Perry Township

The First Settler Pioneer Neighbors Chapel M.E. Church Ebenezer M.E. Church

The first home made within the boundaiy of Perry township, was b}' James Brown, Sr., from Massachusetts, who resided for a time in Waterford, in Washington county, but in 1802, built a cabin, and opened a hotel, where the " Zane Trace" crossed Big Salt Creek. This road, also called the " Old Wheeling Road," entered this township on section twenty, and passed out near the southwest corner of the township. Along this road the first settlements were made. Mr. Brown was " a man of means," and of more than ordinary intelligence, and thereby acquired considerable influence, in the neighborhood, and offered no inconsiderable opposition to the dominion of Isaac Pryor, who kept hotel further west, on the same highway. David Comstock came and settled on the southeast quarter of section eighteen, just west of Mr. Brown, in 1804, the place since occupied by William Caw. Abraham Gabriel, and his son, Reuben, came from Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1807, and bought five hundred acres of land, in the Johnson four thousand acre purchase, and located on the Wheeling road, the site now occupied by R. H. Atkinson. Amasa Davis came dui'ing this year also, and located on the place now occupied by Samuel Bowers. And during this year, also, John Echelberry came from Green county, Pennsylvania, and entered the northeast quarter of section six. He was unable to pay for the 'tract, however, and sold it to George Border, in 1810, removing to the southwest quarter of the same section. Jacob Livingood settled, first, in Washington township, in 1806, and, in 1807, sold out to Joseph Bowers, and came to this township, and settled on section twelve, where he built a saw mill, and, soon after, a grist mill, on Salt Creek. Joseph Dicker came in 1808, and settled, probably, on section nine. In 1809, John Wartenbee came from Wellsburg, West Virginia, and built a small saw mill on Salt Creek, on the southwest quarter of section twentytwo, in 1810, and built a small grist mill, in 1812. Peter Livingood came from Green count}', Pennsylvania, and located on the Wheeling road, in 1810 ; the property passed, subsequently, to Howard Dunn. The same year came, also, Jacob Vanpelt, and located on the place now occupied by George Little, and Simon Merwine, where Elijah Eaton now lives ; Philip Baker, where Irvin Winn lives ; Christopher Schuch. on the northwest quarter of section nine, and

James Brown,, Jr., on the northeast quarter of section twenty. Alexander Armstrong came fi'om Armagh, Ireland, and located on the Wheeling road, in 1810, and Samuel Connaway came about this time. Aaron Vernon moved from Washington township to the northeast quarter of section five, in 1811 ; and during the same year, a Mr. Harris came from Pennsylvania, and located on the northwest quarter of section twenty ; and a Mr. Engle on the northeast quarter of section nineteen, on the Wheeling road. The country settled up so rapidly, from this date, that the "oldest inhabitants" fear to undertake to give a correct list of the incoming tide.

Notably, the first cabin was erected by James Brown, Sr., sometimes called Luke Brown; it. was where the " Zane Trace " crossed Salt Creek, and was erected in 1802.

The first brick building was erected by Eli Walls, in 1819. The next was by Mr. Kaufman, in 1820. The latter was afterwards occupied by Michael Sauerbaugh.

The first Marriage. - "The high contracting parties" were Christopher Shuck and Mar}' Livingood, and the dignified official who pronounced the twain one flesh, was Christian Spangler ; time, "an early day."

The first school house was the conventional log cabin, with puncheon floor, etc., on the Comstock place ; and the first school teacher was Simon Merrin, who taught in 18 11, and was "every inch a gentleman."

The first store was kept by James Brown, on the \Vheeling road, in 1834. The next was by Phillip Bastian, on the National road, west of Bridgeville, in 1840. This store was subsequently successively owned by Richard Hall, John W. Winn, George Winn, Stephen Tudor, I. N. Shroyer, James Lorimer, Samuel Mock, Stephen Tudor, Joseph Fisher, Eli Border, and Hugh Huft', the present proprietor.

The first tavern was kept by James Brown, in 1802, the first cabin mentioned. His son. Major James Brown, also kept tavern on the same road in 1810.

The first blacksmith was Ja(5bb Wisecarver, who li\ed on Peter Livingood's land, southwest of the site now^ occupied by Sonora. This was probably in 18 11. Amasa Davis was also an early knight of the forge, and by some, claimed to ha\e been the first ; but his fire went out so long ago that no trace remains to indicate the time or place.

Perry township was organized in 181 2, and named in honor of Commodore Oliver H. Perry. Geographically considered, it is the "Military District ;" is fi^'e miles square, bounded on the north by Salem township, east by Union township, south by Salt Creek and Wavne townships, the dividing line between Perry and the latter

Topographically this township is not hillj-, but undxilating ; the soil is limestone clay, with sand, and yields good crops. The entire township is drained by Salt Creek and its tributaries. Little Salt Creek, White Eyes Run, and numerous smaller streams. Springs are numerous, and the water is good.

The National Pike passes through the township from the northeast quarter of section eleven, ' in a general, western direction, and is the only Pike in the township. It was completed in 1829.

Railroad

The Central Ohio Division of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad enters this township (Perry) on the southeast quarter of section ten, and leaves it on the northwest quarter of section fifteen, traversing a distance of six miles. It has a station and water tank at Sonora.

This analysis shows this to be a very superior coal. The fixed carbon is large and the sulphur small. It has been tried in a small way, in the Zanesville furnace, with approval. So far as analysis has been made, the coal is found to be the purest in that part of the county belonging to the Second District, and is one of the best coals in the State. At many other points, the coal of this seam is much less pure.

The following geological section was taken on the land of Mr. Crane, about one mile south of F. Dunn's, near the line between Perry and Salt Creek townships :

The coal No. four, in this section, could not be examined, the old opening having fallen in. - [Geological Report, 1873, volume i, pp. 333-4 and 5. E. B. Andrews, Assistant Geologist.] .

The First Saw And Grist Mills

The first saw and grist mills were built by Christopher Shuck, in 1807, for Jacob Livingood, on Salt Creek, just below where the National Pike now crosses that stream. 'Notwithstanding its primitive character, Livingood's mill was hailed as a decided acquisition. The Livingoods have since built several mills, on the same stream, but they have been given a "rest."

John Wartenbee had a small grist mill, on Salt Creek, lower down than Livingood's, but it, too, has ceased. Salt Creek no longer turns the busy wheels ; the naiads now may claim its pools for bathing.

Wesley Chapel M. E. Church

of John Bowers, and wife, Barbara, with their sons, Peter, Nicholas, Heniy, and Samuel, and daughters, Catharine and Mary, John Vernon, and Elizabeth, his wife, Jacob Walters, and Alice, his wife, Aaron Vernon, and Susan, his wife, William, John, Wells, Elijah, Edward, Lucinda, Mary, Chi-istina, and Emily Spry. John Spry was class leader. They met from house to house, until 1816, when they were permitted to use the school house, just built, and they continued to meet there, until 1823, when they built a hewed log meeting hovise, on the Bowers place, and on that account it was called the Bowers Meeting House, for many years.

