Washington Township (part 1 of 2)

Washington Township

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP was organized March 4, 1 816, out of the east third of Troy, being the eleventh township organized in the county. It lies directly south of and joins Madison, and contains thirty-six square miles. The surface is somewhat broken, but the ascents and descents are gentle, and the soil generally very fertile. It abounds in many valuable springs of pure cold water, and is otherwise well watered by small running brooks, supplied from these springs. The Clear Fork of the Mohican crosses the southwest corner, along the valley through which the Baltimore & Ohio Railway passes. Possum Run rises in the center of the township, and passes out of it at the southeast corner. A tributary of the Rocky Fork passes out near the northeast corner of the township, running north into Rocky P'ork. Near this stream, and near the residence of Mr. Bentley, is one of the finest springs in the township, a large volume of the clearest water bursting from the bank and falling into a reservoir in Mr. Bentley's yard. This spring, with the assistance of the brook, some years ago furnished the power for Bentley's mill. The township was named after Ceorge Washington. Its organization was consummated at the house of Solomon Lee, at the center of the township. Immediately' after the organization had been completed, the election was held at the same place. Forty votes were cast. The election resulted in the choice of John Stewart for Justice of the Peace, and Solomon Culver, Sr., William Riddle and Daniel Dimmick for TrusteefS.

The names of the early settlers, as far as can be ascertained, are as follows : William Stewart, Section 10 ; John Stewart, Section 10, April. 1815 ; Solomon Culver, Section 3 ; James Sirpliss, Section 11, April, 1815; William Ayers. Section 4 ; Solomon Lee, Section 10, settled here before 181 G ; Mrs. Cunningham, Section 1 ; Daniel McMitchell, Section 30 ; William Riddle, Section 30 ; Daniel Cook, Section

Among the pioneers living in January, 1880, were John S. Smith. Solomon Culver, Mrs. Margaret Stewart (at the age of ninety-three), William Stewart, Thomas Pollock, Mrs. Eleanor Smith and Stephen Shaw.

Tliese were the persons who penetrated the heavily wooded hills and valleys of Washington, and laid the foundation of its present prosperity and wealth.

It will be seen that one of the earliest, if not the earliest, family in the township, was the Watson family. Noah Watson was one of the claimants at the ax presentation in Mansfield, Febrnary 10, 1858. The following letter was written by Mr. Watson on that occasion :

To Jabez Cook, Umpire : I, Noah Watson, certify that I helped to build the first two cabins in the vicinity of Lexington, and also did a job of clearing on Amariah Watson's first field, commencing about the 8th of March, 1812. I also entered the southeast quarter of Section 7, Range 18, Township 20, in which I now live, and commenced clearing in 1818.

]Mr. Watson was elected one of the first Constables in the township. At the close of his term, he concluded to make an estimate of the amount of business transacted and the pecuniary emoluments arising therefrom. After a cai'eful examination of the docket and other records, he found he had served two summons and two warrants, for which he had received no fees. He was not, therefore, under the necessity of employing an accountant to get his business in shape for final settlement.

He volunteered, in 1813, in Capt. Ichabod Nye's compau}', and started for the relief of Harrison at Fort Meigs. The siege was raised before their arrival, and their services were not needed.

John Stewart also became prominent in the township and county, being the first Justice of the Peace, and continuing in that office six consecutive years. In 1820 or 1821, he was appointed Auditor of the county by the Legislature, and, in the fall of 1 822, was elected to the same oflfice by the people, serving eight consecutive'years. In the fall of 1810, after the organization of the township, he was appointed County Surveyor by the Court, and held this office about eighteen 3-ears. In all, he serA'ed as a Justice of the Peace twent3'-two years.

here as early as 1812, when he came to enter land. He was a great hunter, and man}- deer, wild turkeys, bears and other animals fell before his unerring rifle. He remembers, on his first visit, talking to Chief Armstrong of the Greentown Indians. The chief told him he believed Wayne was a spirit, " For,'" said he, " I had three shots at him with a dead rest, and could not bring him down ; I could have killed a buck at twice the distance." He directed Mr. Smith to the Zimmer cabin for a night's lodging. This family then consisted of father, mother and a son and daughter, and the romance of this visit is that Mr. Smith fell in love with the beautiful daughter, Kate, and they were engaged to be married, when the Zimmer family was murdered - all except the son, Phillip, who happened to be absent. Mr. Smith had entered the land he afterward occupied, and returned to his home in Washington County, Penn., where he was when the tragedy occurred. He remained single until the family- came out here four or five years later.

Calvin Culver was also a great hunter, as was nearly all the early pioneers. On one occasion, he was pursued by wohes in the evening, and ran for the two cabins, then standing on the site of Lexington. He was unable to reach them, however, and was compelled to climb a tree, where he remained until morning.

Some weeks after Mr. James Sirpliss settled in the township, he, in company with one of his brothers, happening in the woods one day, half a mile from their cabin, came suddenly upon a black bear. Jowler, the dog, immediately gave chase, and the bear, being pushed, ascended a large poplar-tree. Being unarmed, the brother returned to the cabin for his rifle, while James and Jowler remained to watch. Before the l)rother returned with the gun. bruin, as if comprehending the situation, commenced descending. James and the dog immediately prepared to give him battle. I^pon aligliting, the bear elevated himself upon* his hind legs, and received tlie dog witli a blow that injured, for the time being, his fighting qualities. Mr. Sirpliss, having an ax, was about making an attack, when the bear l)ounded away and escaped, just before the arrival of the l)rother with his gun.

The first road through the township was the -'State road" from Mount Vernon to Bellville and Mansfield. This wais for a long time but a mere trail, and the only stopping-place on this trail, between Mansfield and Mount Vernon, was at McCluer's, near the site of Bellville. This was one of the first settlements in the county ; and this trail was established some time before the township was settled. Soon after the first settlement, a second road was cut from the vicinity of Lexington toward Bellville.

The first public-house in the township was opened at a very early day, hy Thomas Laughlin, on the State road, about six miles south of Mansfield, near the center of the township, and near the present Oberlin place. The majority of the earliest settlers entered the township b^' this road, and settled in the vicinity of and to the east of it, near where Washington Village was afterward laid out.

The first schoolhouse was Imilt on the State road, near the "tavern," about the center of the township, on Section 16. It was one of those Avell-remembered, primitive schoolhouses, described in another chapter, which have disappeared from this country with the Indian and deer, and will 3'et be occasionally found with the Indian and deer, in the Far \Yest. The first teacher was John Barnett, who came from (luernsey County. He taught six months, and received as wages $2 per scholar, for a term of three months. Sally Braden also taught school about 1818. She probabh' taught the summer school in the same building, following Barnett. One evenina;, while the school was engaged in prayer, just before the time for dismissal, a large yellow rattlesnake raised its head through a crack in the puncheon floor, and took a survey of the scene. No one dared to move, however, until the prayer ended, when the lioys dispatched his snakeship.

As early as 1820-21, this township was troubled with a compan}- of horse-thieves, counterfeiters, etc. Their operations extended into the adjoining townships and counties. Several of the gang; were well-known residents of this township, others lived in the direction of Perr3-sville, and others near Fredericktown and Mount "N^'ernon. Two men, named Gardner and Black, and two sons of the former were suspected. This band was quite numerous, and, for a time, had things their own way. It seemed impossible to convict them, although generally known. After losing several horses and much other property, and the insecurity continually increasing, the settlers finall}- organized, for the purpose of self-defense, what the}' called the " Black Cane Company." The company was composed of the most prominent settlers of the different neighborhoods molested by these ruffians. Each member carried a black cane, made out of the wood of a crali-apple or lilackhaw ; the liark being peeled off, and the canes burned lilack, after which they were oiled to give them a glossy appearance. A few of the names composing this company were Capt. Thomas Coulter, William Irwin, A. Rice, Isaac Martin, Thomas Martin, David Coulter, C. H. Rice, David Ayres, Charles Tannehill, Lewis Oliver. T. W. Coulter, John Capel, Solomon Grladden, ]Melzer Tannehill, Jonathan Coulter, James Irwin. Nathan Stearns, Harry Hill, David Hill, Reuben Hill, John Latty, Levi Taylor, John Coulter, and some others, whose names are not recollected.

By vigorous exertions, this company succeeded in clearing the neighborhood of the villains ; and peace and security reigned until about 1833, Avhen their services were again called into requisition, as the countiy was once more alarmed by the cr^' of horse-thieves and counterfeiters. This gang was also composed of some of the actual settlers (whose descendants are living there to-day), and others at a distance. They l^egan by stealing a horse of 3Ir. Taylor, on Hone}' Creek ; next a Eockingham colt, a valuable animal, from Alexander Rice : and then robljing IMr. Hart's store on Honey Creek, three miles south of Ha3'esville. This alarmed the country, and the Black Cane Company were soon marshaling their forces. It seemed to be the only way of ridding the country of this band, who could easily elude, or successfully resist, the officers of the law.

In retaliation for their pursuit, the A'illains burned the barns of Jonathan Coulter and William Irviu, and, about the same time, cut loose from its moorings a large flat-boat, loaded with three or four hundred barrels of pork, flour and whisk}', and allowed it to drift at random down the Black Fork. The boat and cargo were, however, saved. During the 3'ear the gang operated, almost ever}' house in the neighborhood was plundered of something. By the vigilance and exertions of the Black Cane Company and the citizens generally, this gang of rascals was finall}' driven from the township and country. Some of them were sent to the Penitentiary.

