BRIEF HISTORY PICKAWAY COUNTY, \ TO ACCOMPA.XV '. WHEELER'S MAP. [Scou & Teeidaie's Powt-r Pres HISTORICAL SKETCH OF PICKAWAY COUNTY. Pickaway, [or Piqua,) is an Indian name. It is said to have been the name of a numerous family of the Shawnee tribe, who occupied the ^'■Pickaicay Plains''' at an early period. The meaning of the word is unknown to the Whites ; though it had un- doubtedly a significant meaning, as all other Indian names had. The name was given by law, to the County, though originally it had been confined to the Plains, in the southern part of the County. These Plains bore that name among the Indians, when the Whites first entered the Country, or knew any thing about it. ANTIQUITIES. This County is rather remarkable, for the monu- ments of antiquity it contains, or did contain, at the time of its first organization. Though of a less du- rable and imposing character, than those of Mexico, or the splendid relics of Central America, lately brought before the public by Mr. Stevens ; yet they are sufficient to prove a kindred origin with those. Many circumstances combine to render it highly probable, that the remote ancestors of the same peo- ple, who were found by the Spaniards in possession of Mexico and Gautamala, on their first discovery, erected these monuments — some for worship — some for defence — and many in memory of their distin- guished dead. They are obviously the works of a much more industrious, scientific, and civilized peo- ple than the Indians found in possession of the coun- try, when first visited by the Whites. Those works originally occupying a large portion of the present site of the town of Circleville, (and which though now demolished, gave name to the town,) have at- tracted most attention, from the regularity of their plan. Descriptions of these are minutely given in the "Ohio Gazetteer," and also in the first volume of the "Transactions of the American Antiquarian So- ciety." But there is another species of antique remains in the county, that has not generally been ranked as such These are the "Plains," familiarly known as the ^^Pickaivay Plains,''^ '•'■Walnut Plains,^^ and ^^Bates's Plains^ These fertile bodies of land, be- ing entirely devoid of tree or shrub, and clothed with a rank growth of wild grass, when first discov- ered by the white man, were obviously cleared for cultivation, by the same race of people, who erected the "Mounds," and other ancient monuments, so pro- fusely scattered through this county. The dry warm quality of tiie soil, its easy cultivation, and abundant productiveness, would recommend these Plains to every agricultural people, as first to be improved. From them was obtained the food necessary to sub- sist the great numbers, once congregated on the soil of this county; and who have left the other vestiges of their labor, as evidence of their settled habits and industry. All these prove them to be the work of a people, far advanced in the arts of civilized life, and accus- tomed to the pursuits of agriculture. Tliis race was probably driven from the country, to seek an abode in Mexico, by the hordes of northern Savages, who, like the Huns and Vandals of Europe, were con- stantly making inroads upon their detached settle- ments, which were probably confined mostly to the rich alluvial lands of the water courses. These Plains, Avhen cleared aiid thoroughly subdued, by years of cultivation, would, if abandoned, be the re- sort of game; and the Savage (as was his custom,) would burn them over every year, to aid him in see- ing that game. This would prevent the growth of timber on these Plains, for any period of time. INDIAN HISTORY. Very little more is known about the history of the Indian in this country, than of the race who preced- ed him. Tradition reports, that the Sbiwnee, who occupied the Scioto country, when first discovered by the Whites, was of southern origin. It says, that in some of the vindictive wars among the south- ern tribes, his tribe was overpowered and driven from their homes, and took to their canoes for safety. That they entered the Ohio, either from some of its southern tributaries, or from the Mississippi ; and could find no resting place, until they reached the mouth of the Scioto ; when fearing to make a land- ing, they clung to the willows hanging over the stream, until they could get an answer from the shore, whether an abiding place would be furnished them. The tribe occupying that part of the coun- try, seeing their destitute condition, had compassion on them ; invited them to land, and gave them an asylum. They afterwards became a pov.'erful tribe among the western Indians, and were foremost among . them when this region first became knoivn to the Whites. They appear to have been in advance of the other tribes in intelligence, enterprize and agri- cultural pursuits. The celebrated Mingo Chief, Logan, sought ref- uge with this tribe, when driven from his home, in Western Virginia. He had his abode at West-fall, then called Chil-i-coth-e, (the Indian name for town,) on the west bank of the Scioto river, about four miles 6 south of Circleville, when Lord Dunmore made his incursion into the country, in the year 1774. It was there he dehvered to the Messenger of Dunmore, that celebrated speech, immortalized in Jefferson's J\'otes on Virginia. Dunmore, with his troops, were then encamped at "Camp Charlotte,*' about seven miles east of Westfall, on Sippo creek, and on what is now called the Winship Farm. This Messenger was sent forward to the Indian town at Westfall, to invite the Chief to his camp, to negotiate terms of peace; and there he met that noble spirit who spake to hmi as man rarely speaks any where. He refused to go to Dunmore's camp with the other Chiefs, but sent that speech as his reply to the invitation. A treaty was concluded however, at camp Charlotte, •which terminated Dunmore's war; and his troops ad- vanced no further in^o the Indian country. There was then, a strong body of Indians settled about the Pickaway