West Township (part 3 of 3)

Among the old families of Columbiana County was that of Nathan Heacock, from Bucks Co., Pa., who settled near Salem in 1816. In 1825 he came to Smith, bringing a family of ten children, viz. : Amos, who died in 1841 ; Edwin, who lives in Smith ; Jane, who married Ezra Barton, and died in 1817 ; Asenath, who married Nathan Thomas, now living in Iowa; Milton, now residing in Oregon ; Barton, of Smith township ; Uriah Antrim, who died in 1854; Elias H., who was killed by accident in 1850 ; Enos, still living in Smith ; Josiah Wilson, who died in 1852; Tacy W., born in Smith township, who married Milton Coffee, and now lives in Williams Co., Ohio. The children of Edwin and Hannah (Barber) Heacock are Lewis, Dennis, Isaac, Nathan, Chalkley, Curtiss, Edgar, and Emerson, who was killed by accident. Enos married Ann Taylor, and had four children, - Jacob Taylor, who died in 1864, Addie, and Nathan Earnest. Barton's children are Melissa, Clarkson, Oliver, Rebecca, Jane, who died in 1876, Sarah A., who died in 1879, Isaac B., Antrim, Alice, who died, aged six years, Elvira, Leota, who died in infancy, and Edith.

Peter Wise, from Pennsylvania, came to Smith in 1832, with a large family, only two of whom are now living in the township, viz. : Pusey, and Elizabeth, who married George Martin. The children of Pusey are Franklin, Hannah, Charles, and Cora.

In 1810, James Cattell, of New Jersey, settled in Goshen township. In 1833 he removed to Smith, where he died in 1860. His son, Ezra, married Henrietta Stanley, daughter of Thomas Stanley, and lives on section 26.

Jacob Paxson, of Chester Co., Pa., settled in Butler in 1815. His daughter Annie married Hoopes Bailey, and removed to Smith in 1833. Their family consisted of five sons, - Howard H., Edward P., William Penn, Oakley H., and Francis C.

Job Lamborn, of Delaware, settled in Smith in 1834. He had a family of six children, - Thomas E. ; Philena, who married Milton Taylor; William; Elizabeth, who married Parker Morris; Susan; and Edward II.

James M. Dobson, an old settler of Columbiana County, came to Smith in 1833 with a wife and one child, John. The other children, born in the township, are Elizabeth, who married Elisha Smathcr ; Thomas ; Martha, who married Isaac Grant; Jane, who married William J. Adams; Henry ; Margaret, who married Dennis Charlton ; Cynthia, who married Parker Calvin; and James K. The children of John and Mary (Adams) Dobson are Hugh, who died in 1876, and David.

Among the pioneer families of Columbiana County was that of Christian Sheets, a native of Maryland. Ho settled in Unity township as early as 1804. In 1805 he removed to Butler, where he lived until the time of his death, in 1828. In 1817, Jacob Sheets, his son, married Elizabeth Hartzell, by whom he had eight children. This family came to Smith in 1859, where Jacob still lives, aged eighty-four years.

George Atkinson was a resident of Goshen township in 1816. William Atkinson, one of his sons, became a resident of Smith in about 1854. He died in or near the year 1867, leaving a family, who reside on the old farm, on section 12.

William Johnston, of Pennsylvania, settled in Smith in about the year 1834 ; died in 1877. His children were Andrew, Eliza, Sophia Ann, Mary, Sally, Morris, William, and Ella.

Hugh Wright, son of Joseph Wright, who settled near Salem in 1802, came to Smith in 1840. He married Rachel T., daughter of Joseph Broomall. They were the parents of five children, Joseph B., Sarah A., Jacob, Rachel E., and James T.

John Thompson, a native of Sweden, and an early settler of Washington township, where he lived many years, came to Smith in 1860. He married Mercy Wilkinson, by whom he had nine children, Martha, Marcy, Samuel, Amos W., Rebecca, Thomas B., Olivia, Louisa, and John J.

In the foregoing early settlement history it has been the endeavor to give a correct record of the pioneer families of Smith township as far as could be obtained. There were families among the early settlers whose history is not recorded. Of these some are dead, others have left the township, and no authentic record of the date of their settlement, death, or departure can he obtained. On information from the oldest living residents, the names of many have been obtained as follows : Mathias Hollowpeter, Jonathan Hoope, John Cowgill, the Cobbs, Hugh Packer, John Trago, Abram Haines, Leonard Reed, Abram and Samuel Miller, Adam McGowan, William Matthews, John Hillerman, Amos Allerton, John Schaffer. These were probably settled in the township prior to 1830 ; yet it is possible that some were later, as in 1828 there were but twenty-three voters iu the township.

Smith township was organized at a meeting of the county commissioners in the month of March, 1821, upon the petition of Judge William Smith, one of its pioneers, in honor of whom it was named. The books of the township, containing records of the first meetings and of the election of the first officers, are lost or destroyed. Notice of the organization was found in the old commissioners' journal. James C. Stanley was probably clerk of the first townmeeting. The existing records begin with the year 1863, since which date the following persons have been elected to the offices of clerk, treasurer, and assessor :

North Benton

The village of North Benton was surveyed and laid out on the 27th and 28th days of March, 1834, under the proprietorship of William Smith, Dr. John Dellenbaugli, and James Smith. The map or plat was recorded March 31, 1834. Although not until then formally laid out, yet as early as the year 1830 a number of buildings had been erected, and the village was a general gathering-place for the people in that vicinity. North Benton was named in honor of Thomas Benton, a " hard-money" Democrat of the time, who had many friends and admirers in that community. " North" was prefixed in order to distinguish it from another place of that name. The first hotel was built in 1832 by one Fitch, and called the " Bentou Exchange." It is now in possession of Zachariah Bertolette.

The village has a population of about 250, comprising about seventy families, and has two churches, a school, several stores, and business interests of various kinds.

In the year 1831 the town or village of Westville was named and partially laid out, under the proprietorship of Aaron Coppack, and then was composed of a portion of sections 35 and 36. The map was recorded September 27th of the same year. In 1835 an addition was made, and portions of sections 1 and 2 of Knox township included within the village limits. This was done under the direction of Aaron Coppack, Samuel Coppack, Joseph Cobbs, and Edward Randolph, proprietors. The plat was recorded Oct. 15, 1835. The village continued to grow until about 1850, and became a convenient trading centre, having a saw-mill on section 35 and a general country store. Since that time there has been no material increase in population.

This hamlet, although never regularly laid out or incorporated as a village, is indebted for its existence to the building of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railroad, in the years 1848-49. It was originally called "Smithfield Station," and a post-office established there under that name. In about 1863 the name was changed to Beloit, there being then another Springfield village in the State. Within the limits of what may properly be called Beloit are a church, saw mill, two stores, a wagon-manufactory, and a blacksmithshop. The village has a population of about 150.