The first temperance society in Richland County, and indeed in this part of the country, was organized in this township. It was entirely indigenous to the soil of this township, none of its members having had any previous knowledge of such an organization. They early witnessed the baleful effects of strongdrink, and saw with a good deal of concern that its use among the settlers was increasing. A great number of distilleries were erected all over the township. Nearly all the corn marketed was at tliese distilleries, and whisky was consequently plenty and cheap. It was found by the barrel in almost everv cabin, and was in daily use. A few of these early settlers saw that this must be stopped ; that if they would escape the lilight of intemperance, some organized effort must be made. x\ meeting was therefore called on the 29th of March, 1827, at the house of Samuel Smith, in Monroe Township, near the east line of Washington, and organized by calling Thomas Smith to the chair and appointing Samuel Richey Secretary. Thomas and Samuel Smith and Alexander ^IcBride were appointed a committee to present a Ijasis of action, and soon presented the following :

Whereas, The common use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage is injurious to the liealth of the consumer, and ruinous to the morals of the community,

Resolved, That we form ourselves into a society to be known by the name of the Washington and Monroe Temperance Society, and that we adopt the followinopledge for our guide :

We, whose names are hereunto attached, do pledge ourselves to dispense with the common use of ardent spirits in our families, and at our gatherings and frolics and, as far as our influence extends, use all lau'lable means to discourage the use of it in otliers.

To this were attached the names of the Smiths, including Samuel, A'ernon T.. Thomas. Sr., and Jedediah ; Henry Mosar, Lambright Larnee, Joseph Coe, Robert McDermott. Levi Tarr, David Newlon, John and Lancelot Conwell. Joseph Reed, Alexander McBride, Henry Hull. George, David and John McFarland, Andrew Schosser, James, Richard and Roliert Sirpliss. Elias Hyser, and Wesley. Benjamin. John J. and John K. Barnes.

At first, the matter of getting along without whisky at log-rollings, raisings, etc.. was earnestly discussed, but it was finally tletermiued to adopt the above pledge for one }ear, at the end of which time they were to meet and report progress.

To counteract this, an anti-temperance society was organized, Init it did not last long ; they, however, outnumbered the other in names, ten to one. This temperance society had an organized existence for more than thirty years, meeting once a year, on the first night in every

January, and selecting officers and executive committees. There was nothing secret about it, as in the more fashionable tempei'ance societies of later days, but it was kept up for this extraordinary^ length of time by citizens who were public-spirited enough to work for the public good. It kept up its organization as long as there was anything to fight. There is not at present, and has not been for many years, a place in the township where whisky can be purchased. Their book finally contained the names of about six hundred members. It is impossible to calculate the amount of good accomplished by this first temperance society, not only during the period of its organized existence, but since that time, as the seed then sown is still exerting a powerful influence for good. No names are more worth}- to live in history than those of its projectors.

The first brick house was erected by Jedediah Smith. Amos Day was the builder, and while working with brick and mortar, he was working upon the affections of the eldest daughter, Martha Smith, whom he married.

The religious sentiment of the township is well developed, seven churches belonging to different denominations having been erected within its limits, six of which now have an organized and healthy existence. The first church orgaization, so far as known, was that of the Methodist Episcopal, about 1823 or 1824 ; their first meeting for organization being at the house of John Conwell. The first members of this Society were Wesley Barnes and wife, David Newlon and wife, John Conwell and wife, James Sirpliss, Henry Hull, Hemy Moser and wife, Richard Sirpliss. Jacob Reed, George, Robert and John McFarland and their wives, Benjamin and John J. Barnes and their wives, and Mar^^ Pollock. Their first meetings for several years were held at the cabins of Conwell and the Messrs. Barnes, l)ut, in 1828, they erected a log church on the site of Washington Villag-e, about 25x35 feet. Their first ministers were Abner Grough, Shadrick Rewark, Zepheniah Bell, Joseph Reed, John Powers and Andrew Poe. The present Pastor is Rev. Mr. Lewis. The log church was used until about 1850, when the present frame was erected, costing about $1,000. The present membership is about twenty-five (ir thirty. They generally have a Sunday school during the summer.

During the slavery agitation, between 1830 and 1840, this church was divided, political matters being carried into the pulpit. The occasion of the division was the sermon by Elder Powers, in which he took strong ground in favor of slavery. A strong abolition sentiment had taken root among the members, and had been for some time growing and increasing. (Iradually a feeling grew up among the church members which culminated in the before-mentioned sermon and a division of the church. Fourteen members withdrew and organized what that called the Wesleyan Methodist Church. The McFarlands were influential in this movement. They were strong Antislavery men, as were also the Smiths and many others of the pioneers in that vicinity. They were prominenth* connected with the -' underground railway." and assisted hundreds of slaves in making their way to Canada. This settlement is the one referred to in the history of Springfield Township, as a safe place to which to bring fugitive slaves.

The members who thus withdrew and organized this church were George, Robert and David McFarland, Henr}' and Joseph Moser, William Scott. John Boden and the wives of all these gentlemen. For several years, they worshiped in the old Methodist Episcopal Church, and then erected a church of their own. It was a frame, and cost about $1,000. This church was kept up about twenty years, during which they had regular preaching, and during which time, also, the cause of their troubles had disappeared in the smoke, din and blood of a great conflict. Their church building was finally sold, and is now used in Washington Village

About 1869, the former members of the Wesle^^an Methodist, or those that were left, and some other citizens organized a Congregational Church, tlie original members of which were John, George and Andrew McFarland, Ezra Davis, James Ritchie, William Boden, Charles Stone, Sr., and the wives of these gentlemen ; Joseph Flemming, Ezra and Thomas Smith and Mary and Ida Boden. Their meetings, for a year, were held in the other churches ; they then erected a frame church, yet standing, at a cost of $4,000, of which amount $2,200 were paid by (xeorge and Andrew McFarland. This church was dedicated by Rev. Dr. Fairfield, of the Congregational Church of Mansfield. Their ministers have been the Revs. Fry, Moon, Webster, Achman and Rojce. The present membership is about, thirty -five. The organization of the Sunday school was coeval with that of the church, the first Superintendent being R. B. Smith. Joseph Flemming is present Superintendent, with a membership of about one hundred. It is a union school, and is in a veiy prosperous condition, being continued during the entire year.

Two churches have been organized, and two church buildings erected in the southeast part of the township. In an early day, the few Albrights and United Brethren in that part of the township formed two separate organizations, and had preaching occasionally in the log schoolhouse. This continued for some years, when the two organizations united their financial resources and erected a brick church, which cost about $1,300, and which was to be used equally by the two organizations, and was, also, to be free to other denominations^ as the citizens generally assisted in the erection of the liuilding. Thus matteri=- continued until al)out ISGO, when they separated - the Albrights l)uilding another church further south, on Section 36. The old church is now occujjied by the United Brethren.

and is called Mount Tabler after a very enthusiastic minister of that name, who held a neverto-be-forgotten revival in the church, during which many members were added. A few of the first members in this organization were Ephraim Bull, William Xorris, John Smith and Jacob Magglott. The church is not at present in a flourishing condition, having only about fifteen members. There is no Sunday school connected with it.

The Albrights, in 1860. erected a frame church, which cost about $1,800. The first members of this organization were John Coates, Henry, Samuel and George Secrist. and the Clever family-. John StuU was founder and first Pastor. Their first organization was at Stull's house, now known as the Taylor place. They call their church Ehfuczer ; it is a live, active organization. A large union Sunday-school is connected with it.

A mile or more west of Washington Village stands the Church of Christ, better known as Campbellite or Disciple. It was organized about the year 1835, b}' John Reed. William Moody and William B. Hammett were the first Elders. The members of the first organization were Jacob Deems, William B. Hammett. Richard Braden and Jolm Boyd, and their wives : Betsey Braden and Samuel Braden.

Their first meetings were held at the houses of William B. Hammett and Richard Braden. and their organization effected in the old log schoolhouse of the district. Their first church was a small frame, and was built by the joint labor of the people of the neighborhood. The present building was erected in 1874, and cost aliout $2,000. Mr. Hammett, yet living, but aged and infirm, has been very active in this organization and in the erection of the churches. He contributed liberally of his means, working as a farmer, and preaching, almost without compensation, sixteen or eighteen years.

Tlie Sunday-school was organized about 18G4 ; is hirge and active for a country school, having about fifty pupils. James Black is present Superintendent.

In addition to the foregoing churches is the German Reformed, located on Section 22, near the center of the township, on the State road. This building was erected about 1847, of logs, and is still standing, though it has been weatherboarded over. This organization was effected al>out two years before the church was erected. Tiiey worshiped during tliese two years in an old log church, built in an earl}- day, by the Dunkards. about a half mile south of the present German Reformed Church. This Dunkard Church has long since disappeared, and the organization disbanded.

Quite a settlement of Germans are found in this section of the township ; the larger part of the original stock being from Western Pennsylvania, which, however, had the eftect to bringin a number of p]uropean Germans, who are excellent and thrifty farmers. Those who organized this church were Martin Toby, Peter Strader, Peter Shire, Conrad Englehart, John Strader, Christian Mull. J. W. Strader and the Kohisers.

The eai'ly preachers were Revs, llandchy, Tressel, Weiscotten, Lenshaw and Krause ; the latter continuing the ministerial relation about nine years. The present Pastor is Henry Walcer. and the present membership about sixty. A Sunday-school is maintained during the summer, with a membership of al^out fifty. At present, preparations are Ijci ng made to erect a new church.

The numerous and beautiful springs and running streams furnished water-power for a number of mills. In an early day, when the township was heavily wooded, and lumber was taken from the vicinity for building purposes, quite a numlier of saw-mills were erected in different parts of the township. Latterly, stationary sawmills do not pay ; but little lumber is now made from timber grown within the limits of the township, and this little is made by portable saw-mills, using steam power. The old water saw-mills have therefore disappeared forever. The houses of to-day are generally Imilt of brick, or else of pine lumber, purchased at the yard or lumlier depots.

