Union Township

Union Township

Union township is situated within the **United States Military District,"' constitutes town one, and range five, of that survey, and contains twenty-five square miles of territory.

School Lands

When the township was surveyed, in 1803, the Government reserved the southeast quarter of the same, for school purposes, and divided the sections into quarters, numbering them from one to twenty-five, beginning at the northeast corner of said tract.

When Ebenezer Zane, in 1797, surveyed the road ''from Wheeling to Limestone, in Kentucky,"" he passed through the territory now known as Union township. and opened up a highway in the wilderness : a thoroughfare along which the tide of emigration poured, surging its way towards the setting sun.

streams, and gentle slopes of the military district. Hence it was, that town one - now Union township - was early settled by hardy and industrious pioneers. When the whites first settled in this locality, there was an Indian camp on section five, on the land now owned by Isaiah Carr. There was alsoa camp on ''White Eyes" Creek - the stream deriving its name from the Shawanoes chief, by that name. PIONEERS. It is not certainly known who was the first settler of Union township, as the school land, being occupied by a class of people, unable to purchase land elsewhere, few of whom became permanent settlers. During the interval between 1803 and 1807, Henry Hardesty occupied lot nineteen, Peter Monroe, lot twenty-three, Henry Hardy, lot twelve, William Newland, lot three, and Mullen, lot nine.

From 1803 to 1806, the Reasoners, Speers, Findleys, and Wilsons, from Pennsylvania, settled in the northeastern portion of the township, near the present site of New Concord. Henry Reasoner, having in the year 1804, entered the land on which the town now stands.

In 1806, Samuel Wilson located on the northwest quarter of section eleven,gand finding a 'bee tree'? near his cabin, he appropriated the bees, and established the pioneer apiary of Muskingum county. His son, John, still occupies the premises, and looks after the descendents of the 'told bee gum'' - the bees from which his father nurtured for fifty-seven years.

In 1804, Thomas Warren, following the '* Old Zane Trace," located on section thirteen, and opened his house for the accommodation of the traveling public. This was the pioneer. tavern of the township, and was afterwards known as the *' Few Tavern Stand."

Judge David Findley came from Pennsylvavia, in 1806, and purchased the southwest quarter of section one, of Henry Reasoner. In 1813, he was elected associate Judge, and held that office until 1820, when he resigned.

In April, 1807, John Hadden, father of Samuel Hadden, located on the southwest quarter of section eight. Andrew Lorimer, William Hunter, and Robert Walker, settled on sections thirteen and eighteen, and Ralph Hardesty, from Wheeling, West Virginia, pitched his tent on the southeast quarter of section fourteen. This location afterwards became famous as the spot chosen by the stalwart and pugnacious settlers to '' vote, drink, and fight."'

Captain Joseph McCune came from Pennsylvania, in 1808, and settled on section ten, now known as the McClelland property. Mr. Mc- Cune became a man of influence in the community, serving in the war of 1812, as Captain, and, subsequently, as Justice of the Peace for a period of twenty-one years.

The year 1811, added quite a number of settlers to the population. William Garner located on the northwest quarter of section five. (now Israel Carr's). Peter Galigher entered a portion of section four, (now John Jennings ). Benjamin Wortman located on the southwest quarter of section seven, (now partially occupied by the village of Norwich). Simon Elhott settled on land now owned by Simon Elliott, Jr., being the southwest quarter of section three. ,

Frederick Henderson, Adam and Daniel Bowman, and David Sellers, arrrived trom Pennsylvania, in 1812. Henderson bought land of William Gladden, who had entered two quarter sections where Thomas Marshall now resides, (section eighteen), and hired Isaac Tewalt to build him a house. This house, a log one, is still standing on the Marshall farm, but unoccupied.

Col. John Reynolds located on the southwest quarter of section thirteen, on the Wheeling road, and opened a store in 1815; the first regular store within the bounds of the present township.

Samuel Cummins, Samuel Hadden, and John Vandevert, are the oldest inhabitants of the township, having resided in it continuously for over seventy years.

Early Improvements

The first houses erected by the early settlers were, of course, of the most primitive kind, being built of unhewn logs, and covered with clapboards instead of shingles, held in place by weight poles instead of nails, the latter being a a luxury few could afford. Judge David Findley, being more prosperous than most of his neighbors, covered his house, in 1809, with lap shingles and wrought nails, the first in the county outside of Zanesville.

The first brick house built in Union township. was that of Peter Monroe, on lot twenty-three of the school land, in 1827. The next was that of Judge David Findley, in New Concord, in 1828.

The first road through Union township was the ''Old Wheeling Road,"' surveyed by Ebenezer Zane, in 1797. It entered town one, of the '' Military Lands,"' on the southeast quarter of section ten, and passed into range six, (now 'Perry township), on the northeast quarter of section sixteen.

In 1827, the National Road was surveyed through, entering the township on the southeast quarter of section one, and passing out on the northwest quarter of section fifteen. After the construction of the National Pike, the old Wheeling Road was abandoned as a thoroughfare, and the travel transferred to the new route, which, for years, enjoyed all the '' pomp and circumstance"' of the four-in-hand stage coaches. But a time came when zs glory, too, departed, when the Central Ohio Divsion of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was completed, running nearly parallel with the National Pike, and the once autocratic stage coach found itself left far in the rear by the all conquering '' iron horse ;" it bade farewell to the old familiar scenes and hied away to '' the pleasant plains of Iowa."

The settlers in Union township either went to Zanesville, or Cambridge, to get grinding done, and when they wanted boards, they resorted to the '' pitsaw."' But the distance to the former, and the labor of the latter, were grievances not easily to be borne, and home talent was brought into requisition to dispense with both. The first horse mill was built by Benjamin Reasoner, in 1815.

The first fulling mill was built at New Concord, by Judge David Findley. The Judge was also the happy possessor of a primitive gristmill, but the time of building it is unknown.

Harper & Keitly built a '"'tramp sawmill,'' just south of lot twelve, inthe town of Norwich, in 1827, which was afterwards turned into a brewery by Holley & Son. Applin & Abbitson were also its proprietors for a time. Finally it was turned into a tannery, by James Caldwell.

In 1830, a large gristmill was built on lands owned by Jos. Geyer, south of Norwich, by Thos. Maxfield, Thomas Few, Samuel Lorrain, and Manning Putnam. It contained three run of buhrs, with ample machinery, but after passing through various hands, (always unprofitable, ) it was torn down, and the machinery moved to Gratiot, west of Zanesville, in 1870.

