Northfield Village (part 1 of 4)

Northfield Township

^TORTHFIELD was one of the equalizing l\i townships. It was originally' called Town 5, Range 11 ; and the reason of its being classed as one of the equalizing townships will be found elsewhere in this volume. It was included among the few townships which were superior to the average, and each proprietor was anxious to have a portion of it ; consequently, it was divided into shares of 160 acres each, and parceled out among the New England proprietors, who, not having seen the land, and believing that, from its stated superiority, it should be retained until time had assured the settlers of its value, refused to sell for a number of years, thus accounting for the tardy appearance of this portion of the county in market. It may also be stated that some of the original proprietors died, leaving their possessions in this township to minor children, thus preventing the disposal of the land until after these children had arrived at their majorit}'. The fact of its being one of the best townships in the Reserve served to prevent its earl}' appearance in market. It will be noted in this connection that, while average townships were not altered or cut up into segments and distributed to others, on the other hand, townships both poorer and better than the average were parceled out as has been described. Northfield was accounted one of the best sections of country in the Reserve, and the various reasons for this view will now be carefully noticed.

Its location was thought at that time to be excellent. Along its entire western border was a river that could be navigated by boats of the largest size, thus favoring the township with easy and constant communication with Lake Erie and all the towns upon its shore. At that time, twice the present volume of water swept down the river, and it was not dreamed in the philosophy of the earl}' settlers, that the quan- tity would ever be materially decreased, at least to such an extent as to prevent extensive navigation. The valley of the river on the Northfield side was sloping and well drained, giving abundant promise that future years would disclose a soil of unusual fertility and strength. The bluffs bordering the valley, though too abrupt and precipitous to be turned up by the plow in the future, were sufficiently sloping to afford fine pasture land. Back of the hills was as fine a land for -the agriculturist as lay beneath the sun. Though sufficiently flat to be too damp for the farmer in early years, it was also sufficiently rolling to promise that, when the heavy woods were removed, and the cheerful light and heat of the sun were permitted to drink up the superficial waters, a soil would be found of excellent adaptability to agricultural purposes. The soil is largely alluvial, and contains an unusual percentage of partially decayed vegetable material, though years have elapsed since it was first brought under cultivation. It contains less clay and more organic I'emains than almost any other portion of the county ; and for this reason, as well as for the fact that there is but little waste land, the township was classed by the examining committee as one of the finest in the entire Reserve.

The river on the west affords the principal source of drainage. It has various small branches, which traverse the township with sufficient fall, in many places, to furnish fine water-power. Of these branches. Brandywine Creek is the main one. This stream flows from near the southeast corner toward the northwest, until the village of Little York is reached, when it is joined by Indian Run, and takes a coarse toward the southwest, dipping across what was once the township line into Boston, but returning toward the northwest, and finally uniting with the river on Lot 70. Indian Run rises near the northeast corner, and flowing a trifle west of south, unites with Brand3'wine Creek at Little York. Much of the northern part is drained b}- Sangamore Creek, while the western part sends its waters to the river by means of numerous small unnamed streams. There are several valuable stone quarries in Northfield, though from their remoteness from the river, they will not prove as profitable as those from which the stone can be loaded without much expense on the canal boats. A few, however, are found bordering the river ; these in time will secure merchant work, though at present, the stone is mostly used at home.

The first settler was Isaac Bacon, a native of Boston, Mass., who, in 1806, purchased 160 acres (Lot 63) in Northfield, and the following year, in April, came with his family to their forest home. No settler lived within six or eight miles ; and, as Mr. Bacon was a total stranger, and was uncertain where to go to secure help in rearing his log cabin, he at last concluded to undertake it alone. This was no light undertaking, as the logs were much too heavy to be raised b}' one man to their elevated positions on the wall. Mr. Bacon was therefore compelled to resort to some skillful process, whereby the needed assistance might be avoided. Large skids were braced against the wall, and then, by means of a long rope, which passed over the half-finished building, a yoke of oxen pulled the heavy logs to the required position. At the end of five days the cabin was raised, and covered with a roof made of bark ; the family living, in the meantime, in the wagon, which stood near. With no neighbor nearer than Tinker's Creek for three years, with the privilege of seeing white faces only by traveling many miles, the family of Mr. Bacon lived here isolated and alone. Mrs. Bacon was afterward often heard to remark, that for six months after their arrival she saw the face of no white woman, save the one reflected to her aye when she looked in some clear pool of water. Many incidents of the dangers and privations endured by this family ere the township received other settlers have been gathered ; and a few of these, which illustrate the lonely, deserted and dangerous surroundings of the forest will be narrated. At this period, almost every stream of any note which flowed into Cuyahoga River was the site of numerous Indian encampments, which varied in size from one wigwam, which sheltered one family, to encampments containing several hundreds of the semi-civilized race. A small camp of three wigwams was on Mr. Bacon's farm, and these families continued to camp there at stated seasons for many years, or until they took their final departure for the West. One daj' when Mrs. Bacon was alone in the cabin, a party of six or seven Indians went to the house, and, after entering without ceremony or invitation, called for whisky-. 3Irs. Bacon, knowing her helpless condition, and foreseeing difficulty and very likely extreme danger should her visitors become intoxicated, informed them that she had none, and that they had better be going on, as her husband would soon appear. After talking among themselves a few minutes, and carefully and suspiciously e3'ing Mrs. Bacon and the various articles in the room, the Indians finally insisted that she did have whisky, and immediately proceeded to search for it, notwithstanding the energetic and earnest protests of the defenseless woman. A large bottle containing about a gallon of the liquor was soon found, and was quickly passed from hand to hand until all was gone, when the Indians, with man}- grimaces and threatening looks and gestures, quitted the premises, to the great relief of the apprehensive woman. She had attempted to interfere when the bottle was first discovered, but several of the Indians drew their knives, and circling them in the air as if in the act of scalping, sternly motioned her back. They departed and were seen no more. The Indians were not the only human beings to be feared. Many desperate men, numbers of whom were undoubtedly outlaws, passed through the frontier settlements on the look-out for any game, no matter how dark, that would meet their desires of avarice or selfishness. One day, about noon, a dark-visaged man made his appearance at the cabin when Mr. Bacon was awa}', and, after learning of the absence of the husband, and asking all sorts of impudent questions, sat down with his fierce eyes fixed on the woman, and on a large dog that lay near the hearth watching, with suspicious glances, ever}' motion of the strange visitor. That the stranger did not relish the presence of the dog was soon evident from his uneasiness. That Mrs. Bacon did not relish the presence of the strange man was also clearly evident. As night approached, the man was informed that he could not be accommodated until morning, and, as several miles intervened until the nearest house was reached, that he would better be going on. He did not seem inclined to go, and to add to the alarm of Mrs. Bacon he asked one of the little bo3-s to turn the grindstone, while he sharpened his knife. He took his place in the cabin, and the woman, with the dog before her, sat down to watch and wait. As midnight approached, the stranger asked why she did not turn out the dog and go to bed. She replied, that the dog was allowed to sleep in the house. He then opened the -door and told the animal to go ; but the faithful creature, with a fierce growl, refused to move. The man seemed disappointed and sat down, and thus matters stood until morning, when the unwelcome guest departed and was seen no more. The family have ever since thought, that the presence of the dog alone saved Mrs. Bacon from insult or death, or perhaps both.

Wild animals, both fierce and dangerous, were often seen in the vicinity of the cabin. Wolves would approach in the night, attracted by the scent of meat, and howl dismally until the break of dawn. Deer were seen by the hundreds, and often came quite close to the cabin. On one occasion, in broad daylight, a bear came quickly from the woods near the cabin, and, seizing a half-grown hog, carried it bodily off into the woods, where it was partly devoured and left. Mr. Bacon obtained a few sheep at quite an earl}' day, but they were found to be more bother than they were worth. One day a pack of wolves got after them, when they ran into the cabin, and were saved for that time. Mr. Bacon was the only inhabitant until June, 1810, when Jeremiah Cranmer, Mr. Bacon's brother-in-law, arrived, and built a cabin on Lot 72, within half a mile of the cabin of the former. During the excitement occasioned by the war of 1812, Bacon and Cranmer made preparations to take their families and seek the protection of the more populous settlement at Hudson. While the preparations were in progress, an Indian was seen skulking in the woods near, and was told that if he valued his scalp he had better depart without dela}'. He departed. After the}' had started, a report reached them that there was no danger, whereupon they returned, though they kept up an anxious watch for several weeks afterward. Mi*. Bacon was drafted and ordered to Cleveland, but was soon afterward discharged and sent home. Here, in November, 1812, he was taken sick and died, and was buried on Tinker's Creek. Prior to this sad event, the Bacon family had, in 1808, lost an infant daughter, her death being the first in the township.

