Lorain City (part 34 of 77)

The first company formed is known as company © of the Seventh regiment Ohio volunteer infantry, of which Professor G. W. Shurtleff, then a tutor in the college, was captain. The first enlistment was for three months ; but a month later most of the company re-enlisted for three years. At Oross Lanes they were overpowered by a superior force, two of their number were killed, and twenty-nine, including Captain Shurtleff, were made prisouers, Notwith- standing this serious blow, this company afterward took an active part in many battles, in which its members were distinguished for their bravery. They were also distinguished for their moral and religious character. Out of the one hundred and fifty students who were at different times members of this company, but three died of disease; and of these, two died of infection caught in the filthy dungeons of New Orleans. 'T'wenty-eight fell in battle, fifteen were discharged on account of wounds, and many others were wounded slightly. Fifteen were promoted as commissioned officers in other regiments. Its captain, after a year spent in southern prisons, was made inspector general on the staff of General Wilcox ; then was appointed lieutenant-colonel, and afterwards colonel of the Fifth United States colored troops,

The second year of the war another company, composed of citizens and students, was sent out and joined the one hundred and third regiment. The same year, when Cincinnati was threatened, almost all the college students capable of bearing arms, with many of the preparatory students and citizens, started on a few hours' notice and spent several weeks there till the danger was past.

Toward the close of the war a second company, K, was sent out, which joined with Cleveland to form the one hundred and fiftieth regiment, and helped Grant fight his way to Richmond.

"Taking the catalogue of 1861, the first year of the war," says Professor Ellis, from whose address entitled '' Oberlin in the War," we take most of these facts and statistics, ''we find that of one hundred and sixty-six gentlemen in the four college classes, one hundred, or sixty per cent., have been in the army as soldiers. We doubt if any college catalogue can show a better record than this. Of alumni and the under-graduates in the college classes, we count one hundred and ninety-seven who have served in the army. Among these, two major generals, one brigadier general, ten colonels, and officers of lower grades in larger proportion. Of those who have been connected with the preparatory department, our estimate can only approximate the exact figures. Supposing that those of whom we do not know positively have gone in the same proportion as those of whom we do know, we have not less than five hundred and fifty from this department, giving a total of eight hundred and fifty of the representatives of Oberlin in the army. The great majority of these enlisted without a selfish consideration. Even those who were far advanced in their course, and many of whoin had been leading men as teachers or preachers, entered the ranks side by side with the ignorant and uncultivated sons of toil. If the list of officers should be found disproportionately small, as I do not think it is, it would be accounted for by this fact."

Of those who went into the army Professor Ellis estimated that not less than ten per cent., or from seventy-five to one hnndred men, were among the slain. The number of students was of course much reduced during the war, especially the young men.

The year that the war broke out the number given in the catalogue is one thousand, three hundred and eleven; the next year it was reduced to one thousand and seyenty-one, and the next to eight hundred and fifty-nine; the next year it is nine hundred and seventeen, and the next, nine hundred and one - an average decrease of about one-third.

there was felt to be a pressing need. The first pledge was two dollars for a corner stone; and after that, pledges were given for from one dollar to two hundred, till the whole sum amounted to three thousand, one hundred and thirty-six dollars. Its foundations were laid the next spring, at the breaking out of the war, on ground which had long been reserved for it. Further work was suspended on it for two years. The walls were erected and the roof put on in 1863, and it was not completed till 1865. The cost of building and furnishing was about forty thousand dollars.

In 1865, President Finney, seeking relief in his declining years, from the cares and responsibilities of the presidency of the institution, resigned his position, and Professor James H. Fairchild was appointed his successor, and delivered his inaugural address at the commencement, August 22, 1866. President Fairchild was one of the four who formed the first college class, and participated in the exercises of the first commencement. After the completion of his seven years' course in college and in theology, he was appointed, in 1841, professor of languages. This position he occupied till 1847, when he was transferred to the professorship of mathematics and natural philosophy; which he filled till 1859, when he became associate professor of theology and moral philosophy.

He had thus, as student and professor, Leen fully identified with Oberlin from its beginning; had imbibed its idea, breathed its spirit, and entered into its life. A clear and independent thinker, wise in counsel, sagacious and prudent in the management of affairs, conscientiously careful and faithful in the performance of duty, unostentatious and unobtrusive in manner, with high aim and steadfast purpose, a man of culture and refinement, of gentleness and of force, of benevolence and dignity, - and inspiring universal respect, confidence, and love, - the college, under his management and guidance, with an efficient corps of professors, of like mind, as counsellors and helpers, was to have a steady and symmetrical growth in the perfecting of its various departments, and was to receive a warmer and more general acknowledgment of its character and work.

During the first few years after its establishment the theological department was large and flourishing. In its first year, 1835, it numbered thirty-five; the next year it had increased to thirty-eight. In 1838 it numbered forty-four, and the next year it had increased to sixty-four. This was the maximum of attendance, and after this it gradually declined, until, in 1846, it numbered but twenty-five. In 1859, the number had increased to thirty-six, and the next year it was thirty-five. But during the war the number was diminished, until, in 1864 and '65, the number was but thirteen, the next year but fifteen, and the next but eleven. This was the minimum; and at this time the question was seriously raised whether this department could be maintained. But it was concluded that it was a necessity, not only for Oberlin, but especially for the furnishing of ministers to Congregational churches in Ohio and Michigan, and even in States farther west; and it was resolved to make a determined effort to revive it, and to put it in every respect on a more substantial basis. In 1869, Rev. Hiram Mead, a graduate of Andover, was appointed professor of sacred rhetoric, and proved a valuable accession, not less by his devotion to the several interests of the department, than by that to the duties of his own professorship. A new building was needed, and this need it was resolved to proceed at once to supply.

In November, 1871, the first general council of the Congregational churches of the United States met at Oberlin, and during their session gave their voluntary and hearty endorsement to the seminary; and the corner stone of the new building, which was properly called ''Council Hall," was at that timelaid. A large meeting was held at the First Church, at which several addresses were made. In conclusion, Rey. Dr. Buddington, chairman of the council, made a few remarks, in the course of which he said:

"T rejoice to stand, this day, upon the grave of buried prejudice, It is true that Oberlin has been a battle-cry in our ranks for a generation. It is so no longer, but a name of peace, of inspiration, and hope."

Money was given by friends of the college in New- England, and by the churches in Ohio, by which the building was carried forward to completion; and at the commencement, August 1, 1874, it was formally dedicated. The influence of these efforts in reviving the seminary is apparent in the increase of numbers. In 1871, the number had increased to thirty-six, the next year to thirty-eight, the next to forty-three, and in 1876 to fifty-one.

No history of Oberlin would be complete without some notice of its music; to which, especially sacred music, much attention has been given from the first, and which has grown with its growth. In 1835, Rev. Elisha P. Ingersoll was appointed professor of sacred music in the college. He resigned and left town the next year, and, in 1838, George N. Allen was appointed to the same position, which, with the exception of two years, he held till 1864. Professor Allen was also chorister of the church choir from 1836 till 1859, with the exception of two years. He entered with enthusiasm into the work of training the choir, and organized an orchestral accompaniment.

The first concert of note'was given at the commencement in 1852, at which the '"'Oratorio of Absalom" was performed. In 1856, the first organ was procured, the expense of which the choir helped much towards defraying with money earned by their concerts. In this way they also paid for the gas fixtures in the First Church, and furnished the bell of the chapel.

On the division of the church in 1860, and the formation of the Second Church, a new association was formed, called '"The Musical Union," composed of members from both choirs. The musical union paid most of the cost of the cabinet organ used for a time by the Second Church; has given toward the

In 1867, the '"' Oberlin Conservatory of Music" was brought into connection with the college, and George W. Steele was appointed professor of music, but was granted leave of absence to pursue his studies in Germany, whence he returned at the close of the fall term of the next year. In 1871, Fenelon B. Rice, a graduate of the Leipsic Conservatory of Music, was appointed professor of music, and was made director of the conservatory of music, under whose efficient management this department of the college has attained high rank among the musical schools of the country.

Public Schools

A primary department was at first organized in connection with the college, but was kept up only one year. The first public school was taught in one room of a house belonging to Deacon T. P. Turner, by Miss Anna Moore ; afterward it was taught in a shop on the corner of Main and East College streets.

The first school house was built in 1838, on the corner of Main and Lorain streets, not far from where the first church now stands. It was a small frame building, containing but one room, and this furnished at first with only rough boards for seats. Afterward rough tables were placed around next to the wall, with chairs before them. This was the only school house till 1851, and as the number of scholars doubled and trebled during that time, it was necessary to seek rooms wherever they could be found. Many

In 1851-52 a new brick building was erected on Professor street, opposite the college square, now owned by the college and known as '' Cabinet hall." rooms and one recitation room. The building was, however, not yet ample enough to accommodate all the pupils, and afterward two wings were added, '80 that the whole building then contained seven school rooms. On entering the new building the' schools were for the first time graded.

