Salem Township (part 1 of 2)

Salem Township

was organized June 5, 1826. It was ordered by the Commissioners at their meeting of the above date, that all that part of Perry Township lying on the northwest side of the Miami River be created a new township by the name of Salem, and that the qualified electors of Salem Townsliip meet at the house of John Hathaway on Saturday, the 24th day of June, for the purpose of electing officers for said township.

The following addition was made to the township June 5, 1837, viz., all of fractional township No. 1 in range 14 which was in Perry Township. This addition was some years later again attached to Perry Township.

Salem is in the eastern tier of townships. It is bounded on the north by Franklin and Jackson townships; on the east by Logan County; on the south by Perry and Clinton, and on the west by Clinton and Franklin townships.

The soil is varied ; in some parts clay predominates, and tho soil is rather thin ; while in other parts it consists of a rich black loam, and is well adapted to the growing of grain and grass.

There is an abundance of gravel for road purposes. The township is well supplied with springs and streams. The south part is bordered by the Great Miami River; the east is crossed by Rum Creek; the central part by Counts' Run; along the extreme west is Plumb Creek; all of which empty into the Miami. These streams are all fed and supjiorted by springs. The system of gravelled roads is quite complete, there being not less than twenty-five miles of free pikes in the township.

Dingman that the first white settler in the township Was Charles Weeks, on section 20, on what is known as the Bryan farm. This settlement was made in 1810 or 1811. He built the first house and made the first improvement. The land was owned by Daniel Y. Dingman. These were followed by Jesse Jackson, Alex. Jackson, Elisha Kirtland, and Caleb Goble, who were ail here previous to the spring of 1818. In 1818 Adam Counts and Jacob Le Masters came. Fr6m 1818 to 1820 we find that Wm. Roberts, Samuel Taylor, George Morrison, Benj. Beden, Joseph Donaldson, and Wm. Skillen had settled here. The first log cabin was built by John Hathaway at the big spring where Ogden's store now stands. The first hewed log house was built by Alex. Jackson. The first frame house by John Johnston.

The first school-house was built on the land of Elisha Kirtland ; the second was on the land of Wm. Skillen, which was afterward burned; then one was built on the land of Wm. Roberts.

Perhaps it would not be out of place here to give a description of a primitive school-house. It will he remembered there was no school fund or tax at that time; schools were supported by private subscription. When they desired a school-house the neighbors would gather together, select a site, then cut logs and build a house, usually about 12 by 16 ft.; the floor and ceiling were split puncheon; the door was made from split boards hewed with an axe and put together with wooden pins, hung on wooden hinges, with wooden latch, opened by a string. The benches or seats were made from saplings hewed flat on one side, with wooden pins for legs. The desk for the scholars to write on was a puncheon fastened to the wall by pins. The fireplace occupied one end of the house. The chimney was made of sticks plastered with mud. The roof was of clapboards held to their place with round poles. To make a window, one log was cut out of each side of the house, a frame was made with sticks crossing each other ; over this frp.me they pasted paper, and greased it with coon oil, which made it seem transparent. The whole structure was made without a nail or particle of iron in or about it. The youth of today will ask why such houses were built? and why they did not use sawed lumber, and nails, and glass ? The answer is, there was not a saw-mill within many miles of them, or a hardware store at which to get the glass and nails. Even if there had been, they had no money to buy them with. The teacher at that day was sometimes just as primitive a6 the school-house. He received for his wages ten dollars per month and boarded with the scholars. They were only required to teach reading, writing, spelling, and arithmetic. Their text-books were, the New Testament, U. S. Spelling-book, and Dayboll's Arithmetic. Steel pene were unknown ; goose-quill pens made by the teacher were all the kinds they used. It was no uncommon thing to see the teacher with a dozen pens sticking in his hair waiting to be mended. The beech rod was iu daily use, the teacher always kept a supply on hand ready for any emergency that might arise. The buckskin pants the boys used to wear and the beech rod brought in contact, would make lively music nearly every day. An incident is related by one of the scholars who attended the first school taught in Salem Township; the teacher was Daniel Goble. It was the custom of the school to read a chapter in the Testament each day. The teacher took the privilege to expound the Scriptures to the school as he understood them. In the lesson one day the word sepulchre occurred ; he asked what it meant; no one seemed to give the correct definition, so he told the school it was an animal that lived in the sea and upset ships. But this class of schools soon gave way for those of a higher grade, and we find at their head occasionally a man of more than ordinary qualifications. Such was Daniel G. Hull, who taught school here about 1832; he was a superior teacher and instructor, and also practical surveyor. It was under him that Col. J. Counts received his principal education and knowledge of surveying and civil engineering. Of the scholars who attended the Ijrst.school in Salem Township only two are left in the county, viz., Col. Jonathan Counts and Wm. Skillen.

Tileton, Maple Wood Post-Office, is located in town. 2 north, range 8 east, and was laid out for W. H. Mitchell, proprietor. Main Street follows the section line between sections 30 and 31, and is 75 links wide. Ohio Street is located on the quarter section line, runs north and south, and is 75 links wide. East Lane is 50, and West Lane is 58J links wide. All alleys are 1 rod in width. All lots are 5 by rods in width except lots 14 and 32, which are 3 by 6} rods. Lots numbered 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 are off the west half of the southeast quarter of section 30, and contain 1.9 acre. Lots numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are off the east half of southwest quarter of section 30, and contain 1.96 acre. Lots 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 are out of the east half of the northwest quarter of section 31, and contain 4.22 acres. Lots 14, 13, 12, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, and 42 are out of the west half of the northeast quarter of section 31, and contain 5.82 acres.

a thriving village in Salem Township, is situated on the northwest bank of the Great Miami River in section 15. It was surveyed and platted Aug. 1 1, 1836, by Jonathan Counts, deput}' surveyor for Ezekiel Thomas and Abner Gerrard, proprietors. The original plat contained 93 lots and fractional lots.

The village is pleasantly situated at the head of the Miami extension canal feeder, aud has about 500 inhabitants. It was incorporated in 1842.

The first officers were: E. H. West. Mayor. J. Knox, L. A. Davis, Wm. B. Miller, J. F. Fry, and Sami. Rice, Trustees. S. B. Musselman, Recorder. J. H. Hathaway, Marshal.

The town was named by Col. Jonathan Counts. There being another post-office in the State by the name of Port Jefferson, the P. O. at this place was named Pratt, after Dr. Pratt of Sidney. The first P. M. was Alex. Jackson. The mail was carried on horseback from Sidney to Marysville, Union County.

The first settler on the present town plat of Port Jefferson was John Hathaway, in 1814 or '15, who also was the first in the present limits of the township.

Dry Goods and General Merchandise, L. C. Ogden & Son, Henry Cargill, and S. T. Thirkield. Groceries and Provisions, E. B. & E. M. Honnell, J. Apgar, White & Lowe, and J. Staley. Stoves, Hardware, and Tinware, R. J. Deweese. Boots and Shoes, E. L. Kraft & Son. Furniture and Undertaker, Owen Conner. Hotels: Staley House, J. Staley; City Hotel, E. O. Gump. Livery and Feed Stables, J. Staley and E. O. Gump. Millinery and Dress Makers, Mrs. Putt and Mrs. Dutton. Grain Elevator, E. B. & E. M. Honnell. Port Jefferson Flouring Mills, G. E. Allinger. Saw Mill, J. B. Nettleship. Wagon and Carriage Manufacturer, E. L. Harrison. Blacksmiths, B. C. & N. S. Epler, Geo. Johnston, and S. R. Johnston. Tannery, John Cargill. Cooper Shop, Cargill Bros.

was laid out on the northwest bank of the Great Miami, in section 10, town. 1, range 7 E., in Salem Township, and was surveyed Aug. 16, 1836, for Abel Roberts, proprietor. It consisted of 36 lots, as shown by original plot, but has faded away except as a matter of record.

Port Jefferson was organized as a Special School District in the year 1858, since which time the Board of Education has consisted of six members instead of three, as before. The schools were held in a one-story brick house, which shortly afterward gave place to a two-story brick with two rooms. Prior to the organization of the special school district, the schools were only partly supported by public tax. After the public money was expended, the balance of the tuition was collected from the parents of the children in attendance. The duty of collecting this fund fell upon the teacher, which he had to do or not get pay for his labor. The usual wages were from thirteen to sixteen dollars per month of twenty-six days, and eight hours per day. To show the difference between teaching school in those days and the present, we will insert a resolution found on the school record dated Feb. 2, 1843:- - part in furnishing the wood for the school, and if you cannot, with the help of the large scholars, cut it up or induce the householders so to do, by sending them word by the scholars, we shall disband the school. We have done what we think is our duty to induce them so to do ; further, we want you to be more exact to your appointed hours, as complaints are entered against you in this particular.

In 1876 the Board of Education felt the necessity of more schoolrooms. The question of a new school-house was agitated, but no action was taken until 1877, when the old building was removed and the present fine structure was erected (a view of which is shown in this work). The building is of brick, and is 60 bj - 54 feet, and 30 feet high. It contains four rooms, furnished with modern furniture and fixtures, and is a model building, both in architecture and finish. The total cost of the building was $7745, exclusive of furniture. The schools are graded into three departments, with one teacher in each. The Board of Education at the time of the erection of the building were: R. B. Conklin, M. J. Winget, J. B. Nettleship, J. F. Miller, J. C. Ogden, and Wm. Manning.