In 1846, a new church, 40x58, of frame, was built on the northeast quaiter of section six, near Sonora, Perrj- township, and the congregation gathered there and worshiped.

The present number of members is ninety. The Leaders, John Auchauer, Cummins Orr, and Edward Bowers. The Stewards are, Nicholas Bowers, and John Auchauer. The pastor. Rev. Wm. Peregoy, of Norwich.

Ebenezer M. E. Church

This society was organized by Joseph Carper, in 1S27, with the following members: Andrew Dewees, and wife, Isaiah Carr, and wife, Christopher Shuck, and wife, Edmund Northen, and wife, and " Mother Spry."

In 1828, the society erected a hewed log church, 30x38, which they weather-boarded, plastered, and painted. Some years afterward, the church was named, Ebenezer M. E. Church, though it is generally known as " Carr's Church." Rev. Gilbert Blue preached the first sermon, in the new church. Edmund Northen was Exhorter, Isaiah Carr was Leader.

In 1830, the membership was about thiily, and four years later the society had doubled its membership. At this time the Leaders were, Isaiah Carr, and Samuel Garner ; and, during this year, Carr was appointed Circuit Steward.

In 185 1, Isaiah Carr was licensed to preach, and Samuel Garner, and John D. Mock became Leaders. Jacob Shuck also became a Leader, and Ward Atkinson was Sabbath School Superintendent. Isaiah Carr was local preacher and Steward.

The foregoing statistics were furnished by Isaiah Carr, whose age rendered him almost too infirm for the task ; he was near 87 years of age, and scarcely able to see, but his spiritual lamp is " well trimmed and burning."

About the year 1830, Rev. Samuel Kaemmerer preached occasionally at the house of George Border,and formed a small class, composed of George Border, and family, John Auspach, and family, and Lorenzo Shick. George Border, and Robert Dickson, deeded one acre of ground, situated on the north line, between sections seven and fourteen, and, on this, a log church, 20x30, was erected. In 1836, the society contained the following additional members ; J. F. Sutter, Jacob Folk, Nicholas Lockers, Phillip Bastian, Casper Brock, Jacob Shick, John Hewett, Michael Sauerbaugh, Andrew Sandel, Anna M. Sutter, Martha Stiers, Elizabeth Crane, and Dorothea Kerner.

The log church stood until 1856, when a new plat of ground, just east of the old site, was secured from John Culbertson, and a frame church, 34x44, was erected, under the superintendence of Michael Sauerbaugh, Bartley Sutter, and Michael Sandel, Trustees.

Rev. Samuel Kaemmerer, preached until 1852, and was followed by Rev. Amos Bartholomew, who ministered two years, and Rev. A. J. Weddel, three years. The church was dedicated by Rev's. James Ryan, and A.Bartholomew. Rev. George Leusabaugh, was installed in 1856, and remained until i860, and was succeeded by Rev. W. M. Gilbreath, who served six years, and was succeeded by Rev. Thos. Drake, who served until 1869, and was followed by Rev. W. M. Gilbreath, (second term), who began in 1873, and continues their pastor.

Postoffice Of Bridgeville

Anno Domini, 1833, application was made to the Postmaster General, for a postoffice. The petition was granted, and Andrew Hughes, who lived near the bridge, on the National Road, was appointed Postmaster, and the office was called Bridge ville Postoffice, and thus the hamlet of Bridgeville was founded. It contains two stores, kept by A. L. Turney. and Hugh HuflF: two blacksmith shops, bj' Lewis and Hugh Huft", and one shoe shop, by T. L. Stiers. Its commanding situation argues a bright future. The postoffice has since alternated between Bridgeville and the store at the cross roads, half a mile west, where it now is. R. F. Hufl:'is Postmaster.

John Brown was the original proprietor of this town site ; it was laid out in 1852, by Isaac Stiers. There are now two stores, kept by the Haines brothers, and Mrs. Bowers ; one hotel, kept b}' Robert Dunn ; this was the first house - built by Solomon Bowers - now known as "Dunn's Hotel ;" one express and freight office. Miss M. Bowers, agent : one broom factory, by Allen Dunn ; two blacksmiths, F. B. Farlej'^, and G. W. Watts ; one shoemaker, C. W. Jones ; one carpenter, John Erwin ; one stone mason, John Whitcraft ; the postoffice. Miss Media Bowers, Postmisti-ess ; one physician, J. D. Jennings,

The postoffice at Sonora, was established in 1855 ; Evan Crane was the first Postmaster. He was succeeded by Adam Turney ; he, by Solomon Bowers, in 1862 ; he served six years, and died. J. Probasco then acted as Postmaster, for six months, when Hester, Solomon Bowers' widow, was' appointed, and sei'ved eleven years, when she died, and was succceeded by her daughter Media, the present incumbent.

The first resident physician in the township, was Dr. J. S. Halderman ; he was succeeded by F. H. Jennings, who remained until 1865, when Dr. J. D. Jennings came, and continues to hold the fort.

Military Record

The following list is a just source of pride to the citizens of old Perry as an evidence of her patriotism. She sent her sons, brothers, and fathers, to do battle for our common country, that our liberties might be perpetuated :

One Hundred and Ninety-fifth O. V. I. - David Dunn, and Howard Johnston - Martin Bowers, Robert Stotts (colored) - John Martin, Wilham Evans, C. H. Craig, J. W. Winn, Alfred Shamblin.

Meadow Farm Church Rev. Cornelius

DIER GENERAL WILES - COMPANY B, ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-NINTH O. N. G. WESTERN FLOTILLA - ^BATTLE OF MONOCACY JUNCTION PUTNAM GKAYS MUSKINGUM COUNTY

Militia Roll Of Honor Improved Breeds Of Stock

This township was formerly a part of Newton township. The first election under the new name was held at David Harvey's tavern, in Zanestown, June 21, 1803, when the following officers were elected :

The next meeting was called by the County Commissioners, at the house of Thomas Douden, in Springfield, April i, 1805. Levi Whipple was Chaii'nran ; Samuel Scott and Alexander McCoy, were the Judges of the election.

The first meeting of the electors of Springfield, was convened by order of the County Commissioners, at the house of William Bui-nham, in the village ot Springfield, April 3, 1809 ; at which meeting, Isaac Van Home was Chairman ; Isaac Minshall and Samuel Beach were chosen Judges, and Levi Whipple, Clerk. The result was as follows :

No account of the election of a Justice of the Peace has been found, but March 11, 1809, the following entry in the township record "appears :

"The Trustees met agreeably to adjournment, and settled the account of Levi Whipple on his docket, as per fines assessed since last settlement."

July I, 1809, "William H. Moore, Esq., produced his commission as a Justice of the Peace, to Levi Whipple, Town Clerk, and was. qualified to that office by Abel Lewis, Clerk of Muskingum County, June 20, 1809."

