Ross Township (part 1 of 2)

Ross Township

A little over half a mile distant from this work is another enclosure, located on the farm of J. C. Andrews, in section thirteen. A plan of this work is given in Fig. 54, and on the map is marked by the letter M. This is one of the two works of Butler County possessing double walls. It differs from the other (marked K on the map) in having two instead of one ditch. The outer wall point the inner embankment is very prominent, and the ditch quite deep. The bank of the river at this point is perpendicular, or nearly so, and is about seventy feet high. On the other side the walls iire carried to the bank of Big Run, the point c, of the outer wall, having been carried down to a lower level. The bank of the stream is inaccessibly steep, being fifty or sixty feet high. These walls embrace an area of a little less than eighteen acres.

The large mound, over which passes the inner wall, is a natural formation, composed of gravel, with a thin layer of soil, and is about thirty feet high. It has been opened and a portion of the gravel taken to complete a neighboring road. The small mound, marked M in the plan, is composed of burnt limestone, gravel and sand, and is supposed to belong to that class of mounds denominated ^^sacrificial. ^' Forty years ago it was ten feet in height, but now is not over six or seven, having been plowed over for many years. A human skeleton and pieces of pottery have been taken from it. In company with Mr. R. Brown I visited this work at the same time we examined '^Fortified Hill," and although the enclosure was thickly covered with clover, yet almost at any spot we were able to pick up ])ieces of pottery made out of clay and burnt shells. Whether this pottery was made by the Mound Builders or the Indians we were unable to determine.

It has been suggested that the large mound was used for a signal station. It is possible that such may have been the case. From it a view of the river may be obtained for a considerable distance in both directions.

It should be noted that in 1866 the river changed its bed at this point. At that time it cut a new channel to the southeast, and the old bed no longer directs the

The work given in Fig. 55, marked IS" on the map, is now almost wholly obliterated. It was situated on sections twenty-seven and thirty-four, on the farms of B. T. Bedinger, M. A. Carnaham andR. Wade. It was surveyed in 1847 by James McBride and John W. Erwin. They describe it to have been a perfect circle, enclosing an area of twenty-six acres. The embankment was two feet high, composed of earth taken up evenly from the surface, or else brought from a distance. There was an entrance to the west two hundred and seventyfive feet wide, and upon either hand the embankment terminated in a small mound, between four and five feet high. At the eastern part of the wall was a gatcAvay, the width of which is not given. The plain upon which the work occurs is about fifty feet above the adjacent bottoms. The area of the enclosure is level, and was covered with forest trees, although small, owing to the nature of the soil, which is thin and gravelly.

The mound towards the north, with one hundred and fifty feet of its accompanying embankment, still remain.-; in a grove. The rest is obliterated, owing to the forest having been cleared away and the land cultivated.

Between this work and the one last described, Mr. Erwin states, there is or was another, but the location has passed out of his memory. It was similar, in construction, to that near Jones^ Station. In the hopes of finding it I visited the locality on the eleventh of August. I made diligent inquiry of the people in the neighborhood, among whom was Judge Fergus Anderson, but he knew nothing of it. It is probable that the w^alls were low and long since plowed down, and as no particular interest is taken in that immediate vicinity in archseology, such a matter would easily pass out of recollection.

Mr. Brown visited and located forty-nine mounds in this township, and found them to vary in height from eighteen inches to twenty-six feet. These mounds are almost wholly located in the southern half of the township. Section thirty-two contains nine, the largest of which is seven feet high by forty-five feet base, being situated in a woods on the farm of John Evans. A shaft was sunk into tliis mound, which extended to the original soil, but only a thin layer of charcoal and ashes was met with, and that near the bottom. On an adjoining farm belonging to Mr. Evans, on the point of a hill, occurs a small stone mound. A similar mound likewise situated is on the farm of William Brown. Near by is a stone circle, thirty feet in diameter, with a base of eight feet and an elevation of seven or eight inches. On the farm is still another mound located in an old field, and but 17 .

little elevated above the surrounding surface, having been plowed over until its appearance, as a mound, is almost obliterated. That it is an artificial mound is evident from the burned earth, the broken shuttles and pieces of pottery that have been found in it. A mound was once located on the farm of Benjamin Brown. Where it stood is now a farm house. In making the excavation for the foundation and cellar it was found necessary to remove it, and during the excavation several stone and bone implements were found, also a skeleton of the ordinary size. Directly over these human remains stood a white oak tree, three feet in diameter. A short distance west of this is another mound (on the farm of William Brown), but, having been plowed over for the last fifty years, is now quite low. Another mound on the same farm is situated on the low ground of the township, being only a few feet above high water mark of the Miami River. It occurs on the face of a low gravelly ridge. Before being disturbed by the plow it is now supposed to have been six feet in height by fifty feet base, but during the last seventy-five years it has been under cultivation, w^hich, together with the action of the elements, has reduced it almost to a level with the ridge. On excavating this mound the skeletons of both adults and children were found. Those found at the bottom of the mound appeared to have been placed there with considerable care. Some had their bodies reclining with the hands thrown over the head, and the knees drawn up. There were two exceptions to this. One had the head resting in the center of the mound with the feet extended to the northwest. The other was ten feet, distant with the head to the northwest, and near the outer circle of the mound. The color of this skeleton differed from that of the rest. It appeared red, as though it had been stained with carmine or Venetian red. The gravel immediately surrouuding it partook of the same color. These two skeletons were found three feet below the original surface. With the former, and surrounding the neck, occurred several perforated teeth of animals, which were used for a necklace or string of beads, and about

The skeletons above these were deposited without any perceptible order, the bones being more or less charred, showing that cremation had been practiced, or else human sacrifices offered. A peculiurity of six or eight of the crania consisted in having the occipital bone flattened. This peculiarity is also noticed in some of the skulls Avhich have been taken from the banks of the Great Miami. The relics found with the remains consisted of pestles, fleshcrs, hatchets, tubes of stone and of baked clay - the clay crumbling as soon as disturbed - flint implements, chips of chert, chalcedony and slate, whistles made from buck's horn, needles and awls of the same, and other bone implements.

It was in this mound that the wand given in Fig. 43 was found. It did not occur with any of the skeletons, although it was on a level with the two mentioned, three feet below the original surface, and in conjunction with a rude pestle and a buck's horn implement, eight inches in length. A small mound also occurs on the land of Henry Grabel.

In section thirty are five mounds, all of which are now small. The two on the farm of Matthias Reisch are quite small, one of which is two feet in height by twentyfive feet in diameter. One foot beneath the top is a layer of burnt clay, which, when raised with a mattock, comes up in large lumps. It bears the marks of having grass or weeds mixed with it, which, on being subjected to the action of fire, burns out and leaves its mould on the clay. This clay is in a silicious condition, presenting the appearance similar to that of brick which has been burned in the arch of the kiln. Two mounds occur on the farm of Murat Halstead, both in open fields. Tiiey are about five feet in height by sixty feet in diameter at the base. There is a mound near the northwestern corner of the section, on the farm of Colonel Griffin Halstead. It has been plowed over and its original size greatly reduced. Near this mound was once an aboriginal village. A vast number of implements of all varieties have been picked up here, and from this spot Colonel Halstead made his collection. Some of the finest specimens he donated to McBride's cabinet, under the impression that the cabinet should never leave the county.

Section twenty-nine contains three monnds, the largest being ten feet in height by sixty feet in diameter at the base. It is located on the farm of E. N. Demoret. On the farm of O. Brown, in a field, is a mound about six feet in height. The one on the farm of James R. Timberman is in an open field, and has been plowed over until it is not over three feet high.

Section seventeen contains three mounds : the largest is twelve feet high by seventy feet in diameter at the base. It is located on the farm of James Wynn. The farm of Nicholas Bachman contains two, the larger being about ten feet in height.

In the northeast quarter of section eighteen, and on the farm of Peter Minton, is a mound that was opened many years ago by Samuel Demoret. He cut a trench through it and found what had the appearance of a stone back-wall or fire-place with coals and ashes against it. Besides these, bones and pieces of pottery were unearthed. At the present time the mound is but slightly elevated above the surrounding surface.

tration gives the relative sizes^ positions and distances of the mounds composing the group. The group is situated on the highest point of hind in the township, and from the summit of the hirgest mound a view of the surrounding country can be obtained. To the east, if the forest trees did not intervene, the city of Hamilton could be seen ; while to the south it overlooks the Colerain hills. Its position indicates that it was used as a signal station. A fire on the mound on Wilson's hill, section thirty-one, of St. Clair Township, would be instantly seen, and then the watchman on this mound would warn the people of the valley to flee to the forts in that vicinity. This mound would serve as the signal station for all the enclosures in the township, also a part of those in Fairfield and the Colerain works in Hamilton County.

^^About the year 1820 this mound was opened by a man named Young, assisted by the Keever brothers, in hopes of finding a treasure-chest. They worked only during the hours of darkness, and in perfect silence, in the belief that the chest never could be reached if a word was spoken while at work. A story was started, and believed by many, that the chest was finally discovered, when one of the excited diggers exclaimed : ^IVe got it at last!' whereupon it slipped from his fingers and vanished, leaving a smell of brimstone in the air.

" The tunnel was started on the north side, about half way up the slope, and ran downwards at an angle of thirty-five degrees, for a distance of thirty feet, when the center was reached, from which point it was carried eastwardly several feet. It was stated at the time that the center of the mound gave the appearance of having been once a hut formed of leanino; timbers to sustain the great weight of earth. Within this vault were found a stone back-wall, coals and ashes, and human bones.