In 1813, Abraham Cranmer appeared and bought the north half of Lot 72. His cabin was built with the assistance of Bacon and Jeremiah Cranmer, and his family made as comfortable as possible. In June of the same year, a young man named Henry Wood, one who was destined to play an important part in the affairs of Northfield, came to the township. While here, he won the affections of Estber, daughter of Jeremiah Cranmer, who accepted his proposal, and the}' were married September 22, 1813, at the residence of the bi'ide's father. This was the first wedding in Northfield. Henry Wood was in the war of 1812, and in his compan}' were Henry Post, who acted as Orderl}' Sergeant ; Abner Robinson, the poet of Boston, and Jonathan Williams, the latter serving in the capacity of scout. The company went west as far as Sandusky, but did not see any active service. It was Henry Wood who, in passing a small creek in the township, and seeing several small parties of Indians encamped thereon, called it Indian Creek, a name it yet retains in honor of this man, who is yet living at the unusual age of ninety-one years. Mr. Wood often had hogs killed by the bears. It is related by him that on one occasion, he owned one shoat in a lot of sixteen, which ran wild in the forest. Hearing loud squealing one night, he took his rifle and hurried out to ascertain the cause, whereupon he found that his pig had been selected out of the herd, and carried off by a large bear. The squealings at a distance in the dai'k forest disclosed its fate.

In 1814, George Wallace came to Brand}^- wine, and built a saw-mill. A relative of his named John Menough took charge of the mill, and Mr. Wallace returned to Cleveland, and did not bring his family out until 1818. In 1815, Robert Wallace came on with his fjimily, and built a small log cabin at Brandywine. It is said that this village and the creek of the same name were named by John Menough, after the historical stream in the East, where Gen. Washington fought a severe battle during the Revolution. In March, 1817, Henry Wood,

John Duncan, Maurice Cranmer and a few other families moved into the township. There also came in, prior to 1819, William Cranney, William Mather, Abel Havens, Abner Hunt, Daniel Robertson, Edward Coyne, John Britt and Shubael Austin. The following is taken from the township records :

" At a meeting of the qualitied electors of the township of Northfield on the 24th of May, 1819, the following officers were elected for the occasion : John Britt, Moderator ; Jeremiah Cranmer and John Duncan, Judges ; Orrin Wilcox, Clerk. After the officers had been duly sworn, the following township elections were made : Henry Wood, Clerk ; George Wallace, Jeremiah Cranmer and John Duncan, Trustees ; William Cranney and William Mather, Overseers of the Poor ; Robert Wallace and Maurice Cranmer, Fence Viewers ; Watrous Mather, Treasurer ; John Duncan, Abel Havens, Daniel Robertson and Abner Hunt, Supervisors of Highways ; Edward Coyne and Abraham Cranmer, Constables." Mr. Wood, who is yet living, says that this first election was held at the cabin of William Cranney. He also says that just before the township received its name, the settlers, who had assembled to erect a log house near the cemetery, began to suggest names. Mr. Wood wanted it called " York." Other names were suggested by several parties, among which was "Northfield," by Jeremiah Cranmer. A vote was taken on the various names suggested, and -'Northfield" was selected. The following is quoted from the records : " Poll Book of Northjield, Portage County, Ohio, October 12, 1819 - Jeremiah Cranmer, (xeorge Wallace and John Duncan, Judges of Election, and Henry Wood and John Britt, Clerks. Number and names of electors on this day : Abraham Cranmer, Abel Havens, Jeremiah Cranmer, John Duncan. Shubael Austin, George Wallace, John Britt, Henry Wood, Robert Wallace and Edward Coyne - in all ten. Names of persons voted for and for what offices, containing the number of votes cast for each candidate : For Convention, 1 ; against Convention, 8. For Senator, Almon Ruggles, 7 ; William Whitmore, 1. For Representative, Samuel King, 10. For County Commissioner, Stephen Woodward, 8 ; Rial McArthur, 2." The ten electors just mentioned were not all there were in the township, and yet there were but few others. The following oflScers were elected April 3, 1820, as shown by the records : Henry Wood, Clerk ; John Duncan, Maurice Cranmer and A. Cranmer, Trustees ; Amos Richardson and Nathaniel Parsons, Overseers of the Poor ; Edward Coyne and Abner Hunt, Fence Viewers ; Dorsey Viers, Isaac Lake, A. S. Honey and Robert Richardson, Supervisors of Highways ; William Cranney and Robert Mendal. Constables ; William Mather. Treasurer. Three weeks later, another election was held for the purpose of electing two Justices of the Peace, resulting as follows : George Wallace and Wm. D. Mather. At this election, there were twentysix votes polled. The following items, which are deemed worthy of preservation, are taken from the records, which are fast falling into pieces : " State of Ohio, Portage County, Northfield Township : To the Constable of said Township, Greeting : Abraham Cranmer, Constable : You are commanded to warn Huldah Seeley out of said township forthwith, by the order of the Trustees and of the Poor Masters for said township, and to cany her to the Constable of Independence Township, or Newburg, Cuyahoga County, Ohio. Of this writ make legal service and due return. Given under our hands and seals, this 2d day of June, 1819. George Wallace and J. Cranmer, Trustees ; W. D. Mather and William Cranney, Jr., Poor Masters. Personally served by me, Abraham Cranmer, Constable." It is told by way of joke in Northfield, that Mr. Cranmer, the Constable, not knowing how to dispose of his charge, Huldah Seeley, finally took her on horseback to Newburg, where he left her, his idea being that the law would be best subserved by removing her as far as possible from the township.

In 182G, there were thirty-nine householders in Northfield, and the following year there were forty-seven, as follows : George Phipps, Abner Hunt, Electa Dewey, Casper Noel, David Bowersmith, William Barkhamer, Widow Lesley, Daniel Croninger, Paul H. Beard, George Hills, Jonathan Pike, Jeremiah Cranmer, William Cliflbrd, A. B. Cranmer, Levi Leach, D. C. Bacon, Henry Hopkins, William Cranney, H. Bump, Dorsey W. Viers, Sally Pritchard, Henry Croninger, Thomas Hills, Shubael Austin, John Wilson, Daniel Stanley, Thomas Appleton. Elizabeth Richardson, John Jones, Maurice Cranmer, A. D. Havens, Abraham Cranmer, Chester Northrup, John Duncan, Thomas McKee, Robert Guy, William Guy, Allen Burroughs, George

By this time, the township was almost as well settled and improved as it is at present. But we must go back and trace the growth of industries, etc. As was before stated, George Wallace erected a saw-mill on Brandywine Creek ; and this mill, until Lots 19 and 40, of Boston, were attached to Northfleld, was in the former township. It was a frame mill, and was located on the creek where an abrupt fall of about ten feet gave an excellent and enduring water-power. It was built in 1814, and, in the following 3'ear, a grist-mill was built on the opposite side of the fall. This mill was a threestoried, frame structure, and is 3-et standing, being in a fair state of preservation. About the same time that the grist-mill was erected, a distillery was built back some distance on the farm, and given in charge of Allen Burris, a practical distiller. It disposed of some twelve bushels of grain dail}', and turned out in the same time between thirt}- and forty gallons of excellent whisky. The old account-books of Mr. Wallace are yet in existence, and reveal that, not onl}^ was whisky used b}^ ever}' one, including ministers (and perhaps abstainers), but was used extensively as an article of exchange, serving the purpose almost as well as bank notes. Almost every entry involves the word " whisk}'." John Menough, who owned a third or a half interest in the grist-mill, was the miller, and operated it for many years. Robert Wallace owned an interest in the saw-mill, and was the sawyer until the mills were given into other hands. The distillery was conducted until about 1830, when it was abandoned. The saw-mill was operated, with several change of owners, until about the year 1851. The gristmill is yet running. Mr. Wallace built a woolenfactory near the mills in 1821. During the first year of its operation, nothing was attempted, except wool-carding and cloth-dressing ; but the following year, and for many years thereafter, the whole process of carding and spinning and weaving and dressing was conducted on an extensive scale, and a fine income realized. This was, perhaps, the most important industry ever in Northampton. At one time, the factory, the grist-mill, the store, the saw-mill and the distilleiy were all in operation, and. as these various industries required the assistance of from twelve to twenty employes, the extent and importance of these eflbrts in the backwoods can be plainly seen. It is stated that, in about 181G, the village of Brandywine rivaled the village of Cleveland. But all has not yet been told. In 1816, Mr. Wallace sent some $1,600 worth of goods to the village, and placed them in an apartment that had been set oflf" for that purpose in the second story of the grist-mill. James, the son of George Wallace, was placed in the store to dispose of the goods. He had come from Cleveland with the teamster who brought the goods. The wagon moved very slowly through the muddy roads, and, as night was fiist coming on when they reached the northern part of the township, the boy James concluded he would hurry ahead, and reach home before the teamster. He was walking on quite rapidly, guided by the obscure markings of the winding road, when suddenly he was startled by a large deer which bounded across the path but a few yards in front of him. Almost at the same instant, he heard a loud crashing in the bushes close by, and a moment later a large, dark animal came swiftly into the path before him. The terrified boy saw that the animal was a large bear, and, though his blood froze in his veins, he determined not to run. But the bear, with scarcely a moment's hesitation, and without paying the slightest attention to the cowering boy. continued its headlong pursuit after the deer. The boy was so terrified that he ran on for several miles, when, reaching the cabin of a settler near Brandywine. he prevailed upon some of the boys to accompany him until he reached the village. It is scarcely necessary to add that the various pursuits thus begun at Brandywine w'ere the means of bringing to the neighborhood numerous families of settlers, and soon the place had all the appearance of a thriving village. In 1825, all tliat portion of the property owned by George "\\'allace fell to the ownership of James Wallace, his son, who is yet living, at a hale old age, near Macedonia. A year later. Robert Wallace also secured an interest in ihe various pursuits, and then the business firm was Wallace Brotliers. In 1843, a remarkable flood occurred, which swept the factory away, scattering the debris for miles along the banks, and badly injuring the gristmill. This, however, was immediately repaired, but the factory was not rebuilt. After this, the property gradually fell into other hands, and its former usefulness was greatly impaii'ed. The firm of Wallace & Wallace opened a store at the village in about 184-i, and carried a stock of some $2,000 worth of goods for ten or twelve years. This storehouse is now used as a dwelling. In about 1822, George Wallace succeeded in getting a post office established at Brandywine. Mr. Wallace was appointed Postmaster. The village at its best contained some ten or twelve families.