Plains, and on the Avest side of the Scioto directly opposite, in and about the said town of Chil- i-coth-e. EARLY SETTLEMENT. The settlement of the county by the Whites com- menced in the year 1796 or 7. The first cabins were erected on the "trace" leading from the cross- ing of the Ilockhocking, (now Lancaster,) by the Pickaway Plains, to Chillicothe. At that time, there ■was one some three or four miles below the Plains, and another at their eastern edge ; and very soon af- ter, a settlement was commenced at Westfall, on the Bite of the old Indian town. The land at this .point, had fallen into the hands of one Abel Westfall ; and lying on the "trace" leading from tiie settlementa jibout Pittsburg and Wheeling, to the Miami coun- try, he was induced to lay out a town there, and give it'his own name. The town was laid out while yet w.thin the limits cf Hamilton county, and its plat was recorded in Cincinnati. It was for some tmie, considered a rival of the present city of Chillicothe; but the location proving unhealthy in its early set- tlement, its growth was stinted ; and the town plat, which covered many acres of land, was mostly con- verted into corn fields, and is now inhabited only by some 8 or 10 families. The Ohio Canal passes through the tOAvn ; but there is nothing there to ar-> rest the attention of the traveller; nothing to certify him that he is on classic ground, the spot once famous as the home of Logan, "the friend of the white man," and the very theatre of the act, which has imparted to his name imperishable renown. The very deso- lation which now broods over the place, seems em- phatically "to mourn for Logan." As the Pickaway Plains, at that early period, were very much celebrated, the great thoroughfares through this part of the State, took them in their route. Hence that leading from the eastern settle- ments to the modern town of Chillicothe ; and that also to Cincinnati and the Miami settlements, passed through these Plains. Though before the lands^ on the east side of the river were offered for sale in 180J, many "squatters" had put up cabins along these thoroughfares ; yet the Plains were not deemed de- sirable" places for such fixtures. From their entire want of timber and living water, they were not en- tered at the land ofRoe, until nearly all the land sur- rounding them had been purchased. Settlements by Jonathan Renick, on Darby creek; by Abraham Shanton, on Deer creek, and by David Denny, on and about the "Walnut Plains," were commenced as early as 1800 ; and two or three years before the land in the Pickaway Plains was entered. Some scattering cabins were erected six or eight miles apart on the trace, leading from Chillicothe by way of Westfali, to Franklinton, as early as 1793. 8 Afcer the first public sales of Congress lands at Chillicothe, and the opening of the land office there, in May 1801, the county settled very rapidly; so much so, that in 1810, it contained a population of 7124. Thirty years after that, its population had only increased to 19,725. The greater portion of its lands were taken up before 1810, and its increase since 1820, has been slow and regular/'' Pickaway county was created by law on the 12th of January, 1810; and duly organized by the first choice of county ofncers on the first Monday of April following. One township of six miles square, No. 11, Range 20, (named Salt creek,) was taken from Fairfield county ; and the residue of the terri- tory was taken from Ross and Franklin counties. Beginning on the east bank of the Scioto river, its southern line extends 135 rniles due east, witli the southern lines of Pickaway and Salt creek townships ; thence due north six miles to the norlii east corner of the last named township ; thence due west six miles to the north west corner of said township ; thence due north with Range line 21, KJ miles to the north east corner of Madison township, being the N. F/. corner of Section 13, in township 10, Range 21, of Matthews's Survey; thcnc^ due west 10 miles to the Scioto river; thence crossing said river due west 12 miles ; thence due south 20 miles; thence due east 14 miles and 151 poles to the west bank of the Scioto river; and thence down said riv- er two miles to the place of beginning. It has up- wards of 4U0 square miles of territory, and averaged * By the census table printed at Washington under (lie di- rection of Congress, it appears that in 1810 the population of this County was 7,121-, in 1820 the sanje was 13,14-!. in 1030, it was 1.5,935, and m 1810, it was 19.725. The first ton years after its organization, the increase was 05 per cent ; the next ten years its increase was 21 per cent, and the last ten years its increase was 24 per cent. in IS-iO, about 40 persons to the square mile. Hav- ing very little or no waste land, and a very produc- tive soil, It can sustain in comfort^ a population of five times this number. — Then it would be less populous than Eng-land. Holland, Italy, and several other Eu- ropean States. Its soil is adapted to a variety of productions. A considerable portion is peculiarly adapted to the growth of wheat — and other large portions, includ- ing the dry prairies, plains, and bottoms, to the growth of corn. The wet prairies, and Avet clay lands, to the production of hay ; and the ^^Barrcns" (so called,) to pasturage. Hence large quantities of cattle, partially fattened on the pastures of the Bar- rens, during the summer, are brought in the begin- ning of winter, into the corn region, and there fed on corn till spring ; and then driven to Philadelphia, New York, and occasionally to Boston. Some of the best beef taken to those markets, is thus produced from this county. Immense quantities of pork are also annually fattened upon the produce of these corn lands. Forty thousand head of hogs were slaughtered at Circleville, during the season of 18- 43-4. About 5000 head of beeves were driven from the county in the spring of 1844, valued here at $30,00 each— making a total value of $150,000. Within