Twin Township

Twin Township

Twin Township was erected in July, 1817, from Greenville Township, which then comprised the whole territory within the limits of Darke County, consequently Twin was the second civil division of land made. Its limits embraced all that part of the county south of a line running due east from the northeast corner of Section 31. Town 11 north. Range 1 east.

The area of the township has been reduced b}' the successive formation of other townships till it now lacks one tier of sections on the east, of including all of Town S north. Range 3 east. Its name was taken from Twin Creek. It contains no considerable streams. Miller's Fork rises in the northwestern part, and flows in a southerly course, passing out of the township from Section 33. This stream throughout its course Mows with a rapid current, and with its many tributaries affords an excellent system of drainage for the surrounding country. Painter ('reck Hows eastward across the north part of the town on into the Stillwater. Several creeks which flow into Ludlow's Creek head in the eastern part and afford drainage thereto.

The eastern half and north part of Twin Township have a Hat surface, originally swamp lands. The rest of the land has a more elevated and rolling surface. The soil is rich, black and very productive. Corn, wheat, oats, flax and barley are successfully and profitably grown, and the cultivation of tobacco is gradually assuming greater proportions as acreage annually increases, the strong soil being well adapted to sustain its rank growth. There is scarcely any waste land. Most farms are well improved, and the general appearance of the country suggests thrift and enterprise. Twin was early settled. .Miller's Fork, with swift water and high land, attracted the settlers' eyes, and Wayne's trail from Lewisburg to Fort Jefferson and Greenville ran along the banks of flu- stream. Here the pioneer was monarch, untrammeled by society restraints, and free to wage war with the kingly trees of the forest. The pioneer of Twin Township was Jacob North. The date of his arrival is conjectured to have been previous to or during the war of 1812. He moved from the Lewisburg settlement and built his domicile on the creek bank, near the present location of the township cemetery. His sojourn was but transient. The passions of the \v(\ men were aroused, and depredations upon his little property became frequent. North was several times admonished to leave the locality, but he apprehended no danger and still remained. At length. Stoner and Elliott fell victims to the tomahawk and scalping knife, and the pioneer was marked as a victim. One day. a half-breed quietly stepped into into his cabin and informed him that for the safety of himself and family he had better return to the settlement at once. Acting upon this advice. Mr. North and his wife gathered up their few movables and went back to his old home. Shortly following his departure, a party of Indians surrounded his cabin and burned it to the ground, and it was probably well for the owner that a friend had given him warning. Thus terminated the first attempt at a residence in the land of Twin Township.

On Christmas Day, 1800, a company of emigrants began a long and toilsome journey from North Cai'olina westward, across the Ohio River, and northward, into the Indian country. Accounts of the fair, fertile valleys of the Miamis had reached their homes and incited them to go forward to settle upon the banks of the Upper Miami. These emigrants located north of Dayton, in the fertile valley of the Stillwater. From the ranks of this colony, about 1816, came the first permanent settlers of our township. The van was led by Richard Robbins, born in Randolph County, N. C, where he celebrated his marriage previous to his removal to the Stillwater. He became a resident of Twin Township in 1815, having settled on land just west of the present site of Ithaca. From this dates the actual settlement of the township. The war had closed, but the Indians remained, and white and red men regarded each other with distrust. Both went armed. One day, while Robbins was feeding some pigs which were confined in a small pen to protect them from the wolves, the sharp report of a flint-lock rifle was heard, and the settler saw an Indian neighbor withdrawing his body behind a tree hard by. He charged the attempt to shoot him upon the Indian, who earnestly denied any such intention. Robbins would not be convinced. He always maintained that the shot was fired with a view of getting possession of a fine rifle much coveted by the Indians. The settler was carried off by an attack of the measles, in 1824. David Lucas, from the same company of immigrants, followed Robbins in 1816, and located just south of Ithaca on land owned by Champe McGoff. In the same spring, two brothers, William and Eli Curtner, entered land and began a clearing further up Miller's Fork, on land now owned by Mr. Albright. These men located here in March, and in May following, a son, named William, was born to Eli Curtner, and this was the first white child born in the township.

The fall of 1816 brought in a few more settlers from the Stillwater. Land was cheap and good, and attracted many intent upon securing themselves homes. One after another settled along the creek and began his labor, encouraged by the older settlers, former neighbors. In the fall, came Philip Shank, his father, Frederick, and their families, and entered the land now owned by George Corwin. Again the season went round, and again there came an influx of ininiigrants. David Shearer and James McDole settled on the Colville farm, just west of Ithaca. The Shanks were natives of Virginia ; and of the earliest settlers on the Stillwater, Philip Rutter, of Virginia, and Daniel Baumgardner, of North Carolina, located on Section 16, school land ; three brothers. Isaac, Thomas and George Walker, primarily from Rhode Island, and later from Virginia and Tennessee, from which State they early made their way to Stillwater Valley, whence they moved to this township, locating on land owned by Troxel & Trump. Frazee Doty came in the spring of 1817, and settled just west of Ithaca, on land now owned by Matthew Guy. Mr. Dot}' was one of Twin's prominent townsmen, and officiated as a local minister. A few years ago, he removed to Missouri, where, a short time ago, he was found by the roadside dead, as was the horse which he had been driving. The cause of the accident was unknown. Mrs. Doty, his widow. Mrs. Shank, wife of Philip Shank, and Mrs. Curtner, wife of William Curtner, are the only surviving persons of the original first settlers. During the fall of 1817, quite an addition was made to the settlement from Stillwater. Andrew Burkett was one who came at this time. For several years, immigration was slow, but constant. We are not able to trace in order the arrival of settlers ; however, we may recall Michael Bickett, Emery Rogers and William Lemon, who was the first Justice of the Peace and Captain of the militia company of the neighborhood. For many years, the east and northeast parts of the township remained somewhat unsettled, owing to the swampy condition of the surface, but, in time, these lands were entered, drainage was resorted to, and. as elsewhere, they have become by far the choice farming lands of the country.

The early settlers have nearly all been called from their toils and privations to final rest. Peace be to their memories, green grow the grass over their gravis. May the present generation preserve inviolate, and carry to perfection, the sacred heritage bequeathed by them. In this as in nearly all newly settled countries, the industries dependent upon trade were slow of development. Pioneer wants were proportionate to their abilities to satisfy them. Milling was done at the Stillwater and Big Twin, at the Lewisburg settlement, for many years. The first mill - and this appellation is scarcely applicable to it - was erected upon a branch in Section 32, by John Osbrook. This was the old-fashioned corn cracker, and cracked corn then constituted one of the staple articles of food. The daily capacity was limited to a few bushels, and the mill ran but a short period of the year. The first saw-mill built was on Miller's Creek, near Ithaca, by the enterprising John Colville. This man was an early settler, and by energy and enterprise did much for his neighbors and for the township. This mill, like the preceding, was imperfect and rude, but answered its purpose and well fulfilled its work. As the country increased and the wants of the townsmen demanded more pretentious manufactures, these were supplied by remodeling the old mills or by building others. The water-power of the country was defective and difficult of being utilized. Steam power had to be introduced. The first steam grist-mill was erected in Ithaca, by Caswell Sharp. This marked an epoch in the milling line of this section of country. The mill is still in use, being owned and operated by Watson West, and doing good work. In order to preserve the health and spirits of the community, a copper still was erected in the southern part of the township by Daniel Phillips. It was probably the only one ever operated in Twin Township. How long this "venomous worm-' was operated, or what was its capacity, it is not known, but it was inefficient to meet the local demand. If ever intemperance reigned and ruined in after-times in the history of the township, but little harm can be charged to this still. There are now in the township three grist-mills of good capacity and four saw-mills, three of which are circular, with large capacity. These, with several manufactories in Arcanum to be mentioned hereafter, now mark the improvement which the industry and enterprise of a half century have wrought in the township. Almost as soon as the settler had provided a shelter for himself and family, he took counsel with his neighbor for the erection of a place for public worship. From house to house the preacher traveled until increased numbers permitted a house, and as time wore on this was kept in repair, until increased wealth enabled the worshipers to erect churches in cost and character in accord with the times.

The first ones to bear the glad tidings of salvation to the settlers of Twin Township were Abraham Sneethan and Levi Purviance, of the Christian society. Who came first is not known, and a third name, that of John Williams, is given as a cotemporary with them. This trio were early engaged in the work of disseminating (lospel truths. The first church built in the township was by the Christians, on land now owned by W. H. Tillman. At a later period, they erected another church, just one mile south of Arcanum. Both of these have gone down years ago, and now the denomination which was seen to have planted the first germs of practical religion in Twin Township has no organization within its boundaries. The United Brethren in Christ had the next regular organization. They built their first church in Ithaca, where the present one now stands, which building was the second of the kind raised in the township, nearly fifty years ago. The church interest is strong and healthy at both Ithaca and Arcanum.