In 1854 the schools were re-organized, and Joseph H. Barnum was elected superintendent. Mr. Barnum was an active and efficient teacher, and remained in the school three years, when he left to take charge of the Elyria schools.

The last two terms of the year following Mr. Barnum's departure, Deacon W. W. Wright had the general superintendence of the schools, and after this, for two years, they were without a superintendent.

In 1860, the Union school was first organized, under the law of 1849. The school board appointed Samuel Sedgwick, a graduate of Oberlin college, superintendent, at a salary of six hundred dollars,

Mrs. Relief B. Hart Sylvester

Among the early settlers and good, practical farmers of Carlisle township who have passed away, none left a fairer record for personal integrity and high moral worth than he whose life and character forms the basis of these lines. Reared amid the Green Mountains of Vermont, and at an early period of his existence being inculcated with the importance of industry and self-reliance, he was admirably qualified for the life of a pioneer in the western country where forty-five years ago he effected a permanent settlement.

Sylvester Hart was born at Weston, Vt., on the 27th of March, 1806. His father, George Hart, was a native of Massachusetts; his mother, Polly Lawrence, a Vermonter. In the days of his youth, educational advantages were quite limited, and what little of scholastic learning he obtained was in the common schools of the place of his birth. By subsequent self-study, and the application of knowledge gained by experience, he became a well-read man, and possessed an intelligence above the average farmer. It was in the year 1834, when, imbued with a spirit of adventure, coupled with the desire to make a home for himself and family, he came to Lorain Co., Ohio, and settled in Carlisle township, upon the farm now occupied by his son, Henry H. Some years prior to his removal from Vermont, however, he had become pretty pursuits. At the age of seventeen years he bought his " time'' of his father, and subsequently purchased a small farm, which he sold preparatory to his departure to Ohio. All went well with him in his western home until 1840, when his residence and barn were totally destroyed by fire, a calamity under which a man of less indomitable energy and perseverance would have succumbed. Nothing daunted by this untoward event, he rebuilt on another part of his farm the house in which Henry H. Hart now resides. In December, 1856, Mr. Hart removed to the village of Oberlin, intending to retire from the active, incessant labor of the farm. Here he resided a respected and honorable citizen until his death, which occurred Sept. 26, 1874.

On the 25th of January, 1829, Mr. Hart was united in marriage with Relief Baldwin, who was born at Pawlet, Vt., Aug. 81, 1806. She survives him. -They had issue as follows, namely :

Miss Ke. C. Hart

In politics Mr. Hart was formerly a Whig, and after the organization of the Republican party affiliated with the latter. He was township trustee of Carlisle many years, and was elected to various other offices in that township. He was not a professor of religion, but the honesty of his life compared favorably with many of the most ardent church members. After a careful investigation of spiritualism, he became convinced of its genuineness, and espoused its teachings with a faith that lasted until hisdeath. He became one of the largest landholders in the county, and was also extensively engaged in dairying. Those of his acquaintances and friends by whom he was best known, generally bear testimony to his uncompromising, personal integrity, his business rectitude, and the placidity of his domestic life. It was in the home circle where the serenity of his disposition was so highly appreciated. His benevolence was proverbial. Taken all in all, the career of Mr. Hart offers many excellent traits which afford alike a good example for future generations to follow, and an imperishable legacy to his estimable family.

Sylvester Part

which, during the last two years of his term of service, was increased to a thousand dollars. A high school was organized, and all the lower schools were improved. The high school increased to forty, and the whole number enrolled in all the schools, was as high as four hundred and fifty.

In the fall of 1869, Mr. Sedgwick resigned, and Mr. E. F. Moulton, a graduate of Oberlin college, was appointed his successor, - at a salary of fifteen hundred dollars, which was afterward raised to seventeen hundred. Several additions were made to the course of study in the high school; and the number of pupils attending the high school, during Mr. Moulton's term of service, was more than doubled. Since the inauguration of the new system in 1860, the number enrolled in all the schools was also doubled.

- and it was completed and dedicated in 1874. It is situated on South Main street, in a central location, and contains eleven school rooms, a supérintendent's room, two smaller recitation rooms, and a library room. Its cost was about forty thousand dollars, and it is one of the handsomest buildings of the town.

In 1876, Mr. Moulton resigned, and accepted a position as superintendent of the Union school, in Warren, Ohio. Mr. Chittenden was appointed in his place, and has proved an efficient superintendent, but has recently been compelled to resign, on account of ill health, and Mr. H. F. Clark has been chosen his successor,

The Churches

A brief notice of the organization of the First Church, and of the erection of the church edifice, has been already given, and we have space here for little more. Mr. Finney was called to take charge of the church in May, 1837, and continued its pastor till May, 1872, a period of thirty-five years. The greater part of this time, Professor Morgan was also associated with him, and preached during Mr. Finney's absence. Other members of the faculty also supplied the pulpit at different times. November 13, 1873, Rev. James Brand, a graduate of Yale College and of Andover Seminary, was installed as pastor of the church, and has since labored with much acceptance and with gratifying results.

Of the growth of the church, Mr. Brand, about a year since, said: '' Beginning with sixty-two commu nicants in the solitude of the forest, it has had, in the space of forty-two years, about four thousand six hundred and sixty - an average addition of a little more than one hundred and ten a year during its entire history." It should, however, be remembered that from the changing character of the population, and from the fact that many of the students became connected with the church, the dismissions were as continual, if not so large, as the additions.

For many years the First Church was the only church in the place, and it came to be the general and cherished desire that there should be no other.

This feeling arose, not from any exclusiveness, but from a desire of concentration and unity, rather than division of christian effort. The confession of faith embraced only those vital points which are accepted by all evangelical christians; and it was common for members of other denominations to join the church without change of views. But in the growth of the place, it was inevitable that other churches should be formed.

The second church organized was the Protestant Episcopal. Missionary services were begun by Rey. Anson Clark, in the year 1852, and were held regularly thereafter once a month, or once in two weeks, in Mr. Safford's house. The organization of the parish was effected April 18, 1855, by Rev. Francis Granger, with seven communicants. Very soon after, the work of building the church was commenced, the lot being given by Mrs. Safford. Rev. William C. French came in Noyember, 1858. The church was then but partially completed, and Mr. French did much to secure its completion. The church was consecrated in May, 1859, by Bishop McIlvaine, without any debt, and has remained so to this day. In 1868, a recess chancel was added, and also a vestibule. The whole cost of the church was about five thousand dollars.

On the same lot with the church, which comprises nearly an acre, beautifully ornamented with shrubs, a fine rectory - the only parsonage in the place - has been erected. This was begun in 1860, and completed in 1865. The church embraces now about sixty communicants, and like the other churches of the place, its membership is more or less fluctuating. The fraternal spirit of the First Church toward this first sister church, was manifested by its invitation, extended to Bishop McIlvaine, on a certain occasion before they had a church edifice, to hold service in their church, which he did, to the gratification and edification of all present.

The Second Congregational church of Oberlin was organized by a council composed of the representatives of several sister churches, May 3, 1860, one hundred persons, dismissed from the First Church for the purpose, uniting in the enterprise. This step seemed necessary from the fact that the congregation had become too large to be accommodated. The October following, the church became connected with the Cleveland conference, and in April, 1865, it was duly incorporated under the laws of the State. The following, fall steps were taken. to secure a site for a church edifice, work upon which was begun in 1867 and completed in 1870. The whole cost of the building was about thirty thousand dollars. The dedicatory exercises took place on the 30th of October, and on the following Sabbath the church transferred its meeting from the college chapel, which it had hitherto occupied, to the new building. The next fall an organ costing five thousand dollars, was purchased.

as pastors. It has had, however, two installed pastors - Rey. M. W. Fairfield from October, 1861, to December, 1864, and its present pastor, Rev. W. Kincaid, who began his labors in February, 1876, and was installed the following April. The number of members given in the manual of the church, published this year, is six hundred and forty-four, cf whom ninety-eight are absent. The number of different persons who have united with the church, is one thousand two hundred and forty.

In the summer of 1866 several Baptist brethrei and sisters, having held for some time a series ol! prayer meetings, resolved to form a church ; and fo) this purpose they called a council of neighboring churches on the 30th of July, which recognized the brethren and sisters calling the council, as a Baptist church. Ata subsequent church meeting. forty-five brethren and sisters handed in their letters of recommendation, which were read by the Rev. J. H. Langille, and they were organized into a church, the corporate name of which it was voted should be "the First Regular Baptist Church of Oberlin." From this time the church held meetings in a hall in Exchange block, in Watson's hall, and in Carpenter's hall successively, and had regular preaching. The corner-stone of a new house of worship was laid, with appropriate ceremonies, on a site procured on Hast Lorain street, September 24, 1867, and in September, 1871, the building having been completed, was formally dedicated. It is a neat and commodious brick building, and cost about fourteen thousand dollars. The present number of members is about one hundred and sixty.

