Thompson Township

Thompson Township

THOMAS ARMSTRONG, farmer; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Licking Co. , Ohio, Feb. 20, 1820 ; came from there to Franklin Co., in 1832, andthsgice to Delaware Co., in 1863, where he has since resided. Mr. Armstrong is of Irish descent. He was married Jan. 23, 1854, to Miss Jane B. Chadwick, who is also of Irish descent ; from this union there were five children - Dora, Thomas B., Carrie M., Frances C. and Jennie M. Mr. Armstrong is a wagon and carriage maker by trade, a business he followed while living in Franklin Co.; since coming to Delaware Co., he has given farming and stock -growing his exclusive attention; he owns a farm of 150 acres of wellimproved land ; spent his youth and early manhood with his father, and received a good common-school education. Is a member of the M. E. Church, and in politics a Republican.

JAMES G. ADAMS, farmer and stock raiser ; P. 0. Prospect ; youngest son of Elijah and Nancy (Gary) Adams ; was born in Radnor Township May 7, 1826. In the father's family, there were eleven children - seven sons and four, daughters. The subject of this sketch passed his youth and early manhood on his father's farm, assisting him in clearing and improving the property that he had secured in Radnor Township. On the 9th of July, 1847, he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret M. G|((st ; after living one year with his father after his marriage, he moved to Marion Co., Ohio, living there one year, but, not liking his location, he removed to Thompson Township, where he has lived ever since ; he is the father of an interesting family of ten children - John Q., Nancy J., Martin L., Margaret E., Elijah I. (deceased), Mary L., Emma A., Arra A., James M. and one that died in infancy without being named ; of these, four are married^ John, Nancy J., Martin L. and Margaret E. The eldest of Mr. Adams' sisters was an M. E. Church missionary for two years among the Wyandot Indians of Upper Sandusky. Having a good common-school education, Mr. Adams started out a poor boy, choosing as his religious standard the M. E. Church doctrine, the Republican system in politics, and honesty and integrity in his course in life ; he has accumulated 200 acres of No. 1 laud in Thompson Township, and fifty acres in Radnor Township ; is a man that keeps thoroughly posted with the times ; his residence is beautifully situated on the banks of the Scioto River, and easily accessible to several good railroad points.

JOHN BONNER, farmer and stock-grower; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, May 25, 1828 ; his parents came from Ross Co., Ohio, in about 1826, purchased land in the forests of the county, and, with the aid of their sons, cleared it. The father and mother are both dead. Mr. Bonner remained with his father until about 18 years of age, -when he b4|;an working as a brickmaker, a business he followed but a few years, when he began farming and stock-raising, which he has ever since followed ; he deals some in fine cattle ; owns a farm of 133 acres of well-improved land. Was married in 1854 to

Miss Isabella J. David, whose parents are old settlers of Delaware Co.; by their union there were four ihildren - William S., Margaret A., Mary E. and Kay R.; the eldest of whom died in 1879. Mr. Bonner received a good common-school education, such as the schools of his early days afforded. He and wife are members of the Disciples Church, and he a member of the Democratic party.

J. W. CONE, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. 0. Radnor; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Jan. 6, 1809; his parents were natives of Luzerne Co., Penn., and came to Oxford Township, in this county, in 1807 ; at that time, there were but five families in that township ; they were of English descent. Mr. Cone is the youngest of a family of five children, and is supposed to be the only one now living. He was married to Miss Mary Williams Dec. 29, 1831 ; her parents were natives of Wales; came to America in about 1818, landing at New York ; came from there to Gallia Co., Ohio, where they remained until 1824, when they removed to Marion Co., stopping there but a short time, coming to this county in 1825, settling in Radnor Township, where there are still some members of the family residing ; from this union there were thirteen children, eight boys and five girls, twelve of whom are living, and the most of them are married. Mr. Cone is a woolen manufacturer ; built a factory on the Scioto River, south of the farm he now resides on, in about 1844 ; in 1874, his factory burned down, since which time, he has followed farming and stock-raising ; while running his factory, he invested the profits as he could spare them from his business in land, and now owns 480 acres, well improved. Politically, Mr. Cone is a Democrat.

PRIOR COX, farmer; P. O. Radnor; was born in Warwickshire, England, Jan. 22, 1826 ; came to America, in 1829, with his parents, landing at New York, going from there to Sandusky City by water, and from there came to this county, where he has resided most of the time since ; he is a son of Prior and Elisabeth Cox, in whose family there were six children. Prior being the fourth. He was married, April 10, 1851, to Miss Isabel P. Maize, who was born April 15, 1820 ; they have three children - William L., born April 10, 1852 ; James P., born April 17, 1854, and Prior J., born Sept. 10, 1857. Mr. Cox received such an education as the schools of an early day afforded in Delaware Co.; the first he attended was kept by Rev. Mr. Chidlaw, in Radnor Township ; at the age of 21, he commenced business for himself; made several trips over the mountains with sheep and hogs, driving them to Cumberland, and from there shipping them to Baltimore ; his first trip was in 1847, with sheep ; his next was in 1849, this time with hogs, which were much more difficult to drive, taking forty-three days to drive them to Cumberland. Mr. Cox now owns a good farm, which is well improved ; he has vivid recollections of the manner of living and the many hardships the settlers of the county had to endure. He and his wife and one son are members of the Presbyterian Church. His politics are Democratic.