^^ Sometime after the Avork had been abandoned, a party of young fellows concluded to take a look at the })lace, but on their arrival at the mouth of the tunnel they heard unearthly groans^ and the rattling of chains.

They staid to see or hear no more^ but ran for home frightened ahnost out of their wits. Wonderful stories of ghosts and hobgoblins were soon told in connection with the mound. However, it soon leaked out that a mischievous young fellow had provided himself Avith chains and entered the tunnel in advance of the party for the purpose of frightening them."

Seventy-five yards east of the large mound is another seven feet high by sixty-five feet in diameter at the base. The same distance southwest of the big mound is another mound about six feet high. Half of it is in a woods.

Two mounds are noted in section twenty -two, southwest quarter, on the school lands belonging to Crosby Township, Hamilton County. A mound also on the fiirm of S. D. Hedges about five feet in height.

On the farm of B. T. Bedinger, section twenty-seven, in a grove, a few rods north of the circular works (Fig. 55), are three low mounds close together, and on a line running east and west.

Partly in section twenty-six and jiartly in section twenty-three, on the farms of R. AYade and eTames Anderson, are three large mounds close together, and on a line Avith each other, running north and south. On the lower bottom terrace, oj^posite to each mound, is a corresponding hole or excavation, from which the earth composing the mounds, it has been supposed, was taken.

Mr. Brown has jiaid considerable attention to what he calls "firebeds.'' He describes these to have been pits sunk into the ground to the depth of from six to twelve feet, with a diameter of from four to five feet. The bottom of these pits are covered to a de])th of two or three feet with river-washed limestone, which presents the appearance of having been dumped or loosely thruwn in.

These stones bear the traees of fire, and the sides of the Avails are charred. The space intervening between the stone and the surfiice is filled up with soil. Within them pieces of pottery have been discovered.

The '^firebeds'^ are traced through the level lands of sections thirty-four and thirty-three, beginning at the mouth of Indian Creek, and extending into Hamilton County. In these sections they are very numerous. The river here continually encroaches upon its bank, and every year it exposes other pits. In draining a pond, although the ditch was less than a mile in length, yet three of these ^'firebeds'^ were exposed. Crossing the river at the mouth of Indian Creek, into Fairfield Township, they are again met with, extending northward to the mouth of Bank Creek. They are again met with in the low lands of that part of St. Clair Township, south of the city of Hamilton.

Morgan forms the southwestern township of the county. Reily joins it on the north, Ross on the east, Hamilton County on the south, and on the west it extends to the Indiana line.

The land is very much broken, but mnst be fertile in order to sustain so large an agricultural population. Dry Fork of White Water Creek runs through it in a southeastern direction ; also Paddy's Run and Howard's Creek.

No enclosures occur in this township, and only eight mounds are noticed. In the southeast quarter of section fourteen, on the flirm of Robert Reese, is a mound four feet high by forty-five feet in diameter at the base. It is in an open field, and has never been disturbed save by the plow. It is located on a hill overlooking the valley of Paddy's Run.

Near the center of section twenty-eight, on the farm of Thomas Griffis, is a mound four feet high by fifty feet base. It is in an open field.

southwest quarter^ near the south line. It is twelve feet in height by seventy feet in diameter at the base. The top of the mound lias been removed, and a shaft sunk into it, but not far enough to reach the bottom. Ashes, charcoal and pieces of pottery were thrown out. Near the center of the section, and on the same farm, is another mound. It is five feet high and fifty feet in width. On the farm of George Wynn is a mound, in the woods, of the same dimensions as the above. The remaining mound is in the northeastern part cf the section, on the farm of Charles Shields, and measures four feet in height by forty feet in diameter. These mounds are all on high ground, the three last mentioned overlooking the valley of Drv Fork of White Water.

Two other mounds occur, one in section nine, on the farm of Z. T. Whipple, and the other on the farm of William Pugh, in section four. Their dimensions are not ascertained.

In the southwestern quarter of section eighteen, Frank Myers observed a stone which excited his curiosity, and, in order to satisfy himself, dug it up, and found it to be surrounded by a stone circle five feet in diameter. On removing the stone he found traces of fire under them. A similar stone occurs across the brook.

This township is located immediately north of Morgan, and joins the south line of Oxford Townshi]). Bounding it on the east is Hanover, aud on the west is the Indiana line. Indian Creek passes diagonally through it, fiowing southeast, and cutting a deep valley in the northAvestern part of the township. In places the valley is broad, in others narrow, ])rescnting banks over an hundred feet in height. The bed of tlie creek is generally couiposed of drift material, with an occasional ()ut('ro])i)iug of limestone. The streaui has detached hills from the level country, which have the appearauce of great oblong mounds, the length of the hill extending parallel with the

The township contains two enclosures, both situated on the farm of James Davis, in section twenty-two, on a hill overlooking the village of Reily. Indian Creek passes between the hill and the village. The valley at this point is narrow, and the village hemmed in by hills. The enclosures are east of the village. On the north is a small stream, along which is the road to Wood^s Station. The bank on the west is perpendicular, and about seventyfive feet high. On the north, commencing at Indian Creek, it is also perpendicular, but as the road ascends the hill the bank becomes sloping, until the level land is reached. At the northwest corner is a "way,^' formed by the junction of the two streams, over which we ascended the hill. That part of the hill on which the enclosures are located is covered with forest trees. The larger of the two earth-works is a rectangle sixty -five feet long and fifty feet wide. The wall is about eighteen inches high and unaccompanied by a ditch. The interior of the work is slightly below the surrounding surface, thus leading to the conclusion that the earth composing the wall was taken up from within the enclosure. A peculiarity of the work consists in having no gateway. There must have been some method of obtaining entrance. Perhaps this was remedied by a gateway in the palisades, which probably were erected on top of the wall. Instead of the square corners, the wall is rounding at the angles. A beech and a sugar tree, each five feet in circumference, are growing on the wall.

After we had made a report on this work. Dr. D. D. Borger, in searching for it, discovered another enclosure situated on the bank of the creek. Both of these works are given in Fig. 57, marked P on the map. Dr. Borger reports that this work is about sixty yards west of the other, situated on a surface that slopes to the south. This work is also a rectangle, measuring thirty feet one way and twenty-four the other, the walls being from twelve to eighteen inches high. The angles are rounding the same as in the other work. A gateway is represented in the south angh^. Of this gateway Dr. Borgersays: ^^I do not think the builders leftan opening in the work ; for the base of the work, in the gateway, can still be seen, and, besides this, the natural slope of the ground would bring all the force of the water, caught within the work, to its lowest part, sometimes causing an overflow, thus more or less cutting down the embankment, and continuing to overflow occasionally for years would eventually wash it down, and give it the appearance of having been left purposely in that state."

On the same farm, a little east of the larger work, in an open field, is a mound six and a half feet high by fifty-eight feet in diameter. It is probable that the mound was not much higher than this, for the field has the appearance of having been cultivated for only a few years. On the same farm, in the northeastern corner is a small mound.

On the hill west of the village of Reily, and near the cemetery, on section twenty-one, located in the woods on the farm of P. Wunder, is a mound ten feet high by fifty feet in diameter. Many years ago this mound was dug into, and many earthen vessels taken from it. An oak tree of considerable size is growing on the side of the mound.

A mound is situated on the Enyart farm, section sixteen, and overlooking tlie village of Reily. This mound Itas been plowed over for many years. It was originally twelve feet high, but has been reduced to about six feet.

Two mounds occur on section twenty-four. The one on the farm of H. Galloway is nine feet high by sixtyfive feet in diameter. Near the top stands a white oak ten feet and five inches in circumference. This mound is located on the table-land, and from its top a view of the hills beyond Indian Creek may be obtained. West of

In the northeastern corner of section twenty-six once stood a mound. On removing it twenty-four human skeletons were found. These were arranged in a circle with the heads pointing towards the center.

On the farm of J. B. Morris, section seventeen, is a mound four feet high by forty-two feet in diameter, located in the woods. On its top is a sugar tree eight feet in circumference. This mound stands almost on the brow of the bank of Indian Creek. At this point the bank has almost a perpendicular declivity of one hundred feet.

Section eight contains four mounds, three of which are located on the flirm of Samuel Landon. All are situated on high land, being about one hundred and thirty feet above Indian Creek, and overlooking the valley for a great distance. Two of these mounds have been plowed over for the last forty-five years. Mr. Landon states that the one on the brow of the hill was originally about twelve feet high. Charcoal and several large spearheads have been plowed out, but the bottom has not been reached. The other mound is located in the woods. It is about four feet high. A few years ago a poplar tree, twenty-one feet in circumference, stood on the mound. A trench from the west has been cut into the mound and reaching the center, but no relics Avere discovered. Across the creek, and on the Smith farm, is the fourth mound, about six feet high. It is located in the woods.

On the farm of J. B. Millikin, section five, is a mound nine feet high by fifty-five feet in diameter. Near the top is a beech tree seven feet four inches in circumference. A few rods north is a depression or excavation called a '^bear-pit.'^ It is filled with water during most of the year.

By the foregoing enumeration and a glance at the map, it will be noticed that all of these mounds, with one exception, are located along Indian Creek.

Along the creek many Indian graves have been found. Some of these have been filled up with limestone laid with some regularity. Within tlie vicinity of the village of Bunker Hill quite a number have been discovered.

South of the southeastern corner of Bunker Hill, across the creek, and on a prominent detached hill, a stone box was discovered forty years ago. We visited the spot, saw the excavation and some of the limestone which had been thrown out, and noted the surroundings. The hill is oblong, Avith steep declivities, and from the summit a view of the beautiful valley is obtained. All we could learn concerning the box was, ^*There is a mystery concerning it.^' It is probable that the spot was the site of an Indian grave, and the box consisted of limestone, set up on edge and covered with stone of like material, the whole enclosing a skeleton.