The village of Little York has had a less eventful history. In about 1825, Henry Post built a saw-mill on the site of the village. He did not own the land, but -'squatted" there for the purpose of sawing lumber. His mill was operated b}' water-power, partly by natural facilities and partlj' by artificial. There was at that point a heavy forest of whitewood, which at that time was greatly in demand for boats on the canal, and for vessels on Lake Erie. The mill was enabled to run some eight months of the year, and, for six years, Mr. Post did an extensive and profitable business. George Leach then got possession of the mill, and, as the dam was a cheap aflTair and liable to be washed away by the first freshet, a larger and stronger one was built in the same place. This man continued many 3'ears, and, at times, did an enormous amount of work, operating two saws, and shipping by canal large quantities of oak, maple and whitewood lumber to Cleveland. In the early history of the village, a blacksmith, a shoemaker, a tanner and a few other tradesmen and mechanics located there. This has been about the extent of the rise and fall of Little York.

The first building at the Center was very likely a schoolhouse, built as early as 1825.* Hezekiah H. Palmer erected the first dwelling. This was a round-log cabin, about thirty feet square, built in 1832, and divided by partitions into bedrooms and sitting-rooms. A 3'ear later, George Lillie built the second dwelling, and, soon afterward, Lucien Bliss, the third. All these were rough log cabins, hastil}' constructed, and, from their external appearance, it was evident that the architect was inferior in point of genius to Michael Angelo, or, perhaps, he thought that the more beautiful products of his skill could and would not be appreciated in the forest. At all events, the buildings were neither models of architectural beauty and precision, nor equal in point of sumptuousness to Aladdin's palace. However, the families seemed to enjoy life just as well as they whose habitations were superior and more elegant. During the same year, 1833, or perhaps the following spring. Col. Milton Arthur built a storeroom which is now a part of an outhouse belonging to Mr. McConnell. Arthur placed in this storeroom some $500 worth of goods, consisting of a general assortment that had been purchased at Cleveland. The store did not amount to much, but was an accommodation to those living in the vicinit3f and was well patronized. A few years later, B. F. Cannon placed a small stock of goods in another building, but, after a short time, sold out to Hosea and Lucien Bliss, who increased the stock somewhat. Soon after the Bliss brothers opened their store, Frank Allen built another building near by, and placed therein a small general assortment. After this, frequent changes were made in the merchants, none of whom remained any great length of time. The village was not a very lively trading-point. Many country stores were located in adjoining townships, and even in Northfield, and storekeepers, with a few fortunate exceptions, were compelled to continue, if at all, upon meager remuneration. However, there have been some good stores in the village. After Frank Allen and the Bliss Brothers, the following merchants have held forth at various times in about the order given : Warner Wallace, Mr. Putnam, Woodman & Howe, James McElroy, Nelson Decker, M. O'Neil, S. K. Alexander, Lyon & Logue and J. G. Alexander, the present merchant. The most of these men kept ordinar}' country stores, including limited dealings in all the various kinds of country produce. It was usual to accumulate a considerable quantity of the latter, which was then conveyed to some shipping-point and sent off for foreign consumption. Other industries have existed for short periods in the village. Bliss & Taubman (the latter being an experienced tailor), opened a clothing store soon after. Ready-made clothing was kept, and suits of every description were made to order on short notice.

In 1841, 0. A. Bishop built a tavern which was thrown open for the entertainment of the public the same year. The building is now used as a combined grocery and post office.

The tavern, which was located on the State road, did a good business until the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad was projected through the township, when it was closed for lack of custom. The first blacksmith in the village was a man named Phillips. Ambrose Bliss was the first carpenter. Dr. Hosea Bliss was the first resident physician. He became well known, and continued to practice his profession until five or six years ago. Dr. Hazleton appeared a number of j-ears later, and soon secured a lucrative practice. George Lillie was the first Postmaster, receiving his commission in about 1836, the office having been removed from Brand3wine to the Center. In about the 3'ear 1840, George Lillie, Hezekiah Palmer, Lucien Bliss and Col. Ai'thur, each of whom owned a corner at the cross-roads, threw out half an acre of land each for a public square. This square is yet sacred to the use of the public, and is likely to remain so. The village has not been regularly' surveyed and platted, the lots being laid off and sold as calls are made for them. Perhaps the greatest population the village has had at any one time has been about seventy-five.

It is proper at this point to narrate an occurrence which took place in the township at an early day, and which, from its peculiarity, deserves preservation. We quote as follows from Gen. L. V. Bierce : " An Englishman named Rupert Charlesworth, who was boarding with Dorsey Viers in 1826, suddenly and mysteriously disappeared. He was traced to the cabin of Viers on the night of the 23d of July, but on the following morning when a Constable went there to arrest him, he was gone, and no trace of him could be found. On the arrival of the Constable Mrs. Viers was found mopping up the floor. Questions were asked, but Mr. Viers told contradictor}- stories as to the disappearance of the man. alleging in one instance that he jumped out of the window and ran off and could not be caught, and in another, that he left when Viers was asleep, and the latter knew nothing of his whereabouts. A few days later, some one announced having heard the report of a rifle at Vier's cabin the night of the man's disappearance, and of having seen blood on a pair of bars which led from the cabin to the woods. Years rolled on, and the excitement grew stronger with age, until, on the 8th of January, 1831, complaint was entered before George Y. Wallace, Justice of the Peace, that Viers had murdered Charlesworth. Viers was arrested, and a trial of eight days followed. Not only were the circumstances above narrated proved, but a hired girl who was working for Viers at the time of the man's disappearance swore that a bed blanket used by Charlesworth was missing from the cabin on the day of his departure, and that it was afterward found concealed under a haystack, with large black spots on it, resembling dried and clotted blood. It was also proved that Charlesworth had a large amount of money, and that Viers was, previous to the disappearance of the man. comparatively poor, but immediately afterward was flush of mone^^ To complete the chain of circumstantial evidence, a human skeleton had been found concealed under a log in the woods, beyond the bars already mentioned. Matters were in this shape when two men from Sandusky unexpectedly appearejl and swore that the}^ had seen Charlesworth alive and well after the time of the supposed murder, though when seen he was passing under an assumed name. On this testimony Viers was acquitted, liut his acquittal did not change public sentiment as to his guilt. It was generally believed that the witnesses had been inducted to perjure themselves. Viers, however, did not let the matter rest at this stage. He began a vigorous and protracted search for the missing man, and continued it with unwavering perseverance. He visited all parts of the Union, and, after a search of years, he one day went into a tavern at Detroit, and in the presence of a large assemblage of men, inquired if an}' one knew of a man named Charlesworth. x\ll replied no. Just as he was about to leave, a man stepped up to him, and, taking him to one side, inquired if his name was Viers, from Northfield. Viers replied that it was. The stranger then said, 'lam Rupert Charlesworth. but I pass here under an assumed name.' Charlesworth was informed of all that had taken place, and he immediately volunteered to go to Northfield and have the matter cleared up. On their arrival, a meeting of the township was called, and after a thorough investigation it was the unanimous vote, with one exception, that the man alleged to have been murdered now stood alive before them. It appears that he had passed a counterfeit $10 bill on Deacon Hud- son, and fearing an arrest he left the cabin of Viers suddenly, and soon afterward went to England, where he remained two years, at the end of which time he returned to the United States under an assumed name, and went into the backwoods of Michigan, where his real name, former residence and liistory were unknown. Tlie name of the family was thus, almost b}' accident, cleared of infamy and shame. This renuirkable case is rivalled only b}' the celebrated case of the Bournes in Vermont.''