JAMES P. CUNNINGHAM, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Jlichwood ; is a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born in 1804; he came to Fairfield Co., this State, in 1827, where he made it his home until 1840, when he removed to this county and purchased 110 acres of heavily timbered land, which he cleared and improved. Mr. Cunningham was married, in 1831, to Miss Catharine Carpenter, whose parents were very early settlers of Fairfield Co.; there were born to them four children, three.of whom are deceased ; Mrs. Cunningham died in 1877 ; Mr. Cunningham is by trade a carpenter, but has done very little at it since coming to Delaware Co., which time has been devoted to farming and stock-raising ; however, the last few years he, has retired from active labor, and his only son is working the farm for him. By the sturdy hand and long years of application, the forest land that, Mr. Cunningham purchased years ago has been turned into wellcultivated fields, and neighbors are to be found on every hand. According others the right to choose for themselves as to their political faith, Mr. Cunningham votes the Republican ticket.

SAMUEL DILSAVBR, farmer and stockgrower ; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Union Co., Ohio, March 29, 1844. His father came from Virginia to Union Co., at a very early day, and his mother was born in Union Co. Our subject resided with his parents until he was of age, working on the farm ; he received a limited education, but, by applying himself in that direction in his leisure moments, has acquired knowledge that enables him to do business in a business-like way. He was married, Aug. 16, 1865, to Miss Bethena Graham, whose parents were old settlers of Delaware Co.; she was iJorn Dec. 9, 1844 ; from this union there were three children, two of whom died in infancy ; the one living is Eva, born Oct. 19, 1871. Mr. Dilsaver made the most of what he now possesses by his own hard labor ; owns a farm of sixty acres of well-improved land. He has resided in Delaware Co. since about 1865, and has always followed farming and stock-raising for a business. Politically, he is a Democrat.

JOHN J. FLEMING, farmer; P. 0. Prospect ; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Aug. 17, 1826; the father is of Irish, and the mother of Welsh, descent; they came to this township in a very early day. John resided with his father until 24 years of age, at which time he began for himself; he has always followed farming; he made his start without money or property of his own, and now owns 100 acres of well-improved land ; received such an education as the schools of Radnor Township afforded when he was a boy. Has been married twice, the first was in 1850, to Miss Hannah Mills, by. whom there was one son ; his first wife died in December, 1872 ; he was married again in 1875 to Miss Christia Behtel ; her parents were old settlers of the county. By this union there was one child - Lida G. Mr. Fleming's politics are Democratic.

MARSHALL FIELD, farmer and stockgrower ; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Delaware Co._, Ohio, Sept. 20, 1841. His father was a native of Canada, and his mother of Pennsylvania; came to Delaware Co. in about 1818. The subject' of this sketch is next to the eldest of a family of fourteen children, two of whom are now dead ; his parents moved to Iowa, where his father died ; the mother still resides there. Mr. Field was married. May, I860, to Miss Sarah Houden; her parents are old settlers of Delaware Co ; came from Pennsylvania in a very early day ; from their union there are six children - Jennie, Ida L., Elizabeth, Hannah, Graoie and Freddie. Mr. Field was a member of the 121st 0. V. I. in the late war, and was with Sherman's army in all its engagements and movements, from Atlanta until the surrender of the rebel General, Joe E. Johnston, in front of Raleigh, N. C. ; he had nearly three years' service, and at the close received an honorable discharge ; he also had a brother in th^ war, who died at Mound City, 111. Mr. Field has followed farming excepting for a short time, when he worked in a s^w-mill for his father ; he began business for himself without any property, and now owns a farm of 70 acres, in connection with 50 acres that came by his wife, all of which is well improved, and the very best of soil. He remained at home with his parents until 19 years of age, at which time - he was married ; received a good common-school education. Himself and

JOHN FRYMAN, farmer, stock-grower, and^ manufacturer of draining-tile; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Tennessee April 30, 1805 ; when he was quite young, his parents removed to Pennsylvania, where they remained but a short time, then came to Belmont Co., Ohio. At the age of 21, John returned to Pennsylvania, where he was married, Jan. 15, 1827, to Miss Mary Smith, whose parents were natives of Pennsylvania, but came to this county at an early day. Mr. Fryman resided in Pennsylvania until 1835, at which time he came to Thompson Township and purchased 100 acres of swamp land, which he cleared and drained ; to this he occasionally added, until he became the possessor of about 400 acres,- some of which he has since sold, but still has about 300 acres remaining, which is well improved. He had a family of two sons only ; the eldest, Thomas, died at 14 years of age ; the next, Samuel, whose biography appears in this work, lives near his father, and is connected with him in the manufacture of draining-tile. Mary Fryman, the wife and mother, died Sept. 4, 1879. Mr. Fryman has always made farming and stock-raising his principal business ; he begairlife poor, making all that he now has by his own hard work and perseverance ; he resided with his father until of age, receiving a common-school education. Is a member of the Disciples Church.' Politically, he is a Democrat, but respects the opinions of others on that subject.