The original boundary of the township was as follows: Beginning at the mouth of the Licking river, on the south side ; thence, up said river, to a point where it intersects the "base or military line ;" thence, west, along said line, six miles from the place of beginning (bounded on the north by Falls township and a small portion of Hopewell township) ; thence, south, three and three-quarter miles (bounded on the west b}^ Hopewell and a small portion of Newton township) ; thence, east, six miles, south one-half mile, and east one mile, to the Muskingum river (being bounded on the south by Newton and a small portion of Brush Creek township) ; thence, up the Muskingum river, to the place of beginning.

The surface of this township is generally rolling, with beautiful and fertile valleys along the streams. The soil of the valleys is denominated a sandy loam, with a clay subsoil, in general, and well adapted to produce wheat, corn, oats, rye, clover, timothy and other grasses, and vegetables. The slopes and uplands are well adapted to horticulture.

The topographical features, now so much admired, had a special attraction in an early day, also, for the red man, who found the gently sloping hills and tortuous valleys peculiarly fitted for the haunts of game, and possessed of a weird charm, for their nomadic habits and fancies. And the pioneer white man was lured hither by the abundance of game, of which the elk was king of the forest, and, on that account, the French traders at Detroit named this region "The Kingdom of the Moose," which, among the hunters, was transposed into Moose-kingdom, and thence, corrupted into Muskingum - vide Loskiel. This is corroborated to this day, by the existence of such succulent grasses and plants as the moose-deer is known to be particularly fond of; and also, in conjunction,' the abundance of small streams of pure water, making it a Paradise for such animals.

Among the noted water courses, are Thompson's run and its tributaries, permeating the northwest portion, and passing out about the center of the south boundary, into Newton township, and subsequently emptying into Jonathan's creek - so called, because Jonathan Zane, being lost, camped on that stream, near its mouth, and which his friends named "Jonathan's creek," to commemorate the event.

Shawnee run rises in the western portion of section fourteen, runs three miles in a southeasterly direction, and empties into Jonathan's creek.

Early in the spring of 1799, David Stokely came up the Muskingum river, and, resolving to make his home on the Congress land that embraced the present site of Putnatn, built his cabin near the site of the Putnam foundrj-, and prepared a small field, in wliich he planted and cultivated corn. When the corn was "laid bv, ' he returned to his late residence, and on the third of July, of that year, married Miss Abigail Hurlbut, and, on the sixth daj% introduced his bride to her new domicile, they having made. the trip through the trackless forest in three days - she on horseback, with her trousseau, and he on foot. Among her first duties in putting her house in order, w as grubbing the small stumps from the earth floor, that it might become smooth by use. This being completed, two stakes were dri\'en into the ground, near the wall, in a corner, and a few cross sticks added, on which rushes were laid, and the primitive bed was made ; and doubtless was a source of comfort, where, "mid the visions of "love's }oung dreams," they wooed the goddess of happiness, with "none to molest or make them afraid."

Mr. Stokely continued to occupy the premises with his wife, until the lands were sold, when, being unable to purchase so large a tract, it was bought by Dr. Increase Mathews, who associated witlT,him'his cousin, as elsewhere related. These gentlemen permitted him to remain on the land three years longer, as a compensation for the clearing he had done. Much of the town site was cleared by Stokely and George Mathews. In 1805, Mr. Stokely removed to a place south of

According to Rev. Addison Kingsbury's narrative, the following pei'sons came into the township soon after the town of Springfield was laid out:

Dr. J. Rodman, William Hibbs, John Fogies, and Cornelius Kirk, between 1806 and 1810, settled near together. Jacob Reese settled on the farm now owned and occupied by his son, Solomon Reese. In 1807, he built a hewed log house - quite a fine home for those days - and in 1815, erected a frame barn, the first in the township. Jacob Reese is remembered as a consistent Christian. He died in 1863, aged eightyseven years.

Chronological

The details of many events that follow, being, unfortunately, veiy brief, their chronological order, rather than a classified arrangement, will be followed.

The First Guist Mill

The first grist mill was inaugurated in the summer of 1799, by John and George Mathews, and situated on a platform supported by two boats, so adjusted as to support a wheel between them, and moored where the water ran swiftest, and was thus furnished with water power for grinding. It was generally anchored a short distance above what was, and is, the west end of Putnam bridge. " Once upon a time," when the river was high, the waters captured this mill and took it down the stream as far as Taylorsville, but it was afterwards brought back, and tradition further sa5-s, rendered efficient service.

The First Saw Mill

The Spring Hill Company, December ist, 1801 , by contract with John Sharp, built a saw m\ll, with one upright saw, which was run by the long paddle wheel. A peculiarity of the contract, said to be customary in "ye olden time," was that the builder was to be furnished with three gills of whiskey each day, until the work was finished.

Levi Whipple built a saw mill in 1802, and in 1804, built a flour mill, just above the site now occupied by the woolen mill. These mills stood near together, and were destroyed when the bridge burned in 1845. Mr. Whipple was a public spirited, christian gentleman ; his name is associated with the public enterprises and acts of benevolence of his time.

The one known as the Levi Whipple Flour Mill, in Putnam, was built by the. Spring Hill Company, in 1803. By the division of property in 1806, it passed into the hands of Levi Whipple. It was an undershot water wheel power, one stone, at first. This being before the Muskingum Improvement, Mr. Whipple was obliged to build a wing dam, and keep it in repair ; and according to the rules governing in such matters, he was not allowed to build it so high that it would hold the water back and interfere with other mills, yet to get the proper amount of water, this was often done, and as often by the owners of the mills above. " The Jackson " and " Granger Mills," would send men over and punch holes in his dam and let the water out. Mr. Whipple operated this mill until about 1820, when he sold it to Joseph R. Thomas, who, about 1843, sold it to Beaumont & Hollingswoi-th, and it was burned in May, 1845.