East Alliance

East Alliance, as it is called, is but one of the suburbs of Alliance, Stark Co., resulting from the growth of the latter place. In 1879, East Alliance was made the second election district of Smith township.

exercises were conducted by ministers of different denominations at a much earlier period, but at irregular intervals and in various places, in Smith and adjoining townships, the people not being able to maintain separate organizations. General services without regard to religious preference were occasionally held, but until the erection of the Friends' meeting-house no regular church society had been organized in the township.

Thomas Dixon and Rebecca his wife, in consideration of the sum of $8, conveyed to Charles Armitage, Nathan Heacock, and Edward Courtney, " on behalf of the Society of Friends of West Preparative Meeting, a branch of Salem Monthly Meeting,"' a parcel of land in the south part of the township, for the purpose of building and occupying a meeting-house and school-house and for a burying-ground. The deed was dated Aug. 23, 1830.

Nearly a year after, the building was erected, the society occupying under an agreement prior to the deed. The Friends never erected a separate school-building, as mentioned in the deed, but occupied the meeting-house for school purposes. The school was taught by Hannah Courtney.

The cemetery in connection with the meeting-house was laid out about 1830, and, although called the " Friends' Rurying-Ground," never was used by them exclusively. The first person interred there was Hannah Trago, who died in 1831.

Methodist Episcopal Church, North Benton

The church edifice of this society was built in the year 1840. The first trustees were George Smith, John Detchon, James Carter, and Simeon Card. George Smith was the class-leader; Rev. Martin Weakley, a "circuit-rider," was the first minister. He was succeeded by Rev. Gideon Kennier. Revs. John Murray, Hosea McCall, and James Rogers each preached two years on this circuit in the order given.

Presbyterian Congregation

This church was organized in Deerfield township, Portage Co., as early as 1818, under the name of the " Presbyterian Congregation of Deerfield." The first minister was the Rev. Joshua Beer, of the Hartford, Conn., Presbytery. The first pastor was Rev. William O. Stratton, who was installed in 1843. In 1850, a new church was built in Smith, near North Benton, to which the society moved, holding the first meeting in 1851. Mr. Stratton continued pastor until 1865. In 1866 Rev. William Dixon was installed, and remained nearly ten years, when lie was succeeded by llcv. Mr. Shirock. The present pastor is Rev. Dallas B. Mays. In connection with the church is a burying-ground of about three acres, laid out in 1852.

Presbyterian Society

This society is practically a branch of the " Presbyterian Congregation," by whom it is controlled. Their house of worship was erected in 1859, on section 26, as a free church, to be used by all denominations, the land for the purpose having been donated by Miles Marzilla. At completion the property was incumbered with a debt, which the subscriptions were not sufficient to liquidate, and was sold in 1870 to the Presbyterian Society. The society was organized by Revs. William Dixon, J. B. Miller, and Elder Solomon Hartzell. Rev. William Miller was pastor until succeeded by Rev. D. B. May, the present minister.

On account of the loss of the records of Smith township, no accurate history of its early school districts can be given. The first school of the township was taught in an old log house, on the site of North Benton. This house was built in 1806, by James Smith, son of the pioneer Win. Smith. The name of the first teacher is not known, but Margaret Davis taught the school at a very early day. The second school-house was erected in the Stanley neighborhood, in about 1812. The township was originally divided into four districts; but, as it increased in population, these districts were frequently subdivided to meet the wants of the people. The districts are- now ten in number, but the centre district has not been used for school purposes since 1870. The schools of Smith are among the best in the county, and are under the charge of the district supervisors. Section 16, reserved to the township for educational purposes, has been sold, and the proceeds used in permanent improvements on school property. The annual expense for maintenance is nearly $2500 per annum.

The chief occupation of the people of Smith township is farming and stock-raising. The excellent grazing and pasture lands have, however, led to the establishment of several cheese-manufactories. These are four in number, the principal of which is on " Beech Ridge," so called, in the easterly part of the township, and is owned by John Stanley. A saw- and flour-mill at Westville, owned and operated by Somers & Co. ; and three saw-mills, one at Beloit, owned by Samuel P. Coppack ; one on section 13, owned by Joshua Reeves ; and one on section 20, owned by George W. Martin, comprise the special manufacturing interests of the township.

James M. Dobson

James M. Dobson was born in Alleghany Co., Pa., on the waters of Chartier's Creek, about ten miles from Pittsburgh, March 27, 1807. Mrs. Dobson was born in the same State, Nov. 19, 1807. Mr. Dobson emigrated from thereto Ohio in the early part of his life, and settled in Columbiana County, and commenced life for himself by purchasing a farm. This farm had but little improvement ou it, but Mr. Dobson went to work, as all early settlers did who found a home here, to improve his place, clearing, burning brush, log-rolling, and building. He married Margaret, daughter of John and Martha Bevingston. Eleven children were born of this union, six boys and five girls, viz. : John, Elizabeth, Thomas, Martha, June, Henry B., Margaret, Cynthia, .lames K., Robert (deceased j, aud Joseph

(deceased). They are living in Ohio, with the exception of Martha, who resides in Michigan. James M. Dobson came from Columbiana County to Smith township, Mahoning Co., about 1S33, where he bought a farm of seventy acres. By hard labor and strict economy he added from time to time to this farm, until he owned one hundred and forty acres. He managed his farm during his entire life-time. At his death he left this land to be divided among his children, giving to John two shares, and leasing him the farm for five years at one hundred dollars per year. John lived at home with his father twenty-five years after his majority, working and receiving no equivalent above his support. Mr. and Mrs. Dobson were Presbyterians, and of Scotch and Irish descent. Mr. Dobson's education was limited ; he attended school just long enough to be able to read and write. He was a truly kind and indulgent man in his family, and in his intercourse with all true and friendly. As he had lived peaceably and quietly, so

Mrs. James M. Dobson

Mrs. James Dobson died Dec. 22, 1875. The portraits of Mr. and Mrs. James Dobson are inserted in this work by their son, John, as a tribute of respect to their memory.

William Johnston

William Johnston was a native of Beaver Co., Pa., and was born on the 20th of May, 1809. In the year 1843 he left his native county and came with his family to Smith township, Columbiana Co., now Mahoning Co. He there settled on a farm which he had bought three years before moving to this State.