The Methodists, progressing with the van of civilization, were here, as elsewhere, early promulgators of the Scriptures in Twin Township. The first organization was effected at Ithaca, in 1840, with forty-two members, and two years subsequently, their present house of worship was erected, the first in the township. They now have three societies - one at Ithaca, one at Gordon, and the third at Arcanum. Four other organizations, two of them Lutherans, one German Reformed and one Baptist, complete the list of the religious associations in Twin Township.

There are two cemeteries in the township ; these cities of the dead are both located at Ithaca. One is under the control of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and the other belongs to the township, and takes its origin from the date of the first settlement therein. Here was buried Jacob Baumgardner. who died in the spring of 1817, and was the first burial in the township.

Twin has its full proportion of villages, thei'e being three regularly laid out villages within its limits. The oldest in point of survey is Ithaca, which was platted by John Colville, in 1832. This served as the trading center for a circumference of many miles and for a number of years. Joseph Evans established the first dry-goods store in the place. It was kept by " Jacky " North, previously mentioned. The first tavern, or at least place where the public were invited to " bed and board," was kept by Eli Shearer, upon the site occupied by the present hotel. The village now contains one dry-goods store, one grocery, one clothing' store, two blacksmith-shops, one hotel, and among shops, a shoe, a meat, a harness. a cabinet and an undertaker's. There is a single physician onl}r in the place.

Here are the headquarters of Ithaca Lodge, F. & A. M., No. 295, whose charter was granted July 17, 1857. At this time the members were William H. Matchett, Daniel Ridenour, William Colville, S. C. Engle, Martin J. Colville, Milton McNeal, J. H. Engle, Caswell Sharp, Clark Baker and Elijah Heath.

The first Master was William H. Matchett ; the first Senior Warden, Clark Baker ; the first Junior Warden, Martin Colville. The lodge has a present membership of sixty-three, and is in a flourishing condition. They have a large threestory building, whose uppermost room is large, spacious, well furnished and in use as a lodge-room.

The next place laid out was Arcanum, in 1849, by Gunder. As growth continued, additions were successively made by land-owners, on all sides. Of these were additions to the north and west by Ivester; Allread & Houck, on the south, and by Falkner, on the northeast. On June 20, 1851, the first store in the place was begun, by Messrs. Samuel and John Smith, and in the year following, the railroad came through from Dayton. The building of this road, which extended diagonally across the township, from north to south, marked an epoch in the history of township and village. It put an end to the necessity of the previous long, tedious and expensive journey, through swamps and over corduroy roads, to Dayton, with produce. It brought a good market to the township, and, to the extreme surprise of many, " increased the price of horses." The M. E. Church was built in 1856, and the people came here instead of to the old log church on Painter's Creek. The United Brethren was put up in 1872 or 1873, and they were no longer dependent upon the old schoolhouse, and the Reformed Church perfected an organization in 1879.

On June 20, 1851, the Messrs. Smith, as stated, engaged here in merchandise and trade, and to their energy Arcanum, now a village of 1 ,000 people, largely owes its present prosperity. It contains four dry-goods houses, seven groceries, two drugstores, two hardware, four harness, three carriage, four blacksmiths, three meat, three shoe, two milliner, three dress making and two barber shops. There are two livery stables, a hotel, a printing office, two bakerys, four grain warehouses, one lumber yard, two flouring-mills, a saw-mill, a planing-mill and a sash and door factory. A synopsis this of the interests of a live, thriving place. Among professional men, there are four physicians and one dentist. A schoolhouse has eight rooms and four teachers employed therein. Taken in business, religious, educational or other views of the village, it is seen to be aspiring and enterprising, manifesting a spirit valuable to the community and securing prosperity to themselves.

The presence of such places in a township serve as a stimulus to trade and agriculture, enhancing real estate values and inciting to cultivation.

SIMPSON ALBRIGHT, retired tanner ; P. O. Arcanum. Another of the old settlers of Darke Co. He was born in Anderson Co. East Tenn.. in 1804 and is a son of Philip and Christena Albright, natives of North Carolina. He removed with his parents to Preble Co., Ohio, in the year 1814. In 1820, he returned to rennessee, and remained till 1826, when he came back and permanently located in Darke Co., in Twin Township, in 1834. He was united in marriage with Mis* Mary, daughter of Henry and Mary Snoderly. natives of North Carolina, Nov. 9, 1828. Twelve children have been given to this union, viz., Johnson K Henry M Henderson L., Daniel S., Philip S., William K, Adam C, Catherine S., Sarah Elizabeth, Mary and Martha M., the latter dying in infancy. Henry departed this life in August, 1878, aged 48 years, leaving a wife and five children* to mourn his loss He was a member of the United Brethren Church in Christ, and died as he had lived, relying absolutely on the promises of his Savior. Mr. and Mrs. Albright had seven sons in the army at one time, and he informs us he offered his services to his country if they would supply him with teeth with which to bite the cartridge ; they all returned to their homes uninjured except Philip, who received two flesh-wounds ; while these patriotic boys were in the front, suffering the dangers and privations of cruel and devastating war, their heroic and patriotic mother took the implements of labor in her own hands, and, with a determination and resolution that is the offspring of patriotism, entered the field, and, with her own hands, cultivated 16 acres of corn, and doing other labor of great fatigue. Mr. and Mrs. Albright have been members of the church for fifty years, and are greatly interested in religion, and in their declining years it affords them great satisfaction that they have not labored in vain, their children being co-workers with them in achieving righteousness. His son William has been a minister of the Gospel for eight

JACOB BISH, grocer and tobacco dealer, Arcanum ; born in Carroll Co.. Md., Nov. 19, 1823, where he remained until about 1839, after which, during life, he learned three trades, viz.: tanner, carpenter and machinist ; in his youthful days received no education ; after his maturity, voted to introduce the public school svstem and donated the land for the first schoolhouse in his township ; on April 24 1845, he united in marriage with Mary Jones, and by this union have one child ; they remained at the place of his nativity until 1855, when they emigrated to Pavton, Ohio, where he soon found employment in a machine-shop and was engaged in various pursuits until 1866, at which time he bought a farm, for $6,000. near West Sonora. Preble Co., Ohio, and moved on it ; he soon after sold it, and in 1872 came to Darke Co. and bought a farm near Arcanum, what was then known as the Coons farm, which he afterward laid out in town lots and sold ; in 1874, moved to Arcanum, located on lot No. 56, where he engaged in his present business, and since 1878 his entire attention has been turned to the tobacco trade forW. S. O'Neal; of Dayton, Ohio, and since a resident of Arcanum, has held the offices of Town Marshal, Town Councilman and Pike Superintendent of Twin Township ; our subject is a man who has, during his whole life, done a great deal of traveling, thereby having viewed the scenes of the Alleghany Mountains a number of times and served four months in the late rebellion ; when Mr. B. commenced in life, he^ had an amount of property so small that his tax receipts have increased from 25 cents to $75

HENRY C. BRISTLY, carpenter ; P. 0. Arcanum. The subject of this sketch is the son of Charles Bristly, a native of Germany, and Elizabeth Olivine, of Pennsylvania ; was born in Pennsylvania Sept. 7, 1826 ; his parents removed to Montgomery Co. in 1853. where his father died in 1857, aged 76 years. After a residence in this county of one year subsequent to the death of his father, his mother took up her abode with her son (Henry O), where she remained till her death, Jan. 9, 1873, aged 77 years and 6 months. At the age of 21, Mr. Bristly left the old roof that had sheltered him all these years, and began life for himself by learning the carpenter's trade, which he has closely followed up to this time. He was united in marriage with Miss Delila, daughter of Jacob Baker, Esq., a resident of Montgomery Co., Ohio, Oct. 18. 1855 ; eight children have been born, to wit : Elizabeth, Susanna, Mary, Levi, Sarah, Samuel, and two died in infancy. On the 2d of March, 1857, Mr. B. located on the land where he now lives, which at that time was covered by timber ; by hard work, energy and industry, he has made great changes, and to-day has a fine residence, first-class farm buildings, and a farm in a high state of cultivation. Mr. Bristly has been School Director for^ years, and is at this time filling the office of Township Trustee. Is a member of the Lutheran Church. .

ISAAC BURKE, deceased. The subject of this sketch was born in lennessee Nov. 25, 1823 ; his parents removed to Preble Co., Ohio, in 1827, when he was but 4 years old. he continued to reside with his parents and assisted in the labors of the farm till 1846. He was then united in marriage with Sarah Wright, Oct. 27 of the same year ; he then began life for himself, with no means except his own willing hands and resolute will, and, being nobly assisted by his amiable and energetic wife, they overcame the difficulties so common to early pioooer life and succeeded in making a comfortable home, where his widowed wife still remains, assisted by her children in carrying on the farm. Mr. Burke's death occurred Oct. 7. 1867, in his 44th year, leaving many friends and a nienHny that will long be cherished by his lonely wife and fatherless children. Mr. Burke was an active member of the Methodist Church, and died trusting in the promises of his Savior. Ten children were given to this union, viz.: William A., born March 31, 1848 ; Mary E., born June 28, 1849 ; John M., born April 15, 1851 ; Ruth A.. born March 24, 1853 ; Richard H., born June 3, 1855 ; Irene, born June 16, 1857. Manervia A., born May 11, 1858 ; Calvin J., born July 18, 1859 ; Jesse D., born Nov. 21, 1861 ; Amanda A., bora Feb. 12, 18G3. Manervia died June 27, 1857 ; Irene died June 27, 1877 ; Jesse died Feb. 23, 1862. Mrs. Burke has been sorely afflicted by the loss of her husband and children, but seems resigned to the loss, and lives in the hopes of being again united.