The first saw-mill was erected about 181(i. and it is a question whether it was the one erected by Solomon Culver, three miles south of Mansfield on the State road, or the one erected by Robert Crosky. John Stewart also erected one of the early saw-mills, which was destroyed by fire. No stationary saw-mill, at present, exists in the township. The first grist-mill was erected in 1818, and it is also a question whether Mr. Phelps built the first one in the southwest corner. Section 31. or George Marshall on the southeast corner ; both are claimants for this honor. The second grist-mill was built in 1823, by John Stewart, and the third by Robert Bentley. The latter was erected very near the township line, and is mentioned in the history- of Madison Township. All the early mills, except the Stewart mill. Inne disappeared, and only their ruins mark the spot where the early pioneers waited hours, and sometimes even days, for their grinding. The Stewart mill has lieeu rebuilt and improAcd, but yet occupies the spot where it was first erected, and is doing good service, lioing now known as the -- Wickert mill." It is in the northern part of the township. About twelve or fifteen years since, a small grist-mill was erected by John Strasbach (who yet owns it), on Section 31, in the southwest corner of the township, on Clear Run. A saw-mill had been in operation here for many years before.

There is no town of consequence in tliis township. Washington A^illage was laid out where the road crosses, by John Conwell. Wesley Barnes and James Sirpliss. These gentle- men own the land divided by these roads. A round log schoolhonse was the first building erected in the place. It stood on the site of the present Congregational Church.

David Coulter was the first teacher in this house, and his pupils were the Smiths, the Barneses, Conwells, Sirphsses, Armstrongs and Pollocks. Mark Finnicum started the first store, soon after the town was laid out ; and Emilus Day the first blacksmith-shop. Rev.

James F. McGrraw, who, in addition to his ministerial labors, obtained something of a literary reputation, kept store here after Finnicum. There is no business at present in the village, except what is transacted at the blacksmithshop of Elias Hiser. Thirteen families yet reside in the town. It is hardly likely, judging from present appearances, that it will ever equal its namesake of the District of Columbia, either 'in proportions or importance.

Chapter Lxl

Ofganization - ToroGBAPHY - Impeovemknts - Eably Settlees - Incidents and Reminiscences of Pioneer Life - The Englishman's "Castle" - Soldiers in the Late War - The County Infirmary - Schools AND Churches - The Railboad - Olivesbubg - Superstitions.

WE L L E R TOWNSHIP was organized in the year 1846, from the original townships of Milton and Franklin, after Ashland County had Ijeen organized. That part of Milton Township lying east of the Black Fork remaining in Ashland County, and retained its original name as possessing the largest amount of territory. Two miles was then taken from the east side of Franklin and added to what was left of Milton, and erected into a new township and called Weller, and was subsequently' divided into six school districts.

The township contains within its limits a very fine l)ody of land, embracing ever}^ variety of soil, and well adapted for the production of grass or gTain, as well as every variety of fruit and vegetables. The Black Fork is the principal stream of water and traverses the township from west to east, entering at the northwest corner, near Urick's mill, and continuing an eastward course to Linn's mill, then turns south to the bridge, on the Wells farm, in the southeast corner of the township. The Whetstone, coming in from the north, and the Brubaker Run from the south, are important l)ranches. The land on these streams is extremely fertile, producing fine crops of corn and other cereals. The " Big Hill," as it is called, forms a prominent feature in this department. It rises about one hundred and fifty feet high, and is four miles in circumferance, more or less abrupt on its several sides, to a uniform altitude, and then drops to a level surface on the top, forming a table-land of great beauty and value for agricultural and horticultural purposes. There are about one hiuidred and fifty springs emitting pure, soft water which flows from its sides ; the geological formation being sandstone. A number of valuable quarries are in operation on different sides. There are also heavy deposits of potter's or fire cla}-. Specimens on the farm of John Ward were sent to Akron, Ohio, and to Lansing, Mich., for testing purposes, and pronounced at both factories to be first-class material for stoneware. Some indications of coal have been found cropping out at several points, but not sufficient to justify- a heav}" venture. About ten years ago, Thomas Clingau, living on the north side of the hill, employed men to bore for coal. They went down about one

Tlie wooded portions of the lull are eovered with a dense growth of chestnut, hickory and oak tinil)er. There ai'e men living on the hill now who can rememlter when the tall chestnut trees - now 100 feet high - were no thicker than a man's thumb. When the aborigines held possession, they burned the forests o\^er annually to prevent the undergrowth from obstructing the distant view of game. Heavy timber would not be affected by the lire, but the land was no doubt impoverished by consuming the decaying vegetable matter.

In early times, there was a saline springabout half a mile west of AVindsor Station, which spread out over a low, flat bottom-ground, forming an extended marsh, which the early settlers called '-The Deer Lick." This was a place of great resort, both of the Indians and also of the earl}^ hunters, to kill deer. It was once owned In' Jacoli Gardiner, a son of Archibald Gardiner, the first settler in those parts. (Tardiner was one of the best riflemen in the country. He made a small pen of poles, at a convenient angle, covered it with bark and brush, in which he would secrete himself and await the approach of the deer, which resorted here generally by moonlight, in the autumn of the year, to lick at the saline fountain. ^lany were the splendid specimens that were dragged out of that marsh.

On the east side of the hill there is a picturesque-looking cavern, that was called " The Snake Den," under whose massive rocks the rattlesnakes took refuge and propagated their fearfully hated race. John Dickson once improvised a party of snake-hunters and made a raid on the den, killing seventj'-five and wounding others.

la])ored under immense disadvantages and crushing embarrassments. When the scanty supply of flour or meal ran out, he must drop his ax or plow, and travel perhaps ten or twenty miles to a mill, or five to a blacksmith-shop. When his salt ran out, he must go or send sevent}- miles, and pay $10 a liarrel for it. Instead of the shapely plank to lay his cabin-floor, he must split up huge trees and hew puncheons for a floor. Then rushing waters must be bridged, swamps must be corduroyed, before travel was possible. Under such difficulties, it would be wonderful if education was not neglected - schoolhouses dispensed with for some time. Yet, considering these disadvantages, our fathers exhibited a praiseworthy energy in that direction, and schools were inaugurated in rude log cabins, and the most erudite of the settlers chosen as a teacher.

Among the first enterprises was the manufacture of whisky ; corn, being very low in price, could be made into whisky and sold at 25 cents a gallon. It constituted the chief article of commerce in those days, considerable being sent to Michigan, and was considered "legal tender " in any kind of trade. A few yards from where Windsor Station now stands, a distillery was run ])y a Deacon Williamson, who came from Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1817. The good Deacon, who was indeed a worthy man, would, after putting his buzzing, seething enginery in operation, take his seat at the place where the precious fluid made its exit, and, rubbing his hands together, would begin to sing - " Come, Thou fount of every blessing."

There was one or two more in the township, one of which was run b}' Jacob Osbun, near the infirmary, but was soon abandoned. The state of public sentiment changing on that matter, as soon as the temperance agitation commenced, yet how harmless, comparatively speaking, was the liquor manufactured then to the poisonous " rot-gut " sent out In* the millions of gallons at the present day.

Among the first settlers of Weller Township may be named the following : Benjamin Montgomer}', Elijah Charles, Jacob Osbun, 1814 ; A. A. Webster, Levi Stevenson, George Hall, James Mahon, James Havei-field, William Holson. Peter Pittenger. Francis Porter, Hemy Wikoff, John Dixon, John and James Feguson, 1815 ; from 1816 to 1819, came Moses Modie, James Grimes, Charles Stewart, John and Charles Palmer, Joseph Ward and Simon Morgan.

The first grist-mill built in the township was on the Whetstone, at Olivesburg, l:)j Benjamin Montgomer}-, in 1817. The first saw-mill was built by Elijah Charles, on the Black Fork, in 1818, and it is worthy of note here, that it is, perhaps, the onl}- saw-mill built in that early day that is in operation at this date over sixty years, and is now owned by David Lind. In the year 1816, Benjamin Montgomery was elected Justice of the Peace, and the same j-ear a small log schoolhouse was built on the west side of the Big Hill, and a small school improvised with James Mahon as teacher. The schoolhouse was on Levi Stevenson's land. Mr. Stevenson taught one term in the same house.

In 1820, Mr. Hall had some sheep killed by wolves, and as late as 1822, Joseph Ward, Sr., had fourteen sheep killed in one night in the woods, a mile from the house ; some others were killed in other parts of the township, but the names of the parties are forgotten.

In 1819, John E. Palmer settled on the south side of the hill, where there were three or four fine springs of water bursting out of the side of the hill. In the fall of 1820. Mrs. Palmer stepped out of the house into the wood-yard for some fuel. She had placed some chips in her apron, and was turning to go into the house when she discovered a huge black bear just a few yards from her. Uttering a scream, she sprang for the door, when a very fine, large Newfoundland dog, that Mr. Palmer had brought from London with him, whom he called Lord Nelson, sprang out of his kennel and made for the bear, which immediately broke for the chapparal on the hill-side, and " Lord Nelson " very discreetly contented himself with making a A^er}' vigorous demonstration in his rear.

Some excitement was produced in the summer of 1825, by the story of a Mrs. Church, that she had been pursued by a panther. She lived on the east bank of the Black Fork. On the south was an extensive swamp, stretching toward the Webster farm. She was returning home from a neighbor's in the dusk of the evening, and heard, or thought she heard, a panther scream behind her. She started to run and scream herself, the panther answering. She soon reached the Black Fork, which she crossed on a fallen tree, and there the chase ended. The story was not generall}- credited ; many thought the screams alluded to proceeded from a huge night-owl that was in the habit of making nocturnal visits in the neighborhood. At all events, people who had boys to send to the woods to hunt cows were anxious to have them take that view of the matter. Black and gi'ay squirrels were the most numerous and abundant of all other wild animals, and, while they were a little annojing to the fanners, 3'et the}' furnished them with thousands of meals of the most delicious meat.