*- A more tragic affair occurred in Northtield, on the 24th of July, 1837. On the night of that date, some person or persons entered the house of Robert McKisson, a respected citizen of the township, and with an ax struck Mrs. McKisson as she lay on the bed, splitting, or rather hewing, the right side of her head nearl}' away, and leaving the brain exposed or scattered upon the bedding. Lucinda Croninger, Mrs. McKisson's daughter by a former husband, lying on an adjoining bed, hearing the confusion, raised up and sci'eamed, but was instantly knocked down, senseless, with the ax. An alarm was given by some other member of the familj', and the murderer made off. The neighbors collected and obtained from Mrs. McKisson, who, a few hours later, died, the statement that the murder had been committed by her father-in-law, Samuel McKisson. This was the d^'ing declaration of the murdered woman, and the testimony of the daughter at the trial. Samuel McKisson was arrested that night at his own house. Suspicion immediately attached to David McKisson, a brother-inlaw of the murdered woman, who had been paying his addresses to the daughter, but who had been refused admission to the house by the mother. He had been lurking around for several days, during which time he had obtained several interviews with Miss Croninger, in one of which they exchanged rings. A few minutes after the murder, a person was heard running past a house toward the canal from the direction of the McKisson cabin. The next morning, at daylight, he was seen on the canal, about three miles from the place, getting a passage to Cleveland. A few days later, he was arrested on the Government works at the mouth of Maumee Bay, with the blood still on his shirt-sleeves. The father and son were indicted for murder by the grand jury in September, 1837, and soon afterward tried. The father was acquitted, but the son was convicted of murder in the first degree, and, on the 9th of February, 1838, was executed at Ravenna." Abraham Cranmer, in 1824, built the first house in Macedonia. It was a hewed-log building, with the usual inconveniences and lack of attractions, and was located in the northeastern part of the village. This house stood until 1854, when it was taken down. Edwin Hutchinson built the second, just above the church, in about 1831. About this time, or soon afterward, George Shattuck and Erastus Beldin also built dwellings at the village. All these buildings were of logs, and some persons have insisted that the three buildings last referred to were probably erected some four years sooner than as stated above. The above, however, is given on the authorit}' of Mrs. (Cranmer) Munn, who was living in the village with her father, Abraham Cranmer, at the time, and who is probably not mistaken. Several other dwellings were erected soon afterward, and the citizens then began to suspect that a village was springing up around them. A few mechanics and tradesmen appeared, but no stock of goods was bi'ought to the village until 1852, when Odell, Price & Co. placed about $4,000 worth in a storeroom that had been built by John Odell the year before. This partnership began a brisk business, selling or exchanging their goods to the surrounding country, and shipping farm produce, including eggs, butter and cheese, to Cleveland. The quantity of cheese handled by this firm was remarkable. They began slowl}^, like cautious and experienced merchants, feeling their way, until at last all hesitancy was thrown aside, from the steady condition of the market, and enormous quantities of cheese were purchased and shipped to Cincinnati and other points. The cheese and butter products of sixty dairies were handled by the partnership. Each dairy avei'aged one cheese of twenty- pounds" weight dail)', making, in all, 1,200 pounds that were shipped away each day, from the 1st of May until the middle of September. When the number of days are considered, it will be seen that about 175,000 pounds of cheese were shipped from Macedonia each season. During the same period, flft)' pounds of butter were received daily from these dairies, and shipped oflF with the cheese, making a total of about 7,000 pounds handled per annum. In 1854, this firm was succeeded by Odell & Co., who conducted the same business even more extensive ly than the former firm. Either goods or money were given for butter and cheese. Two years later, Odell & O'Neil took charge of the business, but, at the end of about eight months, the senior partner bought the junior's interest, and conducted the business alone until July, 1857, when he failed and closed out his stock. Archibald Nesbitt took up the broken threads of this trade in 1858, and conducted a fair business until about the time the last war commenced. After this, for a few 3'ears, the storeroom was vacant. Michael O'Neil was in for a few months, during the latter part of the war. In 1866, Sage & Hine opened with a small stock, and, a year later, Hine sold his interest to Chamberlain, and, in 1869, Sage also sold to Chamberlain ; but, soon afterward, Darling & Drennan took charge of the store, increasing the stock until it was valued at $5,200, and handling, at the same time, the cheese of two factories. Lewis Lemoin became owner in the spring of 1875, but sold out at the end of a year to J. C. Johnson, who continued until the spring of 1879, when S. M. Ranney & Co. took possession and have continued since. It would seem by the constant change of ownei's, that the merchants were either novices at their calling, or that the mercantile pursuit in the village was as uncertain as it was unprofitable and unsatisfactory. Probably both of these reasons have contributed to the failures. O'Neil & Wilcox opened a store, with $800 worth of goods, in 1854, but, soon afterward, O'Neil sold his interest to his partner, who, a year or two later, failed with maledictions on his lips. Marvin Ford sold groceries for a short time about 1865. Lewis Lemoin bought him out, and after continuing eight months, with Palmer as his partner part of the time, sold his share to Mr. Stone, the latter selling to Alton Griswold a year later. In 1870, Palmer sold to Griswold, and, four years later, the latter sold an interest to L. L. Palmer, who, at the end of a year, bought his partner's share, and continued alone until 1878, when the present firm of Munn Brothers assumed ownership. Merchants of Macedonia have surely experienced a checkered career. They spring up from all quarters, like mushrooms from a hot-bed.

L. Gr. Odell was the first Postmaster, receiving his commission in 1852. Zedick Everest built an ashery in 1844, and continued the manufacture of potash until 1858, turning out a ton a week the year round, the most of the time he conducted the business. When the woolen factory at Brandywine was swept away in 1843, David Armstead and Carl Storrs bought a portion of the machinery, and immediately thereafter erected a fine saw-mill at Macedonia. They owned and operated the mill until 1852, when Alexander Nesbitt bought them out, and four years later a man named Griffith became owner. Stone & Buswell owned and operated it during the war, and did an enormous business. They sawed vast quantities of car and wagon lumber from oak, ash, maple and black walnut, which was shipped by rail to Cleveland. They made their fortunes and sold out when the war ended. Since then Woodbury, Lemoin, Barnum and others have owned the mill. Shields & Chapin have owned it since 1872, and are at present doing a large business for the car manufacture at Cleveland. David Armstead built a hotel in 1840. The -Riley House " was built seven years ago.*

It is probable, though not certain, that the first term of school was taught at Brandywine. A log schoolhouse was built there as early as 1817, and a Mr. Stiles was employed to teach the few children then in the village. He kept irregular hours and was paid at the rate of about $1 per scholar for the term. He taught several terms, prior to 1820, in the same house, which was occupied until about 1830, when a frame schoolhouse was built across the road opposite the old one. This building was used many years, and, though silent and deserted at present, is yet standing, a relic of pioneer times. The old log schoolhouse at Brandywine was well attended from 1820 to 1830. The children within a radius of several miles were sent to it without regard to township lines ; for it made little difference whence they came, provided they paid promptly their allotted subscription. Children from up nearly to the center were given their first schooling in this house, while, also, many of those who had attended the Stanford School while the old log schoolhouse was standing there, were sent to Brand3'wine when it was taken down. Everybody at that time looked upon Brandywine as an unusually prom- ising village, and for many years it was the center of education, religion and industry. The place was deemed so important, that its being situated partly in Boston and partly in Northfield was regarded as a drawback to its improvement and growth, and the result was that through the influence of the Wallaces and others, two lots were severed from Boston and attached to Northfield. The following action was also taken by the Trustees of the two townships at a joint meeting : The second school district in the Township of Northfield is this day annexed to the second fractional school district in the Township of Boston, by the Trustees of the said townships. December 1, 1827."

It is thought by several, that the first school in the township was taught in the Bacon neighborhood. It will be remembered that, in 1815, there were several families living there, each of which comprised several children. Henry Wood, whose memory is now slowly failing him on account of age, but who is probably correct, says that school was taught prior to 1 81 7 in a vacated log dwelling known as the Rowley house. If this be true, it was the first in Northfield. A man named King was the first, or one of the first three or four who taught there. In about 1818 or 1819, a log schoolhouse was built within a quarter of a mile of the cemetery which lies half a mile north of the Center. Henry Wood was one of the first teachers in this house. This was used until not far from 1825, when a schoolhouse was built at the Center, and another about two miles northwest of the Center. The following action taken from the records was probably the first relating to the division of the township into school districts : " At a meeting of the Trustees of Northfield on April 12, 1826, for the purpose of dividing the township into school districts, the following division was made : Commencing at the northwest corner of said township, thence south to the center line of said township, thence east along said center line to the road running north and south through the center of said township, thence south along said road to the south line of Lot 7, thence east along said line to the east line of said township, thence north to the northeast corner of said township, thence west to the place of beginning - said district containing twenty-four householders, and to be known as

No. 1. Also, commencing on the east line of said township and running east along the center line to the center road running north and south through said township, thence south along said road to the south line of Lot 47, thence east along said line to the east line of said township, thence south along said line to the north line of Boston, thence west along said line to the Cuyahoga River, thence north to the place of beginning - said district containing fifteen householders, and to be known as No. 2." The following is also quoted from the records : " We, the Directors, Maurice Cranmer and Levi Leach, do agree to have two schools in District No. 1, to the best advantage of the inhabitants, and the public monc}' to be divided to the number of scholars each school affords as one school, April 5, 1828." This division was formally made on the 3d of the following Ma}^, the two districts thus formed being designated 1 and 8. Prior to the division of 182G, the township schools had been supported wholly b}^ subscription. The houses had been built by everybody without regard to public or individual expense. The one built at the Center, as previously stated, was used until 1835, when a frame structure was erected to take its place, and was used until two years ago. Robert Smith, afterward School Examiner, taught a select school in the Putnam storeroom after the latter sold out. He taught several terms of excellent school. He also taught in the town hall, which was built in 1848. Rev. Andrews also taught a select school in the Presbyterian Church. Esther Cranmer taught the first school in Macedonia. She went to Hudson for her certificate, and was examined in geography, reading writing, spelling and arithmetic by Lawyers Humphrey and Kirkham. She taught a summer school of four months, and received ten shillings per week, and boai'ded around. This school was taught in about the year 1833. The old house was soon disused and a new one built, and another has taken the place of the place of the last. There are now seven school districts in Northfield.