The mills of to-day have so little in common with those of which we have just spoken, that the miller of our time may well be considered a scientist of the highest order, as compai-ed with such men as John and George Mathews, with their floating mill of 1799. The miller of to-daj* must not only be a machinist, comprehending the specific purposes of machinerj^ but with the skill of the manufacturer, he must be able to repair anj' defect or loss by wear, that may occur, and keep the mill in running order ; which argues a high state of skill, as perhaps no class of machinery has undergone more changes than those used in milling, certainly within the last fifty years. This requirment involves a practical application of chemistr}-, too, that fer se necessitates a clear comprehension of the principles involved, in order to secure success ; and again, the form and composition of a single grain of wheat is also a matter of importance, that a proper discrimination may be had, to separate the different qualities, and convert them into the flour they are adapted to making. Some parts of the wheat, also, are only fit for.feed, while others yield the highest grade of flour. That these qualifications were attained b}^ the inventor of the present improved machinery, of course, will not be questioned ; and it is perhaps owing to the mastery of the principles by the inventor, that the necessity of at least as high a qualification on the part of the miller exists. For example: Before the introduction of the "new process of making flour, it was thought only necessary to clean the wheat reasonably well, grind it fine, and also make as few middlings as possible ; separate the flour, middlings and bran, by bolting, re-grind the middlings, together with all the impurities, such as fine bran, germ of the wheat, dust and fuzz from the crease in the wheat grain and its fuzz ends, the whole ground up, making a low grade of flour, and, consequently, the whole life was killed b}' too close grinding, and, of course, resulting in a flour that almost invariably made heavy bread. The exceedingfine grinding destroyed the cells in the wheat, and thus' destroyed tlie rising qualit}-. The new process demonstrates that the best flour is included in the middlings, which, in the old way, was made into the lowest grade, because mixed with the impurities, as described To purify the middlings, therefore, challenged inventive talent of the highest order, since the machine must produce a mechanical and chemical result. This demand has been met by a multitude of devices, so that the miller finds himself supplied with a copious literature, setting forth their various advantages. Among these, the blast or suction of wind from a revolving fan, and the size of mesh in the bolting cloth, which separates the fine particles of bran, fluff and other impurities from the middlings, leaving them sharp, resembling pure white sand, is in use. From the middlings thus purified, the flour so much prized by all who have used what is known as patent flour is made ; grinding it with buhrs, and bolting through fine cloth. The use of the purifier is a change for the better, also, by allowing the miller to grind higher, as he terms it, i. e., with the stones at a greater dfetance apart, without fear of losing in yield, and increasing the proportion of low grade flour ; and thus, too, avoiding the danger of getting just a little too close in grinding, which, as we have seen, destroys the cells in the wheat, rendering it unfit for bread. It is found that the higher the grinding, the larger the quantum of middlings, of which the highest grade of patent flour is made, and the flour from the fii^st bolting (wheat-flour, or clear flour) is more granular, whiter and better. But the high grinding produces a heavy bran, leaving too large a quantity of flour adhering to the bran, and hence the necessity of a machine to get it oflF. Some grind the bran over on buhrs, and others use machines for knocking or threshing it off"; but the most successful machine at present, seems to be the sharp corrugated roller ; so arranged, that one roller goes faster than the other, and accomplishes the desired result. The brush-scourer, for cleaning wheat, is a superior device, in general use, but this article does not admit of giving the minutia of the numerous machines, as it is not intended to be cyclopedic.

The wheat heater, used to warm the wheat in cold weather, to a temperature known to facilitate grinding, is used to advantage, as manifestly frozen wheat would not yield good results. The speed of running, too, is important; formerly it was thought necessary to run four foot stones, from one hundred and eighty to two hundred and ten revolutions per minute, and grind from twelve to eighteen bushels of wheat per hour ; now the mills that have the best reputation only run from one^ hundred and twenty to one hundred and thirty-five revolutions per minute, and grind from four to six bushels per hour, to the run of stone ; thus avoiding undue heating of the chops, and leaving the flour, when bolted, free from injury by overheating, and retaining all the life peculiar to healthy, perfect grain, and therefore affording the highest amount of healthy bread.

nine miles, to where it crosses Jonathan's Creek, in Newton township, and opened a public house, that for many years was known as " Crooks' Tavern."

Line Of Stages

In 1821, William Beard put a line of stages on this road (opened by Crooks) ; the first drivers were William Griffy, and Samuel Murdock. They made connection with the stages, on the road, from Wheeling to Chillicothe, a route that was in operation in 1817, by John S. Dugan.

Flouring Mill On Jonathan'S Creek

In 1806, John Mathews built a large flouring mill, on Jonathan's Creek, about half a mile from where it empties into the Muskingum river. And about the same time he erected a saw mill, near by.

Distillery

In 1 8 10, John Mathews erected a distiller}-, also, nearby. He was assisted in the manufacture of whiskey by Ira Belknap. Mr. Mathews erected quite a number of dwellings, for the men in his employ ; they were located near the mill, and the settlement was soon after known as " Moxahala."

The first brick kiln, as near as can be ascertained, was located on the north side of the Cooper Mill Road, near the present Fair Grounds, and was inaugurated b}- William Simmons, in 1807.

In 181 2, a number of Shawnee Indians camped near a large spring, which the pioneers called "Shawnee," from this circumstance. When these red men of the forest first appeared in this locality, the pale faces were suspicious, and fearful, lest their visit might mean a threatening danger ; but, as they manifested a friendly spirit, and offered for sale, or exchange, furs, moccasins, and trinkets, the}- were soon only regarded with curiosity ; many visiting their camp to gratify their desire to know what manner of people "they were, and how they lived. How long they tarried, we are not informed.

Tliey were remnants of a people, Sweeping westward, wild and woeful. Like the cloud-rack of a tompebt, Like the withered leaves in autumn; They are gone - 'tis hoped they're blest, With rtst among their people, With the joys they t'er were hopeful As they prized their ancestral token.

McKendree M. E. Church is situated about four miles from the city, in a southwest direction. The society was organized about the year 1815. The first members were John Springer, and wife, Cornelius Springer, Philip Russell, and wife, Joseph Rodman, andfamily, John Johnson, Mrs. WiUiam Bisant, Widow Smith, FrankHn Bisant, and wife, David Oliver, and wife.

The subsequent members were : Thomas Wilber, and family, Ichabod Wilber, and family, Richard Reed, and family, Joseph Butler, and family, Samuel Simmons, and family, Joshua Huff, and wife ; the following were members of the congregation : Richard Dickinson, and family, James Williams, and family, Robert Canon, and family-

Fine Wooled Sheep

Dr. Increase Mathews was the first, in this township, to engage in growing fine wooled sheep. This was about 1820. He obtained his start, in this stock, from Vermont, and was very successful, although he did not continue in the business many years. In 1843, he, in company with William Baldwin, of Putnam, employed Sanford Howard, to go to Massachusetts, and purchase short horned Durham cattle, male and female, also Herefords.

Mrs. Merriam, relict of Cyrus Merriam, and grand daughter of Gen'l. Rufus Putnam, narrates that her husband came to Springfield, when about twenty-one years old, and engaged in the mercantile business. He subsequently bought a fruit farm, about two miles southwest of town, about 1826, and resided thei-e at the time of his death, in November 1873. In 1828, he purchased a flock of sheep, from Dr. Mathews, and for a few years gave attention to wool growing.

The fi^rst farm implements were home made, or nearly so. Plows had wooden mould boards ; harrow teeth were made of wood; ha}^ forks of the same, constituted by splitting the end of a piece of wood, adapted for a handle, and thus making two prongs which were smoothed and pointed. The fii-st improvement in hay forks was made by blacksmiths, and was a notable event. This" improvement, and the patent, or -cast iron mould-board for plows, was brought into use in 1825. Harrow teeth were made of iron somewhat earlier, perhaps as early as 1810.

The Springfield Chapel

A society of Methodist Protestants was organized in 1827, and, before building a place of worship, held meetings in a log house that had been used by Solomon Wylie as a dwelling. They first built on a piece of ground owned by Ligget Grav, and leased by Solomon Wylie, whose son.

