HISTORY OP MIAMI COUNTY INDIANA. FROM THE EARLIEST TIME TO THE PRESENT, WITH BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, NOTES, ETC., TOGETHER WITH AN EXTENDED HISTORY OF THE NORTHWEST, THE INDIANA TER- RITORY, AND THE STATE OF INDIANA. XLLTTSmaj^TEXD. CHICAGO: Brant & Fuli.kr. 1887. 3 -=^ ^.^:^ '' HALL & ODONALD, HUso "h PREFACE. AFTER several months of almost uninterrupted labor, the History of Miami County is completed. In issuing it to our patrons we do not claim for it perfection : but that it contains that reasonable degree of accuracy which only could be expected of us, is coniidently asserted. The difficulties that surround such an undertaking can scarcely be real- ized by one who has never engaged in work of the kind. To reconcile the doubtful and often conflicting statements that are so frequently made liy those who would seem to be best informed, is a task both per- plexing and tedious. Yet we believe that we have been able to present a history of the county that is as nearly complete as reason can demand, and the book exceeds our promises in almost every particular. We have endeavored to set forth the facts in as concise and unostentatious lan- guage as possible, believing it is for the facts and not for rhetorical display that the book is desired. The mechanical execution and gen- eral appearance of the volume will recommend it, even to the fastidi- ous. The arrangement of the matter is such as to render an index almost superfluous, as the subject xander consideration is at the top of every right-hand page. For further details the italic subdivisions will enable the reader to refer with readiness to any subject. In the spelling of proper names there is such a wide difference, even among members of the same family, and is a matter of so arbitrary a nature that our only guide was each man's desire. Every clue that gavejH'om- ise of important facts connected with the county's history has been in- vestigated by those engaged in the work. We believe the volume will be favorably received and highly appreciated by those for whom it was jirepared. Our thanks are due to those who have rendered us assistance, and to our patrons. THE PUBLISHEES. Chicago, III., March, 1887. ./«".. :.'.;,. Enumeration of Scholars 219 Family Worship 252 Free School System, The 215 Funds, Management of the 217 Female Prison and Reformatory 241 Houseof Pvefuge, The 243 Insane Hospital, The 238 Northern Indiana Normal School 229 Origin of School Funds 221 Purdue University 224 School Statistics 218 State University. The 222 State Normal School 228 State Prison, South] 239 State Prison, North 240 Total School Funds 220 CONTENTS. PART II.-HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. CHAPTER I. PAGE. OY— General Features— Soil and Boun- f dary— Lime— The Pillared Rocks 247 CHAPTER II. DIAN History- Early Tribes — The Miamis— Treaties— The Pottawattomies— Indian Vil- lages—Miami Chiefs— Indian Murders — FMUces Slocum— Battle of the Mississinewa 250 CHAPTER III. ovNTY Orqamzation— Acts of the Legisla- ture — Proceedings of the County Board — Creation of Townships — Public Buildings — County Finances — Wabash & Erie Canal — Railroads — Gravel Roads — Medical and Ag- ricultural Societies— Elections— County Offi- cers, etc 272 CHAPTER IV. Military History— Early Militia— Mexican "War— Opening of the Rebellion— Call to < Arms — First Troops for the Front... Miami County Regiments in Detail— Roll of Honor —Drafts— Bounty and Relief, etc 299 CHAPTER V. Bench and Bar— Early Courts— First Judge*— Destruction of Records — Early Cases — Early Attorneys — Courts under the New Constitu- tion — Official Seal — Criminal Trials — Later Judges and Attorneys— Probate and Com- mon Pleas Courts— Roll of Attorneys 328 CHAPTER VI. Schools— Early Educational Advantages — First Schools— Teachers and Their Methods — Schools of Peru— The Townships in Detail — County Seminary — The Township Funds — Normals and Institutes, etc M8 CHAPTER VII. Peru — The Original Owners— Laying out of the Town— Miamlsport — Sale of Lots— Early Business— Navigation of the Wabash— The Canal — Early Families — Incorporation — Additions — Fire and Water Departments — Newspapers — Churches — Secret Societies — Literary Societies and Libraries — Banks — Manufacturing Enterprises — Biographical .Sketches 362 PAGE. Allen Township History 488 Allen Township Biographies 505 Butler Township History 535 Butler Township Biographies 543 Clay Township History 559 Clay Township Biographies 563 Deer Creek Township History 572 Deer Creek Township Biographies 579 Erie Township History 691 Erie Township Biographies S96 Harrison Township History 602 Harrison Township Biographies 612 Jackson Township History , 617 Jackson Township Biographies 637 Jefferson Township History 659 Jefferson Township Biographies 682 Perry Township History.. 712 Perry Township Biographies 726 Peru Township History 362 Peru Township Biographies 392 Pipe Creek Township History 736 Pipe Creek Township Biographies 753 Richland Township History 762 Richland Township Biographies 772 Union Township History 781 Union Township Biographies 792 Washington Township History 802 Washington Township Biographies 807 ILLUSTRATIONS. Bloomfield. E. M 405 Brown, James M 351 Clendenning, E. B 51S Coe, A. D 657 Cox. J. T 475 Crowell, Geo. A 369 Dukes, A. N 316 Farrar, John L 649 Farrar, Josiah 423 Fisher, Joseph 603 Graft, Benjamin 675 Graham, Jehn A 279 Helm, John H 297 HoUenshade, James 639 Larimer, J. H 567 Lockwood, W. W 441 McDowell, H. P 621 Miller, W. B 460 Runyan, R. B 586 Shirk. E. H - ^»» 261 Shirk, H. J 387 Waite, A. C 531 Walker, Lyman 333 Wilson, J. S 495 HISTORY OF INDIANA. FOEMER OCCUPANTS. PEEHISTOEIC RACES. Scientists have ascribed to the Mound Builders varied origins and though their divergence of opinion may for a time seem incom- patible with a thorough investigation of the subject, and tend to a confusion of ideas, no doubt whatever can exist as to the compar- ative accuracy of conclusions arrived at by some of them. Like the vexed question of the Pillar Towers of Ireland, it lias caused much speculation, and elicited the opinions of so many learned antiquarians, ethnologists and travelers, that it will not be found beyond the range of possibility to make deductions that may suffice to solve the problem who were the prehistoric settlers of America. To achieve this it will not be necessary to go beyond the period over which Scripture history extends, or to indulge in those airy flights of imagination so sadly identified with occasional writers of even the Christian school, and all the accepted literary exponents of modern paganism. That this continent is co-existent witli the world of the ancients cannot be questioned. Every investigation, instituted under the auspices of modern civilization, confirms the fact and leaves no channel open through which the skeptic can escape the thorough refutation of his opinions. China, with its numerous living testi- monials of antiquity, with its ancient, though limited literature and its' Babelish superstitions, claims a continuous history from antediluvian times; but although its continuity may be denied with every just reason, there is nothing to prevent the transmission of a hieroglyphic record of its history prior to 1656 atmo mundi, since many traces of its early settlement survived the Deluge, and became sacred objects of the first historical epoch. This very sur vival of a record, such as that of which the Chinese boast, is not at variance with the designs of a God who made and ruled the universe; but that an antediluvian people inhabited this continent, 18 HISTOKV OK INDIANA. will not be claimed; because it is not probable, though it may be possible, that a settlement in a land which may be considered a portion of the Asiatic continent, was effected by the immediate followers of the first progenitors of the human race. . Therefore, on entering the study of the ancient people who raised these tumu- lus monuments over large tracts of the country, it will be just sufficient to wander back to that time when the flood-gates of hearen were swung open to hurl destruction on a wicked world; and in doing so the inquiry must be based on legendary, or rather upon many circumstantial evidences; for, so far as written narra- tive extends, there is nothing to show that a movement of people too far east resulted in a Western settlement. THE FIRST IMMIGRATION. The first and most probable sources in which the origin of the Builders must be sought, are those countries lying along the east- ern coast of Asia, which doubtless at that time stretched far beyond its present limits, and presented a continuous shore from Lopatka to Point Cambodia, holding a population comparatively civilized, and all professing some elementary form of the Boodhism of later days. Those peoples, like the Chinese of the present, were bound to live at home, and probably observed that law until after the con- fusion of languages and the dispersion of the builders of Babel in 1757, A. M. ; but subsequently, within the following century, the old Mongolians, like the new, crossed the great ocean in tiie very paths taken by the present representatives of the race, arrived on the same shores, which now extend a very questionable hospitality to them, and entered at once upon the colonization of the country south and east, while the Caucasian race engaged in a similar move- ment of exploration and colonization over what may be justly termed the western extension of Asia, and both peoples growing stalwart under the change, attained a moral and physical eminence to which they never could lay claim under the tropical sun which shed its beams upon the cradle of the human race. That mysterious people who, like the Brahmins of to-day, wor- shiped some transitory deity, and in after years, evidently embraced the idealization of Boodhism, as preached in Mongolia early in the 35th century of the world, together with acquiring the learning of the Confucian and Pythagorean schools of the same period, spread all over the land, and in their numerous settlements erected these ratliB, or mounds, and sacrificial altars whereon they received their HISTOUY OF INDIANA. Id periodical visiting gods, surrendered their bodies to natural absorp- tion or annihilation, and watched tor the return of some transmi- grated soul, the while adoring the universe, which with all beings they believed would be eternally existent. Thej possessed religious orders corresponding in external show at least with the Essenes or Theraputse of the pre-Christian and Christian epochs, and to the reformed Theraputie or monks of the present. Every memento of their coming and their stay which has descended to us is an evi- dence of their civilized condition. The free copper found within the tumuli; the open veins of the Superior and Iron Mountain copper-mines, with all ihemodiis opera)idi of ancient mining, such as ladders, levers, chisels, and hammer-heads, discovered by the French explorers of the Northwest and the Mississippi, are conclu- sive proofs that those prehistoric people were highly civilized, and that many flourishing colonies were spread throughout the Missis- sippi valley, while yet the mammoth, the mastodon, and a hundred other animals, now only known by their gigantic fossil remains, guarded the eastern shore of the continent as it were against sup- posed invasions of the Tower Builders who went west from Babel; while yet the beautiful isles of the Antilles formed an integral portion of this continent, long years before the European Northmau dreamed of setting forth to the discovery of Greenland and the northern isles, and certainly at a time when all that portion of America north of latitude 45° was an ice-incumbered waste. Within the last few years great advances have been made toward the discovery of antiquities whether pertaining to remains of organic or inorganic nature. Together with many small, but telling relics of the early inhabitants of the country, the fossils of pre- historic animals have been unearthed from end to end of the land, and in districts, too, long pronounced by geologists of some repute to be without even a vestige of vertebrate fossils. Among the collected souvenirs of an age about which so very little is known, are twenty-five vertebrfe averaging thirteen inches in diameter, and three vertebraj ossified together measure nine cubical feet; a thigh-bone five feet long by twenty-eight, by twelve inches in diameter, and the shaft fourteen by eight inches thick, the entire lot weighing 600 lbs. These fossils are presumed to belong to the cretaceous period, when the Dinosaur roamed over the country from East to West, desolating the villages of the people. This animal is said to have been sixty feet long, and when feeding in cypress and palm forests, to extend himself eighty-five feet, so that he maj^ '20 HiSTORV OK INDIANA. devour the budding tops of those great trees. Other efforts in this direction may lead to great results, and culminate probably in the discovery of a tablet engraven by some learned Mound Builder, describing in the ancient hieroglyphics of China all these men and beasts whose history excites so much speculation. The identity of the Mound Builders with the Mongolians might lead us to hope for 6uch a consummation; nor is it be^-ond the range of probability, particularly in this practical age, to find the future labors of some industrious antiquarian requited by the upheaval of a tablet, written in the Tartar characters of 1700 years ago, bearing on a subject which can now be treated only on a purely circumstantial basis. TOE SECOND IMMIGRATION may have begun a few centuries prior to the Christian era, and unlike the former expedition or expeditions, to have traversed north- eastern Asia to its Arctic confines, and then east to the narrow channel now known as Behring's Straits, which they crossed, and sailing up the unchanging Yukon, settled under the shadow of Mount St. Elias for many years, and pushing South commingled •with their countrymen, soon acquiring the characteristics of the descendants of the first colonists. Chinese chronicles tell of such a people, who went North and were never heard of more. Circum- stances conspire to render that particular colony the carriers of a ;new religious faith and of an alphabetic system of a representative .character to the old colonists, and they, doubtless, exercised a most [beneficial influence in other respects ; because the influx of immi- ;grant3 of such culture ag were the Chinese, even of that remote ■period, must necessarily bear very favorable results, not only in !bi'inging in reports of their travels, but also accounts from the rfatherland bearing on the latest events. With the idea of a second and important exodus there are many theorists united, one of whom sa^^s: " It is now the generally •received opinion that the first inhabitants of America passed over from Asia through these straits. The number of small islands ■-lying between both continents renders this opinion still more :probable; and it is yet farther confirmed by some remarkable traces • of similarity in the physical conformation of the northern natives • of both continents. The Esquimaux of North America, the isamoieds of Asia, and the Laplanders of Europe, are supposed to be of the same family; and this supposition is strengthened by the ;iifl3nity which exists in their languages. The researches of Hum- HISTORY OF INDIANA. 21 boldt have traced the Mexicans to the vicinity of Behring's Straits; whence it is conjectured that they, as well as the Peruvians and other tribes, came originally from Asia, and were the Iliongnoos, who are, in the Chinese annals, said to have emigrated under Puno, and to have been lost in the North of Siberia." Since this theory is accepted by most antiquaries, there is every reason to believe that from the discovery of what may be called an overland route to what was then considered an eastern extension of that country which is now known as the " Celestial Empire," many caravans of emigrants passed to their new homes in the land of illimitable possibilities until the way became a well-marked trail over which the Asiatic might travel forward, and having once entered the Elysian fields never entertained an idea of returning. Thus from generation to generation the tide of immigration poured in until the slopes of the Pacific and the banks of the great inland rivers became hives of busy industry. Magnificent cities and monuments were raised at the bidding of the tribal leaders and populous settlements centered with happy villages sprung up everywhere in manifestation of the power and wealth and knowl- edge of the people. The colonizing Caucasian of the historic period walked over this great country on the very ruins of a civil- ization which a thousand years before eclipsed all that of which he could boast. He walked through the wilderness of the West over buried treasures hidden under the accumulated growth of nature, nor rested until he saw, with great surprise, the remains of ancient pyramids and temples and cities, larger and evidently more beauti- ful than ancient Egypt could bring forth after its long years of uninterrupted history. The pyramids resemble those of Egypt in exterior form, and in some instances are of larger dimensions. The pyramid of Cholula is square, having each side of its base 1,335 feet in length, and its height about 172 feet. Another pyramid? situated in the north of Vera Cruz, is formed of large blocks- of highly-polished porphyry, and bears upon its front hiero- glyphic inscriptions and curious sculpture. Each side of its square base is 82 feet in length, and a flight of 57 steps conducts to its summit, which is 65 feet in height. The ruins of Palenque are said to extend 20 miles along the ridge of a mountain, and the remains of an Aztec city, near the banks of the river Gila, are spread over more than a square league. Their literature consisted of hieroglyphics; but their arithmetical knowledge did not extend farther than their calculations by the aid of grains of corn. Yet^ 22 HISTORY OF INDIANA. notwithstanding all their varied accoinplisliments, and they were evidently many, their notions of religious duty led to a most demo- niac zeal at once barbarously savage and ferociously cruel. Each visiting, god instead of bringing new life to the people, brought death to thousands; and their grotesque idols, exposed to drown the senses of the beliolders in fear, wrought wretchedness rather than spiritual happiness, until, as some learned and humane Monte- zumian said, the people never approached these idols without fear, and this fear was the great animating principle, the great religious motive power which sustained the terrible religion. Their altars were sprinkled with blood drawn from their own bodies in large quantities, and on them thousands of human victims were sacri- ficed in honor of the demons whom they worshiped. The head and heart of every captive taken in war were offered up as a bloody sacrifice to the god of battles, while the victorious legions feasted on the remaining portioas of the dead bodies. It has been ascer- tained that during the ceremonies attendant on the consecration of two of their temples, the number of prisoners offered up ia sacri- fice was 12,210; wliile their own legions contributed voluntary victims to the terrible belief in large numbers. Nor did this horrible custom cease immediately after 1521, when Cortez entered the imperial city of the Montezumas; for, on being driven from it, all his troops who fell into the hands of the native soldiers were subjected to the most terrible and prolonged suffering that could be experienced in this world, and when about to yield up that spirit which is indestructible, were offered in sacrifice, their hearts and heads consecrated, and the victors allowed to feast on the yet warm flesh. A reference is made here to the period when the Montezumas ruled over Mexico, simply to gain a better idea of the hideous idolatry' which took the place of the old Boodhism of the Mound Builders, and doubtless helped in a great measure to give victory to the new comers, eveu as the tenets of Mahometanism urged the ignorant followers of the prophet to the conquest of great nations. It was not the faith of the people who built the mounds and the pyramids and the temples, and who, 200 years before the Christian era, built the great wall of jealous China. No: rather was it that terrible faith born of the Tartar victory, which carried the great defenses of Cliina at the point of the javelin and hatchet, who afterward marched to the very walls of Rome, under Alaric, and ^ HISTORY OF INDIANA. 23 spread over the islands of Polynesia to the Pacific slopes of South America. THE TARTARS came there, and, like the pure Mongols of Mexico and the Missis- sippi valley, rose to a state of civilization bordering on that attained by them. Here for centuries the sons of the fierce Tartar race con- tinued to dwell in comparative peace until the all-ruling ambition of empire took in the whole country from the Pacific to the Atlan- tic, and peopled the vast territory watered by the Amazon with a race that was destined to conquer all the peoples of the Orient, and only to fall before the march of the arch-civilizing Caucasian. In course of time those fierce Tartars pushed their settlements northward, and ultimately entered the territories of the Mound Builders, putting to death all who fell within their reach, and causing the survivors of the death-dealing invasion to seek a refuge from the hordes of this semi-barbarous people in the wilds and fast- . nesses of the North and Northwest. The beautiful country of the Mound Builders was now in the hands of savage invaders, the quiet, industrious people who raised the temples and pyramids were gone; and the wealth of intelligence and industry, accumulating forages, passed into the possession of a rapacious horde, who could admire it only so far as it offered objects for plunder. Even in this the invaders were satisfied, and then having arrived at the height of their ambition, rested on their swords and entered upon the luxury and ease in the enjoyment of which they were found when the van- guard of European civilization appeared upon the scene. Mean- time the southern countries which those adventurers abandoned after having completed their conquests in the North, were soon peopled by hundreds of people, always moving from island to island and ultimately halting amid the ruins of villages deserted by those who, as legends tell, had passed eastward but never returned; and it would scarcely be a matter for surprise if those emigrants were found to be the progenitors of that race found by the Spaniards in 1532, and identical with the Araucanians, Cuenches and Huil- tiches of to-day. RELICS OF THE MOUND BUILDERS. One of the most brilliant and impartial historians of the Republic stated that the valley of the Mississippi contained no monuments. So far as the word is entertained now, he was literally correct, but 24 HISTOKY OF INDIANA. in some hasty eflFort neglected to qualify his sentence by a refer- ence to the numerous relics of antiquity to be found throughout its length and breadth, and so exposed his chapters to criticism. The valley of the Father of Waters, and indeed the country from the trap rocks of the Great Lakes southeast to the Gulf and south- west to Mexico, abound in tell-tale monuments of a race of people much farther advanced in civilization than the Montezumas of the sixteenth century. The remains of walls and fortifications found in Kentucky and Indiana, the earthworks of Vincennes and throughout the valley of the Wabash, the mounds scattered over Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Virginia, and those found in Illi- nois, Wisconsin and Minnesota, are all evidences of the univer- sality of the Chinese Mongols and of their advance toward a com- parative knowledge of man and cosmology. At the mouth of Fourteen-Mile creek, in Clark county, Indiana, there stands one of these old monuments known as the '■ Stone Fort." It is an unmistakable heirloom of a great and ancient people, and must have formed one of their most important posts. The State Geolo- gist's report, filed among the records of the State and furnished by Prof. Cox, says: "At the mouth of Fourteen-Mile creek, and about three miles from Charleston, the county-seat of Clark county, there is one of the most remarkable stone fortifications which has ever come under my notice. Accompanied by my assistant, Mr. Borden, and a number of citizens of Charleston, I visited the ' Stone Fort' for the purpose of making an examination of it. The locality selected for this fort presents many natural advantages for making it impregnable to the opposing forces of prehistoric times. It occupies the point of an elevated narrow ridge which faces the Ohio river on the east and is bordered by Fourteen-Mile creek on the west side. This creek empties into the Ohio a short distance below the fort. The top of the ridge is pear-shaped, with the part answering to the neck at the north end. This part is not over twenty feet wide, and is protected by precipitous natural walls of stone. It is 280 feet above the level of the Ohio river, and the slope is very gradual to the south. At the upper field it is 240 feet high and one hundred steps wide. At the lower timber it is 120 feet high. The bottom land at the foot of the south end is sixty feet above the river. Along the greater part of the Ohio river front there is an abrupt escarpment rock, entirely too steep to be scaled, and a similar natural barrier exists along a portion of the northwest side of the ridge, facing the creek. This natural wall >< o w » »-« H C .s HISTORY OF INDIANA. 