In the month of March, 1834, he was united in marriage with Phoebe, daughter of John and Sophia Morris. Mr. Johnston's family consisted of eight children, viz. : A. C., Sophia A., Mary W., J. M., E. J., Sarah, William F., and P. S. Three of the children are deceased. Sophia A. died Oct. 19, 1840 ; Mary W. died Feb. 13, 1842 ; J. W. was killed at Stone River Dec. 31, 1862.

Mr. Johnston bought his farm with but little improvement on it, there being at the time only a hewed-log house. As soon as he could get to work he commenced the improvement of his place, and before the end of the first year he had erected a large frame house, a view of which can be seen on another page of this work. Mr. Johnston filled offices of trust both in the township and county in which he lived, having been commissioner of the county for six years. He ever discharged the duties of these trusts to the entire satisfaction of the people. He always took a lively interest in all public affairs. Mr. Johnston died Feb. 4, 1877.

Mrs. Johnston is still living with her youngest son, Wm. F. Johnston, on the farm first settled by the father. This sketch, also the portraits of his father and mother, are inserted by Wm. F. Johnston.

Moses Oyster

Moses Oyster was born in Columbiana County, Feb. 4, 1822. He and his wife are both of German descent. His father, Samuel Oyster, was born in the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Samuel Oyster was a very energetic, hard-working man. During his life he purchased one thousand and fifty acres of land which he divided among his children, giving to each eighty acres. His death occurred in 1847 ; his wife died in 1836. Moses Oyster received an ordinary English education in the common schools of this State, engaging much of the time in manual labor. His first purchase was sixty acres of land in Smith township, Columbiana (now Mahoning) County. He owned this faim about ten years. Selling it to his brother Eli, he again bought sixty-six acres in the same township ; on this farm he now lives ; he has since added to this until he now has a fine farm of one hundred and thirty-five acres.

worked at such work as he could at that early day find to do, farming and ditching for his neighbors when they needed help, working for the sum of fifty cents a day. In the year 1845, June the 19th, he married Elizabeth, daughter of - George and Mary Kimes ; they have had a family of twelve children. On the 20th day of October,

1852, death entered the family circle and removed one of the children. Few families can surround the hearthstone and not find some " vacant chair." In religion, Mr. Oyster is a liberal, believing the highest type of Christianity and the truest religion consists in doing right. His wife is a

Mrs. Moses Oyster

It is the earnest wish of the many friends of Mr. Oyster that he may live long to enjoy the many comforts and blessings of life, well earned by upright industry and honest dealings.

Mrs. J. J. Thompson

was born in Washington township, Columbiana Co., Sept. 23, 1843. John Thompson was brought up on his father's farm, where he remained until he was twenty-seven years old. During this time ho availed himself of such advantages of education as his neighboring school then provided ; being desirous of having a good education, ho spent much time outside of school with his books, and by this application secured a fair English education.

and. preferring this to any other business, he now owns and lives on the farm formerly owned by his father. A representation of this home, as also portraits of his father, mother, wife, and himself, may be seen in this work.

May 5, 1870, Mr. J. J. Thompson married Mary J., daughter of John and Phoebe Armstrong. They have two children, - John B. and Hallie O. Mr. Thompson and his amiable wife are now in possession of a pleasant home and many friends, which they fully appreciate and enjoy. They are in the full vigor of life, and we hope they may have many years of usefulness before them.

Nathan Heacock

was born in Rockhill township, Bucks Co , Pa., April 16, 1783. He was the son of Jeremiah and Sarah Heacock. Jonathan, the grandfather of Jeremiah, emigrated from Staffordshire, England, to America about the year 1711, and settled in Chester, Delaware Co., Pa. He and his wife, Ann, brought with them from England a certificate of their rights of membership in the Society of Friends, which has been continued in a direct line to the present generation. William, the son of Jonathan, was born in Marple, Chester Co., Pa., Jan. 13, 1716. He subsequently settled in Rockhill township, Bucks Co., Pa., where he married Ann Roberts, a lady of Welsh descent. He and his son, Jeremiah, were both millwrights, and were owners of a saw- and gristmill in Bucks County. Sarah Heacock, the mother of Nathan, was the daughter of James and Ann Morgan, also of Welsh descent. Her father, while on the road with his team, was forced into the service of Gen. Braddock, and was at Fort Duquesne (now Pittsburgh) at the time of the memorable defeat of the British in 1755.

About the year 1790, Nathan's father, Jeremiah Heacock, sold his property in Bucks Co., Pa., and removed to Northampton Co., Pa., where he remained some seven years. In that rough backwoods region was the boyhood of Nathan spent. His father, Jeremiah, died Jan. 1, 1797, in the fifty-eighth year of his age. This event produced an entire change in the course of his son, whose career we are briefly depicting. With a brother younger than himself he went on foot forty miles from their late residence to the neighborhood of his grandfather's place, in Richland township, Bucks Co., Pa. Remaining in the family of Joseph Custard for three years, he was apprenticed to John Trumbower to learn the wagon-maker's trade.

Sept. 9, 1806, he married Dinah Dennis, daughter of Amos and Jane Dennis, and settled with her mother, who was a widow, in Richland township, Pa.

In 1813, he removed to Columbia Co., Pa.; but three years later he came to Ohio, and settled in Goshen township, Columbiana (now Mahoning) Co., about two miles northwest of Salem. Here for several years he battled with the forest, and by perseverance and frugality earned a living, but his limited means becoming involved, in 1821 he sold his farm and sought another location " farther in the woods." At the Steubenville land-office he "entered" the southwest quarter of section 28, in Smith township, Columbiana (now Mahoning) Co. The parchment deed, which gave him title to this tract, was signed by President James Monroe, and is now in the possession of his son, who retains the old home. This land was in what was then known as the " beech woods," and was considered by the early residents as scarcely worth possessing. But good cultivation and careful management have made it one of the finest farms in the county. The following incident, which occurred at the time of their removal to their new and forest home, will illustrate some of the hardships of the pioneers : Nathan and his two eldest sons went the first of the week to their place to chop, taking a week's provisions with them ; the early summer weather, warm and showery, caused their bread to mould, and to make their allowance hold out the allotted time they concluded to eat the worst portions first. As it moulded as fast as they consumed it, their fare consisted of mouldy bread through the entire week. When ready to return home, they went to the house of their only neighbor, Daniel Barton, a mile distant, to get a meal to sustain their strength for an eight-mile walk. And the good wife gave them plentifully of corn-cake. Mr. Heacock often remarked that he thought this was one of the best meals he ever ate.

Mr. Heacock was one of the few who, in 1829, erected a building and opened a Friends' meeting (Hicksite) two miles south of the centre of Smith township.