On the western side of the creek is an old Indian trail. In section sixteen it passes one-fourth way down the bank of the stream and over the level track made by a land-slide. In section twenty-two the trail appears to divide, one going farther south, and the other folloAving the bank of the stream in its southeastern direction.

This township constitutes the northwestern corner of the county. Preble County is on the north, Milford Township on the east, Reily on the south, and the Indiana state line on the west.

We here meet with high land. The farms are small, and the agricultural population quite large for the territory embraced. With the exception of two. or more sections, the land nominally belongs to Miami University. The trustees of the University "leased the land for ninety-nine years, renewable forever, subject to the

Indian Creek runs through the southwestern corner, and through the eastern part of the township in a southerly direction flows Four Mile Creek. In places the valley of the latter is deep and narrow, and not infrequently presenting bold or precipitous banks.

An ancient fortification occurs on the land of H. H. Wallace, section thirty-six, marked J. on the map. It is situated on a bold headland with precipitous banks, rising sixty feet above the creek. At this point Four Mile makes a remarkable bend^ constituting a peninsula one thousand and sixty feet across the neck. Across this neck is carried a crescent-shaped wall with an outer ditch, thus enclosing an area of twenty acres. A portion of the wall is on the dividing line between Oxford and Milford Townships. A plan of this work is given in Fig. 58. There is a gateway at the point ^ twenty feet wide. At the point d the bank is perpenaicular. The letter B represents the low ground bordering the stream. *Froma survey by James McBride, in 1832.

The declivity at the point h is steep and difficult of ascent. The wall is carried along the bank at that point, probably designed to protect the flank of the defense. The wall has been plowed down, but is easily traced by a swell in the ground. AVhen we visited the spot the greater portion was in a wheat-field. The wall was indicated by the yellowish color of the soil and the wheat thin, while the ditch was lower and the wheat heavy. Originally the wall was too high to plow over. It was reduced by plowing along it longitudinally, throwing the furrows into the ditch.

The engraving, between the natural bank at d and the bed of the creek, represents a terrace thirty feet wide about midway from the top to the water. Some have supposed it to be artificial, but it may have been caused by a land-slide.

The position thus selected is naturally a strong one, and one that is secluded. As we approached the bed of the creek from the west the general aspect was Avild and forbidding. We descended over a steep, stony road, and, having reached the bed of the creek, proceeded the rest of the distance on foot. The soil is thin overlying the limestone, and appears to be worn out. We learned that the fort is known in the vicinity as "Chaw-raw Hill," deriving the epithet from some early travelers who encamped there, and eat their food without being cooked.

The township contains thirteen mounds, all of which were kindly located for us by Mr. John M. Stern and Samuel Gath, Jr., before we visited them. We first visited that on the farm of W. D. Jones, section fourteen, near the Horner graveyard. It is four and one-half feet high by forty-three feet in diameter. A drift has been cut in from the south, but the center not reached. Near the top is a sugar tree six feet in circumference. A sugar tree stump on the side exhibited eighty rings of annual growth. The mound is on a beautiful knoll in the corner of a grove. On the same farm, near the residence, once stood two mounds, each eight feet in height. In the center and on the original surface of the ground occurred a human skeleton, surrounded by charcoal. It was in an extended position, with the feet to the southwest. With it was a perfect jawbone of a chiUl. The human remains were sent to the Dental College of Cincinnati. Several axes, pestles and spearheads occurred. The hill upon Avhich these mounds were situated overlooks the town of Oxford.

On the W. and J. Mitchel farm, section eleven, in an open field, is a mound two and one-half feet high by thirty-seven feet in diameter. Judging from the base, it is probable that the mound, before it had been disturbed, was not over five feet high. It is located on elevated land. On the farm of James Horner, west side of the creek, same section, is a mound in an open field, five feet high. Several years ago some boys undertook to open this mound, but having been called ^'Digger Indians'' they desisted from the work. Before abandoning the undertaking they secured many implements. On the land of Michael Buckley, same section, is the largest mound in the township. It is picturesquely situated, being located on the alhivial land of Four Mile Creek, and almost entirely surrounded by hills. Near by flows a small but rapid stream. To the southwest a tongue of land projects into the valley. This spot for natural beauty is not excelled elsewhere in the county. The mound is composed of broken limestone, sand, gravel and surface material. Its shape is oblong, and twentyfive feet in height; the diameters being respectively one hundred and twelve by ninety-three feet. It has never been opened, although a slight excavation appears near the top.

One of the finest mounds in the township is that on the farm of D. M. McDill, section four. It is eight feet high by seventy-one feet in diameter at the base. It stands along the roadside, and a portion was removed in grading the road.

The mound on the firm of J. J. Fry, section thirtyfour, was opened in grading the road. In the center, at the bottom, a skeleton was uncovered, under which was burnt earth. It was in an extended position, with the feet to the southwest. Several skeletons were exhumed in the eastern part of the mound. The earth composing the mound is diUcrent from any in the vicinity. At the present time the mound is five feet high by sixty-eight feet wide.

In the barnyard of R. Ratliff, section thirty-five, once stood a mound. In grading the yyrd the mound was removed. Some charcoal, but no relics, occurred.

On the farm of Hiram King, section, one, in an open field, is a mound three feet high by forty feet base. On the side is an elm stump showing eighty-eight rings of annual growth.

On the farm of Mrs. Nancy Decker, section twelve, are three mounds which have been plowed oyer for the last forty years. They are now quite low.

On the farm of D. M. Magie, section fourteen, is a mound five feet high by thirty-five feet in diameter. It has been opened and a skeleton taken from it. Two gorgets and two spear-heads were found.

On the land belonging to P. Taylor, section seven, is a mound, located in the woods. It has been opened, and in it were found three perfect spades and two gorgets. These are now in the possession of Samuel Gath, Jr.

A glance at the map will show that four of the mounds are near Four Mile, and on elevated positions. The other eightare within a mile and a half of the creek.

Milford Township is joined by Preble County on the north, Wayne Township on the east, Hanover on the south, and Oxford on the west. Seven Mile Creek runs through it in a southeasterly direction, and Four Mile enters it in the southwest. The valley of Seven Mile is beautiful, and the soil productive. The hill lands yield an abundant crop.

An interesting enclosure occurs in the southwestern quarter of section three, and northwestern quarter of section ten. A plan is given in Fig. 59, taken from an

Source changes here: from A History and Biographical Cyclopædia of Butler County, Ohio : with Illustrations and Sketches of Its Representative Men and Pioneers, published 1882; 18,322 words in this source stream.

Ross Township

Beginning on the west bank of the Miami at the northeast corner of fractional township No. 1 of the third range west of the Miami; thence west to the western boundary of the county; thence south to the southwest corner of the county; thence east with the southern boundary of the county to the Miami; thence northeastwardly up the Miami to the place of beginning. One justice.

On the 21st day of January, 1804, the Legislature passed a law to provide for the incorporation of townships. (Laws of Ohio, Vol. II, page 93.) This law empowered the commissioners of the county to alter the

Ata meeting on June 11, 1804, consisting of the following persons, Ezekiel Ball, Matthew Richardson, and Solomon Line, John Reily was appointed their clerk.

Ross Township was rich in the original growth of her timber. Poplar, oak, buckeye, ash, walnut, sycamore, hickory, wild cherry, gum, sugar-tree, sassafras, and dogwood grew spontaneously. A very large portion of the ereek and river bottoms were covered with spice and hazel bushes, wild gooseberry bushes, black currants, which in some places spread over several acres, pawpaw bushes, wild onions, pea-vines, thistles, briers, burrs, and weeds. This growth was so dense in some places as to make it impassable. And here lived all manner of game. The hunter liked best of all the deer or wild turkey. Both abounded here in the beginning of this century. Along the Miami, wild geese and brant, as well as ducks and other water-fowl, lived by the thousands. In the woods were pheasants, quails, squirrels, foxes, wolves, and all their neighbors... It was the general custom of the people for many years to spend a portion of every Fall in hunting. The Miami was also full of fish, immense quantities of which were taken in nets or drag seines made of brush.

The most prominent of all the early roads was the Trace road, passing through Layhigh and on to the Miami, much as the road now does. Another road, which was of considerable note, is now the Venice and Millville road. Paddy's Run road ran from Hamilton to New London. The road as it now is passes over pretty much the same road-bed. The Lawrenceburg and Columbus, or State road, leading from the former of these places in Indiana to the capital of Ohio, was in constant use in 1811. It followed the ridges so as to prevent cuts - a plan the early surveyors often used to great advantage in locating highways through a new country. In 1808 there were very few houses between Millville and Hamilton. One stood where Robert Dick now lives. Another was known as Sutherland's, on the upper road or pike, and stood where the toll-gate now is. Both of these houses are standing.

The Jackson School District, No. 2, began with a log-house in 1811, which stood near where Joseph Timberman now resides. About 1820 the district proper had its beginning in a second log-house on the hill. In 1873 a third house was built by John Timberman, a good brick, which is now in use. Among the scholars of the 1820 house were John and Peggy Maze. William Harmey was one of the teachers.

Among the first voting precincts in Ross Township was Judge Knox's, near the bank of Indian Creek, one mile above the iron bridge. This place of voting was in existence from 1820 to 1835. A man by the name of Smith was an early settler in this region, and owned the farm on which Judge Knox afterwards lived. Smith had a still-house here,

In 1811 Thomas Moorehead opened for his family a burying-ground on the east side of Indian Creek, one mile below Millville. This place of interment was among the first in the township. The yard is now overgrown with briers and bushes. There is another very old yard on the farm now owned by Mr. Hoover, of Venice, on the left bank of Indian Creek, near the Miami, which was established in the year 1811. This yard is now in a very bad condition - without fences, overgrown with briers, bushes, and left to take care of itself, apparently.