SAMUEL FRYMAN, farmer, stock grower and manufacturer of draining-tile ; P. 0. Richwood, Ohio ; is a son of John Fryman, whose biography appears in this work ; he was born in ( Pennsylvania May 10, 1833, and came to this county with his parents in 1835, with whom he resided until of age, receiving a common-school education ; he has been married twice : First, May 4, 1855, to Miss Hannah Bonner, who was born and raised in Delaware Co. ; from this union there were five children - John, Henry, William, Samuel A., and Mary, two of whom are now dead; the mother, died Aug. 15, 1864 ; Mr. Pryman was again married, Oct. 25, 1866, to Miss Catharine J. Snowdon, who was born in the adjoining county of Union ; by this wife there are eight children - Thomas, Benjamin, Willson, Nelson, Clara E., Walter S., Delilah and Mary A., one of whom is dead ; Mr. Fryman has always followed. farming and stock-raising, in connection with which he and his father had lately commenced the manufacture of drainiog-tile ; owns a farm of fifty acres which he cleared and improved. Himself and wife are members of the Disciples Church ; politically, he is like his father, a Democrat ; holds the office of Township Treasurer, an office he has had for the last five years ; he is an energetic man, and one of the good citizens of Thompson Township.

THOMAS LAVENDER, deceased; was born in Sussex, Eng., April 27, 1793 ; came to America in about 1818 ; landed at New York, going from there to Pennsylvania, where he remained until about 1836, when he came to Delaware Co., where he died Feb. 15, 1876; he was married twice; first in England about 1815 ; by this union there were five children ; the oldest, Luke, was born March 2, 1816 ; John, Nov. 24, 1817 ; Elizabeth, Jan. 26, 1820 ; Martha, Nov. 26, 1821 ; Thomas, Aug. 8, 1823 ; the mother, Elizabeth Lavender, died Dec. 5, 1823 ; Mr. Lavender wad married to his second wife, Maria Gear, in 1825, by whom there were eight children ; Sally was born Oct. 16,1825; Delia, June 16,1828; Leonard, Aug. 27, 1830 ; Jessey, Feb. 25, 1833 ; Permelia, Dec. 20, 1836 ; Laura, Jan. 6, 1839 ; Reuben, Aug. 27, 1841 ; Luther, Oct. 6, 1843. Reuben Lavender, the next to the youngest son, was married to Miss Jennie Curry May 2, 1865 ; she was born in this county Jan. 15, 1848 ; is the sixth child pf a family of nine children ; her parents were natives , of Licking Co., Ohio ; came to Delaware Co. in 1836; the subject of this sketch was a brickmaker by trade ; he burned the first kiln of brick and built one of the first brick houses in Thompson Township ; he purchased 153 acres of land when he came to the county, which, by the aid of his fons, he improved; Reuben'fell heir to this farm ; upon it he was born and raised ; it would be difficult to find a better one, and he will most likely spend his life there ; by his union with Miss Curry, there are three children - Ella E., born Nov. 3, 1866; Willie R., April 28, 1869; Clara B., Dec. 1, 1876. Like his father, politically, he is a Republican, and with his wife, member of the M. E. Church ; the parents were members of the Protestant Methodist Church.

CYRUS LARCOM, farmer ; P. 0. Richwood, Union Co.; was born in New York State in 1818 ; his father was a native of Connecticut, and mother of York State ; in about 1824 he went with his parents to Pennsylvania, where he resided until 1836, when they again moved ; this time they came to Delaware Co., Ohio, where our subject has remained ever since ; he is now living with his fourth wife ; his first marriage was, Aug. 28, 1840, to Miss Margaret Simpson, who was born Oct. 30, 1818 ; her parents were natives of Harrison Co., Ohio ; from this marriage there were three children ; the eldest, Levi, was born April 13, 1842; John T.. Feb. 2, 1845 ; Collins, Feb. 28, 1847 ; the mother of these children died about 1849 ; he was married Nov. 15, 1850, to Miss Mary Griffith, and from this marriage, seven children, all of whom are now living - Sarah D., born Oct. 1, 1851; Cyrus J., June 16, 1853; Samuel R., Sept. 23, 1855 ; Celestia J., Feb. 18, 1858 ; g,ophronia A., July 16, 1860 ; Rosella, Aug. 2, 1863;- Mary M., Oct. 6, 1866, and the mother was born Nov. 2, 1830, and died Nov. 29, 1869. Mr. Larcom then married Mrs. Johnston, who died Aug. 19, 1878 ; he married his fourth wife, Caroline Lister, May 27, 1879 ; she was born Sept. 21, 1824 ; he is a member of the Disciples Church, in good standing, and is a faithr ful. Christian man.