In 1868, funds were collected, and a lot purchased on South Main street, by Rey. Ira Titchcock, then on Amherst circuit, for a Methodist Episcopal church, and the next year Rey. G. A. Reeder was sent to the charge, and labored faithfully to carry out the project of building achurch. But he being removed from the work at the end of the year, and there being other adverse causes, the enterprise was finally abandoned. A few years later, the society was disbanded, and nothing remained but a lot and a note of one hundred dollars from the sale of materials.

The next year, Rey. J. Evans being on the charge, the society decided to make an other effort to erect a house of worship. About twelve hundred dollars were subscribed in and around Oberlin, and the work was begun.

In 1870, Rey. A Holbrook was appointed to the 'charge, and the work was carried forward, as fast as the means on hand would allow. Contributions were received from neighboring places, and also from members of the college faculty, and from many of the members of the Congregational churches of Oberlin.

dedicated December 14th, but not until subscriptions had been taken more than enough to cover the debt. The building is a frame enclosed with brick. Its dimensions are seventy-two by forty-five feet; and its estimated value is about eight thousand dollars. Rey. J. F. Brant is the present pastor. The number of members is one hundred and sixty-two, and there is in connection with the church, a flourishing Sabbath school.

About 1868, Rey. Mathew Goosland, who had been a slave, and had bought his own freedom, began to hold meetings for the colored people in Peck's hall, and members of the college faculty preached oceasionally to them.

Subsequent to the formation of the First Methodist Episcopal church, a Second Methodist Episcopal church (colored,) was organized. The members of this church, with persevering effort, have erected a chapel edifice on South Water street, and furnished it with a bell. Their building cost them three or

A diyision occurred in this church, and in August, 1876, the seceding members organized an African Methodist Episcopal church. This is of about the same size as the other. They hold their meetings in a house, which they have purchased and fitted up, on East Lorain street.

The first cemetery was on Morgan street between Main and Professor streets. The first burials were made next to the street, but afterwards, when greater retirement was found desirable, the first graves were removed back. When the town became larger it was thought desirable to have a larger cemetery, outside of the village. A public meeting of the citizens was therefore called July 9, 1861, to take steps to form a cemetery association. A committee was appointed to draft a constitution and by-laws; which being reported at a subsequent meeting, were adopted, and the officers, consisting of six trustees and a clerk, were elected. During the next year twenty-seven and a half acres were purchased of Rev. Henry Safford, in the southwest part of the village, and +this lot was converted into a cemetery and called '"' Westwood." The grounds have since been much improved, and it has become a favorite resort. The remains of between two and three hundred have been removed from the old to the new cemetery. The whole number of interments, not including removals, from 1863 to January 1, 1878, was six hundred and forty, an annual average of about forty-two.

The principal settlements in Oberlin were first made on the east side of Main street opposite the college square, and south on thesame street. Mr. Shipherd's house was north of the square, the back part of the house now owned by Mr. Hulburd; and he afterward built the house now oceupied by Mr. Jewell. Mr. Pringle Hamilton's house, a mile south of the village, was built in 1834, and was then far in the woods. East College and East Lorain streets began' to be settled next in order. There were buildings there in 1834. In 1835 there were two houses built on Professor street, Professor Finney's and President Mahan's, and that street was not opened north of Lorain and south of College street. The house of Chauncey T. Canier, the college farmer, the one now owned by President Fairchild, was built in 1838 or '39, but was then in the lot. North Professor was not opened till sometime later, and West College was simply a pocket, having no outlet. Then West street was laid out, giving a passage across to Lorain, and it was called West street because it was supposed it was the last street that would be needed toward the west.

Pleasant street, between Lorain and College, was opened very early, but its extension north and south has been quite recent. West Lorain was opened at the beginning, but was not built up much till one got into the country. It was the only road opened to the west out of town, and made its connections with Henrietta, Brownhelm, etc. Thus, all there was of the town for a great many years, was found on four streets. The town did not extend much south of the creek, the tendency to build in that direction coming with the advent of the railroad.

The first steam mill, owned -by Oberlin College, was sold to Isaac Chamberlain. Mr. Chamberlain sold the mill to Henry Wilcox, who ran it for some time. It was owned by Beebe and Horton when it was burned in 1846 or 747.

In 1841, a saw mill was built on the east side of Water street by Ellis, Wilder and Reed. It was run a short time before it was given up. L. M. Hall built a flouring mill a short distance north of it, using the old boiler to furnish steam for the engine. Before there was any mill, Mr. Hall ran a team to bring flour from Ashland. About the year 1846, Lewis Holtslander built a grist mill on the west side of Water street, and south of Hall's mill, P. P. Stewart putting in the engine. This was only run a year or two, and is now owned by Hervey Leonard.

In 1862-3, Mr. Jenkins built a saw mill on the south side of Mill street, which Samuel Plumb bought in 1863, and sold it in the fall of the same year to Reuben Haynes and H. O. Swift. After the death of Mr. Haynes, Reuben Stone bought his interest.

The building on South Main street now occupied by L. 8. Colburn as a planing mill, was built in 1838 by three students, James A. Preston and William H. Evarts, who became missionaries to Jamaica, and Cephas Foster, who settled in Galena. President J. H. Fairchild, then a senior in college, took the job of making the window frames for fifty cents apiece, and made them, twenty in number, in five days. The building was erected to aid students depending on manual labor for support. Seth B. Ellis, who owned the shop alone, or with others, for twenty-five years, purchased the first planer and matching machine for it, and the first shingle machine. About the year 1848, a carding and cloth-dressing machine was put in, and

In 1834, before there was any post-office in town, Harvey Gibbs used to carry the mail between Oberlin and South Amherst, in a leather bag which would hold about half a peck. He was the first post-master, the post-office then being in the first building north of the site of the town hall. In 1841 T. Dwight Kells was appointed post-master. Mr. Eells was succeeded by Mr. Munson, who kept the office until 1849, and filled it again from 1853 until 1861, when G. F. H. Stevens was appointed. J. F. Harmon was appointed in 1865, and was succeeded by the present post-master, Will. Allen, in 1874.

The First National Bank of Oberlin opened for business at No. 13, West College street, in September, 1863. Samuel Plumb was its president until November, 1869, then I. M. Johnson for two months, after that A. H. Johnson until January, 1873, when I. M. Johnson was chosen, and was succeeded in January, 1874, by Hiram Hulburd, the present president. The bank was remoyed to its present location in Viets's block, on East College street, in 1870.

Professor Dascomb practiced somewhat as a physician for a short time. In 1835 or 1836, Dr. Alexander Steele was invited and came to Oberlin, and had all the practice. Dr. Otis Boise was afterward associated with Dr. Steele for a few years. In 1846, Dr. Homer practicing medicine for about ten years, to Oberlin, where he was associated with Dr. Steele, till 1859. They had a large practice, as well in the surrounding country as in the village. Dr. Steele died in April, 1872.

The colored people, who now form about one-sixth of. the whole population of the place, did not come in much at an early day. Some of the first families were those of Mr. Farris, Mrs. Crabbe, and Mr, Smith.

Sabram Cox came from the west, in 1839, as a student, and finally married and settled down, and has ever since been one of the most substantial colored citizens. Campton, Copeland and the Pattersons came from North Carolina. Anson Jones also came from North Carolina, and was one of the characters of Oberlin. When a slave, he hired his time, and by working at his trade as a blacksmith, bought himself and family ata cost of eight thousand dollars, and then came to Oberlin and put his four sons through college. Je worked away at his anvil till he was over eighty years old. He took a good deal of interest in politics, and took the National Intelligencer and the Charleston Mercury. On East College street, a mile from the center, Horace Crosby settled at a very early day, and one of the attractions of his place was a flower garden in the door yard, kept by Mrs. Crosby. The students often took walks in that direction to get a sight of the flowers.

February 17, 1846. The first mayor elected was Lewis Holtslander. By an ordinance passed by the town council, in 1853, the name of the town, the limits of which were defined, was to be the '' Incorporated Village of Oberlin." In 1861, the limits of the corporation were enlarged, and again in 1870 and 1871.

The running of the railroad through Oberlin was an important event in the history of the town. The trains began to run in the fall of 1852, and the road was then called "The Toledo, Norwalk and Cleveland Railroad," and ran through Grafton instead of Elyria. Before this, students had gone on the railroad to Wellington, and had come from there by stage. Before the road was built, students from the east commonly waited for the lake to open in the spring. This coming of the railroad to Oberlin gave both the town and the school a new start. It was soon after the inauguration of the scholarship endowment, by which the school had been so largely increased, and furnished augmented facilities to the crowds of stu dents in reaching it.

In the fall of 1858, Mr. W. Stephenson undertook to provide the town with gas, and many of the citzens took stock in the enterprise. After laying some of the pipes, he failed; and the next year Samuel Plumb assumed the undertaking, the citizens who had subscribed stock throwing it up to secure its success.

At the spring election of 1868, a large majority of the qualified electors of Russia township voted for the building of a town hall, and soon after the State legislature passed a special act constituting the township trustees and the town council a joint board to build such town hall. Acting in accordance with this, the board made an assessment, and afterward issued bonds, and contracted for the construction of the proposed building, which was completed in 1870, at a cost of eighteen or twenty thousand dollars.