There are four churches in the township. For many years prior to 1831, Methodists, Presbyterians, Baptists and Seceders held meetings in dwellings and schoolhouses, yet, so far as known, no society was regularl}' organized until the year mentioned. From Mrs. Bacon we learn that the Methodists organized a society on the 21st of Juh-, 1831, with the following members : Abner Hurt, Charles Leader, Caleb Brown (the first minister), Betsey Hurt, Jeremiah Cranraer and wife, David C. Bacon and wife, Daniel S. Stanley and wife, Abram Cranmer and daughter Esther, William Guy and his mother, Mrs. Duncan, Morris Cranmer and wife, Lyman Richardson, and one other whose name is forgotten, making eighteen members. The minister. Rev. Mr. Brown, preached his first sermon from the text, " Why halt ye between two opinions ?" etc. The society worshiped in a log schoolhouse at Northfield Center for some time, and in Mr. Stanle3''s house also. Mr. Brown, after organizing the church, preached but twice before going to Conference. He was succeeded by Revs. Alfred Bronson and John J. Steedman. The circuit at that time included Cu3'ahoga Falls, Ravenna, etc. The surviving members of the first organization are Mrs. Jane C. Bacon and Esther Cranmer, now Mrs. Munn. Mrs. Bacon remembers a camp-meeting held in August, 1832, the next 3'ear after the formation of the church in Northfield, over in Hudson Township, at which Mr. Steedman preached one night from the text, " And at midnight there was a cry made. Behold, the bridegroom cometli ; go ye out to meet him." During the .sermon a most terrific thunder-storm came up, and as the people sought shelter in their tents, the minister took the opportunity' to make the storm an application of his argument - that if they did not have refuge in Christ, etc., etc., and following the application, he commenced singing in a tremendous voice the h^mn beginning - *

The whole scene made a lasting impression upon the congregation, and was the means of starting a great revival, which continued throughout the meeting.

About the year 1836, the societj' built a church edifice. There were several members who lived at Macedonia, which led to the organization of a separate society there, and the use of the church at that place, or perhaps its undivided ownership was thus secured. This church was built in about 1835 by people who held a variety of religious opinions, among whom perhaps the Free- Will Baptists predominated. One of the greatest revivals ever in Northfield was conducted at Macedonia, in the old log schoolhouse, b}^ Rev. Mr. Worrellow. It lasted five weeks, and sixty-five were converted, a portion of whom joined the Free-Will Baptists, others the Methodists, and still others the Presbyterians. The first services held by the Presbyterians in Northfield were by Rev. Mr. Hanford, who came over from Hudson and preached occasionally. A church was built by this denomination in 1834, which was used until about thirt}- years ago, when the present one was built. Among the earl}- members of this church were A. Chapin, John and Matthew Wilson, Levi Taylor, Mrs. Ozmun, Mr. Hall and others. A Congi'egational society was early organized, mainly through the influence of the Taylors. A small church was built by them about the year 184-1. Most of this societ}^, however, eventually united with the Presbyterians, and their church, which was thus left vacant, was used a few times in which to hold select schools, and was then fitted up for a dwelling, and is still used as such. The following has been handed us b}' Rev. J. W. Logue, of Northfield : -- The earliest members of the First United Presbyterian Church of this township came from Ligonier Valley, Penn., in 1831. These and a few others that came in a short time afterward, numbering in all foui'teen souls, formed themselves into a church society in 1833 by the election of William Lemmon, Ruling Elder. A short time afterward John Nesbitt, Jacob- Leslie and John Phillips were elected to serve in the same capacity. Their first communion was held in a schoolhouse in the vicinity, the above number of communicants uniting with them. Their first settled minister was Rev. Joseph Banks, who commenced his ministry among them in 1834, remaining some five years. Their first church building was a comfortable frame house, about 35x45 feet, and was erected in 1837 at a cost of about $1,000, and located near the center of Northfield. Their second settled minister was Rev. James W. Logue, who began his labors among them in 1843, and has continued until the present time. Their second church is a commodious frame building, about 40x60 feet, tastefully constructed and furnished at a cost of some $8,000. It was erected in 1871 on the site of the former one. This church, the strongest in the township, is strongly Calvinistic in its principles. It took an early and leading part in the anti-slaver}' reformation in this community, and has always been active in all moral reforms.'"

In 1864, a cornet band was- organized in the township, composed of the following members : Thomas W. Kichey, William F. Drennen, Milton A. Van Horn, Joseph Wilson, L. Bliss, J. Gr. Alexander, George Eichey and Charles Peck. These members, with their own means, purchased a set of second-hand brass instruments, and their subsequent efforts were crowned with moderate success. The band continued thus, with some changes, until 1872, when, through the efforts of A. W. Bliss and the liberality of many citizens of the township, a set of fine new silver instruments was purchased at a cost of $841. This was sufficient to lirouse the mem- i bers of the band to their greatest efforts, and the surrounding hills and dales echoed with music as sweet as that of Orpheus. Perhaps, also, the birds of the air, the fish in the streams, the wild beasts of the forest, and even the trees, rocks and hills, gathered around to hear the divine strains. The members of the band shared a fate almost as sorrowful as that of Orpheus. Three years after their new instruments were purchased, they disbanded, and their delicious music died out in plaintive echoes. In 1877, a new band was organized, composed in part of members of the former band. This is yet in existence. The members have furnished themselves with new brass instruments, and have recently made their appearance in a bright new uniform. The present members are George Bliss, Isaac Buskirk, Charles Peck, Frank Brower, John N. McConnell, Cass Proctor, J. L. Ranney, Henry Nesbitt, L. E. Stanley, W. Tj. Palmer, Frank Buggies and Will Howe. The band is a credit to the township, and should be encouraged in a hearty and substantial manner.

A Lecture Association was organized in Northfield in the winter of 1878, of which the folio wingwere the six original members : M. A. Van Horn, Dr. R. S. Hubbard, Lorin Bliss, G. M. Seidell, J. G. Alexander, Jo Harter, and afterward B. A. Bobinotte was added. The first officers were M. A. Van Horn, President ; J. G. Alexander, Secretary ; Dr. R. S. Hubbard, Corresponding Secretary, and G. M. Seidell, Treasurer. It began as a matter of experiment, and they hired their own lecturers, for which they paid out of their individual pockets. It proved a success. Lectures were held on Thursdaj' evenings of each week, alternating in the different churches. The association has become self-sustaining by the sale of family tickets, memberships, etc., and is apparently- on a firm basis. The pi-esent officers are Jo Harter, President ; B. A. Bobinette, Vice President ; Dr. R. S. Hubbard, Corresponding Secretary ; Lorin Bliss, Assistant Corresponding Secretary : J. G. Alexander, Secretarv and Treasurer.

NORTON TOWNSHll' - ITS PHYSK'AL FEATURES - COMING OF TFIE WHITES - PIONEER INDUSTRIES - GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT - VILLAGES - CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS.

