Union Township

Union Township

At tliG session of tlic Commissioners, Marcli 9, 1825, tliis old toivnsliip, notwitlistandiiig its name, was dismembered, and reduced to its present proportions. Among its earliest settlers are many names by tliis time familiar to the reader : tliere were tlic Critcli fields, the Leplejs, the Butlers, the Darlings, Wm. and Abraham; the Shrimplins, Abraliam, Jolm and Samuel ; the Diirbins, Ben. and Wm. ; the Elwells, the Spurgcons, tlie Sapps, the Rightmires, the Lognes, McMillen, Williams, Titus, Hibbetts, (ireer, Stotts, George Davidson, Charles Kyan, Wm. Shaw, John Arnold, and the W^elkciS. Shortly after came John Konkle, Gasper Jacob Black, David Melick, John Earlywire, Valentine Dial, and George Freshwater. The judges of election, Oct. 10, 1809, were James Bightmire, John Wood, and Thos. Elwell. These were at that time the principal families of the powerful Creek nation ; representatives of almost all these arc to be met with in this county. In IHll, the officers of election were Wm. Sapp, Thomas Boaty, George Sapp ; Daniel Sapp and Jacob Draper.

Having traced out tlie Oritchfields, Darlings, and other families who have contributed abundantly toward the peopling of this county, we cannot pass by the Sapps. Eour brothers - Daniel, George, Joseph and William - emigrated from Allegheny county, Md., in 1806, and the Sapps of the present day are descendants of them, and of their uncle George, who came out in 1810 ; of another Sapp, Adam, who came about 1820 ; and of yet another, a cousin, known in the neighborhood as " Kentucky George," to distinguish him from the other Georges, who had preceded him. Daniel had a dozen children, of whom Hon. Wm. R., S.W., Dr. Enoch and Dr. Silas have been widely known. Mrs. J. Wauls, of Brown, and Mrs. J. Stover, of Mt. Gilead are only daughters living. George married Catharine Arnold ; and of their nine children six are living in the county. Levi is upon the old homestead. He has had eleven children ; and of this number is Wm. C, merchant, Mt. Yernon. Josej)h's numerous family went to Illinois. William's dozen children are scattered - only two of them are in Knox now. Of Kentucky George's fourteen children we have not space to give an account. James, associated with Wm. J. Morton, in the shoe store in Mt. Yernon, is his grandson. The original roots above named have produced over 200 shoots.

The Rightmires, James and Harrison; the Shrimplins, William, Samuel and Absalom ; Solomon Robinson and Gilman Hawn, with their families, well represent the hardy old stock. John Welker, Sr. lives upon the farm he cleared in 1809. His brother-in-law, Jacob Baugliman, and bis old neighbor, Wm. Eobison, yet exchange greetings with him ; his brother-in-law, Wm. Lydick, died recently. Many trij)s these old settlers made, with horse and pack-saddle, to Zanesville for salt and other necessaries. In the war of 1812, John Welker served as a high private, and has received a land-warrant for his services ; and that is the highest position he ever sought. He erected the first brick house in this part of the county. A man of sterling worth, he has commanded the respect of his neighbors, while he has reared up a family of fourteen children - only one of whom. Daniel, now resides in this county. The Eev. John, jr., in Illinois, and Judge Martin have acquired considerable reputation for ability.

The towns of Danville, Millwood and Oavallo are in this township. The first is one of the oldest in the county. For the past twenty years it has not improved much. It is the oldest post-ofiice in the eastern part of Knox: its post-masters have been W. R. Sapp, Enoch Sapp. G. H. Davidson, and S. W. Sapp. Oavallo was a great place on paper in the days of the Canal fever. While Isaac Means, S. W. Farquhar, W. Y. Richardson, D. S. Fairchild, 0. Keller, H. Thomas and others lived there it had much trade. From 1813 to 1818 were its best days ; then, almost all the exports and imports of Knox were through this port, four large warehouses were erected, and goods were sold by wholesale ; now, the only man living within its limits is i*^elson Thatcher, and his neighbor on the old Butler farm is Solomon Gearner. The future

MiLWOOD received its name in consequence of the first mill in this locality having been built in the woods. Elisha Gibbs was the venturesome individual who first carried it on ; John Hawn succeeded him, and it has been known since as Welker's mill. The first settlers around the early mill were principally of the Welker family. The village contains about 150 inhabitants, and was laid out by John Hawn. James Britton built the first house in the town plat - a little hewed log cabin, which has been weatherboarded to give it a more modern look. Two of his sons, Lewis and Reuben, are here ; James and the rest of his family reside in Iowa. Ool. Israel Dillon for many years was a leading business man ; he also moved to Iowa. Jacob Garret put in the first tanyard about 1829, and is yet carrying on the business. The Spragues and Carpers of other years are generally in the west. Sam. Welker, the pioneer in keeping " entertainment for man and beast," had the following poetical notice painted over his bar :

He kept tavern in the old style ; always had plenty to eat and drink of the substantial kind, his table literally groaning under its load ; his welcome to guests was a good deal of the order of the old Dutch landlord, who said, " Shust make yourselves perfectly at home : I wish to God you were all at home ;" and all felt that they were at liberty to wait upon tliemselves. Kevertlieless, Saui. was a jovial fellow, and his house was a favorite with wayfaring men and those disposed to be joyful. The students of Kenyon occasionally navigated the waters of Owl Creek to Welker's port. Among other trips made there was one in 1833, in a canoe, by B. 0. Hurd and Herman Canfield, late Lt. Col. of the 72d Kegiment, killed in the battle of Pittsburg; to the memory of our departed friend we will say, that a more honorable and noble youth never lived.

There are three neat church edifices : the Disciple, built in 1858. The building committee consisted of Lewis Oritchfield, Albert Ellis, and Wm. Moody; Pastor - Kev.Wm. Moody. The Methodist, built about 1856, through the exertions of Jacob Hammond, who has resided here over thirty years. The Presbyterian, built in 1853. The present Elders are Jesse Wintringer, John P. Smith ; Eev. J. N^ewell, Pastor. This church was mainly established by Rev. John Burns, A.M., a graduate of Kenyon College, was its minister, from 1854 until his death, in April, 1859. The merchants are Christian and Peterman, E. McCloud and Lewis Britton. The postmasters, since 1831, are John Welker, jr., Michael Miller, L. Britton and J. Hammond.

S. Israel, Esq., has put in a substantial dam, improved the old mill, and added carding-macliines to the stand. Prank Israel superintends the establishment. Wm. McCloud, a native of Scotland, now in his 66th year, who, in 1816, settled at Clinton, and worked as a stone-cutter until 1840, is here.

with his son. Another stone-mason, John Meginnes, resides here ; tAvo blacksmiths, D. Saltsman and Josiah Horn ; two carpenters, Joseph Butts and Harris Johnson.