During the war of 1812, Jacob Osbun was a soldier, and with a compan}- of men from Jefferson Count}' was sent out to fight the Indians on the Sandusky Plains and the Maumee. On their way out, he passed over Section 35, and being inipi'essed with the beauty of the location, timber, etc.. took occasion to mark with a hatchet a number of trees, with a view to future operations. On his return, he made the^entrjsometime in December. His son. William, owns and lives on the same farm now.

land. He was born in New York, was of English descent, and lived some time in Washington County, Penn. ; moved to the Pan-Handle, Va. thence to -Jefferson County, Ohio, and came to Richland in 1814. He was ninety years old when he died. Religious services were frequently held in his house in early times. His son, Judge Osljun, settled in Mansfield in 1815, was elected Justice of the Peace, and was for several years Associate Judge. He moved to his farm in this township in 1824.

P]lijah Charles came from Beaver County, Penn., to this township, in 1814, and built a saw-mill on the Black Pork, in 1818, which was of great service to the people. He went to Pittsburgh with a wagon, for the irons. He died shortly after the mill was set in operation, leaving a large family, who carried on the milling and farming business with great success, the oldest son, Isaac, adding a valuable gi-istmill to the property in 1835. He was soon after elected Justice of the Peace, serving two terms. In 1868. he moved to Bluffton, Allen County, Ohio, where he is supposed to have been murdered by his youngest son, Isaac, who is now in the State prison for life - a truly tragic ending of a useful life. All the male members of the the original family are now dead. Elijah, the fourth son of old Elijah Charles, died at the same age, and singularl}" enough, of the same disease, as his father. William Taggart married the third daughter. He was Commissioner of the county two terms, and subsequently made two trips to California, in the gold-digging enterprise.

Indians were lingering around some time after the introduction of the white settlers. Sometimes they were troublesome, even after the close of the war, often intruding themselves into the cabins, with their characteristic " Ugh ! me heap hungry ; Indian want some bread, some homiu}', some powder." The Charles family were annoyed two or three years by them, as they were a great terror to children.

In 1820, the Rev. Mr. Lee came from Westmoreland County, Penn., and bought a quartersection of land east of the Charles mill. He had a large family, of which John A. Lee, late of Mansfield, was the youngest boy. In a short time, the entire family was prostrated with fever and ague, and his oldest daughter, a very amiable young lady of seventeen summers, died of bilious fever. The rest of the family all recovered, only to be stricken down again the next autumn.

Between Mr. Lee's farm and the Charles mill was an extensive marsh, over which the waters of the Black Fork flowed at every succeeding freshet. Of course the miasma arising therefrom in autumn was fearful. Mr. Lee attril^uted much of the trouble to the mill-dam obstructing the channel, and thus throwing the water over the banks into the marsh, and proceeded to inaugurate a suit for damages, or effect a removal of the nuisance. A long, bitter and expensive litigation followed, the courts finally deciding against Mr. Lee, but compelling the mill-owners to cut a foot off their dam, which at that time backed the water three miles. Mr. Lee, disheartened and disgusted, sold his farm at a great sacrifice, and moved to Crawford County, Ohio.

In 1821, a local preacher, Joseph Curtis, came from England, and settled on the south side of the Big Hill. He was a good carpenter and farmer, and also filled the place of an undertaker, thus making himself doubly useful, for while he attended to the duties of an undertaker, he could, at the same time and place, preach an acceptable funeral sermon.

Mr. Curtis married Mary Woodhouse near Windsor, and raised a large family, one of whom (Beun^O enlisted in the army, and was killed at the battle of Chickamauga. A marble monument at Milton graveyard bears his image, taken from a photograph, but his body was never recovered - it sleeps on tlie blood-stained field of Chickamauga. William Curtis, the second son, was elected Captain of Company C, Oiie Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was sent to Virginia, Fort Reno, in the lUO-days service. Quite a numl)er of his company was made up of recruits from this township - Joseph H. Brown, Second Lieutenant ; Peter Sterritt, First Lieutenant ; Jacob Rohrer, First Orderly Sergeant ; James Hughes, Orderly ; David Berry, Levi Nelson, Allen Haverfleld, Ben Fgner, Chief Artificer ; Isaac Connelly, Third Sergeant ; William Houston, Winfield Houston, Benjamin Crabbs. Thomas Hughes. Joe Balderson, Amos Jump. M. Ozier, Marvin Seaton. J. W. Tucker, privates.

After his return from the service, he married the youngest daughter of John E. Palmer, and on the death of his father, which took place in 1864, he inherited the old homestead, which he sold, and moved to Illinois. He was not considered a very efficient officer, and was very unpopular with his men.

In addition to the company raised for the 100-days service above mentioned, most of which were from this township, quite a numl)er of volunteers went into other companies. Jacob Ward went in the Fifteenth, and was killed at the battle of Chickamauga ; Joseph W. Palmer, John Fickes, Bent Martin, Joseph Haverfield, Steven Clifl^brd and J. Miller were in the cavalry service - the former three in McLaughlin's squadron. Clifford re-enlisted, and went into the Ohio Battery. H. O. Pittenger, Milton Charles, Newton Charles went into the One Hundred and Second ; Martin Taggart. in the One Hundred and Twentieth ; was taken prisoner, and confined nineteen months ; Elmer Nelson was in the Fifteenth ; was taken prisoner and confined in Lil)by Prison and Andersonville ; Franklin Osbun, Lemuel Pittenger, I. Pittenger, Freeman Osl)un, Melvin Osl)un. James Weagl}' , James Mason were in the One Hundred and Sixty-third. Gaylord Ozier and his brother, Kemp Ozier, were taken prisoners, and kept in Andersonville ten months.

Henry Newman settled on the quarter section on which the Franklin M. E. Church stands in 1822, and donated the church one acre of ground, when that edifice was built. He was the oldest son of Jacob Newman, of Mansfield, one of the proprietors of that town ; came with his father before the war, when a boy, to where Mansfield now stands, and, with others at that day, encountered many difficulties and dangers from Indians and other sources. He taught school several terms when young. In the spring of 1822, he commenced opening up his farm, and soon after married Miss Jane Ward. He had three sons and four daughters ; all his boys went into the service. Capt. Jacob Newman (the oldest) was shot through the body at the battle of Shiloh ; the surgeon, considering his case hopeless, refused to di-ess his wound for twenty-four hours after the battle. He was sent to Pittsburgh on the lioat. where his mother met him, and nursed him into life, and he returned to sendee. Joseph, the second son, was mortally wounded at the battle of Mission Ridge, and died soon after. He was for some time attached to the staff of Gen. Williams.

Capt. Andrew Newman, the third son, went through the entire service ; at the battle of Jonesboro, behind Atlanta, half his regiment fell. After the close of the war, he entered college and studied law, but his constitution was shattered, and he broke down, and slowly sank to rest.

William Houston, of 01ivesl)urg, came from the State of Delaware in 1815. and entered a half-section of land adjoining what is now the village of Olivesburg. He had five sons - JomUhan, Richard. Joseph. William and Robert. He was chiefl}' instrumental in the building of the first Presbyterian Church, and also the first schoolhouse. He furnished all the siding for the church, and hauled it with his team from

James Mahon came from Harrison County, Ohio, in 1815, and entered half a section of land on the " Big Hill." He taught the first school in the township in the log schoolhouse on Levi Stevenson's farm in 1816. He died in 1820 or 1821.

One of the most prominent and useful families of early times were the Halls. They came from Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1815. Mr. Hall had five sons and three daughters, all members of the Presbyterian Church. He entered three quarter-sections of land on the Black Fork, in the southeast corner of the township, in 1815, and, having a strong force of muscular and industrious young men, soon opened up a fine farm. The oldest son married a INIiss Ralston, of Plymouth. Mr. Maxwell, late of Mansfield, married the oldest daughter, though rumor has it that it was a runaway match, but proved to be a most felicitous one. Judge Lee, of Bucyrus, married the youngestdaughter. The entire family have all passed away - the last member died more than ten years ago. The first sermon preached by a Presbyterian minister in this neighborhood was in Mr. Halls house, by Rev. James Rowland. Mr. Hall was fond of a good horse, and was remark able for keeping the finest lot of fat horses in the township.

In connection with Mr. Halls history, it would be proper to make mention of a terrific whirlwind that swept over his farm in the year 1824, and the only one of that character that has visited this township in sixty years. It threw down every fence on the farm, carrying fence-rails through the air.

The best barn in the township, at that time, was on this farm. It lifted the heavy, new shingled roof off as if it had been a cobweb, and, what was most remarkable, a hewed log, lying in the lane, half buried in mud, was taken

The next day, fifty men collected on the farm to gather up the debris, and collect what materials were available for further use, and bring order out of chaos.

The year 1859 was memorable on account of the unprecedented heavy frost of that year. The preceding winter had been favorable for the protection of winter wheat, and, when spring opened, the wheat was unusually fine, and the prospect for an abundant harvest was never more cheering in the entire history of this township. Some fields of corn on favorable ground was nearl}- knee-high by the 5th of June. Although slight frosts had occurred during the months of April and Ma}', no material damage had been done ; all kinds of fruit were doing well ; apples were as large as hickory-nuts, and wheat was all out in head and in much of it the grain was partly formed. About the 1st of June a light rain fell, after which it turned colder. The weather continued cloudy and cold for two or three daj's, and on the 4th it snowed a little during the day.

