Iowa County, Wisconsin - Chapter with an unread heading (no. 18 of those read), 1881 (part 2 of 2)

The inhabitants are as varied in nationality as they well can be, for representatives of nearly every people, who are wont to come to this country from the civilized realms of Europe and Great Britain, may be found here. The west and southwest parts of the town are settled principally by the ingenious, fun-loving and hospitable descendants of the Emerald Isle. In the northeast part of the town may be found the sober, industrious Teuton, together with large numbers of the hardy and intelligent Welsh, who also occupy the largest part of the center of the town. The southeast quarter of the town is settled principally by the descendants of Odin, the enterprising Norwegian. Other parts of the town are occupied by a more mi.xed population, as English, Americans, Scotch and who constitute a large portion of the most energetic, intelligent and prosperous of the population. Their farms are usually very good, while many of them are exceptional in the essentials of superior location, fertility, and, in point of fact, all that pertains to the make-up of a complete farm.

The social, moral and intellectual qualities of the people of this section of the country are generally acknowledged to be of such a character to-day as to place them far above the average of excellence usually attained by the inhabitants of rural districts. This is pre-eminently the church town of the county ; and what is more remarkable and admirable still, is, that all of these numerous and varied religious societies, from the conservative Catholics to the ultra Methodists, appear to blend together harmoniously, and to act in a kindly and fraternally sympathetic manner, one toward the other. This one particular feature indicates, more especially than any other, the true caliber of the people. Their numerous schools are well attended and well supported, and the standing of the pupils is excellent. The accommodations provided are very good. One of the schoolhouses in this town, which is located on the farm of T. B. Watkins, is said to be the best of its kind in the county, while nearly all of the buildings are superior to those commonly in use.

The first settlement in this portion of the county was made cotemporary with the coming of Ebenezer Brigham into Dane County in 1828. Those azure elevations, the Blue Mounds, were probably the particular features of the landscape which attracted the first comers hither, for it was conjectured that lead would more than likely be found near them in abundance. This surmise proved correct, in the main, for one of the most extensive and best-paying lodes ever discovered in the State was struck by Mr. Brigham within a year after his coming here, from which in subsequent years, immense quantities of mineral were taken. A short distance from Mr. Brigham's diggings, to the west, J. B. Skinner who was for many years one of the leading men in the affairs of this section, in company with a man by the name of Jacob Pate, built the first furnace in the town and opened the first diggings. This was in 1828. This place was then called Patesville. During the same year, Hugh R. Porter established a smelting claim at what has since been known as Porter's Grove, and in the fall James and William Morrison came on, and in the spring following built a double-eye furnace here.

The Morrison furnace is well remembered by the oldest of the pioneers. It was located on Section 1 of Town 3. A sort of cavern was dug into the hillside, the front of the hole being rudely walled in, an opening being left in the wall for the ingress and egress of the workmen. This furnace was in full blast up to 1835, and perhaps later, at which time Mr. Morrison abandoned the business. Vestiges of this old institution for the manipulation of mineral, forty-five and fifty years ago, are still to be seen. The other furnaces spoken of have long since entirely disappeared.

Tom McRaney, Stephen Armstrong and Caleb Downing, with some others, also erected a furnace in the town about 1829, which stood near the junction of the Mound Creeks. The two Rankin brothers came into the town in 1828, but sold their claim in the spring of 1829 to William Garrison and Patrick Horine, who continued to operate here for several years. This place was afterward called Garrison's Grove. Samuel Charles and Jonathan Ferrill were other two of the early comers, they having commenced digging as early, certainly, as 1829. Ferrill was subsequently murdered by a man by the name of Crane, whom he was trying to drive off of his "diggings." This was the first death in the town.

There were many other miners working in the town before 1832, but they are not now remembered by the oldest settlers, and it is a wonder, indeed, that tliey have not all been forgotten through the shadows of oblivion, with which time is surely but slowly surrounding nearly all of those who now frequent the same scenes. Those old pioneers are now gone forever from the places which once knew them so well, and where their struggles and aspirations were expended, but what they have achieved is not lost, although to them may not have occurred a thought or a care for their successor. The effort of each individual in the varied changes of human progress is fraught with something of value or injury for those who follow, and happily for humanity all honest labor, no matter where or in what direction exerted, is sure to exert a beneficial influence, therefore, small as it may have been, a degree of good was realized from the work of the first white men who came here in paving the wa\' for those of to-day by first bringing to the wilderness a faint type of the civilization which has followed.

During the Indian troubles of 1832, the miners of the town were garrisoned at Mound Fort, on Brigham's place, a little east of the Dane County line, on Section 7, and were participants in the exciting events that transpired at that locality, especially mentioned in the general sketch of the Black Hawk war. After the war, the mining interest waned very rapidly, until by 1840 not anything of moment was being done in that direction or in smelting.

In 1835, the first marriage was consummated between William Garrison and a sister of Jonathan Ferrill, known under the patronymic of " Big Sis Ferrill."

The first fiirm in the town was opened bv James Morison as early as 1832 certainly, for by 1837 he had about thirty-five acres improved and a frame house built, which was doubtless the first of its kind in the town. There was a large grove of timber here, and also a splendid spring, which is yet active. This place is now known as the Moon farm.

Of the various permanent settlers who came into the town subsequent to 1832 (not mentioned) that were here in 1838, there were John Metcalf, Samuel AVoodruff, Mr. Rasdell, Ed Riley, William and Harmon Renshaw, G. W. Hickcox, Samuel Lowry, and William P. Ruggles, the oldest settler in the town, and the last one left of those who came here before 18-10. Mr. Rasdell married a squaw, and about 1837 moved to Madison, where he erected the Rasdell House, afterward known as the Jefi"erson House. John Metcalf was for years identified with the shot-tower in Old Helena, in the town of Wyoming, where Mr. Lowry, the only other remaining survivor besides Mr. Ruggles, is now living.