The history of Methodism at Port Jefferson antedates the organization of the village ; but when or by whom the first society Was organized cannot be definitely ascertained, as there is no record in existence prior to 1845; but there is known to have been a society here prior to 1830. This society at that time was on the Bellefontaiue Circuit. We have no means of knowing when the first church building was erected, but it was a log edifice and stood near the old cemetery east of the village. This structure some years later gave way to a small frame church, which served as a place of worship until 1862, when the present building was completed. It was dedicated June 6, 1862, by the Rev. II. D. Oldfield, the pastor of the church. In 1834 Bellefontaine Circuit was divided and Sidney Circuit was formed, which embraced Port Jefferson. In 1843 Sidney was made a Station, and Port Jefferson Circuit was formed.

The following is a list of the pastors who have been over the charge from its organization to the present time, viz.: Levi White, Geo. Gatch, Thomas Beacham, Joshua Boucher, Jno. W. Clark, James W. Findley, Thomas Simms, Wm. M. Sullivan, Wm. Morrow, John Stewart, Peter Sharp, Daniel D. Davidson, James Smith, W. C. Clark, Geo. W. Walker, David Kempler, Wilson Smith, Silas Chase, L. P. Miller, and David Warnock.

The present membership of the church is about 130. There is a flourishing Sabbath-school in connection with the church with a membership of about 110 scholars and teachers, under the superintendence of S. T. Thirkield.

This church was organized in the year 1849 by the Rev. James Skillen and Joseph Warbleton at the house of John Mill ford. The first members were Amos and John Mulford and their wives, Jacob Near and wife, and Samuel Wiles. The first church was a log one, erected in 1852 on the laud of Jacob Near, in Logan County. This was burned in 1871 and replaced by a frame in 1872, on the land of Henry Kemp. The present society consists of eighty members. The following are the names of the pastors who have been over the society since its first organization : James Skillen, Daniel Lepley, Snow Richardson, Samuel Feuston, Justice Hunt, Jonathan Rhea, C. W. Davis, Thomas Diltz, and Daniel Lepley.

The business interests of Tileton are as follows : two general stores, by R. D. Earl and M. E. Strayer; one saw mill, by Epler Bros.; two physicians, J. D. Wise anil J. F. Harshbarger ; one tile factory ; one blacksmith shop ; and one wagon shop.

This lodge was organized March, 1858, under the name of Stokes Lodge, in honor of Horace M. Stokes, who at that time was Grand Master of the State. The lodge worked under dispensation until Oct. 1858, at which time the following officers of the Grand Lodge were present, viz., Wm. Fielding, W. G. M., W. C. Fielding, Dept. G. M., W. W. Skillen, S. G. W., F. A. Pool, J. G. W., Alex. Green, S. G. D., Irwin Nutt, J. G.

D. , H. 0. Sheldon, W. G. C., T. E. English, G. T., J. S. Read, G. S., and Jacob Young, T. After the opening of the Grand Lodge a procession was formed and marched to the ftl. E. Church, preceded by the new lodge and other members, where the officers of Stokes Lodge were duly installed by G. M. Wm. Fielding, who afterwards made a brief address. The Grand Marshal then made the following proclamation three times : In the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio, I proclaim this new lodge, by the name of Stokes Lodge, No. 305, to be legally constituted and consecrated and the officers thereof duly installed. Prayer was offered by G. Chap. H. O. Sheldon. The lodge then returned to the lodge room and closed in harmony.

The following were the first list of officers in full: W. M., J. Comer; S. W., E. B. Honnell; J. W., B. C. Wilkinson; Treas., Alex. Buckingham; Sec'y, J. M. Roberts; S. D., S. C. Hussey; J. I)., Jacob Epler; Tyler, Wm. Miller.

A charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio to W. B. Sandoe, J. Comer, E. H. Hopkins, J. F. Black, Wm. Dunlap, and Isaac Strahlem, May 15, 1861, to organize Earl Lodge, No. 365, of I. O. O. F.

M. E. Church, where Grand Chaplain, I). E. Thomas, delivered an address, and the officers were installed by the Grand Master. After the installation of officers they returned to the lodge room. The lodge opened in due form, and the petition of Wm. M. Van Fossen was presented, together with his card from Trinity Centre Lodge of Cal., to become a member of Earl Lodge. The petition was referred and committee reported favorably, and he became the first member by card. The lodge room at this time was over the store of Joseph Comer. Some time later another lodge room was secured, which was afterwards burned, together with nearly all the furniture of the lodge. Meetings for a number of years were held in a room over the store of S. T. Thirkield. In the fall of 1832 the lodge secured the privilege from E. L. Kraft of building the second story on his new store 4>uilding for a lodge room. This room they have finished and furnished at a cost of about $1600, and now have a very neat and handsome room. The present membership is 53. The time of meeting is every Monday evening.

1854. Trustees, Jonas Harshbarger, Nimrod Duvauld, and W. S. Mitchell. Clerk, James Haney. Treasurer, A. Knox. Assessor, Isaac Harshbarger. Constables, G. W. Robbins, L. C. Ogden, and A. Dunson.

1856. Trustees, Nimrod Duvauld, W. S. Mitchell, and John G. Knox. Clerk, John F. Miller. Treasurer, A. Knox. Assessor, Isaac Harshbarger. Constables, Enoch Rike, A. S. Cannon, and Wm. Robinson.

1859. Trustees, Isaac Miller, R. B. Conklin, and John G. Knox. Clerk, J. F. Miller. Treasurer, A. Knox. Assessor, G. J. Mitchell. Constables, Squire Baker, H. I. Stockstill, and U. B. Haney.

1861. Trustees, Geo. Gillespie, Elbert Cargill, and Nimrod Duvauld. Clerk, J. F. Miller. Treasurer, A. Knox. Assessor, G. J. Mitchell. Constables, Wm. Skillen, David Arbogast, and R. Hodge.

1862. Trustees, Eli B. Honnell, W. S. Mitchell, and A. A. Dunson. Clerk, Dr. J. F. Miller. Treasurer, A. Knox. Assessor, N. Duvauld. Constables, Squire Baker, David Arbogast, and S. McCormick.

1863. Trustees, A. A. Punson, E. B. Honnell, and David Cargill. Clerk, Dr. J. F. Miller. Treasurer, Isaac Stralheim. Assessor, Isaac Miller. Constables, Samuel Johnson, Benj. Hine, and Ranson Hodge.

1866. Trustees, John Cargill, A. A. Dunson, and Price Walker. Clerk, G. E. Allinger. Treasurer, Isaac Stralheim. Assessor, R. B. Conklin. Constables, S. Baker, D. Arbogast, and David Taylor.

1867. Trustees, N. Duvauld, John Cargill, and Wm. Apgar. Clerk, Wm. Dunlap. Treasurer, Isaac Stralheim. Constables, S. Baker, D. Arbogast, and D. Taylor.

1870. Trustees, A. Richey, Elias Le Fevre, and G. E. Allinger. Clerk, R. D. Pegg. Treasurer, W. K. Smith. Assessor, T. R. Patterson. Constables, L. B. McVay, George Gump, and F. M. Husser.

1874. Trustees, G. J. Mitchell, A. A. Dunson, and Owen Conner. Clerk, B. F. Allenbach. Treasurer, B. C. Epler. Assessor, R. B. Conklin. Constables, L. B. McVay, E. L. Kraft, and Isaac Allen.

1875. Trustees, Nimrod Duvauld, T. M. Hussey, and S. C. Barton. Clerk, O. C. Staley. Treasurer, B. C. Epler. Assessor, R. B. Conklin. Constables, L. B. McVay, P. M. Grapp, and M. A. Le Fevre.

1877. Trustees, Simon Wones, Owen Conner, and W. H. Price. Clerk, H. C. Roberts. Treasurer, B. C. Epler. Assessor, G. J. Mitchell. Constables, L. B. McVay, M. A. Le Fevre, and Wm. Hartman.

1879. Trustees, J. B. Nettleship, Jacob Epler, and D. Ritchey. Clerk, J. W. Warbington. Treasurer, B. C. Epler. Assessor, A. W. Robinson. Pike Superintendent, V. McCormick. Cemetery Director, J. C. Ogden. Constables, Wm. Hartman, John Knapp, and M. A. Le Fevre.

1882. Trustees, O. C. Staley, Simon Wones, and A. Hussey. Clerk, G. W. Bussard. Treasurer, R. J. Dewesse. Assessor, Isaac Harshberger. Pike Superintendent, S. I). Haney. Constables, M. B. Deweese and Thomas Herring.