At sunset, the wind dropped ; the sun settingclear. By 0 o'clock P. M., the mercury was falling very fast ; the stars were unusually brilliant ; not a sound was heard in the air ; no whip-poor-will raised his night-song ; no chirping cricket lifted its unmusical voice ; all was silent as the house of death - and the house of death indeed it was, for the '- destroying angel "" was abroad in the land, sweeping down tens of thousands of aci-es of the finest grain-fields that ever waved before the breeze, or delighted the eye of the huslnxndman.

The morning' sun rose on a scene of indescribable grandeur and desolation. The meadows, the wheat-fields, corn-fields and gardens were thicklv covered over with frost-crvstals glistening and dancing in the morning sunlight. The work of destruction was complete ; everything was frozen stiff. Under the powerful re-action from the rays of the morning sun, the corn wilted and soon fell to the earth, the ground being frozen down to the roots of the corn. On a farm on the Black Fork, a large ii'on kettle, half filled with water, was so frozen over, that a heavy man got on it with both feet and tried in vain to break it. It is worthy of note here, that there was a fi'ost in every month in the 3'ear of 1850.

There was great sympathy manifested in those days for each other, and when one neighbor became distressed, the others would rush to his assistance with a perfect fervor. ^Ir. Hall died about the year 1832, regretted and respected by all his neighbors. His son Roliert inherited the farm, and married a very amiable lady by the name of Walker, but died in four years after, of consumption, leaving one child.

Abel A. Webster came from the State of Connecticut in the fall of 1814, and settled on the Black Fork, one mile north of the Hall farm. He was the only man from the State of Connecticut in the township. He was a man of means, and was soon able to clear out a fine farm, so that when later settlers came in, about 1819-20, he had produce to sell them at his own figures. He was skeptical in his ^iews, and although the wealthiest man in the neighborhood, he never could be induced to contribute a dollar to build a church, college, railroad or any other enterprise of the day. He sold his farm in 1859 to Mr. Minster, who married his daughter and now resides on the farm. He soon after removed to Cleveland, where he died at the advanced age of eighty-eight ^ears.

John Dickson came to this township in 1815. He entered the quarter of land joining Elijah Charles on the south, and married the oldest daughter of Mr. Charles in 181S. In 1830, he formed a partnership with William Taggart, and built a grist-mill on a spring rising out of the Big Hill side, and, two years after, built another grist-mill about forty rods below the other, on the same stream. He was a man of great physical strength and endurance, an excellent workman and hunter ; had very black hair and black eyes. His entire face and bosom were so thickly covered with hair as to hide the skin. He was generous in his impulses, honest in his dealings, and an accommodating neighbor. In the days of '' corn-huskings," he was first choice in a race ; he would become so excited sometimes in an exciting race as to leave marks of blood on the corn-husks from his lacerated fingers. These simple facts are given simply to exhibit faithfully the spirit of the times half a century ago, and the habits of our fathers. The last days of this good citizen were shrouded in melancholy and gloom. A dark shadow had fallen over the threshold of his domestic relations, and the cloud never lifted from his brow, or the load from his heart. He became a wreck, mentally and physically', and never did the weary heart look forward with deeper longings for the grave that should cover it. or the spirit with earnest yearnings for the Ijrighter and lietter land, than did his.

Samuel Pittenger came to this township with his father, Peter, in the year 1815, landing on the 17th day of Febi'uary of that year. The family made the entire journey from Harrison County on sleds. Samuel was the oldest son, and became the "Nimrod" of the famity. suppl34ng them with venison for several years, until stock could be raised. He killed his first deer on the 'Big Hill," soon after landing, and has killed as high as twenty-eight deer in fourteen consecutive days. He was married in 1819 to Elizabeth Kent, and settled on the northwest corner of his father's farm, where he lived seven years, and removed to Greene Township, where he resided six years, and then returned to his present location, where he celebrated the sixtieth anniversary of their wedding, a few months ago. He is now in his eighty-fifth year, and Mrs. Pittenger in her eightieth. There is a cabin that he assisted in building, in the year 1817, still standing on the farm now owned by H. G. Palmer. It is the oldest cabin known in the township. It was built and owned hj a man by the name of Ensign, who was at that time a Swedenborg preacher, but subsequently became a Methodist, as his name appears on the minutes as an exhorterin 1829, in the official records of the M. E. Church, Mansfield Circuit.

Levi Ste^-enson came from Beaver Count}', Penn., in the year 1815, and settled on the section northwest of the Big Hill. He was a good mathematician, and was employed in the year 1818 to teach school in a little log cabin, built on the southeast corner of his land. It was in the days of " barring out," and a number of the young moai attached to the school gathered before da3dight on Christmas morning and barred " the master" out to make him " treat." Uncle Levi C00II3' surveyed the premises, and thinking no doubt that it was a long lane that had nO' turn in it, proceeded to climb the corner of the domicile, and without further ceremony jumped down the chimney, although there was a roaring fire of hickory- logs, ten feet long, to receive him. The insurgents " took in the situation," and surrendered at discretion. Uncle Levi could not say that he came out without the smell of fire on him, but no serious damage resulted ; but never was a pair of liuckskin Ijreeches in more serviceable demand than on that memorable occasion. He had four sons, William S., John, Andrew and Samuel. The last named still lives on the old homestead.

John E. Palmer came from the cit}' of London, England, to this township in the year 1819. He bought half a section of land of William Holson, and commenced making improvements in the fall of the same 3'ear. His brother, Charles Palmer, and himself, brought a small stock of dr\'-goods, chiefly calicoes, with them, which sold for high prices at that da}-. The}' brought

Mr. Palmer engaged actively in all the moral enterprises of the day, such as tlie temperance movement, the antislavery question, etc. He assisted in the organization of the first Congregational Church in 3Iansfield, of which he was one of the first Deacons. For many years, he was connected with the underground railroad, and never was liappier than when rolling away a wagon load of quivering fugitives by the pale light of the stars toward the Canada shore.

John Crabbs settled half a mile west of Olivesburg in 1817. He came from Jeflferson County. He married Polly Montgomery in 1818, and is now living on the same farm with the same wife ; they celebrated their golden wedding two years ago. A large fatty tumor has been growing on his shoulder for twenty years. In November. 1879, Dr. Craig, of Mansfield, assisted by Dr. Crabbs, of Olivesburg. successfully removed the tumor. He remained unconscious three weeks after the operation, but is recovering slowl}'. He is now in his eighty-fifth year.

Thomas Robinson emigrated to this township from England in the year 1821. He bought a quarter-section of Isaac Hanly. and afterward sixty acres of Israel Graham. There was a small improvement on each place, situated on the '- Big Hill." Robinson was a man of singular notions and habits of life. He had plenty of money to do what he took in his head, and he conceived the idea of grubljing up all before him, when he cleared land, taking out trees three or four feet over. As a matter of coiirse, it was a losing business financially, but it gave employment to poor men, and scattered his guineas round the neighborhood, where the}' were badly needed at that time. After staying two or three years, he returned to England, as he said, to get another wife, which important mission he accomplished in seven years, and then returned and recommenced grubbing up trees, etc. He also built a large brick house, made of bricks of extraordinary large size. He also built the first frame barn in the township.

The house above mentioned was remarkable for its immense cellars, which were all arched with stone. These were not properly constructed, and proved the ruin of the house by spreading the foundations, the walls cracking, and finally falling by piecemeal. It has not been clearly demonstrated whether the fall was great or not, but it fell, and the indications went to show, that Mr. Robinson, in more ways than one, did not build his house upon a "rock." He lost ,his fourth wife in 1842, and in the spring of 1843, returned to England, where he died.

A few years ago, a Sunday-school picnic from Ashland landed at Windsor Station, and made a raid over the Big Hill, taking in their rounds the ruins, of the fallen castle. On leaving the ruinc it was observed by Mr. Robinson that each one of the party was carrying away a brick. He called the party to a halt, and gruflfly inquired, what in thunder they were carrying off' his bricks for.

The spokesman of the party preceded to explain, that they had heard down at Ashland that a rich lord from England had built a wonderful castle here once, that he was something of a Blue Beard in his character, that four wives had mysteriously disappeared, some thought, in the arched vaults of the cellar, etc., etc., and finally that an earthquake had shaken down the house, and buried the vtnfortunate wicked lord in the ruins ; and that with this romance burning in their brains, they were carrying away the brick to keep as a souvenir, and one brick to deposit in the cabinet of curiosities in the Ashland Academy of Science.

At this wonderful story, Mr. Robinson's eyes dilated. He at once proceeded, with impressive voice and gesture, to strip this romantic legend of some of its superfluous verbiage, and put things in something like matter-of-fact form, such as would do to go into the history of Richland County. It is needless to say that quite a change came over the spirit of their dreams, and before the party reached the station on their return home, there was not a brick to be found in the hat of one of those boys. The teachers felt pretty badly sold.

In 1862-63, the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad was built, which enters Richland County and Weller Township on the east side of the township, at the crossing of the Black Fork, and running west to the west line of the township, where it makes a sudden curve to the soiith, to Mansfield.

There is a comfortable station-house at the crossing of the Windsor & Olivesburg road, commodious switches and spurs, and convenient accommodations for loading and unloading stock. There is considerable business done in the way of shipping stone, staves, lumber, grain, etc., from this point, though but little enterprise is manifested in building up a town. The old village of Windsor, three-fourths of a mile south, is dwindling away.

The railroad bridge over the Black Fork, one mile east of the station, broke down under a freight train in 1871, and all the train was precipitated into the river. The crash was fearful, but by a wonderful providence, none of the employes were killed or even seriously hurt, though some were pulled out of the water from under the debris. A wrecking train was improvised and all hands put to work, and a new bridge built as soon as practicable, which has stood the pressure since.