27 is joined to the neck of an artificial wall, made by piling up, mason fashion but without mortar, loose stone, which had evidently been pried up from the carboniferous layers of rock. This made wall, at this point, is about 150 feet long. It is built along the slope of the bill and had an elevation of about 75 feet above its base, the upper ten feet being vertical. The inside of the wall is protected by a ditch. The remainder of the hill is protected by an artificial stone wall, built in the same manner, but not more than ten feet high. The elevation of the side wall above the creek bottom is 80 feet. Within the artificial walls is a string of mounds which rise to the height of the wall, and are protected from the washing of the hill- sides by a ditch 20 feet wide and four feet deep. The position of the artificial walls, natural cliffs of bedded stone, as well as that of tlie ditch and mounds, are well illustrated. The top of the enclosed ridge embraces ten or twelve acres, and there are as many as five mounds that can be recognized on the flat surface, while no doubt many others existed which have been obliterated by time, and tliough the agency of man in his efibrts to cultivate a portion of the ground. A trench was cut into one of these mounds in search of relics. A few fragments of charcoal and decomposed bones, and a large irregular, diamond-shaped boulder, with a small circular indentation near the middle of the upper part, that was worn quite smooth by the use to which it had been put, and the small pieces of fossil coral, comprised all the articles of note which were revealed by the excavation. The earth of which the mound is made resem- bles that seen on the hillside, and was probably in most part taken from the ditch. The margin next to the ditch was protected by slabs of stone set on edge, and leaning at an angle corresponding to the slope of the mound. This stone shield was two and one-half feet wide and one foot high. At intervals along the great ditch there are channels formed between the mounds that probably served to carry ofi" the surplus water through openings in the outer wall. On the top of the enclosed ridge, and near its narrowest part, there is one mound much larger than any of the others, and so situated as to command an extensive view up and down the Ohio river, as well as afibrding an unobstructed view east and west. This is designated as ' Look-out Mound.' There is near it a slight break in the cliff of rock, which furnished a narrow passageway to the Ohio river. Though the locality afforded many natural advantages for a fort or stronghold, one is compelled to admit that much skill was displayed .and labor expended in making its defense as perfect as possible at 28 UISTOKY OF I-NMIANA. all points. Stone axes, pestles, arrow-heads, spear-points, totums, charms and flint flakes have been found in great abundance in plowing the field at the foot of the old fort." From the " Stone Fort " the Professor turns his steps to Posey county, at a point on the Wabash, ten miles above the mouth, called "Bone Bank," on account of the number of human bones continually washed out from the river bank. " It is," he states "situated in a bend on the left bank of the river; and the ground is about ten feet above high-water mark, being tlie only land along this portion of the river that is not submerged in seasons of high water. Tiie bank slopes gradually back from the river to a slough. This slough now seldom contains water, but no doubt at one time it was an arm of the Wabash river, which flowed around the Bone Bank and afforded protection to the island home of the Mound Builders. The Wabash has been changing its bed for many years, leaving a broad extent of newly made land on the right shore, and gradually making inroads on the left shore by cutting away the Bone Bank. The stages of growth of land on the right bank of the river are well defined by thecottonwood trees, which increase in size as you go back from the river. Unless there is a change in the cur- rent of the river, all trace of the Bone Bank will be obliterated. Already within the memory of the white inhabitants, the bank has been removed to the width of several hundred yards. As the bank is cut by the current of the river it loses its support, and when the water sinks it tumbles over, carrying with it the bones of the Mound Builders and the cherished articles buried with them. No locality in the country furnishes a greater number and variety of relics than this. It has proved especially rich in pottery of quaint design and skillful workmanship. I have a number of jugs and pots and a cup found at the Bone Bank. This kind of work has been very abundant, and is still f jund in such quantities that we are led to conclude that its manufacture formed a leading indus- try of the inhabitants of the Bone Bank. It is not in Europe alone that we find a well-founded claim of high antiquity for the art of making hard and durable stone by a mixture of clay, lime, sand and stone; for I am convinced that this art was possessed by a race of people who inhabited this continent at a period so remote that neither tradition nor history can furnish any account of thein. They belonged to the Neolithic, or polished-stone, age. They lived in towns and built mounds for sepulture and worship and pro- tected their homes bv surrounding them with walls of earth and IlIsTiiliY OF INDIANA. 29 stone. Ill sotiie of these mounds specimens of various kinds of pottery, in a perfect state of preservation, have from time to time been found, and fragments are so common that every student of archieology can have a bountiful supply. Some of these fragments indicate vessels of very great size. At the Saline springs of Gal- latin I picked up fragments that indicated, by their curvature, ves- sels five to six feet in diameter, and it is probable they are frag- ments of artificial stone pans used to hold brine that was manufac- tured into salt by solar evaporation. " Now, all the pottery belonging to the Mound Builders' age, which I have seen, is composed of alluvial clay and sand, or a mix- ture of the former with pulverized fresh-water shells. A paste made of such a mixture possesses, in high degree, the properties of hydraulic Puzzuoland and Portland cement, so that vessels formed of it hardened without being burned, as is customary with modern pottery." The Professor deals very aptly with this industry of the aborig- ines, and concludes a very able disquisition on the Bone Bank in its relation to the prehistoric builders. C^o^ ^nv: % niEROGLYPHICS OF THE MOUND-BUILDERS. The great circular redoubt or earth-work found two miles west ot the village of New Washington, and the " Stone Fort," on a ridge one mile west of the village of Deputy, offer a subject for the anti- quarian us deeply interesting as any of the monuments of a iecayod empire so far discovered. 30 HISTORY OF INDIANA. From end to end of Indiana there are to be found many other rel- ics of the obscure past. Some of them have been unearthed and now appear among the collected antiquities at Indianapolis. The highly finished sandstone pipe, the copper ax, stone axes, flint arrow-heads and magnetic plummets found a few years ago beneath the soil of Cut-Oflf Island near New Harmony, together with the pipes of rare workmanship and und^iubted age, unearthed near Covington, all live as it were in testimony of their owner's and maker's excel- lence, and hold a share in the evidence of the partial annihilation of a race, with the complete disruption of its manners, customs and industries; and it is possible that when numbers of these relics are placed together, a key to the phonetic or rather hieroglyphic system of that remote period might be evolved. It may be asked what these hieroglypliical characters reall}' are. Well, they are varied in form, so much so that the pipes found in the mounds of Indians, each bearing a distinct representation of some animal, may be taken for one species, used to represent the abstract ideas of the Mound Builders. The second form consists of pure hieroglyphics or phonetic characters, in which the sound is represented instead of the object; and the third, or painted form of the first, conveys to the mind that whi^h is desired to be re])re- sented. This form exists among the Cree Indians of the far North- west, at present. They, when departing from their permanent vil- lages for the distant hunting grounds, paint on the barked trees in the neighborhood the figure of a snake or eagle, or perhaps huskey dog; and this animal is supposed to guard the position until the warrior's return, or welcome any friendly tribes that may arrive there in the interim. In the case of the Mound Builders, it is un- likely that this latter extreme was resorted to, for tiie simple reason that the relics of their occupation are too high in the ways of art to tolerate such a barbarous science of language; but the sculptured pipes and javelins and spear-heads of the Mound Builders may be taken as a collection of graven images, each conveying a set of ideas easily understood, and perhaps sometimes or more generally used to designate the vocation, name or character of the owner. That the builders possessed an alphabet of a phonetic form, and purely hieroglyphic, can scarcely be questioned; but until one or more of the unearthed tablets, which bore all or even a portion of such characters, are raised from their centiiried graves, the mystery whieli surrounds this people must remain, while we must dwell in a world of mere sneculation. HISTDKY OF INDIANA. 31 Vigo, Jasper, Sullivan, Switzerland and Ohio counties can boast of a most liberal endowment in this relation; and when in other days the people will direct a minute inquiry, and penetrate to the very heart of the thousand cones which are scattered throughout the land, they may possibly extract the blood in the shape of metal- lic and porcelain works, with hieroglyphic tablets, while leaving the form of heart and body complete to entertain and delight un- born generations, who in their time will wonder much when they learn that an American people, living toward the close of the 59th century, could possibly indulge in such an anachronism as is im- plied in the term "New World." THE INDIANS. The origin of the Red Men, or American Indians, is a subject which interests as well as instructs. It is a favorite with the etli- nologist, even as it is one of deep concern to the ordinary reader. A review of two works lately published on the origin of the Indians treats the matter in a peculiarly reasonable light. It says: " Recently a German writer has put forward one theory on the subject, and an English writer has put forward another and directly opposite theory. Tiie difference of opinion concerning our aborig- inals among authors who have made a profound study of races is at once curious and interesting. Blumenbach treats them in his classifications as a distinct variety of the human family; but, in the threefold division of Dr. Latham, they are ranked among the Mon- golidiB. Other writers on race regard them as a branch of the great Mongolian family, which at a distant period found its way from Asia to this continent, and remained here for centuries separate from the rest of mankind, passing, meanwhile, through divers phases of barbarism and civilization. Morton, our eminent eth- nologist, and his followers, Nott and Gliddon, claim for our native Red Men an origin as distinct as the flora and fauna of this conti- nent. Prichard, whose views are apt to differ from Morton's, finds reason to believe, on comparing the American tribes together, that they must have formed a separate department of nations from the earliest period of the world. The era of their existence as a distinct and insulated people must probably be dated back to the time which separated into nations the inhabitants of the Old World, and gave to each its individuality and primitive language. Dr. Robert Brown, the latest authority, attributes, in his •' Races of Mankind," an Asiatic origin to our aboriginals. lie says that the Western In- dians not only personally resemble their nearest neighbors — the Northeastern Asiatics — but they resemble them in language and traditions. The Esquimaux on the American and the Tchuktchis on the Asiatic side understand one another perfectly. Modern an- 82 HISTORY OF INDIANA. thropologists, indeed, are disposed to think that Japan, the Kuriles, and neighboring regions, may be regarded as the original home of the greater part of the native American race. It is also admitted by them that between tlie tribes scattered from the Arctic sea to Cape Horn there is more uniformity of physical features than is seen in any other quarter of the globe. The weight of evidence and authority is altogether in favor of the opinion that our so- called Indians are a branch of the Mongolian family, and all addi- tional researches strengthen the opinion. The tribes of both North and South America are unquestionably homogeneous, and, in all likelihood, had their origin in Asia, though they have been altered and modified by thousands of years of total separation from the parent stock." The conclusions arrived at by the reviewer at that time, though safe, are too general to lead the reader to form any definite idea on the subject. No doubt whatever can exist, when the American In- dian is regarded as of an Asiatic origin; but there is nothing in the works or even in the review, to which these works were subjected, which misht account for the vast difference in manner and form between the Red Man, as he is now known, or even as he appeared to Columbus and his successors in the field of discovery, and the comparatively civilized inhabitants of Mexico, as seen in 1521 by Cortez, and of Peru, as witnessed by Pizarro in 1532. The fact is that the pure bred Indian of the present is descended directly from the earliest inhabitants, or in other words from the survivors of that people who, on being driven from their fair possessions, re- tired to the wilderness in sorrow and reared up their children under the saddening influences of their unquenchable griefs, bequeathing them only the habits of the wild, cloud-roofed home of their de- clining years, a sullen silence, and a rude moral code. In after years these wild sons of the forest and prairie grev? in numbers and in strength. Some legend told them of their present sulFerings, of the station which their fathers once had known, and of the riotous race which now reveled in wealth which should be theirs. The fierce passions of the savage were aroused, and uniting their scat- tered bands marched in silence upon the villages of the Tartars, driving them onward to the capital of their Incas, and consigning their homes to the flames. Once in view of the great city, the hurrying bands halted in surprise; but Tartar cunning took in the situation and offered pledges of amity, which were sacredly ob- served. Henceforth Mexico was open to the Indians, bearing pre- cisely the same relation to them that the Hudson's Bay Company's HISTOKY OF INDIANA. 33 villages do to the Northwestern Indians of the present; obtaining all, and bestowing very little. The subjection of the Mongoliau race represented in North America by that branch of it to which the Tartars belonged, represented in the Southern portion of the con- tinent, seems to have taken place some five centuries before the advent of the European, while it may be concluded that the war of the races which resulted in reducing the villages erected by the Tartar hordes to ruin took place between one and two hundred ;?ears later. These statements, though actually referring to events which in point of time are comparatively modern, can only be sub- stantiated by the facts that, about the periods mentioned the dead bodies of an unknown race of men were washed ashore on the Eu- ropean coasts, while previous to that time there is no account whatever in European annals of even a vestige of trans- Atlantic hu- manity being transferred by ocean currents to the gaze of a won- dering people. Towards the latter half ot the 15th century two dead bodies entirely free from decomposition, and corresponding with the Red Men as they afterward appeared to Columbus, were cast on the shores of the Azores, and confirmed Columbus in his be- lief in the existence of a western world and western people. Storm and flood and disease have created sad havoc in the ranks of the Indian since the occupation of the country by the white man. These natural causes have conspired to decimate the race even more than the advance of civilization, which seems not to affect it to any material extent. In its maintenance of the same number of rep- resentatives during three centuries, and its existence in the very face of a most unceremonious, and, whenever necessary, cruel con- quest, the grand dispensations of the unseen Ruler of the universe is demonstrated; for, without the aborigines, savage and treach- erous as they were, it is possible that the explorers of former times would have so many natural difficulties to contend with, that their work would be surrendered in despair, and the most fertile regions of the continent saved for the plowshares of generations yet un- born. It is questionable whether we owe the discovery of this con- tinent to the unaided scientific knowledge of Columbus, or to the dead bodies of the two Indians referred to above; nor can their ser- vices to the explorers of ancient and modern times be over-esti- mated. Their existence is embraced in the plan of the Divinity for the government of the world, and it will not form subject for surprise to learn that the same intelligence which sent a thrill ot liberty into every corner of the republic, will, in the near future,- 3-t HISTORY OF INDIANA. devise some method under which the remnant of a great and an- cient race may taste the sweets of public Jcindness, and feel that, after centuries of turmoil and tjranny, they have at last found a shelter amid a sympathizing people. Many have looked at the In- dian as the pessimist does at all things; they say that he was never formidable until the white man supplied him with the weapons of modern warfare; but there is no mention made of his eviction from his retired home, and the little plot of cultivated garden which formed the nucleus of a village that, if fostered instead of being destroyed, might possibly hold an Indian population of some im- portance in the economy of the nation. There is no intention what- ever to maintain that the occupation of this country by the favored races is wrong even in principle; for where any obstacle to advanc- ing civilization exists, it has to fall to the ground; but it may be said, with some truth, that the white man, instead of a policy of conciliation formed upon the power of kindness, indulged in bel- ligerency as impolitic as it was unjust. A. modern writer says, when speaking of tiio Indian's character: "He did not exhibit that steady valor and efficient di.-cipline of the American soldier; and to-day on the plains Sheridan's troopers would not hesitate to attack the bravest band, though outnumbered three to one." This piece of information applies to the European and African, as well as to the Indian. The American soldier, and particularly the troopers referred to, would not fear or shrink from a very legion ot demons, even with odds against them. This mode of warfare seems strangely peculiar when compared with the military sj'stems of civilized countries; yet, since the main object of armed men is to defend a country or a principle, and to destroy anything which may oppose itself to them, the mode of warfare pursued bj' the savage will be found admirably adapted to their requirements in this con- nection, and will doubtless compare favorably with the systems of the Afghans and Persians of the present, and the Caucasian pcojile "sf the first historic period. MANNERS AND CUSTOMS. The art of hunting not only supplied the Indian with food, but, like that of war, was a means of gratifying his love of distinction. The male children, as soon as they acquired sufficient age and strength, were furnished with a bow and arrow and taught to shoot birds and other small game. Success in killing a large quadruped required years of careful study and practice, and the art was as UISTDKY UF INDIANA. 35- seduloush- inculcated in the minds of the rising generation as are the elements of reading, writing and arithmetic in the common schools of civilized communities. The mazes of the forest and the dense, tall grass of the prairies were the best fields for the exercise of the hunter's skill. No feet could be impressed in the yielding soil but that the tracks were the objects of the most searching scrutiny, and revealed at a glance the animal that made them, the direction it was pursuing, and the time that had elapsed since it had passed. In a forest country he selected the valleys, because they were most frequently the resort of game. The most easilj taken, perhaps, of all the animals of the chase was the deer. It is. endowed with a curiosity which prompts it to stop in its flight and look back at the approaching hunter, who always avails himself ot" this opportunity to let fly the fatal arrow. Their general councils were composed of the chiefs and old men. When in council, they usually sat in concentric circles around the speaker, and each individual, notwithstanding the fiery passions that rankled within, preserved an exterior as immovable as if cast in bronze. Before commencing business a person appeared with the sacred pipe, and another with fire to kindle it. After being lighted it was first presented to heaven, secondly to the earthy, thirdly to the presiding spirit, and lastly the several councilors^ each of whom took a whift". These formalities were observed with as close exactness as state etiquette in civilized courts. The dwellings of the Indians were of the simi^lest and rudest character. On some pleasant spot by the bank of a river, or near an ever-running spring, they raised their groups of wigwams, con- structed of the bark of trees, and easily taken down and removed to another spot. The dwelling-places of the chiefs were sometimes more spacious, and constructed with greater care, but of the same materials. Skins taken in the chase served them for repose. Though principally dependent upon hunting and fishing, the uncertain supply from those sources led them to cultivate small patches of corn. Every family did everything necessary within itself, commerce, oraninterchangeof articles, being almost unknown to them. In cases of dispute and dissension, each Indian relied upon himself for retaliation. Blood for blood was the rule, and the relatives of the slain man were bound to obtain blood>' revenge for his death. This principle gave rise, as a matter of course, to innumerable and bitter feuds, and wars of extermination where such were possible. War, indeed, rather than peace, was the Indian's-^ 36 HISTUKV OF INDIANA. glory and delight, — war, not conducted as civilization, but war where individual skill, endurance, gallantry and cruelty' were prime requisites. For such a purpose as revenge the Indian would make great sacrifices, and display a patience and perseverance truly heroic; hut when the excitement was over, he sank back into a listless, un- occupied, well-nigh useless savage. During the intervals of his more exciting pursuits, the Indian employed his time in decorating his person with all the refinement of paint and feathers, and in the manufacture of his arms and of cauoes. These were constructed ot bark, and so light that they could easily be carried on the shoulder from stream to stream. Ilis amusements were the war-dance, ath- letic games, the narration of his exploits, and listening to the ora- tory of the chiefs; but during long periods of such existence he remained in a state of torpor, gazing listlessly upon the trees of the forests and the clouds that sailed above them ; and this vacancy imprinted an habitual gravity, and even melancholy, upon his gen- eral deportment. The mam labor and drudgery of Indian communities fell upon the women. The planting, tending and gathering of the crops, making mats and baskets, carrying burdens, — in fact, all things ot the kind were performed by them, thus making their condition but little better than that of slaves. Marriage was merely a matter of bargain and sale, the husband giving presents to the father of the bride. In general they had but few children. They were sub- jected to many and severe attacks of sickness, and at times famine and pestilence swept away whole tribes. EXPLORATIONS BY THE WHITES. EARLIEST EXri.oEEKS. The State of Indiana is bounded on tlie east by the meridian line which forms also the western boundary of Ohio, extending due north from the mouth of the Great Miami river; on the south by the Ohio river from the mouth of the Great Miami to the mouth of the Wabash; on the west hyaline drawn along the middle of the Wabash river from its