Valley Township (part 2 of 2)

" The large sandstone rocks are generally found near the top of the hills, and frequently below them is a kind of shelly soapstone, often impregnated strongly with alum; then layers of freestone, say ten inches to a foot in thickness, which will, in time, be uncommonly valuable. In some instances large flat stones of two inches thick, suitable for paving, are found. It is under these the coal generally presents itelf - though not iu all cases. I am fully persuaded that there is slate in this vicinity, of a hardness sufficient to cover a house.

" I know a place, also, where thin fine stone, say from one-third to one-half inch in thickness, can be found that could be dressed for the same purpose - it would be worked profitably were it in England.

""Alum, salt-peter and copperas are known to exist in many places. These I will endeavor to get full information of by the time you visit us. I believe I could introduce you to a spring that possesses all the virtues of the Saratoga.

" Here is also a fire-clay, when dry perfectly white, and apparently free from any impure admixture. It does not appear to possess the virtue of marl. I think fine earthenware could be made of it.

" In short, Nature has been so bountiful in this part of the country that we know not yet how to appreciate the value. A week's research of a few scientific men would discover more than all that is yet known. I have always been of the opinion, and daily experience tends to confirm it, that this will be in a very few years the richest section of the State of Ohio. These hills were not placed here without design, nor without their uses. Man has not yet found out their value. We merely stir a little of their surface with no enterprise to go farther, but the time is not far distant when all our lands will be explored, and these hills which have so long been considered as of no value, and not worth paying taxes for, will be the most carefully sought. Excuse this hasty and unconnected communication.

Mr. Knight had been in correspondence with Mr. Hildreth over two years previous to this date, back in 1832, and had been strenuous in his efforts to get a few scientific men and geologists to thoroughly examine the countr\T around. He had divined its wealth and he wished for a full exploration to test his belief. Whether Prof. Hildreth came and examined the country or not, as this letter seems to carry out the idea that he promised to do, we know not, but it was nut long after this that the country began to attract attention in regard to its coal deposits and its iron ores and fire-clay, etc. This brought forward the canal project to ship this coal, and this, having been started and every prospect of its being completed in a few years, brought capitalists who largely invested in the coal lands.

Canal Completed

On the completion of the canal in 1840 an efficient means of transportation was offered and Nelsonville was soon transformed into an active and growing mining town. While mining and shipping coal was a new business it was engaged in by almost every one who owned land or was able to lease mines, but on a small scale, as the modern facilities for extensive mining were not known, or if known could n<>t lie afforded. Of course the completion of the canal was the placing of Nelsonville upon a secure foundation.

The mining operations began to increase largely and rapidly, and it was not many years before it passed into the hands of capitalists who could combine and carry out larger business interests.

The first coal put to use in Nelsonville was taken from the river bed, but the use was very limited, being confined almost entirely to the blacksmith shops. Two wagon loads of this river coal were hauled to Columbus in April, 1830, the first being a six-horse load, fifty-eight bushels, sold by James Knight to Gill and Greer, of Columbus, at four cents a bushel, delivered. But little coal was taken to market until the canal was finished, when it began to be mined and shipped in small quantities, although a bank had been opened on the north side of Johnson's Hill to supply the local demand, which is believed to be the first mine opened in the valley.

Coal Operators

Soon after the location of the Hocking Valley Canal Eastern capitalists and others of our own State made extensive purchases of land along the line of the canal from Lick Run to Chauncey. Among the most extensive purchasers were Thomas Ewing and Samuel F. Yinton, who shortly afterward associated with themselves Nicholas Biddle and Elihu Chauncey, of Philadelphia, under the name of Ewing, Vinton & Co. The firm made an opening for coal about the time of the completion of the canal to Nelsonville. Their mine was located in the hillside on the Nelsonville seam of coal, at the Dorr Run canal basin, on what is now the west end of the incorporated village of Nelsonville.

Shortly after the mine of Biddle, Ewing & Vinton was opened another opening by Fuller & Walker (James Fuller and A. B. Walker, of Athens,) was made a little further up the river. Then C. Fay, John Crothers, C. Steenrod, Launcelot Scott. J. F. Somers and L. Steenrod were found among the pioneer miners of the valley. Their mines were situated on both sides of the flocking River, at Nelsonville, and the coal was hauled in wagons from the mouth of the mines to the canal, dumped on the wharf and loaded on the boats with wheelbarrows.

Steenrod & Scott operated in what is known as the old Steenrod works, just below the village. They were in p irtnership, but soon after dissolved, Steenrod keeping the old works and Scott opening new mines in what is now known as Robbin's Hill. These mines were successfully worked by Mr. Scott for a number of years when, on his death, the business passed into the hands of Mr. L. D. Poston, a son-in-law, who followed it up on a more extended scale. Among the more prominent early operators were also Mr. Mathew Yanwormer, of Boston, who conducted a mine just back of the village, and Dr. Robert Fulton, who operated across the river in what was afterward known as Brooks's mines. The completion of the C. & H. Y. Railway gave another great impetus to the coal trade in the valley, and consequently added much to the business and growth of Nelsonville. Since the village has been until recently dependent upon the operations in coal, and its growth virtually governed by such operations.it is deemed proper to trace, in a brief way, a history of the business of some ot the leading enterprises as identical with the growth of the village. Mr. W. B. Brooks, though a resident of Columbus, has done much to assist the growth of Nelsonville and secure the development of its natural wealth. He came to Nelsonville in 1859 and, with Mathew Yanwormer, under the style of Yanwormer & Brooks, purchased 300 acres of land all across the river from the town. They opened mines and conducted the coal trade on a large scale until June, 1860, when Yanwormer withdrew and the business passed under the control of W. B. Brooks.

These mines were supplied with an ice-breaking machine and continued shipping the year round. From the first the coal was transferred from the mine to the canal in cars, and there loaded into their own boats, for shipment. In 1869 Mr. Brooks purchased another tract of 600 acres immediately back of and north of Nelsonville, known as section 19. Mines were opened on this land; the two works were run together until within a few years back, when the old mine became nearly exhausted. In the new mines were placed all the latest facilities for rapid and successful mining, including mining machines, an improved set of screens, and a system of pumps tor relieving the mine of water. The mining machines and pumps are run by compressed air power, the pumps being automatic in their actions. Mr. Brooks, as one of the leading citizens, has been liberal in the support of worthy enterprises. lie has been also largely in the mercantile business since he came to Nelsonville to inaugurate his mining enterprises, and erected the large brick store on the corner of the square, now occupied by the firm, in 1872. Mr. Brooks has recently taken his son into partnership, under the firm name of W. B. Brooks ifc Son, they are doing a large business, and now put out some 200,000 tons of coal

L. D. Poston began operating in coal soon after the completion of the canal in 1840. His first business was in connection with Mr. Launcelot Scott, who, as already stated, operated in Robbin's Hill. When on the death of Mr. Scott the business fell into the hands of Mr. Poston, he greatly improved and enlarged the facilities, soon becoming one of the foremost operators in the valley. At this time the coal was wagoned from the mines to the wharf. The business steadily increased and the works became gradually more extensive by the application of new methods until the late war of the Rebellion, when the business sprang to double its former proportions. A short time previous to the war Mr. Poston had purchased the lands in which he had operated, having had them leased up to this time. When the C. & H. V. Railway was built the business was again enlarged, large quantities being shipped both by railroad and canal.

In 1872 he bought a tract of 250 acres of land lying just east of the town and opened the mines. Having made all the preparations for extensive mining the property was leased to his sons, C. L. and Wm. W. Poston, and a son-in-law, E. P. Pendleton, for twenty years, himself retiring entirely from the business in 1875. The business was continued under the firm name of Poston & Pendleton. In 1880 Wm. W. Poston and Pendleton sold their interest to McClintick and Smith, of Chillicothe, Ohio, who are the present partners of C. L. Poston, under the firm name of C. L. Poston & Co. This firm recently purchased 400 acres of mineral land in the Monday Creek Valley, and are mining about 100,000 tons of coal a year, having constantly in its employ about 165 men. They own a large store on the public square, doing a business of about $50,000 a year.