'Samuel Hadden and Andrew Lorimer built a sawmill on Hadden's land, in 1840, and sold it to John Whitaker, in 1841. He attached buhrs for grinding, and moved the mill to New Con- road depot, with threerun of buhrs. After being owned by various partners, Alexander Speer became its sole proprietor, in 1863, and. still runs it. ;

John Hadden built the first tannery, in 1807, and followed the business until 1827, when he was succeeded by Messrs. Caldwell and Mc- Clure.

The first store was kept by Colonel John Reynolds, at Locust Grove, in 1815. He was succeeded by Thomas Maxfield, who kept store at the Grove until 1827, when he moved to the new town of Norwich.

The first tavern was kept by Thomas Warren, on the old ''Zane Trace," in 1805. The accommodations were of the most primitive kind, but amply sufficient for the time. He sold out to George Heep, and he, to Isaac Few, in 1812. This place was long noted as the ''old Few Tavern stand."

As early as 1804, William Speer located on the southeast quarter of section two, and in the spring of 1805, opened a blacksmith shop, the first in the present township of Union. He brought his iron by wagon, over the Alleghany

Joseph McKinney was also an early blacksmith. He began in 1816. "Joseph Reasoner learned the trade at Pittsburg, and located his shop on the Wheeling road. He made the first ax ever made by hand in Muskingum county. In later years he used to boast of having shod General Jackson's horses.

Robert Walker was the first cooper in the new settlement. He came from Ireland, and brought with him, as the fruit of his industry, ''a bag of yellow guineas,'' with which he made a payment on his land, and, tradition says, in lieu of a bank, deposited the remainder in a log.

Distillertes. - During the early stages of agriculture in Muskingum county, distilleries were numerous, and as it was not considered disreputable to engage in the business, we find such men as Judge Findley owning and running a still.

Whiskey was an article of consumption almost as common as food, but it-was pure, and the evils resulting from its use were not so great as at the present day.

Organization of the Township. - The date of the organization of several townships of Muskingum, does not appear, upon examination of the Commissioners' journal, Union township amongst them, but that it was amongst the first, is evident from thefact of elections being held at the old Few Tavern in 1808, at which Benjamin Reasoner was elected Justice of the Peace.

The polls were subsequently moved from Warren's, (afterwards Few's,) to Ralph Hardesty's, further west on the Wheeling road, which continued to be the voting place until the completion of the National Road, when it was established at Sensabaugh's tavern, in Norwich.

In April, 1876, the township was divided into two voting precincts, and a polling place established at New Concord, for the eastern ten sections of the township.

Union township contains two villages, one college, eight schools, eight churches, three postoffices, two railroad depots, three telegraph offices, and three mills.

The railroad depots are on the Central Ohio Div sion of the Baltimore and Ohio Road; one at New Concord, and the other at Norwich. The agent at New Concord is Alexander Speer.

A telegraph office was established at the New Concord depot, but afterwards removed to Norwich station. Wm. P. Parks,and H. W. Jones, operators.

Norwich is situated in Union township, near the center of section seven, and occupics a portion of three-quarters of that section. 'Lhe southwest quarter was entered by Benjamin Wortman, the northwest by Frederick Yarian, and the northeast by George Richie, who sold the sme to John' Crawford, in 1811. William Harper. .n Englishman, bought of Crawford and laia out the town of Norwich, in 1827, naming it for his native town of Norwich, in England.

New Concord

In the year 1804, Henry Reasoner, trom Pennsylvania, entered the southwest quarter of section one, which he sold to David Findley, in 1806, and, in 1828, Findley laid out the town of New Concord, along the line of the National Road.. .

New Concord Official Directory

New Concord United Presbyterian Church was originally known' as MOP ed Creek Church." the first meeting-house being situated about one mile southwest of the village of New Concord. It was connected with what was then known as the Associate Reformed Church. Tradition says that the first Associate Reformed preaching in this county was in Judge Findley's barn, not far from the present residence of David Stormant. Rev. Alexander Calderhead was the preacher.

The Crooked Creek congregation was organized in 1812. The first stated supply was Rev. Alexander Craig. The first Elders were Judge Findley, Andrew Lorimer, - - Rambo, and James Cummins. The first settled pastor was Rev. David Proudfit. He was installed in 1824 or 1825.

In consequence of the vast territory over which the members of the congregation were scattered, preaching stations were established, seven miles north and five miles south. John Duff was chosen Elder for the north branch (now Lebanon), and David Forsyth for the south branch (now Salt Creek).

Mr. Proudfit preached half his time at Crooked Creek, and divided the remainder equally between the two branches. Death closed his labors, 1n 1830.

About 1851, steps were taken looking toward the organization of an associate church, in New Concord. Of this congregation, Rev. S. McArthur was the first preacher.

The following persons were Elders in this congregation: Robert Harper, Elijah Coulter, Joseph McCune, Matthew Cherry, Samuel Briggs, William Laro, and R. R. Moore.

Rev. James M. Henderson became pastor in 1855. After the union of the Associate, and Associate Reformed churches, it was thought best that the New Concord congregations ( Associate,'' and ''Associate Reformed''), should become one. To this end, both pastors (Waddle and Henderson), resigned. All the other officials resigned, except Samuel Cummins and Elijah For: sy the, who continued in office in order to hold the organization.

In February, 1860, Rev. James C. Murch took charge of the congregation, as pastor. He resigned in 1876. July 1, 1876, the present pastor, Rev. David Paul, D. D., commenced his pastoral labors.

Since the,union of the two congregations, the following persons have acted as elders: Elijah - Forsythe, Samuel Cummins, Joseph Harper, Samuel Harper, William Patterson, James A. Miller, William McClure, J. L. Patterson, John Speer, and James Nelson.

The present membership is about three hundred. Recently, five deacons were chosen, and ordained, namely: B. Marshall, J. L. Boyd, Andrew Caldwell, Wilson White, and I. W. Chisholm.

In 1804, Rev. John Wright preached at the house of John Reasoner, on the southeast quarter of section ten. Other ministers preached occasionally until about 1818, when Rev. James Robinson organized a church. Mr. Robinson was succeeded by Rev. Samuel Baldridge, in 1819. At this time, services were held in houses and barns, and sometimes in a tent at Pleasant Hill Spring. It was during Mr. Baldridge's' ministry that the first church was erected. It was a frame, forty feet square, two stories high, and stood on Mr. Reasoner's land, near the old *'Zane road." In 1823, Dr. Baldridge moved west, and from 1823 to 1827, the church had no regular pastor. Rev. M. Clark holding communion services in 1825, and Rev. Mr. McMillen, in 1826. }

In the year 1827, Rev. James Arbuthnot was ordained, and installed pastor of the churches of Pleasant Hill and Salt Creek, and on the 27th of October, 1829, he organized the church at Norwich. of which he also became pastor, and remained in this connection till 1830.