THE MONEY FAMILY, the original founder of which, in this country, was of English and Welsh descent, emigrated from England and settled in Fairfax Co., Va., in 1776. He was an ardent Methodist and placed himself where his active nature found plenty of earnest work for heart and hand to do, in the double occupation of preacher and farmer. There were born into the family four sons and one daughter - Ephraim, James, William, Nicholas and Nancy. The second son, James, was born in Fairfax Co., Va., about 1785 ; he, more than any of the other children, perhaps, partook of his father's earnest, active nature ; possessing but limited educational advantages, he made the most of such opportunities as were offered for mutual improvement, and following agricultural pursuits, he won an enviable position among his neighbors as a successful farmer. At the age of 23, he married Miss Mary Hutchins, a native of Virginia, born in 1791, the daughter of Francis Hutchins, Esq. There were born to them two sons and six daughters - Nicholas, Elizabeth, Mary Ann, Rachel, Lucinda, James W., Ruth and Frances Jane ; of these, Nicholas, Rachel and Lucinda are dead. James Money, the father of these children, died in his native State, in the prime of his life, respected and regretted by all. After the settlement of his estate, it was found that there was but little left, and Mrs. Money took upon herself the double burden of father and mother with a loving, heroic fortitude. Thus berett of her natural support, she learned to depend upon the oldest son, Nicholas, then a lad of 16 years, who nobly responded to the call of duty. In the fall of 1826, Mrs. Money with her family, seven in number, moved to Guernsey Co., Ohio. Their means had then dwindled to the sum of $10. Nicholas seeking work wherever and whenever it could be found, he found employment on the farm, or in building the national road, devoting his earnings to the support of the family. In these pinching times of want and necessity, he learned the salutary lessons of economy and industry. Deprived by famUy circumstances of the advantages of a liberal gducation, he employed his leisure hours in acquiring a practical culture which made him in .his later life prominent in his community. It had been Mrs. Money's constant care to inure her children to frugal and industrious habits and prepare them to act well their part in life. She died in 1834, in Muskingum Co., where the family had moved not long before.

Nicholas, whose portrait appears in this work, was born in Frederick Co., Va., Jan. 31, 1809, and since the death of his father had contributed largely to the maintenance of the family. Was married, in the fall of 1831, to Miss Maraba White, a native of Guernsey Co., where she was born in 1815 ; this union was blessed with children, but they did not survive infancy, and when the blossoms heralded the springtime of 1834, the mother, too, passed away. On July 30 of the following yearj' Mr. Money married for his second wife Susan Cunningham, who was born Nov. 19, 1801. This union resulted in the birth of four children, only one of whom is living. In 1876, after forty.-one years of married life, Mrs. Money passed away, and the subject of this sketch was a second time rendered a widower. The surviving child of this union is Catharine B. A. Money, who was born in this township Oct. 31, 1843. Mr. Money formed his third marital alliance Oct. 19, 1876, at which time Miss Margaret Gillet became his wife ; she was born Sept. 22, 1836, and by whom he had one child - Margaret, born Aug. 27, 1877.

In the month of November, 1836, Mr. Money moved to this township, where he bought 100 acres of woodland, upon which he settled and entered upon the task of preparing it for tillage. He afterward sold a half-interest to his brother, James W., with whom he did business as partner the rest of his life. In later years, the brothers gave their attention to sheep-raising, and became the most extensive in that business in Delaware Co., shearing sometimes as high as four thousand head. In 1879, at the age of 70 years, Nicholas Money laid down life's burdens and entered that sleep that has no earthly waking. His Ufe was one of unremitting activity. Forced by the death of his father to support the family he was, in his younger days, prevented from accumulating property, and began life for himself with scarcely a dollar; from this he succeeded ta affluence. Mr. Money was an earnest Christian, and a prominent member of the Disciples Church. In politics, he was first a Whig, and later, when new issues gave rise to the Republican party, he took an advanced position with it in favor of the Union and equal rights. His widow, with her daughter, lives upon the old homestead, and but a short distance from this is the residence of James, who had been so long associated as partner.

James W. Money, whose portrait also appears in this work, was born in Frederick Co., Va., March 2, 1821, and was 5 years old on the death of his father ; he came with the family to Ohio, and as he grew older, assisted in contributing to their support. The stern experience through which the family was called to pass taught him an invaluable lesson,, which has shaped his course through life ; having followed the fortunes of his kindred, he came to Thompson Township, and there, meeting with Miss Caroline Eussell, married her in February, 1848, in his 27th year ; three children were born to them - Elizabeth, Jan, 3, 1849; Henry, June 3, 1851, and William, Sept. 14, 1856 ; the daughter died Nov. 16, 1858. On the 27th day of May in the same year, Mrs. Money died, after ten years of wedded life. For over seven years, Mr. Money lived a widower, caring for his family, and engrossed in business. He subsequently met Mrs. Elizabeth Kile, of Union Co., and was married to her Oct. 26, 1865, with whom he is now living. Mr. Money has led an active life, and for thirty-one years was associated with his brother Nicholas in business; though some twelve years his junior, he was closely allied to him in tastes, education and pursuits, and is noted for his business ability ; the brothers held their property in common ; to the original purchase of land, they subsequently added until they were the possessors of 600 acres ; they also owned a large amount of stock, besides one-fourth interest in the Richwood Bank, of which Mr. Money is still a stockholder. In politics and religion, they were not divided, James being an earnest Republican and a pillar in the Disciples Church. It is with a satisfaction such as can be enjoyed by comparatively few that Mr. Money can take a retrospective view of his career. Beginning a poor boy, without assistance, he has struggled up through his own efforts to a position of wealth and influence ; he is eminently a self-made man, and may well be proud of his achievements.