mouth to a point where a due north line from the town of Vincennes would last touch the shore of said river, and thence directly north to Lake Michigan; and on the north by said lake and an east and west line ten miles north of the ex- treme south end of the lake, and extending to its intersection with the aforesaid meridian, the west boundary of Ohio. These bound- aries include an area of 33,809 square miles, lying between 37° 47' and -iP 50 north latitude, and between 7° 45' and IP 1 west longitude from Washington. After the discovery of America by Columbus in 1492, more than 150 years passed away before any portion of the territory now com- prised within the above limits was explored by Europeans. Colo- nies were established in Florida, Virginia and JSfova Scotia by the principal rival governments of Europe, but not until about 1670-'2 did the first white travelers venture as far into the Northwest as Indiana or Lake Michigan. These explorers were Frenchmen by the names of Claude AUouez and Claude Dablon, who then visited what is now the eastern ])art of Wisconsin, the northeastern portion of Illinois and probably that portion of this State north of the Kan- kakee river. In the following year M. Joliet, an agent of the French Colonial government, and James Marquette, a good and simple-hearted missionary who had his station at Mackinaw, ex- plored the country about Green Bay, and along Fox and Wiscon- sin rivers as far westward as the Missi6sip])i, the banks of which they reached June 17, 1673. They descended this river to about 33° 40', but returned by way of the Illinois river and the route they came in the Lake Region. At a village among the Illinois In- dians, Manpiutte and his small band of adventurers were receit-ed (37) 3» JIISTORY OF INDIANA. in a friendly manner and treated hospitably. They were made the honored guestt at a great feast, where hominy, fish, dog meat and roast buffalo meat were spread before them in great abundance. In 16S2 LaS&l'e explored the "West, but it is not known that he entered tiie region now embraced within the State of Indiana. He took formal possession, however, of all the Mississippi region in the name of the King of France, in whose honor he gave all this Mis- sissippi region, including what is now Indiana, the name "Louisi- ana." Spain at the same time laid claim to all the region about the Gulf of Mexico, and thus these two trreat nations were brousfht into collision. ( But the country was actually held and occupied by the great Miami confederacy of Indians, the Miamis proper (an- ciently the Twightwees) being the eastern and most powerful tribe. Their territory extended strictly from the^cioto river west to the llinois river.) Their villages were few and scattering, and their occupation was scarcely dense enough to maintain itself against in- jvasion. Their settlements were occasionally visited by Christian missionaries, fur traders and adventurers, but no body of white men made any settlement sufficiently permanent for a title to national possession. Christian zeal animated France and England in mis- sionary enterprise, the former in the interests of Catholicism and tlie latter in the interests of Protestantism. Hence their haste to preoccupy the land and proselyte the aborigines. No doubt this ugly rivalry was often seen by Indians, and they refused to be ])roselyted to either branch of Christianity. The " Five Nations," farther east, comprised the Mohawks, Oaeidas, Cayugas, Onondaguas and Senecas. In 1677 the nuihbur ol warriors in this confederacy was 2,150. About 1711 the Tusca- roras retired from Carolina and joined the Iroquois, or Five Na- tions, which, after that event, became known as the " Six Nations." In 1689 hostilities broke out between the Five Nations and the Colonists of Canada, and the almost constant wars in whicli France was engaged until the treaty of Ryswick in 1697 combined to check the grasping policy of Louis" XIV.. and to retard the plant- ing of French colonies in the Mississippi vallej'. Missionary efforts, however, continued with more failure than success, the Jesuits allying themselves with tiie Indians in habits and customs, even encouraging inter-marriage between them and their white fol- lowers. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 39 OUABAOHE. The Wabash was first named by the French, and spelled by them Oiiabache. This river was known even before the Ohio, and was navigated as the Ouabache all the way to the Mississippi a long time before it was discovered that it was a tributary of the Ohio (Belle Riviere). In navigating the Mississippi they thought they passed the mouth of the Ouabache instead of the Ohio. In traveling from the Great Lakes to the south, the French always went by the way of the Ouabache or Illinois. VINCENUES. Francois Morgan de Vinsenne served in Canada as early as 1720 in the regiment of " De Carrignan " of the French service, and again on the lakes in the vicinity of Sault Ste. Marie in the same service under M. de Vaudriel, in 1725. It is possible that his ad- vent to Vincennes may have taken place in 1732; and in proof of this the only record is an act of sale under the joint names of him- self and Madame Vinsenne, the daughter of M. Philip Longprie, and dated Jan. 5, 1735. This document gives his military position as commandant of the post of Ouabache in the service of the French King. The will of Longprie, dated March 10, same year, bequeaths him, among other things, 408 pounds of pork, which he ordered to be kept safe until Vinsenne, who was then at Ouabache, returned to Kaskaskia. Tliere are many other documents connected with its early settle- ment by Vinsenne, among which is a receipt for the 100 pistoles granted him as his wife's marriage dowry. In 1736 this officer was ordered to Charlevoix by D'Artagette, viceroy of the King at New Orleans, and commandant of Illinois. Here M. St. Vinsenne re- ceived his mortal wounds. The event is chronicled as follows, in the words of D'Artagette: " We have just received very bad news from Louisiana, and our war with the Chickasaws. The French have been defeated. Among the slain is M. de Vinsenne, who ceased not until his last breath to exhort his men to behave worthy of their faith and fatherland." Thus closed the career of this gallant oiBcer, leaving a name which holds as a remembrancer the present beautiful town of Vin- cennes, changed from Vinsenne to its present orthography in 1749. Post Vincennes was settled as early as 1710 or 1711. In a letter from Father Marest to Father Germon, dated at Kaskaskia, Nov. 9, 1712, occurs tliis passage: "Zes Francois itoient itahli unfort sw 40 HISTOKT OF INDIANA. leflcwoeOuahache ; ils deraanderent un missionaire ,' et le Pere Mermet leurfut envoye. Ve Pere crut devoir travailler a la oonversion des Mascouteas qui avoieiit fait un village sur les hords dumeme jleuve. Cest une nation Indians qni entend la la/ngue niinoise." Translated: "Tlie French have established a fort upon the river Wabash, and want a missionary; and Fatlier Mermet has been sent to them. That Father believes he should labor for the conversion of the Mascoutens, who have built a vil- lage on the banks of the same river. They are a nation of Indians who understand the language of the Illinois." Mermet was therefore the iirst preacher of Christianity in this part of the world, and his mission was to convert the Mascoutens, a branch of the Miamis. "The way I took," says lie, " was to con- found, in the presence of the whole tribe, one of these charlatans [medicine men], whose Manitou, or great spirit which he wor- shiped, was the buffalo. After leading him on insensibly to the avowal that it was not the buffalo that he worshiped, but the Man- itou, or spirit, of the buffalo, which was under the earth and ani- mated all buffaloes, which heals the sick and has all power, I asked him whether other beasts, the bear for instance, and which one of his nation worshiped, was not equally inhabited by a Manitou, which was under the earth. 'Without doubt,' said the grand medi- cine man. ' If this is so,' said I, ' men ought to have a Manitou who inhabits them.' ' Nothing more certain,' said he. ' Ought not that to convince you,' continued I, ' that you are not very reasonable? For if man upon the earth is the master of all animals, if he kills them, if he eats them, does it not follow that the Mani- tou which inhabits him must have a mastery over all other Maui- tons? Why then do you not invoke him instead of the Manitou of the bear and the buffalo, when you are sick?' This reasoning- disconcerted the charlatan. But this was all the effect it produced." The result of convincing these heathen by logic, as is generally the case the world over, was only a temporary logical victory, and no change whatever was produced in the professions and practices of the Indians. But the first Christian (Catholic) missionary at this place whose name we find recorded in the Church annals, was Meurin, in 184!). The church building used by these early missionaries at Vin- cennes is thus described by the " oldest inhabitants:" Fronting on Water street and running back on Church street, it was a plaia HISTORY OF INDIANA. 4:1 building with a rough exterior, of upright posts, chinked and daubed, with a rough coat of cement on the outside; about 20 feet wide and 60 long; one story high, with a small belfry and an equally small bell." It was dedicated to St. Francis Xavier. This spot is now occupied by a splendid cathedral. Vincennes has ever been a stronghold of Catholicism. The Church there has educated and sent out many clergymen of her faith, some of whom have become bishops, or attained other high positions in ecclesiastical authority. Almost contemporaneous with the progress of the Church at Vincennes was a missionary work near the moutbDf the Wea river, among the Ouiatenons, but the settlement there was broken up in early day. NATIONAL POLICIES. THE GREAT FRENCH SCHEME. Soon after the discovery of the mouth of the Mississippi by La- Salle in 1682, the government of France began to encourage the policy of establishing a line of trading posts and missionary stations extending through the West from Canada to Louisiana, and this policy was maintained, with partial success, for about 75 years. The traders persisted in importing whisky, which cancelled nearly every civilizing influence that could be brought to bear upon the Indian, and the vast distances between posts prevented that strength which can be enjoyed only by close and convenient inter- communication. Another characteristic of Indian nature was to listen attentively to all the missionary said, pretending to believe ^11 he preached, and then offer in turn his theory of the world, of religion, etc., and because he was not listened to with the same degree of attention and pretense of belief, would go off disgusted. This was his idea of the golden rule. The river St. Joseph of Lake Michigan was called " the river Miaiuis" in 1679, in which year LaSalle built a small fort on its bank, near the lake shore. The principal station of the mission for the instruction of the Miamis was established on the borders of this river. The first French post within the territory of the Miamis was at the mouth of the river Miamis, on an eminence naturally fortified on two sides by the river, and on one side by a 48 HISTORY OF INDIANA. deep ditch made by a fall of water. It was of triangular form. Tiie missionary Hennepin gives a good description uf it, as lie was one of the company who built it, in 1679. Says be: ""\Ve fell the trees that were on the top of the hill; and having cleared the same from bushes for about two musket shot, we began to build a redoubt of 80 feet long and 40 feet broad, with great square pieces of timber laid one upon another, and prepared a great number of stakes of about 25 feet long to drive into tlie ground, to make our fort more inaccessible on the riverside. We employed the whole month of November about that work, which was very hard, though we had no other food but the bear's flesh our savage killed. These beasts are very common in that place because of the great quantity of grapes they find there; but their flesh being too fat and luscious, our men began to be weary of it and desired leave to go a hunting to kill some wild goats. M. "LaSalle denied them that libert}', which caused some murmurs among them; and it was but unwill- ingly that they continued their work. This, together with the approaeli of winter and the apprehension that M. LaSalle had that his vessel (the Griffin) was lost, made him very melancholy, though he concealed it as much as he could. We made a cabin wherein we performed divine service every Sunday, and Father Gabriel and I, who preached alternately, took care to take such texts as were suitable to our pre>'ent circumstances and fit to inspire us with courage, concord and brotherly love. * * * The fort was at last perfected, and called Fort Miamis." In the year 1711 tlie missionary Chardon, who was said to be very zealous and apt in the acquisition of languages, had a station on the St. Joseph about 60 miles above the mouth. Charlevoix, another distinguished missionary from France, visited a post on this river in 1721. In a letter dated at -the j)lace, Aug. 16, hesay#: " There is a commandant here, with a small garrison. Plis house, which is but a very sorry one, is called tiie fort, from its being sur- rounded with an indifiiereut palisado, which is pretty near the case in all the rest. We have here two villages of Indians, one of the Miamis and the other of the Pottawatomies, both of them mostly Christians; but as they have been for a long time without any pas- tors, the missionary who has been lately sent to them will have no small difficulty in bringing them back to the exercise of their re- ligion." He speaks also of the main commodity for which the In. dians would part with their goods, namel}', spirituous liquors, which they drink and keep drunk upon as long as a supply lasted. INDIANS ATTACKING FEONTIEESIIEN. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 45 More than a century and a half has now passed since Charlevoix lined the above, without any change whatever in this trait of In- dian character. In 1165 the Miami nation, or confederacy, was composed of four tribes, whose total number of warriors was estimated at only 1,050 men. Of these about 250 were Tvvightwees, or Miamis proper, 300 Weas, or Ouiatenons,300 Piankeshawsand 200 Shockeys; and at this time the principal villages of the Twightwees were situated about the head of the Maumee river at and near the place where Fort Wayne now is. The larger Wea villages were near the banks of the Wabash river, in the vicinity of the Post Ouiatenon; and the Shockeys and Piankeshaws dwelt on the banks of the Vermil- lion and on the borders of the Wabash between Vincennes and Ouiatenon. Branches of the Pottawatomie, Shawnee, Delaware and Kickapoo tribes were permitted at difl'erent times to enter within the boundaries of the Miamis and reside for a while. The wars in which France and England were engaged, from 1688 to 1697, retarded the growth of the colonies of those nations in North America, and the eiforts made by France to connect Canada and the Gulf of Mexico by a chain of trading posts and colonies naturally excited the jealousy of England and gradually laid the foundation for a struggle at arms. After several stations were estab- lished elsewhere in the West, trading posts were started at the Miami villages, which stood at the head of the Maumee, at the Wea villages about Ouiatenon on the Wabash, and at the Piankeshaw vil- lages about the present sight of Vincennes. It is probable that before the close of the year 1719, temporary trading posts were erected at the sites of Fort Wayne, Ouiatenon and Vincennes. These points were probably often visited by French fur traders prior to 1700. In the meanwhile the English people in this country commenced also to establish military posts west of the Alleghanies, and thus matters went on until they naturally culminated in a general war, which, being waged by the French and Indians combined on one side, was called " the French and Indian war." This war was terminated in 1763 by a treaty at Paris, by which France ceded to Great Britain all of North America east of the Mississippi except New Orleans and the island on which it is situated; and indeed, France had the preceding autumn, by a secret convention, ceded to Spain all the country west of that river. 46 HISTORY OF INDIANA. POXTIAC'S WAR. In 1762, after Canada and its dependencies had been surrendered to the English, Poutiac and his partisans secretly organized a pow- erful confederacy in order to crush at one blow all English power in the West. This great scheme was skillfully projected and cau- tiously matured. The principal act in the programme was to gain admittance into the fort at Detroit, on pretense of a friendly visit, with short- ened muskets concealed under their blankets, and on a given signal suddenly break forth upon the garrison; but an inadvertent remark of au Indian woman led to a discovery of the plot, which was con- sequently averted. Pontiac and his warriors afterward made many attacks upon the English, some of which were successful, but the Indians were finally defeated in the general war. BRITISH POLICY. In 17(15 the total number of French families within the limits of the Northwestern Territory did not probably exceed 600. These were in settlements about Detroit, along the river Wabash and the neighborhood of Fort Chartres on the Mississippi. Of these fami- lies, about 80 or 90 resided at Post Vincennes, 14 at Fort Ouiate- non, on the Wabash, and nine or ten at the confluence of the St. Mary and St. Joseph rivers. The colonial policy of the British government opposed any meas- ures which might strengthen settlements in the interior of this country, lest they become self-supporting and independent of the mother country; hence the early and rapid settlemeut of the North- western territory was still further retarded by the short-sighted selfishness of England. That fatal polic}- consisted mainly in hold- ing the land in the hands of the government and not allowing it to be subdivided and sold to settlers. But in spite of all her efforts in this direction, she constantly made just such efforts as provoked the American people to rebel, and to rebel successfully, which was within 15 years after the perfect close of the French and Indiau war. AMERICAN POLICY. Thomas Jefferson, the shrewd statesman and wise Governor of Virginia, saw from tlie first tiiat actual occupation of Western lands was the only way to keep them out of the hands of foreigners and HISTOIJY OF INDIANA. ' 47 Indians. Therefore, directly after tlie conquest of Viiifennes by Clark, lie engaged a scientific corps to proceed nnder an escort to the Mississip])!, and ascertain by celestial observations tlie point on that river intersected by latitude 36° 30', the southern limit of the State, and to measure its distance to the Oliio. To Gen. Clark was entrusted the conduct of the Tnilitary operations in that quar- ter, lie was instructed to select a strong position near that point and estahl ish there a fort and garrison ; thence to extend his conquests northward to the lakes, erecting forts at different points, which might serve as monuments of actual possession, besides affording protection to that portion of the country. Fort "Jefferson " was erected and garrisoned on the Mississippi a few miles above the southern limit. The result of these operations was the addition, to the chartered limits of Virginia, of that immense region known as the " North- western Territory." The simple fact that such and such forts were established by the Americans in this vast region convinced the Brit- ish Commissioners that we had entitled ourselves to the land. But where are those " monuments " of our power now? INDIAN SAVAGERY. As a striking example of the inhuman treatment which the early Indians were capable of giving white people, we quote the follow ing blood-curdling story from Mr. Cox' " Recollections of the Wabash Valley": On the 11th of February, 1781, a wagoner named Irvin Hinton was sent from the block-house at Louisville, Ky., to Ilarrodsburg for a load of provisions for the fort. Two J'oung men, Richard Rue and George Holman, aged respectively 19 and 16 years, were sent as guards to protect the wagon from the depredations of any hostile Indians who might be lurking in the cane-brakes or ravines through which they must pass. Soon after their start a severe snow-storm set in which lasted until afternoon. Lest the melting snow might dampen the powder in their rifles, the guards fired them off, intending to reload them as soon as the storm ceased. Hinton drove the horses while Rue walked a few rods ahead and Holman about the same distance behind. As they ascended a hill about eight miles from Louisville Hinton heard some one say Wlioa to the horses. Supposing that something was wrong about the wagon, he stopped and asked Holman why he had called him to halt. Holman said that he had not spoken; Rue also denied it, 48 HISTOKY OF INDIANA. but said that he liad heard the voice distinctly. At tiiis time a voice cried out, " I will solve the mystery for you; if was Simon Girty that cried Whoa, and he meant what he said," — at the same time emerg- ing from a sink-hole a few rods from the roadside, followed by 13 Indians, who immediately surrounded the three Kentuckians and demanded them to surrender or die instanth'. The little party, making a virtue of necessity, surrendered to this renegade white man and his Indian allies. Being so near two forts, Girty made all possible speed in making fast his prisoners, selecting the lines and other parts of the harness, he prepared for an immediate flight across the Ohio. The panta- loons of the prisoners were cut off about four inches above the knees, and thus they started through the deep snow as fast as the horses could trot, leaving the wagon, containing a few empty bar- rels, standing in the road. They continued their march for sev- eral cold days, without fire at night, until they reached "Wa-puc-ca- nat-ta, where they compelled their prisoners to run the gauntlet as they entered the village. Hinton first ran the gauntlet and reached the council-house after receiving several severe blows upon the head and shoulders. Rue next ran between the lines, pursued by an Indian with an uplifted tomahawk. He far outstripped his pursuer and dodged most of the blows aimed at him. Holman complaining that it was too severe a test for a worn-out stripling like himself, was allowed to run between two lines of squaws and boys, and was followed by an Indian with a long switch. The first council of the Indians did not dispose of these young men; they were waiting for the presence of other chiefs and war- riors. Hinton escaped, but on the afternoon of the second day he was re-captured. Now the Indians were glad that they had an occasion to indulge in the infernal joy of burning him at once. Soon after their supper, which they shared with their victim, they drove the stake into the ground, piled np the fagots in a circle around it, stripped and blackened the prisoner, tied him to the stake, and applied the torch. It was a slow fire. The war-whoop then thrilled throug^h the dark surrounding forest like the chorus of a band of infernal s])irits escaped from pandemonium, and the scalp dance was struck up by those demons in human shape, who for hours encircled their victim, brandishing their tomahawks and war clubs, and venting their execrations upon the helpless sufferer, who died about midnight from the effects of the slow heat. As soon as he fell upon the ground, the Indian who first discovered HISTORY OF INniANA. 