Rev. Samuel Wilson was ordained, and installed as pastor over the united churches of Pleasant Hill, Salt Creek, and Norwich, April 5, 1832, giving to each one-third of his time, and receiving from each one-third of his salary, of $400. This arrangement continued for seven years, when Pleasant Hill and Norwich each applied for one-half of his time, and Mr. Wilson was released from Salt Creek. He continued in this relation until April 28, 1868, thirty-six years, and only dissolved his connection when forced to do so by the infirmities of age.

Rev. Faris Brown became stated supply for the united charge September 10, 1875, and was installed pastor and 'still continues in that relation.

In the year 1872, a new site having been obtained in the village of New Concord, a new church building was erected thereon at a cost of $4,000.

The present membership of this church is one hundred and forty-five. During the sixty-two years of its history it has had five pastors and twenty-six ruling elders.

New Concord Methodist Episcopal Church

In 1836, asmall class met in the school house at New Concord, with Andrew Magee, as Leader. They continued to meet in the school house until 1850, when they met in the College building.

New Concord Baptist Church

The first Pastor was Rev. William Rees, sucseeded by Rev's. William Spencer, Mr. Mc- Gowen, William Marz, B. Y. Seigtried, Ilugh Brown, Amos Pratt, R. H. Sedgwick, B. Allen,

Musxkineum CoLLeGE was chartered in 1837. Reverends Robert Wallace, Samuel Wilson, B. Waddle, D. D., Daniel McLane and Messrs. Andrew Lorimer, John Jamison, John McKinney, John Hull and William Finley were the incorporators. The College was founded in the interests of Christian education. Leading Christian men of all denominations in the community united their efforts to secure the education of young men designed for the ministry and other learned professions. In later years the privileges enjoyed by young men have been extended to young women.

The first building was destroyed by fire, but was soon rebuilt. In 1873 an addition 45x70 was erected in front of the old building. Both are now in good repair.

The number of students in attendance, at first small, has steadily increased. The catalogue number for the year ending June 22d, 1882, was 189. The Fall session of the present year marks a gain of eighteen over the same term of the preceding year. Between two and three hundred young men and women have graduated from this institution. About one hundred of these have entered the Christian ministry, and are now laboring both in this country and in foreign tands. Her Alumni are also well represented in the other professions. It is estimated that at least two thousand students have been in attendance during the forty-five years of her existence. It will be seen that Muskingum College has been closely inwrought into the life and prosperity of Muskingum and adjoining counties.

The following persons have served as Presidents of the College: Rev. B. Waddle, D. D., Rev. 8. Wilson, Rev. D. A. Wallace, D. D., LL. D., Rev. John Milligan, Rev. S. G. Irvine, D. D., Rev. S. McArthur, Rev. J. P. Lytle, D. D.

Until 1877 Muskingum College was simply a local college. At that date she was transferred to the care of the United Presbyterian Presbyteries of Muskingum and Mansfield. In October of 1882 the Synod of Ohio of the United Presbyterian Church voted to accept the care and control of the College. Her doors will, however, still be open to students of all denominations.

It is expected that the endowment of the College will be largely increased during 1883, enabling her to do more and better work than ever before.

Faculty Norwich Methodist Episcopal Church

The ''class"' from which this church sprang, was originally organized at the house of Martin McCloud, in Perry township, and when- Mr. McCloud, in 1827, moved to Union township, his house still continued to be the place of meeting. The first class was composed of Martin McCloud and wife, Phillip Richcreek and wife, Israel Jennings and wife, ''Father' Speck and wife, Mrs. R. Hardesty and two daughters, Thomas Cookston and wife, Lewis Virden and wife, William Jennings and wife, Rev. Manning Putnam, (a local preacher,) Mrs. Lloyd and two daughters, Enos Jennings and wife, Mrs. Passmore, Peter Bowers, Enoch Marple and wife, Sarah Self, and Delphi McCloud.

During 1829-30, a church, (brick, ) 30x40, was erected on lot fifty-one, in the town of Norwich, which stood until 1842, when it was taken down and a new brick structure, 40x60, erected in its stead.

Norwich Presbyterian Church

This church was organized October 27th, 1828, by Rev. James Arbuthnot, under authority granted by the Presbytery of Lancaster, Ohio. 'This organization was mainly composed of mem- _bers from the Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church. Its first pastor was Rev. James Arbuthnot, whose pastorate continued about two years. . The original Elders elected, were Robert Miller, John Jamison, John Wycoff, and William McLaughlin.

In August, 1831, a call was extended to Rev. Samuel Wilson, and he was installed pastor, April 5th, 1832. Mr. Wilson continued his pastorate until April 28th, 1868, a period of thirtysix years, when he resigned on account of ill health.

May 17th, 1870, Rev. N. C. Helfrich was called, and installed November 3d, 1870. The pastoral relation between Rev. Mr. Helfrich and his church, was dissolved in October, 1874.

Rev. Faris Brown became stated supply, September roth, 1875, and November 21st, 1876, was installed as pastor, which relation he still continues.

This congregation first worshiped in a small frame house, and in the year 1839, a brick meeting house, 45x65, was built at the west end of the town of Norwich, which stood until 1852, when it was replaced by the present frame structure. The following is a list of Elders, with date of installation : : 1828. Robert Miller, John Jamison, John Wycoff, William McLaughlin.

Norwich United Presbyterian Church

This church was organized June 8th, 1862, by a committee appointed by the Presbytery, consisting of Rev. G. W. Goudy and Elders Joseph Harper and Samuel Lee.

The original members were, Samuel Hadden and wife, and John, their son, Joseph White and Jane, his daughter, John Henderson and wife, with their sons, Clark and John A., and Julia, their daughter, William Walker and wife, Mrs. Ray, and Richard, her son, James Hastings and wife, John M. Lorimer and wife, Mary and Jane McWhorter, Robert Young and wife, with his son, William, and daughters Eliza, Mary Ann and Nancy, William Wilson and wife, and daughter, Mary, Dr. McCandless and wife, Matthew Cherry and wife, S. P. Moore, Mary Ann Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Robert Moore and wife, and John J. White and wife.

The first pastor was Rev. J. R. Boyd, who was succeeded by Dr. Dayid Paul. Rev. S. M Hutcheson served a short time, and was succeeded by Rev. W.S. Harper. In June, 1878, Rey. E. A. Huston was installed as pastor, and still officiates.

In 1863, a church was erected on lot i1, in the town of Norwich; a frame, 40x50, at a cost of $1,800. Maximum number of members in 1879, was one hundred and nine.