The ancestors of the Roberts of Shelby County originally came from Wales to the United States and settled in Pennsylvania; from there they went to Virginia. In 1815 Mr. Roberts moved with his family to Champaign County, Ohio. Mr. Roberts while in Virginia was the owner of slaves. Becoming convinced that owning slaves was wrong, he removed to Ohio with his slaves, thereby giving them their freedom. In 1816 or 1817 he came to Shelby County and located his land - a half section - in section 3 of what is now Salem Township. In the spring of 1819 Mr. Roberts, with two of his sons - James M. and Anderson, and a colored man who had formerly been bis slave - came to his lands to built! a cabin and clear some land. They cleared about four acres and planted it in corn and potatoes. Some of them remained during the summer and fall to tend and harvest the crop, but all returned in the fall to Champaign and remained there till the spring of 1820, when the whole family, consisting of father, mother, five sons and two daughters, moved to Shelby Co. Of that number James M. is the only one left in the county. There are only two persons now living in the township besides Mr. Roberts who were here at the time he first came, viz., Jonathan Counts and Mrs. Jas. McVay. There was not a road, church, or school in the township. Mr. Roberts has lived to see Salem Township changed from a howling wilderness to a highly cultivated portion of the country. Where the red man hunted the deer since Mr. R. came to the county, now stand the school-house, church, mechanics' shop, store, and farm dwelling. Jas. M. Roberts was born in Bath County, Va., in 1803, and married Theresa Armstrong. By this union they have two children, Melissa and Henry C. In politics Mr. Roberts has always been a Whig and Republican, never having failed to cast his vote at every election for the party he believed to be nearest his principles. Mr. Roberts was postmaster at Port Jefferson from 1864 to 1878. He says the first wheat he sold he hauled by team to Cincinnati and sold for forty cents per bushel; afterward sold for forty-three cents and took his pay in trade; sold pork at ninety-three cents per hundred ; butter from four to six cents per pound ; paid fifty cents per pound for coffee.

only son of James M. Roberts, was born in Shelby County 1844 ; married Miss H. S. Neal in 1867. They have four sons: Fletcher, born 1868 ; Samuel N., born 1870; Harry, born 1874; Frank, born 1876. Mr. Roberts resides in Pt. Jefferson, and is engaged in buying and shipping grain.

a brother of James M. Roberts, was born in Virginia in 1808. He was one of the five brothers who came to the county in 1820. He with the other brothers helped to clear the farm ; had the same privileges and advantages that other boys had in the wild woods: about all the education he received was before he was twelve years of age. He lived at home with his father till he was thirty years of age, then married Miss Jane Gilfillen in the year 1838, by whom he had four children. He died in 1852. His widow still lives on the old homestead with her son, Winfield S. The Gilfillens came to the county in 1832; they came from Ireland, Mrs. Roberts being born in Ireland in 1810.

was born in Salem Township in 1852; is the youngest son of William Roberts, Jr. lie resides on the old homestead of the Roberts', settled in 1820. In 1881 he married Sarah Josephine Baker, a daughter of George C. Baker.

is a son of Andrew Roberts, one of the five Roberts brothers who came to the county in 1820. Andrew, the subject of this sketch, was born in 1848. He married Miss Florence Hartman in 1873. They have two children, Emma J. and Marion A.

was born in Miami County, Ohio, in 1825, and came with his father, Nathaniel Manning, to Shelby County in 1829. In 1859 he married Margaret J. Brandon. They had two children, John A. born Sept. 27, 1860. and Ulysses G. born Aug. 9, 1864. Esq. Manning resides in Port Jefferson, is serving as justice of the peace on his third term, also is mayor of the town.

when a young mnn, came to America. He was born in Germany about 1742. The exact date of his coming to the United States is not known, but he married here in about 1782. Some time after he was married he returned to Germany to inherit an estate which had been left; he, being the eldest of the family, became heir to his father's estate. He remained in the fatherland till 1797, when lie returned to the United States with his wife and three children. He left the old country on account of being pressed into the army. He had no means with which to pay his passage. He went to the captain of a vessel about to sail for the United States to secure a passage for himself and family, but the captain said he dared not take him, for if it was found 'out he would have to suffer the penalty ; but Mr. Baker, being very anxious to get away from the oppression, insisted on being taken. The captain finally agreed to take him and his family on condition they would suffer themselves to be shipped as ballast in the hold of the vessel, and remain there till the vessel had passed the boundary line of the German dominions. This they agreed to do. After getting his family secretly on board of the ship they were inclosed in large hogsheads or casks, with provisions enough to last them for several days. The casks were then placed in the bottom of the vessel with heavy ballast on lop of them, so they could not be readily reached.

After being in the vessel a day or two they left the dock and started on their perilous journey. After they had sailed about one day they were hailed by a government brig. The officers of the brig came on board to see if they had any contrabands. They were told to search the vessel for themselves, but failed to find any one. They then parted company and the vessels separated ; but the following day the same brig hailed them again and another search was made, witli the same result as the day before. They supposed they were now free from further molestation, but thought it best that they should remain where they were until they were past the German jurisdiction; and well for them that they did, for the following day they were again hailed by the same brig as before. This made the captain of the vessel wrathy ; he told the officers of the brig that they had searched his vessel twice before; now they might search it once more, but that they were within a short distance of his jurisdiction, and if they again attempted to stop him he would blow them out of existence ; but they were not disturbed again. The family were now liberated from their hiding-place and permitted to come on deck after being stowed away five days in their narrow prison in the hold of the vessel. They landed safely in the United States, and here, by au agreement previously made, they were sold for their passage. The father's time was sold for one year; the mother's for eighteen months, and each of the children for five years, wliieb time they each served out in full. In 1814 he moved to Greene County, O., and lived there till 1832, when he came to Shelby County to live with his son, John C. Baker, Jr. Here he died about a year afterward.

a son of John C. Baker, was born in Rockingham County, Va., in the year 1811. Came with his father to Shelby County in 1830, and located in the town of Sidney, where he learned the carpenter trade, which occupation he followed for twenty-five years in and about Sidney. In 1838 he married Miss Susannah Hartman. They have two children, viz., Aaron B., who was born July 13, 1846, and Josephine, born Aug. 31, 1856. The}' lost one son, David Clinton, in the army. He enlisted in the 20th 0. V. I. Died on a hospital boat June, 1863.

one of the early settlers of Salem Township, was born in Virginia, near Cumberland Gap, in the year 1815. He came with his father's family to Sidney in 1830. After staying a few months in Sidney they moved to the country, on a rented farm, where they remained two years, then moved to a piece of land in Salem Township, where his father had entered ; here he helped his father to clear his new farm. He also followed clearing land for others for a number of years. He says he has cleared at least 200 acres of land with his own hands and axe ; he would get from five to six dollars per acre for clearing. In 1837 he married Elma Shinn, by whom he has had eleven children, eight of whom are still living. When Mr. Baker commenced housekeeping he did not have a dollar in the world ; he worked by day's work at fifty cents per day to get provisions to live on ; would clear land nights, often working till after midnight; has grubbed many days with nothing to eat but cold corn pone, and was so hard pressed at one time that he sold his only cow to pay for provisions to live on. But few of the early settlers of Shelby County passed through harder times than did Mr. Baker. He in his younger days was one of the most athletic and strong men in the county. He has been known to shoulder five bushels of wheat in one sack; but has now retired from the active duties of labor. In politics is a radical Republican. In religion he is a Methodist, being a local minister in that church.

was born in Butler County, Ohio, in 1805. The names of his parents were John and Susan Long McCashen. Mr. McCashen came to Shelby County to live in 1833, but had entered his land in the year 1826. In 1839 he married Mary Line, who was born in Brown Count}', Ohio, in 1821. They have two children, James and Joseph L. ; the first was born in 1842, the latter in 1845.

Three brothers by the name of Kirkland came from Scotland to the American Colonies prior to the old French war. The name of one was James, those of the other two have been lost. James afterward married, but when or to whom we cannot learn. He raised a family of four children, Elisha, Elias, Deborah, and James. He was killed in the French War on Lake George.

Elisha and Elias were both soldiers in the Revolutionary War. Elisha was taken prisoner by the British, put on board a prison ship off New York Harbor, where he, with the other prisoners, were poisoned by slow poison, from the effects of which many died ; he lived to get home, but died soon afterward. Elias also was taken prisoner, but by the Indians. He being an excellent blacksmith, his life was saved, and he was sent to Canada to work for the British, where he remained until the close of the war, then settled in Blemford, Mass., where he died. Deborah married William Dee, lived in Saybrook, Conn., and died childless.

James was in the army at N. Y. when Washington retreated from Long Island, and was present at Danbury and saw Gen. Wooster shot. He afterward married Elizabeth Morehouse. It was he who changed the name from Kirkland to that of Kirtland, since which time it has been so written. He lived for a time in Fairfield, then in Cornwall, Conn., after which be moved to BaiTibridge, N. Y., where he died. He was the father of Elisha, Elizabeth, James, and William. Elisha was born in Cornwall, Litchfield County, Conn., in 1777 Married Hannah Peck in 1801, and settled in Chenango, N. Y., where he remained until the summer of 1817, when he immigrated with his family to Ohio, and entered land and settled on the bank of the Miami River one mile below Port Jefferson, on what is known as the Pampell farm. Here he made an opening in the forest and erected his cabin. His family at that time consisted of three children, Elias, Anna, and William. Mr. Kirtland was tall, robust, and well built, of light complexion, and well adapted to backwoods life. He was on friendly terms with the red man, who often visited his home. He died on this place in 1840, and was buried in the old cemetery in Sidney. Hannah, his wife, died on the old homestead, January, 1841, and was buried by the side of her husband. Of the three children, Elias was born in Chenango County, N. Y., 1804; died in the spring of 1822. Anna was born Oct. 27, 1806. Married Thomas Wilkinson Nov. 29, 1825, and died March 15, 1852.

was born in Chenango County, N. Y., July 18, 1811. Was married to Miss Sarah Bryan, of Shelby County, August 30, 1832. She died at the Kirtland homestead, June 17, 1848, aged thirty-two years, and was buried in the cemetery one-half mile west on the Staley farm, where lay four of her daughters, who died young. Mr. Kirtland married for his second wife Miss Frances Jennings, June 21, 1849. In the fall of 1854 he, together with his wife and two sons, Elias and James, moved to Cass County, Ind., where he died in May, 1863.