the county, on the west side of the river, is a territory of about 2D0 square miles, containing a population of 8,376, averaging a fraction less than 30 to the square mile. While the territory on the east side of the river, within the county, embracing only 209 square miles, sustains a population of 11,- 349 — averaging almost 55 to the square mile. This disparity in the density of population of the territo- ry on the east and west sides of the river, arises principally from four causes : — 1st, the large surveys in vv'hich the land on the west side of the river was 10 originally located. This prevented persons of small means from seeking farms there : 2d. The difficul- ty of finding the real owner of these surveys, who generally resided in some of the Southern Atlantic? States, or Kentucky, and who frequently had no agent here, to sub-divide, show, or sell the lands: 3d. The frequent interference of different entries and surveys there with each other, which rendered the titles insecure. Though only a small portion of the lands were subject to this last difficulty, yet many persons were thereby deterred trom purchas- ing and settling upon them: 4th. The greater dis- position in the inhabitants there, to engross large tracts of land, instead of purchasing smaller tracts, and expending more upon their improvements. This last continues to be the great obstacle in the way of increase of population now, on those lands. To an observing traveller, passing directly through the county, from east to west, the contrast is very striking. While on the one side, he finds the lands well improved, with fields of moderate size, well fenced, with a good barn, and neat dwelling house to each adjacent farm, on the other he finds occa- sionally baronial mansions, "like Angel's visits — few and far between," with rarely a barn, and each field large enough for two or three good farms. Between these mansions he will find the old pioneer log dwel- lings, and the slovenly cultivation of the first set- tlers. One exhibits the th.rift of the older portions of Pennsylvania, the other that of the Southern plant- ers. The prices of the same quality of land on the east side, are generally about double those, on the west side. A part of this difference in the artificial appearance and cultivation of the country, upon the opposite sides of the river, results no doubt from the difibrent origin of the inhabtants. Those on the east side originated mostly from Pennsylvania ; while 11 those on the west oide had their origin generally in the more northern slave States. Habits brought •with the first emigrants, cannot be changed at once ; though time, and the operation of our laws will grad- ually modify them. Already, in several neighbor- hoods west of the river, the plan of smaller farms and better improvements has been commenced; and a few years of prosperous industry, will produce the neat farm cottage, and the well stored barn, with the productive fields of variegated crops and delicious fruits, which render the pursuits of agriculture so desirable. These are the blessings designed by a bountiful Benefactor, to compensate for the toils, exposures, and hardships incident to the pursuit of farming. Without these comforts, it would be the barren drudgery of the toil-worn slave. TOWNSHIPS. At the organization of the county, in 1810, there were but four townships on the west side of the riv- er, VIZ : Wayne, Deer creek, Darby, and Scioto ; the two former being taken from Ross, and the two lat- ter from Franklin county. On the east side of the river there were then five townships, viz : Pickaway and Washington, taken from Ross county ; Salt creek from Fairfield ; and Madison and Walnut from Franklin county. On the 5th day of June, 1810, Harrison township was erected, being taken from Madison and Walnut ; and the limits of Madison were then defined. Since then, there have been erected on the west side of the river, the townships of Jackson, Monroe, Perry, and Muhlenberg ; and on the east side, the township of Circleville — making in all now, fifteen townships. As no accurate surveys can be found, of the lines of these townships on the west side of the river, the number of square miles in each, cannot be accurate- 12 ]y ascertained, nor the average population of each to the square mile. There is considerable inequali- ty however, in the density of population of these townships. The square miles and average popula- tion of each of them is given therefore, only from estimate, and not from positive knowledge by survey. Pickaway tow^-ship embraces all the original surveyed township No. 10, in Range 21, (Worthing- ton's survey,) containing 36 square miles ; and also the fractional township No. 3, in Range 22, lying between the west line of Range 21, and the Scioto river, containing about 11 square miles — making a territory in all, of 47 square miles. It had, in 1630, 1,766 inhabitants, and in 1840, only 1,572, and then averaged 33^ inhabitants to the square mile. Its settlement commenced as early as 1797, and con- taining a large portion of as good land as any in the county, embracing the Pickaway Plains, it was soon well settled. The land for two or three miles in width next to the river, is adapted to the growth of corn. Here the fattening of hogs and cattle is the principal business. East of this, are the uplands, which produce fine crops of grass, wheat, and small grain ; but not generally very large quantities of corn ; though enough to fatten annually, a consider- able amount of pork. In this township are two grist mills, two saw mills, and a woollen factory. At Jef- ferson, on the Pickaway Plains, Avas erected at the first settlement of the county, a Tf'ind Mill ; the on- ly one, it is believed, ever erected in the State. Though it was used for "cracking corn" for a time, yet it was not very highly prized by its owner or his neighbors, and in a few years afterwards was suffer- ed to go down. There have been two towns, or vil- lages, laid out in