Among the settlers who located in the town from 1840 to 1845, were Mahlon Blicker, Azariah Mills, Sidney Cosmen, James Kelly, A. V. Moore. Ed Rodders, Anthony Quigley, Austin Willard, G. W. Stating, John Bailey, Zebulum Baxter. Hugh Dallett, Leonard Phillips, Manley

Very few of those enumerated above are now living here or elsewhere, but nearly all of them will be remembered. Of those who came into the town subsequent to 1844 and before 1850, we are enabled to mention D. H. Jones, Frank Ord, Thomas Jones, Dennis Doyle, Ed Ryan. Owen Kelley, John Riley, Archie McCormack, Frank and Joseph Martelle, Albert Camp, Ed Williams, John Adams, Thomas Champion, W. H. Virgin, Walter Reese, B. J. Davis, C. W. Rockwell, James Roberts, F. Watkins, Rev. T. B. Watkins, Richard Williams, Archibald Campbell, Richard Williams, John Kendrick, Robert, William and Evan Jones, Ben Davis, Ben Evans, John Powell, William Williams, Evan Lloyd, Henry Foulk, Richard Jones, J. L. Jones, Theobald, James Brunkert, James Smith.

The first settlement was made by the Americans, with perhaps a few Irish ; subsequently Irish, English, Welsh, Norwegians and Germans came. The nucleus of the present large and influential Irish section came in before 1850. Probably the oldest of these living settlers is James Kelley, of " Pokerville."

Large numbers of the Welsh came in before 1850, and located, principally near the center of the town. Of these the oldest living are David H- Jones and Rev. T. B. Watkins. There are also many others of the early Welsh settlers living, who came into the town soon after. Undoubtedly the Welsh have contributed as largely toward the prosperity and general development of the town to its present high standard, as any other nationality represented here.

About the oldest English families in town are the Sampsons, Thomas Street, Samuel Yapp and Thomas Hamley. Near Middlebury Post Office are some ten or twelve families of English and Scotch people from Prince Edward Island.

Mr. Campbell, of the historic Scotch clan, is one of the very oldest of the sturdy Scotts, of whom there are but few in the town, and who, in public matters, is the prominent representative man of this section of the county, and it may be added, State as well.

The Norwegians and Germans did not immigrate into the town, to any considerable extent, previous to 1855, but since that time they have rapidly augmented, until now they constitute a very large part of the population. Holver Holverson was probably the first of the Norwegian settlers.

The first regular town road was laid out at a very early time, from the military road to the old Hickcox mills, and thence to the old shot-tower at Helena. Near the junction of the two roads, about 1840, the old Sampson House was built, which, being on the direct line of travel, soon superseded the Hicox stand. This tavern was a famous stage rendezvous for a great many years, in fact almost until it rotted down. During the palmy days of staging, the old Frink & Walker Stage Company used to send a Concord coach-and-four rattling over the road both ways each day, but these eventually gave place to innovations in the shape of modern covered vehicle with few claims to stage perfection or the comforts of "ye olden time." As one event but treads on the heels of another in natural sequence through the course of civilization, so, at last, both ancient and modern stage appliances will be superseded by the railway coaches, and Jehu will have lost his occupation ; and, last but not least, on or near the old Sampson stand, will be located a station for the accommodation of wayfarers. Thus the wheel of change revolutionizes everything, from year to year, with irresistible power, and, often, benefit.

The first frame house in town was erected in Town 7, Range 4, for William P. Ruggles, in 1842, by Robert Wilson, since County Judge. This quaint old building is standing yet, with its huge fire-place and chimneys, reminding one of forty years ago. It is still the home of this veteran settler and his wife and family, and is an abode from which hospitality is extended with open hand and where comfort prevails.

A sketch of this town would be very imperfect if special mention was not made of the cheese and butter making interests. The first factory was built by Evan Jones, about eight years ago, on Section 34, about one mile north of the Middlebury church. There are two more near here, belonging, respectively, to Thomas Leason and Mrs. Jane Jones, both of which were built within the last seven years. The two first mentioned are double-vat factories, the last having a single vat. The cheese manufactured here is acknowledged to be as good in quality as can be produced anywhere, and brings the highest prices paid in the New York market.

Now that Ridgeway is to be traversed by a railroad, there will undoubtedly be both an increase in population and prosperity, and a corresponding improvement in the general condition of the people. Previous to the commencement of the grading, the town was solicited by the company to vote aid to the enterprise. This request was responded to by the people voting $15,000, but finally, to the great satisfaction of the inliabitants, the company, on account of certain stipulations which they had made that they chose to abrogate, released the town from its obligation. For this unexpected action on the part of the company, a vote of thanks of the commonwealth was returned, and, unquestionably, in the future, a more substantial expression of gratitude will be made in the general and hearty patronage that will be extended to the road.

Mills. - The Hickcox mill was one of the very first built in this part of the State, is still standing. Joseph Roulette, a noted French scout, guide and fur trader, was the original owner, furnishing the means with which George W. Hickcox built it. The saw-mill was built during the summer of 1839, and the grist-mill in .January, 18-10. As Hickcox had the entire charge of the building and running of the mill, it, by common consent, received his name. William P. Ruggles, who has spent forty-two years in the vicinity, first cut away the brush on the site of the mill. With three others, all young men like himself, he spent about ten days in an open wagon while they were engaged in putting up a shanty for more comfortable and permanent shelter. This shanty, built in April, 1839, was the first one erected on (northwest corner) Section 34. The Hickcox mill, when completed, drew custom from a range of country extending from twenty to forty miles in every direction. Grists were drawn here with ox-teams, and here was the rendezvous for settlers from Stoner's Prairie (near Madison), Elk Grove, Sugar River, etc. The hardy woodsmen of Baraboo and the equally hardy miners from Gratiot's Grove often met here. The only road to it for a long time was one leading from the old military road, which ran east and west along the ridge, three and one-half miles south of the mill. Francis Martelle ground the first grist, and is best remembered as the first miller. One bushel of corn only was ground during the week following the completion of the mill, yet, for years after, tiie roar of its machinery was to be heard day and night. For the past thirty years, the property has been in litigation, and not a wheel has moved in the old building since the nation's centennial.