One of the first blacksmiths in Ross carried on his business near the iron bridge over Indian Creek. He was soon followed by another, on the hill one mile above, on the State road.

Christopher Timberman was an early mechanic in the neighborhood of School District No. 2, in 1811. He was a native of Pennsylvania, coming here from Tennessee; and during his life, which ended at eighty-eight years, made many spinning-wheels, chairs, bedsteads, and such like for the people of this valley. He is buried at the Moorehead grave-yard. His son, Christopher, died at the age of eighty-seven years.

Many fine farms now in this township were paid for with money made in manufacturing whisky. There was no disgrace attached to its manufacture. Two men by the name of Sayres and Avery, of Cincinnati, entered the western half of Section 15, and bought enough more to reach four hundred acres.in 1810, or thereabouts, and erected a still-house. This distillery was afterwards rented by Andrew Lintner, who worked it for a while.

Matthew Timberman was a distiller in the township in 1815, where Andrew Timberman now lives. When this establishment first began the manufacture of whisky, their corn was ground at Dick's mill, on the Miami, and Van Horne's mill, at Millville. After several years, the profits were found to be much larger if the corn was ground at home; hence the change was made. The whisky was hauled to Cincinnati in four and six horse wagons, and often with as many oxen, though the latter were not so easily managed, especially during " fly-time."

James Comstock carried on distilling on Dry Run, above Venice, fronr 1820 to 1840. Joseph Van Horne had a still-house in Millville about 1818. The distillery was superintended by Mr. Wilcox. This establishment continued for about twenty-five years. Balser Gailey's still-house, on the Wickard farm, now owned by the heirs of John Crawford, was in operation in 1831. There were other and more prominent establishments scattered throughout the township.

About 1840 Samuel Dick built a grist and saw mill, one mile below Millville, on Indian Creek. This mill was burned in a few years. The sawing department was rebuilt by Dick. The grinding department continued for a dozen or fifteen years. Captain Michael Hawk afterwards owned the mill. Jacob Shafer was the head miller under Hawk.

Judge John Dunn was an early settler on Indian Creek, near the wooden bridge which crosses the stream. He was here in 1811. He entered a large tract of land in this vicinity, which he sold out to those who followed. Near Andrew Timberman's an old settler lived by the name of William Morris. Daniel Rumple, from one of the Carolinas, bought out John Elliott (who removed to the country of the Wabash), and took up his residence in the eastern side of the township at an early day.

It would be a difficult matter for a writer of local history to tell which of the two mills, Van Horne's at Millville, or Dick's at or near Venice, has been the most serviceable to the country at large. Both were built about the same time, the former in 1805 by Joel Williams, and the latter by Jacob Hyde. The first mill at Dick's was of round hickory logs, and contained what was known as a corn-cracker for the grinding machinery. Some five or six years after the mill was built it passed into the hands of Samuel Baxter. About 1812 Samuel Dick, Sen., and his son, George, purchased the property and erected the first frame the same year. This house was forty by forty feet and three stories high. Samuel Dick in the course of time released his interest in favor of his son, George. The property remained in his family until 1856. In 1848 one of the sons of George Dick, Samuel, Jr., erected the present frame, forty by fortyfive feet, and three stories high. Samuel Dick, a brother of George Dick, and his son, G. W. Dick, bought the property in 1856. About 1875 G. W. Dick, the present owner, came into possession of the property, since which time the mill has been actively at work.

There have been many changes in the mill since it was built at this site ie eaters of a century ago. For many years the extensive and productive country which surrounds it has called here to have its wheat, corn, and buckwheat ground. For many years there has also been a good saw-mill in continual use. The site is admirably adapted to a successful business.

Dick's mill was for a good many years used as a postoffice. The original ford for the entire north-western part of the county, and a large area of country in Indiana, made Dick's Ford a crossing-point. The Legislature, in the year 1880, passed a law to incorporate the Venice and Colerain Bridge Company, and gave Enoch Bond, Giles Richards, James Comstock, i Shaw, Tsaac Beech, and Nehemiah Wade power to erect and build a toll- pai across the Miami at or near Venice. Immediately after the bridge was erected, which was, no doubt, in 1824 and 1825, the ford ceased to be used except for very ordinary purposes.

Venice

Venice was laid out by Dr. Benjamin Clark, February 1, 1817. The founder of this place called it es Wenus" because it was so pleasantly situated, having beautiful surroundings, and well located for 1 rapid and mature growth. Clark, however, laid out only the western half of the village, his east line extending as far as where the Layhigh road now is. The eastern part of the town is mostly additions made by various men at different times. Dr. Clark gave an acre of ground, when the town was platted, for burial purposes. This ground was located immediately opposite the Presbyterian church, just north of the Odd Fellows' Hall.

Dr. John Woods was an early resident of '' Venus." He practiced medicine throughout the country. Dr. Clark was also active in the same profession. Dr. Woods lived in the house now occupied: by Frank Ochs. Daniel Hawk took up his residence in the village more than fifty years ago. He has remained here most of the time since; but was born on Indian Creek, above Millville. The Butterfields and Shaws were here very early; also the Boals and Daniel Haldeman. In 1816 Isaac Lutes was a blacksmith near Dick's mill, near where his son Alexander now resides. Lutes was the only blacksmith ever at this point. James Comstock built the store now occupied by Moorehead, which is one of the oldest houses in town, about 1820. Comstock was a justice of the peace for several years. He sold out his property and remoyed to the West. Enoch Vaughn -was here as a store-keeper in the Comstock house many years ago. Jonathan Kilburn was engaged in the same business as early as 1850. Thomas and Anderson Boal were here engaged in mercantile pursuits in 1850. Dr. Woods was a successful tavern- keeper in his time. Lloyd Reese was here in a similar occupation in 1840, in the house now occupied by Ochs. Reese is now a resident of Kansas. Allen Fuller carried on the same business in '' Venus" not less than a quarter of a century since. William Huxford and his son Charles were probably the first blacksmiths in the village. Campbell, Andrews, and David Timberman were also here quite early. James Hannah succeeded Huxford. One of the most permanent of all the blacksmiths who have made Venice a place of business is Thomas Joyce.

When the public lands were first offered for sale in Cincinnati, in 1801, Jeremiah Butterfield, an enterprising young man from Massachusetts, who had _ shortly before come to what was then Fort Washington, and who had assisted Colonel Ludlow to run the boundary line between the United States and the Indian tribes, formed a company with Esquire Shaw and his son Alvin, Asa Harvey, and Noah Willey to make investments in lands. They bought at the first sales two full sections, and as many fractional sections, beginning at the mouth of Indian Creek and extending down the river for about two miles. This land is now under a fine state of cultivation, and dotted with splendid residences. A small part of it is now occupied by the village of Venice. In order to secure it the company bid ten cents per acre above the minimum price. The six owners then divided the land, under a survey made by

Ross

Emanuel Vantrees. Each had a front on the river, something quite essential in those days of flat-boats and still-houses. Mr. Butterfield obtained eight hundred acres, partly in Butler and partly in Hamilton Counties. He fixed his residence near where Venice is now located.

The Masonic society of Venice was instituted as early as 1832. Among the charter members were William Turner, now of Harrison, Ohio, engaged as a tailor; Ephraim Buell, father of D. C. Buell, a prominent citizen of New Haven, Hamilton County; Sherebiah Butterfield, now living near Dayton; and William Cone, now living on the Miami below the town, near the ancient site of Crosby village. In 1839, or thereabouts, the charter was revoked on account of the decrease in the membership. Some twenty-five years ago it was returned, since which time the lodge has been in a prosperous condition. The first place of holding meetings was in a house rented of Ephraim Buell, which stood on the pike leading to the bridge. About 1853 the society erected their present hall, a frame building two stories high, valued at about $600.

Venice has had many temperance societies. In 1848 an organization was formed known as the Sons of Temperance. Their meetings were held in the Masonic hall. This hall is now occupied by the Widow Fesel as a dwelling-house. The most prominent members were William Cone, Adam Cummings, A. H. Cone, Isaac Frost, and John Hutchinson. Venice is now favored with three saloons, and there are yet many opportunities for temperance work.

Venice Odd Fellows' Lodge was organized in July, 1871. The charter dates the 15th of the same month, and was received a few days before the hall was completed. This society was organized at the house of John The hall was completed the same year the lodge was organized, costing $800, being an addition over a room now occupied by T. Joyce as a wagonmaker's shop. The first officers of this lodge were John Hutchinson, N. G.; Dr. F. B. Morris, V. G.; Thomas Pottenger, Treas.; J. Moore, P. Sect.; J. Bevington, Sect. The other members were A. Strubel and S. Bevington.