49 liim m the woods that evening sprang in, sunk his tomahawk into his skull above the ear, and with liis knife stripped oflF the scalp, which he bore back with him to the town as a trophy, and which was tauntingly thrust into the faces of Rue and Holman, with the question, " Can you smell the fire on the scalp of your red-headed friend? We cooked him and left him for the wolves to make a breakfast upon; that is the way we serve runaway prisoners." After a march of three days more, the prisoners, Rue and Hol- man, had to run the gauntlets again, and barely got through with their lives. It was decided that they should both be burned at the stake that night, though this decision was far from being unani- mous. The necessary preparations were made, dry sticks and brush were gathered and piled around two stakes, the faces and hands of the doomed men were blackened in the customary manner, and as the evening approached the poor wretches sat look- ing upon the setting sun for the last time. An unusual excitement was manifest in a number of chiefs who still lingered about the council-house. At a pause in the contention, a noble-looking In- dian approached the prisoners, and after speaking a few words to the guards, took Holman by the hand, lifted him to his feet, cut the cords that bound him to his fellow prisoners, removed the black from his face and hands, put his hand kindly upon his head and said : " I adopt you as my son, to fill the place of the one I have lately buried ; you are now a kinsman of Logan, the white man's friend, as he has been called, but who has lately proven himself to be a terrible avenger of the wrongs inflicted upon him by the bloody Cresap and his men." With evident reluctance, Girty interpreted this to Hol- man, who was thus unexpectedly freed. But the preparations for the burning of Rue went on. Holman and Rue embraced each other most affectionately, with a sorrow too deep for description. Rue was then tied to one of the stakes; but the general contention among the Indians had not ceased. Just as the lighted fagots were about to be applied to the dry brush piled around the devoted youth, a tall, active young Shawnee, a son of the victim's captor, sprang into the ring, and cutting the cords which bound him to the stake, led him out amidst the deafening plaudits of a part of the crowd and the execrations of the rest. Re- gardless of threats, he caused water to be brought and the black to be washed from the face and hands of the prisoner, whose clothes were then returned to him, when the young brave said : " I take this young man to be my brother, in the place of one I lately lost; 50 HISTORY OF INDIANA. I loved that brother well; I will love this one, too; my old mother will be glad when I tell her that I have brought her a son, in place of the dear departed one. We want no more victims. The burning of Red-head [Hinton] ought to satisfy us. These innocent j'oung men do not merit such cruel fate; I would rather die myself than see this adopted brother burned at the stake." A loud shout of approbation showed that the young Shawnee had triumphed, though dissension was manifest among the various tribes afterward. Some of them abandoned their trip to Detroit, others retarded to Wa-puc-ca-nat-ta, a few turned toward the Mis- sissinewa and the Wabash towns, while a portion continued to De- troit. Holraan was taken back to Wa-puc-ca-nat ta, where he re- mained most of the time of his captivity. Rue was taken first to the Mississinewa, then to the Wabash towns. Two years of his eventful captivity were spent in the region of the Wabash and Illi- nois rivers, but the last few months at Detroit; was in captivity altogether about three years and a half. Rue effected his escape in the following manner: During one of the drunken revels of the Indians near Detroit one of them lost a purse of $90; various tribes were suspected of feloniously keeping the treasure, and much ugly speculation was indulged in as to who was the thief. At length a prophet of a tribe that was not suspected was called to divine the mystery. He spread sand over a green deer-skin, watched it awhile and performed various manipulations, and professed to see that the money had been stolen and carried away by a tribe entirely different from any that had been suspicioned; but he was shrewd enough not to announce who the thief was or the tribe he belonged to, lest a war might arise. His decision quieted the belligerent uprisings threatened by the excited Indians. Rue and two other prisoners saw this display of the prophet's skill and concluded to interrogate hirasoou concerning their fami- lies at home. The opportunity occurred in a few days, and the In- dian seer actually astonished Rue with the accuracy with which he described his family, and added, "You all intend to make your escape, and you will effect it soon. You will meet with many trials and hardshipsin passing over so wild a district of country, inhabited by so many hostile nations of Indians. You will almost starve to death ; but about the time you have given up all hope of finding game to sustain you in your famished condition, succor will come when you least expect it. The first game you will succeed in taking HISTORY OF INDIANA. 51 will be a male of some kind; after that you will have plenty of game and return home in safety." The prophet kept this matter a secret for the prisoners, and the latter in a few days set off upon their terrible journey, and had just such experience as the Indian prophet had foretold; they arrived home with their lives, but were pretty well worn out with the exposures and privations of a three weeks' journey. On the return of Holman's party of Indians to Wa-puc-ca-nat-ta,. much dissatisfaction existed in regard to the manner of his release from the sentence of condemnation pronounced against him by the council. Many were in favor of recalling the council and trying; him again, and this was finally agreed to. The young man was. again put upon trial for his life, with a strong probability of his being condemned to the stake. Both parties worked hard for vic- tory in the final vote, which eventually proved to give a majority of one for the prisoner's acquittal. While with the Indians, Holman saw them burn at the stake a Kentuckian named Richard Hogeland, who had been taken prisoner at the defeat of Col. Crawford. They commenced burning him at nine o'clock at night, and continued roasting him until ten o'clock the next day, before he expired. During his excruciating tortures he begged for some of them to end his life and sufferings with a gun or tomahawk. Finally his cruel tormentors promised they would^ and cut several deep gashes in his flesh with their tomahawks, and shoveled up hot ashes and embers and threw them into the gaping wounds. When he was dead they stripped off his scalp, cut him to pieces and burnt him to ashes, which they scattered through the town to expel the evil spirits from it. After a captivity of about three years and a half, Holman saw an opportunity of going on amission for the destitute Indians, namely, of going to Harrodsburg, Ky., where he had a rich uncle, from whom they could get what supplies they wanted. They let him go with a guard, but on arriving at Louisville, where Gen. Clark was in command, he was ransomed, and he reached home only three days after the arrival of Rue. Both these men lived to a good old age, terminating their lives at their home about two miles south ot Richmond, Ind. } EXPEDITIONS OF COL. GEORGE EOGERS CLARK. In the summer of 1778, Col. George Rogers Clark, a native of Albemarle county, Va., led a memorable expedition against the ancient French settlements about Kaskaskia and Post Vincennes. With respect to the magnitude of its design, the valor and perse- verance with which it was carried on, and the memorable results which were produced by it, this expedition stands without a parallel in the early annals of the valley of the Mississippi. That portion of the West called Kentucky was occupied by Henderson & Co., who pretended to own the land and who held it at a high price. Col. Clark wished to test the validity of their claim and adjust the government of the country so as to encourage immigration. He accordingly called a meeting of the citizens at Harrodstown, to assemble June 6, 1776, and consider the claims of the company and consult with reference to the interest of the country. He did not at first publish the exact aim of this movement, lest parties would be formed in advance and block the enterprise; also, if the object of the meeting were not announced beforehand, the curiosity of the people to know what was to be proposed would bring out a much greater attendance. The meeting was held on the day appointed, and delegates were (elected to treat with the government of Virginia, to see whether it would be best to become a county in that State and be protected by it, etc. Various delays on account of the remoteness of the white settlers from the older communities of Virginia and the hos- tility of Indians in every direction, prevented a consummation of this object until some time in 1778. The government of Virginia was friendly to Clark's enterprise to a certain extent, but claimed that they had not authority to do much more than to lend a little assistance for which payment should be made at some future time, as it was not certain whether Kentucky would become a part of Vir- ginia or not. Gov. Henry and a few gentlemen were individually «o hearty in favor of Clark's benevolent undertaking that they assisted him all they could. Accordingly Mr. Clark organized his expedition, keeping every particular secret lest powerful parties would form in the West against him. He took in stores at Pitts- (52) GEN. GEORGE ROGERS CLAKK HISTORY OF INDIANA. 55 burg and Wheeling, proceeded down the Ohio to the " Falls," where he took possession of an island of a about seven acres, and divided it among a small number of families, for whose protection he constructed some light fortifications. At this time Post Vin- cennes comprised about 400 militia, and it was a daring undertak- ing for Col. Clark, with his small force, to go up against it and Kas- kaskia, as he had plaimed. Indeed, some of his men, on hearing of his plan, deserted him. He conducted himself so as to gain the sympathy of the French, and through them also that of the Indians to some extent, as both these people were very bitter against the British, who had possession of the Lake Region. From the nature of the situation Clark concluded it was best to take Kaskaskia first. The fact that the people ^regarded him as a savage rebel, he regarded as really a good thing in his favor; for after the first victory he would show them so much unexpected lenity that they would rally to his standard. In this policy he was indeed successful. He arrested a few men and put them in irons. The priest of the village, accompanied by five or six aged citizens, waited on Clark and said that the inhabitants expected to be separ- ated, perhaps never to meet again, and they begged to be permitted to assemble in their church to take leave of each other. Clark mildly replied that he had nothing against their religion, that they might continue to assemble in their church, but not venture out of town, etc. Thus, by what has since been termed the "Rarey" method of taming horses, Clark showed them he had power over them but designed them no harm, and they readily took the oath of allegiance to Virginia. After Clark's arrival at Kaskaskia it was diflScult to induce the French settlers to accept the "Continental paper" introduced by him and his troops. Nor until Col. Vigo arrived there and guar- anteed its redemption would they receive it. Peltries and piastres formed the only currency, and Vigo found great diflSculty in ex- plaining Clark's financial arrangements. "Their commandants never made money," was the reply to Vigo's explanation of the policy of the old Dotainion. But notwithstanding the guarantees, the Continental paper fell very low in the market. Vigo had a trading establishment at Kaskaskia, where he sold coffee at one dollar a pound, and all the other necessaries of life at an equally reasonable price. The unsophisticated Frenchmen were generally asked in what kind of money they would pay their little bills. 56 HISTORT OF INDIANA. "Douleur," was the general reply; and as an authority on the sul> ject says, "It took about twenty Continental dollars to purchase a silver dollar's worth of coffee; and as the French word "douleur" sig- nifies grief or pain, perhaps no word either in the French or Eng- lish languages expressed the idea more correctly than the douleur for a Continental dollar. At any rate it was truly douleur to the Colonel, for he never received a single dollar in exchange for the large amount taken from him in order to sustain Clark's credit. Now, the post at Vincennes, defended by Fort Sackville, came next. The priest just mentioned, Mr. Gibault, was really friendly to " the American interest;" he had spiritual charge of the church at Vincennes, and he with several others were deputed to assemble the people there and authorize them to garrison their own fort like a free and independent people, etc. This plan had its desired effect, and the people took the oath of allegiance to the State of Virginia and became citizens of the United States. Their stvle of laneua^e and conduct changed to a better hue, and they surprised the numer- ous Indians in the vicinity by displaying anew flag and informing them that their old father, the King of France, was come to life again, and was mad at them for fighting the English; and they ad- vised them to make peace with the Americans as soon as they could, otherwise they might expect to make the land very bloody, etc. The Indians concluded they would have to fall in line, and they offered no resistance. Capt. Leonard Helm, an American, was left in charge of this post, and Clark began to turn his atten- tion to other points. But before leaving this section of the coun- try he made treaties of peace with the Indians ; this he did, how- ever, by a different method from what had always before been followed. By indirect methods he caused them to come to him, instead of going to them. He was convinced that inviting them to treaties was considered by them in a different manner from what the whites expected, and imputed them to fear, and that giving them great presents confirmed it. He accordingly established treaties with the Piankeshaws, Ouiatenons, Kickapoos, Illinois, Kaskaskias, Peorias and branches of some other tribes that inhab- ited the country between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi. Upon this the General Assembly of the State of Virginia declared all the citizens settled west of the Ohio organized into a county of that State, to be known as "Illinois" county; but before the pro- visions of the law could be carried into effect, Henry Hamilton, the British Lieutenant-Governor of Detroit, collected an army of abuut HISTORY OF INDIANA. 57 30 regulars, 50 French volunteers and 400 Indians, went down ami re-took the post Vincennes in December, 1778. No attempt wa.-; made by the population to defend the town. Capt. Helm and a man named Henry were the only Americans at the fort, the only members of the garrison. Capt. Helm was taken prisoner and a number of the French inhabitants disarmed. Col. Clark, hearing of the situation, determined to re-capture the place. He accordingly gathered together what force he could in this distant land, 170 men, and on the 5th of February, started from Kaskaskia and crossed the river of that name. The weather was very wet, and the low lands were pretty well covered with water. The march was difficult, and the Colonel bad to work'hard to keep his men in spirits. He suffered them to shoot game whenever they wished and eat it like Indian war-dancers, each company by turns inviting the others to their feasts, which was the case every night. Clark waded through water as much as any of them, and thus stimu- lated the men by his example. They reached the Little Vabash on the 13th, after suffering many and great hardships. Here a camp was formed, and without waiting to discuss plans for crossing the river, Clark ordered the men to construct a vessel, and pretended that crossing the stream would be only a piece of amusement, al- though inwardly he held a different opinion. The second day afterward a reconnoitering party was sent across the river, who returned and made an encouraging report. A scaf- folding was built on the opposite shore, upon which the baggage was placed as it was tediously ferried over, and the new camping ground was a nice half acre of dry land. There were many amuse- ments, indeed, in getting across the river, which put all the men ia high spirits. The succeeding two or three days they had to march through a great deal of water, having on the night of the 17th to encamp in the water, near the Big Wabash. At daybreak on the ISth they heard the signal gun at Vincennes, and at once commenced their march. Reaching the Wabash about two o'clock, they constructed rafts to cross the river on a boat-steal- ing expedition, but labored all day and night to no purpose. Ou the 19th they began to make a canoe, in which a second attempt to steal boats was made, but tliis expedition returned, reporting tliat there were two "large fires" within a mile of them. Clark sent a canoe down the river to meet the vessel that was supposed to be on her way up witli tliesup])iies, with orders to hasten forward day and night. This was their last hope, as their provisions were entirely 58 HISTORY OF INDIANA. gone, and starvation seemed to be hovering about them. The next day they commenced to make more canoes, when about noon the sentinel on the river brought a boat with five Frenchmen from the fort. From this party they learned that they were not as yet dis- covered. All the array crossed the river in two canoes the next day, and as Clark had determined to reach the town that night, he ordered his men to move forward. They plunged into the water sometimes to the neck, for over three miles. Without food, benumbed with cold, up to their waists in water, covered with broken ice, the men at one time mutinied and refused to march. All the persuasions of Clark had no effect upon the half-starved and half- frozen soldiers. In one company was a small drummer boy, and also a sergeant who stood six feet two inches in socks, and stout and athletic. He was devoted to Clark. The Gen- eral mounted the little drummer on the shoulders of the stalwart sergeant and ordered him to plunge into the water, half-frozen as it was; He did so, the little boy beating the charge from his lofty perch, while Clark, sword in hand, followed them, giving the com- mand as he threw aside the floating ice, " Forward." Elated and amused with the scene, the men promptly obeyed, holding their rifles above their heads, and in spite of all the obstacles they reached the high land in perfect safety. But for this and the ensuing days of this campaign we quote from Clark's account: " This last day's march through the water was far superior to any- thing the Frenchmen had any idea of. They were backward in speaking; said that the nearest land to us was a small league, a sugar camp on the bank of the river. A canoe was sent off and re- turned without finding that we could pass. I went in her myself and sounded the water and found it as deep as to my neck. I returned with a design to have the men transported on board the canoes to the sugar camp, which I knew would expend the whole day and en- suing night, as the vessels would pass slowly through the bushes. The loss of so much time to men half starved was a matter of con- sequence. I would have given now a great deal for a day's provis- -ion, or for one of our horses. I returned but slowly to the troops, giving myself time to think. On our arrival all ran to hear what was the report; every eye was fixed on me; I unfortunately spoke in a serious manner to one of the officers. The whole were alarmed without knowing what I said. I viewed their confusion for about one minute; I wiiispered to those near me to do as I did, immedi- ately ])Ut some water in my hand, poured on powder, blackened my HISTOUY OF INDIANA. ^" face, gave the war-whoop, and marched into the water without say- ing a word. The party gazed and fell in, one after another without saying a word, like a flock of sheep. I ordered tliose near me to begin'a favorite song of theirs; it soon passed through the line, and the whole went on cheerfully. " I now intended to have them transported across the deepest part of the water; but when about waist-deep, one of the men in- formed me that he thought he felt a path; we examined and found it so, and concluded that it kept on the highest ground, which it did, and by taking pains to follow it, we got to the sugar camp with no difficulty, where there was about half an acre of dry ground,— at least ground not under water, and there we took up our lodging. ^ » * * * * * " The night had been colder than any we had had, and the ice in the morning was one-half or three-quarters of an inch thick in still water; the morning was the finest. A little after sunrise I lectured the whole; what I said to them I forget, but I concluded by in- forming them that passing the plain then in full view, and reaching the opposite woods would put an end to their fatigue; that in a few ho'urs they would have a sight of their long wished-for object; and immediately stepped into the water without waiting lor any reply. A huzza took place. As we generally marched through the water in a line, before the third man entered, I called to Majo^Bowman, ordering him to fall in the rear of the 25 men, and put to death any man who refused to march. This met with a cry of approbation, and on we went. Getting about the middle of the plain, the water about mid-deep, I found myself sensibly faihng; and as there were no trees nor bushes for the men to support them- selves by, I feared that many of the weak would be drowned. I or- dered the canoes to make the land, discharge their loading, and play backward and forward with all diligence and pick up the men; and to encourage the party, sent some of the strongest men forward, with orders when they got to a certain distance, to pass the word back that the water was getting shallow, and when getting near the woods, to cry out land. This stratagem had its desired effect; the men e'xerted themselves almost beyond their abilities, the weak holding by the stronger. The water, however, did not become shallower, but continued deepening. Getting to the woods where the men expected land, the water was up to my shoulders; but gaining the woods was of great consequence; all the low men and weakly hung to the trees and floated on the old logs until they were 60 illSKlKY OF INDIANA. taken off by tlie cunues; tlie strong and tall got ashore and built tires. Many would reach the shore and fall with their bodies half in the water, not being able to support themselves without it. "This was a dry and delightful spot of ground of about ten acres. Fortunately, as if designed by Providence, a canoe of Indian squaws and children was coining up to town, and took through this part of the plain as a nigh way; it was discovered by our canoe-raen as they were out after the other men. They gave chase and took the Indian canoe, on board of which was nearly half a quarter of buffalo, some corn, tallow, kettles, etc. This was an invaluable prize. Broth was immediately made and served out, especially to the weakly; nearly all of us got a little; but a great many gave their part to the weakly, saying something cheering to their comrades. By the afternoon, this refreshment and fine weather had greatly invigor- ated the whole party. " Crossing a narrow and deep lake in the canoes, and marching some distance, we came to a copse of timber called ' Warrior's Island.' We were now in full view of the fort and town; it was about two miles distant, with not a shrub intervening. Everyman now feasted his eyes and forgot that he had suffered anything, say- ing that all which had passed was owing to good polic}', and noth- ing but what a man could bear, and that a soldier had no right to think, passing from one extreme to the other, — which is common in such cases. And now stratagem was necessary. The plain between us and the town was not a perfect level; the sunken grounds were covered with water full of ducks. We observed several men within ahalf a mile of us shooting ducks, and sent out some of our active young Frenchmen to take one of these men prisoners without alarming the rest, which they did. The information we got from this person was similar to that which we got from those taken on the river, except that of the British having that evening completed the wall of the fort, and that there were a great many Indians in town. "Our situation was now critical. No possibility of retreat in case of defeat, and in full view of a town containing at this time more than 600 men, troops, inhabitants and Indians. The crew of the galley, though not 50 men, would have been now a re-enforcement of immense magnitude to our little army, if I may so call it, but we would not think of tliem. We were now in the situation that I had labored to get ourselves in. The idea of being made prisoner was foreign to almost every man, as they expected notliing but tor- ture from the savages if they fell into their hands. Our fate was HISTOEY OF INDIANA. 61 now to be determined, probably in a few lioiirs; we knew that nothing but the most daring conduct would insure success; I knew also that a number of the inhabitants wished us well. This was a favorable circumstance; and as there was but little prooabilitj of our remaining until dark undiscovered, I determined to begin opera- tions immediately, and therefore wrote the following placard to the inhabitants: To the Inhabitants of Post Vincennes: Gentlemen: — Being now within two miles of your village with my army, determined to take your fort this night, and not being willing to surprise you, I take this method to request such of you as are true citizens and willing to enjoy the liberty I bring you, to remain still in your houses; and those, if any there be, that are friends to the king, will instantly repair to the fort and join the hair-buyer general and fight like men; and if any such as do not go to the fort shall be discovered afterward, they may depend on severe punishment. On the contrary, those wlio are true friends to liberty may depend on being well treated; and I once more request them to keep out of the streets; for everyone I find in arms on ray arrival I shall treat as an enemy. [Signed] G. R. Clark. " I had various ideas on the results of this letter. I knew it could do us no damage, but that it would cause the lukewarm to be decided, and encourage our friends and astonish our enemies. We anxiously viewed this messenger until he entered the town, and in a few minutes we discovered by our glasses some stir in every street we could penetrate, and great numbers running or riding out into the commons, we supposed to view us, which was the case. But what surprised us was that nothing had yet happened that had the appearance of the garrison being alarmed, — neither gun nor drum. We began to suppose that the information we got from our prisoners was false, and that the enemy had already knew of us and were prepared. A little before sunset we displayed ourselves in full view of the town, — crowds gazing at us. We were plunging ourselves into certain destruction or success ; there was no midway thought of. We had but little to say to our men, e.