Some time during the eighteenth century three brothers of the Le Fevre family came to the United States from France, and located in Frederick County, Md. They were of the Huguenot race. These three brothers remained in Maryland for several years. Finally they separated. One went to New York State. One went south and located in one of the Southern States. Elias, one of the three, and grandfather of the subject of.this sketch, died in Maryland. He had seven sons and one daughter, all of whom came to Ohio. Some coming as early as 1802, others not until 1807. They located in Warren County. It was here that Elias was born in the year 1809. In 1832 he married Henrietta L. Ingersoll, a daughter of Benjamin and Laura (Rose) Ingersoll. She was born in the State of New York in 1811.

Mr. and Mrs. Le Fevre, with two children, came to Shelby County in 1835. He entered 160 acres of land in Salem Township. On this land he made his home until he died in 1882. Mr. and Mrs. L. reared a family of seven children, viz., Jacob M., born 1833; Henry J., born 1834; Nimrod D., born 1837; Benjamin F., born 1838; Laura A., born 1842; Mary L., born 1846; and George M., born 1851, five of whom are still living. Laura A. died in 1878; Jacob M. in 1882.

Esq. Le Fevre gave his children a fair common school education. Some of them became teachers. Jacob M. entered the ministry in the Reformed Church. Nimrod D. became a practising physician. The Honorable Benjamin F. is now filling his third term as member of Congress from the Fifth Ohio Congressional District.

was born in Warren County, Ohio, in the year 1813. He was a brother of Elias Le Fevre, Esq. He married Eleanor Morgan in 1837. The following year they came to Salem Township, and located on a piece of wild land, erected a cabin, and commenced the improvement of his land. After a few years of hard toil, just as he was beginning to get a start in life, and everything looked prosperous and bright, he was called away by the "grim monster death," leaving a wife and four small children. The names and dates of birth of the children are as follows: Mary J., born 1838; Morgan A., born 1841; Jacob M., born 1843; and Henry J., born 1846.

After the death of her husband Mrs. L. rented the farm until the year 1851, when she married Thomas D. Steward, who took charge of the farm until the breaking out of the Rebellion, when he entered the atmy, where he contracted disease, came home, and died in 1862, leaving three children: John M., born 1851; Millard F., born 1856; and Ansel M., born 1858.

was born in Salem Township in the year 1841. He is the eldest son of Henry J. Le Fevre. Mr. L. has twice been married. His first wife was Mary C. Harper, who died in 1874, leaving one child, Lizzie A. His second marriage was to Maria M. White, who was born in Logan County, Ohio, in 1846.

the second son of Henry J. Le Fevre, was born in the year 1843. He was reared on a farm, and has made farming his avocation through life. In 1866 he married Dulcennia Line, a daughter pf Solomon and Eliza; beth Line. They have had born to them six children, viz., Edmund, William 0., James T., Jacob W., Allie, and Minnie D.

the youngest son of Henry J., was born in 1846. He is a blacksmith by trade, but does not follow it as a business. In 187 1 he married Miss Sarah E. Stephens, who only lived until 1875, when she died, leaving two children, Claudee E. and William M.

Mr. L. has a large collection of archaeological implements, mostly gathered on his own farm. Among the collection is the largest stone axe known to be in existence. The collection is worth seeing.

was born in Warren Count}', Ohio, in 1815, came to Shelby County, 0., in 1838, married Miss Massa Le Fevre tjie same year. Mrs. Duvall was born in Warren County also in 1817. They raised a family of six children, viz., Jacob B., born 1838; Mary A., born 1840; Sarah S., born 1842; Mclessa C., born 1844; Man ford G., born 1846; and Elias L., born 1848. When they moved on to their place they cut the first stick to build their cabin. Sir. Duvall died in 1876.

the eldest son of the above, was born in this county in 1838; raised on the farm of his father. In 1869 he married Miss Louisa Armstrong, of Logan County. The issue from this marriage is seven children: Mary B., born 1869; Emma M., born 1871; Oliver B., born 1873; Cora C., born 1875; Alvin A., born 1877 ; John F., born 1879; and Clyde W., born 1880. Mr. D. is located in section 6, and has a fine farm with good improvements.

was born in Salem Township in 1848, and is the youngest son of Nimrod Duvall. In 1873 he was married to Anna A. Scott. They have but one child, viz., Wallace, born 1875. Elias now owns the old homestead of his father in section 6.

was born in Logan County in 1839. Came with his father, Thomas D. Steward, to Shelby County in 1852, when in 1865 lie married Miss Melessa C. Duvall. They have had five children: Eliza H., born 1866; John L., born 1868; Lucy I., born 1872 ; Alpha 0., born 1876; and Milward F., born 1878. Mr. S. is located in section 6, Salem Township.

was born in Shelby County in 1835. He is a son of John and Elizabeth Boldin Staley. In 1859 he married Rebecca Allen. They have had born to them seven children: Albert E., born 1860; Alonzo E., born 1864; John S., born 1867; Dolly M., born 1872; Jacob E., born 1874; Katie M., born 1877; Charles F., born 1879. Mr. Staley was raised a farmer, and lived on a farm till 1874, when he bought a hotel in Fort Jefferson, and has been the proprietor of the Staley Hotel since that date.

was born in Logan County in 1852, but his ancestors were among the early settlers of Perry Township, but the date of their settlement cannot be given. In 1875 Mr. H. married Miss Sarah Le Fevre. They have two children: Edward R., born 1877; and Sadie E., born 1880. They are located on section 5.

Peter Epler was born in Northumberland County, Pa., in 1804. His ancestors were of German origin, but the time of their advent into the United States is not known to us. After arriving at his majority lie came westward and stopped for a time in Muskingum County, Ohio. It was here in the year 1830 that he married Miss Rachel Ward, who was born in Muskingum County in 1814. Shortly after marriage Mr. Epler came to Shelby County and entered eighty acres of land in Perry Township. In 1831 he brought his wife and one child to this land. They first moved into a house belonging to Mr. Maxwell, until they could clear a spot of ground and erect a cabin. When they landed in Shelby County they did not have five dollars in money left. They worked by day's work to get provisions to live on. Mr. Epler cut and split rails at twenty-five cents per hundred ; Mrs. Epler working out in the clearing, picking brush and helping to roll logs in order to make themselves a home. Their life in the woods was like that of all early settlers who had no means of support but their willing hands. The rifle never had any charms to him ; his time was all spent in clearing his farm. They reared a family of nine children, viz., Jacob, born 1830 ; Elizabeth, born 1833 ; Thompson, born 1834; Benjamin C., born 1838; Maria, born 1840; Newton, born 1842; Lucinda, born 1845; Mary D., born 1847; and Martha, born 1851. After making for himself a comfortable home, Mr. Epler passed away from this life in 1861.

Jacob Epler, the eldest son of Peter Epler, was born in Muskingum County, O., Aug. 2, 1830, consequently was only a few months old when brought to Shelby Count}'. He was reared on the farm and made that his business through life until 1875, when he, together with his brother Thompson, bought a steam saw mill in Tileton, which they have run successfully since that time. In 1864 be entered the military service of the United States and served the time of his enlistment. In 1877 he married Sarah J. Hill, of Logan County, O.

Benjamin C. Epler, the third son of Peter Epler, was born in Shelby County in 1838. He too, like his brother, was reared on the farm, but after arriving at manhood he learned the blacksmith trade, which he has followed since that time, making for himself and wife a fine home, all hammered out on his anvil. In 1876 he married Miss Nellie Drake. Mr. Epler, by his industrious and honorable life, has the esteem and confidence of his fellow-citizens, who have elected him treasurer of his township seven years.

a son of James and Sarah A. (Young) Haney, was born in Port Jefferson in 1848; married Lida A. Croy in 1869. They have had born to them four children.

was born in Ireland in 1808. In 1819 he was brought to the United States by his father (John Gilfillen). Shortly after their landing in the United States they located in Clermont County, O., where he remained until 1832, when he came with his father to Shelby County, but afterward returned to Clermont County, where in 1*34 he married Maria Carr. Some two or three years later he moved with his wife to this township, where he resided until the time of his death. They reared a family of eight children, whose names are as follows: Sarah J., John G., Granville M., William, Rachel, Mary E., Charlotte, and Marianne. Mr. G. was one of the hard-working men of the county ; he made a success of farming, and became one of the wealthy farmers of the county. During his life he erected upon his farm fine buildings, but just as he became so as to live with comfort he was called away. He died regretted and respected by all. He died Sept. 1879; his wife had died Sept. 1868. The homestead now belongs to Bailey W. (a grandson), who was born 1861, and who is at the present time taking a course at Delaware College preparatory to the study of law.

The grandfather of Dr. Miller was born in Ireland, came to the Arne-, rican colonies some time prior to the Revolutionary War, for we find that he served as a soldier in the American army during that struggle, and was wounded and taken prisoner at Quebec. He died at Lancaster, Pa., in the year 1836. Alex. Miller, a son of the above, was born in Pennsylvania 1784. He held a captain's commission during the war of 1812, and was provost marshal at Lancaster, Pa. He married Sarah Lovett in 1820. She was of Quaker parentage, who came from England. They reared a family of six children. John F., one of the six, was born in Lancaster, Pa., in 1833. In 1839 his parents moved to Dayton, O., where John remained until 1854, when he came to Port Jefferson and commenced the study of medicine under Dr. S. C. Hussey, and attended Starling Medical College in 1 857- Immediately afterward he commenced the practice of medicine in Port Jefferson, which he has continued successfully since that time. In 1858 he married Miss Margaret I. Henry, a daughter of David Henry. By this union they have two children, viz., Judson C., born 1865, and John E., born 1870.

was born in Shelby County in 1847. He is a son of John Crumbaugh, an old pioneer of Perry Township. In the year 1868 he commenced the study of medicine, and graduated and received his diploma from The Ohio Medical College in 1872, and commenced the practice of medicine at Port Jefferson the same year, where he still remains. In 1872 he married Lauretta Barkalow, with whom he lived until March, 1874, when she died, leaving one child, Vernon B. In 1878 lie married Lucy Ward. By this marriage there is one child, Alma, born 1879.