In this connection, a few words concerning Mr. Hickcox, the builder of the above mill, will not come amiss. G. W. Hickcox came to Ridgeway from Utica, N. Y., in 1836, and located on Section 14, Town 6, Range 4. Here he built a log house, which was for several years the principal stopping-place for travelers who were passing through the county over the old military road, near which it stood. This old house is standing yet, " a relic of by-gone days." Of Mr. Hickcox, personally, it can be said that those who knew him bear testimony to the excellence of his character. He was the founder of one of the first churches in the town, and a leader in all good works.

Since the construction of the Hickcox mill, there have been four flour-mills built and one or two saw-mills. The second mill was built in 18.56, by William Hyde, on Section 23, Town 7. This was burned in 1873 ; subsequently it was rebuilt by Thomas Reese ; this mill is known as Hyde's Mill. There is a grist-mill owned by P. Theobald and the estate of Dr. Burrali, of Dodgeville, situated on Section 5, near Middlebury Post Office ; one on Section 34, Town 7, and one in the extreme northwest corner of the town, on Section 9, besides a saw-mill which is located on Section 19, Town 7, near Hyde's mills.

Post Offices. - The first post-oflice^in town, known as the Ridgeway oflice, was established about 1840, with G. W. Hickcox, the distributing point for the mail being at his old log tavern

the Hickcox place, now owned by Russell Farwell. This office has since been kept by W. H. Virgin, Thomas and J. F. Strutt and George Farwell, who is the present Postmaster.

Middlebury Post Office was established about 1860, with Alexander Campbell as Postmaster. The subsequent Postmasters have been Archie and James Camel, Harrison Lowe, and Ed Theobald, the present incumbent.

Jennietown - The first settler here was David Williams, who did not long survive. He was a blacksmith, as was his successor, Owen Jenkins. The littlehamlet was first called Jenkinsville ; but eventually, the name of the office was changed to Jennieton, at the suggestion of Judge Crawford, in honor of his wife (Jennie Sweet), now the wife of J. M. Smith, of Mineral Point. The first Postmaster here was David Simpson ; Carl Evers, who keeps a hotel at this point, is now Postmaster. A station on the Milwaukee & Madison line has been located here.

Hyde's Mills office was first kept at the house of William P. Ruggles, being called Rugglesdale office. But when it was removed to the present place, which is near Hyde's Mills, the name was changed. John Hughes, who keeps a store at this point, is the present official.

The only other office in the town, aside from " Paperville," as already described, is Barber, which has not been established very long. Anton 0. Ronsti is the Postmaster at this place.

Churches. - The Revs. T. M. Fullerton and Seymour S. Stover are remembered as being the first ministers who visited this section of the country. Mr. Fullerton, who is still engaged in ministerial labors, came into the county about 1837-38, he being then a young man. Mr. Stover came after 1840. These were both Methodists, as were nearly all of the pioneer ministers. But the minister who is the best remembered was David Jones, a Welshman. He was one of the most indefatigable workers that ever labored in this county, and did more by far to build churches and advance the Christian cause than any single person who has succeeded him. Mr. Jones was not only a devoted Christian worker, but he was also a temperance man to the heart's core, and circulated the first temperance pledge in the town. He came here as early as 1846, and during that year the first organized effort was made by founding a Sabbath school. In this work. Rev. T. B. Watkins, who has preached here for many years, was largely influential. The first schools were held in the log cabin of Richard Williams, which stood near the present White Church.

The first churches built were what is known as the White Church, erected in 1849, on Section 3, Town 6, Range 5, and a church built as early as 1845, on Section 14, Town 6, Range 4. The latter church was erected in connection with a Presbyterian Society, founded by G. W. Hickcox, in a very early day, but which did not last only a few years.

The White Church, so called on account of its color, was erected by the Welsh Congregationalists. Several different denominations aided, however, in the work. This church is used occasionally by the Norwegians.

There are now in all ten churches in the town, representing several different denominations, as Methodists, Baptists, Congregationalists, Calvinists, Catholics, etc.

The Catholic Church is the largest church. It is located on Section 15, Township 6, Range 4, and has the largest society. The first church was built in 1850. In 1877, this had become so small, that the present fine structure was erected to accommodate the society.

The other churches are located as follows : One on Section 6, Township 6, Range 5, Baptist; one on Section 11, Township 6, Range 4 ; one on Section 22, Township 6, Range 5; one on Section 2, Township 6, Range 5 ; one on Section 27, Township 7, Range 5 ; one on Section 24, Township 7, Range 4, Congregational ; one on Section 7, Township 6, Range 5.

There are several cemeteries in the town, the oldest of these being located on land presented by Mr. Hickcox to the town in 1844. This cemetery was at first connected with the old Presbyterian Church already mentioned.

Official Town Record. - The first meeting for the organization under town government, was held at the house of J. B. Skinner, on the 3d of April, 1849 ; there were seventy votes cast. J. B. Skinner was elected Chairman ; Mahlon Blocker and C. W. Rockwell, Supervisors ;

Joseph Roberts, Clerk ; D. H. Jones, Assessor; John Culver, Treasurer; G- W. Hickcox, School' Superintendent, and Edward Riley, W. R. Sampson, Walter Reese and B. J. Davis, Justices ; three mills on a dollar were voted for roads, two for schools, and an appropriation of $100 was made for incidental expenses. During the war about $10,000 was raised to pay bounties. The following is a list of the officers from 18.50 to 1880 :

1850 - John B. Skinner, Chairman ; W. A. Ward and H. Renshaw, Supervisors ; Walter Rees, Town Clerk; C. F. Parks, Collector and Treasurer; David H. Jones, Assessor; School Superintendent, G. W. Hickcox.