The oldest man living within the bounds of the township is a Mr. Smith, living at Olivesburg, who claims to be ninety-eight years old. He is yet a hale old man, chops his own wood, and to all appearances, he is good for another half century.

There are fifteen persons in the township who have lived therein sixty years, viz., Samuel Pittenger, Nathaniel Pittenger, James Hagerman, William Hagerman. William Ferguson, John Ward, Samuel Stevenson, John Crabbs, Richard Houston, Robert Houston, Isaac' Council and Francis Porter - twelve men,- and three women, viz.. Mrs. Morgan. Mrs. John Cline and Mrs. Taggart.

The Richland County Infirmary is situated in the center of Weller Township. It is beautifully situated on the western slope of the Big Hill, on the Mansfield & Olivesburg road. In accordance with an act of the Legislature, proceedings were inaugurated by the Count}' Commissioners, in the j-ear 184G, toward its erection. William Taggart, William B. Hammett and John McPool were acting in that capacity at that time. The farm of one hundred and sixty acres, was bought of the heirs of Nathaniel Osbun, and the contract for making the brick and putting up the building was given to Col. Weaver, of Ganges, for $4,500. As Col. Weaver claimed he had lost money in the enterprise, the Commissioners humanely added a little pile to it as extras, but the house was finished, and, the following year, was occupied in accoixlance with its legitimate purpose. The first Board of Directors elected to take charge of its conduct were Richard Condon, Christopher Horn and Samuel Lind.

These men appointed Lowry Sibbet, of Mansfield, as Steward, and his lad}', Mrs. Sibbet, was dul)"- installed as Matron. The institution was managed as well, perhaps, as the average of such institutions throughout the State, and, as a benevolent institution, was a credit to the country. The average number of paupers accommodated within its walls was aljout seventyfive or eighty.

In June, 1877, the old building burned down, and great inconvenience was experienced in making temporar}' provision for the inmates till another building could be provided.

Plans and specifications were presented during the year 1878, and, in the spring of 1879, the contract was let to Sheets & Frayer, and the work commenced. The building is much more elaborate and expensive than the old one, and will cost between $30,000 and $40,000. It is n very handsome building, and makes a fine appearance from the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad. The present officers, under whose directions it was built, are William Newlon, J. F. Gerhart and Peter Snapp. Present Steward in charge is William Gates.

There was a school organized about the same time on Jacob Osbun's farm, at that time in Franklin Township (now Weller), adjoining the infirmary, and was taught by John Hagerman, and, in the winter of 1819-20, Joseph Ward taught a school on the south side of the Big- Hill, and the winter following, in a log cabin on the farm of Mr. Hall, on the Black Fork, at which time and place the Hon. Barnabas Burns, of Mansfield, commenced his education, also James Rait, of Mansfield. This rustic seminarjhad greased newspapers for windows. The fireplace extended nearly' across the east end, into which chasm immense piles of beech and sugar logs were rolled b}' muscular students. The master was favored with a splint-bottomed chair for his throne, but the students had seats made of split-rails, placed with the soft side upward.

The first schoolhouse making an}' pretensions to respectabilit}' was built at Olivesburg in the year 1824. This was a substantial, hewed-log house, twent}' feet square, glass windows and good stove in the middle. The above-named gentleman (Joseph VVard) taught the first four terms in it. This was the first school continued through the summer season. His article of agreement stipulated that one-third of his pay sliould be in corn, one-third in maple-sugar and one-third money.

It was not till the year 1854. that the township was thoroughly organized into districts, and a Board of Education appointed, and a good frame house put up in each sub-district. The first Board of Education met at Isaac Charles" house, and was composed of the following members : Charles Palmer, Sr., John Ward. Elijah Charles, Daniel McCormick, James O. Hagerman and James Walker, since which time the schools have prospered, with regular sessions winter and summer.

The first religious service in this township was held at Peter Pittenger's house, conducted 1)y Rev. John Clingan. Preaching was continued for some time at his house by the Methodist ministers before any church was built. In 182(1, a log church was built on the land of Nathaniel Osbun. now the infirmar}' farm, and services held occasionally. The first church of any size or comfort was built by the Presbyterians at ( )livesburg, in the year 1827. It was a good frame house for those days, and cost $500. Rev. William Mathews was Pastor ; \Mlliam Houston, Abel ^Montgomery and Joseph Burget were the Deacons.

John Crabbs, John Owens and James Grodwin were the Elders ; Joseph Ward, Clerk, and James Laughlin, Treasurer. In 1831, Mr. Nathan retired and Rev. James Robinson was installed Pastor and continued a number of years. The church is not more than half as strong at the present time as it was fifty years ago. In the year 1849, the old church buildingwas removed, and a new one built on the site in 1852. The present Pastor is Rev. Mr. Boles.

The first Methodist Church in Olivesburg was built in 1840. Rev. M. Kinnear was Pastier; Dr. Mitchell and Isaac Charles, Trustees. It burned down in 1848 and Avas relmilt in

The M. E. Church at Frankton was built in the 3'ear 1837. The preachers were Revs. Gavitt and Yokum ; the Trustees, Charles Palmer, Henry Newman, William Ferree, Andrew Oswalt. The church cost $500.

First M. E. Church at Milton was built in 1839. Pastors, Adam Poe, A. L. Harris ; Trustees - Joseph Curtis, Henr^' Pittenger, M. Mason and Ezra Osbun. Second church was built in 1875. The Pastors have been John McNabb and C. C. Ball; Trustees, William Ferguson, John Ward, H. O. Pittenger, William Hagerman, William Robinson, William Wells and S. S. Harnly. It cost $2,400.

The first parsonage in the township was built in Olivesburg in the year 1847. Trustees - Jacob Crabbs, Charles Palmer, Joshua Ford. It was occupied severally by Revs. Hubliard Duliois. Jacob Fegtly, John jMcNabl), John Whitworth and others. In the year 1876, it was sold, and a more commodious and convenient house built near Windsor Station, in close connection with Milton Church, and costing about $1,200. Trustees - John Ward, William Ferguson, Heniy Gollada}', James Hughes and William Foulks. It is beautifulh' situated on the southern slope of the Big Hill, 'and, with its rather picturesque surroundings, presents a pleasing view during the summer season, from the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad. It frequentl}^ calls out remarks of passing strangers. The present Pastor occupying it is the Rev. C. I. Russel.

Sabbath schools were organized first in the year 1828 l)y a Mr. E. Judson, of Milan, Ohio, at Olivesburg and at Fleming's Falls. James Godwin, Superintendent at Olivesburg; Thomas Wilson, Superintendent at Flemings, and Levi Horseman, Secretary.

Superintendent; Joseph Ward, Sr., Secretar}' and Libi-arian. A collection was taken up here and forwarded to New York for books, and these were the first Sabbath-school books introduced into the township. There was a small school also in the west part of the township, with Charles Palmer as Superintendent. All these schools went down after a brief struggle for support ; but after the building of commodious church edifices at the various points already indicated, they were all reorganized on a permanent Imsis, and have continued with brief intermissions ever since. Some of them are ver}' prosperous and successful. These schools were superintended alternately by Ezra Osbun, John Ward, William Hagerman, Newton Charles. Freeman Osbun, and others at Milton ; Charles Palmer, James Hughes, Henr}' Golladay, Allah Haverfield, David Hughes and others, at Franklin, and Dr. Crabbs, William Burget, William Foulks, at Olivesburg.

The village of Olivesburg was laid out by Benjamin Montgomery in the year 1816, and called Olivesburg in honor of his oldest daughter, Olive. In 1821, the village contained one tavern, kept by Benjamin Montgomery ; one blacksmith-shop, b}' Abel Montgomery ; one tailor-shop, by John Grum ; one cabinet-shop, b}- Thomas Beach ; one tannery, by Joseph Burget ; one horse-mill and water-mill, by Jonathan Montgomer}^ ; one wheelwright-shop, by William Lee, or James Hall, and about the usual per cent of loafers.