Thaddeus Longstreth. - This gentleman began operating in coal at Nelsonville in the summer of 1867. He came from Warren County, Ohio, and bought an interest in the coal works of W. G. Power & Co., who were working mines leased of Rhodes & Phillips. In 1869 Mr. Longstreth bought out his partners and about the same time bought the land on which the works were situated. Since that time he has been operating alone, the business con stantly increasing. In December, 1878, he purchased a large tract of coal land in Hocking County and opened extensive works on it. He employs, at Nelsonville, about 200 men and ships about

120,000 tons of coal a year. In 1871 he laid out the eastern part of Nelsonville, known as Longstreth's addition, which consists of 17S lots laid out on improved and well-laying ground. This addition is already mostly taken up by dwellings, and will probably be, in a few years, a valuable portion of the city. The store owned by Mr. Longstreth is a large and substantial brick building situated in the addition. It was built in 1874, is 30 x 90 feet in dimensions, with a cellar under the whole of it. Mr. Longstreth, by supporting public enterprises, and by the extent of his individual business interests, has done much for the welfare and growth of Nelsonville. These are the largest and oldest of coal interests, but there are several other operators well deserving of mention, both in the extent of their mining operation and their energy and enterprise. Among these are Johnson Bros. & Co., Juniper Brothers, Nelsonville Mining Company, L. Steenrod and W. A. Shoemaker & Co. There are between 1,000 and 1,200 miners at work in these several mines, and very many of them are owners of their own dwellings. The price now paid for mining is 80 cents per ton.

Not All Mining

Nelsonville has, beside her mining and manufacturing interests, a number of elegant and substantial public buildings, among them the Methodist Episcopal church, which is an exceptionally fine and substantial structure; the Opera House, a substantial structure situated on the public square, and a number of very line store buildings. She has at present a population of about four thousand inhabitants.

The town was incorporated by act of the Legislature in 183S. The first election for town officers was held April 27, 1S39, when Charles Cable was elected Mayor; A. J. Bond, Recorder; John Coe, S. M. Shepard, John Hull, W. "W. Poston and James Rusk, Trustees. Luther Burt was appointed Marshal of the village, and Robert Miller, Treasurer. James Rusk declining to serve as Trustee, Thomas L. Mintun was appointed in his place. Since then the following persons have filled the town offices; up to 1870 only the Mayors arc named: Charles Cable, elected in 1S3S; Wm. Burlingame, 1840; Ebenezer Fenimore, 1811; Solomon Roberts, 1842; James Denver, 1843; R. G. McLean, 1815, 184b'-'47, no record; Lewis Steenrod, 1848 (Mr. Steenrod resigning, A. J. Guitteau was appointed for his unexpired term); I>. A. Lincoln, 1850; Thomas L. Mintun, 1S52; L. Hutchins, 1853; II. II. Myers,

1879 - Mayor, Asher Buckley; Clerk, L. C. Steeurod; Council, Wm. Comstock, Geo. F. Gardner, Branson Poston, C. A. Cable, W. B. Devore and T. R. Blake.

1883. - Mayor, James A. Tobin; Clerk, Eben Wilson; Council, T. R. Blake, E. H. Davis, Jacob Stoneburner, I. P. Primrose, John Hill and W. P. Sheparcl.

The Postoffice

The office was established Aug. 7, 1821, by Mr. George Courtaulcl, who was appointed Postmaster, and who kept the office in his store, in what is now Longstreth's Addition. The office was called Englishtown while kept at this place until Jan. 1, 1S24, when it was removed to Nelsonville and the name changed. Mr. Daniel Nelson was at this time appointed Postmaster, holding the position until 1832, although the business of the office was done by Mr. James Knight, who acted as Mr. Nelson's clerk, and in 1832 became his successor. Since then the Postmasters have been as follows: James Knight, 1832 to 1836; John Lillabridge, 1836 to 1839; Henry Parkson, 1839 to 1840; L. D. Poston, 1840 to 1848; John H. Tucker, 1848 to 1850; Charles Cable, 1850 to 1852; Alfred Condon, 1852 to 1855; C. A. Cable, 1855 to 1857; M. A. Stuart, 1857 (two quarters); Joseph Brett, 1857 to 1862; T. L. Mintun, 1862 to 1866; John F. Welch, 1866 to 1871; Elliott Gardner, Dec. 9, 1871, to 1878; J. W. Frost, 1S78 to present time. It was made a money-order office Aug. 1, 1870, the first order being issued on that day to John Mankoph, payable to the Times Chronicle Co., Cincinnati, O., for the amount of $2.00. Up to the present date, March 29, 1883, 1,635 orders have been issued. It was changed from a fourth to a third class office Jan. 1, 1882. The sale of stamps for the year 1882 amounted to $2,826.96.

The Methodist Episcopal. - This societ}7, was first organized about 1836. Prior to this time the only church society which existed here was the United Brethren, who held meetings in the school-house or in a dwelling, as opportunity was afforded. This society was of short duration, being to a great extent absorbed by the Methodist society when it was formed. For a time this society used for its meetings dwellings and new buildings until they erected a building in 1838. It was a frame building 40 x 60 feet in dimensions, situated where the present church building now stands. The first regular preacher was Ezekiel Gavet. Until 1868 the appointment belonged to a circuit, when it became a station belonging to the Ohio Conference. The successive pastors after it became a station have been Revs. Richard Doughty, I. Sminger, Samuel Bright, Jr., George W. Burns, Z. Fagan, II. B. Wester - velt and J. H. Gardner, the present Pastor. The old church was replaced by a new one in 1877, which is a very fine structure, costing about $20,000. Besides an auditorium it has a large Sabbath-school room.

The Presbyterian Church at Nelsonville was founded by Rev. Thomas J. Downie, Nov. 1, 1868, he being engaged to locate as Pastor the same year. The church at this time, and for a number of years after, held its meetings in the hall of the Odd Fellows society. On the first organization of the society the following officers were elected:

Mr. Downie remained Pastor up to the time of his death, March 31, 1869. For a time, the church being without a pastor, Thomas L. Mintun occasionally filled the pulpit until Rev. W. L. S. Clark, of Western Missouri, visited the society in November of the same year, and he was engaged to officiate as Pastor unti March, 1870. The church was again without a pastor until Aug. 1 of the same year, when James Stickle, of Cincinnati, O., was chosen Pastor, remaining one year, when he resigned on account of poor health, and the Rev. Julius Straus succeeded him, who remained until Oct. 7, 1874, when he, too* resigned. Jan. 1, 1875, Rev. Silas Cooke, of Canonsburg, Pa., became Pastor, he and also Mr. Straus having been regularly installed pastors. Mr. Cooke resigned in December, 1877, and was succeeded by the Rev. A. B. Rice, of Beverly, O., March 13, 1878, and tilled the pulpit until April 13, 1881. Rev. A. A. Jameson, of Fairmount, W. Ya., was then engaged as a supply for one year, resigning July 23, 1882, being followed by the Rev. James II. Hawk, of Franklin, O., who is the present Pastor. In the fall of 1873 the First Presbyterian Church of Nelsonville, was begun, and made ready for occupation in 1876. It was dedicated April 2, 1876, the dedicatory sermon being preached by Rev. A. B. Boyd, of Lancaster, O. It is a fine brick building worth

The Church of Christ. - This church was established in Nelsonville in 1S57 by Rev. L. M. Harvey. The organization took place in the residence of W. P. Roberts, and for some time after the meetings were held in private houses and school-houses. In 1859 a small house was built by the societj' on the hill-side now called Madison street. This building was sold for a private residence in 1873, and a new church, the present one, was built on Fort street. The church property also includes a parsonage on the same lot with the church. The church building is not large but it is elegantly finished on the inside, and well located. It cost about $6,000. The Pastors during the church's history have been, Revs. L. M. Harvey, Nathan Moody, John Moody. A. P. Frost, W. B. Thompson, A. B. Wade, A. W. Dean, M. A. Harvey and A. P. Frost, whose second pastorate began Nov. 19, 1882. Prominent among the evangelists who have labored with this church are: B. F. Franklin, T. D. Garvin, T. J. Clark, Elisha White, S. H. Bingman, Daniel Sweeney, R. G. White and Ira J. Chase, the latter having conducted three successful meetings during the last twelve years. The church is out of debt and in a very prosperous condition, claiming among its membership some of the most cultivated and influential residents of the city.