Salem Twp. Shelby

was born in Portage Count/, 0., in 1847. When at a proper age he was apprenticed to learn the harness-making trade. This he followed some fifteen years; he then engaged in buying produce for several ydars ; he then engaged in the secret service. While on duty in the winter of 1881 on the C. C. C. & I. R. R., the train was wrecked by a broken rail, and he was severely injured, from the effects of which he has not entirely recovered. In 1870 he married Miss Cornelia Ogden, of Port JefTerson. By this marriage there are two children, Harry 0. and Charles W.

The Harsbbargers are of German origin. They came to America during the early settlement of the colonies. The first we can learn of them was in the person of Jacob Harshbarger, the grandfather of Isaac, who was born in Virginia. To whom or when he was married we cannot learn. Of his children we only know of Jonas, the father of the subject of this sketch; he was born in Virginia in the year 1800. He came to Montgomery County, Ohio, in 1810. Here, in 1822, he married Hester A. Jacobs. In 1838 they came to Shelby County and located in Salem Township. They raised a family of eight children. Mr. H. died in 1872. His wife died in 1873.

Isaac Harshbarger was born in Montgomery County, O., in 1825; came with his parents to Shelby County in 1838. In 184G he married Johana Staley, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Bollin) Staley. They have reared a family of five children, viz., Martha, Wm. A., B. Franklin, Almeda, and Clemia. Mr. Harshbarger is a farmer by occupation, but has filled several offices of trust in both county and township. He was sheriff of the county from 1856 to 1863; was also coroner of the county.

was born in Clarke County, Ohio, in 1828; came with hfs father's family to Shelby County in 1839. He married Eliza J. Gray in 1852. They have seven children, Phoebe J., born 1852; John H., born 1855; Mary A., born 1857 ; Levina B., born 1859; George C., born 1861; Emanuel E., born 1863, and Samuel N., born 1865. George Kemp, the father of the above, was a pensioner from the war of 1812, came to Shelby County 1839, and settled on section 1, Salem Township. He died in 1876, in his 89th year; Mrs. Kemp, his wife, died in 1878.

the eldest son of Peter Rike, was born in Montgomery County in 1836; came with his father to Shelby County in 1853. In 1858 he married Miss Sarah J. Gilfllien. They have had born to them five children, viz., Wm. E., Helen E., Thornton J., Charles P., and David S. In Feb. 1862, Mr. Rike enlisted as a volunteer in the 57th O. V. I.; afterward re-enlisted as a veteran in the same regiment, and served until the close of the war.

a younger brother of the above, born in Montgomery County, O., in 1844. He married Charlotte Gilfillan in 1869. By this union they have three children, Ellis, born 1870; Viola, born 1872; and Alvernis, born 1874. James Gilfillan, the father of the two Mrs. Hikes, was born in Ireland, and came to America in the year 1820. He located in Clearmont County, O., and lived there till the year 1832, when he came to Shelby County and located in Salem Township, where he died in 1879. Mrs. G. died in 1867. The Hikes were originally from Germany. Their first settlement in the United States was in Pennsylvania, from there they went to Maryland. In the year 1812 they removed to Montgomery County, O., where they remained till their removal to Shelby County, O., in 1853.

was born in Darmstadt, Germany, in 1834. His father, Ernst Kraft, came to the United States in 1849 and located in Shelby County the same year. In a few weeks after landing in Sidney he died, leaving a family of four children. Ernst, the son, in the year 1850 went to learn the shoemaking trade. In 1863 he came to Port Jefferson and started a shop, which he still runs in connection with a stock of goods. In 1856 he married Helena Schmidt. They have nine children, viz., John, born April 16, 1857; George, born March 25, 1859; Margaret, born July 4, 1861; Clara, born March 7, 1866; Ernst, born Feb. 23, 1868; Charles, born June 26, 1870; Ellie, born Sept. 1, 1872; Willie, born Oct. 30, 1874; and Bernice, born March 7, 1878.

a son of Elias D. and Elizabeth Stockstill, was born in Shelby County in 1837. In 1859 he married Nancy Le Fevre, a daughter of David Le Fevre. They have had born to them eight children, viz., Thomas H.» Charles C., Elizabeth D., E. D. and Benj. F., Alonzo R., Ida R., and Samuel.

was born in Madison County, O., in 1848. He is a son of Joseph and Hannah (Baldwin) Counts. In 1881 he married Miss Margaret Hobby, a daughter of David Hobby of Salem Township.

was born in Virginia in 1863. Came with his father, John Louthain, to Shelby County in 1831, and located in the northeast corner of Salem Township. They were the first settlers in that part of the township, their nearest neighbor being two and a half miles distant. They had emigrated to Ohio from Virginia in 1812, and lived in Miami County until they came to Shelby County. In 1836 Mr. L. married Lucinda Stafford. From this union they have two children, John M. and Bicy E., the first born in 1840, the latter in 1849. Mr. Louthain died January, 1882.

was born in Virginia in 1849. Came to Ohio in 1872, and married Bicy E. Louthain in 1875. By this union they have two children, Parker L., born 1877, and Edward C., born 1879. They are located on the home of Parker Louthain.

was born in Greene County, Ohio, in the year 1819. He came with his parents to Shelby County in 1831. Here in 1841 he married Miss Anna Clayton, who was born in the same county the same year that her husband was. They have had born to them eight children, five of whom are still living. Reuben Clayton, the father of Mrs. McCormick, moved to Shelby County in 1835. James McCormick, grandfather of the above, was in the Revolutionary war, and was at the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown Oct. 19, 1781; also his grandfather Shearer was in the Revolutionary war, and James McCormick, Jr., the father of Valentine, was in the war of 1812, and was at the building of Fort Meigs. Esq. Valentine McCormick and his son James K. were both in the late Rebellion. James K. was enlisted in the 57th O. V. I., and it is supposed was killed while foraging in Feb. 1863, as he has never been heard of since that time. The McCormicks came to Ohio as early as 1791, and located near Cincinnati. They floated down the Ohio River from Pittsburg on a flatboat, having to fight their way against hostile Indians along the banks of the river. The father of Esq. McCormick was three years old at this time. From Hamilton County they went to Greene County, but the date of this removal is not known. In 1831 James McCormick, Jr., with his family, moved to Shelby Count)' and settled on sect. 34, Jackson Township, or what was at that time Salem Township, for Jackson was not organized at that time. Mr. McCormick was the first white settler in the territory of what is now Jackson Township. He entered his land in June, built his cabin in August, and moved to his land Dec 1, 1831. He was one of the organizers of the township, and one of the first trustees. Valentine McCormick has held nearly every office in the township. In 1849 he was elected justice of the peace, and served nine years in succession ; he has been trustee, treasurer, and assessor of his township. In 1871 he sold his farm in Jackson and bought 160 acres in Salem, where he now lives. Besides farming, Esq. M. has been quite a contractor in building gravelled roads or pikes.

was born in Germany in 1840; when six years of age he was brought by his father, Jacob Allinger, to Shelby County. Mr. Allinger is a miller by trade, having commenced that business in 1863. In 1877 he built the Port Jefferson Flouring Mills for Messrs. Manning, Dunlap & Co. In 1873 he bought the same, and is now running it. lie has ground as high as 52,000 bushels in a year; their average has been 46,000 bushels of wheat per year, besides other grains. In 1861 Mr. Allinger married Miss Mary Conner. They have three children, viz., Jennie, born 1862; Lope C., born 1864; and Minnie, born 1866. Mr. Allinger has been trustee of his townsliip four terms, clerk one term, and is treasurer of the township at the present time.

The ancestors of the Wingets of Shelby County were from England and Scotland. The date of their emigration to the United States is not known, but was prior to the Revolutionary war, for we find that both his grandfathers were in that struggle. They first settled in Pennsylvania. About the year 1800 they removed to Ohio and located, or rather stopped at Red Bank - now Cincinnati - where they remained during the Indian hostilities which were then going on along the borders of the Ohio. From there they removed to Tucker Station, Warren County, and from there to Greene County, O. Here the subject of our sketch was born in the year 1826. In the year 1829 his father, Win. W inget, moved with his family to Champaign County, O., and remained there till 1831, when they came to Shelby County and located in Perry Township, on a piece of land he had eutered iu section 18. Here in April, 1831, he moved with bis family into his cabin without a door, window, floor, or chimney, and commenced in the green woods without money or means. They made their start, undergoing all the privations and hardships of the early pioneer. It was here in the woods and in the cabin school-house that young Milton received a few months of school instruction. His father died when Milton was but thirteen years of age. The support of the family fell upon him and an older brother, who cleared the farm and maintained their mother and the younger children. In the year 1851 Mr. W. married Miss Elizabeth A. Thompson, and the following year, 1852, he bought the old Hathaway farm at Port Jefferson, where he now lives. He lived with his wife seventeen years, when she died in 1868. The following year he married Isabel Grossman, who died in 1873. In 1875 he married Elizabeth Middleton. From this marriage there are two children, viz., Minnie A. and Alice M. The mother of Mr. Winget is now living with him, in her eighty-second year, being born at Red Bank Station in 1800. Mr. Winget is well and favorably known throughout the county. He has filled the offices of County Commissioner and Infirmary Director, and various offices of the township in which he lives.