TOWNSHIP was originally .jJN known as Town 1, Range 12, and was a a part of Wolf Creek Township, which comprised all that territory now known as Norton and Copley, in Summit Countv, and Wadsworth, Sharon, Guilford and Montville, in Medina County. Wolf Creek Township was organized in 1816, and, at an election held in April of that year, at the house of Philemon Kirkham, which stood on Lot 11, in Norton, Henry Van Hyning, Sr., and Salmon Warner were chosen the first Justices of the Peace. Van H3'ning lived on Lot 19, and Warner, just across the line in what is now Wadsworth Township. Philemon Kirkham was elected Town Clerk ; Nathan Bates, Jacob Miller and Abraham Van Hyning were elected Trustees. Twenty-two votes were polled at this first election in a precinct whose boundaries inclosed 150 square miles. In 1818, Norton Township was organized, with its boundaries the same as at pi'esent. It had been surve3'ed eight or nine years previous to this by Joseph Darrow and others, and platted into lots half a mile square, numbering from one to one hundred, and beginning in the northwest corner of the township, numbering fi'om the west to east, thus : the west lots were 1, 11, 21, 31, 41, 51, 61, 71, 81, 91, to the southwest corner. It is bounded on the north bj- Copley ; on the east by Coventry, part of which boundary is marked b}^ the Tuscarawas River ; on the south l)y Franklin and Chippewa, and on the west by Wadsworth. Norton is not exactly five miles square, as are most of the townsliips on the Western Reserve, the reason for which we will endeavor to show. That part of the Reserve lying east of the Cuyahoga River, Portage Path and Tuscarawas Branch of the Muskingum was acquired of the Indians by the treaty of Fort Mcintosh in 1785. It was surveyed in the years 1796 and 1797, by running the base line of forty-one degrees north latitude through from the Pennsylvania line to the Tuscarawas, where a mark was made on a tree, " 56m," meaning fifty-six miles from the Pennsylvania line. This made eleven ranges and one mile over on the base line. The territory west of Cuyahoga River, Portage Path and Tuscarawas River was not ceded b}- the Indians until the treaty of Fort Industry, in 1805, after which the balance of the Reserve was survej^ed, and that part of Range 12, Town 1, or Norton, lying east of the Tuscarawas, having been annexed to Range 11, Town 1, years before, was never transferred. An incident which occurred at the time the survey was made will not be out of place. Squire David Hudson, of the town of Hudson, being one of the original owners of Norton Township, concluded to go down and see how the land which he owned lay ; and also to ascertain how the survey was moving along. Arriving in Norton, he accompanied the surveying party several days, and, one day while looking around through the forest, he became detached from the rest of the part}' and partially lost, or at least did not know which direction to take to find his companions. The surveyors did not miss him until they heard some one making a terrible noise a little distance off, and at once made their way to the spot from which the sounds came. Here they found Hudson, with his arms closel}^ clinging to a tree, which he was vainly trying to climb, and calling lustily for some one to -' Shoot the bear ! " It seems he had happened to surprise an old she bear and two cubs, which took to their heels as soon as they saw him, being as much frightened as the Squire himself was. It is reported that he kept close to the surveying party after this.

This township is drained by the Wolf Creek and its tributaries. Wolf Creek enters the township from the north, in Lot 7, takes a southerly course in general, and empties into the Tuscarawas River from Lot 88. Its chief tributaries are (beginning at the north) Pigeon Creek, which enters the township from Copley in Lot 10, flows south and a little west of south through or across the corner of ]jots 10 and 20, and empties into Wolf Creek in Lot 19. Van Hyning Run, which rises in a marsh near the north line of the township in Lots 3 and 4, takes a southeasterly course through Lots 14, 15, 16, 26, 27, 37, 38, and empties into Wolf Creek on Lot 48. Hudson Run rises partly in Wadsworth Township, Medina County, and partly in Norton Township, flows southeasterly through Lots 21, 31, 32, 42, 43, 53, 54, 64, 65, 75, 76, 77, and empties into Wolf Creek on Lot 78, near Wolf Creek Lock. Silver Creek, a branch of the Chippewa River, drains a small portion of the southwest corner of the townsliip. Hubbard Run rises near Western Star, in Wadsworth Township, enters Norton in Lot 41 , takes an easterly course through Lots 51, 52, 62, 63, 53, and empties into Hudson Run on Lot 54. A small lake, called Davis Lake, in Lot 68, is the only lake in the township. It has no visible outlet, and is fed by springs, it is supposed, from the bottom. It is about a mile in circumference, and a pleasant spot. The bottom is sandy, and it is consequently a favorite resort during the summer months for bathing.

The soil in Norton Township is somewhat diversified. The extreme eastern portion, north and east of Wolf Creek, is inclined toward a sandy loam, in some parts more sandy than in others. This land is very easy to till, and with care brings abundant crops. The land l^ing adjacent to the Wolf Creek is of a loamy, mucky nature, and, when first turned up by the plow, resembles decayed vegetable matter, of which, indeed, it is largely composed. West and southwest of Wolf Creek, we find the soil contains more clay, but in places so mingled with gravel and loam as to make the best of soil for agricultural purposes.

Drainage is sufficient in all parts of Norton with the exception of the south half of the Wolf Creek bottoms and a portion of swamp lying partly in this township and partly in Copley. At the building of the Ohio Canal, the waters of Wolf Creek were taken to feed the canal below Wolf Creek Lock. This caused a stagnation in the last few miles of its flow, which is the source of a great deal of waste wet land, and that the ver}' richest soil in the township. The eastern part of the township is somewhat broken and hilly, although very little of it is so rough as not to be utilized. A ledge of sandstone just strikes the township on the northeast corner. Another ledge forms the Western boundary of the Wolf Creek bottoms, this last passing entirely through the township from north to south, and from one to two miles from the east line. This sandstone is quarried at several places, and makes the best of building stone. Among the quarries now open may be mentioned those of Shaw's, near Wolf Creek Lock ; Irish's, on Lot 47, and Miller's, on Lot 37. The principal productions of Norton Township are wheat, oats, corn and live stock and coal. This shows agriculture to be the chief occupation of the citizens. Considerable attention has been paid the past few years to the raising of stock. Some fine thoroughbred cattle are owned in the township. Among cattle-raisers, the name of A. D. Betz takes first rank, although others have made considerable advance toward fine stock. Norton has long been noted for its draft horses, and, at the fairs of the county, the farmers of Norton very rarely take the second place in the matter of horses. Norton is well supplied with villages, no less than seven being wholly or in part included in its territory. New Portage is situated near the east line of the township, and midway between the north and south lines, on Lots 50 and 60. Loyal Oak, in the north part of the township, about one and three-fourths miles from the center ; Western Star, partly in this and partly in Wadsworth Township, on the county line between Summit and Medina Counties, two and one-half miles west of Norton Center ; Dennison Station, one and one-half miles west and one mile south of Norton Center ; Johnson's Corners, one and one- half miles south of Norton Center ; Hametown, one and three-fourths miles southwest of Johnson's Corners, on the

Norton Township, as we have said, was Town 1, Range 12, in the Western Reserve, and at its formation was named after Birdsey Norton, one of the original owners of the township. It was formed into an independent township in the spring of LS18 ; and at an election held on the first Monday of April, Joseph D. Humphrey was elected Town Clerk ; Abraham Van Hyning, Ezra Way, and Charles Lyon, Trustees. Among the Supervisors of Highways for that year, of whom there were five, we find the names of Joseph Holmes, Elisha Hinsdale and John Cahow. Henry Van Hyning, Sr.. was Justice of the Peace. Probably the first purchase of land was made by James Robinson, he having purchased Lot 19, as early as 1810, and built a hut on it. It seems, however, that he did not make this his permanent residence. He was originally from Otsego County, N. Y. In 1815, he sold his lot to Mr. Henry Van Hyning, Sr. About the same time that Robinson came to Norton, John Cahow settled on Lot 20, about a half-mile east of Robinson's place, and erected a log cabin. It is a matter of some dispute, whether Robinson's or Cahow's house was the first one built in the township. Some authorities claim the former and others the latter. Cahow came from Marjdand and had raised some crops before the war of 1812, and kept a hotel or tavern as it was then called, during that war ; his place being on the great trail from old Portage, on the Cuyahoga, to the Scioto. No progress was made toward settling up the township until after the war of 1812, when a general rush of settlers found their way through the trackless forest. Among them we notice Philemon Kirkham. who settled on Lot 11 ; Seth Lucas, on Lot 12 ; the Bates brothers, who settled south of what is now Johnson's Cornel's at first, and soon after two of them removed to where Loyal Oak now is. Their names were Nathan and Lyman Bates. The}' each erected a cabin, one on the southwest and one on the northeast corner. The place took its name from them. Abraham Van Hyning came in 1814 and settled on Lot 75, now Johnson's Corners. His house stood on a spot about twenty rods nearly due west of the present storehouse, on the l)ank. John Bryan, or O'Brien, perhaps more properly, setw - tied a little southwest of Van Hyning's place, near the present Wooster road, on Lot 85. i About the same time, a family by the name of Clark settled at New Portage, and built a log cabin, partly in this and partly in Coventry' Township. A son of this familj', named Miles, afterward became the first physician of the township. In 1815, quite a number of families settled in the township, among them Henry Van Hyning, who, with his sons, plaj^ed a most important pai't in the earlj' history of Norton. Having purchased Lot 19, of James Robinson, he I'emoved his family from Northampton, where he had settled ten years before, to Norton, where he had intended to pass the remainder of his days. Van H3'ning came originall}' from Saratoga, N. Y., and was of \ Dutch origin, his forefathers having emigrated ; from Holland to New York, when that was called New Amsterdam. His second wife was I a direct descendant of the great Bogardus mentioned in history. Van H3'ning, with his family, left Saratoga for the West in 1805, with two yoke of oxen attached to wagons, and his wife riding horseback through the forest, driving three cows which followed the wagons and requiring little effort on her part. Their course lay through Buflfalo, N. Y., to Erie, Penn., near which place Mr. Van Hyning built canoes, lashed them together and launched them on French Creek. He passed down this creek to the Allegheny, and thence to Pittsburgh, whither his teams were coming as fast as they could travel. From Pittsburgh they went across the counti-y to what is now Canfield, Mahoning County, Ohio, where they stopped about two months. The lamily was here increased by one who was named Sylvester, and who is now living on the old homestead. During the stop at Canfield, Mr. Van Hyning went on to Northampton to locate his home, whither he removed as soon as circumstances would permit. From Canfield they went to Ravenna, thence back to Warren where the}' laid in a stock of provisions, consisting of a barrel of pork, a barrel of flour and a barrel of whisky, with numerous other articles of necessity to a backwoodsman. From Warren they made their way to westward to the Cuyahoga River, which they crossed at a point called " Brady's Leap.'" The bridge across the stream at tiiis place, consisted of two " stringers," or logs, placed across the stream (which was about twenty' feet wide) and a split puncheon floor. Over this they crossed and to Northampton they were obliged to cut a road most of their way. The journey, including the stop at Canfield, occupied about four months. These early settlers were subjected to many privations ; their provisions did not hold out until more could be produced and after a crop was raised they had no mill within a distance of thirty miles. When they went to mill they had to take a big load or the teams would eat it all up before they got back home. A few years, however, removed the diflSculty. The mill and other comforts were added from time to time. This is a sample of the journey across the unbroken wilderness by the earl}' settlers, and one will suflSce as all were much alike.