The land of this township is generally rollingand hilly, especially in the eastern part where the Mohican courses its way, and upon Owl Creek, which passes through the southern j)art, affording much valuable water power. In 1830, the population was 851, and 10,867 acres of land were on the tax list. In 1810, the inhabitants counted 1,098 ; in 1850, 1,192 ; and in 1860, 1,101.

Source changes here: from History of Knox County, Ohio, Its Past and Present, Containing a Condensed, Comprehensive History of Ohio, Including an Outline History of the Northwest; a Complete History of Knox County ... a Record of Its Soldiers in the Late War; Portraits of Its Early Settlers and Prominent Men ... Biographies and Histories of Pioneer Families, Etc, by Hill, N. N. (Norman Newell), Comp, published 1881; 4,735 words in this source stream.

Union Township

THIS township as originally organized in 1808, consisted of Brown, Jefferson, Union, Butler, Jackson, Howard, three-fourths of Harrison, and the east half of Clay. In 1S25 it was reduced to five miles square, having Jefferson on the north, Howard on the west, Butler on the south, and Coshocton county on the east. Union retained the boundary given it in 1825 until 1876, when one mile from the south side of Jefferson was attached to it.

Union contains within its limits a very fine body of land, embracing almost every variety of soil, which is well adapted for the production of grass or grain, as well as every variety of fruit and vegetables grown in Ohio. The surface is broken and hilly, especially along the Mohican river and Owl creek, where there are numerous high bluffs, for the most part still well timbered. Beyond these hills the township is moderately undulating, and is covered with fine farms and farm houses. The farmers are generally well and comfortably settled, and many evidences of wealth and prosperity are seen while passing through the township. It is well watered. The two largest streams in Knox county flow through the township. Owl creek crosses the southwest corner, and the Mohican river cuts across the northeastern part, passing out of the township into Coshocton county, and flowing southwardly, it again enters Union in the southeastern part of the township, and continuing a southeastwardly course about three-fourths of a mile it again passes into Coshocton county.

Little Jelloway and its tributaries water the northern portions, and several small streams the central and southern portion of the township.

The Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad runs diagonally across the northern part of Union, the direction being northeast and southwest.

Originally the township was densely timbered, but owing to the large amount destroyed in clearing up the land, and the demand for fuel and building purposes, the timber is now confined to the high hills, and to small tracts in other parts of the township.

The first white people who remained permanently, came to Union about 1806 or 1807. George Sapp, sr., entered the first piece of land within the present limits of Union about 1806. He settled in the northwestern part of the township.

The Critchfields, Robinsons, Rightmires, Durbins, Spurgeons, McMilhns, Hibbitts, Logues, Greers, George Davidson, Jacob Black, Charles Ryan, John Wood, William Shaw and John Arnold, settled here prior to 18 14. The settlement of the township progressed slowly until after the War of 181 2. At the election held in 18 10 but twentythree votes were polled. In 18 16 the number had increased to forty-five.

After the close of the War of 1812 settlers came in from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia in large numbers, and Union, notwithstanding the large amount of territory detached in the formation of other townships, ranks among the first in population in the county at this time.

The Sapps, who were the first to settle in the township, as now constituted, have long been prominent in the county. Four brothers, George, Daniel, William and Joseph, emigrated from Maryland to Knox county in 1806, two of the brothers, George and Daniel, settling within the present Hmits of Union.

The ancestors of the Sapps were members of Lord Baltimore's colony of Maryland. Jonathan, son of George Sapp, sr., who was born in Union, July 17, 1809, was the first white child born in the township. He was married in 1830 to Miss May Durbin. Their children were Simeon, Catharine M., Susan, Francis, William, BVancis second, Edmund, Sarah Ann, Susannah, John B. and Timoothy. George Sapp, sr., was a soldier of the War of 181 2, acting as ensign in Captain John Greer's company. His brother Daniel was a lieutenant in. the same company.

The settlers lived in great fear of the Indians, and during the absence of George Sapp in the army his wife would take her children each night to a block-house, which stood near the present site of Rossville, and stay over night Daniel Sapp raised a family of twelve children. Hon. William R. Sapp, one of his sons, was many years a leading citizen of the county. The four brothers have been dead many years, but their descendants are still numerous in Union and adjoining townships.

John Welker, sr., came from Pennsylvania in 1808, settling on section fifteen. About the same time his brother, David Welker, came. The Welkers were of German descent. These pioneers were industrious, energetic, hard-working men. They had to encounter all the privations of early occupation of unsettled territory. At that early day they packed their salt and other necessaries with horse and pack-saddle from Zanesville, through an almost unbroken wilderness, and did their milling at the same place. In the War of 181 2 John Welker served as a high private, and received a land warrant for his services, and that was the highest position he ever sought. Although often urged by his neighbors to accept office, he always refused. He reared a family of fourteen children, all of whom lived to the age of manhood and womanhood. One of his sons, Martin Welker, born in Union in 1819, left the farm in 1831, and went with his brother, John, jr., to clerk in his store at Millwood, where he remained several years. He intended to make a merchant of himself, but an incident occurred, which changed his plans of life. In the store one day, a man offered him a bank bill which, on inspection he found to be counterfeit, and so informed the man. It was passed on another individual, and he prosecuted, and Martin was subpoened as a witness, before the grand jury at Mt. Vernon. He attended, and was compelled to remain several days. He had never seen a court, or a live judge. He there saw Judge Dean, then in the prime of life on the bench, and who seemed to him a much greater man than General Jackson, of whom he had heard. He also there saw Brown, the Curtises, Delano and other lawyers engaged in court matters, and he concluded it would be a great thing himslf to be a lawyer. Sitting beside another boy of his acqaintance, he informed him that he would be a lawyer and a judge, and some day take the place of Judge Dean. He kept that resolve before him, and worked for that aim and purpose, and within twenty years, with their great changes, he became a lawyer, and was elected in 1851, judge of the district over Judge Dean, who was his opponent at the election. He sat upon the same bench, held the same court at Mt. Vernon, the holding which by Judge Dean had inspired his youthful ambition. After leaving his brother's store, he studied law with the late Hon. W. R. Sapp at Millersburgh, Holmes county, and subsequently practiced law in partnership with him for several years. In 1851 he was elected judge of the sixth district as before mentioned. In 1857 he was elected by the Republicans, lieutenant-governor on the ticket with Governor Salmon P. Chase. He served one term, and declined a renomination. In 1864 he was nominated for Congress for the fourteenth district, and elected, and was reelected in 1866 and 1868, serving six years in Congress. During the war he served as as aid-de-camp to Governor Dennison, and assistant adjutant general with Governor David Tod, with the rank of colonel. In November, 1873, he was appointed by President Grant, district judge for the United States, for the Northern district of Ohio, which office he still holds. John Welker, sr., lived many years in the enjoyment of the fruits of his pioneer labors. He died in 1869.