this township; both of which have gone to ruin. JcJJhson was laid out as early as 1602 13 or 1803, by Henry Nevill, and for several years pros- pered considerably. The first Courts held in the county were held there ; and a strong effort was made by the proprietor and inhabitants of this town, to get the permanent location of the seat of justice there. Shortly after that failed, the town began to decline, and there are now only a few decayed build- ings left to mark its former site. In 1840, it was re- duced to 85 inhabitants, and is now still less. Liv- ingston, on the eafctern border of the "Plains," was laid out by Henry Dresbach, in 1806 or 1807. It, too, had its day of flourishing ; but there is now on- ly a single house on the town plat, and no vestige of a town remains. These towns at that early day, were the resort of the intemperate, idle, and disso- lute, and were a great annoyance to the sober farm- ers in their vicinity. Salt creek township, east of Pickaway, and in the south east corner of the county, is the original surveyed tov/nship No. 11, in Range 20, and con- tains 36 square miles. In 1830, its population was 1,656, and in 1840, it contained 1,814 inhabitants ; then averaging 50 to the square mile. It embraces a large portion of first rate land ; and along Salt creek, which runs through it, and gives name to the township, are some as good corn lands as any in the State. Large quantities of both corn and wheat are annually produced in this township for export. Ma- ny hogs and a considerable number of beeves are every year fattened here for market. Its surplus pro- ducts equal, if they do not exceed those of any town- ship in the county. Its .soil is well adapted to the growth of wheat, rye, oats, corn, clover seed, and grass. The surface undulates sutficiently to render the land dry enough for tillage, and make it a healthy region. The town of Tarlton, on Salt creek, near 14 the northern line of the township, is a handsome, flourishing village, and a place of considerable busi- ness. In 1840, it contained 437 inhabitants, and has increased considerably since. The Zaneaville and Maysville Turnpike passes through its main street, and is a great thoroughfare from Kentucky, and ihe south western part of this State eastward. The great agricultural resources of this township have so much engrossed the capital and attention of its inhabitants as to prevent the improvement of the manufacturing privileges tliey enjoy. Salt creek furnishes considerable water power, that must at some future day, be improved. Washington township, lying east of Circleville, and along the eastern hue of the county, is six miles long from north to south, by four miles broad ; and contains 24 square miles. It embraces the four east- ern tiers of sections, in the original surveyed town- ship No. 11, in Range 21, (VVorthington's survey.) In 1840, it contained 1,194 inhabitants ; averaging 49|- to the square mile. Its soil is generally well adapted to the production of grass, wheat, and oth- er small grain. It has but a small proportion of good corn land. Tlie farms are generally small and well cultivated. Considerable surplus pork is produced in this township annually, but no beef for export. Having a dry soil, and but slight undulation of the surface, a considerable part of the land is better ad- apted to grass than tillage. It has no water power or mills; but has extensive quarries of stone along the branches of Logan creek, which supply the town of Circleville with most of its building stone.' Circleville township, situated between Wash- ing township and the Scioto river, is six miles long from north to south, and varies from two to three 15 miles in width, according to the meanders of the river. It embraces two entire tiers of sections, on the west side of the original surveyed township No. 11, in range 21, w: s., and several fractional sec- tions in town. No. 4, and in range 22, w : s., lying between them and the river. It contains about 15 square miles, and in 1840 had a population of 2974, averaging 198 inhabitants to the square mile. It was erected from the territory of Wa^-hington town- ship in March 1833, and then had 2000 inhabitants. Next to the river, some of the land is subject to be overflowed in high freshets, and a small portion is wet prairie. A large proportion, however, is good corn land, and the balance produces good wheat and other small grain, and fine crops of grass. A con- siderable amount of beef and pork is fattened here each year, for export, and a considerable quantity of wheat, oats, corn, and hay, are produced annually in this township, for the Circleville market. There is a large flouring mill with four run of stones, and a small one for country work on and near the Canal, at Circleville ; besides three saw mills, and three woollen factories in the township. Circleville, the county seat, has now probably 3000 inhabitants, and about 400 dwelling houses. In 1830 it had 1136 inhabitants, and in 1840 it had 2330 inhabitants. It has 14 dry goods stores, two hard ware stores, two stove stores, two drug stores, three printing offices, two confectionaries, and a great number and variety of mechanic shops, all well supplied with articles in their respective lines. It has two wholesale groceries, and nine warehouses on the canal, at which, extensive business is done in the produce line. It has four pork establishments, at which can be slaughtered and packed, about 1500 head of hogs per day. There are, in this town, six 16 churches, one academy, one female seminary, a jail, eig-ht hotels, a book-store and bmdery. During the winter of 1843-4 there were slaughtered here, forty thousand hogs for export. An idea of the amount of busmess done here, may be formed from the fol- lowing statement, taken from the last Report of the Board of Public Works; Of the clearances made from this port in 1843, viz : — 25,(364 bbls. flour ; 9,666 bbls. pork ; 2,480,452 lbs. bacon ; 1,43(),248 lbs. lard; 98,868 lbs. butter; * * * * 