About the same time that Van Hj^ning came to Norton, Benjamin Hoadley moved in and settled in Lot 15, near Loj'al Oak. He was from Connecticut and had bought eighty acres of land, which he afterward cleared and where his widow still lives to tell of the hardships of their early life. In 1816, Joseph Holmes settled on Lot 67, having bought 197 acres in Lots 67 and 68. Holmes came from Massachusetts originally, but like a great many more had stopped several years in New York State, and from there moved to Ohio. Previous to this, the settlers had erected a log house near the line between Norton and Coventry for school and church purposes. Here Holmes landed and stayed a few days. He moved on to his land on a Wednesday, and camped beside a big tree which had blown over on a spot near where William George now lives. Next day, Thursday, he cut the logs for a cabin, on Friday the neighbors helped him -^ log it up," and on Saturday his family moved into it. This shows how expeditious these old pioneers were. Of course the house was not " chinked up." or plastered with clay, yet it was a dwelling, and sheltered the inmates from the chilling April storms. Our informant was one of the party who camped beside that big log. He says the wolves howled around them all night long, but they knew no fear, and suffered no harm from them. The same day that Holmes raised his house, Charles Miller, father of Cyrus Miller, now living near Norton Center, landed in the township. He settled a little west of Johnson's Corners on the south side of the Wooster road. Numerous other settlers came this same year, and small clearings began to spring up all over the township. The 3^ears 1817-18 brought still more emigrants, and the foundation for some of the numerous villages were laid. Nearh' or quite all of tliose mentioned heretofore were either from New York State or from the New England States, and they earl}' showed their special traits of character in regard to social customs and domestic life. \Iuch of their time was spent in cutting I'oads, clearing up the land and helping each other build their houses. When a road was to be opened, all turned out and helped to cut the trees and get them out of the way. If a man had a lot cleai'ed, that is, cut, he invited his neighbors to help him roll the logs together and burn them. None were selfish in those days, for each one knew that he was dependent on the others to some extent for his own and his family's safety and comfort. Tallmadge, or as it is now called ^liddlebury, was the nearest trading-post, and goods were shipped there in boats up the Cuyahoga to that spot, or up the Muskingum to Upper Portage on the Tuscarawas, and thence to Middlebury by teams. These boats were long, narrow vessels, frequently " dug outs " as they were called, from twenty to forty feet long and from three to five feet wide, and propelled by means of poles. Their capacity was ten to twelve barrels of pork, salt, flour or whisky. This last being a verj' important article of consumption in those early days. Stock of all kinds was scarce. Sheep could not be kept on account of the wolves, and many a family's suppl}* of pork was prematurely exhausted hy the hungry bears which prowled around the cabins of the settlers. For the benefit of butter-makers, we will relate the following of Van Hyning's trip to this township. As already mentioned, Mrs. Van Hyning rode on horseback and drove three cows. Their milk which remained unused on breaking camp in the morning was placed in a large jug and deposited in one of the wagons. By night a nice chunk of butter would have been formed in the jug churned by the jolting of the wagon over the beech roots. Farming was poor business in those days. Corn was the main staple, as this could be fed to the cattle and pigs as well as the human beings ; wheat was raised only for bread and seed, as prior to the opening of the Ohio Canal it cost more to get the wheat to market than it was worth after it was there. Beans were also a very important article of production, since they could be used without being ground. Indeed many would cook shelled corn with the beans to make them hold out longer. But this was only the case prior to the building of mills within reach of the settlement.

The first birth within the present boundai'ies of Norton was a child of L\'man Bates, which, however, did not live long. Bates then lived south of Johnson's Corners. A few years later another was born, who lived. Soon after this, Bates house was burned and he removed to what is now Loyal Oak. The first death of a white person was Patty O'Brien, daughter of John O'Brien, aged about two years. James Robinson and Lois Bates were the first couple married in the township. They were married at the residence of the bride's parents south of Johnson's Corners, by William Prior, a Justice of the Peace, of Northampton. This was in the fall of 1811. Probably the second wedding was that of James Cahow and Miranda Holmes, daughter of Joseph Holmes, which took place at her father's residence about a mile east of Norton Center, April 0. 1818, by Henry Van Hyning, Sr.

No Indians remained in the township after 1812, consequently the settlers were at peace, with the exception of a personal squabble once in awhile. A few incidents and personal adventures will illustrate the times of which we write : Soon after Benjamin Hoadley settled in Norton, he and Henry \n.n Hyning, Jr., went into the woods on a hunting excursion, as was customai'y when provisions ran low. In the course of their hunt they found a bee-tree, and. as it was in the fall of the year, concluded to leave it until the weather was colder, and then cut it down and convc}' the hidden sweets to their homes. Some time during the winter following they went forth to cut the tree. But lo ! the tree had fallen down, and the bears, who like honey as well as the human family, had got away with the whole of it. A few years after, the same parties again found a bee-tree over in the southeast part of what is now Sharon Township. This time they thought they would make sure of their prize, :uid accordingly the next da}-, armed with axes and a pail apiece, they made for the spot. The tree was soon felled, and the honey literally flowed. The pails were soon filled with fine white comb. Thei'e beins: so much left and the distance so great, they began to contrive means to take more of it, and not be at the necessity of making another trip, nor at the risk of losing the honey by the cunning bears, who woukl no doubt find it before they could make another trip for it. Van Hyning wore a long, loose sort of a blouse, and of this they contrived to make a sack, which the}' thought would hold comb honey. So they tied the blouse together at one end, filled it with the choicest honey, and secured the other end in a like manner. Slinging this with their pails on a pole which they had cut, and Van Hyning taking the lead, oft' they trudged toward home. But they had -' reckoned without their host ; " the blouse was not very closel}' woven, and the jar caused by walking through the woods, over logs, and up hill and down, caused the honey to run out of the comb and drip out through the blouse. Hoadley was soon almost covered with hone}', and never forgot this, the sweetest adventure he ever experienced.

Henry Van Hyning, Sr., had two noted dogs, Bose and Grunner by name - very large and powerful, and ver}- skillful in hunting bear. One time soon after Nathan Bates had erected the first cabin on the site where now stands Bates" Corners, Henry Van H3'ning. Jr., went to see how he was getting aloug. When he got to Bates' place, Bates told him that there had been a bear seen in the woods not far away the evening before, and suggested that they go and find him. Two of Bates' brothers were also with him at the same time. Van Hj'ning, although acknowledged a skillful hunter, had left his rifle at home that morning, and had only l)r<)ught one dog with him. They therefore concluded to send one of the brothers down to Van H3-ning's place for the rifle, and for -' Bose,' with instructions to meet them on what was called the " Hog Back," a hill on the farm now owned by Jacob Wertraan. Van Hyning and the two Bates went to this spot with "(runner " and two rifles. Near the '' Hog Back ' was a spring, and just below the spring was a bed of sweet sicily. This was a favorite resort fijr bear, and for this reason, the men went to this place, when Gunner began to show signs of -' bar." His bristles stood erect. He sniffed the air and whined as though impatient for the fray. "Well," said his master, " go for them. Gunner," and Gunner went. He had no sooner entered the marsh than he raised the roar, which told the men that he had found a bear, and the sound told them which direction the bear and dog was taking. Snatching a rifle from Bates, Van Hyning started across the ravine to head off" the bear. In this he succeeded by taking a route diagonal to that taken by the bear. As soon as the latter saw him he started toward him for a fight. Van Hyning reserved his fire until he could be sure of his aim. He was quite a distance from the rest of the part}^ and had a rifle to which he was unused, which placed him in a serious position. The bear, when about ten or twelve feet from the hunter, threw his head down for a moment, and this moment was suflScient for Van Hyning, who fired. The bear turned a complete somersault and landed in a little hollow, but was not dead, although his neck had been broken by the ball. The Bates brothers now came up, and one of them placed the other rifle to the bear's ear with the intention of blowing his brains out, but the rifle missed fire. '- Open the pan," said Van Hyning, and, priming the empt}^ gun in his hand, he held the two pans together, and flashed the one, which ignited the other. This finished the bear. On dressing him and weighing his quarters, it was found that they weighed 500 pounds. It was the largest bear killed in all the country around, if not the largest in the State. V^m Hyning, who still lives to tell the story, says he would not run the same risk again, and take the chances, for the whole of Summit County.