JOHN D. CLARK, of the firm of Kraus & Clark. Arcanum. To the subject of this sketch we are pleased to accord a place in the advance lines of the early pioneers of Darke County ; he was born in Butler Co., Ohio, Aug. 12, 1814, and is a son of Barzilla and Mary (Davis) Clark ; his father was born in Virginia Oct. 3, 1788, and died in Darke Co. in March, 1874, and his remains are interred in the cemetery at Ithaca ; his mother was born in Maryland Sept. 1, 1780, and died Aug. 13, 1871, and lies beside her husband in Ithaca Cemetery ; the}' settled in Twin Township in 1848, one mile southwest of Ithaca. Mr. Clark, Sr., was a volunteer in the war of 1812, and was in the army that was surrendered bj" Hull, and was on the pension rolls of the old veterans of that war. The subject of this sketch has been a continuous resident of Darke Co. since 1840 ; he had purchased 255 acres of land in its wild state, and, by his untiring industry and determination, in which he has been most nobly assisted by his industrious and amiable wife, succeeded in removing all the obstructions and thoroughly fitted it for the implements of agriculture ; he still owns the same tract of land, with an additional 40 acres that he has cleared, improved and spent the greater part of his life upon ; in 1872, he came to Arcanum and engaged in the drug business, which he followed for three years, then selling out to his son and embarked with Mr. Kraus in a general mercantile business, in which he is still engaged. He was united in marriage with Miss Sarah, daughter of John and Jane Bow}*er, Aug. 15, 1838, near Foster's Crossing, in Warren Co.; her parents were born in Pennsylvania in the latter part of the eighteenth century, and settled in Warren Co. in 1800, and were among the first settlers in that county ; both died in the county of their adoption, her father at the age of 76, and her mother at the age of 68 years. Mr. and Mrs. Clark are the parents of eight children, viz.: Mary J., born in Warren Dec. 29, 1839 ; Sarepta, born in Darke Co., June 21, 1842 ; Nancy, July 3. 1845 ; John W., Sept. 15, 1848 ; Bowyer, July 12, 1852 ; Sarah E., July 6, 1856 ; Laura J., April 5. 1859, and one dying in infancy April 20, 1851. Mr. and Mrs. < 'lark have been members of the M. E. Church for upward of forty years, ami have faithfully performed the duties incident to a fervent Christian life. Mr. Clark is a Prohibitionist and a good worker in the temperance cause. Mr. Clark. assisted by Mr. Ivester, whose sketch appears in this work, was the first to agitate the question of free pikes, and under his supervision three miles were constructed in the fall of L867.

MICHAEL ("LINE, cooper. Arcanum ; was born Jan. 20, 1811, in Hampshire County, Va., where he remained until March, 1836, when he came to Montgomery County. Ohio, and commenced coopering, which occupation he has followed through life. dan. 1-4, 1844, he was united in marriage with Martha A. Miller, and by this union they have five children, viz., Mollie E., Henry M.. Charles ('., Edward A. and William; .Mollie has been a teacher of the public school for a number of years. Mr. (Mine came to Arcanum, Darke Co., in 1866, where he has since resided, and since then has filled the office of Township Trustee five successive terms. Town Councilman one term. The sum of the ages of our subject, father nrvRr>n>>r q PLOYD farmer Sec. 20 ; P. 0. Arcanum. ^TcOoX-SLanum.. The subject of thi* sk jtohwborn in Fairfield Co., Ohio, Sept. 17, 1839, and is a son of William W. and Elizabeth J^oElSwtato of Fairfield Co. but now residents of Arcanum ; Mr. Coons only S ^advantages of a common-school education, as he assisted his fa her in the dtL^flrS ; but by hard labor, which -mbined bo^ene^and mdu^y he succeeded in acquiring a good average education ; he "P^J^^^S nlar* to Arcanum in the fall of 1867 and engaged m manufactming and handling funeral stoT'f boots and shoes, which business he followed for two years, when heDclos"d out his stock and purchased a farm of 60 acres in winTc^b^W he carried on for two years, when he disposed of this property, m 1871, and pui ^Lsed 120 aefes in Butler Township of Levi Slechty for $54 sold at the expiration of six months, realizing a fair profit ; n 1872, he opened a sSre of -4^1 merchandise in Arcanum, where he still continues to do business , he has large double salerooms, with storerooms back, and carries a complete and p'fSock of clothing, dry goods, hats, caps, boots, fact everything found in a first-class retail business house. He celebrated Ins max Se wit h Miss Almira, daughter of Benjamin and Susan Fount a Maj o 1 86 ^parents being old residents of Darke County Mrs. (Founts) Coons was boin in March, 1840 ; six children have been given to this union viz.. Flo ".Join Nov. 22 1862; Elizabeth S, born Nov. 9, 1865 ; Luanna bom April 27 1868 Leroj W bom August 23, 1871 ; Harry P., born Dec. 9, 1874 ; Cleo W, born Aug 25 187c S In MaJch, 1879, the death messenger entered this quiet and happy h tie familv and. removed two of its members from earth to heaven ; little Harry on the S^rMaXand his baby brother Cleo on the I8tb , foUowmg. Mr to father William W., was born in Harrison Co., West Va Sept. 9 18Ub, and rfmovedwEn infancy, with his parents, to Ross Co., Ohio ; here he attended school ami assisted his father in the labors on the farm during vacations ; Mr. X'Ser of the subject of this sketch, was united in marnag. , wdb Miss Elizabeth daughter of William and Sarah Schooley, Sept. 20 1826 who weie oia SSSTofSS- Co., Ohio ; they are the parents of ten ^ ^rP living viz Marv A., now Mrs. Robinson, who resides m Pieble Co.. umo , Z'SenrfCamden, Ohio ; Philip, the subject of this sketch ; Ellen now Mrs FoM who lives in Arcanum ; Salem S, residing in Butler Co, Ohio ; John who also lives in Camden ; Samuel, a minister of the U. resides in Lewisburg, Ohio; the deceased are Sallie, Mrs. Giffoid , Lena, Mrs. Francis ami one dying in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Coons Sr., have been members of the U B Church 'in Christ for forty-six years, and Mr. Coons has labored ni the Ministry for forty-three years, and, although his frame is bent with the weight of years, his mind is still vigorous and his memory unimpaired

PHILEMON CROMWELL, retired farmer, Sec. 19 ; P. O Ithaca, lne sud iect of Tl is keteh is entitled to aplace in the advance lines of the early pioneers of Darke Co he was born March 23, 1803, and is a son of Philemon and Mary CnrnweU.' natives of Maryland, both dying in their native Sta te-his father -* the iSTSt and his mother at the advanced age of 92 years ; he removed to Ohio and settlecU Darke Co. in March, 1838, and purchased 156 acres of land in its w d state a cl ly his energy and unflinching wiU, combined with the assistance ^ered byln ii hi trious and amiable wife, overcame all the obstacles incident to SonterlSfe and they have as a reward of their toil and privations, a beaut to Lome surroimded by every comfort and convenience, in which to enjoy then Sin" 4ar ffis marriage with Miss Rebecca, daughter ot Henry and SSC was celebrated March 12, 1835 nine children have bee u given to this union, viz, William W., born Feb. 21, 1836 ; Catherine V Nov. 14. 1840 , Henry H.. Sept. 4, 1843; Josiah 0, Nov. 14, 1845; Sarah J., Nov. », 184< ,

Philemon, Feb. 14, 1850 ; John W., Nov. 30, 1852 ; Alverdo, Dec. 13, 1857 . Catherine, wife of Francis Huffen, died Feb. 22, 1874 ; Henry H. was a member of Co. D, 110th O. V. I., and at his country's call went nobly forth in defense of his country, and to help save the honor of his flag ; on the 5th of May, the first day of the great and ever-memorable and disastrous battle of the Wilderness in Virginia, he fell, pierced by the enemy's bullets, while charging on a rebel stronghold, and. like many of his brave comrades in arms, his body lay for days between the contending lines of vast armies, amid the clash and turmoil of incessant battle, and to-day his remains are peacefully at rest on the ground where he fought to win. Mr. and Mrs. Cromwell have been members of the United Brethren Church for forty years, and their large family of children are co-workers with their parents in the cause and advancement of the Christian religion.