20,403 lbs. tallow ; 34,204 lbs. woo! ; 47,738 bushels wheat ; 49,085 bushels corn ; and 3,229 bushels of clover seed. Much the largest portion of these articles, (except wool,) were the products of Pickaway coun- ty. The quantity of wheat, flour, and pork, shipped that year, was much less than usual, and the ship- ments of 1844 will, no doubt, greatly exceed those of any preceding year. There are, in Circleville, 12 practising attorneys, nine practising physicians, and seven clergymen. The principal denominations of Christians are Methodist, Umted Brethren, Pres- byterian, Episcopalian, and Lutheran ; all of whcm have churches, and regular officiating ministers. Walnut toavnship is bounded on the west by the Scioto river ; on the northwest bv Walnut creek ; on the east by Fairfield county ; on the south by Circleville and Washington townships ; and on the north by Madison township. On its east line, it is six miles long; on its south line, about seven and a half miles ; on its west line, about four miles ; and on its north line, about four and a half miles. It embraces four entire tiers of sections on the east side of the original surveyed township No. 9, in range 21, (Matthews' survey,) and all of the other two tiers of sections, in the same township ; except the two northwesterly sections, and a small part of 17 sections 5 and 8 adjoining-. It also embraces all of the fractional township No. 2, in range 22, lying- south of Walnut creek, and next the river.^t con- tains, in all, about 37 square miles, and had, in 1830 aj^opulation of 159J ; and in ]840, a population of 1798— then averaging 48^ to the square mile It has a large proportion of good corn land, and pro- duces abundant crops of wheat, oats, rye, and grass There are more distilleries of whisk) in this town- ship than m all the rest of the county ; and it is to be regretted that the inhabitants have not seen it more for their interest, to convert their large surplus of corn and rye into pork and beef, than into this "liquid poison." Several have begun to see thi^- and are making considerable beef and pork. This township has natural advantages in soil, water-power and healthiness, that, rightly improved, would render It one of the most populous and wealthy in the county. It has now two or three grisl mills, and three or four saw mills, located on Walnut creek and Turkey run, and several distilleries. Its water- power may, at some future day, furnish employment to hundreds of persons, engaged in the various' man- ujactures of cotton, wool, iron, and wood. Madisox tow.xship, situated in the northeastern corner of the county, is six miles long, east and west by four miles broad. It contains 24 square miles! and had, m 1830, nine hundred and seventy-six in- habitants, and in 1840, eight hundred and fifty in- habitants—averaging 35i to the square mile. It embraces all the original surveyed township No 10 in range 21, except the two tiers of sections on'the' northern line of the original township; which are in t ranklm county. It contains a large body of good land, and produces considerable quantities of corn wheat, oats, and grass. A large amount of pork is 38 fattened annually in this township for market, and a considerahle surplus of wheat is also raised here. Walnut creek, passing through the tov/nship from north to south, furnishes, on each side of it, some as good corn land as any in the county, and hydrau- lic power which must, at some day not distant, be improved for manufacturing purposes. Nearly all the land in this township v/ill admit of tillage; and such parts as are not adapted to produce abundant crops of corn, will yield fine wheat. Harrison tow>'ship lies directly west of Mad- ison and Walnut, and has the Scioto for its western boundary, and Walnut creek for its southern and part of its eastern boundary. It varies from two to upwards of four miles in width from east to west, and is upwards of eight miles long. It contains about 26 square miles, and had. in 1830, a popula- tion of 773, and in 1840, a population of 1149 — then averaging nearly 4G persons to the square mile. — There is more inequality in the soil of this township, than in any other on this side of the river. While it contains a large portion of as good land as can be found in the State, it has a considerable portion too wet and unproductive for tillage. By ditching these wet lands and "barrens," as they are called, some of them might be made good meadow. Some of them arc now used for pasturage, and others lie waste. The principal product of this township is corn, which is used for fattening large quantities of beef and pork. On the eastern side of the town- ship are a few wheat farms, which are productive. There are, in the township, two grist mills and one saw mill. One of the grist mills is a large merchant mill, on the canal, near Walnut creek ; the other ia on the Scioto, with a saw mill attached. The two villages of Bloomfield and MiUporty are in this town- 19 ship; the first lying on the main road from Circle- villa to Columbus, was laid out by David Denny, aa early as 1802 or '3, and has improved very much within the last few years — containing, now, forty or fifty dwelling houses, and wearing a thrifty aspect. In 1840 it had a population of 182, and in 1830, of 150 ; it has two taverns, one store, and several me- chanic shops. Millport, on the east side of the Ohio canal, was laid out by Richard Stage, in 183 . It wa8 lo- cated within sight of Bloomfield, on the canal, a short distance above where the same crosses Walnut creek. In 1840 it had 98 inhabitants, and has not increased materially since that time. Though not now in a thriving condition, its favorable location for business will probably hereafter revive it, and make it a considerable village. Scioto township, directly west of Harrison, on the west side of the Scioto, is about seven miles long from north to south, and from four to six broad from east to west. It is estimated to contain about 37 square miles, and