JAMES MAIZE, farmer ; P. 0. Radnor ; was born in Huntingdon Co., Penn., Dec. 25, 1816, where he resided until about 17 years of age, coming to this county with his parents in 1833 ; is of Irish descent ; his father came to America in 1811 ; landed in New York, going from there to Pennsylvania, where he was married, in 1814, to Miss Margaret Leonard, by whom there were five children, James being the eldest ; two are now dead. The father, on coming to this county, purchased 100 acres of land, which, with the aid of his sons, he cleared up and improved ; he afterward purchased 100 acres more, which he also improved. Mr. Maize has been married twice ; the first time, to Miss Sarah J. Allen, Feb. 4, 1841, by whom there were four children - Wilson S., Aaron A., John L. and James A.; the mother of these died Oct. 9, 1848, after which he went to California, making the trip from Missouri by team, in ninety days ; he remained in California a little more than two years, working in the gold mines most of the time, and was quite successful, as he saved $2,700 from his earnings ; he returned to Ohio in June, 1852, by the Isthmus of Panama and New York, and from there to his old home by rail. His second marriage was to Margaret Williams Oct. 9, 1853 ; they had three children - Wilson P., Margaret A. and Mary I. Mr. Maize owns a farm of 180 acres of well-improved land. Had two sons in the late war, both of whom lived . to return home. He has been a member of the M. E. Church for twenty-one years. Politically, he is a Democrat.

JAMES A. MAIZE, manufacturer of draining-tile, and farmer ; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Delaware Co., Ohio, Aug. 30, 1846, and is a son of James Maize, whose biography appears in this work. He lived with his parents until of age, working on his father's farm, and received such an education as the schools of the country afibrded. He was married Dec. 14, 1872, to Miss Sarah A. Browning, whose parents were early settlers of this county. Prom this union there are three children - Clara M., Mary E. and Willie. Mr. Maize followed farming until the last few years, in which he has been engaged in manufacturing draining-tile ; has quite an extensive factory, and makes a superior quality ; has capacity to burn 1,400 rods of tile at a time, and he has labored to excel in this business, as well as in his farming, when that was his business, in both of which he has been quite successful. Himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church. Politically, he is a Liberal Democrat.

JAMES W. NOBLE, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Prospect ; was born in this county Jan. 18, 1841 ; is a son of George and Eliza Noble - the father is of Irish descent: - came to America in about 1835 ; the mother is a native of Pennsylvania. Our subject is the eldest of a family of seven children aqji is the only one now living. He was married Oct. 2, 1862, to Miss Matilda Wottring, who was born in Delaware Co., June 22, 1840 ; from this union there were six children, one of whom is now dead ; Martin W. was born July 3, 1863, and died Sept. 23, 1863; Reuben S. was born Aug. 13, 1865 ; William N., Aug. 11, 1867 ; Lydia B., Feb. 14, 1872; Laura B., Sept. 3, 1877 ; George L., Sept. 22, 1879. Mr. Noble has always followed farming and stock-growing - owns a farm of 84 acres of well-improved land; began business for himself without any aid and made all he now possesses by his own industry. He and wife are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Noble's political faith is allied with the Democratic party.

WILLIAM POWELL, saw-milling; P. 0. Prospect, Marion Co., Ohio ; was born in Marion Co., Ohio, Oct. 7, 1834 ; parents were natives of Pennsylvania and came to Marion Co. at a very early day. Our subject has from his boyhood followed milling, and is still in that business. He was married April 8, 1855, to Miss Malinda Gulp, whose parents were also natives of Pennsylvania and came to Delaware Co., Ohio, in about 1835 ; she was born March 6, 1838 ; from this marriage there was a large family of children, several of whom are now dead ; the eldest Margaret R. was born July 11, 1856 ; Florence G., July 10, 1858 ; Joseph W., Sept. 28, 1860 ; Rilla M., Oct. 19, 1862 ; Henry B., Dec. 6, 1864 ; Alice M., Oct. 4, 1868 Mary E., Nov. 27, 1873 ; Mertie B., Aug. 23, 1877. Margaret R. died July 11,1879; Henry E. died Nov. 14, 1867 ; one child died in infancy. In 1869, Mr. Powell went to Anderson Co., Kan., where he purchased a farm, did some farming, in connection with which he ran a saw mill, in the town of Greeley, in the same county. Becoming dissatisfied with the West, he returned to Delaware Co., Ohio, in 1876, where he has since resided and purchased a saw-mill on the west bank of the Scioto River, in Thompson Township, and is doing a good business. His grandfather lived to the age of nearly 1 02 years ; Mr. Powell's father was born in 1812, and is yet living. Our subject was in the late war, he went out with the 100-day men; was in Co. A, 145th Regiment; he was enrolled May 2, 1864, and received his discharge Aug. 24, 1864. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church, and live consistent with their belief.

EDMOND RUSSELL, farmer; P. 0. Radnor ; was born in Thompson Co., Conn., Feb. 5, 1818; is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Russell ; father was a native of Connecticut, mother, of Massachusetts. Mr. Russell came to this county with his parents in about 1819, where he has resided ever since ; is eldest of a family of seven children, two of whom are now dead. His father purchased 318 acres of heavily timbered land on the west bank of the Scioto River, in this township, and, with the aid of his sons, cleared it. Our subject resides on part of the old farm, which, since the father's death, has been divided among the children. The father died the night of Dec. 29, and the mother the morningof Dec. 30, 1856, and were buried in one coffin. Edmund Russell was married to Miss E. Milligan Nov. 8, 1843; her parents were early settlers of the county ; they had eleven children - six sons and five daughters ; the mother died Feb. 18, 1863. Mr. Russell remained a widower a short time, when he was married again to Mrs. Hannah Allen, by whom there were two children, making in all thirteen. Mr. Russell resided with his father on the farm until of age, when he began for himself, working awhile for his father by the month, and then rented part of his farm, and has followed farming ever since ; he received such an education as the schools of the day afforded, which, of course, was somewhat limited. Mr. Russell belongs to the Republican party.