the subject of this sketch, was born in New York in 1816. In the year 1819 he was taken by his parents to Muskingum County, 0., where he lived till the year 1853, when he moved to Shelby County. In 1838 he married Miss Mary A. Launder, who was born in England in the year 1819. Their family consists of six children, viz., Elbert H., Isabel, Charles, Anna, Alice, and Cora. The Cargills originally are from Scotland, but the date of their emigration to the United States cannot be given. They first settled in the State of New York. The Launders, Mrs. Cargill's parents, came from England to the United States in 1820, and settled in Muskingum County. Mr. Cargill is located on section 3, Salem Township, on what is known as the Samuel Taylor farm, which was entered as early as 1821.

son of David and Mary A. Wyant Cargill, was born in Zanesville, O., in the year 1836. His father with his family moved to Shelby County in 1849. Here, in the year 1862, Andrew married Miss Sarah Stout. Their family consists of three children, viz., Ulysses E., born 1863 ; Laura A., born 1866; nnd Sherman G., born 1868. Abram Stout, the father of Miss Cargill, settled in Shelby County in 1830.

also a son of David Cargill, was born in Zanesville, O., in 1829. When twenty years of age he came to Shelby County. He learned the cooper trade, which he followed for several years; then bought a tannery, and for a number of years has been engaged manufacturing leather. In the year 1852 he married Margaret A. Strahlem. By this union they have five children, Medora J., born 1853; Mary A., born 1855; Ellen E., born 1858; Emma M., born 1866, and Sarah B., born 1868.

Mr. Watkins and his wife, Sarah (David) Watkins, with their six sons and three daughters, moved to Shelby County in 1841. They at first took a lease of a piece of land on which they located and lived some eight years. During this time they bought eighty acres of land in Salem Township. They cleared their lease and also their own land, and built a brick house and frame barn. They had not a dollar to pay on their land when they bought it; but by industry and eeonomj' they paid for this, and have since that time added farm to farm until they now, as a family, have over 900 acres. What is remarkable of this family is, that there has never been a death in the family except the father, who died in 1866. Thomas J. Watkins, one of the sons, was born in Pennsylvania in 1827. He married Miriam Howell in 1852, by whom he had one child (Lucetta E.). Mrs. Watkins died in 1855. In 1864 he married Elizabeth Hull. From this marriage there have been two children, viz., Naomi J., born 1865, and Mary E. A., bprn 1868.

was born iu Warren County, O., in 1824. Married Miss Elizabeth Mitchell in 1849, and moved to Salem Township, Shelby County, O., in 1852. They have had two children, Wm. E. and Adin W. The eldest son, Wm. E., a young man of promise, died very suddenly from hemorrhage while away from home, at the age of twenty-five j'ears. Adin, the youngest son, has his home with his father.

son of John and Nancy (Consolver) Horner, was born in Salem Township in the year 1843. When he was quite young his father died, and he was bound out to service till he became twenty-one years of age, but only remained in service till he was seventeen. He never had the advantage of an education, always having been kept at work. In 1868 he married Ellen Myers, a daughter of Daniel Myers. By this marriage they have three children, viz., Ida M., born 1869; Orista O., born 1872 ; and Dilla A., born 1875. Mr. II. is a farmer.

was born in Greene County, O., in 1819. Married Esther John of Montgomery County in 1841. Came to Shelby County in 1849. Their family consisted of three children, Sarah P., John C., and Benj. F. Mr. Rike's wife died May, 1875. In 1878 he married Mrs. Harriet Strahlem, the widow of David Strahlem, and daughter of George W. and Ellen (Thompson) Burgess.

Mr. Rike spent the greater part of his life on a farm; but, becoming somewhat enfeebled and broken down by hard labor, he retired from the farm and removed to Port Jefferson and engaged in the grocery and provision trade, and received the appointment of postmaster. In Sept. 1881, he passed away, esteemed and respected by all who knew him. Mrs. Rike was born in Seneca County, O., in 1835. Married David Strahlem in 1852. Their union was blessed with three children, viz., Ellen E., George W., and Minnie L. Mr. Strahlem died 1866.

The Husseys are of Irish descent. Came to the United States just after the close of the Revolutionary War, and located in North Carolina, where Christopher Hussey was born in 1781. From North Carolina they went to Tennessee; from thence to Greene County, Ohio, about 1810, where he married and raised a family of seven children. Stephen C. was the third child of this family. He was born in Greene County in 1819. In 1840 he married Miss Ann Wical. About 1843 he commenced the study of medicine, and graduated at Starling Medical College. In 1848 he came to Shelby County, and commenced the practice of medicine at Port Jefferson. He continued the practice of his profession at this place until the time of his death, which occurred in 1871. They raised a family of eleven children. Mrs. Hussey and ten of the children are still living.

Allen Hussey was born in Greene County in 1848, about three months prior to the time his parents settled in Port Jefferson. He was raised in the village, worked on the farm until he was seventeen years of age. From this time he gave his attention to books, and soon commenced to read medicine with his father, teaching school and reading medicine at the same time. He graduated at the Ohio Medical College of Cincinnati in 1872, and immediately commenced practice in Port Jefferson, where he still continues his profession. In 1871 he married Miss Jane Goble, a daughter of E. D. and Rebecca (Mattox) Goble. Their children are Wirt D., Howard, Weber A., and Ada B.

Dr. Hussey has been a successful practitioner since the time of his commencement. He has filled the office of township clerk, and at the present time is one of the trustees of the township.

Samuel Mitchell, the grandfather of the above, was a native of England. Came to the American colonies just prior to the Revolutionary War, and located in Pennsylvania. He and four of his brothers were drafted into the army. Here they became separated, and all trace has been lost of all except Samuel, the ancestor of the Shelby County Mitchells. He served through the war, and was at Yorktown at the surrender of Cornwallis. After the close of the war he settled in Montgomery County, Pa., where he married Melenda Cecil. They raised a family of eleven children. William, the eldest son, was born in Virginia in 1782, married Catharine Stafford, came to Ohio in 1808, and located in Miami Count}-, where he raised a family of eight children. He served as a soldier in the war of 1812. He died in 1869, on the farm on which he first settled, at the age of eighty-seven years. His wife died in 1867.

George J. Mitchell, the subject of this sketch, was born in Miami Coun^ in 1816. He lived with his parents until twenty-three years of age, when he married Amanda F. Robinson in 1839. By this union they had three children, viz., Samantha J., William M., and Aden W. They moved to Salem Township in 1849, and located where Tileton is now situated. Here Esq. Mitchell and his estimable wife for fourteen years labored together, and had made for themselves a comfortable home, when she was called away by the hand of death in 1863. In 1870 he married Elizabeth Maxon, and the following year sold his farm, and bought property iu Port Jefferson, where he now lives a retired life, having acquired a competence for his remaining days. He has filled the office of justice of the peace eighteen years, besides other offices of the township. The Maxons came from Virginia to Ohio in 1831, and located in Clarke County. Then came to Jackson Township, Shelby County, in 1839, where Mrs. Mitchell lived until the time of her marriage in 1870.

county. Ransom was raised on a farm, and educated in the common schools of the county. In 1868 he married Samantha A. Hammack. By this union they have three children: Jennie E., Leonard E., and Leroy H. In 1869 he bought a farm, which he sold in 1871, and bought another, which he sold in 1881, and bought property in Tileton, Shelby County, to which he moved the same year. Here he started a store of general merchandise, and has established a flourishing trade. Mr. Earl is also postmaster.

was born in Germany in 1801. Married Mary C. Kile in 1827. Came to the United States in 1832. They landed in Baltimore with only thirty-seven cents in money left after paying his expenses. They remained in Baltimore a short time, then went to Little York, where they remained until about 1838, when they came to Port Jefferson, where Mr. T. took a contract on the canal feeder, which he completed. He afterward bought a farm in section 9. They raised a family of three children: Nicholas, born 1828; Peter M., born 1843; and John, born 1845. Mrs. Trapp died 1878, aged seventy-four years. Mr. Trapp died in 1881.

Peter M. Trapp, the second son of the above, married Marianna Gilfillen, a daughter of James and Mariah (Carr) Gilfillen, in 1866. Their children consist of the following: Annetta T., Bailey A., James P., and Fletcher B.