\cept inculcat- ing an idea of the necessity of obedience, etc. We moved on slowly in full view of the town ; but as it was a point of some con- sequence to us to make ourselves appear formidable, we, in leaving the covert we were in, marched and counter- marched in such a manner that we a]ipeared numerous. Our colors were displayed to the best advantage; and as the low plain we marched through was 62 HISTORY OK INDIANA. not a perfect level, but had frequent risings in it, of Tor 8 higher than the common level, which was covered with water; and as these risings generally run in an oblique direction to the town,, we took the advantage of one of them, marching through the water by it, which completely prevented our being numbered. We gained the heights back of the town. As there were as yet no hostile appearance, we were impatient to have the cause unriddled. Lieut. Bay ley was ordered with 14 men to march and fire on the fort; the main body moved in a different direction and took possession of the strongest part of the town." Clark then sent a written order to Hamilton commanding him to surrender immediately or he would be treated as a murderer; Hamilton replied that he and his garrison were not disposed to be awed into any action unworthy of British sub- jects. After one hour more of fighting, Hamilton proposed a truce of three days for conference, on condition that each side cease all defensive work; Clark rejoined that he would "not agree to any terms other than Mr. Hamilton surrendering himself and garrison prisoners at discretion," and added that if he, Hamil- ton, wished to talk with him he could meet him immediately at the church with Capt. Helm. In less than an hour Clark dictated the terms of surrender, Feb. 24, 1779. Hamilton agreed to the total surrender because, as he there claimed in writing, he was too far from aid from his own government, and because of the " unanimity" of his oificers in the surrender, and his "confidence in a generous enemy." "Of this expedition, of its results, of its importance, of the merits of those engaged in it, of their bravery, their skill, of their prudence, of their success, a volume would not more than suffice for the details. Suflice it to say that in my opinion, and I have accurately and criti- cally weighed and examined all the results produced by the con- tests in which we were engaged during the Revolutionary war, that for bravery, for hardships endured, for skill and consummate tact and prudence on the part of the commander, obedience, dis- cipline and love of country on the part of his followers, for the immense benefits acquired, and signal advantages obtained by it for the whole union, it was second to no enterprise undertaken dur- ing that struggle. I might add, second to no undertaking in an- cient or modern warfare. The whole credit of this conquest be- longs to two men; Gen. George Rogers Clark and Col. Francis Vigo. And when we consider that by it the whole territory now >, HISTORY OF INDIANA. 63 covered by the three great states of Indiana, Illinois and Michigan was added to the union, and so admitted to be by the British commis- sioners at the preliminaries to the treaty of peace in 1783; (and but for this very conquest, the boundaries of our territories west would have been the Ohio instead of the Mississippi, and so acknowledged by both our commissioners and the British at that conference;) a territory embracing upward of 2,000,000 people, the human mind is lost in the contemplation of its effects; and we can but wonder that a force of 170 men, the whole number of Clark's troops, should by this single action have produced such important results." [John Law. The next day Clark sent a detachment of 80 men up the river Wabash to intercept some boats which were laden with provisions and goods from Detroit. This force was placed under command of Capt. Helm, Major Bosseron and Major Legras, and they proceeded up the river, in three armed boats, about 120 miles, when the British boats, about seven in number, were surprised and captured without firing a gun. These boats, which had on board about $50,000 worth of goods and provisions, were manned by about 40 men, among whom was Philip Dejean, a magistrate of Detroit. The provisions were taken for the public, and distributed among the soldiery. Having organized a military government at Vincennes and appointed Capt. Helm commandant of the town. Col. Clark return- ed in the vessel to Kaskaskia, where he was joined by reinforce- ments from Kentucky under Capt. George. Meanwhile, a party of traders who were going to the falls, were killed and plundered by the Delawares of White River; the news of this disaster having reached Clark, he sent a dispatch to Capt. Helm ordering him to make war on the Delawares and use every means in his power to destroy them; to show no mercy to the men, but to save the women and children. This order was executed without dela}'. Their camps were attacked in every quarter where they could be found. Many fell, and others were carried to Post Vincennes and put to death. The surviving Delawares at once pleaded for mercy and appeared anxious to make some atonement for their bad con- duct. To these overtures Capt. Helm replied that Col. Clark, the " Big Knife," had ordered the war, and that he had no power to lay down the hatchet, but that he would suspend hostilities until a messenger could be sent to Kaskaskia. This was done, and the crafty Colonel, well understanding the Indian character, sent a 64 HISTOKV OF INDIANA. message lo the Delawares, telling them that he would not accept their friendship or treat with them for peace; but that if they could get some of the neighboring tribes to become responsible for their future conduct, he would discontinue the war and spare their lives; otherwise they must all perish. Accordingly a council was called of all the Indians in the neigh- borhood, and Clark's answer was read to the assembly. After due deliberation the Piankeshaws took on themselves to answer for the future good conduct of the Delawares, and the " Grand Door " in a long speech denounced their base conduct. This ended the war with the Delawares and secured the respect of the neighboring tribes Clark's attention was next turiied to the British post at Detroit, but being unable to obtain suiBcient troops he abandoned the en- terprise. Clark's ingenious ruse against the Indians. Tradition says that when Clark captured Hamilton and his gar- rison at Fort Sackville, he took possession of the fort and kept the British flag flying, dressed his sentinels with the nniform of the British soldiery, and let everything about the premises remain as they were, so that when the Indians sympathizing with the Bi-itish arrived they would walk right into the citadel, into the jaws of death. His success was perfect. Sullen and silent, with the scalp- lock of his victims hanging at his girdle, and in full expectation of his reward from Hamilton, the unwary savage, unconscious of danger and wholly ignorant of the change that had just been effected in his absence, passed the supposed British sentry at the gate of the fort unmolested and unchallenged; but as soon as in, a volley from the rifles of a platoon of Clark's men, drawn up and awaiting his coming, pierced their hearts and sent the unconscious savage, reek- ing with murder, to that tribunal to which he had so frequently, by order of the hair-buyer general, sent his American captives, from the infant in the cradle to the grandfather of the family, tot- tering with age and infirmity. It was a just retribution, and few men but Clark would have planned such a ruse or carried it out successfully. It is reported that fifty Indians met this fate within the fort; and probably Hamilton, a prisoner there, witnessed it all SUBSEQUENT CAREER OF HAMILTON. Henry Hamilton, who had acted as Lieutenant and Governor of the British possessions under Sir George Oarleton, was sent for- HISTOKY OF INDIAXA. 65 "Ward, with two other prisoners of war, Dejeaii and LaMothe, to Williamsburg, Va., early in June following, 1779. Proclamations, in his own handwriting, were found, in which he had offered a specific sum for every American scalp brought into the camp, either by his own troops or his allies, the Indians; and from this he was denominated the "hair-buyer General." This and much other tes- timony of living witnesses at the time, all showed what a savage ho was. Tlioraas Jefferson, then Governor of Virginia, being made aware of the inhumanity of this wretch, concluded to resort to a little retaliation by way of closer confinement. Accordingly he ordered that these three prisoners be put in irons, confined in a dungeon, deprived of the use of pen, ink and paper, and be ex- cluded from all conversation except with their keeper. Major General Phillips, a British officer out on parole in the vicinity of Charlottesville, where the prisoners now were, in closer confine- ment, remonstrated, and President Washington, while approving of Jefferson's course, requested a mitigation of the severe order, lest the British be goaded to desperate measures. Soon afterward Hamilton was released on parole, and he subse- quently appeared in Canada, still acting as if he had jurisdiction in the United States. GIBAULT . The faithful, self-sacrificing and patriotic services of Father Pierre Gibault in behalf of the Americans require a special notice of him in this connection. He was the parish priest at Vincennes, as well as at Kaskaskia. He was, at an early period, a Jesuit mis- sionary to the Illinois. Had it not been for the infiuence of this man, Clark could not have obtained the influence of the citizens at either place. He gave all his property, to the value of 1,500 Spanish milled dollars, to the support of Col. Clark's troops, and never re- ceived a single dollar in return. So far as the records inform lis, he was given 1,500 Continental paper dollars, which proved in the end entirely valueless. He modestly petitioned from the Govern- ment a small allowance of land at Cahokia, but we find no account of his ever receiving it. He was dependent upon the public in his older days, and in 1790 Winthrop Sargent "conceded" to him a lot of about "14 toises, one side to Mr. Millet, another to Mr. Vaudrsy, and to two streets," — a vague description of land. 66 HISTORY OF INDIANA. VIGO. Col. Francis Vigo was born in Mondovi, in the kingdom of Sar- dinia, in 1747. He left his parents and guardians at a very early age, and enlisted in a Spanish regiment as a soldier. The regiment was ordered to Havana, and a detachment of it subsequently to New Orleans, then a Spanish post; Col. Vigo accompanied this de- tachment. But he left the army and engaged in trading with the Indians on the Arkansas and its tributaries. Next he settled at St. Louis, also a Spanish post, where he became closely connected, both in friendship and business, with the Governor of Upper Louisiana, then residing at the same place. This friendship he enjoyed, though he could only write his name; and we have many circumstantial evidences that he was a man of high'intelligence, honor, purity of heart, and ability. Here he was living when Clark captured Kas- kaskia, and was extensively engaged in trading up the Missouri. A Spaniard by birth and allegiance, he was under no obligation to assist the Americans. Spain was at peace with Great Britain, and any interference by her citizens was a breach of neutrality, and subjected an individual, especially one of the high character and standing of Col. Vigo, to all the contumely, loss and vengeance which British power could inflict. But Col. Vigo did not falter. With an innate love of liberty, an attachment to Republican prin- ciples, and an ardent sympathy for an oppressed people struggling for their rights, he overlooked all personal consequences, and as soon as he learned of Clark's arrival at Kaskaskia, he crossed the line and went to Clark and tendered him his means and influence, both of which were joyfully accepted. Knowing Col. Vigo's influence with the ancient inhabitants of the country, and desirous of obtaining some information from Vincennes, from which he had not heard for several months, Col. Clark proposed to him that he might go to that place and learn the actual state of affairs. Vigo went without hesitation, but on the Embarrass river he was seized by a party of Indians, plundered of all he possessed, and brought a prisoner before Hamilton, then in pos- session of the post, which he had a short time previously captured, holding Capt. Helm a prisoner of war. Being a Spanish subject, and consequently a non-combatant. Gov. Hamilton, although he strongly suspected the motives of the visit, dared not confine him, but admitted him to parole, on the single condition that he should daily report himself at the fort. But Hamilton was embar- IlIaTORV OF INDIANA. 67 rassed by his detention, being besieged by tlie inhabitants of the town, who loved Vigo and threatened to withdraw their support from the garrison if he would not release him. Father Gibault was the chief pleader for Vigo's release. Hamilton finally yielded, on con- dition that he, Vigo, would do no injury to the British interests on his way to St. Louis. He went to St. Louis, sure enougli, doing no injury to British interests, but immediately returned to Kaskaskia and reported to Clark in detail all he had learned at Vincennes, without which knowledge Clark would have been unable to ac- complish his famous expedition to that post with final triumph. The redemption of this country from the British is due as much, probably, to Col. Vigo as Col. Clark. GOVERNMENT OF THE NORTHWEST. Col. John Todd, Lieutenant for the county of Illinois, in the spring of 1779 visited the old settlements at Vincennes and Kas- kaskia, and organized temporary civil governments in nearly all the settlements west of the Ohio. Previous to this, however, Clark had established a military government atKaskaskia and Vincennes, appointed commandants in both places and taken up his headquar- ters at the falls of the Oliio, where he could watch the operations of the enemy and save the frontier settlements from the depreda- tions of Indian warfare. On reaching the settlements, Col. Todd issued a proclamation regulating the settlement of unoccupied lands and requiring the presentation of all claims to the lands set- tled, as the number of adventurers who would shortly overrun the country would be serious. He also organized a Court of civil and criminal jurisdiction at Vincennes, in the mouth of June, 1779. This Court was composed of several magistrates and presided over by Col. J. M. P. Legras, who had been appointed commandant at Vincennes. Acting from the precedents established b}' the early French commandants in the West, this Court began to grant tracts of land to the French and American inhabitants; and to the year 1783, it had granted to different parties about 26,000 acres of land; 22,000 more was granted in this manner by 17S7, when the practice was prohibited by Gen. Harmer. These tracts varied in size from a house lot to 500 acres. Besides this loose business, the Court entered into a stupendous speculation, one not altogether creditable to its honor and dignity. The commandant and the magistrates under him suddenly adopted the opinion that they were iiiveslP'i 68 HISTORY OF 1^•DIANA. witli the autlioritj to dispose of the whole of that large region which in 18i2 liad been granted by the Piankeshaws to the French inhabitants of Vincennes. Accordingly a very convenient arrange- ment was entered into by which the whole tract of country men- tioned was to be divided between the members of the honorable Court. A record was made to that effect, and in order to gloss over the steal, each member took pains to be absent from Court on the day that the order was made in his favor. In the fall of 1780 La Balme, a Frenchman, made an attempt to capture the British garrison of Detroit by leading an expedition against it from Kaskaskia. At the head of 30 men he marched to Vincennes, where his force was slightly increased. From this place he proceeded to the British trading post at the head of the Maumee, where Fort Wa^me now stands, plundered the British traders and Indians and then retired. While encamped on the bank of a small stream on his retreat, he was attacked by a band of Miamis, a number of his men were killed, and his expedition against Detroit was ruined. In this manner border war continued between Americans and ■their enemies, with varying victory, until 17S3, when the treaty of Paris was concluded, resulting in the establishment of the inde- pendence of the United States. Up to this time the territory now included in Indiana belonged by conquest to the State of Virginia; but in January, 1783, the General Assembly of that State resolved "to cede to the Congress of the United States all the territory north- west of the Ohio. The conditions offered by Virginia were accepted by Congress Dec. 20, that year, and early in 17S4 the transfer was completed. In 1783 Virginia had platted the town of 'Clarksville, at the falls of the Ohio. The deed of cession provided that the territory should be laid out into States, containing a suita- ble extent of territory not less than 100 nor more than 150 miles square, or as near thereto as circumstances would permit; aud that the States so formed shall be distinct Republican States and admitted members of the Federal Union, having the same rights of sovereignty, freedom and independence as the other States. The other conditions of the deed were as follows: That the necessary and reasonable expenses incurred by Virginia in subduing any British posts, or in maintaining forts and garrisons within and for the defense, or in acquiring any part of the territory so ceded or relinquished, shall be fully reimbursed by the United States; that the French and Canadian inhabitants and other settlers of the Kas- HISTORY OF INDIANA. (i9 kaskia, Post Vincennes and the neighboring villages who have pro- fessed themselves citizens of Virginia, shall have their titles and possessions confirmed to them, and be protected in the enjoyment of their rights and privileges; th;it a quantit}' not exceeding 150,- 000 acres of land, promised by Virginia, shall be allowed and granted to the then Colonel, now General, George Rogers Clark, and to the officers and soldiers of his regiment, who marched with him when the posts and of Kaskaskia and Vincennes were reduced, and to the officers and soldiers that have been since incorporated into the said regiment, to be laid off in one tract, the length o' which not to exceed double the breadth, in such a place on the northwest side of the Ohio as a majority of the officers shall choose, and to be afterward divided among the officers and soldiers in due proportion according to the laws of Virginia; that in case the quantity of good lands on the southeast side of the Ohio, upon the waters of Cumberland river, and between Green river and Ten. nessee river, which have been reserved by law for the Virginia troops upon Continental establishment, should, from the North Carolina line, bearing in further upon the Cumberland lands than was expected, prove insufficient for their legal bounties, the defi- ciency shall be made up to the said troops in good lands to be laid off between the rivers Scioto and Little Miami, on tlie northwest side of the river Ohio, in such proportions as have been engaged to them by the laws of Virginia; that all the lands within tlie ter- ritory so ceded to the United States, and not reserved for or appro- priated to any of the before-mentioned purposes, or disposed of in bounties to the officers and soldiers of the American army, shall be considered as a common fund for the use and benefit of sucli of the United States as have become, or shall become, members of the confederation or federal alliance of the said States, Virginia included, according to their usual respective proportions in the general charge and expenditure, and shall be faithfully and bona fide dis- posed of for that purpose and for no other use or purpose whatever. After the above deed of cession had been accepted by Congress, in the spring of 178-t, the matter of the future government of the territory was referred to a committee consisting of Messrs. Jeffer- son of Virginia, Chase of Maryland and Howell of Rhode Island, which committee reported an ordinance for its government, provid- ing, among other things, that slavery should not exist in said terri- tory after 1800, except as punishment of criminals; but this article of the ordinance was rejected, and an ordinance for the temporary 70 HISTORY OF INDIANA. government of the county was adopted. In 1785 laws were passed hj Congress for the disposition of lands in the territory and pro- liibiting the settlement of unappropriated lands by reckless specu- lators. But human passion is ever strong enough to evade the law to some extent, and large associations, representing considerable means, were formed for the purpose of monopolizing the land busi- ness. Millions of acres were sold at one time by Congress to asso- ciations on the installment plan, and so far as the Indian titles could be extinguished, the work of settling and improving the lands was pushed rapidly forward. ORDINANCE OF 1787. This ordinance has a marvelous and interesting history. Con- siderable controversy has been indulged in as to who is entitled to the credit for framing it. This belongs, undoubtedly, to Nathan Dane; and to Rufus King and Timothy Pickering belong the credit for suggesting the proviso contained in it against slavery, and also for aids to religion and knowledge, and for assuring for- ever the common use, without charge, of the great national high- ways of the Mississippi, the St. Lawrence and their tributaries to all the citizens of the United States. To Thomas Jefferson is also due much credit, as some features of this ordinance were embraced in his ordinance of 1781. But the part taken by each in the long, laborious and eventful struggle which had so glorious a consum- mation in the ordinance, consecrating forever, by one imprescript- ible and unchangeable monument, the very heart of our country to Freedom, Knowledge, and Union, will forever honor the names ot those illustrious statesmen. Mr. Jefferson had vainly tried to secure a system of government lor the Northwestern territory. He was an emancipationist and lavored the exclusion of slavery from the territory, but the South voted him down every time he proposed a measure of this nature. In 1787, as late as July 10, an organizing act without the anti- slavery clause was pending. This concession to the South was expected to carry it. Congress was in session in New York. On July 5, Rev. Mauasseh Cutler, of Massachusetts, came into New York to lobby on the Northwestern territory. Everything seemed to fall into his hands. Events were ripe. The state of the public credit, the growing of Southern prejudice, the basis of his mission, his personal character, all combined to complete one of those suddea HISTORY OK INDIANA. 71 and marvelous revolutions of public sentiment that once in five or ten centuries are seen to sweep over a country like the breath of the Almighty. Cutler was a graduate of Yale. He had studied and taken de- grees in the three learned professions, medicine, law, and divinity. Ho had published a scientific examination of the plants of New Eui^land. As a scientist in America his name stood second only to that of Franklin. He was a courtly gentleman of the old style, a man of commanding presence and of inviting face. The Southern members said they had never seen such a gentleman in the North. He came representing a Massachusetts company that desired to purchase a tract of land, now included in Ohio, for the purpose of planting a colony. It was a speculation. Government money was worth eighteen cents on the dollar. This company had collected enough to purchase 1, .500,000 acres of land. Other speculators in New York made Dr. Cutler their agent, which enabled him to represent a demand for 5,500,000 acres. As this would reduce the national debt, and Jefierson's policy was to provide for the public credit, it presented a good opportunity to do something. Massachusetts then owned the territory of Maine, which she was crowding on the market. She was opposed to opening the North- western region. This fired the zeal of Virginia. The South caught the inspiration, and all exalted Dr. Cutler. The entire South ral. lied around him. Massachusetts could not vote against him, be- cause many of the constuitents of her members were interested personally in the Western speculation. Thus Cutler, making friends in the South, and doubtless using all the arts of the lobby, was enabled to command the situation. True to deeper convic- tions, he dictated one of the most compact and finished documentp of wise statesmanship that has ever adorned anj' human law book. He borrowed from Jefferson the term "Articles of Compact," which, preceding the federal constitution, rose into the most sacred char- acter. He then followed very closely the constitution of Massa- chusetts, adopted three years before. Its most prominent points were: 1. The exclusion of slavery from the territory forever. 