William Lydick, a brother-in-law of John Welker, sr., came at the same time with him to Union township. He settled on section sixteen. He was married while residing in Pennsylvania to Miss Catharine Welker. He continued to reside in Union until his death in 1861. One of his sons, Reuben, still lives here.

Another early settler was Dr. Charles Waddle. For many years he was engaged in the mercantile business, and also practiced medicine at Danville. He was a man of great ability and energy, and one of the most eloquent Methodist preachers of that region and day, having a remarkable power over a congregation. He died a year or two since at the ripe age of eighty-seven.

the occupation of hatter until his removal to this township in 1825. Mr. Hann was an intimate personal friend of Hon. Henry Clay and wife, having been a resident in the locality of Mrs. Clay, prior to her marriage and of his removal to Pennsylvania. Naturally, from his associations with and personal regard of Mr. Clay, he was politically an ardent Whig, and during the existence of that party was an earnest advocate of its principles. Mr. Hann was a soldier in the War of 18 12. His father, John Hann, sr., was a Revolutionary soldier, and his grandson John Hann a soldier of the war of the Rebellion. One of his sons, Oilman Hann, was the second white child born in Mt. Vernon. John, sr., died in 1856.

Jesse Winterringer, sr., came from Maryland to Jefferson county, Ohio, early in this century, and removed from that county to Union township in 1 816. He located his farm near the centre of Union. His family of twelve children are all dead but two sons, Jesse, jr., and Barney, who still reside here. The Winterringers are active working members of the Presbyterian church of Millwood. Jesse Winterringer, sr., died on .he nineteenth of September, 1854.

David Welker came from Pennsylvania in 1809. He purchased one hundred and ten acres on section fifteen, and he reared a family of eight children. He died in 1853.

Joseph Workman emigrated from Alleghany county, Maryland, in 1814. He was a very zealous minister of the Dunkqrd or German Baptist church, and was the first to promulgate the principles and doctrines of that sect here. His labors were crowned with much success, as that denomination numbers many members in the southern and eastern part of Knox county.

Rev. Jacob Hammond, although not of the verjfirst settlers of Union, has long been an influential and useful citizen. He removed from Alleghany county, Maryland, in 1824, first settling on section sixteen. He engaged in farming for many years after his arrival in Union. In 1848 he was ordained a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, since which time he has been actively employed in ministerial labors. He has solemnized some fifty marriages and preached one hundred and twentyfive funeral sermons of persons residing within a

Among the latter settlers are various names more or less familiar. Jacob Ross, proprietor of Rossville and a very public-spirited citizen, has been a resident of Union for many years. George Gann, who became a resident of Union in 1876, by reason of the annexation of a portion of Jefferson, was a man of more than ordinary enterprise. He came to Jefferson township in 1831. In consideration of his services in securing the right of way for the Cleveland, Pittsburgh & Mt. Vernon railroad, Gann, one of the stations on the railroad, was named in his honor. He died September 7, 1877.

The first grist-mill was erected by Robert Griffin, about 181 2 or 1813. It was located in the southeastern part of the township, on Owl creek. Although a very insignificant one, when compared with the mills of this period, it had an extensive patronage. The settlers residing in Knox, Coshocton, and other counties were its patrons. It was torn down many years ago, and no vestige of it remains. Another grist-mill was built by John Greer, on Jelloway creek, in 1815 or 18 16. The first saw-mill in the township was built about the same time, by Daniel Sapp, on Little Jelloway creek.

For some years after the first settlement, the schools were held in the houses of the pioneers and in small log school-houses. John Wells probably taught the first school in the township. William Critchfield was another of the first schoolteachers. He taught in a log shool-house near the site of Millwood.

The Catholics were the religious pioneers of Union. Shortly after the first settlers came to the township, George Sapp, sr., Elias Arnold, David Logsdon, Samuel Durbin, sr., Thomas White and wife, Catharine Sapp, Mrs. Daniel Rogue, Benjamin Durbin and wife, and Isaac Dial, organized what is now known as "St. Luke's Catholic church, of Danville," which is situated about one mile west of that village. The congregation consisted chiefly of emigrants from Maryland, who were descendants of Lord Baltimore's English Catholic colony. The society was organized by Rev. Edward Fen- wick. Among the resident pastors were Reverend Fathers Dominick Young, Rymaker, Francis, Marshall, O'Leary, McAlear, Hill, Joseph Martin, Boland, Myers, Berger, Brink, and I.amy, who is now archbishop of the diocese of Santa Fe, New Mexico; Thomas J. Boulger, JuHus Brent, who died in 1880, and the present priest, Rev. Francis Marquery.

The first church building, a log one, was built about 1809 or 1810. George Sapp, sr., donated the land for the church and cemetery attached to it. During the pastorate of now Archbishop Lamy, a frame church was erected, in which the congregation worshipped until 1877, when the present beautiful and commodious brick edifice was erected at a cost of about twelve thousand dollars. The church is probably the strongest numerically of any country church of Roman Catholics in Ohio. One hundred or more families are members and regular attendants of St. Luke's. The parsonage, or priest's residence, is situated near the church, on land donated by Henry Porter, sr., one of the early members. A new parsonage is in process of building. The cemetery attached to the church was laid out probably before 181 2. It is enclosed with a neat, board fence. Many beautiful evergreens, emblematical of a life that never ends, is planted at proper distances in the grounds, and affords a very desirable resting place for the hundreds of devout Catholics interred there.

The German Baptist church was organized about 1832, by Elder James C. Workman. Solomon Robinson, Jacob Shultz, Isaac Workman, William Robinson, Jacob Robinson, and their wives, were the first members. Solomon Robinson was the first deacon. Elder J. C. Workman was the first pastor. He was succeeded by Elders Elias Workman, John L. Workman, and John J. Workman, who is the pastor at this time. From 1816 to the organization in 1832 the Dunkards, or German Baptists, held frequent meetings at the houses of the Workmans and other adherents to the church. The present church building was erected in 1861. It is a frame forty-five by sixty-five feet in dimensions, located about one mile south of Danville.

Baptist church, but are all considered as one organization and one church. The total membership of all the societies in the different townships which are included in the Danville church is one hundred and sixty-one. Near the church is a cemetery, neatly fenced and properly cared for, in which many repose. The foregoing are the only churches in the township, outside of the towns.