It was suggested to the writer by an old settler, that the history of Weller Township would be incomplete without some allusion to the witchcraft excitement that prevailed some fift}' years ago. It will, perhaps, ])e looked upon by some as a matter almost incredible that such things took place at so comparatively recent date, and we should feel reluctant about placing them on record were there not living witnesses to substantiate all the statements made here: It was about the year 1831 or 1832, that a family living on the farm now occupied b}- the county infirmarj', conceived that they were annoyed by enemies who were endowed with the powers, qualities and attributes of witchcraft. A Mrs. Holstein, living at that time on the farm now occupied l)y Alanson Martin, was one of the parties thus charged, and that, in the exercise of powers and capacities above mentioned, they entered into their churns, sugar-kettles, etc., and prevented the butter from coming and the sugar from graining, etc. At other times, the old lady would fancy they had taken partial possession of her person, and she would commence a series of gymnastic performances, swaying her bod}' and limbs to and fro, looking m3'steriousl3- out into vacancy and uttering sepulchral tones ; then she would take a silver half-dollar and clap it on the calf of her leg and kick like a mule in her efforts to throw it off In the night, mysterious noises were heard up-stairs and down ; there were hissings and screechings, and run- ^nings to and fro. In the morning, piles of meal 'would be found in one corner, piles of salt in another, and torn shreds of old faded calico dresses would be scattered hither and thither. Neighbors were called in to witness the proceedings," and, according to the Scripture. '- some believed, and some believed not." A large portion of the more intelligent part of the community scouted the whole thing and stood aloof from all the proceedings. It was thought by many, that the object of the old woman was to excite hatred toward old 3Irs. Holstein. The excitement, however, continued to increase in a class of community who either did, or feigned, to believe it. Finall}-, a meeting of the " believers '-' was called to take steps looking toward the abatement of the nuisance. A man by the name of WA'coff, a connection of the troubled family, was Chairman of the meeting- weight - on a pair of scales - of ver}' indolent habits, but a more inoffensive, goodnatured man there was not in the county of Richland. Wycoff and his confreres, on the occasion aboA-e alluded to, held a kind of " experience meeting," in which each one is supposed to have told " what I know about witchcraft," and its probable cause and cure. The conclusion of their deliberations was that the witch should be shot, not in dramatis jyersono', but by proxy. So they very gravely went to work, and, with the aid and assistance of the female department of the house, took wheatflour and created a dough image, made after the "similitude and likeness" of a sinful and erring old woman, whose presence was now invoked with mysterious incantations. It was then placed on the corner of an outside, oldfashioned mud and stick chimney, at a convenient angle, with a big forked cherry-tree, where an excellent marksman was placed, with a rifle loaded with a silver bullet which had been melted down from two or three old, smooth sixpences that had been previously well soaked in buttermilk from which no Initter would come. The nerve of the marksman was good, and his aim was true. No better nerve was ever exhibited by "Fitz James or Roderick Dhu," considering the conditions. 8ir Walter Scott's heroes pale before him. The silver bullet was true to its magic charm and '' accomplished the end whereunto they sent it." At all events, the poor innocent image was bored through and through ; and it was not three days till there was a report circulated all through the neighborhood that there was a corresponding wound in poor old Mrs. Holstein's side or bosom. It is a veritable fact, however, that Mrs. Holstein died shortly after these ridiculous transactions, which served to strengthen some in the faith. The writer hereof was present the year after these things took place, when a witch-doctor was sent for, who lived two miles north of Mansfield, who claimed to have power to exorcise evil spirits. He went out to the sugar-camp and muttered something over the sugar-kettles, to make the sugar ''grain" good. He appeared to be an honest Pennsylvania Dutchman, talked liroken English, charged a small fee for his services, stayed all night with the family, and, early in the morning, left them with his blessing. This was about the winding up of the era of witchcraft.

Absurd and ridiculous as these things were, they had their counterpart in the spiritual rapping period, a quarter of a century later. Not more than a mile from this same locality, on the farm owned at that time by Henry Newman, and rented b}' a man named Heppard, some very extraordinary things took place, and the family was kept in a terrific state of alarm and excitement for weeks and months by similar noises, thumping, rapping and tearing round the house in the night : and no satisfactory solution of the strange proceedings ever came to light. But these singular manifestations, like the former, have all passed away, and we look back upon them with mingled feelings of wonder and incredulity.

Chapter Lxil

Organization - Streams, Springs and Timber - Abner Davis - Scenery along the Clear Fork - Fair View Rock - Chasm Rocks - Hemlock Falls - Slanting Rock - Eagle's Nest - Pioneer Threshing Floor - IsDiAN Hill - Prospect Hill - Fountain Cavern - Giant's Plowshark - Watt's Hill - Uriim-isg Rock - First Settlers - Thk Pigeon Roost - Adventure with a Bear - Mills - Churches - Newville - Winchester - Independence - Helltown - The Old Indian, Lyons.

" Ye who love the haunts of Nature, Love the sunshine of the meadow, Love the shadow of the forest. Love the wind among the branches, And the rain-sliower and the snow-storm. And the rushing of great rivers Through their Palisades of pine-trees. And the thunder in the mountains. Whose innumerable echoes Flap like eagles in the eyries; Listen to these wild traditions."

THE township was erected June 6, 1815, out of the east half of Greene, being then twelve miles long from north to south, and six miles wide. Thus it remained until February 11, 1817. when Monroe was created out of its north half leaving it in its present shape, six miles square. It is now in the southeast corner of the country. It was named after Gov. Worthington. of Ohio. Its surface is broken and hilly, especially along the Clear Fork, where the scenery is picturesque and beautiful. It is well watered by the Clear Fork and its tributaries ; this stream entering the township about the center of its Avestern side, its course being generally northeast, leaving the township on its way to the Black Fork, about the center of Section 2. It is a clear, rapid stream, tumbling down among the hills, over a rocky and pebbl}' bottom. It must have been, long years ago, a very paradise of the red man. Slaters Run and its tributaries water the northern part. It passes from west to east across the northern ner of the township, and, passing north, empties into Clear Fork at Independence ; and Cold Run. coming from the southeast, joins the Clear Fork a short distance below Independence. In addition to these, numerous beautiful springs burst from the hillsides in ever}- direction.

Ever}- part of it was once densely wooded ; ever}^ species of hardwood gi'owing with great strength and beauty. Much of this timber has been cleared away, but even yet the hills along the Clear Fork, and patches of ground all over the township, are covered with timber of the best qualit}'.

The only railroad in the township is the Baltimore & Ohio, which enters its western boundary- with the Clear Fork, running parallel with it to Independence, where it makes a curve. passing out on the same boundary' line about a mile from the southwest corner.

Among the most noted springs is one on the land now owned by the heirs of Al)ner Davis, two and a half miles southeast of Newville. This Mr. Davis was once robbed of $1,100 in gold, and recovered his monej' in a peculiar manner. Three men came to his house one bitter, cold night, before he had retired, and, presenting a pistol to his head, demanded his money. After getting the money, the robbers departed, and, becoming somewhat bewildered l)y the siiow-storin. wandered about until two of them froze to death, and, when fonnd, the third was badly frozen, but survived, and was afterward sent to the penitentiary. The money was all recovered.

The magnificent rock}- country' in the vicinity of Newville is, without doubt, the most interesting geographical feature in the county. In the earl}' liistor}' of the country, these great rocks formed a secure retreat for the various wild animals, and dens for an immense number of yellow rattlesnakes. Hundreds of these reptiles have been seen and killed by the early settlers among these rocks. The bottoms along the Clear Fork are exceedingly rich, where they are extensive enough for farming purposes ; occasionally, however, the high rocky bluffs crowd the little stream into a narrow gorge, and the tiller of the soil must let these hills and rocks alone in their natural state forever. A narrow road borders the creek, clings to the hillside and wanders among the great rocks, which, jutting from these young mountains in great profusion, frown darkly upon the passer-by, silent monuments of lost races and ages.

The banks of tlie stream in their primeval state were covered with a luxuriant growth of vegetation, among which are the most beautiful wild flowers and flowering shrubs. With all this beauty, it is not pleasant to think of the slimy yellow rattlesnake creeping beneath these flowers, in such vast numbers as to render a walk along the banks of the stream, in an early day, a ver}^ dangerous undertaking.

Fair View Rock received its name from the extensive and magnificent view to be obtained from its summit. A view of the valley may be had for some miles up and down the stream.

To the right of this are Chasm Rocks, which consist of detached masses thrown off' from the main cliff", by some convulsion of nature in past ages, forming a deep rent in the rocks. In some places, this rent is four, and in others ten, feet across. These chasms are winding, tor tuous and open at the top, for the most part. This is an interesting point for the visitor, but space will not permit a description ; neither is it considered necessary, for these things will stand forever as they are. No human power will ever be exerted to change them, and it is sufficient that their locality be pointed out by the historian.

Hemlock Falls, a highly interesting and romantic natural curiosity, is situated about one and a half miles south of Newville, near the road leading to Danville, in Knox County, about one-half mile from the Clear Fork. This locality is noted as being the resort of Indians in earlier times, and, in later times, as the resort of pleasure parties and meetings of \'arious kinds. In point of interest and simple beauty, the country and scenery about Hemlock Falls is hard to excel. The water pours over a precipice about seventy -five feet in height, not, however, perpendicularly, but at an angle of seventh-five or eighty degrees in a succession ' of cascades. There is evidence, however, that at one time the water poured over a precipice about fifty feet perpendicularly, the rock having been worn away by the action of the water. One evidence of this is in the detached fragmentary masses lying scattered at tlie foot of the falls. At present, the waier pours over a precipice of gradual descent about sixt}- feet, then makes a perpendicular leap fifteen feet to the fragmentary rocks beneath. Huge rocks, ragged and uneven, project from either side. The banks of the stream are fringed with hemlock-trees - hence the name. A large oue of these, standing on the verge of a projecting rock, lookf^ as if it would be detached at any moment, and the traveler who has the nerve may hang out over a fearful abyss, by ascending this ti"ee a short distance.

during the wet season, a stream of water issues from the perpendicular side of a rock, falling about thirt^^ feet. In every direction about these falls, the scenery is beautiful, and the traveler is continualh^ stumbling upon wonderful things.

Near these beautiful falls, one of the first pioneer meetings in Richland County was held. Dr. S. Riddle, of Ashland, owner of the falls, in a communication regarding this event, writes :

"The first pioneer meeting in Richland County was held at Hemlock Falls the first Saturday of September, 1856. The principal actors were Rev. James McGraw and Gen. Brinkerhofl", of Mansfield, Ohio ; Dr. S. Riddle, of Ashland ; Dr. J. P. Henderson, Noah Watt (long since dead), William B. Carpenter, Peter Brubaker, Peter Keller, John Uhler and A. Darling, of Worthington Township, and Solomon Gladden and John Coulter, of Monroe. William B. Carpenter was the President on that occasion, and Dr. J. P. Henderson was Marshal of the day. Speeches were made by McGaw and Brinkerhoff, also John Coulter referred to his early experience in pioneer life and the encounters he had with bears and other wild beasts of the forest. A large concourse of people were present ; there was music suitable to the occasion, and a splendid picnic-dinner spread out on the beautiful green above the Falls. The underbrush had been cleared away by some little boys, who took great delight in so doing. Among that number was G. W. Watts (now dead) and Jonathan Herring - who now lives on North Main street, Mansfield, Ohio, and runs the steam-dye works - who were at that time little boys about ten years old. The day was beautiful, and everything went off pleasantly, good order prevailing till the close of the meeting. A short time previous to this meeting, the place had received the name of Hemlock Falls by Gen. Brinkerhoff, who preferred giving it that name instead of an Indian name, as some had suggested. At the second meeting, one year from that time, a large gathering of the people took place, and a general picnic was held, without any special reference to the pioneers. Speech by Hon. John Sherman. Adjourned to meet again in one year from that time. Third meeting, held a Sunday-school picnic. A very well-behaved and orderly crowd of people was there ; had appropriate music. The speakers on that occasion were Rev. Richard Galley (now dead) and Dr. Riddle. Yearly picnics were held there for some years afterward by other parties, but have dwindled down to a mere nothing. The Falls are still owned by Dr. Riddle, who intends to revive again the spirit of the meetings of former days."