His family consisted of eleven children, - eight sons and three daughters, - namely : Jane D., born in Bucks Co., Pa., Aug. 12, 1812; married Ezra Bartou, 1832; died January, 1837. Edwin, born in Bucks County, April 19, 1811 ; married Hannah Barber, 1836 ; is a farmer, located near fiis father's place. Milton, born at Fishing Creek, Pa., Dec. 23, 1815 ; is a carpenter by trade, and built the house shown in the illustration of Mr. Heacock's farm ; was twice married, - to Rebecca Thomas, 1838 (deceased), and Hannibah Passmore, 1846 ; he now resides in Oregon. Barton, born in Goshen township, Columbiana Co., Ohio, Jan. 13, 1818 ; married Rachel Barber, 1839 ; a farmer. Asenath, born at Fishing Creek, Pa., June 26, 1814; married Nathaniel Thomas, 1841 ; at present living in Iowa. Amos D., born in Bucks Co., Pa., Oct. 27, 1808 ; died at his father's house, in ColumbianaCo., Ohio, Nov. 18, 1841. Uriah A., born in Goshen township, Columbiana Co., Ohio, June 14, 1819; married Sarah Barber, 1843; died May, 1854. Elias H., born in Goshen township, Jan. 6, 1821 ; married Eliza T. Thomas in 1843, and settled on his father's place; was killed, by being thrown from a wagon, January, 1850. Josiah W., born in Goshen township, July 8, 1824; died January, 1852. Tacy, their third daughter and youngest child, was born in Smith township, Mahoning Co., Ohio, April 22, 1827 ; married Milton Coffee, 1852, and now resides in Williams Co., Ohio.

Enos Heacock, the present proprietor of the old homestead, and son of Nathan and Dinah Heacock, was born in Goshen township, Mahoning Co., Ohio, Sept. 5, 1822. When he was three years old his parents removed to the neighboring township of Smith. His opportunities for obtaining book-knowledge were limited ; but, growing up in the midst of the forest, he became a great lover of nature. In 1830 the first school was established in his neighborhood, and this he attended. At the age of ten he went to live with a married sister, in Lexington township, Stark Co., Ohio, and while residing there witnessed the remarkable meteoric shower of the fall of 1 833. In 1835 he returned to his father's house, and thenceforward was a diligent laborer on the farm, in the days when scythe and flail held sway, and before reapers and mowers had won the field. In 1851 he obtained, partly by purchase and partly by bequeathment, a portion of his father's land, and thus became possessed of the old homestead. In that year the Ohio and Pennsylvania (since merged into the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago) Railroad was opened through his farm. He was married Sept. 30, 1852, to Ann Taylor, daughter of Jacob and Anna Taylor, of Chester Co., Pa. To them were born three children, - Jacob T., Nov. 11, 1854; Addie, June 27, 1860; and Nathan E., Aug. 21, 1866 ; the former deceased 1864. Addie was married May 1, 1879, to William Tombaugh.

Dinah Heacock, mother of Enos, died from a stroke of palsy, Jan. 29, 1854. His father, Nathan, departed this life in 1866, the 26th day of the sixth month, in the eighty-fourth year of his age.

This township formed the northeastern part of the original Columbiana County. It is bounded on the north by the south line of the Western reserve; on the east by the State of Pennsylvania ; on the south by the township of Unity, now the northeast part of the county; and on the west by the township of Beaver. It is designated in the government survey as town 9, in range 1. It was one of the oldest townships in the county, having been organized for civil purposes in 1803. In 1846 Springfield was attached to Mahoning County, and has since been a political division of that body, its later history, consequently, not being intimately connected with Columbiana County.

The general surface of the township is broken by hills of moderate height, between which are intervales and lowlands, originally somewhat swampy. The whole township was covered with a fine growth of the common woods, and a liberal supply of timber yet remains. Building-stone may be obtained in various localities, and coal is unusually abundant.

The principal streams are Honey Creek and several small brooks, flowing southeast from the central and the western parts of the township; and the Little Yellow Creek in the northwest, having a northerly course. Numerous springs abound, and the natural drainage is generally sufficient to afford an arable surface. The soil varies from a sandy loam to a heavy clay, along the streams being more or less of an alluvium. The whole is fertile and well adapted to the products of mixed husbandry. The people are chiefly engaged in agriculture.

Pioneer Settlers

The early history of Springfield is somewhat obscure. None of the original settlers remain, and what little recorded history they had has been destroyed. The recollections of the descendants of those who came to the township as pioneers are not clear, and their statements concerning that period are contradictory. It appears, however, that the township was permanently settled about 1801, and that Deter Musser was the first to establish himself in what is now Springfield. He came from York Co., Pa., and having considerable means purchased the four sections in the southeast corner of the township, living a little north of the present village of Petersburgh. Here he built small grist- and saw-mills, and made other desirable improvements. He died in 1808, leaving a family of four sons and two daughters. The oldest son, John, succeeded to the mill property, but after a few years removed to Missouri. Peter was the proprietor of the village site, and the founder of Petersburgh. He removed to the northern part of the State. The third son, Jacob, lived in the village, selling there the first goods. He enlisted in the army in 1812, and afterwards in the regular army of the United States, serving as drum-major ; he finally settled in Missouri. His son Jacob now lives in Petersburgh, and is one of its oldest citizens.

One of Musser's daughters was married to Israel Warner, who came with his father-in-law in 1801, and settled on the farm now occupied by his son Ellis. Other sons of Warner were John, George, Peter, David, Israel, William, and Jacob. Some of these yet live in Springfield and the adjoining towns. Israel Warner was a captain in 1812. The other daughter of Musser married Jacob Rudisill, and lived north of the Warner homestead.

In later years, among the prominent settlers on the Musser purchase were John Maurer, on the farm now occupied by his son, William, the only member of the family living here. He had, also, sons named Jacob, John, and Moses.

James Wallace was one of the first and foremost settlers, and is yet well remembered as a merchant. Having been elected judge of Mahoning County, he removed to Canfield. To that place, also, removed Ilosea Hoover, one of Petersburgh-s early settlers, who was elected county treasurer.

On the farm now occupied by C. B. Wilson, John Pontius was the original settler, and was followed by his son, John. East of the village, on the farm yet occupied by his family, Henry Miller settled at an early day ; and north o

In the western part of the township, Daniel Miller, from Adams Co., Pa., was the earliest settler, coming in 1802, and settling on section 18. His oldest son, Henry, aged ninety-one years, is yet living on section 30. His brothers, Jacob and John, are among the oldest citizens in the northern part of the township.

South from Miller, the same year, settled C. Seidnerand his son-in-law, C. Mentzer, coming from Hagerstown ; and a few years later there were added to the settlers here Jacob Shaefer, sometimes called Doctor, and George Macklin. Descendants of the latter yet live in that locality. Other early settlers here were Jacob Christ, John May, Hugh Chain, John Robinson, and Peter Shreiver. The latter joined the community at Economy, Pa.