Abraham, dubbed the meeting house "Solomon's Temple," because his father was instrmental in oi'ganizing the society, and many of the old settlers - and younger ones, too, for that matter - continue to call it "The Temple," or "Solornp^n's Temple." This edifice was built about the year 1835, ^^'-^ was a frame building, thirty bj^ forty feet.

The first members were : Joseph Rodman and wife, Ligget Gray and wife, Samuel Johnson and wife, John Johnson and wife, John Springer and wife.

A Sabbath School was organized by this society, in 1838. At that time there were twenty-five scholars ; at this time the average attendance is ninety. The present Superintendent is William Hibbs. The number of church members is about one hundred. Regular services and preaching eveiy two weeks.

Highways Pikes

The National road, from Washington City, D. C, to St. Louis, Missouri, was built across the northeast corner of Springfield township, in 1828. Neil, Moore & Co., "put a line of stages" on this part of the road in 183 1 . William Lloyd was the first driver.

Pataskala Mills

In the year 1830, Isaac Dillon erected a large mill in the northeastern part of the township, at the mouth of the Licking river, and called it the Pataskala Mill. It contained one pair of buhrs, and the necessary additional machinery for the manufacture of wheat and buckwheat flour and corn meal. 'The mill has received important additions since that date, and does a large business.

Association For The Recovery Of Stolen

February 23d, 1833, Jacob Reese, Edward Rex, Anthony Smith, Samuel Seamans, and John Fogle formed a society, under the name of the " Springfield Association for the Recovery of Stolen Horses, and the Detection of the Thief or Thieves." They evidently regarded this as an important matter, which should be governed by fixed rules and regulations, for they adopted a constitution, with rules and regulations, for their government, in which the duties of the members and officers were specifically defined, and all with the evident intention of being not only law abiding, but, under the construction of the rights, privileges and duties of American citizenship, they were to enforce the laws insulting the safetj' of their property and the suppression of crime.

Section 3 of the constitution provides : "Every member who shall go in pursuit of stolen horses, shall keep a regular account of all his routes and expenses, which accounts he shall hand to the Treasurer within ten days after his return."

Section 4 says : "Any member being notified to go in pursuit of stolen horses, if he has not suf- .ficient money by him, may borrow any amount up to five dollars upon the credit of this company, and all such loans the society bind themselves to pay, and if, after paying his expenses, he shall have a balance left, he shall hand it over to the Treasurer, with his accounts, for settlement, and if, upon examination of the accounts, there shall still be a balance in favor of the company, he shall pay the same upon being demanded by the Treasurer, and if he shall refuse or neglect to pay the same, the Treasurer shall collect it by law, in the same manner as debts under five dollars are collected."

"The Western Recorder" was the only paper ever published in Springfield township. This paper was published by Rev. Cornelius Springer, at his home - "Meadow Farm" - about six miles west of the city of Zanesville, July i8th, 1833. In 1845, it passed into the hands of A. H. Bassett, who removed it to Putnam, and continued to publish it until 1855, when it was transferred to the Methodist Protestant Church, it being devoted to expounding the doctrines and usages of that church. Mr. Bassett i-eceived for the estabHshment the sum of $1,250.

In September, 1855, the establishment was removed to Springfield, Clark county, Ohio. The paper, from this time, was called the "Western Methodist Protestant." Mr. Bassett continued to edit and publish the paper until November, i860, when, by act of the Convention of the church, held at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the editorial and business departments of the paper were put into separate hands, and Dr. George Brown was elected editor and A. H. Bassett made the pubHshing agent.

In November, 1862, Dr. Brown was succeeded in the editorial department, by Dennis B. Dorsey. Jr., who, in October, 1864, resigned, and was succeeded by John Scott. At the Gen^ eral conference, held at Alleghany, Pennsylvania, in 1866, a union of the Methodist Proleslant Church, and the Wesleyans was effected, under the name of the "Methodist Church," and the name of the paper was changed to that of "Methodist Recorder." At a meeting of the Board of Publication, at Springfield, in May, 1870, Mr. Scott tendered his resignation, to take effect .September ist, 1870, and Alexander Clark was elected to succeed him.

At a session of the General Conference, held at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in May, 1871, it was decided to transfer the paper and "the book concern" to that place. The last issue of the "Methodist Recorder," at Springfield, was October 25th, 1871. The first issue at Pittsburgh,

Dr. Clark discharged the duties of editor from September, 1871, till his death, in Juty, 1879, which occurred at the residence of Governor Colquitt, in Atlanta, Georgia. After the death of Dr. Clark, John Scott, D.D., was again chosen editor, which position he has continued to fill. - [George W. Barnett.]

The postoffice at Meadow Farm was at the printing office of the "Western Recorder, "about six miles west of the city of Zanesville, in 1839. Rev. C. Springer was appointed Postmaster. The office was discontinued in 1845.

Meadow Farm Church (Methodist Protestant) is situated about six miles southwest of the city of Zanesville, on land donated by Rev. Cornelius Springer. The society was organized in 1854. The first members were Rev. Cornelius Springer and wife, Joseph Rodman and family, John Springer and family, Jeremiah Springer and family, and Mrs. Ellen Wortman.

Rev. Cornelius Springer was born in Wilmington, Delaware, about the year 1793, and came to this township with his father, John Springer, in 1806. When a young man, he was converted, and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, soon after, became an itinerant preacher - perhaps in 1816. He continued in this work as long as he was able for duty, and died August 17th, 1875, in the eighty-fourth year of his age. His career of public usefulness began in the school-room. When the division of the church took place, in 1829, he identified himself with the moiety known as the Methodist Protestants, and led off as editor and publisher of the "Western Recorder," the organ of the church, an account of which is given elsewhere in this chapter.

The Cincinnati, Wilmington and Zanesville, subsequently the Cincinnati and Muskingum Vallej' Railroad, was built across the east end of the township, in 1854. ^^'^^ leading citizens of Putnam were prominent contributors to the building of this road.

The first organization not having sufficient means for building the road, it was mortgaged, and thus the money for building and equipping was raised. The mortgage was foreclosed and the road sold, at a great reduction - below cost. It is now leased to the Pennsylvania Company, and is under the control and management of the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and St. Louis Railwaj- Company.

Geological

The fine-grained sandstone (number thirteen, in the above section), is a very handsome, light blue stone, very evenly bedded, easily quarried, and has proven to be durable.

On the land of Perry Bolin, section six, in this township, a limoriite ore, six inches thick, is found, at an elevation of fifty-four feet above the. Putnam Hill limestone. This ore is taken to the Zanesville furnace. The following is an analysis bv Prof. Wormley :

In Springfield township, tlie two seams of coal known as the two New Lexington coals (the upper of which is-the equivalent of the great seam of southern Perry county), are almost constantly seen, in their proper horizons. They are worked in many places. They always hold the same position, relatively, to the Putnam Hill limestone. The original and typical Putnam Hill limestone is found in this township, and is easily examined in the dug-way just above the bridge of the Cincinnati and Muskingum Valley Railroad. - [Geological Eeport, 1873, Vol. I, pp. 327-8.]

