' which was instituted July 21, 1874, and chartered October 21, of the same year. The charter members were: J.G. Hagerty, David Jones, J. B. Ben-

The first officers were: J.G. Hagerty, W.M.; David Jones, S. W.; J. B. Bennett, J. W. The fraternity secured a hall by joining with the township, in 1870, through their trustees, and building one story higher on the township building, at an expense to the Lodge of $800, with the understanding, at that day, that a Lodge should be formed, and that the Lodge should have a lease of the same for Masonic purposes for ninety-nine years, which lease has been executed, the Lodge being at one-third the necessary expense for repairing the roof and paying all expenses for keeping the hall in order.

The Lodge-room is well fitted up, and is kept insured. The membership. in 1880, was composed of thirty-one of the best citizens of Jackson township, and the Lodge is one among the most popular in the county.

Glendale Lodge, No. 649, /. O. O. F. - Vhis is the only Lodge of Odd Fellows in the township, and was instituted July 25, 1876, with the following charter members; HH. L. Sherman, C. W. Martin, C. H. Wire, Samuel Austin, L. E. Karnes, Howard Norris, Lyman Fulk, I. C. Franks, Samuel Hunter, Hugh Brown, T. H. Noland, James Noland, J.C. Furguson, R. E. Finley, and Jas.W. Fouch. The tirst officers were:

The Press

The first newspaper venture in this township was made by C. E. F. Miller, in 1875-6. He published a small sheet in Frazeysburgh, called '*The Federalist." The paper was edited in Frazeysburgh, and the composition and press work done in Dresden. This was manifestly an effort without sufficient capital, and the enterprise was abandoned about three months atter the first number appeared.