Public Schools

One of the early and most prominent features of the village was its strong desire for educational advantages. To this end Daniel Nelson donated the school lot upon which the present plain but substantial three-story brick school-house now stands. The school interest has grown with its growth, and there is probably no better graded school in Southeastern Ohio than that of Nelsonville, under, at this time, the superintendency of Prof. F. S. Coultrap. The growth of Nelsonville compelled the erection of the brick building above mentioned in 1856, but there was very little record kept until since the late civil war. A portion of that also is missing. In the year 1865 the School Board was composed of B. F. Harper, A. Poston and C. Steenrod, the latter acting as clerk. In 1866 it was C. Steenrod, A. Poston and C. A. Cable, the latter also assuming the duty of clerk. This continued to be the number of the members of the board for a few years, when it changed to six members, with an addition of a treasurer and secretary. The brick school-house of three stories has been for several years too small for the growth of the town, and there are now three other buildings used. In the meantime while the population of school age was rapidly increasing and increased expenses occurring for more room and a greater number of efficient teachers, the startling fact became apparent that the source of taxation and supply for school purposes was rapidly diminishing. So long as the property was in the hands of small operators, each being assessed, the valuation of real and personal estate was rather advancing than receding, but consolidation and large holdings were returned for taxation at so much less than their true or honest value that the real estate and personal property of Nelsonville decreased on the assessor's books no less than $246,378 within six years, to wit: Assessed valuation of real and personal property for the year 1875, $821,390; 1880, $575,012; total loss, $246,378; and in 1881 that assessment was still further reduced, net, $85,028. As above remarked, expenses and children of school age increased, and thus it was cutting both ways. Eight teachers only were employed in 1875, and fifteen were found necessary in 1881. In 1875 there were 708 pupils in attendance, and in 1880, 1,001, while the annual levy, in amount was exactly the same in 1880 as in 1S75, notwithstanding the large increase.

Something Had To Be Done

A meeting was called in May, 1881, to take into consideration the proposal to vote a three-mill tax, or 30 cents on the $100 valuation for school purposes, in excess of the State fund, and in that call the Board of Education submitted to the people a carefully prepared circular compiled by Prof. Coultrap of the facts above given, and from which this paragraph' has been taken, in substance. The same circular gave a comparison of teachers' salaries in Nelsonville and Logan not very flattering to the citizens of the former town.

The statement made seemed to have a beneficial effect, for it aroused the people to the fact that a long-cherished institution was not receiving that care and nourishment to sustain it with vigorous life, and which in early years had been the pride of the city.

There are now seventeen teachers employed in the public schools of Nelsonville, name and position as follows: F. S. Coultrap, Superintendent; Alice 0. Pierce, Principal; Lucy A. Bell, Assistant; Meda Riddill, Helen T. Musser, Sarah Washburn, Mat-

There are 1,084 children of school age, and an average enrollment of 780. The State school fund the past school year amounted in all to $1,666.00, and there is a school fund tax levy of ten mills.

Board Of Trustees And Officers, 1883 Lodges And Societies

Philodorean Lodge, JVb. 157, A. JP. & A. M. - This lodge was instituted May 20, 18-18, and its charter is of date Sept. 28, 1848. The following were its charter members: Lincoln D. Chamberlain, W. P. Johnson, Jas. E. Price, Noah Wilder, Thos. Miller, R. G. McLean, Obediah J. Eckley and Jas. Pugsley. The officers who received their appointment by this charter were, Wm. P. Johnson, 1st Master; Jas. E. Price, 1st Senior Warden; Obediah J. Eckley, 1st Junior Warden. At the time the charter was given them M. Z. Kreeder was M. W. G. M. of the State, and his signature was affixed to the charter.

It has been for many years supposed that Lincoln D. Chamberlain was the first Past Master, but this is a mistake, W. P. Johnson held that position. Mr. Chamberlain's name is the first written of the charter members. These facts are taken from the original charter, and of course are correct. The Past Masters would then be the same as published, leaving out the first name. They were given us as follows: W. P. Johnson, 1849; J. E. Price, 1850; Thomas Shannon, 1851; J. E. Price, 1853; B. A. Lincoln, 1854; Thomas Shannon, 1856; William Gilliam, 1857; Thomas Shannon, 1859; Jos. II. Butterworth, 1864; S. S. McDivitt, 1865; Thomas Older, 1866; W. P. Roberts, 1867; S. S. McDivitt, 1868; J. F. Camp, 1869; H. S. Preston, 1872; J. F. Camp, 1874; H. S.Preston, 1875; John T. Gray, 1876.

History Of Hocking Vaxley

Martin, Tyler; Alexander Beattie and Thomas Johnson. Stewards. Unity Lodge, No. 568, /. 0. O. F., located at Nelson ville, Ohio, was instituted June the 5th, 1874. The charter members and first officers installed were as follows: Joseph Barnecut, N. G. ; W. G. Hickman, Y. G. ; T. B. Prichard, R S. ; M. W. Davis, P. S. ; James M. Riddle, Treasurer; S. F. Robinet, Samuel C. Breakev, J. S. Speelman, J. J. Hoodlet, Henry A. Harris, John S. Wilson, Calvin Millinger, G. W. Mitchell, Joseph Smith, Win. Barnes, Thomas C. Wilson, Joseph P. Dean, J. M. Parker, Frederic Wend and Paul Cummins. The Past Grands are: J. J. Hoodlet, 1876; Win. Barnes, 1876; S. C. Breakey, 1877; Joseph P. Dean, 1878; S. F. Robinet, 1878; W. C. Sidman, 1879; James Six, 1879; James M. Riddle, 1880; John S. Wright, 1S80; Calvin Millinger, 1881; George V. Shaffer, 1881; Nathan Coy, 1882; Charles Ellwanger, 1882. The present membership is about 104. The present officers are: Wm. E. Evans, N. G.; W. F. Brandon, V. G. ; Win. J. Daniels, R. P. ; W. H. Barnes, P. S., and S. F. Robinet, Treasurer.

The Phil Kearney Post, No. 38, was chartered July 16, 1880, with the following charter members: Chas. E. Cutler, Wm. M. Phillips, James Hart'y, C. K. Lansley, Jacob Hammond, Thomas R. Blake, Wm. Rankin, Wm. Justice, I. P. Primrose, Albert Woody, Wm. A. Worley, Hi ram Rosser, John F. Welch. The following roster of officers was duly elected, and installed by Chief Mustering Officer P. W. Stanhope: Chas. E. Cutler, Post Commander; Hiram Rosser, S. V. 0.- T. R Blake, J. V. C. ; Wm. A. Worley, Post Adj.; C. K. Lansley, Q. M.; Albert Woody, Chaplain; I. P. Primrose, Surgeon; Wm. Rankin, O. of the day; Wm. Justice, O. of the Guard; James Hartley, 1st G., and Wm. Phillips, 2d G. The following year was a prosperous one for the post. Roster for 1883: John O. Burrell, P. C; Alonzo Newton, J. Y. ; Lemuel Cline, Surgeon; I. P. Primrose, Chaplain; Jas. A. Wilson, P. A.; Albert Woody, Q. M. ; O. of the D., Frank Morgan; John Figgins, O. of the Guard. At this date. March 24, 1883, the post seems to be imbued with new life, and is on the road to prosperity, with all dues paid and some money in hands of Quartermaster.

Hockhocking Lodge, No. 339, /. O. 0. F. - This lodge has had its records lost or mislaid and but little could be had of its previous history.