Venice Cemetery had its beginning in 1817, when Dr. Clark gave one acre of land immediately north of the Odd Fellows' hall, but which was soon exchanged, by a proposition from the members of the Bethel Presbyterian Church, for one acre on the south side of the present cemetery. This exchange was made because the original site was thought less favorable for burial purposes. The intention was that deeds should be given by both parties, but after twenty-one years of occupancy the Clark heirs claimed and received the intended original ground. The acre on the hill had an addition of three acres within a few years. There are now five acres in the ground. Every thing is in keeping with taste and durabilty. We take these inscriptions from

John Van Ausdall departed this life April 4, 1835; aged 29. Margaret, wife of David Van Ausdall, departed this life April 24, 1837; aged 29. Permelia, wife of Daniel Brown, died August 10, 1834; aged 31. Doctor Benjamin Clark, died June 22, 1826; aged 57. Elizabeth, wife of Doctor Benjamin Clark, died February 15, 1861; aged 77. Alvira, daughter of Doctor Clark, born October 15, 1824; died March 7, 1868. Nicholas Demoret, died April 22, 1826; aged 65. Lydia, wife of King De Armond, formerly wife of Nicholas Demoret, died February 2, 1867; aged 93. In memory of Silence Bennet, who died February 28, 1830; aged 81. John Shaw, died January 26, 1834; aged 58. Lemuel Hungerford, died February 21, 1846, in the 85th year of his age. Abigail Hungerford, died January 27, 1842; aged 81. Martin Busseur, died July 15, 1834; aged 51. Mary Patton, wife of John Brown, departed this life April 24, 1846; aged 90. Sacred to the memory of Rev. Thomas Thomas, who departed this life October 9, 1851; aged 51. Rev. Mr. Thomas was the first pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Venice, organized in 1828. He came from New London. Rebecca Maria, wile of C. W. Prather, M. D., and daughter of A. and R. Brickhead, of Virginia, departed this life February' 26, 1840; aged 19. William 8. Van Dyke departed this life December 21, 1836; aged 29. Peter Timberman, a man of well-known family, died October 22, 1856, in the 57th year of his age. Joseph R. Coryell, died October 11, 1843; aged 42. Charity Coryell, died March 24, 1839; aged 68. Sacred to the memory of George Coryell, who died April 22, 1836; aged 72. David McCleery, born December 12, 1776; died November 11, 1833. Isabella McCleery, born January 21, 1789; died March 21, 1830. Mary, wife of Fergus Anderson, born October 5, 1800; died October 4, 1859. N. Wade, born August 19, 1798; died July 24, 1879. Jane, wife of Nehemiah Wade, born August 6, 1791; died November 25, 1865. Horace Willey, born February 13, 1792; died March 3, 1880. Anna, wife of Horace Willey, born June 16, 1792; died January 7, 1879. Bradbury Cilley, born May 16, 1798; died July 19, 1874. Mr. Cilley was one of the wealthiest citizens of Colerain Township at the time of his death.

Sarah B., wife of Jonathan Patterson, who died February 26, 1826; aged 21. Mary, wife of Jeremiah Butterfield, died June 27, 1853; aged 77. Nathaniel Butterfield, died October 11, 1857; aged 44. Mary, wife of S. A. Butterfield, died December 20, 1872; aged 66.

Venice Schools

About the year 1814, the Butterfields, Shaws, Willeys, and others gathered in the woods to build a school-house on the lot now occupied by I. R. Anderson's dwelling. The house, a log building, was twenty by twenty feet, with puncheon floor, stone fire-place, board door, and wooden hinges, writing desks made by placing long boards on slanting pins put in the logs, slab seats, windows which extended the whole length of the house, and other fixtures common with early educational institutions. The logs of the house were round hackberry.

one of the first teachers, was a strict disciplinarian. Many stories of his eccentricities are told by his scholars, a few of whom are still living. The Rey. Mr. Goble, a New Light minister, preached a number of times to the early residents of Venice and vicinity in this old log building. In 1820 Mr. Swain taught a high school in a little house which stood on the lot now owned by Thomas Joyce. This school was generally known as the Advanced School, grammar, arithmetic, and some higher branches being taught. About six or seven years after the first house was built it was destroyed by fire. The school was then taken to a log cabin on the lot now occupied by Andrew Voigt's house.

In 1824 a society was chartered for religious and literary purposes, to which Isaac Lutes deeded one acre of land where the Presbyterian church now stands. This lot extended to the Hamilton and Cincinnati road, and was only given with the consideration that Dr. Frank Clark should deed a like amount for burial purposes where Thomas Joyce's wagon shop now is. About this time it appears that a small brick church was built on a small triangular lot, a short distance south-east of the Presbyterian church.

In the erection of the second school-house, in 1825, a great deal of dissatisfaction was experienced in consequence of the grants of land which had been made by Lutes and Shaw. John Shaw, an old bachelor, gave as an addition to Mr. Lutes's lot, one half acre more. This house, a one-story brick, with raised floors on each side and sunken middle for classes, stood on the lot now occupied by Thomas Boal's residence. The second schoolhouse, proper, was considered a model in its day. It was twenty-five by thirty feet, four windows on each side, one in the front end, and with two large fire-places. A double door, which swung on iron hinges, in the south-east corner of the room, furnished the means of entrance. School was held in this house until 1850; there were also frequently religious meetings in it.

When the old house began to grow too small for school purposes, the directors began to cast about for a new building. To avoid any trouble about the title of the land upon which the house was to stand, an additional lot was bought.of Mr. Patton, who gave a deed of it to the school board. This lot was in the rear of the old building, and the new house erected partly upon it is still standing behind Thomas Boal's residence, The house is thirty by forty-five feet, one- story, two rooms, two doors fronting on the Hamilton Pike, with playground in front. The lot is claimed by the Union Religious Society.

In the fourth building (counting the log-cabin one, after the first house was destroyed by fen school was held until 1875, when the Union school-house was built.

"The iret was growing too large for two rooms, and the Venice district proposed to the district north to consolidate the two under an independent high school district." The vote was in favor of consolidating, but not to be independent. A. site for the new building next engaged the attention of the directors and those interested in the enterprise. This became a serious question. One faction wanted to use the old lot, but the same old objection was urged. It was finally decided to sell the old lot, the purchaser to take risks as to title. The lot sold for four hundred and fifty dollars, and the church and school joined in making the deed good. A site was subsequently selected one-half mile north; where two acres had been bought, one acre each from Judge Wade and Jeremiah Morgan, at two hundred dollars per acre. The township board of education granted eight thousand dollars for the erection of the building, and thus, in 1875, under the efforts of George W. Dick, Major Robert Joyce, and William Clark the new house was completed, and is one of the best in the county.

The school opened in the new building under the supervision of Samuel McClelland, who taught for seven months, every room being full to overflowing. He was followed by Mr. Dayton for seven months, and at the close of his term there was a considerable amount of distrust in the minds of the people as to the success of the enterprise. Alfred Joyce, a young man of many parts, consolidated the intermediate and high school departments, and completed the school year of Mr. Dayton, and giving evidence of talent, was employed for the succeeding year. S. A. Gossett was also employed as principal and superintendent, who at once introduced a curriculum of study and a code of rules for the government . of the school. Under this control the school progressed rapidly, and within two years afterwards twelve scholars held certificates as teachers. Many of these young boys and girls are now among the successful educators in the surrounding country. Mr. Joyce, after teaching the intermediate department for five years, was called to Millville as principal of the high school at that place. Among those who have risen rapidly in their chosen profession, who have been Mr. Gossett's scholars, is Miss Anna M. Willey, a young lady well and favorably known, both in Hamilton and Butler Counties, in educational circles.

The Venice High School is still progressive, and Mr. Gossett is yet to see many years of pleasure and profit in the hamlet which our forefathers called '*Venus."

The Venice Presbyterian Church was organized in the Fall of 1828 by the Presbytery of Cincinnati. It was an outgrowth of the Bethel Church above Millville. Sargent, David Gibson, and Nehemiah Wade were the first elders. At a subsequent time the Church came into connection with the Oxford Presbytery, and after the union of the two Presbyterian bodies, was added to the Presbytery of Dayton. In October, 1874, it was transferred to the Cincinnati Presbytery. The present church edifice was erected in the year 1856. The succession of its ministers is as follows: Thomas Thomas, from 1828 to 1831; Samuel Smith, from 1831 to 1835; Peter Golliday, from 1835 to 1839; A. A. Gilliland, from 1839 to 1859; I. M. Hughes, from 1859 to 1870; J. B. Morton, from 1870 to 1872; John Daniels, from 1872 to 1873; David R. Moore, from 1873 to 1877; John Haight, from 1878 to 1881. The present membership of this Church is about one hundred and sixty persons. In 1876 the elders of the Church were Judge Nehemiah Wade, Thomas Burns, I. A. Boal, all of whom are dead; William Sims, who has removed to a different neighborhood ; George W. Dick, I. W. Inderson, H. W. Scott, N. Wade, Jr., and N. C. Wade, all living. Trustees of the Church for the same year were Thomas Boal, I. R. Anderson, George W. Dick, and N. Wade, Jr., who are also the present officers. The Rey. Thomas E. Thomas, D. D., united with the Venice Presbyterian Church April 2, 1831, and died February 38, 1875, at Walnut Hills, Ohio. The Sabbath-school connected with the Church is in a healthy condition. The officers in 1876 were James R. Hemphill, superintendent ; George C. Marsh, secretary; and Thomas Bgal, treasurer. Connected with the Church is a woman's benevolent society, officered in 1876 as follows: Mrs. D. R. Moore, president; Mrs. George W. Dick, vice-president; Mrs. Julia S. Wade, secretary; Miss Sarah Reese, treasurer. The minister in charge at present is Rev. W. Macmillan, who fills the position as stated supply.

We give the names of some who have been and are the most prominent members: Fergus Anderson, Sylvania Anderson, 8S. D. Anderson, Israel Atherton, Jane Atherton, Thomas Burns, I. A. and Thomas Boal, Asa Burch, Asa H. Cone, James Carr, Charles and Joseph Cone, George W. Dick, Miss Mary F. Dick, C. K. Gilliland, John Knox, George Kay, Elizabeth Lutes, George _C, Marsh, Hannah Marsh, Henderson W. Scott, John E. Sater, Amelia Willey, Robert C. Wade, and R. W. Wade. All those who have been mentioned in any way as connected with the Sunday-school are members.