As we have stated, money was scarce and hard to get in those early days. Prior to the opening of the Ohio Canal, wheat was of no value except for food, and man)- had wheat stored up, some to the amount of several hundred bushels. But when tax-paying time came, some would take their rifles and shoot deer, take the hides on their backs to Cleveland, and thus get money to pay their taxes. The canal, however, worked a great change in all this. Wiieat went up first to 50 cents, then on to $1 per bushel. Some settlers had scoffed at their neighbors " who were spending their time sowing and harvesting more wheat than they needed for family use," and storing it up in their garrets. In at least one instance, the joist had to be propped up to keep them from breaking down. When wheat went up, however, to $1 per bushel, Joseph D. Humphrey, one of the scoffers, said to one of his provident neighbors : " Squire, I am just $1,000 out of pocket."

" Why so ? " said the " Squire." " Why," said Huraphre}', " because I have not got 1,000 bushels of wheat to sell. I might as well have raised that much and stored it up as not."

New Portage was the scene of an epidemic from the years 1825 to 1828, which was called typhus or malarial fever. This nearly wiped the town out of existence. It seemed fatal, and those who had clung to it as the El Dorado of their hopes, were loath to leave, but were forced to do so, or die in their tracks, as scarcely an}^ escaped the deadly disease.

During the early history of this township, a great deal of counterfeit money was in circulation, and a great deal of suspicion was attached to persons then living in Johnson's Corners. One De Course}' was generallv considered the ringleader of the whole crookedness. He was a sharp, shrewd man - one who seemed to know all that was going on in the whole neighborhood - for no sooner did the Justice issue a warrant for his arrest than he took to the woods, where he would remain until the storm had blown over, when he would again make his appearance. At one time, when the Constable came with a posse to arrest him, De Coursey spied them coming, and quick as thought he pulled off his coat, tossed it to George Beach, who was with him at the time, saying, " Be quick, George. Put on that coat and streak for the woods." Beach did not wait to be told a second time, but " streaked." The Constable and posse took after him full speed. Beach ran until he thought he had carried the joke far enough, when he turned around and faced the music with the remark : " What in hell do you want ? what's the matter ? " " Sucked, by G - !" said the Constable. De Coursey in the meanwhile had time to escape. About 1825, a young man named Henry Flickinger came to Johnson's Corners with about $300 in money, which was good, but not the kind that would pass at the land office where he wished to use it for the purpose of buying land. De Course}' then had a man with him named Downs, who, they said, could exchange money with Flickinger. This Flickinger was glad to do, but alas ! when Flickinger came to the land office with his money, it was found to be spurious Virginia mone3^ He swore out a warrant for the arrest of Downs, before Esquire Van Hyning. It was served by Henry Sparhawk, Constable, who found his man at Yellow Creek Basin, then a favorite resort for counterfeiters and horse-thieves. Downs had a fine horse which he rode. They proceeded on their wa}' to Norton, but had not gone far when Downs took to the woods, leaving the horse in possession of the Constable, who brought it to Norton, gave it up to the Squire, who in turn delivered it to Mr. Flickinger, who thus had a horse in exchange for his $300. Suspicion also pointed to one James Hendershott, who once lived in a house on the high knoll just south of where Jacob Wertman now lives. When the house was torn down, soon after he left it, some counterfeit half-dollars were found in the cellar, supposed to have been left there by him, as he was the last and the only suspicious character who ever lived there.

At the organization of the township, only three Democratic voters were present. They were Abel Irish, Joseph D. Humphrey and Levi Waj', who lived in the southeast part of the town. Now, the Democrats have a raajorit}' of about sixty in the township.

Norton Township is abundantly supplied with coal of a good quality, no less than four coal mines being in operation within the limits of the township at the present time. The first coal was found cropping out of the bank of a creek, near where the Bartges or Williams Brothers bank now is, as early perhaps as 1825. This coal was sold for $1 per load, and each one dug his own coal at first. About 1830-31, the bank on the northeast side of this creek was opened by Jason Jones and a man named Funk. iVbout ten years afterward, Joseph Burgess opened the bank on the other side of the creek, and, years after, the one now in operation on his farm, south of Johnson's Corners. In 1876, a coal mine was opened on the farm of Charles Stuver. In 1863, the Atlantic & Great Western Railwa}', now known as the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, was opened through the township from east to west, and while grading this, coal was found in a cut at Dennison, which led to the opening of a coal mine at that place. Hundreds of thousands of tons of coal have been taken from this mine, and within the last three 3'ears two new openings have been made, and the old bank abandoned and allowed to fill up with water. This mine supplies the railroad with coal for their engines, at the chutes, near the mine, thus saving transportation on a great amount of coal.

Probably the first tavern or public house kept in the township was situated on Lot 20, a little east of the Wolf Creek. It was kept by John Cahow, who settled here as early as 1810, and kept travelers at his cabin during the war of 1812, and after, Joseph Holmes who has already been mentioned as settling on Lot 57, also kept a hotel for the accommodation of travelers after 1820. Thomas Van Hyning, who settled on the farm now occupied by Mervin Shaw, was also an earl}^ tavern-keeper. Others will be mentioned in the history of the villages of the township. The first saw-mill in the township was built by Thomas Johnson, near Johnson's Corners, several rods south of the present grist-mill. It was built about the year 1823. Thomas Van Hyning built one a little farther up the creek. Hezekiah Ward built a saw-mill on Hudson Run, up near the Wadsworth line, about 1825. These were what was called sash-frame saws and worked very slow. About 1837, Nathan Seiberling, who had settled on his present farm in 1831, built a saw-mill introducing what was called a geared mule}' saw, which cut much faster than theold style. Some years after, another mill was built still farther down the creek than Seiberlings, and which is still in use, although steam has been substituted for water-power. The five saw-mills just mentioned were all on Hudson Hun ; one was built on Van Hyning Creek, at an earl}^ date, by Henry Van Hyning, Jr. The first grist-mill built in Norton was at Johnson's Corners, and is still in operation. It was built by Thomas Johnson about 1830 ; he soon after built another farther down the creek, which, however, did not long continue. At the raising of this mill, Dennis Bates fell from it and was killed, having struck his head on a rock and crushed in his skull. Clark's Mill was built by Carlos Clark about 1836-37. A great deal of litigation has been had about this mill and its water-power. The mill was finally burned to the ground in 1879 ; how the fire originated was never ascertained. The mill had been repaired but a short time before, and was just getting under way and doing good work. There has been but one distillery in the township, and it was a short-lived affair. It was at New Portage, and was carried on by Uriah IM. Chapel, probably as earl}- as 1825. The proprietor was a powerful man, noted for his strength and agility as a wrestler, but he eventually found his match in the person of Henry Van Hyning, Jr., who threw him twice in succession, at one of the numerous " bees " so common in those earl}' da3's. The first tannery in the township was at Western Star. It was built prior to 1830, and was at that date operated by Lebbens Hoskinson, late of Johnson's Corners. In 1835, another was started at Bates' Corners, but by whom we are not able to say ; both of these are still in operation. A third was started at Johnson's Corners, considerably later, but has long since ceased to exist. Samuel Baker was the first blacksmith in the township, and, prior to his moving to Norton, he plied his trade in Stow, where some Norton people went to get their blacksmithing done. Baker's brother-in-law, Abe Van Hj'uing, of Johnson's Corners, was in need of some blacksmithing, and concluded to go to Stow to get his friend Sam to do his work. He had a natural dislike for bear's meat, which formed a very important part of Baker's provisions, and, indeed, was the only kind of meat they had at the time. Baker's wife knew of this aversion, but thought she would fix him up a steak that he would relish. Accordingl}-, as Van Hyning had to sta\' all night, she brought him a piece of meat nicely served, calling it beef for his supper, saying that she knew he did not like bear meat, so she had cooked him some beef they had got of a neighbor. Van Hyning ate heartily of the heef^ and at last said, " Just cut me a small slice of the bear meat to taste." He was helped to a small piece from the other dish, but pronounced it " strong, couldn't eat it no how." The Bakers managed to keep from smiling until the meal was over, but after this, whenever Van Hyning said he didn't like bear meat, some one was ready to remind him of the time he ate it and liked it, but supposed it to be beef When Baker came to Norton, he put up his shop at Clark's Mills, near where George Turner now lives.