Messrs. C. A. Cable, E. W. Poston, E. C. Washburn, J. W. Fulton and John Burberry. That this lodge has been prosperous we have abundant evidence. Precisely eleven years afterward (in July, 1869), Nelsonville Encampment, No. 121, was instituted. The charter members were: S. N. Poston, Wm. Comstock, Smith Spencer, I. P. Primrose, E. W. Newton and others. At this time, May, 1883, Joseph Barnicut is N. G., and T. P. Marshall, Secretary. A further history was promised us, but has failed to come to hand.

Business Interests

Nelsonville grew slowly until an impetus was given by the opening of railroad transportation. While the canal had been a great help, it was not as capable of moving the mineral wealth when mined as capital was ready to dig out this wTealth, and on the 1st of February, 1866, the year following the close of the war, it had but the following houses: 137 dwelling houses, 2 churches, 1 school-house, 4 schools, 5 dry-goods stores, 10 groceries, 1 drug store, 1 saddler shop, 2 shoe shops, 1 cabinet shop, 3 carpenter shops, 2 barber shops, 3 blacksmith shops, 1 wagon-shop, 1 millinery store, 2 dressmakers, 2 mills, 1 hotel, 2 boarding houses, 2 bark yards, 3 doctors, 1 dry-dock, 2 lodges (I. O. O. F. and A. F. & A. M.j, 1 tannery, 1 silversmith, a canal and several of the finest coal banks in the country.

In 1870 Nelsonville had a population of 1,080, and in 1880 of 3,095, or a gain of nearly 200 per cent. The completion of the railroads gave an impetus that is yet pressing her forward, and in 1890 she may show another gain of 200 per cent, or a population of 10,000. Her business interest now is composed of 13 general stores, 8 exclusive grocery stores, 4 drug stores, 2 boot and shoe stores, 1 clothing store, 2 jewelry stores, 1 furniture and stove store, 2 sewing-machine agencies, 3 hardware stores, 1 furniture store, 4 restaurants, 2 confectionery stores, 2 bakeries, 17 saloons, 2 livery stables, 1 flour and feed store, 4 meat markets, 3 barber shops, 3 millinery stores, 1 cigar manufactory, 1 tanvard, 2 tailors, 2 painters, 7 carpenters, 2 planing mills, 1 lumber yard, 2 dealers in plaster and cement, 1 foundry and machine shop, 2 flouring mills, 1 saw-mill, L bank, churches, schools and lodges, newspaper and job offices, etc.

It is possible that some few items of business interest have been overlooked, but the showing for 1883 is sufficiently wonderful to satisfy the most extravagant wishes or views of the people. Add to the above the mining interest and the railroad and there is something to excite extravagant hopes, also, for the future. It only needs capital and brawn to double the present output of the mines, and transportation will be found for it all.

Iron furnaces are what is wanted, and rolling mills, in fact machinery of all kinds. Coal and iron at hand, and where, with such means of shipment, can the workers of iron find a cheaper place for manufactures or a better market than what can be easily reached by rail and water?

Merchants And Miners' Bank

This is the only bank in Nelson ville; was organized in 1873, opening business Sept. 9, on an individual liability. At the first election of officers, Charles Robbins was elected President, John W. Scott, Vice-President, and Charles A. Cable, Cashier. The original stockholders were Charles Robbins, John G. Myers, John W. Scott, Charles A. Cable, W. B. Brooks, of Columbus, and E. H. Moore, of Athens. The entire stock is now owned by Charles Robbins, Charles A. Cable, E. H. Moore and Eugene J. Cable. Mr. Robbins is the President, and Mr. C. A. Cable, Cashier.

Newspapers Of Nelsonville

Times. - The first paper started in Nelsonville was called the Nelsonville Times. It was a six-column weekly paper, but only lived a short time. In the following year (1873) the

Nelsonville Miner was published by George Cook. He made a lively and progressive paper of it, and always took the laborer's part. The coal operators got down on him for his independent spirit, and he closed out in December, 1875, to J. A. Straight, after publishing as good a paper as was ever seen in Nelsonville.

The NelsonvilJe News. - The Nelsonville News may be said to be the successor of the Nelsonville Mirror, although the latter was of short life. The News was established by John A. Tullis in 1879. On his coining to Nelsonville in 1878 he purchased the press and office supplies from the proprietor of the Mirror, but used the press only for job work. The first number of the News was issued Jan. 16, 1879. It was a seven-column paper, 24x36 inches, and so continued up to the 26th of the following Juue, when it was changed to an eight-column paper. Mr. Tullis has been its sole editor and proprietor from the start. The career of this paper has been as prosperous as could be expected under the circumstances. It has been steadily growing in strength, and is now on a firm basis, being not only self-supporting but producing a reasonable profit to its proprietor. It is neutral in politics, the editors motto being: "An independent journal, devoted to the interest of its patrons."" It is issued every Thursday, the subscription price being $1.50.

John A. Tullis, editor of the Nelsonville News, was born Nov. 11, 1836, near Donnelsville, Clarke Co., O. His father was a farmer in moderate circumstances, keeping his son on the farm with him. In 1844 the family removed to Champaign County, O., still remaining on a farm. His father being unable to send him to college, young Tullis obtained what education he could at the public schools. He afterward attended a seminary in Clarke County, but was not able to continue until completing the course. When he became a man, his health being delicate, he decided to go into a life of business. He consequently engaged in and followed for a number of vears, as long as his health permitted, wholesale produce shipping to New York and Philadelphia markets. The last tour years he was in this business he was located at St. Paris, O., where he was also engaged in the printing business. "When he retired from business there, he came to Nelsonville and established his paper, on which he has worked faithfully ever since. Great credit is due to his perseverance and good management, as he is the first man who succeeded in permanently establishing a newspaper in Nelsonville, although numerous attempts had been made. He has well maintained the reputation of his profession, by endeavoring to infuse new and animated life in his fellow citizens. He has advocated public and private im- provements, and it is not at all improbable that some of this seed has fallen in good soil, since at no time in the town's history has the progress of improvement been so great as at the present time.

He was married to Miss Susan E. Deaton. of Addison, Champaign County, March 31, 1859. Of this union there are three children, all daughters and all living - Addie A. was born Feb. 5, 1800; Anna V., April 23, 1875, and Mabel, April 5, 1878.

Athens County Republican. - The Athens County Republican, published at Nelsonville. O., was founded by James A. Miller and Charles Logan, at Athens, 0.,in May, 1881. The first issue appeared June 1, 1881, the name of the paper at that time, and for several months after, being the Athens Republican. Miller & Logan were the proprietors and editors up to Jan. 11, 1882, when the paper appeared with the name of James A. Miller as sole editor, Mr. Logan continuing to be part owner. As the name indicates, the paper is Republican in politics, its public statement being, "To be devoted to the promotion and interests of the Republican party." In February, 1882, Mr. Miller became the sole proprietor. By the next issue the paper had again changed hands, the names of G. W. Baker, J. M. Wood and J. P. Wood appearing as proprietors, and that of G. W. Baker as editor and manager. The last number issued at Athens is dated Aug. 30, 1882, it having been sold to Charles P. Reid, its present owner, and taken at once to Nelsonville. Originally the Republican was a six-column four-page paper. It was subsequently enlarged, Aug. 3, 1881, to seven columns, and May 10, 1882, to eight columns, its present size. It was purchased by Charles P. Reid, who took possession Sept. 1, 1882, removing it to Nelsonville, where he issued the first number the following Thursday. Mr. Reid's name has appeared from that time to the present as sole editor and proprietor. It is issued regularly every Thursday, the subscription price being $1.50.