In 1826 the Rev. D. D. Davison and the Rev. R. O. Spenser organized the Venice Methodist Episcopal Church. They preached at first in the district school-house. In 1831 the Presbyterians gave permission to the Methodists to hold meeting in their church, and the preacher in charge, Rev. John Stewart, commenced in the work. A powerful revival was soon under headway. In this society was a zealous sister by the name of Hotchkiss, who in 1832, without the aid of even one man, embarked in the enterprise of building the first church. After obtaining a sufficient amount of money by subscription, and promised labor, with also the donation of a lot, she went to Peter Youmans and asked his assistance. He immediately became a partner in the undertaking and secured the title to the lot. The same year the house was completed and dedicated. In 1862 an effort was made to build a new house on the old site. Rey. Isaac Neff was the preacher in charge, and zealously entered into the enterprise. Subscriptions to a considerable amount were raised. At this time there arose some dissensions in the Church on account of the Rebellion and the location of the new edifice. Mrs. Sarah Andrews, of the Miamitown Methodist Episcopal Society, came to their assistance by a bequest of $1,000. The church was erected and named Andrews Chapel. Mrs. Andrews also bequeathed $100 to the society for the support of the ministers, paid annually in ten-dollar installments. So far as can be seen Methodism must have been a failure in Venice but for the help of woman. The society is now the weakest on the circuit. The present house was completed in 1865, and dedicated by Dr. J. M. Reid, then the editor of the Western Christian Advocate.

On the 1st of December, 1849, at a quarterly conference at New Haven, a resolution was offered by Rev. B. P. Wheat, that the Venice circuit purchase or build a parsonage house. The motion was carried and a board of trustees created, consisting of Messrs. Marsh, Bryan, Shaw, Yeager, De Camp, Stewart, and Bartlett. Ata second quarterly conference at Harrison, February 16, 1850, the trustees reported Washington, Harrison, New Haven, and Venice as favorable sites for the location of the parsonage. It was decided at this meeting to build the house at Washington. After some delay by two or three sets of trustees, in May, 1851, it was ordered that the ''house now almost finished in the town of Venice be purchased for $750, the amount the owner agrees' to take for it." The house was undoubtedly purchased the same year. In 1856 and 1857 the stable, carriage-house, and shed were built, during the pastorate of the Rev. A. W. Tibbitts. Perhaps every family that has occupied the house has done something to beautify the premises, but up to 1869 Mrs. W. N. Williams probably did more than any other person. The parsonage is now (1882) neatly kept by the Rev. E. A. Easton and wife.

In 1819 Oxford circuit was formed, embracing the country between the Miami River and the State line. The following are the names of the pastors and presiding elders who served on this circuit from its organization until 1837: 1819, John Sale, P. E., and Russel Bigelow, P. C.; 1820, Walter Griffith, P. E., and Allen Willey, P. C., assisted by B. F. Crouch; 1821, same presiding elder, and Samuel Baker, P. C., assisted by William H. Raper; 1822, A. Cummings, P. E., and Moses Crume, P. C., with Richard Brandriff, assistant ; 1823, same presiding elder, with James Jones for pastor in charge, and Levi White, A. P.; 1824, John Strange, P. E., and Peter Stephens, P. C., assisted by James Jones; 1825, John Collins, P. E., with Daniel D. Davison, P. C., and J. Baughman assistant; 1826, same P. K., P. C., and R. O. Spenser for assistant; 1827, same presiding elder, J. C. Brook, P. C., with J. C. Hunter assistant pastor; 1828, Greenbury R. Jones, P, E., J. P. Taylor, P. C., with B. Lawrence A. P.; 1829, 1830,

1831, Greenbury R. Jones, P. E. Elijah H. Field and R. O. Spenser were in charge for 1829; R. O. Spenser and E. H. Field were in charge in 1830; John Stewart and A. D. Beasley were in charge in 1831. James B. Finley, P. E., with John Stewart and J. F. Davison in charge in 1832. In 1833 Oxford was embraced in the Cincinnati circuit, where it remained until 1837. In 1838 James B. Finley was presiding elder, and J. W. Clark, P. C., with J. W. Finley assistant pastor. In 1834 Thomas A. Morris was presiding elder, and Charles W. Swain and J. Waterman in charge. In 1835 Leroy Swormstedt was presiding elder, and Burnis Westlake, P. C., assisted by Lucien W. Berry, J. A. Waterman, supernumerary. Leroy Swormstedt was presiding elder in 1836, Burnis Westlake P. C., assisted by D. Poe.

In 1837 the Oxford circuit was divided, and the New Haven circuit formed, which was embraced in the Lebanon district. As near as can be ascertained, the circuit consisted of fifteen appointments: New Haven, Harrison, Washington, Venice, Zion, Ebenezer, Miamitown, Bluerock, Layhigh, Youmans, Marsh's, Scoggin's, Mofford's, Olive Branch, and Stephens's Beech Woods. The localities of some of these places are now forgotten.

From the organization of the New Haven circuit to 1846 the following ministers served as presiding elders and pastors: 1837, William B. Christie, P. E. and Asa M. Stroud, with Martin Wolf as assistant; 1838, James B. Finley, P. E., with John W. Steel and William H. Fyffe as assistant; 1839, 1840, 1841, and 1842, George W. Walker, as presiding elder; Levi P. Miller, assisted by J. A. Waterman, served the circuit in 1840; Arthur W. Elliott and David Kemper in 1841; Joseph Gasner and Peter Holtzinger in 1842. In 1848, 1844, and 1845, Zachariah Connell was the presiding elder, Charles R. Lovell and Levi Cunningham were in charge; in 1844, Charles R. Lovell and Isaac N. Mark were in charge; 1845, Joseph Brooks and O. E. Peebles were in charge. Nathaniel L. Conrey was appointed the same year, vice Joseph Brooks, resigned. Asa B. Stroud, the first pastor in charge of the New Haven circuit, received a salary of $260, and on traveling expenses $127. The circuit paid his house rent. Martin Wolf, assistant pastor, received a little above seventy-five dollars on salary, and six dollars on traveling expenses. Mr. Lovell received $309.42 for his salary. Isaac N. Mark the same year received ninety-three dollars and fifteen cents.

In 1846 the name of the circuit was changed to that of Venice, which name it still bears. There were thirteen appointments at this time, as follows: Venice, Washington, Ebenezer, Walker, Zion, Bunker Hill, Layhigh, Youmans, Marsh's, Poe's School-house, Miamitown, New Haven, and Harrison. The first presiding elder, Z. Connell, was allowed forty-eight dollars for his salary, but only received forty-three dollars, a custom which was his salary as the first pastor in charge, $327.14. The presiding elders and ministers in charge since 1848 have been given in the order of appointment; first the presiding elders, then the pastors and assistant pastors: 1848, William I. Ellsworth, Daniel D. Davison, and J. B. Fish ; 1849, William I. Ellsworth, Benjamin P. Wheat, and Thomas M. Thralls; 1850, William I. Ellsworth, Benjamin P. Wheat, and Benjamin Glasscock; 1851, Augustus Eddy, William M. Smith, Benjamin F. Morris, the latter serving nine months, and his place being supplied by J. E. Thompson.

In 1852, the Cincinnati Annual Conference was formed, and Venice circuit was included within its boundaries. Salem came into the circuit the same year. In 1852 Augustus Eddy, M. Kauffman, and William M. Smith were in charge of the Venice circuit; 1853, Augustus Eddy, M. Kauffman, George B. Owens, Thomas Dunn, supernumerary; 1854, Augustus Eddy, George B. Owens, John Shinn; 1855, David Reed, A. W. Tibbitts, D. C. Benjamin; 1856, David Reed, A. W. Tibbitts, Alfred W. Keeling, supernumerary; 1857, David Reed, Michael Bitler, Daniel Griffis; 1858, David Reed, Andrew M. Murphey, Michael Bitler; 1859, Michael Marlay, John Fitch and George W. Kelley; 1860, Michael Marlay, J. P. Waterhouse, Evan P. James; 1861, Michael Marlay, Isaac Neff, and Sullivan W. Edmiston.

In 1862 the circuit was embraced in the Hamilton district, William H. Lauder, J. Neff, and 8. W. Edmiston in charge; 1863 the circuit was included in the West Cincinnati district, William H. Lauder, George W. Fee, and A. W. Keeling in charge; 1864, 1865, and 1866 William H. Lauder was presiding elder; William N. Williams was preacher in charge in 1865, 1866, and 1867, assisted in 1865 by N. C. Parrish, and in 1866 by Charles R. Gowdy as supernumerary. In 1867 and 1868 James F. Chalfant was presiding elder. Nathaniel C. Parrish and Jacob R. Hunter were pastors in charge in 1868; in 1869, 1870, and 1871 Mr. Chalfant was the presiding elder; in 1871, L. F. Van Cleve; in 1872 and 1873, Asbury Lowrey. William A. Robinson was preacher in charge in 1869, assisted by N. C. Prince; in 1870, W. A. Robinson, assisted by A. J. Hanna and A. W. Keeling; in 1871, George J. Conner; in 1872, Fletcher Hypes, assisted by John W. Sutherland; 1873, Fletcher Hypes, with G. M. Hammel as assistant preacher; and J. R. Hunter for three years and E. A. Easton for two years, both pastors in charge.

Four or five years ago the appointments of New Haven, Venice, Washington, and Okeana were placed in one circuit. All the other places of worship which have been mentioned as Methodist appointments, now belong to the Oxford circuit. Although beginning late; this Church is now the most prosperous in the county.