JOHN FASIG-, merchant tailor and Justice of the Peace, Ithaca ; the subject of this sketch was born in Sprendlingen, Grossherzogthum, Darmstadt. Germany, March 14, 1831 ; he is a son of John and Susan Fasig. Mr. Fasig emigrated to America in 1855. landing in New York in October, and made his way to Euphemia, Preble Co., Ohio, where he engaged in tailoring for upward of one year, when he removed to Ithaca and engaged in the same business which he is still engaged in. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth, daughter of Franz and Doratha Croell, May 28, 1854 ; twelve children have been given to this union, viz.: Luzetta, born April 27, 185G, died April 13, 1860 ; John, born Sept. !'. 1857, died Sept. 12, 1859 ; Mary, born Feb. 18, 1859, died March 25, 1801 ; Minnie L., born Aug. 15, I860 ; Margaret L., born Sept. 5, 1861, died Oct. 3, 1862 ; Eliza, born Oct. 27, 1862 ; Catherine, born June 4, 1864 ; Charles A., born Oct. 31, 1866 ; Amanda S., born Aug. 23, 1868 ; Sarah J., born April 28, 1870. died April 29, 1872 ; William H., born March 22, 1873 ; Leah C. born Jan. 20, 1876. Truly, Mr. and Mrs. Fasig have a large and very interesting family ; their charming daughters, with their various accomplishments, tend to make home a pleasant place. Mr. Fasig carries a fine stock of custom-made clothing, dry goods, notions, tobaccos and cigars, and if you want a perfect-fitting suit of clothes. give him a call. Politically, he is Democratic, and has been prominently identified in all the township offices, and has alwa3's carried the unanimous support of his constituents, which is ample proof of his official business capacity. Mrs. Fasig was born June 24, 1834, in Phaffenshabenneim, Germany ; she had two 1 uothers and eight sisters ; four came to this country, and two have since died ; her elder brother was killed in the Mexican war.

A. M. FLORY, of the firm of Wallace & Flory, dealers in hardware and agricultural implements, Arcanum. The subject of this sketch was born May 12, 1851, and is a son of Henry and Catherine Flory, old residents of Montgomery Co.. Ohio; his father followed coopering the greater part of his life, and was engaged in farming a short time previous to his death ; his father dying when he was but 10 years of age, he went out into the world to take care of himself and battle with life, and, by energy and persevering industry, has overcome all obstacles. and so far has made life a success ; at the age of 16 years, he learned the carpenter trade, which he followed till he removed to Arcanum, the last day of December. 1873, and on the 1st day of March, 1874, he opened a general hardware store, in partnership with Mr. Wallace, in which business they are still engaged ; he w:iunited in marriage with Miss Catherine E., daughter of Henry Burns. March 19. 1S74. her parents being residents of Preble County ; Mr. Flory has been identified with the offices of his village, having been a member of the City Council, and has had the honor of Mayor conferred upon him by his fellow towns men.

MICHAEL FLORY, farmer: P. (). Cordon : the subject of this sketch was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, Dee. 22, 1811, being a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Florj- ; he resided in the county of his nativity till 1861, when he removed to Darke County, and settled on Sec. 26 of Twin Township, where he now resides. He was united in marriage with Hannah Wagerman in 1853, and by this

"anion they have had three children, of whom two are living, viz., John W., Elizabeth, and Joseph, deceased ; his farm is all in a good state of cultivation and has good improvements erected thereon.

JOHN C. HAMILTON, physician and surgeon ; Ithaca ; the subject of this memoir was born in Monroe County, Ohio, in 1852, and is a son of Jacob and Maria Hamilton, old residents of Monroe County ; he received a good common-school education, and afterward entered the Mt. Union College in Stark County, where he prosecuted his studies with great energy for two years ; he then read medicine, under the instructions of a very prominent physician of Louisville, Ohio, and afterward attended the full course of lectures at the Cincinnati Medical Institute, and finished his entire course of stud}', after much hard labor, in 1875, having gained his M. D., the goal of his ambition, and commenced the practice of medicine in Ithaca ; he is a successful practitioner and a gentleman of ability and refinement. He was united in marriage with Miss Allie Dresher, of Cincinnati, Jan. 27, 1879.

DAVID A. HARSH, merchant, Arcanum. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Preble Co., Ohio, Dec. 25, 1838. His boyhood days were spent on his father's farm till his 16th year, at which time he began his struggle in life alone and unaided, save by his indomitable will and energy. He was engaged in Indiana as teamster for about eight months, then abandoned the business and engaged in carpentering, which he followed for five years. In the beginning of the war, he volunteered in the 11th 0. V. I., and served four months, when he was honorably discharged from the service. In 1861, he engaged in storekeeping in Hill Grove, Darke Co., but, on account of failing health, he was obliged to relinquish his business and seek the out-door employment of the farm, and for two years carried on a farm in Preble Co. ; thence he went to Lewisburg, where he remained for six years ; thence to Arcanum, and followed butchering for two years ; he then followed various pursuits till July 4, 1877, when he again engaged in the mercantile business, and, by judicious management, has built up a good trade, receiving his full share of the public patronage. He married Susanna Studebaker, daughter of D. and Elizabeth Studebaker, of Darke Co. Mr. and Mrs. Harsh are members of the Reformed Church and are zealous workers in the cause of religion. He is a member of the Libanius Lodge, No. 80, is in good standing, and his motto is onward and upward in the order.

FRANCIS M. HUFFER, farmer ; P. 0. Ithaca. Born in Greene Co., Ohio, June 29, 1837, and, in 1839, he, with his parents, came to Darke Co., where he remained at home until 1858. At that time, he united in marriage with Catherine V. Cromwell, and by this union they have three sons and two daughters ; in the year 1874, Mrs. Hurler departed this life. During life she was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Hurler has since united in marriage with Louisa Reidenhour, and they are living on his farm, in Sec. 28, Twin Township ; he has one among the best stock and grain farms in the township, beautifully located north of Ithaca, with a good gravel l'oad on the east and west, and several good fountains on the east side of it, the land being worth probably $100 per acre.

GEORGE IVESTER, farmer and miller, Sec. 4 ; P. O. Arcanum. The subject of this memoir was born in Chester Co., Penn., Aug. 10, 1821 ; he only had the advantage of a common-school education, such as the country afforded upwards of fifty years ago, and when out of school assisted his father in a nail factor}' ; at the age of 13 years, he commenced his career in the world alone and unaided, save his own willing hands, and inflexible will ; in 1834, he removed to Miami Co., Ohio, where he worked on a farm for three years, and then entered a blacksmith-shop and soon became a proficient in his trade, which he prosecuted for twenty years ; in the spring of 1849, he was seized with the gold fever that raged so at that time, and made an overland trip to the Pacific Coast, which occupied 130 days ; in the fall of 1854, he settled in Dai'ke Co., in Twin Township, where he purchased 148 acres of land where, he now lives, all of which is in a high state of cultivation ; in the summer of 1^7"). he erected a large and magnificent dwelling in the pleasant little village of Arcanum, and its pleasant grounds and beautiful surroundings make it the most desirable place in the village. He celebrated his marriage with Miss Rebecca, daughter of William and Catherine Davis, Feb. 24. 1851. Six children have been given to this union, viz.: Martha J., born Jan. 11, 1853 ; William EL, born Aug. 5, 1855 ; Emma J., born May 13, 1858 ; Olive V., born 2\pril 1 1. 1862 : Allie 0., born March 27, 1864 ; Mina B., born Dec. 23, 1868. The parents of Mr. lvester were residents of Chester Co., Penn.; his father was born in 1 784, and died at the age of 58 years, in the county of his nativity ; his mother was born in the latter part of the eighteenth century, and departed this life about 1839. Mr. lvester has had his full share of petty offices, and informs us that he has never been a political aspirant. Mrs. lvester was born in Logan Co. Jan. 18, 1825.

BENJAMIN C. JACKSON, farmer and teacher ; P. 0. Arcanum. Born in New .Jersey July 4, 1828 ; his parents being dead, he lived with his grandfather until 1845, when he entered the Mt. Retirement Seminary. Sussex Co., Vt, where he remained until 1848, then engaged in teaching till 1851. at which time he entered upon duty with the N.Y. & E.R.R Co. as telegraph, freight and ticket agent at Chester, Orange Co., N, Y., where he remained until 1856 ; he then engaged as book-keeper in a wholesale cigar and liquor store in New York City until 1857, and since has been principally engaged in teaching. In 1861, he united in marriage in Montgomery Co.. Ohio, with Mary A. Kimmel, and by this union has two children, viz.. Carrie Y. and George E. In 1872, he came to Darke Co. and bought the farm of 57 acres where he now lives, in Sec. 7, valued at $3,500.