But a man suited to the time and occasion, who understood the needs of the hour, and strove to fill a place that, without him, would have been vacant, in the history of civilization.

In the year 1820, a Presbyterian Church was erected on the southeast quarter of section ten, on the land of John Reasoner, near the old Wheeling road. This church was a frame building, forty feet square, and two stories high. One of these stories was:designed for, and used as an academy, where the youth of the community might receive more than a common school education. This was the pioneer academy of eastern Muskingum. Who the teachers were, or how long it continued in operation, is not now known.

We next find an academy in operation in the town of New Concord, under the superintendence of Rev. A. M. Black. This school was successfully conducted until it finally ultimated in Muskingum College.

Muskingum College

This institution occupies a beautiful location just north of the village of New Concord, and overlooks that town. The original act of incorporation is dated March 13th, 1837.

dle, Daniel McLane, Andrew Lorimer, John Jamison. John McKinney, John Hull, and William Findley. The ground for the building was deeded to this Board and their successors in oftice, by William and Janet Findley, May roth, 1838.

The tirst building wrs erected during the summer of 1838. It was of brick, forty feet square, two stories high, and cost $2,479. This building was nearly destroyed by fire in 1850, and was immediately rebuilt - the college classes reciting elsewhere, in the interim.

In 1874, a new front was erected, forty by seventy. making the entire building seventy by ninety - large enough to accommodate one hundred and fifty students - this last addition costing ten thousand dollars.

Seventeen students are reported to have been in attendance the first year. During the présent vear, one hundred and forty-eight have received instruction, with an average attendance of about one hundred. Besides the usual college curriculum, this institution includes Hebrew, and pays special attention to music - both vocal and instrumental. The Scientific Course now requires four years of study, and the Classical, six years.

Until 1876, the college was under the fostering care of the several denominations represented in the community. At that time, the entire management of the college was transferred to a Board of Trustees, nominated by the Presbyteries of Muskingum and Mansfield, of the United Presbyterian Church. Since then, twelve thousand dollars of an endowment fund has been raised, and it is confidently expected that it will soon, by additional endowments, be placed upon a firm financial basis.

Muskingum College has been fortunate in its location, The people of New Concord, and vicinity, are stanch, earnest friends of education, while the morals and intelligence of the community are above the average.

New Concord Graded School

This building was erected during 1878-79. It is a neat and tasty structure; material, brick, size, 40x70 feet. Two stories high, and containing four rooms, with a seating capacity for two hundred pupils; cost $8,000; attendance last term, one hundred and twenty. Principal, J. K. Watson. Wages paid, fifty dollars per month for the Principal, and thirty, and twenty-tive dollars, respectively, to the assistants.

Norwich graded school is located near the Methodist Episcopal Church. The building is frame, two stories high, twenty-four by fortyeight feet; built in 1874. James M. Starrett, Principal. Wages, two dollars per day.

Society Of Inquiry

_ Norwich Society of Inquiry was organized in January, 1878, and, as its title indicates, is one of research into the hidden mysteries of science, art, and historic lore.

The first postoffice in the township was established at the house of Colonel John Reynolds, on the Wheeling road. He was succeeded by John McDonald (familiarly known as *'Fox McDonald'').

When the stage route was transferred to the National road, Mr. McDonald moved to Norwich, and kept the first office in that town. He lived,at the time, on lot nineteen, where the store of C. C. Taylor now stands, in which the present postoftice is kept.

Mr. McDonald was succeeded by Lewis Virden, he, by Horatio Chandler. Then came Hezekiah Maxfield, and John Tudor, tollowed by L. D. Stone, 1861, and Dr. J. L. Geyer, in 1876.

A postoffice was established at New Concord, in 1829, with Joseph McKinney as postmaster. He held the office sixteen years, and was succeeded in 1845, by William McClain, who was succeeded by Noble Kelly. Ichabod Drummon followed him, in 1860, and held the office until May, 1864, when Joseph McKinney, the present incumbent was appointed.

New Concord office, is a ''money order office," and does a yearly postoffice order: business of $20,000. It ranges in ''class four." Comrpensation, $400. ;

After him came Dr's. Hull, Holsten, Berry. Matthew McConnell, James D. Cunningham, James Bell, and George W. Pringle. These practiced in New Concord. Bell lett in 1869. and Pringle died in 1876.

When Norwich was laid out in 1827,Samuel and James Lorimer, brothers, built in the town, and practicedthere. Samuel died in 1833, and James in 1834. Dillon and Strahl were also early practioners.

Dr. A. B. McCandless came in 1857, and left Dr. L. H. Gratigny came in 1860, and left the same year. Dr. Henry McCreary came in 1866, and is still practicing at New Concord.

Dr. Joseph Moorehead, and John Law, were practicing in Norwich, in 1867, but Moorehead left in 1867, and Law in 1868. Dr's. Mitchell and Shillito, also practiced in Norwich.

Military

Joseph McCune served as a Captain in the war of 1812, and distinguished himself as an aid to General Harrison. He died at Otsego, Monroe township, in 1838. :

Isaiah Carr was also a soldier of 1812. He - still resides on the old homestead, on the northeast quarter of section five, in the enjoyment of the proper uses of his mental faculties.

Samuel Cummins, another veteran of 1812, resides on the National road, one mile west of the town of New Concord, and at the age of eightynine, still lingers on the shores of time, waiting for ''taps."

Agriculture

Union township is essentially an agricultural district, but has no organized agricultural society. The surface is comparatively smooth and easy of cultivation. The soil is: productive, and the farmers in good circumstances.

Fine wool is now the principal article of export. Several fine flocks ot sheep are to be found ; among them are Hadden's, Perkins', and Wortman's.

The rearing of thoroughbred short-horned cattle, has also received considerable attention. Mr. James Perkins having on his farm quite a number of '' pedigreed and registered' animals.

The township is drained on the east by Crooked Creek, on the south by White Eyes Creek, and on the west by Self's Run. Springs are numerous, there being no less than one hundred and twenty-five springs in the township, and water for stock abundant. The streams, however, are small, not affording any available water power.

The prevailing kinds of timber are: White - oak, black oak, red oak, rock oak, walnut, butternut, poplar, hickory, maple, elm, gum, beech, buckeye, sycamore, cherry, sassafras, iron wood, dog wood, and mulberry.