The first fire engine in Oberlin was a small hand engine, which was procured about 1844. In 1852, two hand engines were bought in Rochester, New York, called the '"' Niagara" and '' Cataract;" the latter costing five hundred dollars, and the former two hundred dollars. 'These machines were used till 1865; and one of them has been fitted up, and is now used by a colored company. The other is used in the brickyard formerly owned by L. B. Kinney. In November, 1865, a steamer, - a third class Silsby engine, - was purchased, costing four thousand dollars. About 1872, a new hose cart was bought.

About 1860, a hook and ladder company was formed. In 1862, at a tournament held in Cleveland, this company won a silver trumpet, valued at one hundred dollars; and the next year, another at Sandusky, of the same value; the latter being afterward presented to M. T. Gaston, as a token of gratitude for his services. This company has won the prize in six tournaments; the prizes being four trumpets, once money, and the last a buck-horn.

The following are the names of the chief engineers, in the order in which they have served: H. CO. Taylor, Homer Johnson, David Brokaw, Mr. Peake, M. T. Gaston, H. M. Platt, M. T. Gaston, again, and now, Levi Whitney.

Many of the more important of the following facts I have copied from the Town records, as they were collected and recorded by John L. Hunter, in 1855; other interesting facts I have obtained from early settlers, or from the descendants of early settlers.

The township of Russia was owned by Street and Hughes of New Haven, Connecticut, having been bought by them of the State of Connecticut. The first settlements in the township were made in the northwest part, contiguous to the settlements in Amherst. This may have been because of the nearness to settlements already made, and also because of the better quality of the land. The first settlements seem to have been made in 1818. In that year Daniel Rathburn, Israel Cash, Thomas Waite, Jonathan Buck, John Callum and Israel Camp settled on lots number one and eleven. In 1822, Walter Buck, Samuel T. Whiteman and Esquire Green settled in the same neighborhood, but perhaps not on the same lots. In 1823, John McCalley settled on lot twelve, and in 1824, Daniel Axtell bought him out. In 1825, Richard Rice settled on lot forty-two; Israel Smith, Slan Butlaugh and Abram Wellman on lot twelve; Stephen Baker on lot three, and Stillman on lot four.

With these inhabitants, who constituted the voters, the township was organized. Early in 1825, a petition was presented to the commissioners of the county for the powers and privileges of an incorporated town- The petition was granted, and Josiah Harris, Esquire, of Amherst was appointed to preside and call the meeting to order for the first election, which was held at the house of Daniel Axtell, on lot twelve. There were sixteen voters in the township, all told, and all were present. Walter Buck, Israel Cash and Stephen Baker were judges of the first election, and Richard Rice one of the clerks, the name of the other being unknown.

In 1826, Lewis Boynton bought on lots twenty-two and thirty-two and settled; Rufus Moore on lot eighty, on the road from Elyria to Wellington; and Thomas | Errin, Elias Peabody and George Disbro on lot one.

Between 1826 and 1829, John, James, Hezekiah and Ray Tift, four brothers, with their mother, sets tled on the north and south center road, in the north part of the township. This was called 'the Tift settlement." This settlement was soon afterward increased by the arrival of Robert Meeker, George Wilcox, and Silas, Maynard and Orson Allen. A little south were George Carley and Clark Warner, and east were Abram Van Houton and his sons, and Jeremiah Bidwell.

Bridgewater, Massachusetts. His son, then a boy and now a respected citizen, lives on the old place. Mr. Orrin Gibson came the same year. He was twenty-six years old, unmarried, and rode all the way on horseback from Tompkins county, New York. He afterward married Miss Elizabeth Freeman, whose father settled in the north part of the township in 1829. Both are still living in the same house with their son. About the same time Mr. Lot Parsons bought the Tift place and settled. This settlement was about a mile in length. There was no wagon in the neighborhood, and no wagon track in the road - only a path in the middle. When they went to mill they hitched two yoke of oxen on a sled.

On the same road, farther south, Alanson A. Platt, settled in the spring of 1836, on the place now owned by Gillett, Jarvis and Bassett. He came originally from Milford, Connecticut, but had lived three years in Genesee county, New York. He had a family of thirteen children, though all did not come with him. Henry M. Platt, who has for many years carried on a photograph gallery in Oberlin, is his youngest son, and was born the fall after his father had removed to Russia.

Silas Gibson moved from Tompkins county, New York, to Henrietta, in May, 1831, and in the following February removed into Russia township, and settled about a mile and a quarter west of the Tift settlement, where he still lives. He bought his place of the Thurston brothers, who were bachelors, and with his wife and three children lived the first year in a shanty twelve by seventeen. He has raised a family of twelve children, eight boys and four girls.

His next neighbor on the south, who came in soon after he did, was Mr. Messerole, from New Jersey, whose son lives on the old place. Deer were plenty, and they could have as much venison to eat as they wanted. There were also large flocks of wild turkeys; one day he shot five and shared them with his neighbors.

The first school kept in town was in the winter of 182526, in a log school house on lot eleven. The teacher was Albert Adams, a man from Wellington, and his wages were twelve dollars per month. This west part of the town constituted district number one. Afterward another district was established east of this, and a log school house was built in the Tift settlement.

Previous to 1829, elections were held, and the township business generally was done in the west school house. In 1829, and thereafter till the place of election was changed to the village of Oberlin, elections were held at the school house on the center road. 'Daniel Axtell was the first justice of the peace, being commissioned April 22, 1826.

The first religious meeting in the township was held in 1826 by a missionary from Connecticut, who preached in a log school house on lot thirty-one.

York, when he was twenty-two, and was there married and raised a family of ten children. He first came to Russia in 1833, and bought the whole of lot seventy-two, of Street and Hughes, which was then a dense forest. The next year, he removed his family, and purchased of Walter Burk a farm partially improved, on lots thirty-one and thirty-two, where he resided till his death, June 23, 1865, at the age of eighty-two, and where his son, Alonzo Gaston, now lives. He was a strictly temperate man, and was the first man in the part of the town where he resided to put up a building, at tke raising of which intoxicating liquors were not used as a treat to the hands; and as a consequence, he was obliged to make two efforts before the raising was completed. He may be said to have been the most prominent member of the Congregational church at South Amherst, of which he was one of the deacons from its organization, in about the year 1834, until his death. In 1834 or 1835, he was elected a justice of the peace by a strictly party vote on the temperance question, the election being held at the school house near his residence, and the people of Oberlin going out to vote. He served several years in that capacity to the satisfaction of his fellow citizens.

Samuel Rossiter came to Russia from Richmoud, Massachusetts, in the fall of 1834, and bought of Street and Hughes lot eighty-two. The following February, he was married to Maria Gaston, daughter of Deacon A. Gaston, and in May they moved into a log cabin he had erected on his place, thirteen by sixteen feet within walls, with single roof, and without chamber. In the summer he built a frame barn, thirty by forty feet; and, not finding sufficient help among his neighbors to raise it, without whisky, was assisted by students and others from Oberlin. A pig-pen that he afterward built between his house and the road, and larger than his house, was often mistaken for his house, persons first knocking at the door of the pig-pen. His only vehicle for several years, for use on his farm, or for riding for business or pleasure, was a two-wheeled cart, propelled by oxen. In this, he and his family attended church at Oberlin, riding over roads made in the following manner: A track about ten feet wide was made through the dense forest two miles, from his place to town, by cutting the trees even with the ground Rails were then split, ten feet long, and a continuous bridge made of them on the above surface, then a ditch was dug at the sides, and the clay thrown upon the rails. Over such roads, when the clay scttled through -the rails, or some of the rails decayed, as they soon did, riding in an ox-cart was anything but delightful. Mr. Rossiter has had a family of eleven children, of whom ten are living. He himself now resides in Tabor, Iowa.

The settlement two miles northeast of Oberlin, know as "' New Oberlin," was begun by J. B. Hall, father of Rev. H. B. Hall, now a resident of Oberlin. In the fall of 1824, he bought land, and began to clear. He built a barn in 1836, and a house in 1839. He was an earnest christian man, and carried on meetings in the neighborhood for years.

Omar Bailey built a house in 1837, in which he now lives. Francis Spees, Israel Mattison, Stephen Cole, and Taleott Kinney were among the early settlers in that neighborhood.

Charles G. Finney

was born in Warren, Litchfield county, Connecticut, August 29, 1792. When about two years old his father removed to Oneida county, New York, where, the country being new, the subject of our sketch grew up with scant religious privileges, seldom hearing asermon. Here he obtained a common school education, and afterward, returning to New England, attended a high school. He gained some knowledge of Latin, Greek and Hebrew, and thought of going to Yale college, but did not.