Clay. - "Fire clay" is found on .the lands of L. H. Dugan and others, near the city, and is gaining the reputation of being a superior quality for lining capsules for foundry purposes. About fourteen hundred tons are annually hauled from Mr. Dugan's to the city. This clay is near the limestone, and both are taken out to good advantage, together. Other clay (potters' clay) of good quality is abundant, and extensively manufactured in this township.

Iron. - Iron ore, from four to six inches thick, has been discovered in several localities, but has not been mined or worked. It may prove very valuable. About the year 1818, James Crosby

Blue limestone. - A stratum about four feet thick extends pretty generally over the township. It is a good building stone, and good lime is made of it.

Sandstone of good variety for building purposes is abundant. Also "firestone." large quantities of which are dressed and shipped to other cities by S. G. McBride, who is also engaged in the manufacture of granite monuments and tombstones. The stone used for the base of these structures being obtained in this township.

Military

War, under General Anthony W'ayne : William H. Moore, enlisted at Northumberland, Pennsylvania, in Captain Cook's company. Rangers, April ist, 1792, discharged at Greencastle, Pennsylvania, April 17th, 1795 ; and Joseph Dorrah, enlisted in 1794, in Captain Bragg' s company. Rangers.

In the Warof 1812 - Colonel Edward Tupper, William H. Moore, John Hempfield, Samuel Simmons, William Manley, Ambrose Josselyn, and Quartermaster Horace Nye.

Company A, Seventy-eighth O. V. I., was raised by Colonel H. D. Munson, Putnam. It is noteworthy that his daughter, Julia, traveled with him when recruiting this company, and it is said was a valuable Aid-de-Camp.

Company B, Seveiity-eighth O. V. I., was raised in Putnam and vicenity, by Z. M. Chandler and G. F. Wiles. Z. M. Chandler was appointed Captain, G. F. Wiles First Lieutenant, and G. D. Munson, Second Lieutenant. Mr. Chandler resigned his position as Superintendent of the Public Schools of Putnam, to go into the army. He was appointed Major of his regiment, at Bolivar, Tennessee, and was soon after promoted to Lieutenant Colonel, but during the Mississippi campaign he was compelled to resign on account of bad health, which he did at Raymond, Mississippi.

Company C, Seventy-eighth O. V. I., April i6th, 1862. He was appointed Lieutenant Colonel, and took command of his regiment on the battle field of Champion Hills, May i6th, 1863. At Atlanta, he was appointed Colonel of his regiment, and during the greater part of the siege he was in command of the Second Brigade. After the South Carolina campaign, he was appointed Brevet Brigadier General, for his efficiency, as well as that of the regiment. On the campaign from Savannah, Georgia, to Goldsboro. North Carolina, he commanded the Second Brigade through terrible hardships and almost unsurmountable difficulties. When the regiment arrived at Washington, D. C, he was promoted to Brevet Brigadier General, on merit alone. He was breveted, also, by act of Congress. He remained with his regiment until the close of the war, and was mustered out of service at Columbus. Ohio, Jvily 15th, 1865. He was said to be one of the best officers in the army.

Company B, of the One Hundred and Fiftyninth O. N. G., was organized in Putnam, in the year 1863. Nearly all of its members lived in Spi-ingfield township. It was equipped and mustered into the United States service in response to the call by Goverrior Brougli, for forty thousand volunteers, for one hundred days. The regiment was mustered in May 9th, 1864. Company B, with the regiment, under orders, proceeded from Zanesville, Ohio, to Harper's Ferry, Virginia, for garrison duty. They were afterwards stationed on Maryland Heights, then at Camp Bradford, Baltimore.

Gilbert D. Munson was appointed Second Lieutenant of Company B, Seventy-eighth O. V. I., at the organization of the regiment, December I2th, 1861, and was appointed Captain of his company September 7th, 1862, and was subsequently detailed on General Leggett's staff', and promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of his regiment, January, 1865. He won a creditable reputation as an officer of more than ordinary ability, and pleasing address. He took command of the regiment at Goldsboro, North Carolina, and led it through to Alexandria, Virginia. His coolness and bravery on the field of battle were almost unequaled. He remained with his command until the close of the war, and was mustered out of service at Columbvis, Ohio, July iSth, 1865.

Charles C. Wiles was appointed First Lieutenant, and assigned as Assistant Quartermaster of the Seventy-eighth regiment, in 1862, and served acceptably to the close of the war.

Charles Roper was appointed Bugler and Chief Musician, and under him the regiment had a band that was unsurpassed by any in the service. His health having failed, and the position of Chief Musician being abandoned, he was mustered out at Lake Providence, Louisiana.

The following officers and soldiers volunteered from Camp Bradford, July 4, 1864, to proceed to Fi'ederick Cit}'. Maryland, as mounted infantry, for the purpose of preventing the enemy from coming into Maryland :

Privates - John J. Ashbaugh, George W. Baughman, James F. Baughman, John Booz, John Curtis, Edward Crowell, William Chilcote, Henry C. Dieterick, John J. Ewen, Geoge B. Ewen, Alphonzo J. Helmuth, Oliver King, Christian Kagaj', Samuel R. Larimer, William J. Lamb, Perry Longshore, William H. Meyers, Louis Munch (who was taken pi-isoner and escaped), Thomas I. Moorhead, John McMillen, John Melor, Sylvanus Mevay, John Mevay, Thomas Myers, Thomas Ross, James W. Terry, John Tomlinson, John Terry, John H. White, and Thomas Webster. They skirmished all day, Friday, July 8th, at the bottom of South Mountain, two miles from Frederick City. July 9th, they fought the enemy, at the battle of Mono-

Putnam Grays

This military company was organized in 1839. The company was well drilled, and made a fine display, in fancy maneuvers, and dress parade. The members were among the most prominent citizens of the township, and the majority of them residents of Putnam.

Jesse P. Hatch was Captain. He was a graduate in the Military School of Norwich, Vermont, under Captain Partridge. The company was, therefore, in good hands, and soon acquired proficiency in the manual then in use, as Captain Hatch was a fine di'ill master. He made the Greys a model company, in so much that the citizens were proud of it. But odd as it may appear, it is impossible to give a regular listof the membership. The last officers were : Captain, William C. Eli ; First Lieutenant, Lawson Wiles ; Ensign, J. C. Cherry. The company disbanded in 1845.

The First Regiment of Muskingum County Militia had its headquarters in this township, and was organized in 1863, under an act of the Legislature passed at the session of 1862-3.

Three companies were raised in Springfield. A. M. Huston, H. B. Taylor, and H. L. Gray, were elected Captains. Captain Taylor's company, was, subsequently, consolidated with the other two.

The regiment was composed of twelve companies, viz : Two in Springfield ; three in Brush Creek (Captains, David Walls, G. B. Minear, and Joseph Boyd) ; one in Clay (Captain G. B. Weaver) ; three in Newton, (Captains H. A. Axline, Geo. W.Jenkins, and James Andei'son) ; and three in Hopewell (Captains William Down, Leroy Robinson, and Joseph Porter).