Danville is one of the oldest towns in the eastern part of Knox county. The exact date of its laying out cannot be ascertained. Jonathan Sapp, son of George Sapp, sr., who with Robert Waddle was the founder of the town, puts the date as late as 18 1 8, although it is generally claimed to have been as early as 1813 or 1814. John McDaniel built the first house, McConnell and Grant were the first merchants and William M. Brooks the first physician. William Critchfield kept the first hotel. The first post-ofifice in the eastern part of Knox county was established at Danville, and W. R. Sapp was the first postmaster. The first schoolhouse was a hewed log building erected a short distance south of the village, and the first school was taught by James Cain. The present population is about four hundred, and is steadily increasing. For many years before the advent of the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad the town was at a stand still, but since its completion through Union township, the business of Danville has greatly increased. There are now two dry goods stores kept by L. Frost & Son, and Workman & Workman; one grocery by Julius Sapp, one drug store by Burns & Shaw, one clothing store by John Smithhiser, one hardware store by Sapp Brothers, one hotel by Emrick & Sapp, one furniture and undertaking establishment by T. M. Metcalf, one wagon shop by Jacob Shindle, one blacksmith shop by Welker Bimm, one cooper shop by Jesse Riser, etc. George Shaw is postmaster. The village has a flourishing district school, and it is probable the union school system will be adopted before many years.

There are two churches within the village limits, Christian and Methodist. There was a society of Presbyterians established here a few years after the laying out of the village, which had an existence of some years, whenJhe organization was disbanded, and the society was reorganized under the name of the Presbyterian church of Millwood, and transferred to that town. The Christian church of Danville was organized April 20, 1834, by Elder James Hays. The first members were Daniel Sapp, William Robinson, William Shaw and Elizabeth Robinson. In 1837 Elder James Marvin succeeded Elder Hays as pastor, and remained such until 1861, when he resigned his pastorate. The church was without a stated pastor until 1868, when Elder Marvin again resumed the pastoral charge of the congregation, and continued in that relation until 1872, when he was succeeded by Elder C. A. Williams, who in turn was succeeded by Elder A. Hanger, the present minister. From 1832 until 1840 or 1841, the society held their meetings in the Methodist church of Danville, and until the present frame church edifice was erected. This building was repaired in 1866, to the amount of nine hundred dollars. In 1866 a series of meetings were held by Elders Harrod and Chrisman, which resulted in an addition of forty-six members to the society. There are about sixty members in full connection with the church at this time. The officers at present are: Deacons, H. C. Robinson and Joseph Church ; trustees, Thomas Snow, Eliza Porter, H. C. Robinson and Joseph Church.

The Methodist Episcopal church was organized at an early date, but as no records were kept, and the first members all dead, but little of its history can be obtained. Among the early members were the Welkers and Waddles; and the early preachers were Rev. John Welker, jr., and Rev. Charles Waddle, both for several years residents of Danville. Both were men of much note in the Methodist church and in the community at that time. They were men of great ability and eloquence, and were instrumental in doing much good. The frame church in which the society now worships was erected many years since. The church enjoys a moderate degree of prosperity.

The following members of the lodge have deceased since its organization: 1857, Dr. John White, April 20th; 1862, Wait Whitney, October 12th; 1864, Ebenezer Wilson, April 26th; 1866, Daniel Hess, April 20th; 1869, Solomon W. Sapp, March I St; 1870, William Magers, December i8th; 1871, Mark Greer, April 29th; 1872, Thomas S. Barber, August 29th, John M. Church, November 23d; 1873, Solomon H. Porter, May 27th, Samuel Kinsey, August 31st, Dr. Isaac Putnam, October 7 th; 1876, Alonzo Gardner, March 29th, William Porter, October 2d; 1879, John Spurgeon, October ist - total deaths, fifteen.

Millwood is situated in the southeastern part of the township. Owl creek flows along its north'border. It was so named in consequence of the first mill in the locality being built in the woods, although it is claimed by some of the citizens to have been named in honor of a Mr. Millwood, of Virginia, a friend of the founder of the town. It is a neat and ordinary village of about two hundred inhabitants. At one time it was the most flourishing village in Union, and a large amount of business was transacted in the place; but since the location of the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad at Howard and Rossville, the tide of business has ceased to flow here and has been diverted to those villages. The town was laid out about 1825, by John Hann. James Britton built the first log house, and Israel Houseworth the second one. Ross Arbuckle built the first frame dwelling. The first gristmill was built about 1825, by John Hann and Eli- sha Gibbs. The present grist-mill, the second one in the town, was erected by John Hann. The first school-house, a small log building, was built on Jacob Hammond's farm about 1829, and William Critchfield taught the first school in this house.

John VVelker was the first merchant and also the first postmaster. Israel Dillon was another of the early merchants and leading business men. The first tanyard was built in 1829 by Jacob Garret. Samuel Welker kept the first hotel.' This hotel was the favorite resort of the students of Kenyon college when that institution was in its palmiest days. During the summer season they would make frequent trips in small boats down Owl creek to the locality known as "The Caves," near Millwood. After rusticating among the caves and hills until satisfied they would adjourn to "Uncle Sam's" hotel where they would spend many hours in social conviviality before returning to Gambler.

There are three churches in the town, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Disciple. The first church was erected in 1833; ^^ ^^'^s a small brick building, and known as the "Union church," no particular denomination having control but free for all sects to hold meetings in.

The Episcopal church was organized about 1831. Jacob Hammond, John Welker, James Britton, and their wives, were of the first members. Rev. John preached in this society. Some of the later pastors were Revs. Abner Gough, Hiram Shafer, Jacob Hammond, David Gray, and Abner Shaw, the present minister. The society worshipped in the Union church several years, when it became unsafe and was torn down, after which they held their meetings in the school-house until about 1850, when the present frame building was erected. The original membership was about twelve, the present, seventy-three.

The Presbyterian church at Millwood is a continuation of the Danville Presbyterian church which was organized at an early day at Danville, and after an existence of several years the organization was transferred to Millwood and thereafter known as the Millwood Presbyterian church. The society worshipped some years in the Union church, school-house, and private houses, when on the seventh of January, 1855, a deed for the building lot was made, and soon after the church in which the congregation now worship was built. Rev. John Burns, a graduate of Kenyon college, was the first pastor, and remained such until his death in 1859. The society being weak there has been no settled pastor since his decease. Rev. J. Newell,

Newton have preached at various times. The original membership was fourteen, present, forty. Jesse Winterringer and Ephraim McMillin were the first elders. The present elders are Daniel L. McGugin, Edward Gash, and Jesse Winterringer. During the pastorate of Rev. John Burns he taught a select school which was attended by students from various portions of the county.