Charles P. Reid, editor of the Athens County Republican, was born Aug. 18, 1858, at Piqua, Miami Co., O. He received a good school education, finishing at Wapakoneta, ()., in April, 1875, at which time he apprenticed himself to O. J. Powell, publisher of the Wapakoneta Republican. He removed with Mr. Powell to Chicago Junction, Huron Co., O., in the winter of 1875-'6, but returned to Wapakoneta in about one month, and immediately accepted a situation as foreman with Davis & Mc-

Murray, publishers of the Auglaize County Democrat. In November, 1879, he became associated with Trego & Binkley, publishers of the Sidney (O.) Journal, and later went to Piqua and took the foremanship and local chair on the Piqna Journal. In July, 1880, he accepted a situation with Colonel R. W. Jones, publisher of the Athens Journal. He remained but seven weeks, when he returned to his old situation as foreman of the Auglaize County Democrat, and in December, 1880, when Mr. Davis, the publisher, was taken with hemorrhage of the lungs, he assumed editorial control of the Democrat, being then only twenty-three years old. He continued in that capacity until after Mr. Davis's death, June 19, 1881, when the office was sold by Mrs. C. P. Da. vis, and he returned to the position of foreman, and so continued until he purchased the Athens County Republican, Aug. 26, 1882, from Baker & "Woods. He was married to Miss Carrie E. Davis, daughter of C. P. Davis, Jan. 10, 1882. Immediately after taking charge of the Republican, Sept. 1, 1882, he removed to Nelsonville, issuing the paper the following week, as usual, without missing a number.

Nelsonville Foundry and Machine Co's works, established April, 1880. They are owned by a joint stock company, the President being John P. Buchtel, of Akron, O. Among the products are steam-pipes and steam-fittings, and mining cars are a specialty.

This closes the history of the largest city in the valley of the Hocking, and its future destiny is very bright and promising. Energy, enterprise and morality will give her a prestige that no city in the valley can rival. May this be her lot.

of six children, five of whom are living - William, Philip, Fred, Mollie and Lenora. Catharine, a lovely little daughter, died at the age of seven years, three months and sixteen days.

John A. Putz was born April 14, 1832, in Germany, a son of John J. and Sophia Putz. He came to this country with his parents in 1846 and settled in Milwaukee, Wis. In 1864 he came to Ohio, locating in Chillicothe, where he took charge of the paint shops for the M. & C. R. R. Co. HVcame to Zaleski in 1871 and has since been general superintendent of the paint-shops here. Mr. Putz was educated in Germany, where he graduated in thescientific course when he was about sixteen years old. He afterward took a theological course in Milwaukee and Chillicothe, where he was prepared for the ministry, and in 1867 was ordained in the Old School Presbyterian church. He is a very fine scholar and a fluent speaker. He was married on Feb. 15, 1851, to Miss Matilda Esslinger, a daughter of George Esslinger, who lived in Wisconsin. They are the parents of eleven children, nine of whom are living - Ida, Augustus, Iddo, Oscar, Matilda, George, Charles, Frank and Edward. Monroe died at the age of five, and Johnny at the age of two years.

O. S. Rannells, M. D., was born April 28, 1844, in Guernsey County, Ohio, and is a son of Samuel J. and Rachel (Hues) Rannells. Mr. Rannells's parents came in 1850 to what was then Hocking County but soon afterward became Vinton County, being an early settler of this county. His father was a very prominent lawyer in his time. He practiced a number of years, but had to give it up on account of his health. After he gave up the practice of law he bought a farm where he lived until his death in 1856. C. S*. Rannells was educated in the Union schools at Mc Arthur until he was nineteen years old, when he enlisted in the army in Company L, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Cavalry. He entered thearmy as a private, but was soon promoted to Orderly Sergeant and was soon afterward promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant, and after a year was again promoted to First Lieutenant which position he held until he was mustered out in November, 1865, at Camp Chase, Ohio. He was in the battle of Mt. Sterling, Ky., against John Morgan, and at Marion, Va. He was in an action against John C. Breckenridge, and a number of other battles of less importance. He was in the company that pursued Jeff Davis from Charlotte, N. C, to Georgia, where he (Davis) was captured by AYilson's men. He began the study of medicine in 186-7 and graduated in Starling Medical University in 1871, and began the practice of his profession in McArthar, and four years later came to Zaleski, where he has built up a large practice. lie was married June 23, 1875, to Mary L. Hawk, a daughter of John S. Hawk, who lives in Hamden, Ohio. They have one child - Cora F.

Levi Robinett was born Aug. 4, 1S35, in Athens County, Ohio, and 'is a son of Amos and Sarah Robinett, who were born and reared in that county. His father died in the army at Huttonsville, Va., in 1862, at the age of fifty-one years. His mother died Feb. 4, 1883, at the age of seventy-live years. Mr. Robinett was reared on a farm, and like most other boys received only a common education in the public schools. He lived in Athens County until he was thirty-three years old, when he came to Vinton County, where he now lives. Nov. 9, 1856, he was married to Julia A. Cottrill, born April 2, 1837, a daughter of Andrew and Eliza Cottrill, who were residents of Athens County. Mr. Cottrill died April 1, 1870, at the age of sixty-six. Mrs. Cottrill is yet living, at the age of seventy-five. Mr. and Mrs. Robinett are the parents of three children - F. M., Roda J. (who is the wife of Henry Sockel), and Mary V. Mr. Robinett belongs to the Masonic order, Lodge No. 156, at Albany, Ohio, and is a Master Mason. His son, F. M. Robinett, is also a Master Mason. Mr. Robinett is a man that takes great pride in fine stock, and has some of the best Durham cattle, Chester hogs, merino sheep, Lexington horses and shepherd dogs in the county. He owns 148 acres of line land. He has served five years as Township Treasurer.

Allen Robinson was born in Scott County, Ky., Nov. 27, 1845, a son of Alfred Robinson, who is a farmer and stock-raiser, and is yet living at the age of seventy-seven. Mr. Robinson moved from Virginia, where he was engaged in the oil business, to Ohio, in 1870, and is now engaged in the mercantile business. He was educated in Frankfort, Ky., until he was about fourteen years old. He is one of the leading business men of Zaleski, a partner in the firm of Robinson & Hubbert. They carry a full line of goods and have an average sale of about $35,000 a year. Mr. Robinson was married Oct. 14, 1866, to Amanda C. Day, lyy whom he has three children - Wirt, Buenavista and Homer. Mr. Robinson is one of the best business men in the town. In addition to his interest in the mercantile business he is engaged in milling, being the proprietor of the Zaleski Steam Flouring Mills. He has been Justice of the Peace nine years.

John F. Sands, son of Jo3hua and Betsey (Call) Sands, was born in Elmira, N. Y., Feb. 7, 1841. His parents came to Hocking County, Ohio, in 1851. His educational advantages were limited, and he obtained the most of his knowledge of books by studying after his day's work was done. June 23, 1863, he married Sarah J., daughter of Joseph and Julia A. Lange. They are the parents of six children, five now living - Frederick A. , John E., William Peabody, Julia A. and George 1ST. Clarissa died Dec. 25, 1866, aged three years and seven months. Mr. Sands's father was born March 7, 1802, a son of John Wilkes, and grandson of Nathaniel Sands, who came to America from England, between 1725 and 1750, settling on Long Island. He was a railroad contractor, and at the time of coming to Ohio was engaged to construct the Scioto & Hocking Valley, now known as the River Division of the Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo Railroad. He has seven children, five sons and two daughters - W. H. B., Postmaster at Zaleski; A. C, conductor; James W., track superintendent; Frank C, clerk, and John F., station agent and telegraph operator for the M. & C. R. R. Amelia M., now Mrs. Mark Horth, resides in Salamanca, N. Y., and Clarissa A. B. is a missionary of the Baptist church, now in Yokohama, Japan. Mr. Sands has been superintendent of the C.,W. & B. depot at Zaleski twenty-six years.

Robert Skeliy, the proprietor of the Bolen Mills, was born Nov. 1, 1S10, in Pennsylvania, but came to Athens County when he was very young, and has since made his home in this part of Ohio. In 1S35 he was married to Almira Porter. They were the parents of eight children - Rlioda B., Eliza A., Elizabeth E., Rod nev, Axey, Rhoda, Lee and Harriet. His second marriage was to Mrs. Annie Chime, by whom he has four children, three now living - Jasper, George and Jane. One died in infancy. Mr. Skelly is a very prominent citizen of Vinton County. He has been Township Treasurer for about five years.