On the 23d of May, 1815, Joseph Van Horne laid off the town of Millville. Van Horne had been here for some time previous, engaged in milling in the same building which is now standing. The village is almost wholly in Section 4, and mostly in Ross Township. Indian Creek divides the place into halves, the western side or half being situated on a hill, which slopes gradually towards the creek. The eastern side of the village is level, and has the greater part of the population. Among some of the early settlers were Joel Williams, who was here in 1805; George Thomas, William Van Horne, the Hills, the Beatys, H. R. Coleman, Samuel Proud, David Montfort, Daniel Brosier, Charles Spinnings, and others.

From the earliest times Millville has oceupied a proud position in her country's history. When the State was subjecting her citizens to a system of military training, such men as ex-Governor Bebb, Colonel Halstead, and Judges Anderson and Wade met here to drill. These gatherings were after the fashion of town meetings, and called together all kinds of men. Besides, the mill was always a very necessary part of frontier machinery, and hence brought farmers to town through necessity. This mill was built in 1805 by Joel Williams, a mill-wright from the East. Williams, in 1821, sold the mill, including thirty acres of land, to William Cochran, who was born in New Jersey, but who was living at that time with his family in what is now Glendale, Hamilton County, Ohio. Mr. Cochran soon added one hundred acres more to his property, and on the 15th of August, 1825, purchased eighty acres adjoining of William Cobb and wife. One of the most remarkable facts connected with the erection of this mill is that the stone were hauled from Bank Lick, a stream in Hamilton County, at the mouth of which Williams had or quite soon thereafter erected a similar establishment. The Millville mill has remained in the family of William Cochran since 1821, the fourth owner being James W. Cochran, who died recently. For about ten years C. F. Thomin has had the oversight of this mill, receiving for his services one-half of the net proceeds.

One of the first indications that civilization was moving westward is found in a wrought-iron nail factory, which was in operation about 1823 on the bank of Indian Creek near where the tavern now stands. It was carried on for a number of years, the iron coming from beyond the Alleghanies down the Ohio.

Thomas Baker, a tailor by trade, owned a carding and fulling mill here in 1828 and 1830. The mill is now standing, being the first house west of the Presbyterian church. This establishment continued for eight or ten years. The motive power was furnished by a horse tread-wheel. Fd ;

John, Samuel, Matthew, William, Thomas, and Francis Van Horne, sons of Joseph Van Horne, carried on the manufacture of whisky in Millville before 1825, in a log still-house on the corner below where the bridge now stands on the west side of the creek. This bridge was built in 1849, two years after a like affair was carried off by high water.

It required but little foresight to see that store-keeping might be made profitable in Millville at an early day. We find, therefore, in 1825, or, no doubt, as early as 1819, Eliakim Ross here engaged in keeping what was pre-eminently a country store. Henry R. Coleman was in the same business in 1825, in a log house on the south side of the creek, a few rods above the bridge. John and Thomas Hanna were here in 1830, on the north or east side of the stream, a short distance above the tavern. John M. Cochran kept store in 1838, followed by Elias Kumler & Flickinger. Mr. Garner was also a business man in Millville at an early day. A. T. Carnahan was here also; he died in Venice. John W. Meeker, now of Harrison, was a merchant in the village some ten or fifteen years ago.

For the first blacksmith, Millville had William Ray, whose shop stood on the old turnpike, which formerly followed the creek without making a right angle at the corner. Mr. Shafer was also here early, on the old road. Henry Gallaway and his family were gunsmiths and blacksmiths in Millville more than fifty years ago. Frederic Zillyox was a blacksmith in 1845, or thereabouts. He afterwards became a tavern-keeper. Michael Emerick and Jacob Fillhardt were also blacksmiths. Gray was here as a mechanic for a time. blacksmiths in town at present.

The first post-office in the village was kept in a log house now occupied as a part of George Ender's hotel. William Hill was the first postmaster. James Hill was the second postmaster, in a frame house above the bridge, near where the harness shop now is. Hill was postmaster for about thirty-five years. The third office was in a brick building across the creek. © Before 1875, for ten or twelve years, the post-office was kept in various places, since which time it has been in its present location. James Hill was also a justice of the peace and a tanner in 1825, opposite the town hall. The fixtures of this tannery were to be seen until within a few years back. Robert, a son of James Hill, had control of the tannery for some time. Mr. Hill kept the post-office in the office of the tannery. The early mail route had for offices Dick's Mill, Millville, and Scipio (or Philanthropy). A stage route which began about 1835 ran from Oxford and beyond to Cincinnati. It was of very great service to the people.

In 1825 William Hill was a tavern-keeper in this village, and had probably been here for 'some time previous, in a log house on the north side of the creek. The house has long since disappeared. M. J. Millspaugh was engaged in the same business as early as 1820, on the south side of Indian Creek, in a double frame house. Jacob Hasler came in 1833 or 1834, and took charge of the Hill property. His wife was an excellent cook, and many travelers made it a point to spend the night with them. Frederic Zillyox followed Hasler in the same house, and also did a good business, building the present large frame in 1850. Joseph Van Ausdall was a tavern-keeper here also, for a year after Zillyox. After railroads came to be regarded by the public as a means of travel, the Millville taverns were compelled to take a less lucrative position.

Dr. James Corey was the first resident physician here in 1825. He removed to Cincinnati, and in a few years to Oxford, where he died. Dr. Lot Cooper was here in 1828. Dr. Kingsley was here soon thereafter. Dr. Arbuckle came in 1840, and remained for many years. Dr. Herron followed Arbuckle, the latter being here for six or eight years.- Dr. Battenburg was here as a physician for a short time. Dr, Roll, of McGonigle's, practiced in this vicinity with much success. The present physicians are Drs. Hancock and Dodd. All these men had the respect of the community.

Millville had for its first school-house a building, undoubtedly of logs, which stood on the site now occupied by the Presbyterian Church. This house was here in 1825. A year or two after a brick edifice was built, which stood until 1872, when the present Presbyterian Church made additions, and it is now used for their church. The present school-building, a handsome brick structure, was erected in 1872. For teachers, Abel Burress was here in 1825 and 1826; Mr. Dunn in 1835, and James A. Neal in 1836.

A. public meeting was held in the town of Millville on the 19th of June, 1858, for the purpose of forming a high school. An organization was effected and twentyeight shares of stock secured, at one hundred dollars each. The shareholders were James Whipple, Robert Moore, John Basler, J. C. Beaty, Peter Minton, H. Flickinger, Samuel Dick, James Williams, Lewis Bullock, Andrew Timberman, Ira M. Whipple, John W. Carr, John Ross, John H. Post, D. K. Zeller, W. R. Carnahan, Jacob Kumler, Michael Kumler, Samuel Dick, John Ross, Jacob Fillhardt, Jacob Wickard, James Dick, James Lewis, John Forlow, John Lefer, J. W. Cochran, D. P. Nelson.

By-laws and a constitution were drafted, and the school machinery set in successful running order. D. P. Nelson was the first teacher. He was a graduate of Oxford, and was very energetic in its organization. Lewis Bullock was also a teacher. The school-building was erected about 1855, by Robert Ferguson, and used as a store and post-office, but was sold afterwards to the high school corporation. This school continued for a number of years. All the higher branches were taught, preparatory for college. In May, 1870, the school-building was sold, and is now used for a dwelling-house.

met and resolved to open books for subscriptions. The building committee was composed of Doctor A. Hancock, Luke Bradley, A. G. McKeon, C. F. Thomin, who was really one of the originators also, but who, because of holding the office of justice of the peace, was not so con-- sidered in the corporation papers, and R. T. Hancock. Mr. Thomin was made secretary, and R. T. Hancock, treasurer. This committee began work on the foundation on the 11th of December, 1877. The house was completed on or about July 4, 1878, although meetings and entertainments were held in it as early as April Ist. Total cost of building and lot was one thousand two hundred and eighty-eight dollars. The present directors are Luke Bradley, president; William B. Flenor, vice-president ; C. F. Thomin, secretary; Jacob Fisher, treasurer, and A. J. Lewis. This hall is a handsome frame building, and is very useful to the public.

Samuel's Lutheran Church, above Millville, in Hanover Township, was begun as early as 1815. This organization was very prosperous for a time - a period of twenty odd years - when some difference arose in regard to their creed, which caused a division. In 1842, October Ist, the corner-stone of a brick building, fifty by forty feet, was laid for a church in Millville, on a lot now under a - state of cultivation in the south-east corner of the farm of W. B. Davis. This portion of the Zeigler congregation formed what was known as the Millville Lutheran Church. The remaining worshipers continued to use the old church until 1853, when they also came to the village and erected their present house. Some of the original members of the Hanover Township Church were Samuel Zeigler, Frank Bealer, and Daniel Brosier. This house is now standing, in a very dilapidated condition. There is also connected with it a grave-yard, also in a bad condition.

Mt. Zion, the proper name for the Lutheran Church in Millville, had, in 1842, for some of its prominent members John A. Keil, Philip Spangler, Jacob Kocher, Michael Shank, John Confare, Jacob Bealer, Daniel Shollenburger, George Spangler, and Michael and Philip Hawk. The Rev. John Surface, of Springfield, Ohio, dedicated the church. It was not until 1845 that there was any regular pastor - Rey. G. Sill. He was followed by E. R. Gwiney and W. C. Barnett, who is now in Tennessee preaching. Leonard Harrison and Mr. Kooch were here soon after Gwiney. From the Rey. Mr. Kooch henceforward the congregation was supplied by irregular preachers. When the Church was in a prosperous condition, its highest membership numbered fifty. Luke Bradley, Mrs. Sortman, and Mrs. Rothermel are the only living members. The house was sold to Mr. W. B. Davis about fifteen years ago, who tore down the building and sold the brick.