Section 6 was settled the latter part of 1801, by Adam Hahn, who soon after put up a saw mill there. He had sons named Adam, Andrew, and Peter.

On section 4 George Stump, with his sons, George, Henry, Abraham, and John, settled before 1803; and on the intervening section, No. 5, John Summers, of York Co., Pa., made a settlement in 1802. His sons attaining mature age were Samuel, Jacob, Daniel, David, Joseph, John, and Solomon. Some of his grandchildren yet live on this section. In April, 1806, George Elser, one of Summers' sons-in-law, came from Lancaster, Pa., with a family of three sons, John, George, and Jacob, and settled on the northeast quarter of this section, where he died in 1847. The son George yet resides in Springfield. Jacob removed to Columbiana, and the oldest, John, settled on the northwest quarter of section 25, in Beaver township, in 1827, where he yet lives, a hale man, at the age of eighty-one years.

In the northeastern part of the township the early settlers were John Shoemaker, about 1804; Henry Myers, on section 12, in 1803 ; Peter and Henry Raub and Peter Benedict on section 11 about the same time; and here were, also, before 1806, men named Empie, Taylor, Barnard, Parsons, and Messerly.

In the neighborhood of New Middleton were the Burkey, Kuhn, Schillinger, Gray, Cublin, and Schiller families, some time before 1810 ; and after that period Joshua Hahn, Simon Martin, the Welker, Beard, and Ilgenfritz families took place among the prominent settlers. Immigration was so great from 1805 to 1815, that it is impossible to gather up the names of all who became pioneers in Springfield. Many came with small means, and having accumulated a little more property, after a few years followed the Star of Empire in its westward course, and, in many instances, all remembrance of them, as former citizens of the township, has passed away.

The records of the township from its organization - in 1803 - until 1868, a period of sixty-five years, have been destroyed or mislaid, making the compilation of an accurate civil list an impossibility, and necessitating the omission here of much valuable matter which can be obtained from no other source.

The Coal Interests

of the township deserve a brief mention. Although that valuable mineral generally abounds, but little effort has been made to develop its riches outside of the territory, along the Little Yellow Creek, in the northwest part of the township. East of that stream mining is carried on to some extent on the Ruhlman, Kurtz, and Heine farms, but the principal product is on the west side, and chiefly on section 7. Here are in successful operation three mines, whose united product is about 2500 tons per year.

The Summers family was one of the first to engage in mining, - some time about 1845. The oldest mine is at present worked by J. W. Heindle. His coal is elevated by means of a shaft and horse-power. Farther down the gulley Solomon Paulin carries on horizontal mining, and directly south from him is Jeremiah Brown's mine. This was first opened in 1847 by Daniel Summers, and more thoroughly operated by Wm. Cook and Solomon Paulin at a later day. Since 1873 the present owner has carried on the business of mining, employing about five hands. The vein is about four feet thick, one-third of the quantity being excellent caunel coal. He has a horizontal main entry 400 yards long, and four side entries from 50 to 100 yards in extent.

Fire Insurance Company

was organized in the spring of 1857, with about 200 members and the following officers : President, John Warner ; Secretary, J. Geo. Bacher ; Treasurer, George Smith ; Directors, Jacob Cublin, Jr., Adam Harmon, John Warner. The company has carried on its business successfully for twenty-two years, and at present has in force 930 policies, representing about $1,500,000 of insurance on farm property and detached buildings. All risks are limited not to exceed $2000, and policies are operative five years. Losses are paid by pro rata assessments, and the contingent expenses of the company are defrayed by a small membership fee of ten cents per hundred on the amount insured. Thus far all claims against the company have been promptly and satisfactorily met ; the assessments for the past twenty-two years having been only about $3 for every $100 of property insured.

The present officers are : President and Director, Benjamin Lentz ; Treasurer and Director, Solomon Paulin ; Director, Levi Hisey ; Secretary, Frederick W. Kohler.

The oldest and most impoi'tant village in the township is located chiefly on section 36. It was founded before 1810 by Peter Musser, and from him received its name.

As the growth of the place demanded, village lots were platted as additions to the original survey by Bean and others. At present it has a number of stores, hotels, a good school-house, three churches, and about 500 inhabitants.

It is said that Jacob Musser sold the first goods in the place, in the building which is now the J. P. Swisher residence, which is the oldest frame house in Petersburgh. James Wallace opened a store where is now the post-office building, and was the first to engage regularly in trade, some time about 1815. He converted that house into a hotel, and opened a store on the north side of the street, where he was in trade about thirty years. W. C. Dunlap was a contemporary merchant at the stand now occupied by Lipp & Miller, but first had a store where is now S. Ernst's residence. Among the principal merchants that followed them were Robert Forbus, Spaeth & Swisher, J. G. Lesslie, O. H. P. Swisher, David and John Shearer, James Mathews, Ernst & Hahn, Hoover & Seidner, etc.

The post-office here was first established with the name of Musser's Mill, and had, in 1811, John Musser for postmaster. It subsequently received the present name (that of the village), and has had the following officials : Peter Musser, Frederick Spaeth, Col. James Miller, Martha Miller, O. H. P. Swisher, Robt. Wallace, C. C. Swisber, Lewis Sholl, Gideon Schiller, George Herr, T. S. Guy, and, in 1879, Henry Myers. The office is on the route from Enon, Pa., to Youngstown, and has two mails per day.

As near as can be determined Dr. Luther Spellman was the first permanent physician located in the village. Dr. B. F. Adams died in the place. Others in practice were Doctors Jehu Stough, John D. Coffin, John Wise, John McCook, and Ferdinand Casper. At present there are Philip H. Swisher, - since 1828, - George W. Pettit, and P. W. Welker as practitioners.

Richard Smith was here as an attorney a short time. Jacob Musser was the justice from 1845 till 1875; and Wm. F. Stoll is the present magistrate.

The first public-house was kept by Peter Musser, on his farm, now owned by A. Kneasel ; the next was kept in the J. P. Swisher residence, by Kinneman, Douglas, Pontius, and others. James Wallace was for many years a wellknown landlord. Messrs. Boyd, Keith, and Fitch there followed in (he business. Where is now the " Lochiel House," kept by George S. Yeow, Henry Kale opened a public-house, and was succeeded by Messrs. Kelley, Mathews, Conrad, and by George Kneasel, who changed the house to its present comfortable condition.