in 1830, had 462 inhabitants — and in 1840, nine hundred and four. It is yet but partially cleared and thinly settled ; averaging about 25 persons to the square mile. Having no Plain or Prairie land, and a heavy growth of timber, and owned mostly in large tracts by non-residents, its settlement has been tardy. Within the last ten years, more of the lands have been purchased by actual settlers than formerly. Next the river, it has some good corn lands that have been cultiva<^ed many years. Westof these, the soil is well adapted to the growth of wheat and other small grain. A considerable surplus of pork and wheat is produced annually in this township. Except a few farms near 20 the river, the lands in cultivation are generally divi- ded into farms of moderate size, and in a few years will probably be as well improved as the farms in the eastern part of the county. There are two or three saw mills in this township, but no other mills, and very little water power. Its inhabitants are mostly emigrants from Western Pennsylvania and Virginia. Darby township, situated in the northwestern corner of the county, is about seven miles square; excepting a small corner taken diagonally out of the southeast corner of the township. It is estimated to contain about 44 square miles, and in 1830 its population was 827, and in 1840 it had increased to 1050 —averaging then, 24 persons to the square mile. Most of its inhabitants have originated from Vir- ginia. Not more than one half of its land is im- proved yet, including what is fenced up for pastures. The traveler here may pass through large tracts in their native wildness, sometimes for three or four miles, without finding a cultivated field or single cabin to cheer him. The owner is probably a non- resident, who expects one day to realize a fortune from the rise of lands cultivated in its neighborhood. If he would divide it into suitable tracts for farming and sell every alternate lot, his wishes would be much sooner gratified. On each side of Darby creek, running from north to south through this township, there is some good land for corn, wheat, and small grain ; but a large portion of the land ly- ing back from the creek is too flat and wet for Ullage. There is a considerable portion of land in this town- ship called "barrens," which seems designed solely for grazing and meadow. As yet but a small sur- plus of any thing but cattle and hogs has been pro- duced here, though some small quantities of pork 21 £re fattened on the lands along Darby and Deer creek, for market. The raising of stock cattle and stock hogs is, however, the surest business for the inhabitants of this township. of this township, is a small Post town, having, in 1840, only 63 inhabitants. It is laid out on the road leading from Columbus to Washington, but is not thriving. A part of the village of "Harrisburgh," on Darby creek on the northern line of the county, is also within this township. Monroe toavnship, lies directly south of Darby, and is estimated to contain about the same number of square miles. In 1830 it contained 7G5 inhabit- ants, and in 1840 they had increased to 1346 — ma- king, then, an average of about thirty to the square mile. Its territory, so far as cultivated, is divided mostly into farms of moderate size, and having Deer creek running through its southern border, and Bus- kirk's run nearly through. its centre, it has a consid- erable proportion of good land. A moderate surplus of pork and wheat is raised in this township, and some beef Though a part of the soil is v/ell adapt- ed to the production of corn and wheat, yet probably nearly one half is much better adapted to grass. A mile or two off the water courses, the land becomes generally too flat and wet for raising crops of grain. There is one grist mill and iwo saw mills in this township, and several mill sites furnished by Deer creek. MuHLENBURGH is a Small, ill-shaped township, lying east of Monroe, and on both sides of Darby creek. It is estimated to contain about twenty-three square miles. In 1840 it had a population of 653, 22 and then averaged about 28 to the square mile. It has, on the tax list, 13,669 acres of land, valued at $83,714, and other taxable property to the amount of $25,190. Lying on both sides of Darby creek, it contains a large proportion of excellent corn land. The amount of pork and beef annually fattened in this township for export, is probably larger, in pro- portion to the territory, than in any other township in the county. The land is nearly all tillable, and most of it well cultivated. It is held by a few ov/n- ers, generally in large farms, and very little surplus wheat or other small grain is produced on its soil. Corn and grass are the principal crops: — such of the land as will not produce good corn is devoted to pasturage and meadow. A considerable portion of the land would, no doubt, produce good wheat and other small grain ; but the farmers are not inclined to engage in raising those crops. In this township there are one or two grist mills, two or three saw mills, and one or two small Avoollen factories. Not much business is done, however, at either of them. Considerable water power is furnished here by Dar- by creek, which will hereafter be more extensively improved. Darbyville, situated in the centre of this town- ship, is a pleasant thriving village. It is a Post town, lying on the road from Circleville to London, and was laid out in 1826 — a little west of Darby creek, on an elevated piece of ground. In 1840 it had 164 inhabitants, and has probably 40 or 50 dwelling houses. It has two or three taverns, one or two stores, and several mechanic shops. Jackson TOWi\sHip, lying east of Muhlenburgh and Monroe, extends to the Scioto, and is estimated to contain about 40 square miles. In 1830 it had a 23 population of 1048, and in 1840, of 993— then aver- aging about 25 persons to the square mile. A por- tion of its territory was incorporated into Muhlen— burgh township, between the years 1830 and 1840, which accounts for its apparent diminution of popu- lation within that period. In 1844 it had, on the tax list, 25,722 acres of land, valued at $189,550.