The "Disciples of Christ" organized a society in 1858. The early members of this church were William Moody, Albert Ellis, Lewis Critchfield and wife, William Cassell, Laura Moody, Benjamin Ellis and wife, Eliza Gist, Elizabeth Cassell, Norman Farmer and wife, and John Wolford and wife. The first officers were; Elders William Moody, Albert Ellis; Deacons Lewis Critchfield and William Cassell. The first pastor was Elder William Moody, who was succeeded by Elders William H. Taylor, Uriah Hoffman, Charles Van Voorhes, and O. W. Kyle. The church has no pastor at this time. A frame church was erected m 1858. The society is in a flourishing condition, having eighty members in full connection with the church at present. A Sunday-school is connected with the church; Abram Ryan is superintendent. There are several other features of the town which adds to its completeness, and its desirableness as a place of residence. A fine, new iron bridge spans Owl creek at the approach on the southeast of the village. Much beautiful natural scenery is to be found in the immediate vicinity, consisting of beautiful high hills, rocky elevations, and "the caves," a subterranean opening in the banks of Owl creek. The town has one first-class dry goods store, one grocery, one shoe store, two hotels, one harness shop, one shoe shop, etc.

Gann, formerly Mt. Holly, was laid out by John Hibbitts in 1838. It is finely situated on the east side of the Mohican river. It has a population of about two hundred. The name was changed from Mt. Holly to Gann by the president of the Cleve- land, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad, in honor of George Gann, deceased. John Hibbitt built the first house, Robert Long built the first gristmill about 1840. It is still standing and is now owned by Isaac and James Thompson. Isaac Means kept the first store. The village contains two dry goods stores, two groceries, one hardware store, two hotels, one drug store, one harness shop, one blacksmith shop, etc. The village school is taught by Joseph Bluebaugh. Joshua Ferenbaugh is the agent for the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad. A fine iron bridge, several hundred feet long, spans the Mohican river.

There are two church edifices in the town, but only one organization at this time. The Methodists organized a church in 1848. At that time a series of meetings were held in the village by Rev. Lawrence, resulting in a large number of conversions, and a class of some forty members was formed; James and John Hibbitts and Elizabeth Titus were of the first members. Rev. Lawrence was the first pastor. His successors were Revs. Jacobs, Wheeler, Baughman, Barnes, Markum, Houston, Harris, and Ayres, the present pastor. The church was built in 1864.

The United Brethren organized a society and built a church in 1864. Some of the first members were Stephen Day, William Black, Charles Hibbitts, L. Severns and their wives, Isaac Hyatt, and Edward Day. The organization continued a few years, when it was discontinued and the church building sold to the Catholics. There is no organization of Catholics in Gann, the church being used principally for funeral occasions.

Rossville was laid out by Jacob Ross, about the time of the completion of the railroad. It is situated one-half mile south of Danville, and has a population of about two hundred and twenty-five. It is a live village and is steadily advancing. There are one dry goods store, one drug store, one grocery, one hardware store, one steam flouring-mill, one planing-mill and lumber yard, one jewelry shop, one hotel, etc., in the village. As yet there are no churches erected in the village. Last and least is Buckeye City, laid out in the fall of 1880 by J. C. Tilton, who has an insurance ofifice in the embryo village. The new school edifice, a large and substantial brick building, is located in the village.

These structures, with two or three dwellings, comprise the sum total of buildings. As the village is situated midway between Danville and Rossville, it is not probable that it will ever attain much prominence. 'I'he three villages will, no doubt, in course of time be consolidated.

Cavallo was among the many towns that have had an existence in Union. It .was located in the southeastern part of the township, on the Mohican, and for several years enjoyed a large measure of prosperity. From 1840 to 1848 were its best days. Three or four large warehouses were erected for the receiving of the exports and imports that were conveyed to and from the town, and shipped via the Mohican through the Walhonding canal. The building of numerous railroads in central Ohio was the cause of its death, for it ceased to be a village many years ago, and no trace is left to mark its location.

Source changes here: from History Knox County, Ohio, by N. N. Hill., Jr, published 1881; 4,622 words in this source stream.

Union Township

Union contains within its limits a very fine body of land, embracing almost every variety of soil, which is well adapted for the production of grass or grain, as well as every variety of fruit and vegetables grown in Ohio. The surface is broken and hilly, especially along the Mohican river and Owl creek, where there are numerous high bluffs, for the most part still well timbered. Beyond these hills the township is moderately undulating, and is covered with fine farms and farm houses. The farmers are generally well and comfortably settled, and many evidences of wealth and prosperity are seen while passing through the township. It is well watered. The two largest streams in Knox county flow through the township. Owl creek crosses the southwest corner, and the Mohican river cuts across the northeastern part, passing out of the township into Coshocton county, and flowing southwardly, it again enters Union in the southeastern part of the township, and continuing a southeastwardly course about three-fourths of a mile it again passes into Coshocton county.

Little Jelloway and its tributaries water the northern portions, and several small streams the central and southern portion of the township.

The Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad runs diagonally across the northern part of Union, the direction being northeast and southwest.

Originally the township was densely timbered, but owing to the large amount destroyed in clearing up the land, and the demand for fuel and building purposes, the timber .is now confined to the high hills, and to small tracts in other parts of the township.

The first white people who remained permanently, came to Union about 1806 or 1807. George Sapp, sr., entered the first piece of land within the present limits of Union about 1806. He settled in the northwestern part of the township.

The Critchfields, Robinsons, Rightmires, Durbins, Spurgeons, McMillins, Hibbitts, Logues, Greers, George Davidson, Jacob Black, Charles Ryan, John Wood, William Shaw and John Arnold, settled here prior to 1814. The settlement of the township progressed slowly until after the War of 1812. At the election held in 1810 but twentythree votes were polled. In 1816 the number had increased to forty-five.

After the close of the War of 1812 settlers came in from Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia in large numbers, and Union, notwithstanding the large amount of territory detached in the formation . of other townships, ranks among the first in population in the county at this time.

The Sapps, who were the first to settle in the township, as now constituted, have long been prominent in the county. Four brothers, George, Daniel, William and Joseph, emigrated from Maryland to Knox county in 1806, two of the brothers, George and Daniel, settling within the present limits of Union.

The ancestors of the Sapps were members of Lord Baltimore's colony of Maryland. Jonathan, son of George Sapp, sr., who was born in Union, July 17, 1809, was the first white child born in the township. He was married in 1830 to Miss May Durbin. Their children were Simeon, Catharine M., Susan, Francis, William, Francis second, Edmund, Sarah Ann, Susannah, John B. and Timoothy. George Sapp, sr., was a soldier of the War of 1812, acting as ensign in Captain John Greer's. company. His brother Daniel was a lieutenant the same company.