\n E. Spicer was born in Jackson County, Ohio, April 11, L8 B, and is a son of G. W. and Rachel Spicer. who were born in Culpeper County. Va.. in 1814 and 1816. Mr. Spicer moved to Vinton County in 1S57. where he has lived nearly all the time since. a the call was made for volunteers he was among the first to and enlisted in^the Twelfth Ohio Infantry, June 19, 1861. lie served until Jan. 1. 1864, when he re-enlisted in the same regiment, which was afterward consolidated with the Twenty-third vard known by the latter name. He was in one of the first battles of the war (battle of Scary Creek) in West Virginia, where he was wounded in the left arm. Aug. 27, 1S62, he was in the second battle of Bull Run, and was taken prisoner there, but was afterward paroled. After this he was in the battles of Antictam and South Mountain, in September, 1862. In 1863 he was in the battle of Fayetteville, W. Ya., and several others of less importance. In the battle of Cloyd Mountain, W. Ya., he was wounded and taken prisoner, May 9, 1864, and remained in prison until December, 1864. He was in the prisons in Andersonville, Savannah and Millen, Ga. On account of his wounds and disability he was discharged March 1, 1865, when he came home, and as soon as he was able to attend to business was appointed Postmaster at Oak Hill, Jackson Co., Ohio, which office he held four years when he resigned, and took the position as general mana ger of merchandise at Maybee's, Jackson Co., Ohio. Two years later he accepted the position as engineer of the railroad shops for the M. & C. R. R. Company, which he held four years. During the panic of 1873 he went into the hardware business in Hamden, Ohio. Shortly after that he became a member of the firm of Clayton & Spicer, in Zaleski, Ohio, which business he continued in a year and withdrew. In 1875 he began work for the Zaleski Company as coal-weigher, and continued as such for two years, when he was promoted to the general superintendency of the Zaleski Company's store. Feb. 5, X865, he was united in marriage to Miss Emma Ileggins, daughter of W. D. and Martha Heggins, who now live in Zaleski. Mr. Heggins is Mayor of the town. They have three children - Clarence M., Ida M. and Minnie B. Mr. Spicer is a member of the Blue Lodge, No. 472, Zaleski, Ohio, and McArthur Chapter, No. 102, Royal Arch Masons. lie is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday-school. He is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, T.[ R. Stanley Post, No. 223. He is Post Commander.

M. C. Winget, a resident of Madison Township, was born Feb. 28, 1826, in Greene County, Pa., and is a son of Caleb and Martha Winget. His mother died when he was quite young, but his father is yet living, aged about seventy-nine years. In 1841 Mr. Winget moved from Pennsylvania to Knox County, Ohio, where he lived eight years. He learned the stone mason and plasterer's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three summers. From there he moved to Meigs County, Ohio, where he lived three years, and from there came to Yinton County. He was married in December, 1844, to Nancy Berry, daughter of John and Jane Berry. They had nine children, six now living - Henry, Margaret J., Sophronia, Stephen F., Isaac C. and James. Rholden died June 17, 1868; Mary R, July 28, 1854, and Emily, Aug. 1, 1856. Mrs. Winget died April 18, 1873. Feb. 5, 1880, Mr. Winget married Judith Clewell, daughter of John and Lydia Clewell. They are the parents of one child - Elmira C. Mr. Winget is a member of the Protestant Methodist church and has been a local preacher for twenty years. He was an ordained minister of the Methodist Episcopal church three years. Although he only had the advantage of a common-school education and that being limited to a great extent, he is a man of more than ordinary talent. As an example of his ability, we add the following composed by him while meditating upon his boyhood days in Pennsylvania:

" Far, far away from here on the high and lofty plains of the great Keystone State, in peace and content I passed the days of my childhood. It was told me in life's summer day that pleasure streams did flow along the thorny path of life. I did not find it so. The reminiscences of the past are now present with me as the busy hum of population died away on the distant sinking and swelling forest. The songster in the arbor pouring forth his vesper song of praise on the topmost twig of the tall arch tree, as if he thought the nearer he could make his perch to heaven the sweeter his voice would sound. The mourning dove with wings all covered with silver and feathers of shining gold had fled away to the nightly bower. The star that melted away in the light of heaven when the brighter sun rose on the world was gleaming through the nightfall gloom. The sun had spent his fury amid the golden clouds of the Western skies. Then stationing his red sentinels in the Western hemisphere amid his own departing glory gone to shine on other lands. I stood on the rising ground looking far away the distance of forty miles upon that blue ridge called Laurel Hill, and as the evening shades prevailed the little firefly lit up the swamps as pleasant as the air of a summer evening when it floats among the trees. Those juvenile days and years have long since receded and passed away, and on this beautiful month of May, eighteen hundred and eighty-three, my meridian sun is shining bright and I trust will still continue until I shake off this mortal coil and step down into the packet of death and put on the wardrobe of the skies to join the lookout angel standing on the hill of Zion."

Brown

J. A. Ankram, born in Yinton County, Ohio, June 18, 1859, is a son of J. P. and Jemima (Ewing) Ankram, his father a native of Vinton County and his mother of Jackson County, Ohio. He is the eldest of a family of seven children. He was educated in the schools of McArthur. He began his business life as a clerk in his father's store at McArthur, and afterward came to the branch store at New Plymouth, where he clerked till June 1, 18S2. At that time he purchased the stock and is now doing a good business, having a complete stock of general merchandise, dry-goods, boots and shoes, notions, groceries, etc. May 18, 1882, he married Abbie Townsend, a native of Meigs County, Ohio, born Feb. 28, 1860.

Sylvanus Bartlett, carpenter, was born in Athens, Ohio, Jan. 9, 1827, but was reared in New Plymouth, Vinton County, and early learned the carpenter's trade. March 7, 1850, he married Mahala Withrow, a native of Ross County, Ohio, born Jan. 17, 1834. Ten children have been born to them, only six now living - Elizabeth, Alvin, Catherine, Harriet, Ruth and John. Aug. 12, 1861, Mr. Bartlett enlisted in Company B, Eighteenth Ohio Infantry, and served one year as private. He was then promoted to First Lieutenant. At the expiration of his term of service he enlisted in the First United States Veteran Engineers and served over a year, being discharged at Nashville, Tenn., in November, 1865. He has held the offices of Township Trustee and Township Assessor. He is a member of the Presbyterian church.

William L. Bartlett, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in the house where he now lives, on section 36, Brown Township, Feb. 4, 1839. His father, Sylvanus Bartlett, was born in Plymouth, Mass., in 1799, and died Sept. 29, 1849. His mother, Amanda (Bingham) Bartlett, was born near Athens, Ohio, July 10, 1798, and died Dec. 2, 1881. Mr. Bartlett is one of a family of nine children, five now living, four of whom were in the late war. He enlisted Aug. 12, 1861, in Company B, Eighteenth Ohio Infantry, and served three years. At the battle of Chickamauga he was wounded, a minie-ball hitting him in the right breast and coming out of the left breast, breaking tiie breast-bone. After his recovery he was placed in the Veteran Reserve Corps, and was in "Washington the greater part of the time till his discharge. Upon his return home he resumed his former occupation, and at present is making a specialty of merino sheep, having 185 head. He has

320 acres of land, residing on section 36. Oct. 24, 1866, he married Mary M. Graham, of Washington County, Ohio, born Oct. 24, 1846. They have five children - Ella, Henry, Mary, Jane and Maud. Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett are members of the Presbyterian church.