A. M. Huston was elected Colonel of the regiment; G. W. Showers (of Brush Creek), Lieutenant-Colonel; James Colvin (of Hopewell township). Major; C. A. Merriam (of Springfield), Adjutant; A. C. Brechville (of Newton township), Quartermaster.

Roll Of Honor Of Military Dead Improved Breeds Of Stock

Fine Wooled Sheep. - Dr. Increase Mathews was the first in this township to engage in growing fine wooled sheep. This was about 1820, and he obtained his start in this stock, in Vermont.

Cyrus Merriam, who came from Brandon, Vermont, when about twenty-one years of age, and-engaged in merchandising - soon after married the grand-daughter of General Rufus Putnam, now a widow, in her Seventy-seventh year, and to whom we are indebted for this information - in the year 1826, purchased a fruit farm, about two miles southwest of town, and lived there until he died, in November, 1873. In 1828, Mr. Merriam purchased a flock of sheep from Dr. Mathews, and for a few years gave attention to wool growing. In 1843, he and William Baldwin, of Putnam, employed Sandford Howard to go to Massachusetts and purchase for them, and bi'ing to this place, some Durham cattle, for breeding ; also, some Herefords. Mr. Merriam then engaged in raising stock of those varieties, but soon after confined his attention to the shorthorned, and was very successful. He continued in the business as long as he lived, and his sons became his successors.

Devons. - In 1864, James Buckingham began growing this highly prized breed of cattle, and subsequently associated with L. H. C. Howard, and continued in the business. Their stock is valueid highly, for breeding purposes, and some of their strains have found purchasers at a considerable distance away.

Source changes here: from History of Muskingum County, Ohio, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches of Prominent Men and Pioneers, by Various, published 1882; 2,131 words in this source stream.

Perry Township

The first home made within the boundary of Perry township, was by James Brown, Sr., from Massachusetts. who resided for a time in Waterford, in Washington county, but in 1802, built a cabin, and opened a hotel, where the '' Zane Trace'' crossed Big Salt Creek. This road, also called the '* Old Wheeling Road," entered this township on section twenty, and passed out near the southwest corner of the township. Along this road the first settlements were made. Mr. Brown was ''a manof means," and of more than ordinary intelligence, and thereby acquired considerable influence, in the neighbor hood, and offered no inconsiderable opposition to the dominion of Isaac Pryor, who kept hotel further west, on the same highway. David Comstock came and settled on the southeast quarter of section eighteen, just west of Mr. Brown, in 1804, the place since occupied by William Caw. Abraham Gabriel, and his son, Reuben, came from Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1807, and bought five hundred acres of land, in the Johnson four thousand acre purchase, and located on the Wheeling road, the site now occupied by R. H. Atkinson. Amasa Davis came during this year

Samuel Bowers. And during this year, also, John Echelberry came fom Green county, Pennsylvania, and entered the northeast quarter of section six. He was unable to pay for the tract, however, and sold it to George Border, in 1810, removing to the southwest quarter of the same section, Jacob Livingood settled, first, in Washington township, in 1806, and, in 1807, sold out to Joseph Bowers, and came to this township, and settled on section twelve, he built a saw mill, and, soon after, a grist mill, on Salt Creek. Joseph Dicker came in 1808, and settled, probably, on section nine. In 1809, John Wartenbee came from Wellsburg, West Virginia, and built a small saw mill on Salt Creek.on the southwest quarter of section twentytwo, in 1810, and built asmall grist mill, in 1812. Peter Livingood came from Green county, Pennsylvania, and located on the Wheeling road, in 1810; the property passed, subsequently, to Howard Dunn, The same year came, also, Jacob Vanpelt, and located on the place now occupied by George Little, and Simon Merwine, |

James Brown, Jr., on the northeast quarter of section twenty. Alexander Armstrong came from Armagh, Ireland, and located on. the Wheeling road, in 1810, land Samuel Connaway came about this time. Aaron Vernon moved from Washington township to the northeast quarter of section five, in 1811; and during the same year, a Mr. Harris came from Pennsylvania, and located on the northwest quarter of section twenty ; anda Mr. Engle on the northeast quarter of section nineteen, on the Wheeling road. 'The country settled up so rapidly, from this date, that the '' oldest inhabitants" fear to undertake to give a correct list of the incoming tide,

Notably, the first cabin was erected by James Brown, Sr., sometimes called Luke Brown; it was where the '' Zane Trace'' crossed Salt Creek, and was erected in 1802.

The first brick building was erected by Walls, in 1819. The next was by Mr. Kaufman, in 1820. The latter was afterwards occupied by Michael Sauerbaugh.

The first Marriage. - ''The high contracting parties" were Christopher Shuck and Mary Livingood, and the dignified official who pronounced the twain one flesh, was Christian Spangler ; time, ''an early day."

The first school house was the conventional log cabin, with puncheon floor, etc., on the Comstock place; and the first school teacher was Simon Merrin, who taught in 1811, and was 'every inch a gentleman."

The first store was kept by James Brown, on the Wheeling road, in 1834. The next was by Phillip Bastian, on the National road, west of Bridgeville, in 1840. This store was subsequently successively owned by Richard Hall, John W. Winn, George Winn, Stephen Tudor, I. N,

The first tavern was kept by James Brown, in 1802, the first cabin mentioned. Hisson, Majot James Brown, also kept tavern on thesame road in 1810.

The first blacksmith was Jacob Wisecarver, who lived on Peter Livingood's land, southwest of the site now occupied by Sonora. This was probably in r81r. Amasa Davis was also an early knight of the forge, and by some, claimed to have been the first; but his fire went out so long ago that no trace remains to indicate the

Perry township was organized in 1812, and named in honor of Commodore Oliver H. Perry. Geographically considered, it is the ''Military District; is five miles square, bounded on the north by Salem township, east by Union township, south by Salt Creek and Wayne townships, the dividing line between Perry and the latter township is the '*Military Base line," and on the west by Washington township, and constitutes town one, range five of that district. Topographically this township is not hilly, but undulating ; the soil is limestone clay, with sand, and yields good crops. The entire township is drained by Salt Creek and its tributaries, Little Salt Creek, White Eyes Run, and numerous smaller streams. Springs are numerous, and the water is good. The National Pike passes through the township from the northeast quarter of section eleven, in a general western direction, and is thevonl Pike in the township. It was completed in 1829.

Railroad

The Central Ohio. Division of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad enters this township (Perry) on the southeast quarter of section ten, and leaves it on the northwest quarter of section fifteen, traversing a distance of six miles. It_has a station and water tank at Sonora.