The settlers lived in great fear of the Indians, and during the absence of George Sapp in the army his wife would take her children each night to a block-house, which stood near the present site of Rossville, and stay over night Daniel Sapp raised a family of twelve children. Hon. William R. Sapp, one of his sons, was many years a leading citizen of the county. The four brothers have been dead many years, but their descendants are still numerous in Union and adjoining townships.

John Welker, sr., came from Pennsylvania in 1808, settling on section fifteen. About the same time his brother, David Welker, came. The Welkers were of German descent. These pioneers were industrious, energetic, hard-working men. They had to encounter all the privations of early occupation of unsettled territory. At that early day they packed their salt and other necessaries with horse and pack-saddle from Zanesville, through an almost unbroken wilderness, and did their milling at the same place. In the War of 1812 John Welker served as a high private, and received a land warrant for his services, and that was the highest position he ever sought. Although often urged by his neighbors to accept office, he always refused. He reared a family of fourteen children, all of whom lived to the age of manhood and woinanhood. One of his sons, Martin Welker, born in Union in 1819, left the farm in 1831, and went with his brother, John, jr., to clerk in his store at Millwood, where he remained several years. He intended to make a merchant of himself, but an incident occurred, which changed his plans of life. In the store one day, a man offered him a bank bill which, on inspection he found to be counterfeit, and so informed the man. -It was passed on another individual, and he prosecuted, and Martin was subpcened as a witness, before the grand jury at Mt. Vernon. He attended, and was compelled to remain several days. He had never seen a court, or a live judge. He there saw Judge Dean, then in the prime of life on the bench, and who seemed to him a much greater man than General Jackson, of whom he had heard. He also there saw Brown, the Curtises, Delano and other lawyers engaged in court matters, and he concluded it would be a great thing himslf to be a lawyer. Sitting beside another boy of his acqaintance, he informed him that he would be a lawyer and a judge, and some day take the place of Judge Dean. He kept that resolve before him, and worked for that aim and purpose, and within twenty years, with their great changes, he became a lawyer, and was elected in 1851, judge of the district over Judge Dean, who was his opponent at the election. He sat upon the same bench, held the same court at Mt. Vernon, the holding which by Judge Dean had inspired his youthful ambition. After leaving his brother's store, he studied law with the late Hon. W. R. Sapp at Millersburgh, Holmes county, and subsequently practiced law in partnership with him for several years. In 1851 he was elected judge of the sixth district as before mentioned. In 1857 he was elected by the Republicans, lieutenant-governor on the ticket with Governor Salmon P. Chase. He served one term, and declined a renomination. In 1864 he was nominated for Congress for the fourteenth district, and elected, and was reelected in 1866 and 1868, serving six years in Congress. During the war he served as as aid-de-camp to Governor Dennison, and assistant adjutant general with Governor David Tod, with the rank of colonel. In November, 1873, he was appointed by President Grant, district judge for the United States, for the Northern district of Ohio, which office he still holds. John Welker, sr., lived many years in the enjoyment of the fruits of his pioneer labors. He died in 1869.

William Lydick, a brother-in-law of John Welker, sr., came at the same time with him to Union township. He settled onsection sixteen. He was married while residing in Pennsylvania to Miss Catharine Welker. He continued to reside in Union until his death in 1861. One of his sons, Reuben, still lives here.

Another early settler was Dr. Charles Waddle. For many years he was engaged in the mercantile business, and also practiced medicine at Danville. He was a man of great ability and energy, and one of the most eloquent Methodist preachers of that region and day, having a remarkable power over a congregation. He died a year or two since at the ripe age of eighty-seven.

the occupation of hatter until his removal to this township in 1825. Mr. Hann was an intimate personal friend of Hon. Henry Clay and wife, having been a resident in the locality of Mrs. Clay, prior to her marriage and of his removal to Pennsylvania. Naturally, from his associations with and personal regard of Mr. Clay, he was politically an ardent Whig, and during the existence of that party was an earnest advocate of its principles. Mr. Hann was a soldier in the War of 1812. His father, John Hann, sr., was a Revolutionary soldier, and his grandson John Hann a soldier of the war of the Rebellion. One of his sons, Gilman Hann, was the second white child born in Mt. Vernon. John, sr., died in 1856.

Jesse Winterringer, sr., came from Maryland to Jefferson county, Ohio, early in this century, and removed from that county to Union township in 1816. He located his farm near the centre of Union. His family of twelve children are all dead but two sons, Jesse, jr., and Barney, who still reside here. The Winterringers are active working members of the Presbyterian church of Millwood. Jesse Winterringer, sr., died on .he nineteenth of September, 1854.

David Welker came from Pennsylvania in 1809. He purchased one hundred and ten acres on section fifteen, and he reared a family of eight children. He died in 1853.

Joseph Workman emigrated from Alleghany county, Maryland, in 1814. He was a very zealous minister of the Dunkard or German Baptist church, and was the first to promulgate the principles and doctrines of that sect here. His labors were crowned with much success, as that denomination numbers many members in the southern and eastern part of Knox county.

Rev. Jacob Hammond, although not of the very first settlers of Union, has long been an influential and useful citizen. He removed from Alleghany county, Maryland, in 1824, first settling on section sixteen. after his arrival in Union. In 1848 he was ordained a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, since which time he has been actively employed in ministerial labors. He has solemnized some fifty marriages and preached one hundred and twentyfive funeral sermons of persons residing within a

Among the latter settlers are various names more or less tamiliar. Jacob Ross, proprietor of Rossville and a very public-spirited citizen, has been a resident of Union for many years. George Gann, who became a resident of Union in 1876, by reason of the annexation of a portion of Jefferson, was a man of more than ordinary enterprise. He came to Jefferson township in 1831. In consideration of his services in securing the right of way for the Cleveland, Pittsburgh & Mt. Vernon railroad, Gann, one of the stations on the railroad, was named in his honor. He died September 7, 1877.

The first grist-mill was erected by Robert Griffin, about 1812 or 1813. It was located in the southeastern part of the township, on Owl creek. Although a very insignificant one, when compared with the mills of this period, it had an extensive patronage. The settlers residing in Knox, Coshocton, and other counties were its patrons. It was torn down many years ago, and no vestige of it remains. Another grist-mill was built by John Greer, on Jelloway creek, in 1815 or 1816. The first saw-mill in the township was built about the same time, by Daniel Sapp, on Little Jelloway creek.

For some years after the first settlement, the schools were held in the houses of the pioneers and in small log school-houses. John Wells probably taught the first school in the township. William: Critchfield was another of the first schoolteachers. He taught in a log shool-house near the site of Millwood.