In 1837, on the site of the present merchandise store of H. H. Wilkins, Mr. Speer, a native of Guernsey county, opened out as a dealer in boots, shoes, clothing, and a general line of merchandise. New Concord then boasted but a small population; but the little country store around the corner prospered, and its proprietor gradually accumulated a share of this world's goods. In 1855 he bought a third enterprise, the old Finley & Patterson grist mill, of which he became sole owner in 1860. He is still in active business, and justly ranks among the most progressive business men of the place. Since 1859, with the exception of time spent in the United States service, as private and ranking officer, S. Speer, son of the above pioneer, has been associated with the house, in which he became a partner in 1870,

THE above-named gentleman ranks among the leading merchants of New Concord. In 1875 he located at the intersection of Main and Liberty streets, having purchased a half interest with the late Henry C. McDonald. Together they continued in a general merchandise business until 1878, when Mr. Wilkin purchased the entire stock. From this time until the destructive conflagration of August, 1881, quite an extensive business was transacted. The building formerly occupying the present site was a substantial frame, uninsured, and the fire proved a trying ordeal for the young aspirant for commercial honors. Immediately afterward, Mr. Wilkins completed on the site of the ruins the present establishment. Here, in his new and commodious quarters, he solicits the continued patronage of his old customers, and kindly welcomes the new.

Source changes here: from Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Muskingum County, Ohio; Embracing an Authentic and Comprehensive Account of the Chief Events in the History of the County and a Record of the Lives of Many of the Most Worthy Families and Individuals, published 1892; 5,052 words in this source stream.

Union Township

PRIOR to the opening of the Zane Trace, there were Indian settlements in the township, notably one on a creek in the southern part of the township, called after a Shawanees chief, White Eyes creek, and another camp was located in section five. The names of earliest settlers in the township will probably ever remain unknown, as many of them, after a short residence, pushed on still farther into the wilds of the great west. A portion of the township, the southeast quarter, was reserved by the government for school lands, and many of these first comers being unable to purchase, squatted on the school lands. Among those who occupied school lands between 1803 and 1806 were Henry Hardesty, Peter Monroe, Henry Hardy, Wm. Newland and Mr. Mullen. About the same time several families came from Pennsylvania and located in the northeast part of the township. Thomas Warren located in section 13 on the old Zane road, opening his house for accommodation of the public in 1804. John Self took up land on the creek that bears his name in 1805. Judge David Findley coming in 1806 purchased land of Henry Reasoner, who had located in section one in 1804. Samuel Wilson selected the northwest quarter of section 11 in 1806, and in 1807 John Haddon settled on section 8. Wm. Hunter, Robert Walker and Andrew Lorimer located on sections 13 and 18, while Ralph Hardesty took a portion of section 14. From 1806 to 1815 the

Among the pioneers between 1815 and 1835 were Samuel Conners, Wm. McClellan, David and John Conners, Thomas Pearce, John and Alexander Brown, Samuel McCormick, John Barrett, Richard and Isaac Storey, David Stormont, Allen Black, John McLeod, Abraham Haines, Robert Buchannan, David Sinsabaugh, James Caldwell, John McClure, Billy McClure, George Miller, John and Moses Riley and John Jamison.

New Concord was a requirement of the days of its organization. The land upon which it was located was first settled by Henry Reasoner in 1804. Judge David Findley in 1806 purchased the tract of Mr. Reasoner and cleared and cultivated the land. In 1827 the establishing of the national road through his place prompted Judge P'indley to lay out a town, which was acomplished March 24, 1828. The location of the town of Concord and the description of the plat is recorded as follows: Plat of the town of Concord, on the first section of township number one, of the fifth range, U. S. military district, in Muskingum county, and state of Ohio. The lots are all four poles in front and twelve poles back, each containing forty-eight square perches. The main street is eighty feet wide, all other streets are forty-one feet wide, and the alleys are one perch wide. The proprietor gives one lot on Second street for a meeting house and literary purposes. An addition to the town of Concord was platted in Sept., 1849 by James Findley and two, Irwin's and Speer's, were platted in 1855.

The opening of the National road was the signal for the transfer of the bulk of travel from the old Zane Trace to the new road which, being better constructed and better kept, made traveling easier and less expensive. A line of stage coaches was transferred to the new road, and to accomodate travelers and freight haulers, taverns sprang up along the road. Many of those who had formerly lived on the old Zane Trace now changed their residence to the new route. Among those who moved was Joseph McKinney, who had a blacksmith shop on the old Zane Trace. He opened the first shop in Concord. His place was the spot where the Reformed Presbyterian church now stands. Concord was made a stage station or rather a relay station, where the six stage horses driven at full speed from Zanesville, the nearest station west, were exchanged for fresh horses. The stage horses were supplied by Joseph McKinney, who also changed the mails, he being the first postmaster at Concord, appointed 1819.

At this time the present flourishing village had but few houses. There was a house on the site of Gault's drug store, one where Mr. Herdman's residence is located. Mrs. Drummond's house was built about that time. These houses were all frame, the pioneers having so far progressed that even then the day of the log house was passed. Judge David Findley's large brick house was erected in 1828. It was the first brick house in Concord. It was used as a tavern and is still standing and apparantly almost as good as new. It is now known as the Wilson hotel. Wrn. Galligher kept the first, and at the time of which we write the only store, in the building now occupied by Wm. Given and sons as a meat market. A achool house occupied the site where the meeting-house of the United Presbyterian church now stands. The second store in the village was that of Thomas McGiffin, who kept a general store. A Mr. Rogers kept astore between 1835 ar*b 1840.

was a healthy, sure growth. A religious element pervaded the entire township and Concord was in 1835 the site of three churches. Education was demanded by the children of the pioneers, and a more thorough and extensive education than could be obtained in the common schools of the time, was greatly desired; hence we find in 1835 a number of those most interested seeking the establishment of a college in Concord. A meeting of the citizens of Concord and vicinity was called on July 9,

1836. After considerable discussion relative to the needs of such an institution and the advantages to be derived from it, the meeting adjourned until the afternoon of August 10, of same year. Upon this latter date a constitution and by-laws for the management of an academy were adopted and a board of directors chosen, consisting of seven members; and at a subsequent meeting the board of managers completed and Mr. Andrew B. Black was made principal of the academy. In the autumn of the same year the school was opened with very encouraging prospects. This academy was successor to the Pleasant Hill academy, conducted in the Presbyterian church, one mile south of this village. The board taking into consideration the fact that New Concord was situated in the heart of a fertile country, thickly inhabited by a people favorable to literary pursuits, and quite remote from any literary institution, its ease of access- being on the National road - called a meeting of the citizens with a view to petition the Legislature to grant them a charter for a college. As a result of this action a petition was prepared and placed in the hands of Honorable David Chambers, a member of the house of representatives. This petition being presented to the legislature, was favorably considered and in March, 1837, an act was passed incorporating Muskingum college, to be under the management of nine trustees, with power to increase the number to fifteen. The board immediately took steps to procure grounds and to erect a college building. At the meeting of the board, June 14,

1837, a faculty was chosen, consisting of Rev. Benjamin Waddle, president; Andrew M. Black, professor of languages; Pdisha McCoy, professor of mathematics. During the first year the educational work of the college was conducted in a rented building, while in the meantime a college building was in process of erection and was so rapidly completed as to allow class room work to be conducted in the beginning of the second college year. The energy, perseverance and ability with which these men were actuated and impelled is de- serving of the highest admiration. The building was rapidly pushed to completion and afforded ample facilities for college work at that time. Rut on the fourth of March, 1851, a destructive fire occurred, which partially destroyed this building, and on the thirteenth of the same month the board met to take measures to repair the damage done. At this meeting a committee of citizens waited on the board and tendered to them a sum of money sufficient to repair the building.