William Staley was born in Montgomery County in 1821, came with his father, John Staley, to Salem Township in 1831. In 1844 he married Barbara Harshbarger, a daughter of Jonas and Ilettie (Jacobs) Harshbarger. They had born to them four children, only one of whom is now living, viz., Oliver C., who was born in 1847 and married Miss Anna Cargill in 1869. They have two children, Orrin C. and Roger W. Mr. Staley, although comparatively a young man, has gained the esteem and confidence of the people of his township, which has been evidenced by his election to the offices of township clerk and trustee. He is located on section 20, known as the old John Staley farm.

was born in Warren County, 0., in 1804. In 1825 he married Miss Matilda Le Fevre. In the year 1833 he entered his land in Salem Township, but did not move on it till the year 1840. By this marriage Mr. Dodds had fourteen children, seven of whom are still living. In the year 1861 Mr. D. enlisted in the 57th O. Y. I. and was wounded at the battle of Shiloh, after which lie was discharged. He also had two sons in the army, both of which were wounded At the battle of Atlanta and died from the effects of their wounds. Mr. Dodds' wife died in 1871, and he again married in 1872; he married Mary A. Le Fevre, the widow of David Le Fevre. Mrs. Dodds' maiden name was McKee. Thomas A. McKee, her father, settled in Orange Township, Shelby County, in 1809. He hewed the puncheon for the first floor that was laid in the town of Piqua.

was born in Baden, Germany, in the year 1828, came to the United States in the year 1853, and first located in Fairfield County, Ohio. In 1856 he married Sarah Knasle. They moved to Shelby County in 1857, and rented land for a number of years. In 1863 he bought a piece of land; had only three hundred dollars to pay on it: he now has 160 acres of good land, well improved. They have raised a family of eight children.

was bom in Stark County, O., in 1814. Here he lived till he was past twenty years of age. While in Stark County he learned the tanning and currier trade. In 1834 he came to the town of Sidney and leased a tannery. He followed that business about nine years, then bought a farm in Clinton Township and moved on his farm. This farm he traded for one in Salem Township in 1875, where he now lives. In 1841 he married Catharine Wilkin, whose parents (Stephen and Sarah Wilkin) came to the county in 1837.

was brought by his parents to Shelby County in 1833. He was born in Greene County, O., in 1832. His parents located on a piece of land in Jackson Township, being nearly the first settlers in the township. Two years after their settlement the father (Joseph Bruner) went one day to where Port Jefferson now is; it was the day the lots were sold for the town. He remained all day at the sale. In the evening he started for home. This was the last that was seen of him alive. The country from where he lived to Port Jefferson was all woods, without a road. It was supposed he got lost. The following day the people of the country were aroused and collected together to search for the lost. Although diligent search was made by everybody throughout the whole country, yet they failed to find him. About a month afterward some three or four of the neighbors were passing through the woods when they came upon the bones of a human bein');. They were identified by some pieces of clothing as the remains of Joseph Bruner. It was supposed he had got lost and was attacked by some wild beast and killed. His remains were found some three miles from home. Mrs. Bruner was now left with four small children, in the woods, with only about three acres of cleared land. Here Mrs. B. and her children remained and worked on their little place to maintain themselves as best they could. "When John was ten years of age his mother died, and he was thrown upon the world to care for himself. After he grew up to manhood, having acquired a fair education, he commenced teaching school, which he followed for a number of years. In 1856 he married Miss Minerva Dunston. In 1866 he moved to Putnam County, lived there till 1875, when his wife died. In the spring of 1876 he returned to Shelby County. In March,' 1877, he married Margaret A. Staley, a daughter of Nicholas Staley. Mr. B. has had no children by either marriage, but has adopted a brother's son (Albert L. Bruner). He has quite a taste for music, and has made it a study, although lie never had the advantage of a musical education except as he learned it himself by study at home. In 1871 he took out a patent for a transposing board, for the transposition of the musical scale, which is quite an ingenious and useful implement, making the transposition of the scale simple and easy for beginners.

the subject of this sketch, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, in 1819. When only eighteen years of age - in the year 1837 - he bought eighty acres of land in Salem Township, all in the woods. He commenced to clear his land, hired his board, but soon got into debt for his board. He then returned to Hamilton County, and borrowed money to pay his board bill. Again returned and worked on his land till the taxes became due. His taxes were only from one to three dollars, yet he says it was harder to raise that amount than it has been since for him to pay four hundred dollars. Money was not to be had for anything. After he began to raise produce on his land for sale, if he wanted a barrel of salt, or any other article, he would have to go to Cincinnati to find a market for it. Mr. Hobby has always been a man of feeble health, and very much of their success in life has depended upon his wife, who has always gone ahead in their labor, and did not only her part of the labor in the house, but that of her husband upon the farm, working out in the clearing both day and night ; also working at the loom and spinningwheel in the night time after working hard all the day helping to roll logs and burn brush. In this way they worked along, many times living on bran bread, until they have finally made for themselves a comfortable home. What was once a howling wilderness is now a beautiful farm, returning abundant harvests. Mr. H. has now 240 acres of well-improved land, all the product of his own labor and that of his estimable wife, who has stood by his side thus far through life.

Mr. Hobby married Eliza Slusser, who was born in Dayton iu 1818. They were, married in the year 1840. They have five children, two sons and three daughters, viz., Mary A., born 1841; Josephus, born 1846; Sarah A., born 1849; Seth, bora 1851 ; and Margaret B., born 1861.

was born in Brown County, Ohio, in 1833. Married Louisa Winget in 1855. They settled In Shelby County in 1867. They have four children: Mary E., born 1856 ; Charles W., bora 1859; Sarah E., born 1866 ; and Nancy B., bom 1«70. Mr. Line is a farmer by occupation; also a minister in the Christian Church.

was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1824. In 1826 he was brought by his parents to Turtle Creek Township, where he lived till the year 1856, when he moved to Salem Township. He was married to Miss Sarah Strouse in 1854. Their family consists of five children: Daniel W., Redosar E., Melinda J., William H., and Rebecca D. Mr. Burton is a well-to-do farmer, haviug 254 acres of valuable land, without an indebtedness of one dollar.

Bazzel Burton, the father of the above, first came to the county in 1816 with his wife from Pickaway County. He entered land in Turtle Creek Township. They came with all their effects on horseback witii two horses. The country was so new and wild that they soon got discouraged. So he gave a lease on a part of his land, and returned to Piqua, where he remained till 1826, when he returned to his land, and remained till he died in 1865. His wife died in 1860.

was born in Salem Township in 1848. In 1866 he married Sarah Stockstill. They have but one child, Eddie. The parents of Mrs. Stout (h. D. Stockstill) came to the county in 1834.

was born in Champaign County, Ohio, in 1817. He resided with his parents till they moved to Sidney in 1836. He learned the chair-making trade with his father, which trade he followed for some fifteen years. Then, in 1851, moved on to his farm in Salem Township near Port Jefferson, where he now resides. In 1842 he was married to Ceriah Wagoner. From this union they have only one child living, viz., William H., who was born in 1847. Now resides in Nebraska. Esq. Conklin's wife died in 1881. He has quite a reputation as a hunter. In the fall of 1837 he commenced camping out as a hunter, and has followed hunting every fall from that time to the present, in all forty-four seasons. There is a remarkable circumstance connected with Mr. C.'s hunting experience. In the fall of 1840 Mr. William P. Reed and Esq. Conklin camped together while hunting in Shelby County, and have camped together every fall from that time to the present season, in all forty-one seasons. They have hunted together all over Northwestern Ohio; also in Michigan, and the present season went to the woods of Wisconsin. Esq. Conklin has tiie esteem and confidence of all who know him. In the year 1876 he was elected justice of the peace, which office he now holds.

The Shinns are of English extraction, immigrating to America about the middle of the last century, and located in New Jersey. Here William Shinn, Sen., was born in 1787. He married Jane Peacock, and moved to Warren County, Ohio, in 1815, and remained there until the fall of 1834, when he came with his family of seven children to Shelby County, and located in Orange Township, where he died in 1862, his wife having died in 1834.

William Shinn, Jr., was born in Warren County in 1818. Came with his father, William Shinn, Sen., in 1834. In 1839 he married Denithia Stoker, a daughter of John Stoker. By this union there were five children. Mrs. Shinn died in 1878. The names of their children were Jane, Brendella, Milton R., Welford E., and W. Ross. Esq. Shinn has been unfortunate in the loss of his property, but has had the esteem of tiis neighbors. He has filled the office of justice of the peace for four terras, besides having filled almost all the other important offices in his township. Such has been the confidence of the people in the county in Esq. Shinn that he has had the nomination of representative twice, commissioner twice, and treasurer once. Although the party to which he belonged was largely in the minority, yet he only failed in being elected by a small minority.

was born in Miami County, O., in 1828. He is a son of David Estey, who was born in New Brunswick in 1802, came to the United States in 1825, and located in Miami County, O. It was here that William was born, and lived until twenty-three years of age. In 1850 he married Elizabeth Kerr and emigrated to Iowa, where he remained some thirteen years. In 1854 his wife died, leaving two children, Sarah C. and Simon. In 1862 he returned to Miami County, where in 1863 he married Sarah A. Dixon, who died in 1877. In 1863 Mr. E. moved to Shelby County, on land he had previously purchased in Dinsmore Township. He has been one of the largest landholders of the county. He owned at one time 640 acres of improved land. He has made farming his avocation through life, but has made the most of his money by buying and selling land. He now owns 240 acres of land in Salem Township, 240 acres in Dinsmore Township, and 40 in Franklin. In 1878 he married for his third wife the widow of Franklin Dill, whose maiden name was Nancy A. Baker, a daughter of Moses E. Baker, Esq., of Van Buren Township. By this marriage they have one child, Clyde, born 1880. Mr. Estey has retired from farm labor, having a competence for the balance of his days.

The parents of Mr- Pegg came to Ohio late in the fall of 1803, and located in Warren County among a colony of the Shakers, and gave all their property to the eolouy. The father was put into one family, the mother into another, and the four children into a different family. James Pegg was but an infant at the time his parents joined the Shakers. He was born in 1803. He lived in the colony until lie was twenty-two years of age. He was given a common school education, but never knew what it was to have a father or mother. After arriving at the age of twentytwo he began to go out among other people. He found that he had been blinded, and he determined to seek more congenial society, where he could be his own man and enjoy the society of his fellows. He now spent five years of his life travelling from place to place, learning the ways of the world, until he finally located in Montgomery County, Ohio. It was here, in the year 1830, that he married Jane Dean. They remained there until 1837, when he removed with his wife and two children to Shelby County. Two years later his wife died, leaving three children, Mary, Elizabeth, and Robert D. In 1841 he married Rebecca Bozarth. By this marriage they had two children, James M. and Henry F.