In 1818 he began the study of law in Adams, Jefferson county, New York, where, for the first time in his life, he enjoyed the opportunity of hearing regularly the preaching of an educated minister, At this time also he for the first time owned a Bible, which he read with interest; and he frequently attended the weekly prayer meeting of the church. Coming finally, through the working of gospel truth on his active mind, under deep conviction, in the fall of 1821 he experienced a remarkable change of character and of life, which led him immediately to give up the law with the view of becoming a preacher of the gospel.

His conversion was the beginning of a revival in Adams, and he entered at once upon christian work with all the zeal of his ardent nature. In his preparation for the ministry, pursuing 'the study of theology under the instruction of his pastor, Rey. George W. Gale, his mind revolted from the old school Calvinistic doctrines, which brought him into frequent discussion with his teacher.

In March, 1824, he was licensed by the presbytery to preach, and soon after began his labors as a home missionary, in Jefferson county, New York.

** Having had no regular training for the ministry," he says, 'I did not expect or desire to labor in large towns or cities, or to minister to cultivated congregations. I intended to go into new settlements and

From the first he engaged in his work with an intense yet intelligent zeal; and his untiring labors produced, with God's blessing, powerful revivals. Ile was indeed possessed of uncommon natural abil- ities ; but the real secret of his success, from the beginning to the end of his ministry, is found in the fact that ne was a man full of faith and the Holy Ghost, and of much prayer.

It soon appeared that his great work was to be, not that of a pastor of a single church, but that of an evangelist, going from place to place and laboring for the awakening of the churches and the conversion of sinners. To this work the first ten years of his ministry were wholly given, during which he preached in the large towns and cities of New York, in Philadelphia, and in the principal cities of New England ; and powerful revivals occurred, resulting in the conversion of large numbers.

In the spring of 1832 he went to New York City and became pastor of a new Presbyterian church. Here he delivered a series of lectures on revivals, which were at the time reported and published in the New York Hvangelist, and being afterward collected in a book, have had a very large circulation, not only in this country, but in England and other countries of Europe.

'In the spring of 1835 he went to Oberlin, and entered upon the work of his remaining life as a professor of theology. To the formation of the characacter of this new enterprise, in its predominant religious and reformatory aspect, he was to contribute a large share. But he could not be content to be a mere teacher. The gospel message was as a fire shut up within, which would continually burst forth. Neither could it be confined to one place.

Till the infirmities of age made it physically impossible, he preached at intervals in many places, with the same fervor and success which had characterized his earlier efforts. Twice he visited England; the

From 1836 to 1873, he was pastor of the First Congregational Church of Oberlin, and from 1851 to 1866 was president of the college. His sermons were for many years published in the Oberlin Hvangelist, and since his death a selection of them has been made and published in book form.

As a theologian, Mr. Finney is perhaps less widely known than asa preacher; yet in his preaching his theology continually appears. While he was an original and independent thinker, his theological faith belongs to that phase of the evangelical system known as the new school. His theological views are embodied in his work on ''Systematie Theology," a new edition of which, revised and slightly abridged by President Fairchild, has been recently published. The basis of his system is found in his theory of the foundation of of universal being, the willing of which constitutes the true righteousness of a moral agent. The first part of his work on systematic theology consists of a thorough and masterly discussion of this whole subject, comprising a review of other theories.

Mr. Finney's preaching was not chiefly an appeal to the feelings; his sermons were always weighty with thought, and produced first and most, - conviction of the judgment. His appeal to the feelings was through the intellect. In private he was frank and genial. In his preaching, and in personal intercourse, one of his greatest charms was his unaffected sincerity. In his autobiography, published since his death, he has left a vivid and deeply impressive narrative of his revival labors.

The last two or three years of his life were spent in comparative rest and quiet. He retained his connection with the theological seminary, and finished a course of lectures to the students but a short time before his death. Concerning this closing period of his life, President Fairchild writes as follows: '' Notwithstanding the abundant and exhausting labors of his long public life. the burden of years seemed to rest lightly upon him. He stood erect as a young man, retained his faculties to a remarkable degree, and exhibited to the end the quickness of thought, and feeling, and imagination, which always characterized him. His life and character perhaps never seemed richer in the fruits and the beauty of goodness, than in these closing years and months." 'Taken suddenly ill, after a few hours of suffering, he passed peacefully to his reward, August 16, 1875, within two weeks of having completed his eighty-third year.

Mr. Finney was married three times. His last wife survives him. By his first wife he had five children, of whom four, two sons and two daughters, are now living. Of the two sons, one resides in California, the other in Wisconsin; of the daughters, one is the wife of Hon. J. D. Cox, the other of Hon. James Monroe.

James Harris Fairchild

James Harris Fairchild was born in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, November 25, 1817... In 1818 hi parents, with their family, removed to Ohio, and settled in Brownhelm, which was then a wilderness. Here, amid the influences, the stimulus, as well as hindrances of a pioneer life, he spent his boyhood. But his prevailing inclinations were to study; and happily an academy was started in his own town, at which, and at the high school in Elyria, he prepared first begun in December, 1833. In May, 1834, the appointed teachers came on from the east, and the school was then first regularly organized; and it was at this time that the subject of our sketch found his way to Oberlin. The following October, the first freshman class was organized, comprising at that time the two Fairchilds, James and his brother Henry, next older, now president of Berea College, Kentucky, and two others.

Pursuing his course steadily, he graduated from college in 1838; after which he entered at once upon a theological course, which he completed in 1841. In 1839, while studying theology, he was appointed tutor in Latin and Greek in the college; and on the completion of his course in theology in 1841, he was elected professor of Latin and Greek. In November, 1841, he was married to Miss Mary F. Kellogg, of Minden, Louisiana. In 1847 he was transferred to the chair of mathematics and natural philosophy, and in 1858 he received the appointment of professor of moral philosophy and systematic theology. In 1866 President Finney resigned his position, and Professor Fairchild was appointed his successor, a position he has held until the present time. -

Thus it appears that from its beginning President Fairchild has been identified with Oberlin. His connection with it, beginning in his youth, has been continued to the maturity of his manhood, This connection has been uninterrupted, save by a single year of foreign travel. Early fashioned in mind and character by the positive and potent ideas, - theological, philosophical and reformatory, - which have given Oberlin its distinctive character, he has been thus well fitted to become, in his time, one of Oberlin's representative men. His life has not been eventful, but it has been a busy one. It has been a quiet, yet a progressive life.

As a public speaker he is quiet and self-contained, and though impressive, would not be called oratorical. Yet, so fraught are bis productions with elevated and original thought, clothed in a style clear and terse, that corresponding thoughts are awakened in' his auditors, which do not pass away with the hearing. His public addresses on special occasions have uniformly possessed so high a degree of excellence that, almost without exception, they have been requested for publication.

That which best expresses and explains his life is, fidelity to duty. He has not been ambitious, or eager for distinction; but he has risen to a high position in the esteem, respect and admiration of a large number. He has given himself to his work with a devotion which has known no abatement.

There is found in him, in no ordinary degree, both the speculative and the practical. His mind grapples resolutely, and works actively and intensely on the great subjects of thought; but high thoughts do not so absorb his attention as to make him negiectful of the necessary details of practical affairs. He is wise in little things as in great.

The prevailing bent of his mind is unquestionably ethical. Though his mind is too comprehensive to allow him to be a mere specialist, yet his favorite he has long dwelt; and the result of his thinking and teaching he has embodied in his treatise on moral philosophy. This is an admirable exposition of the moral law of love or benevolence; first, in its philosophy or reason; and, secondly, in its practical appli-

Under his wise and discreet management, Oberlin college has undergone a gradual and continual improvement. 'This improvement is, indeed, its natural growth; yet it is not spontaneous, but must be promoted by intelligent effort, in which many co-operate. This growth consists in the enlargement and perfecting of the course of study, so as to furnish a culture broader and higher; and, as a necessary material basis for this, an adequate college endowment.

The name of 'Father Keep" is a household word in some parts of the land, and is not unfamiliar in others to those who have known little of his work and his life.

John Keep was born in Longmeadow, Hampden county, Massachusetts, April 20, 1781. His father, Samuel Keep, was of the fourth generation from John Keep, who was one of the earliest settlers of Longmeadow, and the ancestor of all of the name of Keep who have had a residence in New England. [lis mother was Sabina Cooley, daughter of Josiah Cooley, of Longmeadow. He was the seventh of nine children, all but one of whom reached nearly seventy years of age. His father died at eighty-four, and his paternal grandmother at ninety-two.

The father, Samuel Keep, was a thriving farmer, of robust frame and vigorous mind, a leading christian man, much regarded in the community for his practical sagacity, and the wisdom of his counsels in all matters of business.

John was thoroughly trained in farm work until seventeen years of age, when he entered Yale College and passed regularly through the course, graduating in 1802 with a class of sixty members, all of whom he outlived. A portion of the time in college he paid his board by dining-room work in the college commons, returning to the farm in vacations to do good service there. After a year's teaching, he entered upon special study, in preparation for the ministry, under the private instruction of Rev. Asahel Hooker, of Goshen, Connecticut. . Jane 11, 1805, he was approved, by the Litchfield North Association, as a candidate for the ministry, having already received an invitation to preach from the society in Blandford, Massachusetts.