In 1873 an additional building was erected on the front of the old one, which greatly improved its appearance, adding to its space and convenience, and affording the needed additional room and facilities for educational work. From the beginning of the college to 1877 it was entirely under local management, and supported largely by local patronage; and in order to advance its utility, a meeting was held on July 6, 1877, at which it was deemed expedient for the interests of the institution to extend its patronage, and with this end in view, they proffered the college to the control of two presbyteries of the United Presbyterian church, viz: Mansfield and Muskingum. After some consideration on the part of the presbyteries, the offer was accepted by them, and a board elected to take the oversight of the institution. This board met and organized August 28, 1877, and took steps to secure a change in the charter adapted to the new relations. During the succeeding five years this denomination continued its oversight of the college, and took steps to enlarge the field of its patronage by tendering the institution to the United Presbyterian synod of Ohio, which was cheerfully accepted; and since that time an established and uniform success has attended its operations. The college is at the present day under the management of the Synod of Ohio, and the board of trustees consists of twenty-one members (elected by the synod, ) and the president of the college, who is a member ex-officio. The expenses of the college are met in part by a light tuition, collected from the students, and by a partial endowment. Special efforts are now being made to largely increase the endowment fund and greatly enlarge the facilities of this institution. Upon its first inception the management confined its privilages to young gentlemen only, and so operated until March 20, 1854, at which time its management became conscious that the spirit of thetimes demanded a change, and young women were admitted to the privileges of the institution on the same conditions as young men. The board has never had cause to regret this action, for the result has been highly satisfactory both in attendance and in its beneficial results to both sexes. While the young women have for the rfiost part taken the scientific course, yet many have taken a full classical cousc, and in point of ability and scholarship have shown themselves able to compete with the young men in all educational work. There are two courses of study, the classical and scientific. The former requires six years of earnest work. It has recently been enlarged, and now compares favorably with the curicula of other institutions. The student, upon completing this course, receives the degree of B. A. The scientific course requires five years of study. Eight terms of Latin are embraced in it; Greek and Hebrew are omitted. All the sciences, and the greater part of mathematics of the classical course are required in this course. Its completion entitles the graduate to the degree of B. S. The college has had twelve presidents. The first was Rev. Benjamin Waddle, D. D., who was largely instrumental in originating the institution. Mr. Waddle was twice president - first one year, and then for three years. Two of the twelve, Rev. J. P. Lytle, D. D., and Rev. H. P. McClerkin, D. D., served one year each as president pro tern. The longest presidency was held by Rev. David Paul, D. D., from 1865 to 1879. Dr. Paul was chiefly instrumental is raising the college to the favorable position it occupies to-day in the rank of educational institutions. The present incumbent, Rev. John D. Irons, D. D., has occupied the position for three years, and his efforts have been crowned with the highest success in placing every department of this institution upon the most healthful basis, making it to-day one of the most vitalizing and prosperous educational institutions in the state. The alumni of this college comprise men who are prominent to-day in the ministry, in the field of letters, and among the professions and business men in various sections of the Union. The following are the members of the present board of trustees: Term expires 1891 - Rev. W. II.

Rix's Mills, Ohio; Rev. J. S. McMunn, Mechanicstown, Ohio; Rev. A. E. Brownlee, Martin's Ferry, Ohio; W. W. McKinney, Esq., New Concord, Ohio. Officers of the board: Rev.

J. P. Lytle, D. D., Sago, Ohio, president; Henry McCreary, M. D., New Concord, Ohio, secretary and treasurer. The executive committee are: Rev. J. D. Irons, D. D., chairman; Rev. J.

E. Sankey, and D. E. Ralston, Esq. The faculty comprises men of eminence in scienceand literature, and will compare favorably in their accomplishments and as educators with those of any of the prominent educational institutions of the country. The faculty of the college are: Rev. John D. Irons, D. D., president, and professor of mental, moral and political science, and Hebrew; Rev. J. A. Gray. A. M., professor of mathematics and logic; T. H. Paden, A. M., professor of Latin and Greek languages; John McBurney, A. M., Ph. D., professor of natural sciences; Eva M. Grier,- A. M., professor of English language and literature; Jesse Johnson, A. M., professor of Hebrew and Greek; Mary Miller, A. M., teacher of French and German. Music - J. W. Brown, organ and harmony ; Dora E. Martin, piano and voice; Nellie Harris, B. S. teacher in art. Officers of the faculty: John D. Irons, president; T. H. Paden, secretary. This institution issues an annual catalogue, which will be forwarded upon request, and commends itself to the consideration of young women and young men in all sections of the country, to which we refer, for the liberal terms of tuition, etc. The advantages of this place are more fully set forth in the general articles upon the village.

The alumni of the college number 282 persons, 210 of whom are males, 72 females. Of these, 125 are ministers, icofthe alumni are foreign missionaries, one of whom is supported by the students in college. Among those who have graduated from Muskingum college who have attained distinction and prominence, we find W. R. Harper, Ph. D., president of Chicago university; W. G. Morehead, D. D., Professor of Theological seminary, Xenia, Ohio; D. A. McClennahan, D. D., Professor in Allegheny Theological seminary, Pa.; H. T. Sudduth, A. M., Professor in State university, Athens, Ohio; W. O. Thompson, A. M., president of Longmont college, Longmont, Colorado; T. A. Smith, Ph. D., professor in Beloit college, Beloit, Wis.

Two societies composed of students of the college, exert a strong refining and moral influence on the young people of the town. These societies are the Young Men's Christian association and the Young Women's Christian association. Of the former, R. L. Warrick is president; J. D. Chisholm, vice-president; J. H. White, secretary; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; H.