J. F. SMITH, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. 0. Radnor ; was born in Niagara Co., N. Y., Dec. 22, 1836 ; came to Delaware Co. with his parents about 1838. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his mother - Fronca Frontz Smith - of Niagara Co., N. Y.; the father purchased 166 acres of heavily timbered land when he came to the county, on which his son, J. F., now resides ; .

it is now well improved and the very best of land. Mr. Smith resided with his father until 19 years of age, at which time he rented part of the farm and began for himself ; has followed farming ever since, in connection with which he deals some in stock ; was one of a company who imported at one time seven French stallions from France, at a cost of about $20,000, one of which he still owns. He was married, Jan. 5, 1865, to Miss Margaret A. Cone, daughter of J. W. Cone ; they have two children - Louanna, born Nov. 16, 1866, and Charles C, Dec. 28, 1867. Mr. Smith's father was a tanner by trade, a business he did not follow after coming to Ohio ; he was also a great hunter, and spent much of his time with the Indians, with whom he was very friendly. On one of his hunting expeditions, he killed a black bear with a hand-ax ; one of its tusks J. F. has yet, and prizes it highly. Mr.^mith received such an education as .the schools of an early day afforded in the country. Is a member of the Lutheran Church, and politically, a Democrat.

CHARLES SLOOP, farmer; P.,O.Richwood; was born in Ross Co., Ohio, Sept. 22, 1804 ; resided with his mother until of age,, when he began business for himself; his father died when he was young, and his step-father did not give him the advantages of an education ; but, after he became of age, he acquired a limited knowledge of the commoner branches, which enabled him to do business with fair facility ; he came to Delaware Co. in 1835, where he purchased land, and has resided ever since, with the exception of one year that he spent in Kansas, going there in 1870, and returning in 1871 to his old farm, where he expects to remain the balance of his days. Mr. Sloop was married, Dec. 25, 1831, to Miss Matilda Nepp, who was a native of Fairfield Co. Ohio ; was born April 3, 1812. From this union there were twelve children - Harrison, born Feb. 10, 1833; Eli, May 10, 1835; Mary J., April 20, 1838; Harriet, Deo! 8, 1839 ; Isabel A., Dec. 3, 1840 ; Isaiah, Oct. 7, 1842 ; Elizabeth, April 18, 1844 ; Hannah, Feb. 24, 1846 ; Matilda, Aug. 7, 1847 , Kliza, July 25, 1849 ; Margaret, May 18, 1852; John, Jan. 14, 1853. The mother of these children died Jan. 14, 1854. Mr. Sloop purchased, when he first came to the county, a piece of land containing sixty acres, which was heavily timbered ; afterward purchased fifty-three acres in connection with the first piece, all of which he cleared, and now is well improved. He is a member of the Disciples Church, and lives consist- , ently as a Christian. Politically, he is a Kepublican ; had several sons and sons-in-law in the late war. Farming and stock-raising has occupied his attention since starting for himself.

ELI SLOOP, farmer ; P. 0. Richwood ; was born in Thompson Township May 10, 1835 ; is the son of Charles Sloop, whose biography appears in this work ; he resided with his parents until 18 years of age, at which time he began business for himself ; has always followed farming, with the exception of a few years that he worked at the carpenter's trade. Was married, May 16, 1858, to Miss Martha J. Smith, who was born Feb. 21, 1837 ; herparents came from Fairfield Co., Ohio, to Delaware Co. in a very early day ; from their marriage there are seven children ; the eldest, Charles W., was born Dec. 23, 1859 ; Harrison, Jin. 8, 1861 ; John B., July 17, 1863; Violetta, Nov. 8, 1866 ; Benjamin F., June 17, 1871 ; Artemus, Dec. 19, 1874, and Flora, June 28, 1879. Mr. Sloop owns a farm of 105 acres of well-improved land which was purchased from the Government by S. Clark, and was transferred a number of times before the present owner became possessor of it ; Mr. Sloop made all he now possesses by hard work and economy. He served about one year in the late war, became disabled and was discharged in November, 1863 ; was in several battles, coming out of all of them without a wound ; was discharged on account of poor health. He and wife are members of the Christian Church.