As early as 1803, Peter Musser got in operation saw- and grist-mills, a little north of the village, on the site of the present old mill. John Musser, John Pontius, and D. Whitmeyer were among the subsequent owners. The latter removed to Pittsburgh, where he became a famous miller. Maury & Edler were the last to operate the mill. The building was used for a cheese-factory in 1878, but is now idle, the power of Honey Creek here being insufficient to operate machinery advantageously.

On the stream- below, near the State line, about 1825, John Miller put up a grist-mill, which was operated by him and his family until a few years ago, employing in the last stages of its existence both water- and steampower. Between these sites John Musser put up a sawmill, which was operated until about 1860.

In 1874 a steam flouring-mill, having three runs of stones, was erected near the centre of the village by Maurer & Edler Bros., and is now operated by Welker & Shaefer, and has a large patronage.

About 1870 a steam saw-mill was gotten in operation, west of the village, by Ernst & Rauch, and is yet operated by Rauch & Unger ; and in the village a saw-mill, planer, and machines for making bent-work, were gotten in operation in 1875 by Failer Bros. & Miller.

The foundry here was established before 1870 by R. C. Bean, and is now carried on by Reinhard, Robbinreath & Sons in the manufacture of plows, light castings, and in repair work.

The village has two tanneries, both employing steampower, which thoroughly dress and finish all kinds of leather, except sole. The oldest in the early history of the place was first carried on by John Embrie. Subsequent proprietors were Peter Fusselman, James Wallace, Seeger, Houser, Auer, and Beidler & Sons. Rudolph Brenchle is the owner of the other tannery. It has also been carried on by Robert Forbus and Wm. Cunningham.

Carriage-shops are carried on by W. F. Stoll and the Witter Brothers. The place has also the usual mechanicshops, and its united interests give it a busy appearance.

New Springfield

is a village of about 350 inhabitants, and has a pleasant location in the southern part of section 29. It was founded some time before 1825 by Abraham Christ, who platted twenty-eight lots around the present square or " diamond." To this additions have been made by Jacob Fulgerson, Christian Harker, John Wagner, and David Spitler, and the village now spreads over a considerable area. There are two churches, a good school-house, and the interests detailed below.

Joseph Davis opened the first store in a building near Shale's distillery. On the square, Thomas Knight erected a building for a store about 1828, which he conducted about twenty years. Nicholas Eckes, Jacob Spaeth, William May, Wm. Phillips, Schillinger & Ruckenbrod, Eckert & Peters, Tobias Elser, George Smith, and George Slutter are among those who have been here actively engaged in trade. The present merchant is John Tritt, who also holds the office of postmaster. The office has also been held by Nicholas Eckes, George Smith, S. F. Hadley, John Peters, Tobias Elser, and George Slutter. A daily mail from Columbiana is provided.

The first practicing physician was Dr. Louis Zeigler ; the present are Drs. William Stafford and R. E. Warner. Doctors A. King, Dustin, Hamilton, and Heinman have practiced in the place.

Among the ministers originating from this locality have been the Revs. Isaiah, Eli, and Aaron Miller, sons of George Miller, all of whom belong to the Lutheran Church.

On the brook, southeast of the village, have been sawmills operated by Christian Seidner and John May ; below, on the same stream, Solomon Crouse had an early gristmill. Here are now saw- and grist-mills operated by steamand water-power by Henry Welk.

Joseph Davis was a distiller at the village many years ago ; Andrew Shale has at present a grain distillery, and John Seeger a fruit distillery. Tanneries were formerly cariied on by Conrad & Showacre.

In 1872, William May and Adam Seidner put up a foundry in the lower part of the village, which was removed to its present location in 1878. It is here carried on by Ruel N. Wright, in buildings well adapted for this purpose. Steam-power is employed, and stoves, plows, and agricultural implements are produced.

The New Springfield Bent-Works, George Felger & Sons, proprietors, are the outgrowth of a small business established by these parties near the square. In August, 1877, their shop was consumed by fire, causing a conflagration which destroyed also the houses of J. S. Shearer and S. F. Hadley. A large and well-arranged building was then erected in the outskirts of the village, in which the works have since been successfully carried on. Steam-power is used, and five men are employed.

In the village are a job-work shop by Adam Seidner ; carriage-shops by Conrad and Franklin Peters, Solomon Pfau, and Benjamin Felger; a tin-smith shop by Ira Smith ; a harness-shop by Henry Sitler ; and half a dozen other shops where ordinary mechanical trades are carried on.

New Middleton

It was laid out before 1825, in the neighborhood of the present mill, by Samuel Moore, and has been enlarged by additions made by William Brotherton and John Miller.

A small store was opened about 1830 by Joshua Dixon, in a house now occupied by D. Metz. He was followed in trade by Adam Powers and David Shearer. Later came Brungard & Davison, at the stand where was afterwards Tobias Hahn. The store was burned in 1851, and was rebuilt by Hahn. It was afterwards occupied by Henry Miller, Tobias Hahn, and at present contains the store of John F. Smith. South of this building, Henry Miller put up and occupied a good business house, which was burned in 1870, when occupied by Brungard & Bro. Seven years later, Tobias Hahn opened a large store near by, which, in August, 1878, was robbed, and burned by the burglars to prevent detection. Besides the store mentioned, there are in trade J. G. Smith, H. A. Whelk, and R. L. Floor, the latter having a drug-store.

The establishment of the post-office cannot be clearly determined. Among the postmasters have been David Shearer, T. Hahn, David Johnson, Henry Miller, and the present, Abraham McCurley. The office has a daily mail from Youngstown.

As physicians are remembered Drs. Elisha Murray, Greble, Connor, Henry, Zimmerman, and Frank Floor. The present practitioners are Drs. R. L. and John Floor.

The first public-house was kept by Samuel Moore, before 1830, in a building which stood on the site of J. G. Bacher's residence. In the old house Adam Powers, John B. Miller, Wm. Forbus, and David Johnson were among the keepers. The latter built the present house after the destruction of the old one, in 1851. At this stand Oliver Stanford was the last landlord.

South of this place was another public-house, in which Shearer, Dixon, Cox, etc., kept entertainment. At one time the village had four taverns. John Welker is the present innkeeper.

About the first attempt at manufacturing in the village was made in 1841 by Welker, Pease & Co., who put up a carding-mill which was operated by horse-power. In afteryears there was a distillery in this building ; and still later, machinery was supplied to carry on the manufacture of linseed oil. Steam-power was then employed. In 1871, while the property of T. Hahn, the building was burned to the ground.

In 1870 a stock company of twenty members was formed to build a steam grist-mill in the village. After the lapse of several years this property passed into the hands of Fred. Fouser, and was destroyed in the conflagration of Aug. 27, 1878. The present mill was soon after built by Mr. Fouser, and is now successfully operated by him. The village has a full complement of the ordinary mechanic-shops.