F. Lyle, corresponding secretary. Of the last named association, Miss Ida Carter is president and Miss Lydia Finley is secretary. The college has a fine orchestra, composed of students and teachers.

In 1878 the New Concord graded school building was erected. It is a handsome twostory brick structure 40x70 feet in dimensions, containing four rooms with a seating capacity for 200 pupils. The citizens of New Concord point with just pride to this beautiful structure where the youth have all the comforts and advantages of more pretentious institutions. Prof. A. H. McCulloch is the superintendent, and is assisted by an able corps of teachers.

The musical department in Muskingum college affords exceptional opportunities for the cultivation of this art, and the people of Concord invariably avail themselves of the advantages thus afforded. Scarcely a home may be found in the village where there are sons or daughters old enough to study music, but there is found a piano, organ, or stringed instrument. Musical entertainments are of frequent occurrence, and the refining and elevating influence of music is here strongly demonstrated. In addition to the music of the homes, the town supports an excellent musical organization in the New Concord Silver Cornet band, which was organized in 1888. The band is composed of twelve members. W. I. Miller is the leader; J. W Ramsey, president; A. A. McBride, secretary; Hugh Given, treasurer.

In New Concord are now twenty-two business houses, saw mill, flour mill, planing mill, cigar factory, one bank, two wagon shops, three blacksmith shops, one livery stable, two coal yards and two hotels, United States express, Western Union telegraph.

The postoffice was established in 1829. Joseph McKinney was the first postmaster; he held the office until 1845, when William Mc- Lain was appointed. Noble Kelly, Ichabod Drummond and Joseph McKinney have had the office since that time. Jacob Herdman is the present postmaster, and is assisted by his daughter.

feet front by 104 feet in depth. The basement is used for the fire department and is fully equipped with ladders, buckets and truck. The ground floor contains two of the finest business rooms in the village, besides the mayor's office and justice of the peace court room. The second floor contains a fine public hall with a seating capacity of 1,800 people, besides the council chamber and library room. The third floor is arranged as a banqueting hall, with kitchen, pantry, etc., attached The building cost the village $16,000, and is a credit to the town and county. To erect this building the village issued thirty-two bonds of $500 each, which when sold yielded $16,240.90.

The Baptist church in New Concord was organized September 26, 1829, and the meetings were first held in Norwich. Revs. William Reese, William Spencer, William Magowers and others performed much ministerial work extending over the county and into regions beyond. A small house of worship was built in New Concord about 1836, the first in the new town. The present meeting house was erected in i860. Some of the families that were connected with the church in its early history were Josiah Miller's, James Tulk's, Stephen Williams', Fraser Storer's, Levi Hughes', Thomas Smith's, Reuben Case's and others residing in the country. The first pastor was William Reese. A number of young men have entered the ministry, and several of them were students in Muskingum college. Of these E. O. Town, Enoch Tilden, A. W. Hall, James Herbert, C. N. Harford, W. H. McKinney, A. L. Wilson and several others have been long known for their work's sake. The present pastor is B. Y. Siegfried, who continues in active service, and has been a successful minister for over fifty years, more than half of that time in Muskingum and Guernsey counties.

The Associate Reformed Congregation was organized about 1812. The first church building was erected about one mile north of New Concord. The congregation continued for many years to worship and bury their dead near the same location. Eventually the place of worship was changed to the village of New Concord. A large frame church building was erected, which is still used. The first pastor of the Associate Reformed congregation then called Crooked creek, was Rev. David Proudfit, who was installed pastor April 21, 1824, who served until his death. Mr.Johnson Welsh was ordained and installed as pastor April 22, 1835. Later Benjamin Waddle became pastor of Crooked creek, Salt creek, Lebanon and East Union.

About 1852 a movement was set on foot to organize an Associate congregation in New Concord. The organization was effected by the election of Hon. Samuel Bigger, Mr. Law, R. R. Moore, Elijah Coulter and Robert Harper as elders. For some time Rev. Samuel McArthur, who was then president of Muskingum college, acted as pastor. Rev. James M. Henderson became pastor in 1855 and was pastor at the time of the union of the Associate and Associate Reformed churches in 1858. In 1859 he resigned this charge in order that the congregation might unite with the Associate Reformed congregation, which had been vacated by Dr. Waddle in 1858. The United congregation is now known as the United Presbyterian congregation of New Concord. Its first pastor was Rev. J. C. Minich. He continued in charge from February i860, to IAbruary 1876. Since July 1876, Rev. David Paul, D. D., has been pastor. The membership is about 330.

The first step toward the organization of New Concord Presbyterian church was occasional preaching by traveling ministers who, as theyjourneyedeast arid west, filled an occasional appointment. In the year 1804 the Rev. John W right, going on a journey , lodged with M r. J oh n Reasoner, in New Concord. An appointment was made for him and an encouraging congregation was gathered and services were held near the present site of Mr. Reasoner's barn and for a time such services were usually held at Mr. Reasoner's house or in the vicinity. The church is supposed to have been organized by Rev. James Robinson, in the year 1818. Mr. Robinson was succeeded in October 1819 by' Rev. Samuel Baldridge. At this time preaching services were held in a tent near Pleasant Hill spring, in barns and in private houses. During Mr. Baldridge's ministry, a frame church building was erected forty feet square, with a second story to be used as an academy'. In 1823 Mr. Baldridge left for the west.

Rev. Mr. Clark held communion services in 1825, and Rev. Mr. McMillan in 1826. In the year 1827, Rev. James Arbuthnot was ordained and installed pastor of the churches of Pleasant Hill and Salt Creek. Mr. Arbuthnot had charge of these churches from the spring of 1827 to the fall of 1830. On Oct. 27, 1828, he organized the church of Norwich, of which he also became pastor. Rev. Samuel Wilson was ordained and installed over the united churches of Pleasant Hill, Norwich, and Salt Creek, April 5, 1832, giving to each one third of his time, and receiving from each, one third of his salary of $400. This arrangement continued for seven years, when Pleasant

Hill and Norwich applied each for one third of his time, and Mr. Wilson was released from Salt Creek. This pastorate continued for thirty six years and was interrupted only by the infirmities of age and failing health of the pastor.

In the years 1849-50, this congregation rebuilt and enlarged their house of worship. After Mr. Wilson's resignation, Rev. N. C. Helfrich became pastor of the united charge. His labors in Pleasant Hill church began on the second Sabbath of June, 1870, and on the 10th day of November he was installed. His labors with this church terminated October 25, 1874. Rev. Faris Brown became stated supply of the churches of New Concord and Norwich, September 10, 1875, and November 21, 1876, he was installed pastor of these churches, which relation still continues. In the year 1872, a new site having been obtained in the village of New Concord, a new church building was erected thereon, at a cost of about $4,000. The name of the church was changed from Pleasant Hill to New Concord, by act of Presbytery. During the present pastorate of fifteen and a half years, 324 members have been received to its communion, 141 persons have been baptized, 38 adults, 103 infants. Its present membership is 200.