J. P. WILLAUER, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. 0. Prospect, Marion Co., Ohio ; born in Pennsylvania Sept. 11, 1821 ; his parents were also natives of Pennsylvania ; he came to Marion Co. in 1854, where he resided until 1861, when he came to Delaware Co., which has since been his home. Our subject resided with his parents until of age, when he began business for himself; he is a miller by trade, a business he has followed for about fifteen years ; he quit the mill and bought a farm in 1861, since which time he has made farming and stock-raising his principal business. Mr. Willauer was married Dec. 13, 1846, to Miss Mary A. Shaifer, whose parents were also natives of Pennsylvania, where they still reside ; from this marriage there were seven children, two of whom are now dead, one dying in infancy ; those now living are Rachel M., Mary E., Theodore P., James R., Frederick S. and Samuel C. Mr. Willauer owns 101 acres of wellimproved land ; he is a member of the German Reformed Church, and, politically, a Democrat ; his wife is a member of the Lutheran Church, and a part of the family belong to the M. E. Church. REUBEN WOTTRING, farmer and stockraiser ; P. 0. Prospect ; born in Pennsylvania July 5, 1838, and came to Delaware Co. with his parents in 1839, where he has since resided most of the time ; his parents are natives of Pennsylvania, and are of German descent ; the father purchased a farm of 154 acres on coming to the county, most of which he cleared and improved ; our subje

Source changes here: from 20th Century History of Delaware County, Ohio and Representative Citizens, by Lytle, James Robert, published 1908; 2,052 words in this source stream.

Thompson Township

In following through the history of the settlement of this township, it will he noticed that but comparatively few families found homes here at so early a period as in adjoining townships, anil it was m.it until a late date that a sufficient number had been added to the neighborhood to enable themlfc 1 support those institutions that are necessary adjuncts to the well-being of all civilized communities. It is not surprising then that churches and schools were not instituted here until after they were enjoyed in almost every other locality throughout the country, Radnor and Scioto Townships being contiguous, afforded opportunities for those living in Thompson for worship, and it was to churches in these localities that the good people would make their regular Sunday journey. These, of course, were at times attended with some difficulties. The Scioto River intervened between Radnor and Thompson; this had to be forded, which in times of high water was not only a dangerous undertaking, but in the flooded stages impossible. Thus were the devout who journeyed in that direction either compelled to forego their accustomed pilgrimage to the temple of God. or avail themselves of similar privileges afforded in Scioto. It was not until about the year 1840, that religious organizations began to take shape here. About this time, the New Lights or Christians formed their society, and in 1843 erected a church on Tau Way Run, the Rev. Isaac Walters officiating as their first minister. Here they held their services until 1873. when the church burned down, it is thought through the act of an incendiary. Nothing daunted, and with commendable zeal, they immediately commenced their plans for '. new building, and this they completed in 1875. the site being one mile west of the old church. Since that the society has been disbanded.

The Methodist Episcopal organization, ii is supposed by some, existed prior to that of the Christian, but this is in doubt. The first meetings of the Methodists were held at the residence of Joseph Russell, and then in a small log church put up by them, in union with the Disciple Society. In this they worshipped under ministrations of the Rev. Ebenezer Webster, who was on the Richwood Circuit, this charge having been placed under that jurisdiction. A few years later, they were changed to the Delhi Circuit, and the congregation assembled at the house of Henry C. Flemming to hear the "word expounded," changing occasionally to other conveniently situated residences, and at times holding services in the neighborhood school house. In 1867 the}' were again changed, at which time the little charge was placed on the Prospect or Middletown Circuit, and there they gathered together in their little circles, constant in their adherence to faith and duty. During this unsatisfactory state of affairs, in 1868, they began agitating the question of building a church 01 their own. Accordingly one-fourth of an acre, situated on the State road, a short distance north of the covered bridge, was bought for a site, including space for a burying-ground. A subscription having been raised, work was immediately commenced for the construction of a frame building that would amply satisfy the wants of the people. At this time the society embraced in its membership but two male members, Henry C. Fleming and James Maize. To them belong a great share of the credit for the present prosperous condition of the organization. However, the ladies, constituting as they did a large majority of its strength, must have wielded an influence in shaping the course of affairs that cannot be ignored, and to them, undoubtedly, is due great praise for their active co-operation in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the society. The new church was finished the latter part of December, 1869, and dedicated the first day of January, 1870. by Rev. Benjamin Powell, at that time on the Delhi Circuit, Rev. Caleb Hill being the pastor in charge at the time.

And Representative Citizens

The first class was' composed of the following named persons: James Maize and wife, Henry C. Fleming, Ann Evans and James Fleming. The church is in a prosperous condition. Since the new building has been in use the following clergymen have filled the pastoral charge . Caleb Hill, A. D. Mathers. William Lance, Frank B. Olds, Henry Pilcher, John Hills, Benjamin Powell, and others.

Fulton's Creek M. E. Church is in the western part of the township, near the creek from which it is named. Their present meeting-house was built in 1868, and cost $1,100. It is a frame structure, conveniently located for the accommodation of the people, and well adapted for its purpose. The original trustees were Thomas Armstrong, John KennecK, Thomas Love, John G. Curry, Lewis Wolfley and Henry Perry. It was dedicated by the Rev. Mr. Henderson. The organization existed some years before the present church building was erected, the information in relation to time and its early condition not being accessible.

The New Disciple or Campbellite denomination have a comfortable frame church, situated in the north central part of the township, which was built in 1853, and dedicated the same year. The organization existed as such previous to that date. The society has now ceased to exist, but the church building still stands on what is known as the Bill Decker farm.