HARRISON A. KEPNER, hardware and grocer, Arcanum. The subject of this sketch was born in Perry Co., Penn., May 14, 1836 ; he was the son of a family of eleven children, whose father, Jacob Kepner, was born in Juniata Co.. Penn", July 21, 1806, and whose mother, Catharine (Kanawell) Kepner, was born in Berks County, same State, Nov. 11, 1808. Having resided in his native county until the age of 21, he left the parental roof, and, wholly dependent upon his own resources and energy, began the struggle of life. Subsequently, he emigrated to Allen Co.. Ohio, where he remained about one year, then finally settled in Darke Co. in the spring of 1858 ; on the 4th day of September in the following year, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of George and Lydia Brumbaugh, who were then old residents of the county ; the fruits of this marriage were four children, three of whom are now living, viz.: Clara C, born in 1862 ; Harry V., born in 1867. and Bertha N., born in 1877. Mr. Kepner's political sympathies are with the Democratic party, and his influence has been lent to the advancement of the principles which he advocates. The party has recognized and reciprocated by bestowing upon him various offices of trust and responsibility, which he has in every case most creditably filled, and by his genial manners and uprightness of character has won friends among all with whom he has been brought in contact.

J. H. KRAUS, of the firm of Kraus & (Mark. Arcanum. The subject of this sketch was born in Butler Co., Ohio, in 1840, and is a son of Benjamin and Nancy Kraus, both natives of Lancaster Co., Penn., and removed to New York State, in 1835. and to Butler Co.. in 1836, and to Montgomery Co.. Ohio, in 1846, where they still continue to reside ; they are the parents of two children, viz.: Amanda C.now Mrs. I). II. Wilson, who resides in Montgomery Co.. Ohio, and J. II.. the subject of this sketch; his grandparents were natives of Pennsylvania : his grandfather, Kraus. was horn in 1778,and died at the age of 82 years ; his grandmother, Kraus, was born in 1 780, and died at the agcof 84 years ; his grandparents on his mother's side were Jacob and Elizabeth (Keeler) Shell, also natives of Pennsylvania; Mr. Shell dying at the age of 77. and Mrs. Shell at the advanced age of 80 years. Mr. Kraus was engaged in the mercantile business for a period of five years, and removed to Arcanum in October. 1870, and engaged in the business he still continues to follow. I le was united in marriage with Miss C. E.. daughter of Jacob and

Nellie (Niswonger) Swank June 22, 1871, her parents being residents of Montgomery Co. ; two children have been given to this union, viz.: Harry B., born Aug. 10. 1876 - Waldo J., born April 2, 1879 ; he has, by his own exertions and studious habits, succeeded in making himself well versed in educational matters, and as a reward for his persevering industry and popular business ways, has made life a success, and is literally one of the self-made men of Darke Co.; though Mr. Kraus is no political aspirant, his fellow-townsmen have voted him a full share of local offices. Mrs. Kraus has been a lifelong member of the U. B. Church, and is a hard-working, consistent, Christian woman, and greatly interested in the emulation of the Christian religion.

THOMAS McCOWEN, farmer and stock-dealer ; P. 0. Arcanum ; was born in Darke Co., Ohio, Nov. 7, 1828, and is a son of John McCowen, a native of Bellbrook Ireland, who came to North America when but 3 years old, and was one of the patriots of 1812 ; came to Darke Co. in 1826, being one of the pioneers of this county, where he died in 1850. Our subject spent his boyhood days on a farm in summer, and in winter devoted his time to school, as much as time and convenience would admit, which at that time were limited. In 1850, he united in marriage with Sarah J. Mears, and by this union they have three children, viz.: Mary A., now Mrs. 0. B. Pierce; Catherine and Irvin. When Mr McCowen commenced for himself, he had no money by which to assist him in life ; he has since, by industry and economy, become the possessor of 233 acres of valuable land in Sees. 17. 19 and 20, twin Township ; is located on the Ithaca and Ft. Jefferson free turnpike. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch, has been a member of the Masonic Fraternity for thirty-two years ; the oldest member of the Ithaca Lodge, also a member of the I. 0. 0. F. for a number of years ; has been an active member of the Darke Co. Agricultural Association ; at present is President of the same ; has held the office of Twin Township Trustee four years. ANNA M. MARSHALL, retired, Gordon. The lady whose name heads this sketch was born in the State of New York Dec. 2, 1813, and removed in infancy with her parents to Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1815 ; her father, Lewis Mundhenk. was born in Wittenberg. Germany, in 1784 ; her mother, Mary A. Feit, was born in Botterburn, Germany, in 1789 ; they were married in New York June 4, 1811 : Mr. Mundhenk departed this life at the age of 74 years ; Mrs. Mundhenk is living at the advanced age of 90 years, and is still hale and hearty. Our subject was united in marriage with Philip Marshall, April 17, 1834 ; he was a son of Henry and Mary Marshall, who were natives of New Jersey, afterward residents of Montgomery Co., Ohio ; Mr. Marshall departed this life March 10, 1838, aged 26 years : she still bears the name of her departed husband, and was 67 years of age the day this sketch was written. Two children were given to this short but happy union, of whom only one survives, viz. : Mary A., born Jan. 12, 1835 ; Philip L., March 28, 1838, died May 19, 1838 ; Mary A.'s first marriage was consummated with John Mills ; her second marriage was celebrated with Mr. Troxall, Nov. 3, 1864 ; to their union three children have been given, viz. : Watson E., born Sept. 5, 1865 ; John D., Oct. 18, 1868 ; Letta N., Dec. 11, 1870. Mr. Troxall had been previously married to Susan Heater; four children were the fruits of their union, viz. : Emma B., born July 27, 1858 ; Martha A., Jan. 25, 1860 ; Mary E., July 3, 1861 ; Mrs. Troxall departed this life April 15, 1864, aged 29 years 6 months and 25 days : he was a son of David Troxall, a native of Pennsylvania, who departed this life in 1840 - his wife removed to Ohio in 1847, and died in July, 1861.

DAVID E. MUNDHENK, farmer ; P. 0. Gordon. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1831 ; he is a son of Lewis and Mary Mundhenk, and a brother to Mrs. Anna Marshall, whose sketch, with that of her parents, appeared in this work. Our subject's boyhood days were spent on his father's farm, where he assisted in agricultural pursuits until his 21st year, when he began life for himself, and for three years faithfully labored in Montgomery Co., and then removed to Darke Co., where he now resides. He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Reed, who is a daughter of John and Barbara Heed ; they were natives of Westmoreland Co., Penn., and removed to Montgomery Co. in 1836, where they resided until Mr. Reed's death, which occurred in February, 1840 ; then his wife removed to this count}', where she resided until her death, Feb. 17,1870, aged about 70 years Mr. Mundhenkisoneof Darke Co.'s self-made men, having begun life empty-handed, and by hard work and o-ood management, coupled with frugality, he and his amiable wife have accomplished the great object in life - made a good home, being now in possession of 160 acres of as good land as is to be found in the county ; the improvements are No. 1 in every particular ; his large house, which has recently been built, and its pleasant surroundings, make his premises a ver}r attractive place. Six children are the fruits of their union, viz., Clement V., born March 29, 1864 ; Charles J., born July 14, 1866 ; Eddie M., born Nov. 7, 1868 ; three dying in infancy. Politically, Mr. Mundhenk is a Democrat of the old Jacksonian school, but has never been a political aspirant.

PHILIP MUNDHENK, farmer ; P. 0. Arcanum ; was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, July 19, 1816 ; he is a son of Lewis and Mar}' Mundhenk, and a brother of Daniel, whose sketch appears here ; also a brother of Mrs. Marshall, in whose sketch proper mention is made of his parents ; he resided in his native county with his parents until his marriage, which was celebrated with Mary A. King May 11, 1848 ; she was a daughter of John and Elizabeth King, who were among the early settlers of Darke Co.; he settled in Darke Co. in 1848, and on the place where he now resides in 1853 ; he first purchased 160 acres of land, covered with a dense forest, which has entirely disappeared from view, and in its stead highly cultivated fields, rich and productive ; a fine barn and a large brick residence which he has erected, at a cost of $3,000, mark the place where a few years ago the handiwork of nature reposed in all its grandeur ; he has since added to the original purchase, and now owns 260 acres of fine land, all in a high state of cultivation. In August, 1878, he was rendered houseless by the devouring flames. Eight children have been given to their union, viz.: Lewis R., born Feb. 28, 1849 ; John. March 9, 1851 ; Elizabeth R., Feb. 16, 1853 ; Martha J., Jan. 28, 1855 ; Dora C, March 22, 1857 ; Philip A., July 6, 1861 ; Charles F., Jan. 12, 1867 ; Albert D., Jan. 30, 1870, and departed this life March 15, 1872.