The Reformed Presbyterian church, of New Concord was known as Salt Creek, until 1871. The first Covenanter known to settlers in this vicinity was Mathew Mitchell, who came with his family from ''the forks of the Yough" in Pennsylvania in 1804. Later came John Jamison, Wm. Robinson and Samuel McCutcheon. Their families constituted a praying society and unfurled the banner of the Covenant. They were occasionally visited by Revs. John Black and Matthew Williams. In the summer of 1814, Rev. Robert Wallace, who is the father of Covenanterism in Ohio began missionary work principally at Utica and Chillicothe. In 1815 he providentially met Neal McNaughton, at a hotel in Zanesville, who took him to his home, where Mr. Wallace preached the following Sabbath. The society continued to grow under his occasional ministrations until the organization of the congregation in June, 1821, by the election of John Auld and John Jamison, ruling elders. The communion was soon afterward dispersed and Mr. Wallace was assisted by the Rev. Charles B. McKee. The services were held in the woods near the farm of Mr. McCutcheon, and the following forty members communed at the first sacrement: John and

Cunningham; Eleanor Forsythe; Alexander and Mrs. George; Mathew, Sr., Mathew, Jr., and Mrs. Mitchell; Samuel, Isabel, Sr., Isabel, Jr., James and Anna McCutcheon; Neal and Mary McNaughton; Wm. Robinson; Joseph, Ann, James and Jane Sterrett; Thomas, Mary, Sr., Mary, Jr., William, James and Archibald Stevenson; David and Mary Sims; Jacob and Anna Wortman. All these are now dead. John Auld, John Jamison, David and Benjamin Wallace, David Hawthorne, Richard and Thomas McGee, Archibald and Wm. Stevenson, Walter McCrea, David Stormont, William and Thomas Wylie, John Gibson, William Forsythe, William Speer, William Elliot, Thomas Stewart, John Taylor, James McCartney, Samuel Mitchell, James R. Willson, Hugh Patterson, and John C. Robb.

In October, 1823, Mr. Wallace was installed pastor, and also preached at Jonathan's Creek, Muskingum and Wills Creek. Mr. Wallace died in July, 1849. In October, 1850, the Rev. Hugh P. McClurken was installed, and remained almost interruptedly for thirty-two years, and until his release in October, 1882. The Rev. James M. Faris, the present pastor was installed July 3, 1884.

In 1880 Mr. C. B. McKee established the Weekly Enterprise which met the encouragement it merited. In the spring 1881 the present editor and proprietor, Mr. J. H. Aikin, purchased a half interest, and in December he bought out his partner and assumed entire control. Th e Enterprise is a seven column folio, is a spicy, newsy paper devoted entirely to local interests and local news, and enjoys a good patronage.

The opening of the National Road brought many new settlers to Union township. This fact prompted William Harper to plat a town in 1827, which was incorporated six years later. This town, Norwich, is in section seven, the National Road being the main street of the village. Probably the first house erected on the site of the village was a boarding house or tavern erected by Samuel McCloud. After ward a hotel was kept by Reuben Whittaker. A store, probably the first in the place, was kept by Thos. Maxfield.

The schools of Norwich are graded. This system was adopted in 1884. At this date a new building was erected at a cost of $2,300. The building contains two rooms, but is considered inadequate to the necessities of the fapidly increasing attendance of pupils. The

The United Presbyterian church of Norwich was organized about i860, by members of churches of this denomination who were joined by dissenting members of other churches in Norwich. Some of the pastors were Rev. Boyd, Rev. Hutchinson, Rev. Ur. Paul, Rev. Huston, Rev. Dr. Spencer and the present pastor, Rev. Wyatt. A meeting house was erected shortly after the organization of the church. The site selected was the north side of Main street near the center of Norwich. The building is frame and with the grounds on which it stands is worth 582,500. It has a seating capacity of 300.

The Norwich Presbyterian church was organized October 27, 1828, by Rev. James Arbuthnot, under authority granted by Presbytery of Lancaster, September 30, 1828.

Its church building is located on an eminence at the west end of the village of Norwich. This organization was mainly constituted of members from the Pleasant Hill Presbyterian church. Its first pastor was Rev. James Arbuthnot. This pastorate continued for about two years. The original elders, elected at its organization, were Robert Miller, John Jamison, John Wycoff and Wm. McLoughlin. Its first trustees were Robert Miller, John Mc- Curdy, John Wycoff, Peter Galligher, John Crawford and Benjamin Wortman. In August 29, 1831, a call was made for the services of Rev. Samuel Wilson, which was accepted by him and he was ordained and installed April 5, 1832. This congregation worshiped in a small frame house, perhaps 25x35 feet, with a rough platform for a pulpit. In the year 1839 they built a brick meeting-house 64x45, which in a brief spa,ce after being occupied, was free from all debt. In the year 1852 the brick church was superseded by the present frame building. Mr. Wilson continued to be pastor of this church until April 28, 1868, when on account of failing health the pastoral relation was dissolved, making a pastorate of thirty-six years and twenty-three days. During this pastorate, about 700 persons were received to the communion of the churches of Pleasant Hill and Norwich. Of these nearly 500 were on profession of faith and about 200 by letter from other churches. About 600 persons were baptized ; of these nearly 500 were infants and nearly 125 adults. The present membership is 186.

Duncan's P^alls Presbyterian Church was organized May 20, 1852, by a committee acting under authority of the Presbytery of Zanesville. The members of this committee were Rev. M. A. Hays, Rev. W. M. Fergusort and Elder Samuel Milhous. The congregation organized with nineteen members, seventeen of whom held letters from other congregations; the remaining two were received after examination. The first deacons were James Irwin, John B. Peairs and Joseph Peairs. The first pastor was Wm. M. Grimes, who served the church for three years and was succeeded by Rev. M. Livingston, whose pastorate continued only one year. John Kelly was the third in charge of the congregation and remained with the church six years. The next, Henry Fulton, remained with the congregation longest of any pastor, - six and a half years. Then followed Martin L. Donohue, two and a half years; David M. Williamson, six years; James A. Baldridge, four years; and in 1887 Pidward W. Brown, the present pastor, who has ministered to the spiritual wants of the church continuously since that date. Immediately after its organization in 1852 a meeting-house was erected at a cost of $2,000. The church has a membership of ninety.