When we interviewed Mr. Pegg a few months ago for the above sketch, we found him hale and hearty for a man of his age ; but he has since passed away ; he died Feb. 1882.

John Covill, the father of Wm. H., was born in England in 1789, and married Elizabeth Ann about 1810. He was in the British army under Wellington at the battle of Waterloo. In the year 1831 he immigrated with his family to the United States and located in New York ; remained there until 1840, when they came to Sidney, but soon removed to Indiana, where he remained for a time, then returned to Sidney, where he died in 1865. Wm. H., a son of the above, was born in Lincolnshire, Eng., in 1818, and came with his parents to the United States in 1831. Shortly after his arrival in New York he was indentured to a wealthy sea captain ns a waiter about the house, but remained with him only two years ; then went to the country and worked on a farm until 1840, when he came to Sidney. Here he worked by the day, at fifty cents per day, sawing and chopping cordwood, and working on the canal. In 1843 he married Alvin Zerbe. In 1847 he made a visit to England, the place of his birth. On his return to Sidney he bought a team, and followed teaming and draying for about six years; then engaged in the dry goods and grocery trade until 1871. In 1873 he bought a farm in Salem Township, where he now resides. They have raised a family of seven children, viz., Mary, Emily, George, Sarah, Jane, John, and Charles. Mr. Covill has retired from active life, having a competence for the remainder of his days.

David Zerbe, the father of Mrs. Covill, was born in Pennsylvania in 1792, and was married to Elizabeth Sellers. Their family consisted of fifteen children. They came to Sidney in 1840, where Mr. Z. died in 1857. His wife died in 1859. Of this large family only two are left in the county.

a son of Wm. Honnell, was born in Greene County, Pa., April 14, 1827 ; came with his parents to Sidney in 1833; lived with them until 1843, when he went to learn the blacksmith trade. In 1850 he, together with his brother and several others, went to California by the overland route, returned home again in 1851, and located in Port Jefferson, where he resumed his trade of smithing for a time; then engaged in the hardware, tin, and stove business; afterward engaged in the agricultural implement trade, which he followed until 1878; since which time his business has been buying and shipping grain, handling about 100,000 bushels per year. Feb. 16, 1854, he married Sarah M. Mitchell. By this marriage they have had three children born: William B., the eldest, died August, 1855; Elmore M. was born Feb. 15, 1858, and resides in Port Jefferson ; is engaged in the grocery and produce trade: Eureka D. was born Feb. 20, 1862, and resides with her parents.

Source changes here: from History of Shelby County, Ohio, and Representative Citizens, by Hitchcock, Almon Baldwin Carrington, published 1913; 3,974 words in this source stream.

Salem Township

The organization of Salem township took place June 5, 1826, when the county commissioners ordered that all that part of Perry township lying on the northwest side of the Miami river be formed into a new township and named Salem. It lies in the eastern tier of townships and its boundaries are Franklin and Jackson townships on the north, Logan county on the east, Perry and Clinton townships on the south and Clinton and Franklin townships on the west.

While the surface of Salem township is somewhat hilly along the water courses, it may be generally described as rolling. The soil is varied, with clay in some sections and in others rich black loam. The early settlers found here plenty of wood and water, this township being made green and fruitful by an abundance of springs which feed larger bodies of water here, including the Great Miami on the southern border, Rum creek in the east, Count's run in the central part and Plum creek on the east. This township is noted for its fine gravelled roads, the gravel being found in many places in the township.

Early Settlers

The first white settler in what is now Salem township is supposed to have been Charles Weeks, who located in section 20 about 1810 or 181 1. He was followed several years later by the Hathaways and Gilberts. Prior to 1818 the following people had come as pioneers : Jesse Jackson, Alexander Jackson, Elisha Kirtland and Caleb Goble. Adam Counts and Jacob LeMasters came in 1818 and within the next two years followed William Roberts, Samuel Taylor, George Morrison, Benjamin Beden, Joseph Donaldson and William Skillen. John Hathaway, in 1814 or 1815, built his log cabin near the spring at Port Jefferson. Alexander Jackson had the distinction of building the first hewed log house and John Johnston of erecting and living in the first frame one. The first road in Salem township was the Sidney and Bellefontaine road, which was surveyed by a Mr. Thompson. Later surveyors and civil engineers in Salem were Daniel G. Hull and Col. J. Counts.

Port Jefferson

Of the three towns surveyed and platted within the confines of Salem township, Port Jefferson, Tileton (now Maplewood) and North Salem, one - North Salem, platted in 1836 - has long since disappeared.

Port Jefferson, situated on the northwest bank of the Great Miami river, was surveyed and platted August 11, 1836, by Jonathan Counts, deputy surveyor for Ezekiel Thomas and Abner Gerrard, proprietors, and contained 93 lots and fractional lots. It is situated at the head of the Miami extension canal feeder, and was incorporated as a village in 1842. Its first mayor was E. H. West. The first settler here was John Hathaway. The first store was kept by Albert K. Hathaway, who was succeeded by John Ogden, other members of the Ogden family subsequently continuing the business. The present proprietor is Chas. W. Ogden. The first hotel at Port Jefferson was kept by Samuel Anderson and the first physician registered here was Dr. L. A. Davis. The first postmaster was Alexander Jackson and at that day the mail was carried on horseback from Sidney to Marysville. During the palmy days of the canal. Port Jefferson, being situated at the head of navigation, was a booming village and had a most brilliant prospect. Five warehouses were in operation and the cooper and stave shops employed at least 150 men. There was a grist mill, two asheries for the manufacture of potash, which paid seven cents a bushel for ashes, an important source of income to the fanners. There were also five stores doing a flourishing business. With the advent of the railroad, however, all this was changed. The canal as a means of transportation was abandoned and Port Jefferson's hopes of a brilliant future were blasted. The present population of the village is 233.

Schools And Churches

Although ir was not until 1858 that Port Jefferson was organized as a special school district, schools had been maintained in the township for many years previously. At first they were subscription schools, each householder paying his due proportion of the expense. Later taxes were assessed for school purposes. It was a long time before adequate buildings could be provided and even then only through some particular display of public spirit, while at the same time it was often a difficult matter to secure competent teachers. After the organization of the special school district at Port Jefferson, a onestory brick structure was large enough to accommodate the students, but later it was enlarged to two rooms, and in 1877 a fine brick schoolhouse was built, at a cost of $7,745, exclusive of furniture. At the time of erection of this building, which was at that time one of the most modern and complete in the county, the board of education was made up of the following members : R. B. Conklin, M. J. Winget, J. B. Nettleship, J. F. Miller, J. C. Ogden and William Manning. An account of the present educational facilities in Salem township, with interesting details in regard to the number of schools, enrollment, etc., may be found in the chapter on education.

And Representative Citizens 383

Methodist Episcopal Church - The records of the first organized society of Methodists at Port Jefferson have not been preserved but antedate 1830. The earliest church edifice was of log construction and stood near the old cemetery east of the town. Later it was removed to give place to a frame building, which sufficed until 1862, when a new building was completed and dedicated by Rev. R. D. Oldfield, then pastor. A Sunday school was established, which proved an important factor in the growth of the church and the building up of its membership.

The Miami Christian Church - In 1849 Rev. James Skillen and Joseph Warbleton organized the Miami Christian church at the home of John Mulford, the first members being Amos and John Mulford and their wives, Jacob Near and wife and Samuel Wiles. Much interest was manifested in the society and its membership grew rapidly. The first place of worship, a log church, was built in 1852, on land in Logan county, owned by Jacob Near, and continued to be used until it was destroyed by fire in 1871, when a frame structure was erected on Henry Kemp's land. This church has had an important influence on religious development in the township.

Public Officials

Earl Lodge No. 365, I. O. O. F. - A charter was granted by the grand lodge of the state of Ohio to W. B. Sandoe, J. Comer, E. H. Hopkins, J. F. Black, Wm. Dunlap, and Isaac Strahlem, May 15, 1861, to organize Earl Lodge No. 365, of I. O. O. F.

The first meeting of the lodge was held at Port Jefferson, July 13, 1861. G. M., W. F. Slater took the chair. The following officers were elected: W. B. Sandoe, N. G. ; E. H. Hopkins, V. G ; Wm. Dunlap, R. S. ; Joseph Comer, treasurer. After election they proceeded to the Methodist Episcopal church, where Grand Chaplain D. E. Thomas delivered an address, and the officers were installed by the grand master. The lodge room at this time was over the store of Joseph Comer. Some time later another lodge room was secured, which was afterwards burned, together with nearly all the furniture of the lodge. Meetings for a number of years were held in a room over the store of S. T. Thirkield. In the fall of 1832 the lodge secured the privilege from E. L. Kraft of building the second story on his new store building for a lodge room. This room they finished fcnd furnished at a cost of about $1,600.

Turtle Greek township was organized in 1820, but since that date has undergone some change in its boundaries. It occupies a position in the second tier of townships from the west, and has Van Buren and Franklin townships on the north ; Franklin and Clinton on the east; Washington and McLean on the south and McLean and Cynthian on the west. The surface is mainly level except along Turtle creek and its branches, where it is somewhat broken. The soil is black loam. In March, 1821, the township was laid out in road districts and in 1822, when organization was probably more complete, it was divided into four road districts. According to the early records life in this township was peaceful and public affairs were conducted ably and honestly by its leading citizens - heads of families which in many cases are still represented here.