On section 6, Adam Hahn, the original settler there, had a saw-mill on Yellow Creek before 1805 ; later, his son Andrew had a mill, and at present the Printz family have here in operation a steam saw-mill.

la 1845, Daniel Summers established a tannery on the south line of section 5, which has been carried on, since 1848, by Simeon Summers. It has about twenty vats.

Springfield Schools

There being no records, but little can be said about the schools of the township. The subject of education does not seem to have received as great attention here as in some other localities ; and the appropriations for schools have not been as liberal as in the surrounding townships. Lately, however, several fine school-houses have been built, and there appears to be an increasing disposition to advance in this respect.

The sub-districts had the following clerks in 1879 : No. 1, Richard Warner; No. 3, Obadiah Peters; No. 5, S. Hassness ; No. 6, W. C. Trucksess ; No. 7, Solomon Paulin ; No. 8, Uriah Schillinger ; No. 9, Richard McConnell; No. 10, Daniel Miller.

The pioneer of Springfield was quickly followed by the self-sacrificing missionary, who was imbued with a strong zeal to plant the banner of the church on the very verge of the settlements. One of the foremost of these was the Rev. John Stouch, representing the interests of the Lutheran Church. He came as early as 1803, and preached in the German language in this and the adjoining townships, traveling many miles on his circuit, and everywhere being made welcome. As a result of his labors was established. In 1804 the people of that section of the township united to build a log meeting-house, which should be consecrated to the use of the members of the Lutheran and Reformed Churches, to which most of the inhabitants adhered. This house was located in the then centre of the population, on the southeast corner of section 14, on a lot of ground which was, in part, devoted to burial purposes. This lot has been enlarged, and is yet used for its original purposes. The log house was displaced in 1842 by the present commodious church-building, which was erected under the trusteeship of Jabob Elser, Joshua Hahn, and others. The property has always been controlled by a board of trustees, elected by the Lutheran and Reformed congregations worshiping here, the present members being Noah Burkey and David Smith.

The Lutheran congregation flourished beyond the expectations of its founders, and from its fold have gone many members to form the other congregations of this faith in the township. Among those who originally belonged to the congregation were the Elser, Ilgenfritz, Lousher, Kale, Hahn, and other families. The church council contained among others Jacob Elser, Joshua Halm, Henry Kale, John Beight, Philip Iloffmaster, Win. Maury,

John II. Miller, David Miller, Frederick Mack, John Ilgenfritz, Christian Seidner, Jacob Wolf, Gottlieb Dressel, and Ludwick Mack. The latter and Leonard Gerring are the present elders ; and Jacob Reider and Moses Beight the deacons.

The congregation has at present about 100 members, and is under the spiritual tutelage of the Rev. John Humberger, who also ministers to other churches in this township and Unity. Other pastors, from 1803 till the accession of Mr. Humberger in 1877, were the Revs. Stouch, Hewitt, Shaefer, Harter, Haelsche, Hoffman, Ellinger, Baechler, Seiglan, Schlotterman, Nuffar, Kramer, and Schillinger.

The Reformed congregation was gathered together some time about 1810 by the Rev. Peter Mahnesmith, a missionary, who also became the first pastor, continuing many years. He was followed in that office by the Revs. Englebach, Wahl, Reinhard, and Naelle ; and, since 1870, the congregation has been under the direction of the Rev. John Meckley, residing-at Petersburgh, and being also the minister of the Salem congregation in Unity. The charge has 240 members. Among the older and more prominent members of the Springfield congregation were Jacob Greenamyer, John Musser, Peter Smith, Henry Raub, John Myers, John Kuver, Jacob Seip, David George, John Horner, and John Seip.

was organized about 1841, with 60 members, formerly belonging to the congregations in Unity and the old Springfield church. Rev. A. Haelsche was the first pastor, and his successors were the Revs. Miller, Sieglan, Schlotterman, Nuffar, Kramer, Schillinger, and Humberger.

In 1842 a plain but neat meeting-house was built on the southeast quarter of section 21, which has been used as a place of worship by the congregation ever since. It is locally known as the " Shroy Church.-' Connected therewith is an attractive grave-yard.

The congregation at present has about 120 members and the following council : Elders, G. Geiger and Christian Marks ; Deacons, D. Koch and G. Brickman.

About 1827 a number of German families residing around New Springfield built a small log house on section 28, in which was established a German school, taught by a man named Widmeyer. Shortly after, religious meetings were held in this house, and, with some interruption, were continued until about ten years ago. Among those who preached were men named Stephens, Hoffman, and lleutz, none of whom were ordained ministers. The members all strove to make the study of the Scriptures the rule of life, and all were privileged to expound them according to their understanding. They were simple in their habits, and strove to live pious, devout lives. Among the members were John Myers, George Schillinger, John G. Bucher, Jacob Hoffman, John Schiller, Jacob Mackenfoos, Solo- was organized early in 1849, and was composed chiefly of members who had become disaffected because of tbe conduct of some of the members of the old Springfield church, in refusing to concede to the pastor, the Rev. J. G. Ellinger, the liberty of holding revival- and prayer-meetings. His adherents united, and chose David Miller and Frederick Ilgenfritz a building committee, and the same summer a comfortable meeting-house was built on the southeast corner of section 11. It has since been repaired and otherwise beautified.

The congregation has about 7U members, under the pastoral care of the Rev. John Henry Houseman. Other pastors have been tbe Revs. John G. Ellinger, Guenther Wagner, Miller, Roller, and Smith. The church council is composed of John F. Miller, Eli Faust, John Ilgenfritz, Benjamin Metz, Levi Hoffmaster, and John H. Miller. The Sabbath-school is superintended by Eli Faust.

The Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church Of

was formally constituted Dec. 29, 1854, with the following members : Henry Miller, George Miller, George Mentzer, Samuel Miller, John C. Lower, Jacob Smith, Jr., Elias Paulin, Hannah Paulin, Catharine Sprinkle, Elizabeth Miller, and Mary Lower.

The Rev. J. G. Ellinger became the first pastor, remaining until 1863. His successor was the Rev. Wm. B. Roller, who ministered until April, 1876. After a few months the Rev. Wm. M. Smith became the pastor for a year. Another vacancy followed, but since October, 1878, the pastorate has been filled by the Rev. John Henry Houseman, this church and the one at New Middleton forming a charge.

The first elders were Elias Paulin and Henry Miller, the present ones are Jacob Spait and Jacob Shaffer. The first deacons were George Miller and George Mentzer, the present are Wilson S. Hadley and John Pfau. These offices have also been held by L. F. Hadley, Michael Miller, John Spait, Solomon Paulin, John Lower, Adam Harman, Samuel Miller, John P. Sonneudecker, Henry Sprinkle, and Adam Seidner.