While pursuing theological studies in Goshen, he was a boarder in the family of Judge Nathan Hale. where he became acquainted with Miss Lydia Lale, whom he married soon after entering upon his work at Blandford.

wishes to Miss Lydia, asking her to consider his proposal a week and then give him a definite reply. Before the week closed, she put into his hand a paper, mostly blank, with her name near the bottom of the page, and the following postscript: "I accept your proposal, and, that you may make your arrangements unembarrassed, you may put above my name any words you may choose expressive of my affection for you, and I will redeem the pledge." That pledge was redeemed, by rare fidelity and devotion, through almost sixty years of married life. Mr. Keep's own testimony to her worth will not be regarded, by those who knew her best, as an overstatement: '' To her I owe much, yea, it verily seems to me all, of what suecess I have had in my ministerial labors. In this sphere she was always a reliable guide. Her counsels, deliberate, never obtrusive, always given in a kind spirit, yet clear and firm, became to me Jaw, so fully did they bear the proof that she had the mind of Christ. he duties of her home circle and pastoral life were her pastime; yet she quietly bore the privations, often severe to one of her quiet, retiring temperament, inseparable from the itinerancy of her husband as an agent and a lecturer, never holding him back from any consideration merely affecting herself. Such a helper, such a companion and coworker, God gave me for fifty-nine years and four months."

The church and society at Blandford, where Mr. Keep began his ministry, were in a distracted condition, unable to harmonize in the calling of a pastor. The first settlers of the place were of Scotch-Irish origin, possessing much native vigor of body and mind, but not much of the grace of gentleness and conciliation. Conflicts on the affairs of the parish had characterized the town meetings for a generation,

When the invitation was extended to Mr. Keep to come and preach as a candidate, the church had become discouraged in the effort to harmonize with the society, and had ceased to co-operate. Myr. Keep was invited by the trustees of the society alone, and the members of the church came to the meeting on the appointed Sabbath with sad hearts to hear the society's minister, without any expectation of being able to approve.

He preached his firs¢ sermon to this distracted congregation. Both parties were delighted, but each expected that the other would reject the candidate. The final call for his ordination was unanimous, and when, after sixteen years of labor, he decided to Jeave, there was a unanimous vote urging him to remain, and pledging continued and liberal support.

The parish would not seem an inviting one for a young minister seeking ease, or opportunity for selfculture. It was a rough, mountainous region, and the people were much like the country, scattered over an area seven by nine miles in extent. The average annual sale of intoxicating drinks in the town at the time of Mr. Keep's ordination, ''is put by one authority at fifty hogsheads, by another as low as twenty-five," and this in a population of only one thousand five hundred. Intemperance, of course, diminished as the people made progress in intelligence and refinement. In this good work the pulpit gave no uncertain sound, but announced the doctrines of the temperance reformation twelve years before the general movement on this subject in New England. When Mr. Keep went to Blandford, he found a resolution on the records of the town meeting in these words: '' Resolved, That we will not allow any preacher the use of the pulpit to solicit money in support of missionaries." When he left, the cause of missions was cherished with interest and received a liberal support. All this was not effected without earnest and thorough labor. One who was at that time a youth in Blandford writes of these efforts:

'"'With great plainness he unfolded to his people their obligations to the unevangelized abroad, and to the waste places of our own land. In different aspects and with varying application, he held up the Saviour's last command, and showed the insufficiency and hollowness of a piety that consisted of profession alone and did not work by love. These now self-evident truths sounded strangely then, and their utterance - excited great opposition. I distinctly recall the tones of injured innocence in which one of his parishioners complained of the pain which those appeals occasioned him: 'Last Sunday afternoon,' said he, 'I sweat my shirt through while Mr. Keep was begging for the heathen.' "

In May, 1821, Mr. Keep, in response to an invitation from the Congregational church in Homer, New York,. decided to ''remove to the West." He had at the same time a call from the church in Brunswick, Maine, with the added responsibilities proposed of "'teacher of moral philosophy and preacher in the college."

The parish in Homer opened a wider field than that from which he retired. The church had four hundred names upon its record, and the Sabbath congregation averaged six hundred. There was a flourishing academy in the place, of which Mr. Keep was elected a trustee soon after his settlement. He entered upon this field when he was forty-one years of age, in full vigor of body and mind, with an experience of sixteen years in the pastoral relation, and all his resources were brought to bear upon the work before him. An extract from a written statement made by one of his parishioners, will afford some apprehension of his labors there. |

«' He was now in the full possession of his mental and physical manhood, in the enjoyment of good health, and he entered upon the duties of this new charge with all, the zeal, industry, and energy of his ardent temperament. His congregation, mingled in a population of six thousand souls, spread over an area of ten miles square, were to be full-fed on the Sabbath, to be nursed in their families, to be bathed in his sympathies when sick, and to be tenderly sustained at the burial of their dead, requiring religious visits, many weekly lectures and a perpetual succession of funeral sermons. His pulpit discourses were uniformly well prepared and attractive ; his various and exceedingly multiplied duties out of the pulpit were punctually performed, and to the satisfaction of the community. Through his influence as president of the board of trustees of the academy, a ladies' department was inaugurated, more teachers were employed, the attendance of pupils increased, and the institution was at once placed on a basis which led it on and upward to a position of one of the most popular and useful educational agencies in central New York.

'""Mr. Keep was remarkable for the interest he manifested in all the business, social, and religious affairs of the community. No one knew so much as he of all that was going on in the community. For the aged he ever had a pertinent thought, a word of consolation and cheerful advice. 'To the middle-aged business men, he was ever ready to address words of encouragement and wise counsels. For the young he invariably had a word of cheerful greeting and a hearty welcome. No child, ever so young, escaped his notice. He thus became a great favorite with the youth and children in our vicinity. The admission to the church, during his twelve years' labor among us, of five hundred members, is the reliable testimony that the blessing of God attended his ministration.

«During the five years before his removal from us, he maintained weekly five Bible classes, in as many different districts, and such was his punctuality in fulfilling his appointments, that only in one instance did he fail of being present with his class. Many members of the church received their first religious impressions under his faithful presentations of truth in these Bible recitations.

'His ardent temperament, with his talent for leading the community, placed him in the front rank in all measures necessary for a healthful public sentiment, the prosperity of the church, and the strength and adornment of a christian commonwealth ; yet in all this he was never captious or dogmatical, but at all times ready to listen to the opinions of others, and to profit by their suggestions, never allowing expediency to take the precedence of principle."

A man so ardent and progressive would inevitably find some tendency to reaction in his church, and the apprehension that this might at length result in dissension and party division induced him to tender his resignation, and thus avert the danger. Many were grieved at his decision, but he never regretted the step.

Two calls were then before him - one to an agency in New England in behalf of the American Colonization Society, the other to the care of a church in

Until about this time, most of the practical antislavery fecling of the country had gathered about the colonization socicty - an organization the design of which was to send free colored people and liberated slaves to Africa, where it was supposed they belonged. Mr. Keep was a colonizationist : and with this call in his pocket he came on to Cleveland.

The doctrine of immediate emancipation on the soil had just been broached by Garrison and others, syd the colonization society had been assailed as selfish and eruel.

Pondering these questions on his journey, he came ont om unconditional emancipationist, and hence declined the call to the agency ; not that he was more opposed to slavery than before, but he had obtained new light as to the practical treatment of it.

Cleveland, in 1833, was a village of three or four thousand inhabitants, and here Mr. Keep spent a year as pastor of the Stone Church, - now the First Presbyterian Church. Then with a colony from this church he organized a church in Ohio City, - now the First Congregational Church, West Side, - and_ became its pastor.

The work at Oberlin was commenced in 1833. In the spring of 1834 the permanent teachers came upon the ground, and in the autumn of that year Father Keep was elected a trustee and president of the board. From this time he began to be known as Father Keep, not so much on account of his age, which was fiftythree years, as for his benignant, fatherly character.

One of the first questions before the board after his election, was that of opening the doors of the college to colored pupils. Several meetings were held; the discussions were long and earnest; there was much excitement in the new ''colony;" and when the vote was taken in the final meeting, there was a tie. Father Keep, as president, gave the casting vote, and determined the position of the college and of the community on the side of the colored people. The position was taken with hesitation, but courage grew with the conflicts which followed. From that hour Father Keep took Oberlin on his heart, and never laid it off until he laid off all earthly thought and care. During the fecbleness of the last day of his life, he referred to a letter which he was writing in the interests of the college, saying that he would finish it tomorrow.

In 1836, he resigned his pastorate in Cleveland, and accepted a financial agency for the college. This work he prosecuted for a year with excellent success; but the financial crash of 1837 came on, and only a few of the pledges secured were redeemed - his own, of one thousand dollars, being one of the few. 'The times were unpropitious for such an effort, and he resigned his agency to return to pastoral work.

But there were few pulpits, in those days, open to a minister connected with the unpopular cause of abolitionism, and the unpopular college of Oberlin. He preached a few months in Wooster, Ohio, and afterward in Lockport and Albion, New York.