The history of this subdivision of Delaware Count}- is a township dates back to June 5, 1820. when, on petition of the citizens within its boundaries, it was created by act of the County Commissioners' Court, deriving its name from that of an early United States Government surveyor. It was originally a part of the Virginia Military Lands, and when first constituted included a part of what is now Prospect Township, in Marion County, which was set off by act of Legislature when Morrow- County was organized, February 24, 1848. Scioto River forms the eastern boundary line of the township, in which it is fed by two streams from the west ; Taway Run and Fulton's Creek, both of which take their rise in Union County. The first named takes its name from the Taway Tribe of Indians of the Wyandot Nation, which in early years inhabited its banks. Fulton's Creek was named after a famous hunter of the pioneer days, whose mysterious disappearance and probable violent death was mourned by the settlers, among whom he was very popular, and they united in paying him this tribute.

The first white settler of Thompson Township was Thomas Weaver, who came from Virginia. Leaving his native State in 1808, he arrived at Chillicothe, Ohio, and there falling in with a surveyor who gave glowing accounts of the country in this section, made his way hither in the spring of 1809. He located land on the banks of the Scioto and immediately set abont erecting a cabin and clearing his land. He was followed shortly by Michael Dilsaver, who located in the southeastern part of the township, and from him Dilsaver s Corners and Dilsaver' s Ford took their names. There was then a lapse of 'i number of years before the coming of the next settlers. James Cochran arrived from Pennsylvania in 181 7, and settled on Fulton's Creek, where in 1827 he erected the first gristmill of the township. In 1818 John Swartz and four sons came from Pennsylvania and were the first settlers at what aiterward became known as Pickrell's Mills. The same year witnessed the arrival of Simeon Lindsley and John Hurd, who came from Vermont and settled along the river to the south of John Swartz's cabin. Roswell Fields, a Canadian by birth and a most desirable citizen, arrived at about the same time and built a cabin near Dilsaver's Ford. He had the distinction of building the first frame house in the township and was the first justice of the peace after the organization of Thompson Township. Next came Samuel Broderick and Joseph Russell, the latter arriving late in 1819, from Connecticut; he pushed his way up the Scioto, three miles above Pickrell's. Mills, where he purchased 318 acres of land and built a cabin. All these pioneers were located along the river bank, the interior development being exceedingly backward. It was not until after 1828 that settlers came in any great numbers, and even then the inclination was to locate close to the river.

As before mentioned the first mill was that of Cochran, built in 1827, on Fulton Creek, about a half mile distant from the Scioto. This was followed in 1830 by a saw-mill, erected by Jacob Swartz a short distance below his cabin on the west bank of the Scioto. Roswell Fields soon after acquired the old Cochran grist-mill, which he enlarged and rebuilt, and also erected a saw-mill, both of which were in operation many years. In 1844 J. \V. Cone built a woolen mill which thrived and was in constant operation for thirty years. It was the first mill operated by the power of steam, this modern innovation transpiring in 1868. Sparks from the engine set fire to the plant in 1874. and resulted in its destruction. It was not rebuilt by Mr. Cone, but in 1877 Mr. H. P. Pickrell erected a large modern grist-mill on that site, and it was from him the settlement thereabouts derived its name. Clark Decker, in 1863, erected a small saw-mill in the extreme northeastern part of the township. This was the extent of the early day industrial enterprises of Thompson Township, which has never had what may be termed a village within its limits. Pickrell's Mills, known in early days, successively, as Eagletown and Cone's Mills, was the nearest approach to urban classification, but at best it had but a postoffice, one store and a few homes surrounding the mills. It succeeded Patterson Post Office as a postal station, the latter being a title which lent dignity to an old frame house on the Military Road, north of Fulton Creek, for several years.

The mill now owned and operated by Bruce Charles and generally known as the Simon Charles Mill, was built in 1834 by Roswell Fields, the millwright being Henry Waits, a well known local character in those days, being somewhat unbalanced in mind. By Mr. Fields it passed into the possession of his son, Samuel Fields, who sold it to Simon Charles, from whom, on the latter's death, it passed into the hands of his son Bruce, who has greatly improved the property, fitting it up with modern machinery. Mr. Charles also runs a powerful hydraulic cider-press.

Susanna Cochran, born in 1817, was the first native white child of the township, and the death of Michael Dilsaver was the first death recorded. The marriage of William Travers and Catherine Swartz in 1822 was the first marriage, and with the dance and feast which followed was an occasion long to be remembered by the settlers who had congregated from many miles around. James Crawford taught the first school in the cabin on Fulton Creek. The first brick house was erected by a man named Hoskins, and Thomas Lavender, the first brick mason and the first to burn a kiln of brick, also erected one of the first brick buildings. Dr. Mathlaj Gcrehard was the first practicing physician resident in Thompson. The earliest store was that conducted by Joseph Cox in a house near the Mills. John Detwiler, pioneer tavern keeper, was also a dealer in liquors. It was not until 1869 that a bridge was erected in the township, this being a wooden structure across the Scioto, joining Thompson and Radnor. In 1875 a small covered bridge was constructed across Fulton's Creek. Prior to this time it was necessary for the settlers to lord the stream, the most favorable spot being at what was known as Broad Ford, on the southern boundary line. Jacob Swartz had a large flat boat and a canoe which he used in transporting people across the river, farther up stream.

Thompson Township has the following officials for the year 1908: T. A. Fryman and A. A. Maize, justices of the peace; John Howison and P. H. Perry, trustees; George E. Avers, clerk ; E. M. Decker, treasurer ; J. G. Hill, assessor; Jacob Dilsaver and Fred Kirk, constables; John Davis, ditch supervisor.