In 1854 a small brick meeting-house was built for the use of the society, on the north line of section 30, on land procured from John C. Lower. This was demolished in 1871, and a neat edifice erected in the village of New Springfield. It is of brick, 40 by 60 feet, and is crowned with a steeple. On the same lot is a comfortable parsonage. The church has a vigorous membership, and supports a Sundayschool, superintended by Leander Hoffman. It has about 75 attendants.

The Methodist Episcopal Church Of Petersburgh

and wife, George Bartlett and wife, Abraham McNutt and wife, James Wallace and wife, John Pontius and wife, John K. Swisher and wife, P. H. Swisher and wife, Mrs. Mellinger, Susan Wallace, and D. Coffin. Only one of these is now connected with the society, viz., Mrs. P. H. Swisher. The meetings were first held in private houses, but in 1836 a meeting-house was built in the village by a board of trustees, composed of James Wallace, John K. Swisher, and Abraham McNutt. In 1872 this house was enlarged and improved, being now an inviting church, 40 by 62 feet, having a steeple and bell.

The church numbers 130 members, under the pastoral care of the Rev. J. B. Wright, appointed to this charge in October, 1878. The winter following, his labors were crowned with many conversions, from which source the membership of the church was increased by 40 additions. Another notable revival occurred in 1872, under the pastoral labors of the Rev. William Branfield, the accessions being 80.

This body was organized in 1873, while the Rev. B. F. Schillinger was the pastor of the old church, on section 14, to which most of the constituent membership belonged. At the time of its formation the congregation had about 60 members; at present the number is 120. Mr. Schillinger supplied the church with preaching until October, 1874, when the Rev. J. L. Trauger became the pastor, and still continues that relation, ministering in the English language,

In 1813, David Maneval, John Schnabel, and Christian Sitler, as a building committee, erected a very handsome church, 40 by 52 feet, at a cost of $3600, in which services are regularly maintained. The church council is at present composed of Trustees S. H. Hahn, Samuel Koch, John F. Maurer ; Elders, John Schnable and Philip Auer ; Deacons, Conrad Thum and C. F. Winter.

The Presbyterian Church Of Petersburgh

This society was organized in 1872 by the Rev. Robert S. Morton, with a dozen members. The meetings were first held in the Methodist church, but measures were soon taken to build a house of worship. In 1873 a committee was appointed, composed of Samuel Wallace, Jacob Musser, and Andrew Kneasel, who erected, on Market Street, an attractive and well-appointed edifice, at a cost of $3700. It was dedicated in June, 1874, and has been the home of the church ever since. In connection with the congregation at Little Beaver, Pa., Mr. Morris has served this church as pastor ever since its formation. There are at present about 50 members. The ruling elders are Samuel Wallace, A. L. Martin, John Kerr, and Albert Bonnett ; and the trustees, Andrew Kneasel, James A. Davison, and Jacob Musser. The congregation maintains a Sundayschool which numbers 60 members, and has A. L. Martin for superintendent.

Tiie Church Of The Evangelical Association At

Before 1850 members of this faith bad occasional pl eaching by the ministers of the Columbiana County circuit, and a class was formed embracing the Schade, Felger, and Snyder families. Worship was held in private houses and in the school-house until 1870, when their present churchedifice was erected, and was the first in the village. The building committee was composed of Rev. J. Q. A. Weller, John Peters, and Jesse Smith. The house has respectable proportions, and was dedicated by Bishop Dubs. The present board of trustees are Benjamin Fcluer, Philip Felger, John Peters, Daniel Diser, and George Koons.

The members, numbering 52, form one class under the leadership of Benjamin Felger. Rev. Wilson Diser resides here as a local minister, and is also the superintendent of a flourishing Sabbath-school, having 76 members. This appointment is connected with the North Lima church, and the church of the Evangelical Association at New Middlleton, in forming a circuit, served by one pastor. Since 1877 the minister has been the Rev. J. D. Domer, residing at North Lima, in the parsonage of the circuit. Other ministers from the time the denomination began its work in these parts, in 1836, have been the Revs. Elias Stoever, S. Vangundey, George Dressell, C. G. Koch, Joseph Truby, Abraham Loehner, Joseph Dick, D. L. Miller, A. Stahley, A. Long, S. F. Crowther, G. W. Reisinger, Jacob Rank, G. S. Domer, J. D. Hollinger, J. J. Bernhart, J. Q. A. Weller, G. W. Davis, IV. Iloupt, and II. B. Summers.

The church at New Middleton embraced among its original members the Pitts and Miller families. Through the efforts of John Miller a small frame meeting-house was erected for the use of the denomination some time about 1845. This property is now controlled by G. P. Hoffmaster, Henry Pitts, A. S. McCurling, Peter Coller, and Henry Spitler, as trustees. Fifty-five persons constitute the membership, and Win. R. Martin is the leader of the

Some of the early settlers of the northwestern part of Springfield maintained the faith of the Brethren, or Dunkers, and meetings, according to their customs, have been held in houses, barns, and groves since 1820. Among the early members were John Summers, David Summers, Jacob Summers, David Brown, Jacob Haas, Mathias Haas, L. Shoemaker, and Henry Kurtz. The latter was one of the preachers more than thirty years. His predecessor was George Hoke. The preachers of a later day were James Quinter, Daniel Summers, and Richard Bretineman.

The present preachers are Jacob H. Kurtz and Jonas Hoke. About 1818 the first meeting-house was built on the Summers farm, near the southwest corner of section 5. This gave place, in 1873, to the present structure, a frame, 44 by 50 feet, occupying the same site. It is controlled by trustees, Simeon Longanecker, Eli Ruhlman, and Simeon Summers. The meeting is connected with the one on Zion Hill, in Beaver township, and has much the same history. At Bethel is a good Sunday-school, superintended by E. H. Ruhlman.

The cemetery used by the Brethren was located at an early day, near the centre of section 5, and is still continued there, although its situation is very inconvenient. The oldest cemetery in the township is the one connected with the old Springfield church. It contains a great many graves, some of which are marked by monuments of very creditable appearance. Many bear inscriptions in the German. Nearly all the churches maintain their own cemeteries, and, as a rule, they indicate that proper respect has been shown for the resting-places of the dead.

v\t Petersburgh a large cemetery has lately been located by some of the public-spirited citizens of the place. It embraces about four acres, situated on a little knoll north of the village, giving it excellent natural drainage. The grounds have been inclosed with a neat fence, and otherwise materially improved. With proper care it will become one of the finest cemeteries in this part of the country.