Then, in view of the pressing wants of the college, especially of a debt which was truly formidable, and the impossibility of raising money in this country, in the spring of 1839, in connection with Mr. William Dawes, a trustee of the college, he undertook a mission to England for its relief. Mr. Dawes was the leader in the enterprise, and Father Keep was his ardent supporter and co-laborer. It was a bold undertaking, but successfully accomplished, giving a net result of thirty thousand dollars in aid of the college, and furnishing relief which was vital to the success of the enterprise at Oberlin. This sum was collected by personal application, and in small amounts, mostly under fifty dollars each, involving a great expenditure of labor and patience, continued through a year and a half. Mr. Dawes and Father Keep gave themselves to the work without reservation, not even taking a day for recreation or sight-seeing, passing St. Paul's daily, for weeks together, without turning aside to visit it. It was not because Father Keep lacked appreciation of such objects of interest, or had no desire to see, but because he had given himself to a great work, and it engrossed the energies of his soul. This arduous and self-denying labor he performed almost without compensation.

For the next ten years, he gave himself to the work of preaching, haying charge of churches in Mansfield and Hartford, Ohio, and preaching in Arcade, New York, and Litchfield, Ohio.

In 1850, having nearly reached his threescore years and ten, he removed his family to Oberlin, put on the harness again, and aided in raising an endowment of one hundred thousand dollars by the sale of scholships. Here he passed the remainder of his years; but they were not years of idleness, or the quiet enjoyment of the fruit of his labors. He filled them all to the very last with a ceaseless activity; looking after the interests of the college and the place; going out upon an occasional agency; writing letters to friends and acquaintances to enlist their sympathy and aid; preaching without compensation from place to place on the great themes of the gospel and the pressing questions of the times, the doctrine of human rights, and the true idea of a ''christian commonwealth; " aiding in every public enterprise of the town, as church building and the schools; looking after the poor and the stranger; showing an intense interest in all that concerned the welfare of the families and the place; attending diligently all meetings of the trustees of the college, and cheering on every effort for improvement, often electrifying the whole body of trustees and faculty with the impulse of his ardor and his energy and faith. Others might be discouraged; he never was. His personal contributions to the college in money and services, estimated at the lowest standard at the time when rendered, exceed four thousand dollars; and all this at great self-denial, most of the time without any income, shut out from pastoral work by his labors for the college.

ous constitution, and during his long life enjoyed almost uninterrupted health. He was never confined to his bed a single day, save the last one of his life. Perhaps the best explanation of this fact is, that '"'a cheerful heart doeth good like a medicine." For a few wecks before his death, he was more feeble than usual, and felt that his end was near. He spoke of his decease and made arrangements for it with as much freedom and cheerfulness as if it had been a journey or a change of residence.

February 11, 1870, his long journey was finished. He died, not because he was overcome by disease, but because he had lived life out. He closed his eyes as calmly as a child to sleep, holding the hands of his daughter, and putting his last breath into a farewell kiss. At last he rested from his labors.

Some of the prominent traits of Father Keep's character are well exhibited in the following communication from Rev. Albert H. Plumb, Boston, Massachusetts, who knew him in his best days:

"The visits of my uncle, Rev. John Keep, to my father's house in my childhood, are remembered with great interest. His cheery ways, his quaint and pithy sayings, his kind interest in each member of the family, made his coming a breezy, sunny time.

"'He seemed to have a rare faculty of comprehending at once the entire situation of the parties, of discerning just the topics which a wise regard for the interests of the families would bring up for conference; and passing quickly by all the little nothings which too often engross the thoughts when friends meet, occasioning regret afterwards that needful things were left unsaid, he promptly seized hold of each important subject in its order, so that when he left our roof we all felt like saying, 'what a satisfactory visit! how much was accomplished!' His life often reminded me of one of his own aphorisms: 'Duty done gilds the future.'

''He must have early formed, for he long maintained, a habit of looking with real interest upon every person he met, and of giving to almost every one some inspiring word bearing on his vital interests. These vigorous sayings often carried so much concentrated wisdom that they were treasured as mottoes for life.

"He was endued with remarkable foresight, so that his age was not embittered by the overthrow of his plans, and the disappointment of his hopes, through the changes of the times. On the contrary, he enjoyed, as few are privileged to do, the realization of his fondest hopes, the triumphs of his most sacrificing toils.

"'As a friend, Mr. Keep was beyond praise. How quickly personal grief melted away in the warm sunlight of his presence; for, in his high consecration to great and worthy ends, he thought little about himself - his frames or moods, his burdens or cares. His friendship was wise, far-sighted, and it held on. Look at his married life - one long, peaceful, cloudless summer day! And when, at length, husband and wife

In noticing further the character exhibited in the life of Father Keep, we are struck with his permanent and ever fresh interest in life and its work. He was never disposed to live in the past, or imagine the former times better than these. He congratulated those who were younger, that they were permitted to live and act in these better days, and no admonition to his younger brethren was more often on his lips, than that they should appreciate the privilege of living at such a time as this, and not fall behind the age.

Hence, he was naturally a progressive, and never a conservative. He had no veneration for anything merely because it was of long standing. He was always looking for something better, and ready to enlist in any reform that promised any good. And this trait was quite as prominent when he had passed his fourscore years as in his early manhood; out of this, and his abiding faith in God, sprung his great hopefulness and his never-failing confidence in results.

This hopefulness and faith were perhaps the source of another trait - his courage and fidelity in maintaining his convictions of unpopular truth. Few, at this later day, can appreciate the .courage which it required, in his early manhood, to espouse as he did the cause of the colored man, and to identify himself with the friends of abolitionism so thoroughly.

He had a plan for everything. Nothing was ever done at random, or by accident. He was not drifted along by circumstances, but subjected circumstances to his purpose. His mind was fertile in devising, and persevering and inflexible in execution. This appears in his early pastorates, and is the secret of the great amount of work which he was able to accomplish. His plans took in all the interests of every family in his wide parish, - and were laboriously and faithfully carried out in all their details.

This habit carried into his business, explains how he was able to live upon his slender means, almost without income, and yet give to benevolent causes more than most persons who had tenfold his resources. Nothing but rigid economy, and the most systematic conduct of his affairs, could have accomplished such results. Many a minister of later days might learn wisdom from him 1n this particular,

Finally, Father Keep was a man of disinterested and abounding love. His self-forgetfulness was most remarkable, and he manifested it everywhere. He lived to do good, and his love embraced all classes. His mind was occupied with plans for others, seldom for himself. His reflections and private meditations did not pertain to his own state. He sometimes regretted that he had not more of an experience, and depreciated his own subjective life and character in comparison with what seemed to him the higher experience of his friends. But he held on his way in simple and transparent faith and obedience, and to the end testified of the sufficiency of Christ and his salvation. His faith was as striking as his good-will to men.

He never had any sympathy with the spirit of reformers who showed disrespect for the Bible and the church. It was his great aim to apply the principles of the gospel to all the relations and affairs of man. To this agency, under the blessing of God, he ascribed all improvevements in the condition of the world. And so, in quiet trust and earnest consecration, he waited the call of his Master, and when the summons came, went home in peace.

Samuel Matthews

When a truly good man passes away, the community in which his noble qualities were known and appreciated stand in awe at the divine dispensation, and are naturally led to wonder why Providence should select one who, by the very excellence of his life and character, could be so much more benefit to mankind in general than many others. But His ways are inscrutable, hence the seeming inconsistency of events, as viewed from a mortal's standpoint. The above thoughts are called forth by reference to the obiturary notice of the death of the late Samuel Matthews, who departed this life May 8, 1877, and of whom it can be truly said, no better man ever lived within the limits of Russia township.

Samuel Matthews was born in Addison county, Vermont, September 19, 1817. His ancestors had been prominent citizens of that State for many years, and we find his father, Lucius Tuttle Matthews, and his grand-father, Darius Matthews, residents of Cornwall, the latter living there in 1788, and the former born therein 1793. They were a hardy, honest and practical class of citizens, just the kind, in fact, to be the progenitors of pioneers.

When Samuel was a boy, his father emigrated to 'Ohio, and settled in Thompson, Geauga county. In the year 1837, at the age of nineteen, he (Samuel,) struck out for himself, came to Russia township, and contracted for one hundred acres of land, upon which his widow and daughters now reside. He made his home with his uncle, Deacon Daniel B. Kinney, while making a start upon his new farm. With but little capital, except astrong constitution, a brave heart and willing hands, he commenced making an opening in the wilderness, got out timber for a barn, erected a log house, and brought his father and mother on to share his home. Here they all lived together until 1849, when, on the 19th of September of that year, he married Lomanda, daughter of Enoch Barnum. She was born in Ashtabula county, Ohio, March 12, 1816. Her father was a soldier of the war of 1812, during which he was severely wounded, and on that account was a pensioner. There were born to them two daughters, Emma Augusta, born February 14, 1851;

As showing how difficult a matter it was, in early days, to obtain money, and what slow work it was to pay for his farm, he used to raise oats and sell them for one shilling per bushel, and when he had thus gathered a few dollars, he would go to Amherst, the home of the agent, on foot, after a hard day's work, and pay it on his article, and so persevered, paying little by little, until his farm was all paid for.