West Blue Mounds

West Blue Mounds, best, known as " Pokerville," has at least two peculiarities, - its name and location. The first settler here was Thomas Champion, an English bachelor, who built a cabin in 1845. In 1846, he sold two and a half acres to Hiram Carter and one Giblett. They erected a frame hotel, then began playing poker. Giblett was a professional gambler, and Carter soon learned. One Wilson built a saloon here, and about that time Ira Isham, a Dane County farmer, dubbed the place "Pokerville." During the palmy days of lead mining, and up to war times, the game of poker was the leading " industry" of the village. John Adams was the first merchant here. He was a Kentuckian, and was one of the early settlers of Dodgeville. The firm of Wilson, Isaacson & Green succeeded him. C. B. Arnold came in July, 1854, and bought the Carter-Giblett hotel. It burned in 1857, and on the site, within ten weeks, he erected his present hotel. Joseph Eising was the first and only cabinet-maker. Mahlon Bleaker, who settled two miles west, in 1840, came here and opened the first blacksmithshop. In 1848, Squire John Helmenstine came, and is the veteran shoemaker. His father came with him, and is now living here. Grant Barnes, Matthews Leeuy (first tailor), M. Husbrook, and G. W. (Wash) Miller were well remembered settlers here.

When the site of Pokerville was a bushy waste, the old Blue Mounds Post Office was established, with Col. Ebenezer Brigham as Postmaster. During James Buchanan's administration, C. B. Arnold was appointed, and, with the removal, the name of the office was changed to West Blue Mounds, which name it has since retained. In 1861, Edward Dale was appointed, it being kept by his daughter Sarah for a time after her father's enlistment in the Union service. The office was then half a mile east from the village, in Dane County.

John Helmenstine, Jr., was the next appointee, then C. B. Arnold, who was succeeded by the incumbent, W. H. Jones. The mound itself is owned by C. B. Arnold, who bought it in 1862, of Louis Lewis, Lewis having purchased it of the Government.

There are now in Pokerville three stores, two hotels, with a number of shops. Religious services are held in the schoolhouse, built in 1854 ; Miss Caroline Thomas was the first teacher here. The M. D.'s have been Messrs. Cutler, Coon, Stair, Hanson, Flower and R. W. Jones. The latter is now the only resident practitioner. Henry Stellsman was the first and for years the only butcher. The completion of the Milwaukee & Madison Railroad has raised the hopes of the " Pokervillians," and the sound of the saw and hammer are now ringing against the wooded sides of the mound.

Among the early settlers here were David H. Jones, Edward Riley, William R. Sampson, Harmon Renshaw, Ole Narveson and Thomas Borthwick. The latter was also the first stonemason, and assisted in the erection of old Fort Crawford at Prairie du Chien.

In connection with the various interesting features of this locality, must not be forgotten the West Blue Mound Springs. These springs, which are the property of Mrs. Arnold, are said to possess chalybeate virtues of a very high order, and, in connection with the remarkably beautiful scenery of the locality and healthful altitude of the Mounds, will undoubtedly in the near future secure a fair share of the public watering-place patronage. The larger of these springs is quite remarkable on account of its situation, size and the character of its water ; taken altogether, this is probably the most naturally beautiful and interesting spot in this portion of the State.

Causes Celebre. - One early frontier experience or incident of an unusual order deserves mention, as it exhibits the manner in which any violation of individual rights was very apt to be treated in the early days. It appears that a testy old gentleman, an Englishman or German, had rented his farm to a brother Welshman or vice versa. But before the renter's time was out, the owner of the place concluded that he wanted it vacated, and would have it vacated. In order to accomplish this, a not very commendable stratagem was resorted to by shooting through a window or something of the sort, in very close proximity to the tenant's head. The result of this was that the tenant becoming frightened for his life, left the place, whereupon the proprietor moved in. At this time, the crops which had been harvested, were standing in the field ; but a large number of the abused laborer's friends and neighbors determined that they should not remain there, or at least what belonged to him, so they proceeded in quite a body to make a division of them, and hauled off his share. This proceeding of course aroused the ire of our landlord, and he at once began suit against them for damages. The suit was tried before John Messersmith, who decided against the defense, sentencing them either to return the amount of produce removed or to pay for the same. In turn, the parties, or a number of men in town (unknown), disguised themselves, and proceeded to the house of the prosecutor, took him from his bed all en negligee, and also took a son from the garret, who tried to defend himself with a shot-gun, dragged them out doors, and taking a lot of stout sprouts gave them a sharp flagellation. An attempt was also made to dope them with tar, but the weather being cold, the tar refused, fortunately for the victims, to act. After having received a summary castigation, they were released with a warning that in the future they must have a care, or they would be helped out of the country in a very unceremonious manner. The effect of this method of treating them, although rough, proved very salutary, as they were more consistent citizens thenceforth.

Town Of Wyoming

Socially, educationally and morally, the town of Wyoming may be truthfully said to be superior to the majority of the towns in the county. It is practically a temperance town. A license for the sale of liquor has never been granted in the town, nor has a saloon been tolerated for any length of time. Several attempts at saloon keeping have been made, but have always resulted in complete failure.