WILLIAM NE ALEIGH, farmer and minister of the Gospel ; P.O. Arcauum ; was born in Preble Co., Ohio, Sept. 28, 1811 ; his parents were Henry and Elizabeth Nealeigh. He married Rachael Shields, of Preble Co., Nov. 17, 1831, and settled in Darke Co. in January 1837, on Sec. 3, Twin Township, Of his experience, Mr. Nealeigh writes as follows : " We were married in 1831, and commenced life with $30 ; in January, 1837, we emigrated to Darke County and settled on the land where we have since lived ; in five years, we had earned and paid for our 163 acres of land, $555. The forest looked wild ; there were wolves and deer in abundance, and the mosquitoes were so numerous that, when I went out of an evening to shoot squirrels, they'would alight so thick on my gun barrel that I could not see the sights, unless I fired very quickly, but now, the wilderness has become a fruitful field, thank God ! The first spring, we made a flour barrel full of sugar, ami twenty gallons of molasses ; in 1840, we were both converted to God. and in 1843, a Christian Church, called the Panther Creek Christian Church, and a meeting-house was built one mile south of Arcanum ; we were two of the charter members, and the only two now living ; I there commenced preaching. The church was two miles from our home, and we often traveled tliat distance six times in one day and night, carrying a child in our arms ; I traveled and preached whereever I could, and worked on my farm the balance of uiy time ; I have preached forty years, and during my ministiy have delivered 3,029 sermons. 1,586 exhortations, attended 304 funerals, solemnized 213 marriages, prayed with the sick 470 times, received into the church 422 members, baptized 212, made 153 speeches of various kinds, and traveled 40,324 miles, for which I have received about $50 per year. I was once young, and now I am old, and I never saw the righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread, thank God ! Mr. Nealeigh, has, in addition to the labors he has enumerated, raised a family of ten children.

GEORGE NISONGER, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 23 ; P. 0. Gordon, Ohio. The subject of this sketch is one of the old residents of Darke Co.; he was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, Oct. 16, 1823, and is a son of George and Fanny Nisonger, natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Nisonger resided in the county of his nativity until he removed to Twin Township, Darke Co., in 1849. He was united in marriage, in 1853, to Miss Louisa, daughter of John and LydiaSt. Clair, natives of Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio at an early day ; four children have been given to this union, viz. : Catherine, born Dec. 25, 1854 ; John W., born June 20, 1859 ; Henry, born March 12, 1862 ; Silas, born Jan 5, 1867. Catherine was married in the fall of 1872, to George Mathews, and resides on an adjoining farm ; John W. died Jan. 7, 1863. Both Mr. and Mrs. Nisonger are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are zealous, energetic Christians. Mr. and Mrs. Mathews are also members of the same church. Mr. Nisonger has 40 acres in his home farm, which is in a good state of cultivation.

DANIEL B. OLWINE, livery and exchange, Arcanum ; the subject of this sketch we are pleased to place in the foremost ranks of the early pioneers of Darke Co., he was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, in 1835, and is a son of David and Nancy Olwine, and removed with his parents to Van Buren Township in the spring of 1839. Mr. Olwine, the subject of this sketch, was only 4 years old at the time, but has many vivid recollections of the early pioneer life ; he assisted his father in the duties of farming, and, as a matter of course, young David had his part to perform in the many log rollings that were necessary before the dense forest of Darke Co., could be subjected to the use of the plow ; he labored on his fathers farm till 18 years of age, or in 1858, when he commenced his career without a dollar in his pocket or a second suit of clothes ; he served an apprenticeship as carpenter for one year, for which he received $8 per month, when he hired to another party for better wages and labored for three years, for which he received $18 per month. His marriage was celebrated on Oct. 1, 1857, with Miss Amanda Jones, daughter of Henry and Susan Jones, old residents of Darke Co., Ohio ; after his marriage, he was without funds to procure the necessary furniture for housekeeping ; but by negotiating a small loan from his father-in-law, he procured a little lumber and manufactured his own furniture for housekeeping, renting a farm in Adams Township, near Gettysburg, on which he lived for one year ; selling out again, he embarked in the carpenter business in Harrison and Adams Townships, which he prosecuted till 1860, when he again engaged in farming till 1864 ; he then engaged in the cabinet business and followed cabinet-making till 1869, and then handled walnut lumber for two years; in the fall of 1871, he again resumed the cabinet-making business ; in the spring of 1872, he removed to Arcanum and engaged in his previous business for two years ; during that time he erected a very fine residence, then kept hotel and dealt in real estate till 1875 ; selling out the hotel business, he purchased a large liverj' and barn and contents, which business he still continues to follow. Mr. Olwine has had a checkered career, and in all of his ups and downs he has been nobly assisted by his amiable and estimable wife. His barn contains many fine turnouts, and we would advise any who wants a drive to call on Dan. Eleven children have been given to this union, of whom all are living except three, two having died in infancy - Franklin T., was born Aug. 21, 1858 ; Susan B., May 8, 1860 ; Nancy J., Sept. 4, 1862 ; Ida L., Sept. 9, 1864 ; Essie G., Aug. 11, 1868 ; Gladis M., Dec 20, 1870 ; Adda F., June 21, 1873 ; Parlie M., April 15, 1876 ; Nancy J., died April 15, 1869, aged 7 years 7 months and 11 days.

B. F. OZIAS, freight, ticket and telegraph agent, Arcanum ; on the D. & U. R. R. To the above-named gentleman we are pleased to record a space in this work; he was born in Preble County, Ohio, Nov. 17, 1837, where he was brought up on the farm until 1855, and received a common-school education, after which he took a short course in the Seven-Mile Academy ; after returning from the seminary, was engaged in various pursuits until 1867, when he opened a drug store in Galveston, Ind., which business he followed until 1869 ; at this time sold out and came to Arcanum. Darke Co., where he has since resided, and up to 1872 was variously engaged ; at this time, he was appointed to the office he now holds, and duly tills ; our subject, since a resident of Twin Township, has been elected as Township Clerk two terms. Township Trustee one term, and Trustee of the Arcanum School Committee while erecting their new school building in 1876.

JOHN W. PARKS, farmer and teacher ; P. 0. Arcanum ; born in Preble County, Ohio, Oct. 22, 1839 ; is a son of Samuel Parks, a native of Preble County, born Feb. 22, 1818, and who, in 1839, united in marriage with Lydia McDonald ; seven children are the fruits of this union, who are all living, are married, and have families. Our subject remained at home at his birthplace until 1860, when he united in marriage with Minerva J. Gates, and by this union have one son, Clinton F. ; from the date of his marriage to 1870, he made several changes, at which time he came to Darke Count}T and purchased a farm near Arcanum. Mr. Parks has, since the age of 18, been a live and energetic teacher of Sunday school, and, since a resident of this county, held the office of Justice of the Peace three years ; he has recently bought and improved a small farm in Sec. 4, where he is comfortably situated for life.

JOHN R. RATLIFF, harness-maker ; P. 0. Arcanum. The subject of this memoir was born near Oxford, Ohio, Dec. 9, 1842, and is a son of Robert and Lucinda (Lee) Ratliff, old settlers of Butler County. Our subject resided with his father till he was 21 years of age and assisted in the labors of the farm ; he then began life for himself, and engaged in farming for about ten 3*ears ; then selling' the implements of the farm, he engaged in harness-making, which occupation he still follows. He was united in marriage. Dec. 22, 1864, with Miss Minerva, daughter of David and Catherine Conners, residents of Butler Co. Mr. and Mrs. Ratliff are the parents of four children, namely : Ellsworth, born Dec. 27, 1865, deceased ; Charles E., born Feb. 25, 1867; Stella K., born Dec. 10, 1870; Thomas C, born Nov. 8, 1876. Mr. and Mrs. Ratliff are members of the Presbyterian Church and are zealous workers in the cause of religion, and exemplary Christian people.

JOHN Y. ROBBINS, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 29 ; P. O. Ithaca, Is one of the oldest continuous residents of Darke Co. that we have had the pleasure of meeting with ; he was born in Ithaca Sept. 28, 1 820, and has lived within one mile of his birth place for nearly threescore years ; he has seen the dense forests of Darke County melt away before the woodman's ax and the onward march of improvement and civilization ; he has seen the dismal and gloomy swamps, which bred malaria and death, robbed of their deadly poisons, subdued, renovated and improved, and to-day, owing to the vast quantities of decayed vegetable matter, these quagmires are the most productive lands to be found in Darke County. His parents emigrated from North Carolina to the Stillwater, in Miami County, in 1800, afterward to Darke County in 1815, and to Richard and Rebecca Robbins belong the honor of being the first actual settlers in Twin Township. The subject of our sketch celebrated his marriage witli Susan, daughter of Adam and Elizabeth Rhidenour, June 11, 1840, and were natives of Maryland, and removed to Darke County in 1836 or 1837 ; children - Martha A.. Adam. Sarah. Ellen. Malinda. Daniel. Melzena, Ella, William and Alberta; Martha and Ellen, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Bobbins are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and bearers of the Cross for many 3'ears.