The Catholics were the religious pioneers of Union. Shortly after the first settlers came to the township, George Sapp, sr., Elias Arnold, David Logsdon, Samuel Durbin, sr.. Thomas White and wife, Catharine Sapp, Mrs. Daniel Rogue, Benjamin Durbin and wife, and Isaac Dial, organized what is now known as "St. Luke's Catholic church, of Danville," which is situated about one mile west of that village. The congregation consisted chiefly of emigrants from Maryland, who were descendants of Lord Baltimore's English Catholic colony. The society was organized by Rev. Edward Fen- wick. Among the resident pastors were Reverend Fathers Dominick Young, Rymaker, Francis, Marshall, O'Leary, McAlear, Hill, Joseph Martin, Boland, Myers, Berger, Brink, and Lamy, who is now archbishop of the diocese of Santa Fe, New Mexico; Thomas J. Boulger, Julius Brent, who died in 1880, and the present priest, Rev. Francis Marquery.

The first church building, a log one, was built about 1809 or 1810. George Sapp, sr., donated the land for the church and cemetery attached to it. During the pastorate of now Archbishop Lamy, a frame church was erected, in which the congregation worshipped until 1877, when the present beautiful and commodious brick edifice was erected at a cost of about twelve thousand dollars. The church is probably the strongest numerically of any country church of Roman Catholics in Ohio. One hundred or more families are members and regular attendants of St. Luke's. The parsonage, or priest's residence, is situated near the church, on land donated by Henry Porter, sr., one of the early members. A new parsonage is in process of building. The cemetery attached to the church was laid out probably before 1812. It is enclosed with a neat, board fence. Many beautiful evergreens, emblematical of a life that never ends, is planted at proper distances in the grounds, and affords a very desirable resting place for the hundreds of devout Catholics interred there.

The German Baptist church was organized about 1832, by Elder James C. Workman. Solomon Robinson, Jacob Shultz, Isaac Workman, William Robinson, Jacob Robinson, and their wives, were the first members. Solomon Robinson was the first deacon. Elder J. C. Workman was the first pastor. He was succeeded by Elders Elias Workman, John L. Workman, and John J. Workman, who is the pastor at this time. From 1816 to the organization in 1832 the Dunkards, or German Baptists, held frequent meetings at the houses of the Workmans and other adherents to the church. The present church building was erected in 1861. It is a frame forty-five by sixty-five feet in dimensions, located about one mile south of Danville.

Baptist church, but are all' considered as one organization and one church. The total membership of all the societies in the different townships which are included in the Danville church is one hundred and sixty-one. Near the church is a cemetery, neatly fenced and properly cared for, in which many repose. 'The foregoing are the only churches in the township, outside of the towns.

Danville is one of the oldest towns in the eastern part of Knox county. The exact date of its laying out cannot be ascertained. Jonathan Sapp, son of George Sapp, sr., who with Robert Waddle was the founder of the town, puts the date as late as 1818, although it is generally claimed to have been as early as 1813 or 1814. John McDaniel built the first house, McConnell and Grant were the first merchants and William M. Brooks the first physician. William Critchfield kept the first hotel. The first post-office in the eastern part of Knox county was established at Danville, and W. R. Sapp was the first postmaster. The first schoolhouse was a hewed log building erected a short distance south of the village, and the first school was taught by James Cain. The present population is about four hundred, and 1s steadily increasing. For many years before the advent of 'the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad the town was at a stand still, but since its completion through Union township, the business of Danville has greatly increased. There are now two dry goods stores kept by L. Frost & Son, and Workman & Workman; one grocery by Julius Sapp, one drug store by Burns & Shaw, one clothing store by John Smithhiser, one hardware store by Sapp Brothers, one hotel by Emrick & Sapp, one furniture and *undertaking establishment by T. M. Metcalf, one wagon shop by Jacob Shindle, one blacksmith shop by Welker Bimm, one cooper shop by Jesse Riser, etc. George Shaw is postmaster. The village has a flourishing district school, and it is probable the union school system will be adopted before many years.

There are two churches within the village limits, Christian and Methodist. There was a society of Presbyterians established here a few years after the laying out of the village, which had an existence of some years, when the organization was disbanded, and the society was reorganized under the name of the Presbyterian church of Millwood, and transferred to that town. The Christian church of Danville was organized April 20, 1834, by Elder James Hays. The first members were Daniel Sapp, William Robinson, William Shaw and Elizabeth Robinson. In 1837 Elder James Marvin succeeded Elder Hays as pastor, and remained such until 1861, when he resigned his pastorate. The church was without a stated pastor until 1868, when Elder Marvin again resumed the pastoral charge of the congregation, and continued in that relation until 1872, when he was succeeded by Elder C. A. Williams, who in turn was succeeded by Elder A. Hanger, the present minister. From 1832 until 1840 or 1841, the society held their meetings in the Methodist church of Danville, and until the present frame church edifice was erected. This building was repaired in 1866, to the amount of nine hundred dollars. In 1866 a series of meetings were held by Elders Harrod and Chrisman, which resulted in an addition of forty-six members to the society. There are about sixty members in full connection with the church at this time. The officers at present are: Deacons, H. C. Robinson and Joseph Church; trustees, Thomas Snow, Eliza Porter, H. C. Robinson and Joseph Church.

The Methodist Episcopal church was organized at an early date, but as no records were kept, and the first members all dead, but little of its history can be obtained. Among the early members were: the Welkers and Waddles; and the early preachers were Rev. John Welker, jr. and Rey. Charles Waddle, both for several years-residents of Danville. Both were men of much note in the Methodist church and in the community at that time. They were men of great ability and eloquence, and weres instrumental in doing much good. 'The frame church in which the society now worships was 2rected many years since. The church enjoys a moderate degree of prosperity.

The following members of the lodge have deceased since its organization: 1857, Dr. John White, April 2oth; 1862, Wait Whitney, October 12th; 1864, Ebenezer Wilson, April 26th; 1866, Daniel Hess, April zoth; 1869, Solomon W. Sapp, March 1st; 1870, William Magers, December 18th; 1871, Mark Greer, April 29th; 1872, Thomas S. Barber, August 29th, John M. Church, November 23d; 1873, Solomon H. Porter, May 27th, Samuel Kinsey, August 31st, Dr. Isaac Putnam, October 7th; 1876, Alonzo Gardner, March zgth, William Porter, October 2d; 1879, John Spurgeon, October 1st - total deaths, fifteen.