Wyoming, though not settled permanently until fifteen years after the discovery of mineral at Dodgeville, and the founding of old Helena, is now one of the leading towns in the county. The art of agriculture had been pursued in other sections of the county for twelve years with considerable success, while the fertile valleys of Wyoming were yet lying lonely among its unattractive ridges, and gave no evidence of the mine of agricultural wealth contained within its borders. And it was not until the advent of the year 1843, when William Jenkins and J. M. Jones found their way to the Wyoming Valley, that the stillness was dispelled by the husbandman's voice and the soil disturbed in its lethargic repose. These pioneers located on Section 3, Town 7, Range 3, and together erected a small log house. Mrs. Jenkins was the first white woman to venture into the wilderness and take up an abode among the savage inhabitants of the fort'St. Here Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Jones, in partnership, broke land and raised the first crop of wheat in the town. These were followed by B. S. Rollins, a native of Maine, who located here in the spring of 1844, and built a small log cabin and began the cultivation of a few acres of land. He remained hei'e for several years, being rewarded for his labors with a fair share of success.

In the spring of 1845, several very desirable additions were made to the population of the town, in the persons of L. W. Joiner, 0. F. Levake, Gilberth Franklin and Mr. Noyes, who made their appearance in the town and began opening up farms in different parts of the valley. Messrs. Joiner and Levake were the first New Englanders in the town, being natives of Vermont. The settlers who were here then soon developed considerable tracts of land, and the results, productively, being very favorable, Wyoming was brought before the public in such a light as to attract numerous emigrants who were seeking homes in the most valuable agricultural districts in Iowa County. Among those who found their way into this territory during the fall of 1845, were William S. Richardson, a native of Tennessee, and G. W. Richardson, of Missouri, who also settled in the Wyoming Valley where they have developed fine farms. They were followed, in the spring of 1846, by George Franklin, Alexander and Samuel Darrow, James, Isaac, G. W. and J. Fann. At an early day, a man named Snead, with Messrs. Hunter ami Miner, located claims at the head of the creek since distinguished by the historic appellation of Snead Creek, and opened up the first forms in that section. In the fall of 1846, Thomas McClure settled on a claim at the head of Snead Creek.

During the succeeding years from 1847 to 1860, the population of the town increased very rapidly ; the enterprising people laid out and developed the numerous well-tilled and valuable farms now spread out before us in the differents parts of its broken surface.

To the citizens of this now prosperous town, great credit is due for the strict maintenance of the principles of industry and morality presented in the every-day life of the early pioneers. Many of those who were among the first in the town are still living here, and to them, more than to any of the later settlers, is due the honor of instituting such measures as have placed their Wyoming in its present prominent position in the estimation of the public.

Messrs. Gear, Joiner, Lavake, Richardson, Parks and Lowry are now the oldest settlers of the town who came after 1840. Messrs. Joiner, Sr. and Jr., are the leading men in public affairs in this section of the county.

Schools. - The citizens of Wyoming enjoy school privileges excelled by few towns in the county; and these educational advantages were not attained all at once nor without much effort. In the fall of 1845, the settlers of Wyoming Valley banded themselves together and erected a small log schoolhouse on Section 34. That rough temple of learning, which many distinguished men recall in the glamour that memory throws around their youth, as their only alma mater, was for several years the only seat of learning in the town. The first teacher here was Miss Mary Ann Noyes, who trained the minds of sixteen pupils, the total number of school age in the district at that time. Eventually, as the settlement increased, schoolhouses were erected in different parts of the town, and improvements in that respect kept pace with the general development, until now the educational advantages of Wyoming have reached a standard of superiority that might well be emulated by others more favored in some respects.

Churches. - Religious services were first held in the old log schoolhouse on Section 34, during the year 1846, and a Methodist class formed by twelve local preachers of Dodgeville and vicinity, with T. M. Fullerton, the pioneer "circuit rider," at their head. The people here were attended during the two following years, alternately, by the local preachers who came out from Dodgeville regularly, without price but for the love of their Master.

In 1848, a Congregational class was formed, and Rev. A. D. Vaughn, then a young man, was employed and continued to preach here for fourteen years. The members of this class were Gilbert T. Franklin and wife, 0. F. Levake and wife, William Jenkins and wife. Mrs. Fann, Mr. and Mrs. Shields, of Dodgeville ; Henry Pasche, Mrs. L. W. Joiner, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, of Helena. This society still exists and is in a flourishing condition.

At the time the Congregational society was organized, it assumed the name of the Wyoming Church, after which the valley, and eventually the town, received the same name.

About the year 1851 a Reformed Presbyterian society was organized by the families of Messrs. Bernard, Darrows, Graham and Franklin, most of whom were natives of Prince Edward Island. Soon after the organization, they erected a substantial church building on Section 35, at a cost of $800. This congregation held services here regularly for about ten years, then, a majority of the members having moved to other parts, the society was disbanded and the church sold to the Congregationalists for a consideration of $400. This church is now occupied by the Congregationalists and Methodists in common. The Catholics of the town are members of the Ridgeway Congregation, where they attend services.

Manufacturing. - The first mill in the town was built in 1848, by Anson Grandison, Enoch and Samuel Wood, and W. Shepard, and was located on Section 11, near the head of Rush Creek. It has changed proprietors repeatedly, and is now the property of John Richardson, but has not been operated for several years.

In 1879, Jones Brothers erected a grist-mill at the mouth of Dodge Valley, on Section 25, and put in one run of stone and feed grinder. The dam of this mill has a head of fourteen feet.

In 1850, George Squires built a furniture factory on Section 3, Township 7, which he continued with varying success until 1880, when the business was abandoned.

As early as 1846, W. J. Allen and a Mr. Fisk started a lumber-yard on the Wisconsin River, near the mouth of Dodge's Creek. This subsequently passed into the hands of Hugh McCutchin and P. King, who for many years did a very extensive business. This establishment is now owned by Owen King, and is recognized as being one of the best lumber-yards on fhe Wisconsin River.

The earliest marriages in the town were those of Rev. A. D. Loughlin to Elizabeth Franklin, and Hugh Franklin to Mary Richardson, which culminated in 1848.