ABRAM RYNEARSON, farmer; P. 0. Ithaca. Born in Warren Co., Ohio, April 27. 1812. and is a son of Nicholas Rvnearson, born in New Jersey in 1769r and about 1792, married 3Iiss Jane Elison, who was born in New Jersey Aug. 25,

1769 ; I)}- this union they had ten children ; in 1806, they emigrated to Warren Co., Ohio ; Mr. Nicholas Rynearson came from New Jersey to Ohio in a large wagon ; he died in Warren Co. Feb. 24, 1822. The subject of this sketch remained at home with his parents till 1829, at which time he entered upon the apprenticeship of wagon-making. On Dec. 18, 1834, he was united in marriage with Rachel Ball, who was born in Deerfield Township, Warren Co., Ohio, Aug. 12, 1817 ; her father Luther Ball, was born in New Jersey in 1777, and Miss Elizabeth Fry, his wife, was bom in Maryland in 1793; they had four children ; the children of Abram and Rachel (Ball) Rynearson were nine in number, six daughters and three sons, of whom there are two daughters deceased ; Abram. after marriage, lived in Warren Co. until 1836, at which time he moved to Twin Township, and, when he came, found plenty of deer and turkej-s ; on moving to his farm in Sec. 29. where he now lives, he found it densely covered with huge oaks, beech, and a heavy growth of underbrush, which he and his family have, through industry, opened, so that it makes a beautiful farm home, where he and his companions are comfortably situated for life. Mr. and Mrs. R. have for many years been consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Ithaca, thereby lighting up the path of Christianity, that their children ma}* not stray from it.

Gr. W. SIGERFOOS, deceased. The subject of this sketch was born in the State of Maryland Dec. 13, 1825 ; he emigrated to Montgomery, Ohio, when 9 years of age, his early life being devoted to farming and teaching^ Upon the 28th of July, 1850, he was united in marriage with Nancy Shanck, a daughter of Peter Shanck, whose biography appears among the sketches of Monroe Township, in another part of this work ; she was born in Montgomery Co. Oct. 2, 1830 ; upon the marriage of Mr. S., he followed brickmaking and school-teaching some five years in Phillipsburg ; in 1855, he engaged in the dry -goods trade at Georgetown, Miami Co., continuing the same ten years ; he then devoted six years to farming, then came to Gordon and again engaged in the dry-goods trade, and in 1872 came to Arcanum and engaged in the dry-goods trade, continuing the same until his death, which occurred Oct. 16, 1875. The children of G. W. and Nancy (Shanck) Singerfoos were six in number, viz.: Lorin, born Aug. 25, 1851, died Nov. 28, 1870 ; Orrin, born March 22, 1853. died Aug. 12, 1870 ; Arrabella, born Oct. 22, 1856 ; Ella B., Jan. 26, 1863 ; Charles P., May 4, 1865, and Edward, Dec. 14, 1868. It will be seen by the above that the family circle remained unbroken until Aug. 12, 1870, when the death messenger entered and claimed Orrin as its first victim, and the November following again made his appearance, this time laying his cold, icy hands upon the first-born : thus within the short space of about three months two of the members of this happy family were removed from earth to Heaven, followed five years later by the death of a kind husband and father.

JOHN SMITH, merchant ; P. 0. Arcanum ; one of the old settlers of Darke Co. ; he was born in Adams Co.. Penn., in 1828, and removed, with his parents, to Preble Co., Ohio, in 1835 or 1836, and resided there till 1850, when he removed to Sampson, in Darke Co., where he remained about one year, thence to Arcanum, in 1851, and opened a store of general merchandise, it being the first store ever opened in Arcanum. The dimensions of this building were only 16x24 feet, and would present a striking contrast in comparison with his large, elegant and commodious store of the present day - the latter being 90x32 feet. Mr. Smith is one of the pioneer merchants of Darke Co., and has for thirty years been passing through the different phases of mercantile life, and by his strict business integrity and popular business habits, built up a trade that is second to none in Darke Co. He was united in marriage with Sophia McNutt in 1851 ; they were the parents of three children, viz.. Milton W., Leonidas H, Theophilus D. Mrs. Smith departed this life Feb. 7, 1859, leaving a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn her loss ; his marriage with Delia V. Bittle was celebrated in 1863 ; the children by this union were Edwin S., Bertelle L., Roy C, Maude C. and Mamie. W. ; the above are all living. The deceased. Elmer E., was born Dec. 4, 1864, and died Sept. 9, 1866. Mr. Smith is a son of Jesse and Christina (Dietrick) Smith, natives of Adams Co., Perm., both deceased ; Mr. Smith died at the age of 69 years ; Mrs. Smith at the age of 40.

A. F. SMITH, druggist, Arcanum ; one of the old settlers of Darke Co., and is a son of Jesse and Christina Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. He removed with his parents from Pennsylvania, to Preble Co., Ohio, in 1836, and remained there for a period of sixteen years, and was engaged in agricultural pursuits till 1852, when he abandoned that occupation, and removed to Arcanum the same year, and assisted his brothers in their business for two years, when he again resumed farming in Twin Township for a period of five years ; and thirsting for a more active life, he returned to Arcanum and entered in a general mercantile business, which he followed for twelve years, with fair success ; then embarked in the drug business, which he is still engaged in, and carries a full and perfect stock of drugs, paints, oils, and everything found in a first-class retail house. He was united in marriage with Miss Jane M., daughter of Herman and Margaret Conners, residents of Darke Co., in September, 1854. Two children have been given to this union, viz., Margaret E. and Eberle S. Mr. and Mrs. Conners departed this life within a few hours of each other, and their bodies were interred in the same grave.

WILLIAM M. SMITH, miller, grain and tobacco dealer, also dealer and shipper of live stock, Arcanum, Ohio. We could hardly do justice to the business interest of Arcanum without devoting a brief space of this work to the gentleman whose name heads this sketch, as we consider that the local interests of the town as well as the surrounding country owe a debt of gratitude to Mr. Smith as conducting his many branches of business in a highly honorable manner, and supplying a market for the productions of the surrounding countiy. He was born in Adams Co., Penn., Nov. 16, 1829, and in the sketch of his brother, John Smith, will be found a more extended genealogy of the family. The subject of our sketch came to Ohio about the year 1836, and located in Preble Co.; here he was raised to and followed agricultural pursuits until 1858, when he came to this place and clerked in the store of his brother one year. For the next ten years he was engaged in the general merchandise and grain trade, disposing of the same in 1869 ; he then devoted one year to the real-estate business, the three years succeeding being agent of the D. & U. R. R. ; about the year 1872, he erected his present warehouse, since which time he has successfully followed the above business, his shipments of grain in a season to the Eastern markets being upward of 200,000 bushels, his purchases of tobacco being disposed of for export ; his mill has a capacity of from 400 to 500 bushels a day, the production of which is shipped largely in car-load lots to the New England States ; his shipments of live stock will exceed fifty car-loads yearly ; and, as stated above, we consider the business as conducted by the above gentleman of great importance to the interests of Arcanum and the surrounding country. Upon the 16th of February, 1852, he was united in marriage with Maria Keltner ; she was a native of Indiana, but came to Montgomery Co. with her parents when quite young. They are the parents of four sons and two daughters, viz., John W., Seges, Jesse C, Charles E., Daisy and William R.

JAMES STEELE, farmer ; P. 0. Arcanum, Ohio. To the subject of this sketch we are pleased to accord a place in the front rank of the early pioneers of Darke Co. ; he was born in Maryland in 1802 ; in 1812, he removed with his mother to Butler Co., Ohio, and labored faithfully for the maintenance of his widowed mother and the support of the family ; his father died when he was only S years old, and the responsibility of providing for the family tested exclusively on our subject ; young as he was, he fully understood the situation, and labored faithfully for the support and comfort of the family till he attained his 21st year, at which time he learned the blacksmith's trade, which, combined with farming, made life very successful ; in 1868, on account of failing health and rapid advancement of old age, he abandoned the anvil and forge, and his attentions have been exclusively directed to the farm ; Mr. Steele has lived on the farm he purchased at Government price, for forty-five years ; he has .lived to see the monarchs of the forest laid low by the onward march of civilization, the wilderness robbed of its verdure, the desolate and pestilential swamps deprived of their poisons and converted into productive fields ; truly, the change has been great - a howling wilderness has been conquered and subjected to the use of a great industrial people within half a century, and still the resources of Darke Co. are not more than half developed. He united in marriage with Jemima Johns, March 6, 1825 ; twelve children have been given to this union, of whom ten are living, viz., Elizabeth and Hannah (twins), Uriah Stephen, Thomas, Martha, Asher, Ellen, Eliza and Mary (twins), William and Catherine having died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Steele have lived to see their children all married and comfortably situated in life ; they have, taken great pains in educating them, five of whom are successful educators.