2. Provision for public schof)ls, giving one township for a semi- nary and every section numbered 10 in each township; that is, one thirty-sixth of all the land for public schools. 3. A provision prohibiting the adoption of any constitution or the enactment of any law that should nullify pre-existing contracts. 72 HISTOEY OF INDIANA. Be it forever remembered that this compact declared that " re- ligion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good govern- ment and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of edu- cation shall always be encouraged." Dr. Cutler planted himself on this platform and would not yield. Giving his unqualified dec- laration that it was that or nothing, — that unless they could make the land desirable they did not want it, — he took his horse and buggy and started for the constitutional convention at Philadelphia. On July 13, 17S7, the bill was put upon its passage, and was unani- mously adopted. Thus the great States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, a vast empire, were consecrated to free dom, intelligence, and morality. Thus the great heart of the nation was prepared to save the union of States, for it was this act that waa the salvation of the republic and the destruction of slavery. Soon the South saw their great blunder and tried to have the compact repealed. In 1803 Congress referred it to a committee, of which John Randolph was chairman. He reported that this ordinance was a compact and opposed repeal. Thus it stood, a rock in the way of the on-rushing sea of slavery. The " Northwestern Territory " included of course what is now the State of Indiana; and Oct 5, 1787, Maj. Geu. Arthur St. Clair was elected by Congress Governor of this territory. Upon commencing the duties of his office he was instructed to ascertain the real temper of the Indians and do all in his power to remove the causes for controversy between them and the United States, and to effect the extinguishment of Indian titles to all the land possible. The Governor took up quarters in the new settlement of Marietta, Ohio, where he immediately began the organization of the government of the territory. The first session of the General Court of the new territory was held at that place in 1788, the Judges being Samuel H. Parsons, James M. Varnum and John C. Symmes, but under the ordinance Gov. St. Clair was President of the Court. After the first session, and after the necessary laws for government were adopted, Gov. St. Clair, accompanied by the Judges, visited Kaskaskia for the purpose of organizing a civil gov- ernment there. Full instructions had been sent to Maj. Hamtramck, commandant at Vincennes, to ascertain the exact feeling and temper of the Indian tribes of the Wabash. These instructions were ac- companied by speeches to each of the tribes. A Frenchman named Antoine Gamelin was dispatched with these messages April 5, 1790, who visited nearly all the tribes on the Wabash, St. Joseph and St. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 73^ Mary's rivers, but was coldly received; most of the chiefs being dissatisfied with the policy of the Americans toward them, and prejudiced through English misrepresentation. Full accounts of his adventures among the tribes reached Gov. St. Clair at Kaskas- kia in June, 1790. Being satisfied that there was no prospect of effecting a general peace with the Indians of Indiana, he resolved to visit Gen. Harmar at his head(juarters at Fort Washington and consult with him on the means of carrying an expedition against the hostile Indians; but before leaving he intrusted Winthrop Sargent, the Secretary of the Territory, with the execution of the resolutions of Congress regarding the lands and settlers on the Wabash. He directed that ofiicer to proceed to Vincennes, lay out a county there, establish the militia and appoint the necessary civil and military officers. Accordingly Mr. Sargent went to Vin- cennes and organized Camp Knox, appointed the officers, and noti- fied the inhabitants to present their claims to lands. In establish- ing these claims the settlers found great difficulty, and concerning this matter the Secretary in his report to the President wrote as follows: " Although the lands and lots which were awarded to the inhabi- tants appeared from very good oral testimony to belong to those persons to whom they were awarded, either by original grants, pur- chase or inheritance, yet there was scarcely one case in twenty where the title was complete, owing to the desultory manner in which public business had been transacted and some other unfor- tunate causes. The original concessions by the French and British commandants were generally made upon a small scrap of paper, which it has been customary to lodge in the notary's office, who has seldom kept any book of record, but committed the most im- portant land concerns to loose sheets, which in process of time have come into possession of persons that have fraudulently de- stroyed them; or, unacquainted with their consequence, innocently lost or trifled them away. By French usage they are considered family inheritances, and often descend to women and children. In one instance, and during the government of St. Auge here, a royal notary ran off with all the public papers in his possession, as by a certificate produced to me. And I am very sorry further to observe that in the office of Mr. Le Grand, which continued from 1777 to 1787, and where should have been the vouchers for important land transactions, the records have been so falsified, and there is such gross fraud and forgery, as to invalidate all evidence and informa- tion which I might have otherwise acquired from his papers." 74 HISTORY OF INDIANA. Mr. Sargent say.s there were about 150 French families at Yin- cennes in 1790. The heads of all these families had been at some time vested with certain titles to a portion of the soil; and while the Secretary was busy in straightening out these claims, he re- ceived a petition signed by 80 Americans, asking for the confirma- tion of grants of land ceded by the Coart organized by Col. John Todd under the authority of Virginia. With reference to this cause, Congress, March 3, 1791, empowered the Territorial Governor, in cases where land had been actually improved and cultivated under a supposed grant for the same, to confirm to the persons who made such improvements the lands supposed to have been granted, not, however, exceeding the quantity of iOO acres to any one per- son. LIQUOR AND GAMING LAWS. The General Court in the summer of 1790, Acting Governor Sargent presiding, passed the following laws with reference to vending liquor among the Indians and others, and with reference to games of chance: 1. An act to prohibit the giving or selling intoxicating liquors to Indians residing in or coming into the Territory of the United States northwest of the river Ohio, and for preventing foreigners from trading with Indians therein. 2. An act prohibiting the sale of spirituous or other intoxicat- ing liquors to soldiers in the service of the United States, being within ten miles of any military post in the territory; and to pre- vent the selling or pawning of arms, ammunition, clothing or accoutrements. 3. An act prohibiting every species of gaming for money or property, and for making void contracts and payments made in consequence thereof, and for restraining the disorderly practice of discharging arms at certain hours and places. Winthrop Sargent's administration was highly eulogized by the citizens at Vincennes, in a testimonial drawn up and signed by a committee of officers. He had conducted the investigation and settlement of land claims to the entire satisfaction of the residents, had upheld the principles of free government in keeping with the animus of the American Revolution, and had established in good order the machinery of a good and wise government. In the same address Major Hamtramck also received a fair share of praise for his judicious management of affairs. MILITARY HISTORY 1790-1800. EXPEDITIONS OF HARMiR, SCOTT AND WILKINSON. Gov. St. Clair, on his arrival at Fort Washington from Kas- kaskia, had a long conversation with Gen. Ilarinar, and concluded to send a powerful force to chastise the savages about the head- waters of the "Wabash. He had been empowered by the President to call on Virginia for 1,000 troops and on Pennsylvania for 500, and he immediately availed himself of this resource, ordering 300 of the Virginia militia to muster at Fort Steuben and march with the garrison of tiiat fort to Vincenues, and join Maj. Hamtramck, who had orders to call for aid from the militia of Vincennes, march up the Wal)ash, and attack any of the Indian villages which he miglit think he could overcome. The remaining 1,200 of the mi- litia were ordered to rendezvous at Fort Washington, and to join the regular troops at that post under command of Gen. Harmar. At this time the United States troops in the West were estimated by Gen. Harmar at 400 effective men. These, with the militia, gave him a force of 1,450 men. With this army Gen. Harmar marched from Fort Washington Sept. 30, and arrived at the Mau- mee Oct. 17. They commenced the work of punishing the Indians, but were not very successl"ul. The savages, it is true, received a severe scourging, but the militia behaved so badly as to be of little or no service. A detachment of 340 militia and 60 regulars, under the command of Col. Hardin, were sorely defeated on the Maumee Oct. 22. The next day the army took up the line of march for Fort Washington, which place they reached Nov. 4, having lost in the expedition 183 killed and 31 wounded; the Indians lost about as many. During the progress of this expedition Maj. Hamtramck marched up the Wabash from Vincennes, as far as the Vermillion river, and destroyed several deserted villages, but without finding an enemy to oppose him. Although the savages seem to have been severely punished by tliese expeditions, yet they refused to sue for peace, and continued their hostilities. Thereupon the inhabitants of the frontier settle- ments of Virginia took alarm, and the delegate.^ of Ohio, Monoii- 76 HISTORT OF INDIANA. gahela, Harrison, Randolph, Greenbrier, Kanawha and Mont- gomery counties sent a joint memorial to the Governor uf Vir- ginia, saying that tlie defenseless condition of tlie counties, form- ing a line of nearly 400 miles along the Ohio river, exposed to the hostile invasion of their Indian enemies, destitute of every kind of support, was truly alarming; for, notwithstanding all the regula- tions of the General Government in that country, they have reason to lament that they have been up to that time ineffectual for their protection; nor indeed could it be otherwise, for the garrisons kept by the Continental troops on the Ohio river, if of any use at all, must protect only the Kentucky settlements, as they immediately covered that country. They further stated in their memorial: "We beg leave to observe that we have reason to fear that the conse- quences of the defeat of our army by the Indians in the late expe- dition will be severely felt on our frontiers, as there is no doubt that the Indians will, in their turn, being flushed with victory, in- vade our settlements and exercise all their horrid murder upon the inhabitants thereof whenever the weather will permit them to travel. Then is it not better to support us where we are, be the ex- pense what it may, than to oblige such a number of your brave citizens, who have so long supported, and still continue to support, a dangerous frontier (although thousands of their relatives in the flesh have in the prosecution thereof fallen a sacrifice to savage in- ventions) to quit the country, after all they have done and suffered, when you know that a frontier must be supported somewhere?" This memorial caused the Legislature of Virginia to authorize the Governor of that State to make any defensive operations neces- sary for the temporary defense of the frontiers, until the general Government could adopt and carry out measures to suppress the hostile Indians. The Governor at once called upon the military commanding officers in the western counties of Virginia to raise hy the first of March, 1791, several small companies of rangers for this purpose. At the same time Charles Scott was appointed Brigadier- General of the Kentucky militia, with authority to raise 226 vol- unteers, to protect the most exposed portions of that district. K full report of the proceedings of the Virginia Legislature being transmitted to Congress, that body constituted a local Board of War for the district of Kentuck}-, consisting of five men. March 9, 1791, Gen. Henry Knox, Secretary of War, sent a letter of instruc- tions to Gen. Scott, recommending an expedition of mounted men not exceeding 750, against the Wea towns on the Wabash. With HISTdKV OK INDIANA. 77 this force Gen. Scott accordingly crossed the Ohio, May 23, 1791, and reached the Wabash in about ten days. Many of the Indians, having discovered his approach, fled, but he succeeded in destroy- ing all the villages around Ouiatenon, together with several Kick- apoo towns, killing 32 warriors and taking 5S prisoners. He released a few of the most infirm prisoners, giving them a " talk," which they carried to the towns farther up the Wabash, and which the wretched condition of his horses prevented him from reaching. March 3, 1791, Congress provided for raising and equipping a regiment for the protection of the frontiers, and Gov. St. Clair was invested with the chief command of about 3,000 troops, to be raised and employed against the hostile Indians in the territory over whicli his jurisdiction extended. H(? was instructed by the Secre- tary of War to march to the Miami village and establish a strong and permanent military post there; also such posts elsewhere along the Ohio as would be in communication with Fort Washington. The post at Miami village was intended to keep the savages in that vicinity in check, and was ordered to be strong enough in its gar- rison to afford a detachment of 500 or 600 men in case of emer- gency, either to chastise any of the Wabash or other hostile Indians or capture convoys of the enemy's provisions. The Secretary of War also urged Gov. St. Clair to establish that post as the first and most important part of the campaign. In case of a previous treaty the Indians were to be conciliated upon this point if possible; and he presumed good arguments might be offered to induce their acquiescence. Said he: "Having commenced your march upon the main expedition, and the Indians continuing hostile, you will use every possible exertion to make them feel the effects of your superi- ority; and, after having arrived at the Miami village and put your works in a defensible state, you will seek the enemy with the whole of your remaining force, and endeavor by all possible means to strike them with great severity. * * * * In order to avoid future wars, it might be proper to make the Wa- bash and thence over to the Maumee, and down the same to its mouth, at Lake Erie, the boundary between the people of the United States and the Indians (excepting so far as the same should relate to the Wyandots and Delawares), on the supposition of their continuing faithful to the treaties; but if they should join in the war against the United States, and your army be victorious, the said tribes ought to be removed without the boundary mentioned." Previous to marching a strong force to the Miami town, Gov. St. 7b HISTORY OF INDIANA. Clair, June 25, 1791, authorized Gen Wilkinson to conduct a second expedition, not exceeding 500 mounted men, against the Indian villages on the Wabash. Accordingly Gen. Wilkinson mustered his forces and was ready July 20, to march with 525 mounted vol- unteers, well armed, and provided with 30 days' provisions, and with this force he reached the Ke-na-pa-com-a-qua village on the north bank of Eel river about six miles above its mouth, Aug. 7, where he killed six warriors and took 34 prisoners. This town> which was scattered along the river for three miles, was totally de- stroyed. Wilkinson encamped on the ruins of the town that night, and the next day he commenced his march for the Kickapoo town on the prairie, which he was unable to reach owing to the impassa- ble condition of the route which he adopted and the failing condi- tion of his horses. He reported the estimated results of the expe- /dition as follows: "I have destroyed the chief town of the Ouiate- non nation, and have made prisoners of tlie sons and sisters of the king. I have burned a respectable Kickapoo village, and cutdown at least 400 acres of corn, chiefly in the milk." EXPEDITIONS OF ST. CLAIK AND WAYNE. The IndianB were greatly damaged by the expeditions of Harmar, Scott and Wilkinson, but were far from being subdued. They regarded the policy of the United States as calculated to extermi- nate them from the land; and, goaded on by the English of Detroit, enemies of the Americans, they were excited to desperation. At this time the British Government still supported garrisons at Niagara, Detroit and Michilimackinac, although it was declared by the second article of the definitive treaty of peace of 17S3, that the king of Great Britain would, " with all convenient speed, and without causing any destruction or carrying away any negroes or property of the American inhabitants, withdraw all his forces, garrisons and fleets from the United States, and from every post, place and iiarbor within the same." That treaty also provided that the creditors on either side should meet with no lawful impedi- ments to the recovery of the full value, in sterling money, of all honu fide debts previously contracted. The British Government claimed that the United States had broken faith in this particular understanding of the treaty, and in consequence refused to with- draw its forces from the territory. The British garrisons in the Lake Region wepo a source of much annoyance to the Americans, as they afforded oviitor xo hostile Indians, encouraging them to mSTOliV OF INDIANA. 79 make raids among the Americans. This state of affairs in the Territory Northwest of tiie Ohio continued from the commence- ment of the Revolutionary war to 1796, when under a second treaty all British soldiers were withdrawn from the country. In September, 1791, St. Clair moved from Fort Washington with about 2,000 men, and November 3, the main army, consisting of about 1,400 effective troops, moved forward to the head-waters of the Wabash, where Fort Recovery was afterward erected, and here the army encamped. About 1,200 Indians were secreted a few miles distant, awaiting a favorable opportunity to begin an attack, which they improved on the morning of Nov. 4, about half an hour before sunrise. The attack was first made upon the militia, which immediately gave way. St. Clair was defeated and he returned to Fort Wasiiington with a broken and dispirited army, having lost 39 officers killed, and 539 men killed and missing; 22 officers and 232 men were wounded. Several pieces of artillery, and all the baggage, ammunition and provisions were left on the field of bat- tle and fell into the hands of the victorious Indians. The stores and other public property lost iu the action were valued at $32,800. There were also 100 or more American women with the army of the wiiites, very few of whom escaped the cruel carnage of the sav- age Indians. The latter, characteristic of their brutal nature, proceeded in the flush of victory to perpetrate the most horrible acts of cruelty and brutality upon the bodies of the living and the dead Americans who fell into their hands. Believing that the whites had made war for many years merely to acquire land, the Indians crammed clay and sand into the eyes and down tlie throats of the dying and the dead! GEN. Wayne's great victory. Although no particular blame was attached to Gov. St. Clair for the loss in this expedition, yet he resigned the office of Major-Gen- eral, and was succeeded by Anthony Wayne, a distinguished officer of the Revolutionary war. Early in 1792 provisions were made by the general Government for re-organizing the army, so that it should consist of an efficient degree of strength. Wayne arrived at Pittsburg in June, where the army was to rendezvous. Here he continued actively engaged in organizing and training his forces until October, 1793, when with an army of about 3,600 men he moved westward to Fort Washington. While Wavne was preparing for an offensive campaign, every so nisruKY OF Indiana. possible means was employed to induce tlie hostile tribes of the Northwest to enter into a general treaty of peace with the Ameri- can Government; speeches were sent amonw them, and agents to make treaties were also sent, but little was accomplished. Major Hamtramck, who still remained at Vincennes, succeeded in con- cluding a general peace with the Wabash and Illinois Indians; but the tribes more immediately under the influence of the British refused to hear the sentiments of friendship that were sent among them, and tomahawked several of the messengers. Their courage had been aroused by St. Clair's defeat, as well as by the unsuccess- ful expeditions which had preceded it, and they now felt quite pre- pared to meet a superior force under Gen. Wayne. The Indians insisted on the Ohio river as the boundary line between their lands and the lands of the United States, and felt certain that they could maintain tlmt boundary. Maj. Gen. Scott, with about 1,600 mounted volunteers from Kentucky, joined the regular troops under Gen. Wayne July 26, 1794, and on the 28th the united forces began their march for the Indian towns on the Maumee river. Arriving at the mouth of the Auglaize, they erected Fort Detiance, and Aug. 15 the army advanced toward the British fort at the foot of the rapids of the Maumee, where, on the 20th, almost within reach of the British the American army gained a decisive victory over the combined forces of the hostile Indians and a considerable number of the Detroit militia. The number of the enemy was estimated at 2,000, against about 900 American troops actually engaged. This horde of savages, as soon as the action began, abandoned themselves to flight and dispersed with terror and dismay, leaving Wayne's vic- torious army in full and quiet possession of the field. The Ameri- cans lost 33 killed and 100 wounded; loss of the enemy more than double this number. The army remained three days and nights on the banks of the Maumee, in front of the field of battle, during which time all the houses and cornfields were consumed and destroyed for a considera- ble distance both above and below Fort Miami, as well as within pistol shot of the British garrison, who were compelled to remain idle spectators to this general devastation and conflagration, among which were the houses, stores and property of Col. McKee, the British Indian agent and " principal stimulator of the war then existing between the United States and savages." On the return march to Fort Defiance the villages and cornfields for about 5C HISTOKV OF INDIANA. 