Feet. Inches. 1. Laminated sandstone..... ..s.....cecesshoraooe 6 0 ae DISC OUNIG ctu AL vied aes dbeeee tO a LO 8. Coal, Caldwell coal, Alexander seam..... 2 11 4. Under-clay and shale...........-sseseceseeeeoe oe tue Fe Ob BCOT cerectnes sues ree aceavscscertensanassarcceaeh it) 0 6. Limestone and siderite ore...... SEL Br Gore:

This analysis shows this to be a very superior coal. The fixed carbon is large and the sulphur small. It has been tried in a small way, in the Zanesville furnace, with approval. So far as analysis has been made, the coal is found to be the purest in that part of the county belonging to the Second District, and is one of the best coalsin the State. At many other points, the coal of this seam is much less pure.

The following geological section was taken on the land of Mr. Crane, about one mile south of F. Dunn's, near the line between Perry and Salt

The coal No. four, in this section, could not be examined, the old opening having fallen in, - [Geological Report, 1873, volume 1, pp. 333-4 ands. E. B. Andrews, Assistant Geologist. ]

The First Saw And Grist Mills

The first saw and grist mills were built by Christopher Shuck, in 1807, for Jacob Livingood, on Salt Creek, just below where the National Pike now crosses that stream. 'Notwithstanding its primitive character, Livingood's mill was hailed as a decided acquisition. The Livingoods have since built several mills, on the same stream, but they have been given a "SFeet.t

John Wartenbee had a small grist mill, on Salt Creek, lower down than Livingood's, butit, too, has ceased. Salt Creek no longer turns the busy wheels ; the naiads now may claim its pools for bathing.

Wesley Chapel M. E. Church

of John Bowers, and wife, Barbara, with their sons, Peter, Nicholas, Henry, and Samuel, and daughters, Catharine and Mary, John Vernon, and Elizabeth, his wife, Jacob Walters, and Alice, his wife, Aaron Vernon, and Susan, his wife, William, John, Wells, Elijah, Edward,

John Spry was class leader. They met from house to house, until 1816, when they were' permitted to use the school house, just built, and they continued to meet there, until 1823, when they built a hewed log meeting house, on. the Bowers place, and on that account it was called the Bowers Meeting House, for many years.

In 1846, a new church, 40x58, of frame, was built on the northeast quarter of section six, near Sonora, Perry township, and the congregation gathered there and worshiped.

The present number of members is ninety. The Leaders, John Auchauer, Cummins Orr, and Edward Bowers. The Stewards are, Nicholas' Bowers, and John Auchauer. The pastor, Rev. Wm. Peregoy, of Norwich.

Ebenezer M. E. Church

This society was organized by Joseph Carper, in 1827, with the following members: Andrew Dewees, and wife, Isaiah Carr, and wife, Christopher Shuck, and wife, Edmund Northen, and wife, and '' Mother Spry."'

In 1828, the society erected a hewed log church, 30x38, which they weather-boarded, plastered, and painted. Some years afterward, the church was named, Ebenezer M. E. Church, though it is generally known as *' Carr's Church." Rey. Gilbert Blue preached the first sermon, in the new church. Edmund Northen was Exhorter, Isaiah Carr was Leader.

In 1830, the membership was about thirty, and four years later the society had doubled its membership. At this time the Leaders were, Isaiah Carr, and Samuel Garner ; and, during this year, Carr was appointed Circuit Steward.

The foregoing statistics were furnished by Isaiah Carr, whose age rendered him almost too infirm for the task ; he was near 87 years of age, and scarcely able to see, but his spiritual lamp is '* well trimmed and burning."

About the year 1830, Rev. Samuel Kaemmerer preached occasionally at the house of George Border,and formed a small class, composed of George Border, and family, John Auspach, and family, and Lorenzo Shick. George Border, and Robert Dickson, deeded one acre of ground. situated on the north line, between sections seven and fourteen, and, on this, a log church, 20x30, was erected. In 1836, the society contained the following additional members; J. F. Sutter, Jacob Folk, Nicholas Lockers, Phillip Bastian, Casper Brock, Jacob Shick, John Hewett, Michael Sauerbaugh, Andrew Sandel, Anna M. Sutter, Martha Stiers, Elizabeth Crane, and Dorothea Kerner.

The log church stood until 1856, when a new plat of ground, just east of the old site, was secured from John Culbertson, and a frame church, 34X44, was erected, under the superintendence of Michael Sauerbaugh, Bartley Sutter, and Michael Sandel, Trustees.

Rey. Samuel Kaemmerer, preached until 1852, and was followed by Rev. Amos Bartholomew, who ministered two years, and Rev. A. J. Weddel, three years. The church was dedicated by Rev's. James Ryan, and A. Bartholomew. Rev. George Leusabaugh, was installed in 1856, and remained until 1860, and was succeeded by Rev. W. M. Gilbreath, who served six years, and was succeeded by Rev. Thos. Drake, who served until 1869, and was followed by Rev. W. M. Gilbreath, (second term), who began in 1873, and continues their pastor.

Postoffice Of Bridgeville

Anno Domini, 1833, application was made to the Postmaster General, for a postoffice. The petition was granted, and Andrew Hughes, who lived near the bridge, on the National Road, was appointed. Postmaster, and the office was called Bridgeville Postoffice, and thus the hamlet of Bridgeville was founded. It contains two stores, kept by A. L. Turney, and Hugh Huff: two blacksmith shops, by Lewis and Hugh Huff, and one shoe shop, by T. L. Stiers. . Its commanding situation argues a bright future. The postoffice has since alternated between Bridgeville and the store at the cross roads, half a mile west, where it now is. R. F. Huffis Postmaster.

John Brown was the original proprietor of this town site; it was laid out in 1852, by Isaac Stiers. There are now two stores, kept by the Haines brothers, and Mrs. Bowers; one hotel, kept by Robert Dunn; this was the first house - built by Solomon Bowers - now known as *'Dunn's Hotel; one express and freight office, Miss M. Bowers, agent: one broom factory, by Allen Dunn; two blacksmiths, F. B. Farley, and G. W. Watts ; one shoemaker, C. W. Jones ; one carpenter, John Erwirf; one stone mason, | John Whitcraft ; the postoffice, Miss Media Bowers, Postmistress : one physician, J. D. Jennings,

The postoffice at Sonora, was established in 1855 ; Evan Crane was the first Postmaster. He was succeeded by Adam Turney ;he, by Solomon Bowers, in 1862; he served six years, and died. J. Probasco then acted as Postmaster, for six months, when Hester, Solomon Bowers' widow, was appointed,and served eleven years,when she died, and was succceeded by her daughter Media, the present incumbent.

The first resident physician in the township, was Dr. J. S. Halderman; he was succeeded by F. H. Jennings, who remained until 1865, when Dr. J. D. Jennings came, and continues to hold the fort. .

The following list is a just source of pride to the citizens of old Perry as an evidence of her patriotism. She sent her sons, brothers, and

One Hundred and Ninety-fifth O. V. I. - David Dunn, and Howard Johnston - Martin Bowers, Robert Stotts (colored) - John Martin, William Evans, C. H. Craig, J. W. Winn, Alfred Shamblin.