Slanting Rock is an enormous fragmentary rock, 80 feet long by 40 wide and 30 in thickness, which some convulsioii, of nature seems to have precipitated some considerable distance from the main clifl". This rock stands upon one of its ends, the other pointing upward at an angle of forty-five degi-ees. The ascent of this rock is somewhat perilous, the upper surface slanting about like the roof of an ordinary dwelling. Contiguous to this is another rock of larger dimensions, the upper surface of which is covered with moss and shrubs, which is also detached from the main ledge.

The Eagle's Nest is a bold projecting rock, about sevent3--five feet in perpendicular altitude, and is situated one-fourth of a mile north of Hemlock Falls, on the same side of Clear Fork. It received its name from the circumstance of an eagle having a nest under the the shelving rock near its summit.

A short distance south of Eagle's Nest is the Pioneer Threshing Floor, which rises perpendicularly three hundred feet above the waters of the creek. Its upper surface is about fort}- feet square, and somewhat bowl-shaped. The name is derived from the circumstance of its being used during pioneer times for a thrashing floor, for which purpose it is admirably adapted. It is surrounded on two sides by trees of considerable growth. Its position is marked by a l)en(l in the creek at nearly right angles, where the creek is seen stretching away toward the west. On either side, so tar as the eye can penetrate, the creek is walled in l\y high precipitous hluffs.

Indian Hill forms the eastern extremity of the ledge of rocks upon which Hemlock Falls, Kaole's Nest, etc., are situated. This eminence attbrds a fine view of the Valley of (Mear Fork and Slaters Run. On the top of this hill are seen several depressions, extending in a line -altout twenty -five feet across the hill, which would seem to indicate an Indian burial ground.

Prospect Hill is situated about one-half mile west of Hemlock Falls, on the south bank of the Clear Fork. It is probably the highest point of land in "JJ^orthington Township. The view from its summit is very beautiful. The Clear Fork valley, and thousands of acres of field and meadow and neat farmhouses ; cattle, sheep, peace, plenty and beauty everywhere. Near its summit are several bowl-shaped cavities, the largest of which is, perhaps, twenty feet in diameter, evidently formed by the sinking down of the earth among the cavities of the rocks beneath. Thej' lie at the edge of a cleared field, and when the ploughed earth, on dilTerent occasions, has rolled into one of these tlepressions, and been washed down by rain, it finds its wa}' out about five hundred feet below, at the base of the hill, through the outlet of a strong spring of water. From this circumstance, it is supposed that there is a subterranean passage from these depressions to the base of the hill.

A perforation of twenty or thirty feet always existed in this hill, Init it was not until within the last twent}' years or more that this was found to be the entrance to a cave, which has received the name of Fountain Cavern. This cavern is quite roomy, being perhaps three hundred feet in circumference, and with several distinct rooms and narrow, winding ways. Near its entrance is a rock called the Giant's Plowshare, from a resemblance to that farming implement. A short distance from this is another large rock resembling a pulpit, and near this a rock called the Indian's Arrowpoint, from its resemblance to that article. It stands on the large end, pointing to the north at an angle of seventy-five degrees. It is six feet broad at the base, and tapei's to a point like an arrowhead.

Watts Hill is on the north side of the creek, immediately opposite Prospect Hill, and derives its name from Mr. Noah Watts, on whose farm it is located. The location of this gentleman's residence at the foot of this hill is one of the most beautiful that can be imagined.

The eastern ascent of the hill is gradual, but the south is more abrupt, being in places almost pei'pendicular. iVU over the hill are scattered curious-shaped rocks, cliffs, arches, towei'S and various strange things nature has provided to astonish the beholder.

Near Watts Hill is a solitary rock called Dropping Rock. It is about one hundred feet in circumference, and ten or fifteen feet in altitude. It stands entirely alone, no other rocks being near, and its surface is covered with moss and shrubs. From its outside walls the water is continualh^ dropping, even in dry weather - hence the name.

It will be seen from the foregoing, that this must have been a delightful hunting-ground for the Indian, and equally delightful to the first white residents ; but how much more beautiful is it to-day, when there are no Indians, rattlesnakes or wolves lurking beneath its I'ocks and in its caverns.

The township is rich in Indian relics, Dr. J. P. Henderson, of Newville, having quite a cabinet of curious things gathered in this vicinity. The plow even yet unearths some curious implements. Not long since, a curiously wrought

The first white settler came into the township, so far as known, in 1809, and was, therefore, among the first in Richland County. The names of its first settlers are mentioned in a statement printed some years ago, from which the following extract is produced : " The first settlement of this township was made in the year 1809, by Samuel Lewis, James Cunningham, Andrew Craig and Henr}' McCart." This is. in part, erroneous, Samuel Lewis being the only one of those mentioned who settled within the present limits of Worthington. The men, hoAvever, settled very near to each other, and very near the line between Monroe, Worthington and Grreen, and it has been with some difficulty that their exact places of residence have been ascertained. They have been claimed as residents of Grreentown, and of G-reen Township, but the fact is they settled very near where Monroe aad Worthington joins Green. James Cunningham moved about consideralily ; in fact, many of these early settlers were somewhat restless, and it is therefore hard to locate them. Andrew Craig was among this number, and can hardly be called a settler at all. Of the former (Cunningham), it has been ascertained that he first settled on the northeast quarter of Section 6, in Monroe Township, so that his first residence was far from Worthington. His next move, so far as known, was to Mansfield, and his third move, made in 1810, was back to Monroe Township, where he settled on Section 30, near Greentown, and in the ]McCart and Lewis neighborhood, so that he was not one of the earliest residents of Worthington at all, though very near its northern line. He afterward moved to the northeast quarter of Section 24, in Monroe. Sometime during the war of 1812, he moved his family to Licking County. Ohio, and returning again after the war settled permanently in Worthington, on Section 17. It will be seen that he was an earl}' settler in Worthington, but not among the earliest.

Samuel Lewis was probabl}- the first permanent white settler within the present limits of Worthington, settling on the northwest quarter of Section 1, in the spring of 1809. He afterward, in 1812, erected a block-house on his fiirm for the protection of the settlers. This was known as Lewis' block-house, and is mentioned in another chapter. Henry Nail, Sr., came in 1810, settling _on Section 1, and William Slater, Peter Zimmerman and James Wilson in 1811 ; Herring, Brodie, Pierce, Davis and some others, perhaps, a little later. James Pierce came before 1815, and settled on Section 2. William and Jonathan Darling came in soon after Lewis, and settled on Section 1. Joseph Friend and Peter Zimmerman came about 1811, the former - settling on Section 3, and the latter on the northeast quarter of Section 16. Zimmerman, erected a powder-mill, the first in the country, on Clear Fork, and established a good trade in the powder business. In 1813, William and Thomas Simmons came, settling on Section 20, and entering the land upon which stands the village of Independence. In 1823, Moses Andrews, wife and family, consistmg of Thomas B., William, John E., Moses, Jr., Catharine and Ann Eliza, came, settling on Section 32. When Mr. Andrews came, the following settlers were already here, in addition to those mentioned, viz., Frederick Eck, Section 32 ; Zeheniah Wade, Section 27 ; John Halfert}-, Section 34 ; Robert Kinton, Section 26 ; John Pipe ; Stephen Bishop, Section 28 ; Frederick Herring (one of the earliest settlers). Section 3 ; Thomas Watt, Section 31 ; David Filloon, Section 23 ; Nicholas Fleeharty, Section 24 ; James Fleeharty, Section 13 ; Amasy Fleeharty (father of James and Nicholas, and a soldier of the Revolution), Section 24 ; Daniel Carpenter (father of George and W. B. Carpenter, of Mansfield), Section 2 ; Andrew Ramsey, Section 17, (1815) ; Robert

Phipps, Section 17 ; Jacob Myers, Section 18 ; William'Robison, Section 18; Samuel Boyle, Section 32. Mr. Boyle's cabin is yet standing, and is, probabl}', the oldest house in the township. John Duncan and William Hanlan settled on Section 30, and Robert McConkey on Section 13. Probably other settlers arrived before 1823, whose names cannot at present be recalled.

These settlers were mostl}^ from the Ligonier Valley, in Western Pennsylvania. Most of them came into the township along the old Wyandot trail, following up the Mohican, the Black Fork and Clear Fork, settling first where the latter leaves the township, in the northeast corner. Of those who came later, a portion followed the military road, cut by a section of Gen. Harrison's army in 1812, which is yet a highway, and runs diagonally across the township from northeast to southwest, on the high gi'ound south of the Clear Fork. This was, probably, the first road in the township. It is here in order, to relate a few incidents connected with the struggles of these earl}" settlers, in their first eflTorts at transforming the rugged wilderness into the present cultivated gardens. Space can only be given for a few that will illustrate life in that time.