Jonesdale - Toivn Organization. - In 1852, one enterprising citizen of the town, named John M. Jones, located on Section 21, and, with the assistance of Barrett Williams, there laid out the village subsequently named, to commemorate his efforts, Jonesdale. Barrett Williams started a store here the same year, and laid the foundation for a saw-mill. Soon after, Thomas Lane, of Dodgeville, opened a store in the village, and, in company with Barrett Williams, erected a grist-mill on the foundation built for the saw-mill. They put in two runs of stone, and subsequently a carding-machine was attached. The mill changed hands several times, and finally was carried away by the spring freshet.

The business interests of this promising burg were at one time represented by merchants, mechanics, blacksmiths, shoemakers, carpenters and a tavern. For a few years the population of the village increased rapidly, and its future looked bright, indeed. But the enchanting hopes of its sanguine inhabitants were speedily dissolved when the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad passed on the opposite side of the river. Eventually the village of Jonesdale was abandoned, the merchants, shopkeepers and mechanics left for more promising parts, and this once flourishing municipality is now placed with the annals of the past, and its pretending streets and thoroughfares have long since been converted into more profitable corn and potato fields. The site of this decayed village is now the property of S. C. Oleson.

Post Offices. - The Wyoming Post Ofiice, located on Section 35, was established in 1848. William S. Richardson was appointed first Postmaster. He was succeeded by Robert Rule, who established a stand in Wyoming Valley in 1852. Four years later, Mr. Rule disposed of his store to Warren Perciville, who also took charge of the post office. Subsequently, 0. Hopkins started a shop and became Postmaster. About the beginning of the war, W. J. Allen opened a store in the town and was appointed Postmaster, which position he held until 1870, when William Roberts took the store and office. In 1878, J. C. Eagan, the incumbent, took charge of the office. The mails have been received here constantly for thirty-three years, sometimes daily, but generally twice a week.

At the point where the office is now kept on Section - , there is quite a little hamlet, containing Mr. Eagan's store, the blacksmith and wagon-shop of C. Riley, the Congregational Church, and a neat town hall, besides dwelling-houses. The town hall here is certainly a credit to the enterprise and public spirit of the citizens, as it is one of the very best if not the best in the county.

Societies. - Helena Valley Patrons of Husbandry, No. 491, was organized several years ago, and, at one time, was so strong as to represent one-half the farm property in the town. The organization has, however, dwindled to its present status of thirty members, and represents not more than one-fifth of the property in the town.

Wyoming Lodge, No. 314, Good Templars, was organized in 1865 with fifty charter members. This commendable society has steadily increased from year to year, until at present it is the fourth largest lodge in the State, numbering 125 members. Meeting room is furnished by the town free of rent.

Wyoming Indian War. - In early times, when the white population was small, comparatively speaking, and the native aborigines were numerous, Indian " scares " were of frequent occurrence. Though many of these were without foundation, yet they had a dire effect upon the early pioneers. In 1846, Mrs. McClure, wife of Thomas McClure, was met by a Winnebago Indian, who with his peculiar gestures and menacing attitudes was understood to be un- friendly and threatening hostility. Mrs. McClure was naturally frightened, and, as soon as practicable, reported her experiences to the few settlers in the neighborhood. Easily excited in those days, they formed a small body, and with L. W. Joiner as Captain, they started in pursuit of the savages. While crossing the ridge, the Indians were espied camped on an island in the Wisconsin River. Forthwith the little band of whites took to boats, and crossing the river selected the object of their search and proceeded to gratify their revenge. The Indian was found to be sick with the measles, and his squaw, to prevent the punishment about to be inflicted, threw herself between the enraged whites and the victim. Touched by this exhibition of devotion on the part of the untutored squaw, the whites withdrew from the camp and departed for their several homes. The Indians, however, left the country, and in future years the scattering settlers were not disturbed by the hostile savage.

Town Organization. - On Section 9, Town 7, Range 3, is located Percussion Rock, so called by a party of miners from its peculiar shape. It is 180 feet high, perpendicular on one side and shaped like an old tower or furnace. Its top is inaccessible. At first this section was called Percussion Precinct, in honor of the rock, but in 1849, when the town government was organized, the name was changed to Wyoming, after Wyoming Church. Unfortunately, we are unable to make an official record, owing to a fire having desti-oyed the early town books. During the war of the rebellion, this town responded nobly to the call to arms, and furnished men and money liberally for the support of the Government founded by our forefathers. Ten thousand dollars was promptly subscribed for war purposes.

Helena

The point of greatest interest in the north part of the county, from 1828 until 1840, was what is usually termed Old Helena, which was located on Section 29, in what is now the town of Wyoming. As will be seen in the general history, the first village in the county was planted here in 1828, the intention then being to build a place at that point which would rival Galena, as by that means the great water thoroughfare of Wisconsin could be utilized advantageously for the shipping of lead, and also for transporting all needful supplies into the country. In 1828, there were a few huts, but the principal objects to be seen were the stakes that marked out the town lots. In 1829, a large hewed-log house was erected by three Morison brothers, who also broke a few acres of land. In 1830, this house was purchased by George Medary, who moved there with his family and opened a sort of hotel, and also did, or rather attempted to do, legal business. Soon after him, William Green, who was afterward killed by the Indians, came here with his wife and erected a comfortable log house and pre-empted the land where the shot-tower was afterward built. The first white child born in the north part of the county was a son of Mr. Green's. The Government erected a small building for storing lead and supplies, in 1829, and stationed an agent here. In 1830, Frank Guyon opened a store here, and for a short time the prospects for building up a smart little town were good, but alas for human hopes, the Black Hawk war came on, the place was abandoned and that was the last of it.