— Having the Scioto for its eastern boundary, and Darby creek running diagonally from northwest to ' southeast through its centre, it embraces a largo proportion of as good land for corn as can be found in the State. Large quantities of pork and beef are annually fattened here for export, and a considerable amount of surplus wheat, is also produced on the uplands. The most fertile lands are held in large farms by a few owners, and devoted almost entirely to the growth of corn. Those less fertile, and better adapted to the production of small grain and grass, are held, generally, in smaller tracts — except a few devoted exclusively to pasturage. The township cannot have a dense population while such large bodies of land are held by a few owners. If divi- ded into farms of moderate size, and each farm occu- pied by its owner, it would soon become one of the most populous and wealthy townships in the county. It has one grist mill and one saw mill on Darby creek, which do considerable business, and none of the other water power Jurnished by the creek is improved. Wayne toav.nship, lying immediately south of Jackson, is estimated to be nearly seven miles long from north to south, an 1 fi-ora three to six broad from east to west, according to the meanders of the river, and is supposed to contain about 26 square miles of territory. It has 16,382 acres of land on the tax duplicate, valued at $112,720, and in 1830 it had 24: [}59 inhabitants, and in 1840, only 779. This dimi- nution ruust result from the depopulation of the vil- lages of Montgomery and Westtall, within that period. The average population to the square mile is now estimated to be about thirty. Next to the river, and on each side of Yellow-bud creek, which runs across the southwest corner of this township, there is a considerable body of good corn lands; but a large portion of the soil is better adapted to the production of wheat and other small grain and grass, tlian corn. A considerable quantity of surplus pork and a small amount of beef, is annually fattened here for export. A moderate quantity of wheat is also raised here for sale every year. A considera- ble portion of the land here, is yet held in large tracts by a few owners, which greatly retards the increase of population. Though some portion is only fitted for pasturage, yet if divided into farms of moderate size, most of tiie land would be found well adapted to the growth of wheat and other small grain, where a luxuriant crop of corn could not be raised. In this township there is one large flouring mill next the canal, and one saw mill, both supplied with water from Darby creek; and there is no other machinery propelled by water in the township. It lias very little water power that can be used advan- tageously. Tiie noted town of Westfall is situated on a bluff bank on the Scioto, and Ohio canal, about equi-distant from the north and south lines of this township, and about five miles below Circleville. Its desolate appearance has been already noticed. Montgomery, a mile further south, though laid out rather recently, is sharing the same fate with Westfill. A few years will not leave the vestige of a town to either of them, though both are located on the Ohio canal, pnd on the main road leading from Circleville to Ciiiliicothe on that side of the river. 5>5 Deer Creek tow>'ship, lying direcUy west of Wayne, is estimated to be nearly seven miles long", by nearly six broad, and to contain about thirty-eight square miles. In 1830 it had, on the tax duplicate, about 22,000 acres of land, and in 1844 it had 22,- 646 acres, valued at $n5,386. In 1830 it had 1193 inhabitants, and in 1840 it had 1374 ; averaging" then, about 36 to the square mile. Having Deer creek, from which its name is derived, running from north to south through its centre, it contains a large portion of first rate corn land. The uplands pro- duce good wheat and other small grain. A small portion of the land is better adapted to pasturage than tillage. Large quantities of pork, and a con- siderable number of beef cattle, are annually fat- tened in this township for export. A moderate sur- plus of wheat and other small grain is also raised here, for market. The lands are generally divided into farms of moderate size, and tolerably well cul- tivated. There are here, as in all other townships on this side of the river, a considerable portion of land not yet fenced or improved. A large part of these unimproved lands belongs to persons not resi- ding in the county. There are two grist mills and one saw mill in this tov/nship, on Deer creek, and sufficient water power to propel several more, not improved. WiLLiAMSPORT, lying on the turnpike road lead- ing to Cincinnati from Circleville, and on the east bank of Deer creek, is a Post town in this township, and in 1830 had 74 inhabitants; which in 1840 had increased to 159 inhabitants. It has two taverns, one store, one grist mill, and several mechanic shops; and has a pleasant site. It is probable that its min- eral spring will some day attract considerable com- pany here, though now neglected. Since 1840 it has improved and increased considerably. 