81 miles on each side of tlie Mauinee were destroyed, as well as those for a considerable distance around that post. Sept. ]i. 179-ir, tlie army under Gen. Wayne commenced its marcli toward tlie deserted Miami villages at the confluence of St. Joseph's and St. Mary's rivers, arriving Oct. 17, and on the follow- ing day the site of Fort Wayne was selected. The fort was com- pleted Xov. 2'2, and garrisoned by a strong detachment of infantry and artillery, under the command of Col. John F. Hamtramck, who gave to the new fort the name of Fort Wayne. In 1814 a new fort was built on the site of this structure. The Kentucky volunteers returned to Fort Washington and were mustered out of service. Gen. Wa3me, with the Federal troops, marched to Greenville and took up his headquarters during the winter. Here, in August, 1795, after several months of active negotiation, this gallant officer succeeded in concluding a general treaty of peace with all the hos- tile tribes of the Northwestern Territory. This treaty opened the way for the flood of immigration for many years, and ultimately made the States and territories now constituting tiie mighty North- west. Up to the organization of the Indiana Territory there is but little history to record aside from those events connected with military affixirs. In July, 1796, as before stated, after a treaty was con- cluded between tlie United States and Spain, the British garrisons, with their arms, artillery and stores, were withdrawn from the posts within the boundaries of the United States northwest of the Ohio river, and a detachment of American troops, consisting of 65 men, under the command of Capt. Moses Porter, took possession of the evacuated post of Detroit in the same month. In the latter part of 1796 Winthrop Sargent went to Detroit and organized the county of Wayne, forming a part of the Indiana Territory until its division in 1805, when the Territory of Michigan was organized. TEKRITORIAL HISTOEY. ORGANIZATION OF INDIANA TEEEITOEY. On the final success of American arms and diplomacy in 1796, the principal town within the Territory, now the State, of Indiana was Vincennes, which at this time comprised about 50 liouses, all presenting a thrifty and tidy appearance. Each house was sur- rounded by a garden fenced with poles, and peach and apple-trees grew in most of the enclosures. Garden vegetables of all kinds were cultivated with success, and corn, tobacco, wheat, barley and cotton grew in the fields around the village in abundance. During the last few years of the 18th century the condition of society at Vincennes improved wonderfully. Besides Vincennes there was a small settlement near where the town of Lawrenceburg now stands, in Dearborn county, and in the course of that year a small settlement was formed at " Armstrong's Station," on the Ohio, within the present limits of Clark county. There were of course several other smaller settlements and trading posts in the present limits of Indiana, and the number of civilized inhabitants comprised within the territory was estimated at 4,875. The Territory of Indiana was organized by Act of Congress May 7, 1800, the material parts of the ordinance of 1787 remaining in force; and the inhabitants were invested with all the I'ights, privi- leges and advantages granted and secured to the people by that ordinance. The seat of government was fixed at Vincennes. May 13, 1800, Wm. Henry Harrison, a native ot Virginia, was appoint- ed Governor of this new territory, and on the next day John Gib- son, a native of Pennsylvania and a distinguished "Western pioneer, (to whom the Indian chief Logan delivered his celebrated speech in 1774), was appointed Secretary of the Territory. Soon afterward Wm. Clark, Henry Vanderburgh and John Griffio were appointed territorial Judges. Secretary Gibson arrived at Vincennes in July, and commenced, in the absence of Gov. Harrison, the administration of government. Gov. Harrison did not arrive until Jan. 10, 1801, when he imme- diately called together the Judges of the Territory, who proceeded (82) HISTORY OF INIMANA. S3 to pass such laws as they deemed necessary for the present govern- ment of the Territory. This session began March 3, 1801. From this time to 1810 the principal subjects wliicli attracted the attention of the people of Indiana were land speculations, the adjustment of land titles, the question of negro slavery, the purchase of Indian lands by treaties, the organization of Territorial legis- latures, the extension of the right of suffrage, the division of Indiana Territory, the movements of Aaron Burr, and the hostile views and proceedings of the Shawanee chief, Tecuniseh, and his brother, the Propliet. Up to this time the sixth article of the celebrated ordinance of 1787, prohibiting slavery in the Northwestern Territor}', had been somewhat neglected in the execution of the law, and many French settlers still held slaves in a manner. In some instances, according to rules prescribed by Territorial legislation, slaves agreed by indentures to remain in servitude under their masters for a certain number of years; but many slaves, with whom no such contracts were made, were removed from the Indiana Territory either to the west of the Mississippi or to some of the slaveholdlng States, Gov. Harrison convoked a session of delegates of the 'ierritory^ elected by a popular vote, who petitioned Congress to declare tiie sixth article of the ordinance of 1787, prohibiting slavery, suspend- ed; but Congress never consented to grant that petition, and many other petitions of a similar import. Soon afterward some of the citizens began to take colored persons out of the Territory for the purpose of selling them, and Gov. Harrison, by a proclamatiou April 6, 1804, forbade it, and called upon the authorities of the Territory to assist him in preventing such removal of persons of color. During the year 1804 all the country west of the Mississippi and north of 33° was attached to Indiana Territory by Congress, but in a few months was again detached and organized into a separate ter- ritory. When it appeared from the result of a popular vote in the Terri- tory that a majority of 138 freeliolders were in favor of organizing a General Assembly, Gov. Harrison, Sept. 11, 1804, issued a procla- mation declaring that tlie Territory had passed into the second grade of government, as contemplated by the ordinance of 1787, and fixed Thursday, Jan. 3, 1805, as the time for holding an election in the several counties of the Territory, to choose members of a House of Representatives, who should meet at Vincennes Feb. 1 and 84 UISTOltY OF INDIANA. adopt measures for the orgaaizatioii of a Territorial Council. These delegates were elected, and met according to the proclamation, and selected ten men from whom the President of the United States, Mr. Jefferson, should appoint five to be and constitute the Legisla- tive Council of the Territory, but he declining, requested Mr. Har- rison to make the selection, which was accordingly done. Before the first session of this Council, however, was held, Michigan Ter- ritory was set off, its south line being one drawn from the southern end of Lake Michigan directly east to Lake Erie. FIBST TERKITOKIAL LEGISLATURE. The first General Assembly, or Legislature, of Indiana Territory met at Vincennes July 29, 1805, in pursuance of a gubernatorial proclamation. The members of the House of Representatives were Jesse B. Thomas, of Dearborn county; Davis Floyd. of Clark count}'; Benjamin Parke and John Johnson, of Knox county; Shadrach Bond and William Biggs, of St. Clair county, and George Fisher, of Randolph count}'. July 30 the Governor delivered his first mes- sage to "the Legislative Council and House of Representatives of the Indiana Territory." Benjamin Parke was the first delegate elected to Congress. He had emigrated from New Jersey to In- diana in 1801. THE "western sun" was the first newspaper published in the Indiana Territory, now comprising the four great States of Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, and the second in all that country once known as the "Northwestern Territory." It was commenced at Vincennes in 1S03, by Elihu Stout, of Kentucky, and- first called the Indiana OaztUe, and July, 4, 1S04, was changed to the 'Western Sun. Mr. Stout continued the paper until 1845, amid many discouragements, ■when he was appointed postmaster at the place, and he sold out the office. INDIANA IN 1810. The events which we have just been describing really constitute the initiatory steps to the great military campaign of Gen. Harrison which ended in the "battle of Tippecanoe;" but before proceeding to an account of that brilliant affair, let us take a glance at the re- sources and strength of Indiana Territory at this time, 1810: Total population, 24,520; 33 grist mills: 14 saw mills; 3 horse mills; 18 tanneries; 28 distilleries; 3 powder mills; 1,256 looms; HISTOKY OF INDIANA. 85 1,350 spinning wheels; value of manufactures — woolen, cotton hempen and flaxen cloths, $159,052; of cotton and wool spun in mills, $150,000; of nails, 30,000 pounds, $4,000; of leather tanned, $i},300; of distillery products, 35,950 gallons, $16,230; of gun- powder, 3,600 pounds, $1,S00; of wine from grapes, 96 barrels, $6,000, and 5 0,000 pounds of maple sugar. During the year 1810 a Board of Commissioners was established to straighten out the confused condition into which the land-title controversy had been carried by the various and conflicting admin- istrations that had previously exercised jurisdiction in this regard. This work was attended with much labor on the part of the Commis- sioners and great dissatisfaction on the part of a few designing sj^ecu- lators, who thought no extreme of perjury too hazardous in their mad attempts to obtain lands fraudulently. In closing their report the Commissioners used the following expressive language: ''We close this melancholy picture of human depravity by rendering our devout acknowledgment that, in the awful alternative in which we have been placed, of either admitting perjured testimony in sup- port of the claims befoi'e us, or having it turned against our char- acters and lives, it has as yet pleased that divine providence which rules over the affairs of men, to preserve us, both from legal mur- der and private assassination." The question of dividing the Territory of Indiana was agitated from 1S06 to 1809, when Congress erected the Territory of Illinois, to comprise all that part of Indiana Territory lying west of the Wabash river and a direct line drawn from that river and Post Vincennes due north to the territorial line between the United States and Canada. This occasioned some confusion in the govern- ment of Indiana, but in due time the new elections were confirmed, and the new territuiy started off on a journey of prosperity which this section of the United States has ever since enjoyed. From the first settlement of Vincennes for nearly half a century there occurred nothing of importance to relate, at least so far as the records inform us. The place was too isolated to grow very fast, and we suppose there was a succession of priests and com- mandants, who governed the little world around them with almost infinite power and authority, from whose decisions there was no appeal, if indeed any was ever desired. The character of society in such a place would of course grow gradually different from the parent society, assimilating more or less with that of neighboring tribes. The whites lived in peace with the Indians, each under- 86 HISTORY OF INDIANA. Standing the other's peculiarities, which remained fixed long enough for both parties to study out and understand them. The government was a mixture of the military and the civil. There was little to incite to enterprise. Speculations in money and prop- erty, and their counterpart, beggary, were both unknown; the nec- essaries of life were easily procured, and beyond these there were but few wants to be supplied; hospitality was exercised by all, as there were no taverns; there seemed to be no use for law, judges or prisons; each district had its commandant, and the proceedings of a trial were singular. The complaining party obtained a notifi- cation from the commandant to his adversary, accompanied by a command to render justice. If this had no eflect he was notified to appear before the commandant on a particular da}' and answer; and if the last notice was neglected, a sergeant and file of men were sent to bring him, — no sheriff and no costs. The convicted party would be fined and kept in j)rison until he rendered justice according to the decree; when extremely refractory the cat-o'-nine- tails brought him to a sense of justice. In such a state of society there was no demand for learning and science. Few could read, and still fewer write. Their disposition was nearly always to deal honestly, at least simply. Peltries were their standard of value. A brotherly love generally prevailed. But they were devoid of public spirit, enterprise or ingenuity. GOV. HARRISON AND THE INDIANS. Immediately after the organization of Indiana Territory Governor Harrison's attention was directed, by necessity as well as by in- structions from Congress, to settling affairs with those Indians who still held claims to lands. He entered into several treaties, by which at the close of 1805 the United States Government had ob- tained about 46,000 square miles of territory, including all the lands lying on the borders of the Ohio river between the mouth of the "Wabash river and the State of Ohio. The lei^ying of a tax, especially a poll tax, by the General Assem- bly, created considerable dissatisfaction among many of the inhabit- ants. At a meeting held Sunday, August 16, 1807, a number of Frenchmen resolved to " withdraw their confidence and support forever from those men who advocated or in any manner promoted the second grade of government." In 1807 the territorial statutes were revised and under the new code, treason, murder, arson and horse-stealing were each punish- able by death. The crime of manslaughter was punishable by the common law. Burglary and robbery were punishable by whip- ping, fine and in some cases by imprisonment not exceeding forty years. Hog stealing was punishable by fine and whipping. Bigamy was punishable b}' fine, whipping and disfranchisement, etc. In 1804 Congress established three land offices for the sale of lands in Indiana territory; one was located at Detroit, one at Vin- cennes and one at Kaskaskia. In 1807 a fourth one was opened at Jefferson ville, Clark county; this town was first laid out in 1802, agreeably to plans suggested by Mr. Jefferson then President of the United States. Governor Harrison, according to his message to the Legislature in 1806, seemed to think that the peace then existing between the whites and the Indians was permanent; but in the same document he referred to a matter that might be a source of trouble, which in- deed it proved to be, namely, the execution of white laws among the Indians — laws to which the latter had not been a party in their enactment. The trouble was aggravated by the partiality with which the laws seem always t6 have been executed; the Indian (sr) 88 HISTOEY OF INDIANA. was nearly always the sufferer. All along from 1805 to 1810 the Indians complained bitterly against the encroachments of the white people upon the lands that belonged to them. The invasion of their hunting grounds and the unjustifiable killing of many of their peo- ple M'ere the sources of their discontent. An old chief, in laying the trouble of his people before Governor Harrison, said: "You call us children ; why do you not make us as happy as our fathers, the French, did? The}' never took from us our lands; indeed, they were common between us. They planted where they pleased, and they cut wood where they pleased; and so did we; but now if a poor Indian attempts to take a little bark from a tree to cover him from the rain, up comes a white man and threatens to shoot him, claiming the tree as his own." The Indian truly had grounds for his complaint, and the state of feeling existing among the tribes at this time was well calculated to develop a patriotic leader who should carry them all forward to victory at arms, if certain concessions were not made to them by the whites. But this golden opportunity was seized by an unworthy warrior. A brother of Tecumseh, a "prophet" named Law-le-was-i- kaw, but who assumed the name of Pems-quat-a-wah (Open Door), was the crafty Shawanee warrior who was enabled to work upon both the superstitions and the rational judgment of his fellow In- dians. He was a good orator, somewhat peculiar in his appearance and well calculated to win the attention and respect of the savages. He began by denouncing witchcraft, the use of intoxicating liquors, the custom of Indian women marrying white men, the dress of the whites and the practice of selling Indian lands to the United States. He also told the Indians that the commands of the Great Spirit re- quired them to punish with death those who practiced the arts of witchcraft and magic; that the Great Spirit had given him power to find out and expose such persons; that he had power to cure all ■diseases, to confound his enemies and to stay the arm of death in sickness and on the battle-field. His harangues aroused among some bands of Indians a high degree of superstitious excitement. An old Delaware chief named Ta-te-bock-o-she, through whose in- fluence a treaty had been made with the Delawares in 1804, was accused of witchcraft, tried, condemned and tomahawked, and his body consumed by fire. The old chief's wife, nephew ("Billy Patterson ") and an aged Indian named Joshua were next accused of witchcraft and condemned to death. The two men were burned at the stake, but the wife of Ta-te-bock-o-she was saved from TnE SHAW.NEK i'KOf'ilK P. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 91 death by her brother, who suddenly approached her, took her by the hand, and, without meeting any opposition from the Indians present, led her out of the council- house. He then immediately returned and checked the growing influence of the Prophet by exclaiming in a strong, earnest voice, " The Evil Spirit has come among us and we are killing each other." — [Dillon's Ilhtorii of Indiana. When Gov. Harrison was made acquainted with these events he sent a special messenger to the Indians, strongly entreating them to renounce the Prophet and his works. This really destroyed to some extent the Prophet's influence; but in the spring of 1808, having aroused nearly all the tribes of the Lake Region, the Prophet with a large number of followers settled near the mouth of the Tippe- canoe river, at a place which afterward had the name of "Prophet's- Town." Taking advantage of his brother's influence, Tecuraseh actively engaged himself in forming the various tribes into a con- federacy. He announced publicly to all the Indians that the treaties by which the United States had acquired lands northwest of the Ohio were not made in fairness, and should be considered void. He also said that no single tribe was invested with power to sell lands without the consent of all the other tribes, and that he and his brother, the Prophet, would oppose and resist all future attempts which the white people might make to extend their set- tlements in the lands that belonged to the Indians. Early in 1808, Gov. Harrison sent a speech to the Shawanees, in which was this sentence: " My children, this business must be stopped; I will no longer sufler it. You have called a number of men from the most distant tribes to listen to a fool, who speaks not the words of the Great Spirit but those of the devil and the British agents. My children, your conduct has much alarmed the white settlers near you. They desire that you will send away those people; and if they wish to have the impostor with them they can carry him along with them. Let him go to the lakes; he can hear the British more distinctly." This message wounded the pride of the Prophet, and he prevailed on the messenger to inform Gov. Harrison that he was not in league with the British, but was speak- ing truly the words of the Great Spirit. In the latter part of the summer of 1808, the Prophet spent sev- eral weeks at Vincennes, for the purpose of holding interviews with Gov. Harrison. At one time he told the Governor that he was a Christian and endeavored to persuade his people also to become Christians, abandon the use of liquor, be united in broth- 92 HISTOKV OK INUIANA. erlj love, etc., making Mr. Harrison believe at least, that he was honest; but before long it was demonstrated that the "Prophet'* was designing, cunning and unreliable; that both he and Tecumseh were enemies of the United States, and friends of the English; and that in case of a war between the Americans and English, they would join the latter. The next year the Prophet again visited Vincennes, with assurances that he was not in sympathy with the English, but the Governor was not disposed to believe him; and in a letter to the Secretary of War, in July, 1809, he said that he regarded the bands of Indians at Prophet's Town as a combination which had been produced by British intrigue and influence, in antic- ipation of a war between them and the United States. In direct opposition to Tecumseh and the prophet and in spite of all these difficulties, Gov. Harrison continued the work of extin- guishing Indian titles to lands, with very good success. By the close of 1809, the total amount of land ceded to the United States, under treaties which had been efl'ected by Mr. Harrison, exceeded 30,000,000 a res. From 1S05 to 1807, the movements of Aaron Burr in the Ohio valley created considerable excitement in Indiana. It seemed tiiat he intended to collect a force of men, invade Mexico and found a republic there, com])rising all the country west of the Alleghany mountains. He gathered, however, but a few men, started south, and was soon arrested by the Federal authorities. But before his arrest he had abandoned his expedition and his followers had dispersed. Harrison's campaign. While the Indians were combining to prevent any further trans- fer of land to the whites, the British were using the advantage as a groundwork for a successful war upon the Americans. In the spring of 1810 the followers of the Prophet refused to receive their annuity of salt, and the officials who offered it were denounced as "American dogs," and otherwise treated in a disrespectful manner. Gov. Harrison, in July, attempted to gain the friendship of the Prophet by sending him a letter, offering to treat with him person- ally in the matter of his grievances, or to furnish means to send him, with three of his principal chiefs, to the President at Wash- ington; but the messenger was coldly received, and they returned word that they would visit Vincennes in a few days and interview the Governor. Accordingl}', Aug. 12, 1810, the Shawanee chief with 70 of his principal warriors, marched up to the door of the IIISTOKY OF INDIANA. 93 Ooveriior's liouse, and from that day until the 22d held daily inter- views with llis Excellency, lu all of iiis speeches Tecumseh was liaughty, and sometimes arrogant. On the 20tli he delivered that celebrated speech in which he gave the Governor the alternative of returning their lands or meeting them in battle. While the Governor was replying to this speech Tecumseh inter- rupted hiin with an angry exclamation, declaring that the United States, through Gov. Harrison, had "cheated and imposed on the Indians." When Tecumseh first rose, a number of his party also sprung to their feet, armed wnth clubs, tomahawks and spears, and made some threatening demoustrations. The Governor's guards, who stood a little way oflf, were marched up in haste, and the In- dians, awed by the presence of this small armed force, abandoned what seemed to be an intention to make an open attack on the Gov- ernor and his attendants. As soon as Tecumseh's remarks were interpreted, the Governor reproached him for his conduct, and com- manded him to depart instantly to his camp. On the following day Tecumseh repented of his rash act and re- quested the Governor to grant him another interview, and pro- tested against any intention of offense. The Governor consented, and the council was re-opened on the 21st, when the Shawanee chief addressed him in a respectful and dignified manner, but re- mained immovable in his policy. The Governor then requested Tecumseh to state plainly whether or not the surveyors who might be sent to survey the lands purchased at the treaty of Fort Wayne in 1809, would be molested by Indians. Tecumseh replied: "Brother, when you speak of annuities to me, I look at the land and pity the women and children. I am authorized to say that they will not receive them. Brother, we want to save that piece of land. We do not wish you to take it. It is small enough for our purpose. If you do take it, you must blame yourself as the cause of the trouble between us and the tribes who sold it to you. I want the present boundary line to continue. Should you cross it, I assure you it will be productive of bad consequences." Tiie next day the Governor, attended only by his interpreter, visited the camp of the great Shawanee, and in the course of a long interview told him that the President of the United States would not acknowledge liis claims. "Well," replied the brave warrior, "as the great chief is to determine the matter, I hope the Great Spirit will put sense enough into his head to induce liim to direct you to give up this land. It is true, he is so far off he will not be tJ4 UISTOEY OF INDIANA. injured by the war. He may sit still in his town and drink his wine, while yon and I will have to fight it out." In his message to the new territorial Legislature in 1810 Gov. Harrison called attention to the dangerous views held by Tecumseh and the Prophet, to the pernicious influence of alien enemies among the Indians, to the unsettled condition of the Indian trade and to the policy of extinguishing Indian titles to lands. The eastern settlements were separated from the western by a consider- able extent of Indian lands, and the most fertile tracts within the territory were still in the hands of the Indians. Almost entirely divested of the game from which they had drawn their subsistence, it had become of little use to them; and it was the intention of the Government to substitute for the precarious and scanty sup- plies of the chase the more certain and plentiful support of agri- culture and stock-raising. The old habit of the Indians to hunt so long as a deer could be found was so inveterate that they would not break it and resort to intelligent agriculture unless they were compelled to, and to this they would not be compelled unless they were confined to a limited extent of territory. The earnest lan- guage of the Governor's appeal was like this: "Are then those extinguishments of native title which are at once so beneficial to the Indian and the territory of the United States, to be suspended on account of the intrigues of a few individuals? Is one of the fair- est portions of the globe to remain in a state of nature, the hannt of a few wretched savages, when it seems destined by the Creator to give support to a large population, and to be the seat of civili- zation, of science and true religion?" In the same message the Governor also urged the establishment of a system of popular education. Among the acts passed bv this session of the Legislature, one authorized the President and Directors of the Vincennes Public Library to raise $1,000 by lottery. Also, a petition was sent to Congress for a permanent seat of government for the Territory, and commissioners were appointed to select the site. With the beginning of the year 1811 the British agent for Indian affairs adopted measures calculated to secure the support of the savages in the war which at this time seemed almost inevitable. Meanwhile Gov. Harrison did all in his power to destroy the influ- ence of Tecumseh and his brother and break up the Indian confed- eracy which was oeing organized in the interests of Great Britain. Pioneer settlers and the Indians naturally grew uiore and more HISTORY OF INDIANA. 