After the war, in 1833, Daniel Whitney, Platte & Co., heavy capitalists for that time, came here and made arrangements for erecting the shot-tower, and platted a piece of land, one and a half miles east of where the first settlement was made, near where Owen King's lumber-yard is now located, at the mouth of Mill Creek. Thomas B. Chaunce, of whom many funny anecdotes are related, was engaged by them to sink the shaft. The side of the bluff was cut down vertically until a large horizontal surface could be obtained upon which to build the tower; then a hole was blasted down through the solid rock to the depth of 100 feet, after which a drift was run in at the base of the bluff, to intercept it, which was large enough for a man to enter. These are still to be seen. It is related, that while the shaft was being sunk, a large party of Indians came up in their canoes, just as a blast went off; hearing the noise and seeing the smoke come out of the side of the bluff, with no apparent cause, as no one was in sight, so frightened them that they all rushed pell-mell into their canoes and beat a hasty retreat, thinking probably that the Old Nick was after them. A horse belonging to Peter Lloyd once jumped from Cap Bluff, near this place, into Mill Creek, without sustaining any injury - an almost incredible feat, as the distance is very great.

A shot-tower was erected over the shaft, after its completion, of sufficient height to give a fall of 180 feet, then John Metcalf was employed to begin the work of casting shot, which may be said to have continued, almost uninterruptedly, from 1835 until 1841. The shot kegs were made by a Scotchman, John Wilson, .well remembered among the pioneers as one of the very accomplished men who came to this country in an early day. He was a fine artist and good scholar, as well as cooper; he afterward died on the Sauk side.

A trading establishment was started here by John Dougherty in 1833, he who afterward married a squaw, daughter or niece of the old Winnebago Chief, Whistling Thunder, and has left a number of descendants in this and La Fayette County. After Whitney & Co., a man by the name of Kingston came here and platted an additional tract of land.

In 1836, the " Wisconsin Shot Tower Company " was formed, and in 1837 a village was regularly platted and recorded by the following interested parties : R. McPherson, Daniel Whitney, De Garned Jones, J. R. Door, N. M. Standart, D. Griffith, S. Thompson, C. Townsend, J. S. Kimberly, George Coit, John Williams, F. C. Mills, G. P. Griffith, John Griffith, Jr., W. N. Griffith, F. L. Morgan, James Platte, W. H. Demming, Evan Griffith, John Griffith, Sr., and B. S. Webb, the last named being the agent of the company. The plat is a fine specimen of drawing, one to make a lot-holder's eyes water with delight.

In the fall of 1836, seven mechanics were employed by the company's agent, and sent to the dells of the Wisconsin River, where they got out a lot of timber, which was floated down for the purpose of building a warehouse. This was a very large structure for those times, being, when completed, 40x60 feet in area and five stories high, including the basements. The company also started a store here at that time.

Alvah Culver, who is now one of the last of the first settlers in the town, and who was engaged in the construction of the company warehouse, soon after its completion erected a tavern here, which was for many years the only hostelry in this part of the county.

In 1836, a post office was established here, and B. L. Webb appointed Postmaster, and Mr. Culver, Deputv. John Lindsay, now the second oldest settler in the county, was the first mailcarrier through the north part of the county.

The company eventually sold out to John Metcalf and Capt. J. B. Terry, who run the tower for awhile, after which it passed into the hands of Washburn & Woodman, who constructed a tramway. The last use that it had was by Knapp, the Mineral Point bank defaulter. The tower eventually went to ruin, and with the finishing-house was sold to Tracy Lockman, who built a barn and hog-pens out of them. The old Culver tavern is still standing, but the warehouse was moved to New Arena, some twenty years ago, by Mr. Jones.

There was at one time a fort standing near here, which has long since gone to ruin. It may be said that all that now remains of Old Helena and its once prosperous business, worth mentioning, is the name, which has been transferred to Helena Station, in the town of Arena, and which survives the wreck of years and is perpetuated to man.

Town Of Waldwick

It is supposed, and justly, too, that Waldwick was inhabited shortly after the discovery of the mines at Mineral Point, for the earliest known pioneer and settler in the town, James Fitch. who came here in 1833, found the relics of an old smelting furnace on the farm now owned and occupied by Joseph Griddle. The owners of this furnace, or the names of the men connected with it, Mr. Fitch could never ascertain, neither could he learn where, or from what mines, the mineral so smelted was obtained. These facts prove conclusively that the town was inhabited at least as early as 1830, or before the Black Hawk war.

James Fitch located a farm in 1833, in the extreme southwestern corner of the town, on Section 18. This farm is now owned and occupied by James Gordon. Here he erected a log cabin, the first, and for several years the sole one in the town. Until 1837. Mr. Fitch was the only white settler in the present limits of Waldwick. In the spring of 1837, the brothers William and Benjamin White, of Indiana, immigrated to Waldwick, and broke ground on the farm now owned and occupied by Richard James. At that time, the two White brothers built a cabin, and broke twenty acres of prairie land.

In 1837, Elijah Hayden also built a cabin on his claim on Section 33, the farm now occupied by James Jackson, but left the country in the same year, and absented himself for three years. In 1840, he returned and commenced to improve his farm. William Ball came to Waldwick in the spring of 1839, and located on Section 30, Township 5, Range 4. In the fall of the same year, Richard Gribble located on the same section ;ind made a small farm. Ezra and George Hall settled on what is now known as the Cox farm in 1841.

About the year 1836, a William Burr, of Dover, N. H., was sent to Wisconsin by a Free- Will Baptist Colonization Company, for the purpose of securing farming lands for a colony of that religious sect. He found his way to Waldwick, where, on beholding the boundless tract of prairie lands, he fell to contemplating the scenery, thinking, as his eye swept to the soutli and west, that it was the finest panorama he had ever witnessed. Such a wealth of verdure, fertility and beauty in its pristine glory, he had never before seen. Straight and lofty oaks, clothed with their autumnal tints, on the one hand, and the pleasant prairie, with its rank vegetation, on the other, presaged the march of civilization and future wealth. Here he entered 3,000 acres of the best lands, and returned to New Hampshire. His sanguine hopes were blighted, however, as but two persons of the contemplated colony immigrated here. These were Anson Hall and I. W. Sargent. For his own claim, Burr selected the farm now owned and occupied by John and Alexander McNeal. This farm has since been known as Burr's " Grove."