James Briggs was born in Tioga County, Pa., Sept. 11, 1817, and when four years of age came with his parents to Ohio, locating near his present residence. His father, Simeon Briggs, was boin in Freetown, Mass., in 1777, and died in 1859. His mother, Rebecca (Pitts) Briggs, was born in Taunton, Mass., in 1787, and died July 30, 1869. James was the youngest of nine children. He received his education in this county, being reared to the life of a farmer. He has 318 acres of good land, residing on section 33, Brown Township. He makes a specialty of stock-raising. He was married in June, 1842, to Lucinda Tinkham, a native of Massachusetts, born in 1814. She died in 1869, leaving a family of seven children, five now living - Simeon, now living in Macon County, Mo.; Volney, in Montana: Deborah, in Nebraska; Mary A. and William James, in Kansas. Feb. 15, 1871, Mr. Briggs married Mrs. Permelia Gould, a native of Edmonson County, Ky., seven miles from the Mammoth Cave.

Dr. William C. Cline was born July 20, 1825, in West Virginia, and when twelve years of age came with his father to Meigs County, Ohio, where he remained three years. At the age of fifteen he went to the college at Albany, Athens County, which he attended till 1847. He then commencedhis study of medicine, and - graduated at the Medical School, at Columbus, Ohio, in 1850. In the same year he located at Wilkesville, where he still follows his profession with much success, and is now classed among the wealthiest citizens, of Vinton County. He at one time owned 1,400 acres of valuable land, butatpresent has but 700 acres. In 1879- '80 he represented his district in the State Senate. The Doctor was married in 1851 to Miss Virginia Althor, who was born in Greenbrier County, W. Va. They had one child - George W., born Dec. 12, 1853, who died April 23, 1881, mourned by a large number of friends. He was married to May P. Brown in 1873. He was one of the live%business men of this county. George W. Cline, the father^of our subject, was born in Virginia in 1797, and died in 1850. His mother, R. V. (McCann) Cline, was born in Virginia in 1799 and died in 1844. W. C. was the seventh of their ten children.

S. C. Eggleston was born in New York, Sept. 30, 1814, a son of A. and Levin a Eggleston, his father a native of New York aud his mother of Switzerland, lie catne to Ohio in 1829, and has made his home in Hocking and Vinton counties. In his early life he followed farming, and then spent twelve years at the cabinet-maker's trade. For the past nineteen years he has been in the mercantile business. He was married in 1337 to Lucinda Canwell, a native of Canada, born in 1814. She died in 1849 leaving three children - Levina, George and Rosalie. March 7, 1S50, Mr. Eggleston married Susan Ilaynes. She died June 19, 1854, leaving one child - Watson. He afterward married Jane Gould, a native of New Wellsburg, Va. They have three children - Jerry B., born Aug. 5, 1856; James G., Aug. 1, 1858, and Clara J., March 3, 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Eggleston are members of the Presbyterian church.

Lemuel Fuller was born in McArthur, Vinton County, April 1, 1837, and on March 10, 1859, he was united in marriage with Amanda Reasonor, who was born in Grundy County, Ohio, Jan. 9, 1840, and died March 17, 1830. Their family consistoi of four children - Josiah, Celesta, Irene, and Celia Ann. Mr. Fuller has been a resident ol Vinton County all of his life, and at present owns a good farm of eighty acres on section 23, Brown Township, where he is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. On March 15, 1865, he enlisted in Company K, One Hundred and Ninety -fourth Ohio Infantry, in the late war, and served until its close. Mr. Fuller has been a member of the United Brethren church for eighteen years.

Lorenzo D. Fuller, farmer, was born in Vinton County, Ohio, April 27, 1842. He was reared a farmer and now has 353^ acres ot good land, his residence being on section 29. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He was married in 1862 to Melissa Lillabridge, a native of Hocking County, Ohio, born in 1845. She died in 1865, leaving one child - Bluebe M., born June, 1863. In 1869 Mr. Fuller married Elizabeth Swift, a native of Athens County, born in 1S48. They have six children - Rhoda Jane, born in 1S72; Mary E., in 1873; William F., in 1876; John S., in 1878; Lemuel F., in 1879, and Flora B., in 1881. William Full,)' was born in New Hampshire, Sept. 7, 1814, and came with his father to Ohio in 1817, locating near McArthur, Vinton County, where he was reared and educated. He now has a farm of L80 acres on section 23, Brown Township, and is engaged in farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of the latter. In 1837 he married C. C. Lista Lane, who was born in 1815, and died in 1842 leaving two children - Lemuel, born in 1837, and Lorenzo D., born in 1842. In 1S47, Mr. Fuller married Phoebe Gray, a native of Pennsylvania, born March 7, 1S21. They have no children. Mr. and Mrs. Fuller are members of the United Brethren church.

Washington Keeton was born April] 24, 1820, in what is now Brown Township, and has lived in the same locality all his life. He was united in marriage with Matilda P. Benjamin, June 14, 1845. They have had twelve children, whose names are - Mahala C, George W., Daniel J., Isaac S., Nathan B., A brain, Mary A., Esther A., Eliza E., Prudence E., Ada E. and Emma. Mr. Keeton has a good farm of 321 acres, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He has held the office of Director of the School Board for the last twenty years, and has also served as County Commissioner for four years, beside being Constable and Township Trustee for a number of terms. Mrs. Keeton is a native of Athens County, Ohio, being born there March 7, 1826. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Keeton's father, George Keeton, was born in Virginia, July 25, 1779, and departed this life in 1870. His mother, Esther (Fee) Keeton, was also born in Virginia, June 17, 1795. She died in 1872. They were the parents of twelve children, but only three survive - Anna, Washington and Isaac.

Henry C. Kreppel was born in Wirtemberg, Germany, Feb. 14, 1835. He came to the United States in 1863, landing in New York; remained there three months and then went to Rome, Ind., remaining there six months. From there he went to Cincinnati, and a year later to Zaleski. May 3, 1872, he came to New Plymouth where he now has a tannery and is also carrying on a harnessmaking establishment. His work will compare with the best in the country, and he is doing a good business. He owns forty acres of good land in Washington Township, Hocking County. April 3, 1866, he married Louisa Ronk, a native of Harrison, Ind., born Sept. 24, 1851. They have a family of seven children - John W., born May 16, 1868; Charles G., Feb. 10, 1870; Anna M., Oct. 20, 1871; Katie L., March 8, 1876; Maggie C, March 1, 1878; Samuel E., June 13, 1880; Frank H., Nov. 13, 1882.

Isaac Zash, farmer, was born in Brown Township, March 8, 1839, and received his education in this county, his home having always been in this township. He has a good farm of 150 acres,

Thomas Magee, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Washington County, Penn., Jan. 22, 1828. His father came to Ohio in 1831 and located in Guernsey County, coming to this county seven years later. Mr. Magee has a fine farm of 939 acres on section 34, Brown Township. He is extensively engaged in stock-raising, making a specialty of Spanish merino sheep. Nov. 11, 1853, he married Mary Ann Trout, a native of Perry County, Ohio, born Feb. 22, 1832. They have two children - Franklin P., born in July, 1854, and Elizabeth Ann, in July, 1856. Mr. Magee has held the offices of County Commissioner and Township Treasurer, the latter for eleven years.

George Mc Daniel, a native of Bedford County, Penn., was born Nov. 5, 1834. In 1840 he left his native place for Ohio, settling near Millfield, in Athens County. Two years later he removed to Sugar Creek, three miles from Athens, where he remained ten years. He then removed to Waterloo Township, but after two years he came to Brown Township where he has resided since 1854. Mr. McDaniel has followed farming for a great number of years, and now is the possessor of a good farm of 240 acres on section 12, Brown Township. In 1862 our subject was married to Sarah Ann Allen, who has borne him eight children whose names are: Julia A., Charles W., Marshey, George, Thomas N., Mary, Frank and Hannah. Mr. McDaniel enlisted in the late war in Company G, One Hundred and Fifty-first Ohio National Guards; served 100 days, returning to his home in 1864. He and wife are members of the Bible Christian church. Of his eight brothers and sisters only two are living at present, viz.: Joseph and George. James McDaniel, our subject's father, was born in Pennsylvania, Oct. 11, 1793. He lived with his son George until his death, which occurred March 23, 1873. His mother, Hannah Williams, was also a native of Pennsylvania, being born there May 27, 1793. She died in Ohio, Oct. 9, 1848.