Millwood is situated in the southeastern part of the township. Owl creek flows along its north border. It was so named in consequence of the first mill in the locality being built in the woods, although it is claimed by some of the citizens to have been named in honor of a Mr. Millwood, of Virginia, a friend of the founder of the town. It isa neat and ordinary village of about two hundred inhabitants. At one time it was the most flourishing village in Union, and a large amount of business was transacted in the place; but since the location of the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad at Howard and Rossville, the tide of business has ceased to flow here and has been diverted to those villages. The town was laid out about 1825, by John Hann. James Britton built the first log house. and Israel Houseworth the second one. Ross Arbuckle built the first frame dwelling. The first grist mill was built about 1825, by John Hann and Eh.

sha Gibbs. The present grist-mill, the second one in the town, was erected by John Hann. The first school-house, a small log building, was built on Jacob Hammond's farm about 1829, and William Critchfield taught the first school in this house.

John Welker was the first merchant and also the first postmaster. Israel Dillon was another of the early merchants and leading business men. The first tanyard was built in 1829 by Jacob Garret. Samuel Welker kept the first hotel. This hotel was the favorite resort of the students of Kenyon college when that institution was in its palmiest days. During the summer season they would make frequent trips in small boats down Owl creek to the locality known as "The Caves," near Millwood. After rusticating among the caves and hills until satisfied they would adjourn to "Uncle Sam's" hotel where they would. spénd' many hours in social conviviality before returning to Gambier.

There are three churches in the town, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Disciple. 'The first church was erected in 1833; it was a small brick building, and known as the "Union church," no particular denomination having control but free for all sects to hold meetings in.

The Episcopal church was organized about 1831. Jacob Hammond, John Welker, James Britton, and their wives, were of the first members. Rev. John Hazzard and Hooper were of the first who preached in this society. Some of the later pastors were Revs. Abner Gough, Hiram Shafer, Jacob Hammond, David Gray, and Abner Shaw, the present minister. The society worshipped in the Union church several years, when it became unsafe and was torn down, after which they held their meetings in the school-house until about 1850, when the present frame building was erected. 'The original membership was about twelve, the present, seventy-three.

The Presbyterian church at Millwood is a continuation of the Danville Presbyterian church which was organized at an early day at Danville, and after an existence of several years the organization was transferred to Millwood and thereafter known as lot was made, and soon aftér the church in which the congregation now worship was built. Rev. John Burns, a graduate of 'Kenyon college, was the first pastor, and remained such until his death in 1859. The society being weak there has been no settled pastor since his decease. Rev. J. Newell, Rev. Henry Hervey, J. D. Walkinshaw, and - - Newton have preached at various times. The original membership was fourteen, present, forty. Jesse Winterringer and Ephraim McMillin were the first elders. The present elders are Daniel L. McGugin, Edward Gash, and Jesse Winterringer. During the pastorate of Rev. John Burns he taught a select school which was attended by students from various portions of the county.

The "Disciples of Christ" organized a society in 1858. The early members of this church were William Moody, Albert Ellis, Lewis Critchfield and wife, William Cassell, Laura Moody, Benjamin Ellis and wife, Eliza Gist, Elizabeth Cassell, Norman Farmer and wife, and John Wolford and wife. The first officers were: Elders William Moody, Albert Ellis; Deacons Lewis Critchfield and William Cassell. The first pastor was Elder William Moody, who was succeeded by Elders William H. Taylor, Uriah Hoffman, Charles Van Voorhes, and O. W. Kyle. The church has no pastor at this time. A frame church was erected in 1858. The society is in a flourishing condition, having eighty members in full connection with the church at present. A Sunday-school is connected with the church; Abram Ryan is superintendent. There are several other features of the town which adds to its completeness, and its desirableness as a place of residence. A fine, new iron bridge spans Owl creek at the approach on the southeast of the village. Much beautiful natural scenery is to be found in the immediate vicinity, consisting of beautiful 'high hills, rocky elevations, and "the caves," a subterranean opening in the banks of Owl creek. The town has one first-class dry goods store, one grocery, one shoe store, two hotels, one harness shop, one shoe shop, etc.

Gann, formerly Mt. Holly, was laid out by John Hibbitts in 1838. It is finely situated on the east side of the Mohican river. It has a population of about two hundred. The name was changed from Mt. Holly to Gann by the president of the Cleve- land, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad, in honor of George Gann, deceased. John Hibbitt built the first house, Robert Long built the first gristmill about 1840. It is still standing and is now owned by Isaac and James Thompson. Isaac Means kept the first store. The village contains two dry goods stores, two groceries, one hardware store, two hotels, one drug store, one harness shop, one blacksmith shop, etc. The village school is taught by Joseph Bluebaugh. Joshua Ferenbaugh is the agent for the Cleveland, Mt. Vernon & Columbus railroad. A fine iron bridge, several hundred feet long, spans the Mohican river.

There are two church edifices in the town, but only one organization at this time. The Methodists organized a church in 1848. At that time a series of meetings were held in the village by Rev. Lawrence, resulting in a large number of conversions, and a class of some forty members was formed; James and John Hibbitts and-~Elizabeth Titus were of the first members. Rev. Lawrence was the first pastor. His successors were Revs. Jacobs, Wheeler, Baughman, Barnes, Markum, Houston, Harris, and Ayres, the present pastor. The church was built in 1864.

The United Brethren organized a society and built a church in 1864. Some of the first members were Stephen Day, William Black, Charles Hibbitts, L. Severns and their wives, Isaac Hyatt, and Edward Day. The organization continued a few years, when it was discontinued and the church building sold to the Catholics. There is no organization of Catholics in Gann, the church being used principally for funeral occasions.

Rossville was laid out by Jacob Ross, about the time of the completion of the railroad. It is situated one-half mile south of Danville, and has a population of about two hundred and twenty-five. It is a live village and is steadily advancing. There are one dry goods store, one drug store, one grocery, one hardware store, one steam flouring-mill, one planing-mill and lumber yard, one jewelry shop, one hotel, etc., in the village. As yet there are no churches erected in the village. Last and least is Buckeye City, laid out in the fall of 1880 by J. C. Tilton, who has an insurance office in the embryo village. The new school edifice, a large and substantial brick building, is located in the village.

These structures, with two or three dwellings, comprise the sum total of buildings. As the village is situated midway between Danville and Rossville, it is not probable that it will ever attain much prominence. 'lhe three villages will, no doubt, in course of time be consolidated.

Cavallo was among the many towns that have had an existence in Union. It was located in the southeastern part of the township, on the Mohican, and for several years enjoyed a large measure of prosperity. From 1840 to 1848 were its best days. Three or four large warehouses were erected for the receiving of the exports and imports that were conveyed to and from- the town, and shipped via the Mohican through the Walhonding canal. The building of numerous railroads in central Ohio was the cause of its death, for it ceased to be a village many years ago, and no trace is left to mark its location.