2G Perry township, lying due west of Deer creek, and in the southwest corner of the county, is nearly seven miles long from north to south, by more than five broad ; containing, as estimated, about 38 square miles. In 1830 it liad, on the tax list, 23,5(39 acres of land, and in 1840 it had 22,542 acres, valued at $90,856. Its population, in 1830, was 1,039, and in 1840, was 1,277 — then averaging, as is estimated, about 33^ to the square mile. It has a small pro- portion of good corn land, but produces pasturage and hay in great abundance. Its surplus products are pork, in moderate quantities ; beef, in smaller quantities ; some wheat, and a large number of cattle, horses, and hogs. A greater portion of the land be- ing better adapted to pasturage and meadow than tillage, the raising of cattle, horses, and hogs, is generally found more profitable there, than to fatten pork or beef, or raise much wheat. Near the north- ern line of the township there are, on Deer creek, one or two grist mills and a saw mill, M'hich occupy nearly all the water power in the township. The surface of this township is too level to furnisli much water power, or arable land, but seems especially designed for the production of grass. New Holland, in this township, is a thriving village, ]ying on the turnpike leading from Circle- ville to Cincinnati, and 16 miles west of Circle ville. In 1840 it had 161 inhabitants, and has been increas- ing since. It has a very pleasant, healthy location, and contains two taverns, two stores, a post ofiicc, a woollen factory propelled by horse power, and sev- eral mechanic shops. It has an industrious,- tempe- rate, and intelligent population, which will make any town thrifty, where sickness does not prevent. 27 s 1^ Scioto Darby Monro Muhle Jackst Wayn Dearc Perry r^ \ ?3 5' o . nS' B PrP"- " fi ", c C I n , "^ I orq ^ ' rr o • = . O ' 1 f- (^ cc ~:} ^ CI S 05 t3 ^s --1 ttJ f"^ OS 5 C? kfi- • CTl ^ CTj C3 ^i: OO O CO • Or-) ts 1 3 tsoa^^crioaoto -q *- 'X) W 03 en o #■ M CD W >0 M) CS JsS (■S pCriO0iC0O>r-0' b3 b3 V- hS H- ^S »3 l^£ 6e<^CiO»w~jcribs ti; CjrCntO-lCTl — OT"it. ^s> o ^3 >-3 '-3 CO ►- cr> C Ci ^_ 1 t- CO o - o^ 1 O Cn t-S to M C-- O Oi o o '-^■w--j>-^owg ^^ CTi !c^2^oa!H^?)rsts J^^CT>-3Cr>W>{l-0S ~ ^ 1 o '^ CO OS -- ^r^ .^" P P a ? « ^2- 10 q ^^ CTii en oa ^ CO ^ ts CO t^ OS ^tcoi* cco. ^,oa OS en —' • o cTi cnl_cr — CO -O ^ •-' CO tTJ ^OS>f'i-'*'CnOS -~3 o Or cc tr: t:; C,Oo ? .-1 MHO- CCmJM bJt-, — -_ oi tf^ #- J^ '^,1'^ J-^ ' £ " "lolo O'"o"cn'^"cn "3 »ti en hs ^ p*^ ^ OTj s» -J CO c. ~3 tf^ ^ 0^1 — rf^C0Cni--i--i4-cn:*:!u ^ootT'C^os^cnuDiqp;, Or i C~. ^ ^C Ox -a I Note. — By the foregoing table it will be seen that 493 square miles are given to (he county, and an average of 40 inhabitants to the square mile. Implicit reliance may be put in the statement so far as the townships cast of the Scioio are concerned, as the original surveys there furnish a sure guide. There being no actual surveys to be found of the townships west of the river, the amount of territory there, is estim-ated partly by comparison of the relative size of each, with those on the east side, and more especially by the number of acres returned in each to the Auditor's Oilice for taxation. As all 28 — I -• m o: ; = g- c o "-< c •^ Cl w 03 ^ ^ Or r? -1 O' Oi -4 Oi CO •O (T) O ^ CO »S iTi >— CO — CO 1-. H_ CS )-0 -J >— O; C/S ^ O ^ ^1 C, CO O ^ O CO o o oo| 0C03 0= OC ^ O te I-* -j Ci CJ I CO Vj ' cr; ^1 CO O W i-« »■£ ,— 1 — CO »■& — ) OS -J 'o :^ >— wi t-S O' wtCO O I CO , „ _ - ^1 '^ CO CO 4^ L— , V^i 004_^OOS^^ g -w «i- H- O O *- Or «0 ! H' 05 On OS tS O ►- 03 CrI . O'," ^ ~*J-^ CO OS cr- o^l ^ -- •- o IS o ~a CO o os: j-i j^ »- ko 1— H-. h- H-| 00 "oo'o;V."-^)"K:lo"btlo OS — ' ►— o C-. ^Q -^} OJ <-ci OS ^O^^4-C^C0i4-' i^ci-^T'^ OS OS en OS OS Cjx o ■^ CO .^ O -J ^ 4- t—Ori^JOj^ OS >-• en CO »s CO 4^ >-' CO >f- OS O O to O CO ?i OS OS ►- ^ OS »c B 3 >r)3 C^ ^^.-.tOr-CO — CO > < CC « oi 1— = E O = CTi O ^ en 'i i^ '.r; jr O S 3 O -''C04^0500>P^C:i YX Ot gi O 0-S 65. OS o Or. OOCOOi O O o 3 n, o p2 2. o E to ^ re P o o w 03 ^ .^ z. 1^: "rf^ "Ot ' OS ~C0 ~lc "o C-; .O I— 00 Ol -) >i^ 02 CO (S -> ^ -^ -J "-t ^ >^ ;^ Sr; J^ w ^ ^ O C^ OS O 1— ^ OS ~:} OS c^ Oiolo s 1— J-. »_ ^ .->, ^3 H_ • 5 ST — OS +- U3 ~J Cn ^ CO CTi O 00 OS -O OS OS CO --} Ct C^ 'O Ci - 03 r- ;C' W H rt> ^^ s a Q a 5 s 3 ^ T. 1 •5 "r^ ■^ ?■ S a ^ ^ a *- ?t ft. ,^ ^, S ^ a ri. a : 3. tlie lands in tlic county aro subject to taxation except some small vacant parcels on the west side of the river, and some that may have escaped the vigilance of the Assessor, and Auditor, this return furnishes a very accurate basis oji which to found estimates of the square miles in each township there. 29 It will be noticed that the whole number exceeds that given in the Ohio Gazeteer, by 23 square miles. As by a late care- ful survey of the county lines they have been found somethmg longer than was supposed, it is highly probable that ihe for- mer amount given was too low, and that here given is much Higher the actual amount. , , , The average value of the land and builduigs, as by the late valuation, it will be seen, in the entire county, is gG 16 per acre ; while that portion on the east side of the river has an average valuation of ^7 75 per acre 5 that on the west side averages g-i 96 per acre, only. * Genoa, in Scioto township, has been lately laid out, but no lots are sold, nor are any buildings erected in said town ; nor is it very probable that any will be, soon. IXoTE.— As there were, in 1843, no stores in Pickaway, Washington, Madison, Scioto, Darby, Monroe, Jackson, or Wayne townships, the entries made to those townships under the head of Blerchants' Capital must be wholly for money loaned at interest in those townships. The much larger pro- portion of horses and cattle on the west than on the east side of the river, and so in some particular townships, shows, to some extent, the pursuits of the inhabitants. Thus, in Jack- son and Muhlenburgh townships, the proportion of cattle to the whole number of acres of land and inhabitants in each, is much greater than in Washington and Scioto. This indi- cates that the cattle business is the principal occupation of the people of the former, and not of the latter townships.-— The real value of merchants' capital and town lots m the countv. greatly exceeds the amount here given. They are l)robably nearly as far from the real value, as 13 the valuation of the lands given in the other table. kf' BD -2.3 'P^. or . .-' °^ : o o •. '^c ^^^ v^X^ ■r(N|^^^ "-. ^^-^^^ '<*'S r!.•*' DOBBS BROS MIARY BINDINO r. AUGUSTINE; .^M^<^^ ^V .^^V^ FLA. 32084 oK ^"^^. ^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS g 014 750 584 P