Joseph McDaniel ', section 12, Brown Township, Vinton Co., Ohio, was born in Bedford County, Penn., Sept. 1, 1832, a son of James McDaniel, a native of the same county. Our subject came with his parents to Athens County, Ohio, in 1S40, and a few years later came to Vinton County, where he has since resided. He followed threshing for nine years, bought and shipped stock five years, but now is engaged in farming and stock-raising. He was married in the fall of 1859 to Eliza Thompson, daughter of Ezra Thompson. They have had seven children, six living - Sarah E., George W., Arie Jane, Asa S., Olive B. and John W. Mr. and Mrs. McDaniel are members of the Bible Christian church at Mt. Zion, in Starr Township, Hocking County.

1815. At the age of thirteen she accompanied her father, Win. C. Tucker, to Ohio, where she has ever since resided. In 1839 she was married to John Reasoner, who was born in Ohio, Sept. 25,

1816, and died June 25, 1870, and is buried at Plymouth. To this union have been given seven children, of whom Peter Craig, Celia Ann and Phoebe C, now Mrs. Win. Lillab ridge, are living. Mrs. Reasoner has a fine farm of 236 acres of land on section 23, Brown Township, Vinton County, where she raises sheep, cattle, grain, hay, etc. She is a member of the Presbyterian church.

P. M. Reasoner, farmer, was born in Westmoreland Township, Guernsey County, Ohio, Nov. 27, 1844, and when four years of age came to Vinton County, where he was reared and educated. He owns a fine farm of 143 acres on section 30, Brown Township. He also has a steam saw-mill at New Plymouth, where he does a good business. June 17, 1868, he married Richel M. Weed, a native of Vinton County, born May 31, 1844. They have a family of seven children - Mary T., Maggie E., Laura M., Eugene P., Sela A., Ada E., Myrta A. Mr. and Mrs. Reasoner are members of the Presbyterian church.

Thomas M. Stevenson was born in Muskingum Cuunty, Ohio, Feb. 19, 1828. In 1851 he graduated from the Muskingum College at New Concord, Ohio, and the following year was Principal of West Carlisle College, Ohio. He was then appointed Superintendent of the Dresden, Ohio, public schools, remaining there four years, when he went to McOonnelsville to superintend the schools there. He remained there till the breaking out of the Rebellion, and in 1861, enlisted in the Seventy-eighth Ohio Infantry, and was appointed Captain of Company E. In 1862 he was appointed Chaplain of the regiment, and served in that capacity till the close of the war. Afcer his return home he agiin assumed thesuperintendency of the McOonnelsville schools, occupying that position three years, and at the s;une time preaching for the churches of Bristol and Deerticld. In 1868 he was called to the Presbyterian church, of New Plymouth. In 1877 he went to Hopkinton, Iowa, and was Pastor of the Presbyterian church two years. From there he went to Greenfield, 111., and in July, 1880, returned to New Plymouth. lie was married in August, 1857, to Mary V. McGraif. She died Aug. 19, 1864, leaving two children - Charles W. and Robert E. Sept. 10, 1807, Mr. Stevenson married Mary L. Cresap. They have no children.

S. T. IPMwas born in Tioga County, Penn., July 22, 1832. lie removed from there with his father at the age ot five years, and came to Ohio, locating on section 29, in Brown Township. Here he remained until he was twenty-three years of age, when he married Sarah Jane Gillabridge, Oct. 28, 1855, who was born June 5, 1837, in Vinton County. Their children are: Sarah Melissa, Mary J., Eli D., Hester A. and Joseph L. Mrs. Weed is a member of the United Brethren church. Mr. Weed has a farm of 140 acres on section 23, Brown Township, Vinton County. He has a fine vein of coal on his place.

Jacob White was born Dec. 19, 1844, in Athens County, Ohio, where he remained until 1SG9. He then came to Vinton County, where he has resided almost ever since. In October, 1S73, he was married to Jennie Coil, a native of Morgan County, Ohio, being born there in 1853. Mr. White has followed the saw-milling business for some time, but at present is engaged in farming and stockraising, lie has eighty acres of excellent land on section 12, in Brown Township, and may be classed among the rising young men of the township.

Was Vinton'S Gain

Jackson Township - When Changed from Eagle to Jackson - Its Water Courses - Early Settlers - Some Facts - County Honors - Population from 1840 to 1880 - Postoffices - Schools - Stock Keturns, 1883 - Assessed Valuation - Biographical.

Swan

Swan Township is bounded on the north by Hocking County, on the east by Brown Township, on the south by Elk Township, and on the west by Jackson Township and Hocking County.

The surface is generally hilly, yet is not rough and unbroken. The soil is very productive and some of the best farms in Vinton County, are located in Swan Township.

The first church was built in 1830 at New Mt. Pleasant, although there was one commenced but never finished in the south part of the township at an earlier date.

The first preacher was Rev. Coston, who was succeeded by the Pev. Gillruth, familiarly known as the giant preacher, as he was the strongest man in this section of the country, his strength being equal to the combined powers of two ordinary men.

The first school was taught by a Mr. Hill, and the second by Marker Shoemaker. There are now ten school districts, all supplied with comfortable school-houses.

The first mill was built in 1S23 by John Rager on little Raccoon Creek, although there had been horse-mills previous to this, but these were considered too slow, so water-power was brought into requisition.

^ Swan Township is the abiding place of the oldest man in Vinton County, Wm. Large, who was born in Hunterdon County N J., Feb. 23, 1789, and is past 94.

Swan postoffice was established in 1843, and its first Postmaster was Geo. W.Johnson. It is located at New Mt. Pleasant, and its present Postmaster is S. D. Sain.

Orland postoffice is located at Swan Station, on the Ohio & West Virginia Rail] oad. It was established at the time the railroad began running. Lucius Payne is the present Postmaster.

Cintra postoffice is located at Johnson's Siding, a small fla* station on the railroad. It was established in 1882, and the present Postmaster is John R. Prose.

Business

The principal business interest in Swan is agriculture. Among some of the prominent farmers are: George W. Johnson, Benson l>unkle Andrew, George and Charles Shurtz, James and Nathan Steel, Joseph Cox, John Bray, Simeon Morgan and William and Ihomas Rannells.

At New Mt. Pleasant is a store in which general merchandise is sold by M. P. Turner, and one near Siverly postoffice, kept by S. S. Albin. At Creola there are^two stores, one operated by Buchtel & Co., and the other by Bray & Son. There is also at this point one blacksmith shop. The above includes the business interests of Swan Township with the exception of the mineral interests.

New Mt. Pleasant

lies principally in Hocking County, yet a part of it lies in Swan Township, and it is here people of the northern part of the township get their mail, do their trading and go to church.

Iron Ore

This ore is found in large quantities in Swan Township. The principal deposits are along what is known as Potter's Ridge and near the village of Creola. Years ago, before the inhabitants knew the nature of this ore, it was called " Nigger heads " and was supposed to be worthless, and it was principally used to fill up ruts and mud holes in the roads. Later years its value has become known and companies are interested in its further development, and large quantities are shipped from Creola.

The township officers for 1883 are: Trustees, Thomas Ellis, Cyrus Shurtz and Robert Hayes; Clerk, Win. S. McClannalian ; Treasurer, Thomas Johnson; Justices of the Peace, George W. Johnson and John E. McYey; Constables, Andrew Clark and James O'Harro.

Assessment And Stock

The assessor's returns, June 1, 18S3, give the value of the personal property of Swan Township at $99,640. This township ranks third in the county in the value of its personal property, being only exceeded by Clinton and Elk. In the return of stock Swan had: Horses, 320; heads of cattle, 857; heads of sheep, 7,145; heads of hogs, 363. It was the second in horses, only being exceeded by Richland; second in sheep, Elk Township being first; fourth in cattle and sixth in hogs. a