His parents were christians of the old puritan Congregational school, and being naturally sober and thoughtful, he early made a profession of religion, and soon after arriving in Russia united with the Congregational church of Oberlin. At the division of the society, he was one of the number that withdrew from the old church and formed what is now known as the Second Church. His heart was enlisted in the work of erecting a church edifice, and he yoluntarily pledged two hundred dollars to this object to be paid in installments, but realizing the immediate need of funds, he borrowed the money, at ten per cent. interest, and paid it all at once. He and his excellent wife, who joined him in every good work, afterward took one hundred dollars in the building fund, which they soon after paid. He was never forward or ostentatious, never seeking notoriety, but in his quiet, retiring way; was ever a steady, earnest, consistent christian. His deeds of charity were numerous and constant; many were the acts of kindness which he performed without any hope of reward, and which will live in the hearts of his neighbors long after his mortal remains shall have mouldered to dust.

suffering. After his marriage his father and mother went to Iowa, to live with children there, but at the death of his mother, his father returned to finish his days with his son Samuel. he father and mother of Mrs. Matthews also found a home in his house, and in their declining years were cared for with generous kindness until removed by death.

Mr. Matthews was a man whom to know was to love, and whose name from the first to the last continued a synonym for all that wes benevolent, generous and good. His character for personal integrity was above reproach. In the exalted relations of husband and father he was kind and affectionate, a good provider, but reasonably exacting in family discipline and obedience. In fine, he was a man whose life in general constituted a worthy example of practical usefulness.

Charles Bassett

Among the families whose general worth has made them conspicuous in the history, not only of the community in which some members of them now reside, but also in the eastern States where for more than two centuries their ancestors have resided, that of the Bassetts hold an exalted and prominent position. The progenitors of him whose name heads this sketch, settled in Massachusetts contemporary with the pilgrim fathers, while those of his mother actually came to America on the ''Mayflower" in 1620, she being a lineal descendant of Miles Standish, the warrior pilgrim. Each successive generation from this historic stock have by industrious and-straightforward lives done honor to their exalted ancestry.

Charles Bassett was born in the town of Chili, Monroe county, New York, March 10, 1820, and we write this sketch of him on the fifty-ninth anniversary of his birth-day. He was the youngest child and second son of Nathan Bassett and Sarah Standish, the former of whom was born August 12, 1763, the latter, December 10, 1775, both at Bridgewater, Massachusetts. 'They were married April 4, 1793, and lived together sixty years, the husband and father dying in 1853, the wife and mother in 1854. Their children numbered nine, and were born in the order named: Thomas, Phebe, Sarah, Naomi, Betsey, Freelove, Amanda, Emily and Charles. In 1812 they removed to Chili, Monroe county, New York, and to Russia township in 1834. They settled on the farm now occupied by their son, Charles, and for two years lived in a log cabin, 14 by 16 feet, an illustration of which appears in the sky margin of: the view of the homestead on another page of this volume. In 1836 he erected a frame house, which is still standing in the rear of the present residence. Nathan Bassett was a man of extraordinary vitality, and possessed mental capabilities above the average. He was of a sunny temperament, of a jocular disposition, and had an extended knowledge of human nature. In his younger days he had been a great traveler, having spent seven years on the ocean, in the service of the West India Company. Asa sample of his indomitable will and courage we mention the fact that he had reached his ''three score years and ten" when he penetrated the wilderness, purchasing sixty-seven acres of land, and made a home for himself and wife in Russia township.

Towards the close of the revolutionary war, he volunteered, and went with his regiment to Rhode Island, where the British were expected to land. He also served in the war of 1812, at Buffalo, New York, where he was wounded. He lived to the age of ninety years, and to within a few months of his death was as active as most men at sixty. On the Christmas day preceding his decease he was prostrated by a paralytic shock, the effects of which, four months later, ended his remarkable life. He enjoyed the respect and esteem of all by whom he was known, and his memory to-day is green in the hearts of those who knew him best. In politics he was an old line whig. He held several offices in the township government, notably that of school examiner. His last days were rendered as comfortable as possible, and the filial affection of his children, and the long-tried love of his devoted

Charles Bassett, son of the above, follows in his father's footsteps, and like him enjoys a deserved respectability and prominence in the community of which for forty-five years he has been an honored citizen. The people of the township, reposing confidence in his integrity, elected him a number of times township trustee, and two terms a justice of the peace, besides to other minor offices, especially to that of school director, which office he has held nearly every year since he attained his majority.

On the 7th of September, 1846, he married Emma, daughter of John and Ann Parsons, and sister of Lott Parsons of Russia township. She was born at Noil, England, July 28, 1819. They have five children, namely: Emma, born April 26, 1847, married Frederick EK. Griffin of Amherst; Charles Henry, born April 26, 1850; Miles Standish, born December 1, 1851; Helen, born January 20, 1857; Harvey Lewis, born July 3, 1859. All except Emma reside at home with their parents, the sons conducting the business of the farm under the direction of their father. Mr. Bassett has been a farmer all his life, and now has two hundred and thirty-five acres of well improved land, including the original sixty-seven acres purchased by his father in 1834. He is a good practical farmer; a man of domestic tastes; economical and independent in the management of his affairs; a good husband and father, and an honest trustworthy citizen.

Lott Parsons

Among the self-made and self-educated men of Lorain county, whose personal exertions have led to a successful issue, none deserve more general credit than he of whom we write. Leaving his native land when a child, and soon after settling in the then wilds of Lorain county, presently losing his father, his early career was a peculiarly difficult one. At his father's death, a large share of the support of his widowed mother fell upon him; and though but a lad in his teens, he accepted the duty with a fortitude worthy of riper years, and with a commendable determination, fulfilled the same faithfully and well. Such conduct, and the early developement of similar good qualities, laid the foundation to his subsequent success in life, as will be set forth in the subjoined brief narrative of the most salient features of his life and character.

Lott Parsons was born in Wilkshire, England, on the 9th of January, 1821. He is the son of John and Ann (Yetman) Parsons, who were also natives of the same shire. In March, 1832, the family embarked at Bristol for New York, arriving at the latter place in the following May. They -proceeded thence to Mentor, Lake county, Ohio, where they remained during the ensuing summer. In the following fall, John

Parsons came on to Russia township, and in conjunction with a cousin, purchased, by contract, a quarter of section of land, but the land agent afterward ignored the stipulated agreement, and the bargain fell through.

During the next year (1833), Mr. Parsons and his family settled permanently in Russia township, upon a part of the farm now occupied by Lott Parsons, his son. John Parsons dicd the same fall, his untimely death casting a gloom over his family, which it took many subsequent years to efface. But his widow and her children possessed the sterling qualities that have made their native land famous in the ages of the past, - fortitude and a hardihood that defy reverses. They brought the requisite amount of industry and stern practical economy to bear upon their unfortunate situation, and succeeded in establishing a comfortable home, where the head of the family had cast their lot.

On the 18th of October, 1844, Mrs. Parsons died, but not before she had seen the fruits of her own and her children's battle with adversity, with the apparent assurance of victory.

On the 25th of December, 1851, Lott Parsons and Catharine E. Kendeigh were united in marriage. She was born in Amherst, January 5, 1826. They have had six children, namely: Frank 8., born November 1, 1852, married Cornelia Sherman, of Henrietta, now resides in North Amherst; Mary A., born July 4, 1854, (deceased); Willie E., born January 19, 1858; Viola E., born May 1, 1860; John G., born January 4, 1863; Henry C., born April 17, 1870.

It can be truly said of Mr. Parsons, that he has done as much toward the material devolopment of Russia township as any man now residing therein. He has cleared as much of its wild land as any, and in the way of scientific investigation and utilization of its resources, stands pre-eminently ahead of all. About ten years ago, he put to practical uses the gas that exists in large quantities on his farm, particularly showing itself in a well that he sunk years ago. He now has gas all over his house, and in the summer, his good wife uses it for cooking and other household purposes. His sitting room is heated by it, through the medium of an ingeniously contrived stove, of his.own invention.

A remarkable feature about Mr. Parsons, when we consider the fact that he never received even the rudiments of an education, is his general and varied knowledge, especially of the science of geology. In this particular branch of learning, he excels almost any man, not of classical and scientific education. While a youth, toiling for his daily bread, and for the maintenance of his widowed mother, at ten dollars per month, he would borrow books, and in the quiet of the night, while others slumbered, he would study.

His farm buildings, - of which an illustration, together with portraits of himself and wife, appears on another page of this volume, - show how, little by little, he has added thereto. He now owns, in all, one hundred and fifty acres of land, and is considered one of the substantial practical farmers of his township. His perseverance and industry, coupled with an unflinching personal honesty, are chief characteristics, and the main factors to his success.