ELIJAH THATCHER, farmer ; P. 0. Arcanum ; was born in Genesee Co., N. Y., Aug. 31, 1828, and is the fourth son of Moses and Mary (Wert) Thatcher, the former born in New York Oct. 6, 1804, the latter in New Jersey Nov. 10, 1807 ; ten children are the fruits of this union, viz.: George R., born March 30. 1832 ; Nathaniel, born Feb. 2, 1834 : Godfrey, March 10. 1836 ; Moses, Dec. 28, 1840 ; Mary A.. March 21. 1843 ; Loraine, Aug. 30, 1846 ; Sarah E., Feb. 3, 1849 ; Charlotte, June 8, 1850 ; John P., July 7, 1854. The parents and five children are deceased. Elijah remained at home principally through life, and in the year 1844 came with the family to Darke Co., where he has since resided; he is the only child living that has not united in marriage. In the year 1860, he commenced life for himself, and since then has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. Having started with nothing, he has since, by industry and econonry, become the possessor of 40 acres of land in Sec. 22, Twin Township, which is well improved and under good cultivation ; it is valued at about $3,000. During the last da}-s of his parents, he performed a child's duty by caring for them. In the late rebellion, he did his share in the field of war, and now lives a quiet life on the home farm of his sister.

JOHN L. THOMAS, retired ; P. O. Arcanum ; to the subject of this sketch we are pleased to accord a place in the advance guard of the early pioneers of Darke Co. ; he was born in Greene Co., Ohio, Feb. 16, 1827, and removed with his parents when in infancy to German Township, in Darke Co.. where his parents settled in 1827 ; his early boyhood days were spent at home, and, at the age of 16, he began life for himself and did carpenter work for fifteen years, when he commenced the stud}7 of medicine at the Allopathic College in Cincinnati, where he prosecuted his studies with much energy ; he was engaged in money-loaning and doing a general brokerage business for a number of years, and in 1878, he with his son opened a bank in Arcanum. He celebrated his marriage with Sarah A. Emerson, in June, 1849 ; she was a daughter of Gen. Henry Emerson. President of the Farmers' National Bank of Greenville ; four children were given to this union, viz.: Francis V., deceased ; Alonzo S., Joseph E., Sarah J. ; Mrs. Thomas departed this life Jan. 30, 1867. leaving a large circle of friends to mourn her departure ; a kind wife, an affectionate mother, are the tablets erected to her memory by her husband and children. He was again united in marriage with Nannevine Ballard, Nov. 29, 1871 ; one child has been given to this union, viz.. John Volney.

THEODORE O. WARNER, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O. Arcanum. The subject of this sketch was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, Nov. 24, 1842 ; he was reared on a farm and assisted his father in agricultural pursuits till his 21st year ; he, by hard labor, succeeded in obtaining a fair education in the common district schools ; at the age of 21. he commenced life for himself and worked at various pursuits for three years, when he was united in marriage with Miss Celestia E. Yeasel in 1866. The parents of Mr. Warner were born in Maryland, and removed to Montgomery County. Ohio, in 1828: his father died Sept, 3, 1874, aged 71 years ; his mother still continues to reside on the old home farm, and is now 72 years of age. The subject of our sketch was engaged in farming in Montgomery County till the spring of 1875. and then removed to Darke County, in Twin Township, where he still resides. Both Mr. and Mrs. Warner have been members of the Reformed Church upward of ten years, and are both zealous workers in the cause of religion. The father of Mrs. Warner, John Yeasel, was born in Virginia Oct. 15, 1804, and her mother, Susannah, was horn in Warren Co., Ohio, Nov. 1. 1820 ; they were united in marriage Sept. 1-1, 1842, her maiden name being Susannah Aughe.

JOHN WEIKLE, retired farmer ; P. O. Arcanum. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1804, and removed with his parents to Butler Co., Ohio, in 1814 ; here he assisted his father in agricultural pursuits until 1837. He has been thrice married, first with Sarah Shaffer, who bore him four children ; she departed this life in 1853. In 1855, he was married to Mrs. Mary Knox, by whom he had one child, Mrs. Weikle dying soon after. His third and last marriage was celebrated with Christiana Williams, two children being the result of this union ; Mr. Weikle has. by his own hard labor, skill and industry, succeeded in making a comfortable home in which to enjoy his declining years. He has been a member of the Reformed Dutch Church upward of fifty years, and a continuous resident of Darke Co. twentv-eight years.

JEREMIAH WHITENACK, farmer and stock-raiser, Sec. 7 ; P. 0. Arcanum. To the subject of this sketch we are pleased to accord a place in the front ranks of the early pioneers of Darke Co.; he was born in Somerset Co., N. J., Oct. 19, 1802 ; he assisted his father in the labors of the farm, and removed with his parents to Warren Co., Ohio, in 1823, and still continued to assist his father in farming and weaving till 1828. He was united in marriage, June 26 of the same year, to Miss Lavina, daughter of George and Elenore Camblin, residents of Pennsylvania ; one child has been given to this union, viz., John C, whose sketch appears in this work. Mr. Whitenack settled in Darke Co. in 1837, upon 68 acres of land, where he still resides. He and his wife are members of the Reformed Church, and are greatly interested in the advancement of the Christian religion, and have borne the cross for upward of fifty years ; his house has been the house of Cod, where his neighbors congregated to worship their Maker in their wilderness home. In the year 1858, the parents of Mrs. Whitenack. becoming old and infirm, came to her home and lived with her until their death ; Mr. Camblin died at the age of 81 years, and Mrs. Camblin at the age of 73.

MARTIN WILD, Twin Township Clerk; P. 0. Arcanum; born in Scotland, near Glasgow, May 15, 1850 ; his father was born in Liverpool, and mother in Germany, and died in Scotland. Our subject, in 1856, with his father, brother and sister, emigrated to Germany, where he attained a German education: in the spring of 1860, they traversed the countries of France, Prussia, and the Rhenish part of Germany ; and on the 10th of May following, they boarded a sailvessel, at Havre de Grace, France, for the United States, and landed in New York city in the following month ; soon after, it is supposed, their father enlisted in the late rebellion ; nothing has been heard of him since. Martin W.. though but a boy, engaged in various pursuits whereby he supported himself until 1868, at which time he emigrated to Darke Co.. where he now resides. In 1870, commenced the plastering trade, which has since been his occupation, and during the time (10 years) of his life in Twin Township he has held the office of Constable one year. Township Clerk four years, and is now a candidate for County Recorder, sub ject to the Democratic Primary election, for 1880. On May 11, 1872, he united in marriage witli Susan Siler, and by this union they have four children, of whom one is deceased, and three living viz.: Gertie, Eddie C and Ethel.

THOMAS H. WILLIAMS, farmer and stock-raiser. Sec. 32 ; P. O. Ithaca. The subject of this memoir is another among the many old settlers to be found in Twin Township; lie was born in Washington Co., Penn., July 5. 1806, an 1 is a son of John and Margaret Williams ; his father was a native of Maryland, his mother being born in Washington Co., Penn. ; he was reared on the farm, and assisted his father in agricultural pursuits till his 18th year, when he began life for himself, and engaged in ship-carpentering for three years, when, havinggained his majority, he emigrated West, and traveled through the States of Indiana. Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and. on his way up the Mississippi River to Wisconsin, he erected the first building in Keokuk, and also the first fine frame building in Madison. Iowa. This Western tour occupied about twelve 3'ears, when he removed to Pennsylvania, in 1839, and operated a saw-mill for two years, when he returned to Warren Co., Ohio, and was united in marriage with Miss Nancy, daughter of Barzilla and Mary Clark, Dec. 13, 18415. Her parents being residents of Warren Co., he remained in Warren Co. till the next year, and then removed to Darke Co., in Twin Township ; he first purchased 40 acres of land, on which he erected a frame dwelling, and moved his family into their new quarters in September, 1847 ; his land being in a wild state, Mr. Williams commenced his almost herculean task of removing the vast growth of timber and underbrush from the land, to prepare it for the implements of agriculture, and by dint of hard labor and perseverance, he succeeded in removing these obstructions ; in 1871, he purchased 80 acres more land, and in addition to the other, he now owns 120 acres of as fine land as is to be found in Darke Co. ; all in a good state of cultivation. Politically, Mr. Williams is a sound Republican, and has been identified with the most of the township offices ; he, with his estimable wife, are leading members in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have labored long and earnestly in their Master's vineyard. Mr. Williams is greatly interested in educational matters, and has spared neither pains nor expense in giving his children good educations, his 3011 Thornton being a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan University, and a proficient and successful educator. Mr. Williams informs us that James G. Blaine. America's greatest orator and statesman, was once a pupil in his brother's school, who was a very prominent educator in Pennsylvania. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Williams are nine in number, viz. : Clark L., born Dec. 7, 1848 ; Thornton R.. born July 21, 1850 : Frank M. born Nov. 3, 1852 ; Mary Belle, born May 31, 1854 : Martha J., born March 31. 1856 ; Melissa A., born April 5, 1858 ; their first child died in infancy ; Clark departed this life Feb. 9, 1871 ; Frank died Aug. 30, 1868.