Between the years 1840 and 1845, a number of settlers located in Waldwick, among them being Michael Hughes, Daniel Dornan, James McKee, Thomas Reilly, John Little. J. Green, James Gordon, W. Graham, H. Noyes, Asa Munson, Hubbard Stephens, Chandler Heath, George A. Martin, John Parkinson, Alexander and Willi;im Babcock, William Bateraan. J. W. Dickinson, William Young, Dr. John Rowe, G. L. Matthews, and William Miller. Among the old settlers now living in the town, who came here before 1850, are, Thomas Reilly, Joseph Gribble, Thomas Gribble, John McKee, John Laverty, Daniel Dorman, Timothy FoUen, James Ryan, John Welsh, James Kitchen, James Beecher, and Mrs. William Young.

The education of the youth of Waldwick was not neglected in the pioneer era of the town, notwithstanding the many obstacles and inconveniences experienced in a newly and sparsely settled country, for so early as 1841, a school of twenty-five urchins was taught at the residence of Benjamin White, on the farm now occupied by James Kitchen. Charles Grizzle was the first instructor. He boarded with the scholars and received a salary of §11 per month. This school was continued but three months. During the summer of 1842, a log schoolhouse was built on Section 16, and, in the winter of 1842-43, Silas Pleese was engaged as teacher. There are now in the town six schoolhouses, with a capacity of 305 children. The number of children of school age in the town aggregates 357 - 197 males, and 160 females. The services of six teachers are required, who receive an average salary of $21 per month. During the year ending August 31, 1880, there has been received for school purposes 81,255.96. Amount paid out during the year for school purposes, $1,209.66.

Post Offices. - The first post oflice was established in the town December, 1849, on Sectio" 3, Town 4, Range 4. Ezra A. Hall was appointed Postmaster. In 1851, the gold craz^ attracted Mr. Hall to California, and the post office was then discontinued. In the interval, EM. Kirby carried the mail from Mineral Point. On May 2, 1872, a post office was established at the farm of J. C. McKee, on Section 34, and Mr. McKee was appointed Postmaster. The mail was received here from Mineral Point by carrier, who was paid a salary of $95. The following have acted as carriers successively : E. M. Kirby, Charles Holmes, John Laverty and John Spellman. This office was discontinued February 2, 1876.

Churches. - The first church erected in the town was St. Patrick's (Catholic) Church, which was built in 1868. This church is located on Section 36, and has the largest congregation in the town. Kev. James O'Keefe, of Mineral Point, is Pastor.

In the fall of 1866, the Methodist Episcopal Church, in the southern part of the town, was built, and dedicated February, 1867. The Primitive Methodist Church, located on Section 32, was erected in 1880.

Mills. - There are two Houring-mills. both located in the northern part of the town and run by water-power. The "Waldwick Mill" was built on Dodge's Branch of the Pecatonica River in 1871, by Griffith Jones, the present proprietor. The "Golden Meadow Mill " was built on the same stream, by Allen & Co., but is owned and managed by William Uren & Co.

Allen Lodge, No. 207, Good Templars, was organized in Waldwick, by Ph. Allen, Jr., of Mineral Point April 18, 1874. This society had thirty charter members, and has now a membership of thirty-eight. Their meetings are held at the Bethel School, in District No. 5.

Mining. - Prominent among the "diggings" of southern Waldwick was the "Dyer Diggings." Rich ore was discovered here by Ephraim White in 1845. The property at that time belonged to Amos Young and Uriah Gruschau, a Frenchman, who subsequently sold it to the Dyer Brothers for $400. For many years the Dyers worked these diggings with the most gratifying success. The '"Young Diggings" has been recognized as an important mine in this town. Mineral was discovered here by Pleasant Fields, in 1843. He continued to work the diggings " for several years, when William Young purchased the property and operated the mine up to a recent date. The principal minerals found here were lead ore and " Drybone. " In the southern part of the town, a company, known as the "Waldwick Mining Company," operated seve>al mines, which extended mostly into La Fayette County, with varying success. On the farm of William Pierce, in the southern part of the town, Section 14, there was an old log furnace, owned and operated by Mr. Fretwell, proprietor of the " Fretwell Diggings."

Official Toxvn Record. - The town of Waldwick originally contained eighty-four sections, and belonged to the Yellow Stone voting precinct. Voting was often held at Asa Bennett's, on Dodge's Branch. "The town was organized in 1849. The first town election being held April 3, 1849, at the house of J. W. Dickenson. The following oificers were chosen: E. A. Hall, Chairman; Francis McKenna and H. Moorman, Supervisors; Clerk, 1. N. Sargent; Treasurer, Samuel Zollinger; Assessor, Geo. L. Hall; Superintendent of Schools, J. W. Dickenson.

In 1861, by vote of the people, forty-two sections oif the eastern part of Waldwick was organized into a separate town and named Moscow. Waldwick has now forty-two sections, and is si-x miles wide by seven miles long.

1850 - E. A. Hall, Chairman, Francis McKinna, John Parkinson, Supervisors; I. N. Sargent, Clerk ; J. S. Wall, Assessor ; Samuel Zollinger, Treasurer ; James Bennett, Superintendent of Schools.

1861 - John James, Chairman ; John Green, John McKee, Supervisors ; Joseph Beecher, Clerk; P. A. Orton, Assessor; A. B. Ferris, Treasurer; Wm. Wallace, School Superintendent.