As has been said, the German Reformed Millville Church was one of the branches of the Samuel Zeigler Lutheran Church in Hanover Township. Among its first members were Jacob Kooch, John Fisher and wife, Frederic Zillyox, Jacob Fillhardt, Messrs. Hoover, George Muskopf, and their wives. Jacob and Barbara Muskopf were also early members. Their prominent preacher was Rey. John Bowman, a man who took a leading part in church erection. George Michling, Mr. Boleman, and Mr. Hostmaier were also prominently engaged here in the same work. Several years ago the Hanover Township church was sold; the money is now in the hands of the trustees of the Reformed Church, and held for cemetery purposes. At present there are about one hundred and twenty-five members. A good Sundayschool is in operation, with some eighty scholars, begun in 1855.

Among the most important of churches in Ross Township has been the United Brethren, erected about 1822, on the hill above Millville, on the south side of the old dirt road. This house, like the one built in the village in 1851, was a brick building about thirty-six by forty feet. For many years this society was by odds the leading congregation in this vicinity. It led in membership the famous Bethel Society, until some ten years ago, when the latter organization took the lead, since which time it has held it.

After about thirty years of continual use, the old church was torn down and the brick used in the construction of a new house. This society has seasons of promise and adversity. Some of the most distinguished of the early ministers were Henry Kumler and Mr. Sellers. The Rev. Christopher Flinchpaugh, a man who rode for over fifty years the circuit lying between the two Miamis, and extending as far north as Dayton, Ohio, was a noted visitor. Many names of the first members will appear in these inscriptions :

Ann Maria, wife of Michael Bottenburg, Sen., died August 5, 1850; aged 75. Dr. Daniel Bottenburg, died July 19, 1834; aged 25. Adam Clippinger, Sen., born in Northampton County, Penn., October 12, 1780; died in Butler County, Ohio, December 27, 1850. Benjamin Whalin, born in Lancaster County, Penn., died October 11, 1835; aged 22. Alexander Moore, died December 5, 1842; aged 63. Moses Langhlin, born December, 1777; died February 6, 1855. Tamson, wife of Moses Laughlin, departed this life December 23, 1844; aged 67. John Morse, who died January 9, 1850; aged 56. Also, Elizabeth, his wife, who died September 25, 1841; aged 47. David Doner, died September 10, 1828; aged 55. Nancy, wife of David Doner, died May 8, 1843; aged 64. A conspicuous monument in the south side reads, Mary, wife of Alexander Moore, died November 12, 1853; aged 62. Elizabeth, wife of Jacob Wickard, died December 28, 1852; aged 40. Jacob Carr, died August 29, 1854; aged 66. Amos Flickinger, Co. F., 93d O. V. L., wounded in the battle of Murfreesboro, Tenn., died January 14, 1863; aged 20. Charles Kichling, born in Prussia, May 26, 1827; died September 22, 1876. John Zeller, died October 16, 1857; aged 59. Daniel Beal, died January 18, 1871; aged 75. Amy, wile of Daniel Beal, died April 24, 1870; aged 73. John Lefiler, died April 3, 1876; aged 68. Jacob Snyder, died June 21, 1859; aged 58. Catharine, wife of Jacob Snyder, died March

Nehemiah Wade

Nehemiah Wade was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the year 1795. He was the son of David E. Wade, one of the first settlers of Cincinnati, a man of vast wealth, in addition to about two thousand acres: of land which he owned at the mouth of Indian Creek, in Butler County. Nehemiah Wade was elected a justice of the peace for Ross Township in 1818, an office he held for six years. In 1841, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ohio as an associate judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Butler County, and again chosen at the session of 1847 and 1848, holding the office until the organization of the courts under the new constitution - a term of eleven years. In addition to these trusts, Mr. Wade held

He was an elder in the Presbyterian Church for about half a century; a superintendent of the Sunday-school for about forty years, and always a liberal supporter of Christian institutions. He died July 24, 1879, in the eighty-sixth year of his age, leaving behind him a large and admirable posterity, many of whom still live in the vicinity of Venice, Ross Township.

Jeremiah Butterfield

Jeremiah Butterfield was born on the 4th of March, 1776, in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. When he was twelve years old his father removed to the State of New York. In 1797 young Butterfield left his home to seek his fortune in the West. He traveled to Pittsburg, where he embarked on a flat-boat and descended the of Doctor Spencer for the Winter. In the following Spring he started on board a flat-boat to Cincinnati. The place was then only an inconsiderable village, containing not more than one thousand inhabitants. The boat's crew proceeded on their voyage down the Ohio to Louisville, and from thence to Fort Massac, on the north bank of the Ohio, thirty-six miles above its mouth. Butterfield remained at the fort only a short time. He purchased a pirogue, and, in company with a Kentuckian, set out for St. Louis. The trip to St. Louis was made by taking the river. From St. Louis he went to St. Charles, a small village on the north side of the Missouri River, eighteen miles above its mouth, where he remained one year. Mr. Butterfield, not liking the manners and customs of the people, returned to St. Louis, and from there crossed the country to Vincennes, on the Wabash. While crossing the prairie he encountered vast herds of buffalo. From Vincennes he went into the interior of Kentucky, where he remained for three months and then set out for the East. He arrived at his father's house, in New York, in the Winter of 1799. He was now twentythree years old, and determined to take unto himself a wife, a Miss Polly Campbell, whom he married in 1800. He now began to look for some place to live. After some delay, he again took the flat-boat for Cincinnati. The company, of which Butterfield was a part, made arrangements to work at harvesting for Colonel John Riddle, who, at that time, lived two miles north of Cincinnati, on the Hamilton road. One corner of his land was where the Brighton House used to stand. Israel Ludlow, who was at that time employed by the government to run the boundary line between the United States and the Indian nations, employed Butterfield to act as one of his chain carriers. On this expedition they were three months without seeing a dwelling-house, and at one time came near starving, being five days without food.

Karly in the ensuing Spring he visited and explored the valley of the Great Miami, the bottom lands of Which pleased him very much. He, with a company of others, in the Spring of 1801, made a purchase of two full and as many fractional sections, beginning at the mouth of Indian Creek and extending down the river for about two miles. The land was divided, and Butterfield became the owner of about eight hundred acres, near where Venice now is. His friends, who had come on with him, returned to New York, and he remained to make a home for his young wife. After some work, he returned for his wife and sister, and when returning, brought with him the seeds of various fruit trees, from which he afterwards raised fine fruit.

About the year 1805 or 1806, the neighborhood where Mr. Butterfield resided became infested with a band of outlaws, marauders, and horse-thieves, There was no law that could be carried into execution effectually but lynehlaw, which was resorted to successfully. He was active

In the Winter of 1819 Mr. Butterfield drove a large number of hogs through the woods from the neighborhood where he lived to Detroit, a distance of more than two hundred and eighty miles. For most of the distance on the route which he chose there were no roads, and what rendered the trip more difficult, a severe snowstorm set in. Some of his men became disheartened and returned, but he pushed forward, breaking a path in the snow with his horse for his hogs to follow. After many days of hardship he arrived safely, sold out to a good advantage, and returned home with his saddle-bags full of silver. Three times he shipped his hogs from his own door down the river to New Orleans, going with them himself in each instance. From New Orleans he shipped his hogs to Cuba, and in 1828 was shipwrecked. When the vessel neared the shore she struck a rock, and the captain and the crew took to the long-boat. Mr. Butterfield would not leave until he had cut open the pens containing the hogs, which were on deck, and let them into the sea. They nearly all swam to the shore, so that he lost but few, and in selling them received twelve dollars per hundred weight, weighing them alive, so that, notwithstanding he was shipwrecked, and had to pay three dollars' duty on each hog, he made a profitable voyage.

All his children but one are yet living. Sherebiah, the oldest son, lives on a part of the land purchased by his father in Hamilton County. John, the second son, and Jeremiah, the third son, live in the same neighborhood, in Hamilton County. Nathaniel lived to raise a family, but died several years ago. Elijah, another son, lives in this township. Mary, a daughter, married James Radcliffe, and lives near New Baltimore in Hamilton County, Ohio. Elizabeth, another daughter, married Mr. Maynard. All the children are in comfortable circumstances and are much respected by the community. John C. was born in 1808, and was married in 1845 to Caroline Brown, born in Butler County in 1818. They had seven children. Mary Elizabeth, wife of John Kleinfelder, lives in Venice; Elijah lives in Ross Township; Jesse is married and lives in Ross; Rachel is the wife of John Knox, and the others are John W., Sarah E., and Susan ©, He is a farmer, and owns one 'hundred and five acres, part of which belongs to the original two hundred acres his father purchased. He lives in the old homestead built by his father.

Isaac Anderson

Isaac Anderson was long and favorably known in Butler County, having been a resident for more than forty years. He was born in Donegal County, Ireland, September 15, 1758, and was the youngest of thirteen parents died within a short time of each other, and there being no legal guardian appointed for him, he was left pretty much to his own control, and in after life was often heard to say that until he was fourteen years old he was a self-willed and very rude boy. At that time he resolved to reform, and at once became industrious and steady. He soon became ready in mathematics, and especially so in surveying, for which he had a natural gift. At the age of sixteen he determined to seek his fortune in America. He sailed from Donegal, in the north of Ireland, and landed at Philadelphia in the early part of the year 1774. During his passage he kept up his mathematical studies by learning navigation under the tuition of the captain.