95 aggressive and intolerant, committing depredations and murders, until the Governor felt compelled to send the following speech, substantially, to the two leaders of the Indian tribes: "This is the third year that all the white people in this country have been alarmed at your proceedings; you threaten us with war; you invite all the tribes north and west of you to join against us, while your warriors who have lately been here deny this. The tribes on the Mississippi have sent me word that you intended to murder me and then commence a war upon my people, and your seizing the salt I recently sent up the Wabash is also sufficient evidence of such intentions on your part. My warriors are preparing themselves, not to strike you, but to defend themselves and their women and children. You shall not surprise us, as you e.xpect to do. Your intended act is a rash one: consider well of it. What can induce you to undertake such a thing when there is so little prospect of success? Do you really think that the handful of men you have about you are able to contend with the seventeen 'fires?' or even that the whole of the tribes united could contend against the Ken- tucky 'fire' alone? I am myself of the Long 'Knife fire.' As soon as they hear my voice you will see tliem pouring forth their swarms of hunting-shirt men as numerous as the musquitoes on the shores of the Wabash. . Take care of their stings. It is not our wish to hurt you; if we did, we certainly have power to do it. " You have also insulted the Government of the United States, by seizing the salt that was intended for other tribes. Satisfaction must be given for that also. You talk of coming to see me, attend- ed by all of your young men; but this must not be. If your inten- tions are good, you have no need to bring but a few of your young men with you. I must be plain with you. I will not suffer you to come into our settlements with such a force. My advice is that you visit the President of the United States and lay your griev- ances before him. " With respect to the lands that were purchased last fall I can enter into no negotiations with you; the affair is with the Presi- dent. If you wish to go and see him, I will supply you with the means. " The person who delivers this is one of my war officers, and is a man in whom I have entire confidence; whatever he says to you, although it may not be contained in this paper, you may believe comes from me. My friend Tecumseh, the bearer is a good man and a brave warrior; I hope you will treat him well. You ar? 96 UISTORT OF INDIANA. yourself a warrior, and all such should have esteem for each other." The bearer of this speech was politely received by Tecumseh, •who replied to the Governor briefly that he should visit Vincennes in a few days. Accordingly he arrived July 27, 1811, bringing with him a considerable force of Indians, which created much alarm among the inhabitants. In view of an emergency Gov. Harrison reviewed his militia — about 750 armed men — and station- ed two companies and a detachment of dragoons on the borders of the town. At this interview Tecumseh held forth that he intended no war against the United States; that he would send messengers among the Indians to prevent murders and depredations on the white settlements; that the Indians, as well as the whites, who had committed murders, ought to be forgiven; that he had set the white people an example of forgiveness, which tliey ought to follow; that it wag his wish to establish a union among all the Indian tribes; that the northern tribes were united; that he was going to visit the southern Indians, and then return to the Prophet's town. He said also that he would visit the President the next spring and settle all difficulties with liim, and that he hoped no attempts would be made to make settlements on the lands which had been sold to the United States, at the treaty of Fort Wayne, because the Indians wanted to keep those grounds for hunting. Tecumseh then, with about 20 of his followers, left for the South, to induce the tribes in that direction to join his confederacy. By the way, a lawsuit was instituted by Gov. Harrison against a certain Wm. Mcintosh, for asserting that the plaintiff had cheated the Indians out of their lands, and that by so doing he had made them enemies to the United States. The defendant was a wealthy Scotch resident of Vincennes, well educated, and a man of influence / among the people opposed to Gov. Harrison's land policy. The jury rendered a verdict in favor of Harrison, assessing the damages at $4,000. In execution of the decree of Court a large quantity of the defendant's land was sold in the absence of Gov. Harrison; but some time afterward Harrison caused about two-thirds of the j land to be restored'to Mr. Mcintosh, and the remainder was given to some orphan children. Harrison's first movement was to erect a new fort on the Wabash river and to break up the assemblage of hostile Indians at the Prophet's town. For this purpose he ordered Col. Boyd's regiment of infantry to move from the falls of Ohio to Vincennes. When the military expedition organized by Gov. Harrison was nearly HISTORY OF INIiIANA. 97 ready to march to the Prophet's town, several Indian chiefs arrived at Vincennes Sept. 25, 1811, and declared that the Indians would comply with the demands of the Governor and disperse; but this did not check the military proceedings. The army under com- mand of Harrison moved from Vincennes Sept. 26, and Oct. 3, en- countering no opposition from the enemy, encamped at the place where Fort Harrison was afterward built, and near where the city of Terre Haute now stands. On the night of the 11th a few hos- tile Indians approached the encampment and wounded one of the sentinels, which caused considerable excitement. The army was immediately drawn up in line of battle, and small detachments were sent in all directions; but the enemy could not be found. Then the Governor sent a message to Prophet's Town, requiring the Shawanees, Winnebagoes, Pottawatomies and Kickapoos at that place to ^eturii to their respective tribes; he also required the Prophet to restore all the stolen horses in his ]iossession, or to give satisfactory proof that such persons were not there, nor had lately been, under his control. To this message the Governor received no answer, unless that answer was delivered in the battle of Tip- pecanoe. The new fort on the Wabash was finished Oct. 28, and at the re- quest of all the subordinate officers it was called "Fort Harrison," near what is now Terre Haute. This fort was garrisoned with a small number of men under Lieutenant-Colonel Miller. On the 29th the remainder of the army, consisting of 910 men, moved toward the Prophet's town; about 270 of the troops were mounted. The regular troops, 250 in number, were under the command of Col. Boyd. With this army the Governor marched to within a half mile of the Prophet's town, when a conference was opened with a distinguished chief, in high esteem with the Prophet, and he informed Harrison that the Indians were much surprised at the approach of the army, and had already dispatched a message to him by another route. Harrison replied that he would not attack them until he had satisfied himsdf that they would not comply with his demands; that he would continue his encampment on the Wabash, and on the following morning would have an interview with the prophet. Harrison then resumed his march, and, after some difficulty, selected a place to encamp — a spot not very desir- able. It was a piece of dry oak land rising about ten feet above the marshy prairie in front toward the Indian town, and nearly twice that height above a similar prairie in the rear, through which 98 HISTORY OF INDIANA. and near this bank ran a small stream clotlied with willow and brush wood. Toward the left flank this highland widened consid- erably, but became gradually narrower in the opposite direction, and at the distance of 150 yards terminated in an abrupt point. The two columns of infantry occupied the front and lear of this ground, about 150 yards from each other on the left, and a little more than half that distance on the right, flank. One flank was filled by two companies of mounted riflemen, 120 men, under com- mand of Major-General Wells, of the Kentucky militia, and one by Spencer's company of mounted riflemen, numbering 80 men. The front line was composed of one battalion of United States in- fantry, under command of Major Floyd, flanked on the right by two companies of militia, and on the left by one company. The rear line was composed of a battalion of United States troops, under command of Capt. Bean, acting as Major, and four companies of militia infantry under Lieutenant-Colonel Decker. The regular troops of this line joined the mounted riflemen under Gen. Wells, on the left flank, and Col. Decker's battalion formed an angle with Spencer's company on tlie left. Two troops of dragoons, about 60 men in all, were encamped in the rear of the left flank, and Capt, Parke's troop, which was larger than the other two, in rear of the right line. For a night attack the order of encampment was the order of battle, and each man slept opposite his post in the line. In the formation of the troops single file was adopted, in order to get as great an extension of the lin6s as possible. BATTLE OF TIPPECANOE. No attack was made by the enemy until abou t 4 o'clock on the morning of Nov. 7, just after the Governor had arisen. The attack was made on the left flank. Only a single gun was fired by the sentinels or by the guard in that direction, which made no resist- ance, abandoning their posts and fleeing into camp; and the first notice which the troops of that line had of the danger was the yell of the savages within a short distance of them. But the men were courageous and preserved good discipline. Such of them as were awake, or easily awakened, seized arms and took their stations; others, who were more tardy, had to contend with the enemy in the doors of their tents. The storm first fell upon Capt. Barton's company of the Fourth United States Regiment, and Capt. Geiger's company of mounted riflemen, which formed the left angle of the rear line. The fire from the Indians was exceedingly severe, and niSTOKV OF INDIANA. 9^' men in these companies sutfered considerably before relief could be brought to them. Some few Indians passed into the encampment near the angle, and one or two penetrated to some distance before- they were killed. All the companies formed for action before they were fired on. The morning was dark and cloudy, and the fires or the Americans afforded only a partial light, which gave greater advantage to the enemy than to the troops, and they were there- fore e.xtinguished. As soon as the Governor could mount his horse he rode to the angle which was attacked, where he found that Barton's company had suftered severely, and the left of Geiger's entirely broken. He immediately ordered Cook's and Wentworth's companies to marclt up to the center of the rear line, where were stationed a small com- pany of U. S. ritlemen and the companies of Bean, Snelling and Prescott. As the General rode up he found Maj. Daviess forming the dragoons in the rear of these companies, and having ascertained that the heaviest fire proceeded from some trees 15 or 20 paces in. front of these companies, he directed the Major to dislodge them, with a part of the dragoons; but unfortunately the Major's gal- lantry caused him to undertake the execution of the order with a smaller force than was required, which enabled the enemy to avoid him in front and attack his flanks. He was mortally wounded and his men driven back. Capt. Snelling, however, with his company immediately dislodged those Indians. Capt. Spencer and his 1st and 2nd Lieutenants were killed, and Capt. Warwick mortally wounded. The soldiery remained brave. Spencer had too much ground originally, and Harrison re-enforced him with a company of riflemen which had been driven from their position on the left flank. Gen. Harrison's aim was to keep the lines entire, to prevent the enemy from breaking into the camp uutil daylight, which would enable him to make a general and effectual charge. With this view he had re-enforced every part of the Hue that had suffered much, and with the approach of morning he withdrew several companies from the front and rear lines and re-enforced the right and left flanks, foreseeing that at these points the enemy would make their last effort. Maj. Wells, who had commanded the left flank, charged upon the enemy and drove them at the point of the bayonet into the marsh, where they could not be followed. Meanwhile Capt. Cook and Lieut. Larrabee marched their companies to the right flank and formed under tire of the enemy, and being there joined 100 HISTORY OF INDIANA. by the riflemen of that flank, charged upon the enemy, killinir a number and putting the rest to a precipitate flight. Thus ended the famous battle of Tippecanoe, victoriously to tiie whites and honorably to Gen. Harrison. In this battle Mr. Harrison had about 700 efiicient men, while the Indians had probably more than that. The loss of the Ameri- cans was 37 killed and 25 mortally wounded, and 126 wounded: the Indians lost 3S killed on the field of battle, and the number of the wounded was never known. Amonw the whites killed were Daviess, Spencer, Owen, Warwick, Tlandolph, Bean and "White. Standing on an eminence near by, the Prophet encouraged his warriors to battle by singing a favorite war-song. He told them that they would gain an easy victory, and that the bullets of their enemies would be made harmless by the Great Spirit. Being informed during the engagement that some of the Indians were killed, he said that his warriors must fight on and they would soon be victorious. Immediately after their defeat the surviving Indians lost faith in their great (?") Proph- et, returned to their respective tribes, and thus the confederacy was destroyed. The Prophet, with a very few followers, then took up his residence among a small band of Wyandots encamped on "Wild-Cat creek. His famous town, with all its possessions, was destroyed the next day, Nov. 8. On the 18th the American army returned to Vincennes, where most of the troops were discharged. The Territorial Legislature, being in session, adopted resolutions complimentary to Gov. Harri- son and the officers and men under him, and made preparations for /» reception and celebration. ^ Capt. Logan, the eloquent Shawanee chief who assisted our forces so materially, died in the latter part of November, 1812, from the effects of a wound received in a skirmish with a recon- noitering party of hostile Indians accompanied by a white man in the British service, No7.'^22. luthat skirmish the white man was killed, and "Winamac, a Pottawatomie chief of some distinction, fell by the rifle of Logan. The latter was mortally wounded, when he retreated with two warriors of his tribe, Capt. Johnny and Bright-Horn, to the camp of Gen. Winchester, where he soon after- •ward died. He was buried witii the honors of war. WAR OF 1812 WITH GREAT BRITAIN. The victory recently gained by tlie Americans at the battle of Tippecanoe insured perfect peace for a time, but only a short time as the more extensive schemes of the British had so far ripened as to compel the United States again to declare war against them. Tecuraseh had fled to Maiden, Canada, where, counseled by the English, he continued to excite the tribes against the Americans. As soon as this war with Great Britain was declared (June 18, 1812), the Indians, as was expected, commenced again to commit depredations. During the summer of 1812 several points along the Lake Region succumbed to theBritish, as Detroit, under Gen. Hull, Fort Dearborn (now Chicago), commanded by Capt. Heald under Gen. Hull, the post at Mackinac, etc. In the early part of September, 1812, parties of hostile Indians began to assemble in considerable numbers in the vicinity of Forts Wayne and Harrison, with a view to reducing them. Capt. Rhea, at this time, had command of Fort Wayne, but his drinking pro- pensities rather disqualified him for emergencies. For two weeks the fort was in great jeopardy. An express had been sent to Gen. Harrison for reinforcements, but many days passed without any tidings of expected assistance. At length, one day, Maj. Wm. Oliver and four friendly Indians arrived at the fort on horseback. One of the Indians was the celebrated Logan. They had come in defiance of " 500 Indians," had ''broken their ranks" and reached the fort in safety. Oliver reported that Harrison was aware of the situation and was raising men for a re-enforcement. Ohio was also raising volunteers; 800 were then assembled at St. Mary's, Ohio, 60 miles south of Fort Wayne, and would march to the relief of the fort in three or four days, or as soon as they were joined by re- enforcements from Kentucky. Oliver prepared a letter, announcing to Gen. Harrison his safe ar- rival at the besieged fort, and giving an account of its beleaguered situation, which he dispatched by his friendly Shawanees, while he concluded to take his chances at the fort. Brave Logan and his companions started with the message, but had scarcely left the fort when they were discovered and pursued by the hostile Indians, yet passing the Indian lines in safety, they were soon out of reach. The Indians now began a furious attack upon the fort; but the little garrison, with Oliver to cheer them on, bravely met the assault, re- pelling the attack day after day, until the army approached to their relief. During this siege the commanding officer, whose habits of aon n 1U2 HISTOKY IIK INDIANA. intemperance rendered him unlit for the command, was confined in the '• black hole," while the junior officer assumed charge. This course was approved by the General, on his arrival, but Capt. Rhea received very little censure, probably on account of his valuable ser- vices in the Revolutionary war. Se]it. 6, 1S12, Harrison moved forward with his army to the re- lief of Fort Wayne; the next day he reached a point within three milesof St. Mary's river; the next day he reached the river and was joined at evening by 200 mounted volunteers, under Col. Rich- ard M. Johnson; the next day at "Shane's Crossing" on the St. Mary's they were joined by 800 men from Ohio, under Cols. Adams and Hawkins. At this place Chief Logan and four other Indians offered their services as spies to Gen. Harrison, and were accepted. Logan was immediately disguised and sent forward. Passing through the lines of the hostile Indians, he ascertained their number to be about 1,500, and entering the fort, he encouraged the solaiers to hold out, as relief was at hand. Gen. Harrison's force at this time was about 3,500. After an early breakfast Friday morning they were under march- ing orders; it had rained and the guns were damp; they were dis- charged and reloaded ; but that day only one Indian was encount- ered; preparations were made at night for an expected attack by the Indians, but no attack came; the next day, Sept. 10, they ex- pected to fight their way to Fort Wayne, but in that they were hap- pily disappointed ; and " At the first grey of the morning," as Bryce eloquently observes, "the distant halloos of the disappointed sav- ages revealed to the anxious inmates of the fort the glorious news of the approach of the army. Great clouds of dust could be seen from the fort, rolling up in the distance, as the valiant soldiery under Gen. Harrison moved forward to the rescue of the garrison and the brave boys of Kentucky and Ohio." This siege of Fort Wayne of course occasioned great loss to the few settlers who had gathered around the fort. At the time of its commencement quite a little village had clustered around the mili- tary works, but during the siege most of their improvements and crops were destroyed by the savages. Every building out of the reach of the guns of the fort was leveled to the ground, and thus the in- ifant settlement was destroyed. During this siege the garrison lost but three men, while the Indians lost 25. Gen. Harrison had all the Indian villages for 25 miles around destroyed. Furt Wayne was nothing but a military post until about 1S19. HISTOKY OF INDIANA. 103 Simultaneously with the attack on Fort Wa^'ne the Indians also besieged Fort Harrison, which was commanded by Zachary Taylor. The Indians commenced firing upon the fort about 11 o'clock one night, when the garrison was in a ratlier poor plight for receiving them. The enemy succeeded in firing one of tiie block-houses, which contained whisky, and the whites had great difliculty in pre- venting the burning of all the barracks. The word " fire " seemed to have thrown all the men into confusion; soldiers' and citizens' wives, who had taken shelter within the fort, were crying; Indians were yelling; many of the garrison were sick and unable to be on duty; the men despaired and gave themselves up as lost; two of the strongest and apparently most reliable men jumped the pickets in the very midst of the emergency, etc., so that Capt. Taylor was at his wit's end what to do; but he gave directions as to the many details, rallied the men by a new scheme, and after about seven hours succeeded in saving themselves. The Indians drove up the horses belonging to the citizens, and as they could not catch th<^m very readily, shot the whole of them in the sight of their owners, and also killed a number of the hogs belonging to the whites. They drove off all of the cattle, 65 in number, as well as the public oxen. Among many other depredations committed by the savages dur- ing this period, was the massacre of the Pigeon Roost settlement, consisting of one man, five women and 16 children; a few escaped. An unsuccessful effort was made to capture these Indians, but when the news of this massacre and the attack on Fort Harrison reached Vinceimes, about 1,200 men, under the command of Col. Wm. Russell, of the 7th U. S. Infantry, marched forth for the re- lief of the fort and to punish the Indians. On reaching the fort the Indians had retired from the vicinity; but on the 15th of Sep- tember a small detachment composed of 11 men, under Lieut. Rich- ardson, and acting as escort of provisions sent from Vincennes to Fort Harrison, was attacked by a party of Indians within the pres- ent limits of Sullivan count}'. It was reported that seven of these men were killed and one wounded. The provisions of course fell into the hands of the Indians. EXPEDITIONS AGAINST THE INDIANS. By the middle of August, through the disgraceful surrender of Gen. Hull, at Detroit, and the evacuation of Fort Dearborn and massacre of its garrison, the British and Indians were in possession of the whole Northwest. The savages, emboldened by their sue- 104 BISTORT OF INDIANA. cesses, penetrated deeper into the settlements, committing great depredations. The activity and success of the enemy aroused the people to a realization of the great danger their homes and lamilies were in. Gov. Edwards collected a force of 350 men at Camp Russell, and Capt. Russell came from Vincennes with about 50 more. Being officered and equipped, they proceeded about the middle of October on horseback, carrying with them 20 day's rations, to Peoria. Capt. Craig was sent with two boats up the Illinois, with provisions and tools to build a fort. The little army proceeded to Peoria Lake, where was located a Pottawatomie village. They arrived late at night, within a few miles of the village, without their presence being known to the Indians. Four men were sent out that night to reconnoiter the position of the village. The four brave men who volunteered for this perilous service were Thomas Carlin (afterward Governor), and Robert, Stephen and Davis White- side. They proceeded to the village, and explored it and the ap- proaches to it thoroughly, without starting an Indian or provoking the bark of a dog. The low lands between the Indian village and the troops were covered with a rank growth of tall grass, so high and dense as to readily conceal an Indian on horseback, until within a few feet of him. The ground had become still more yielding by recent rains, rendering it almost impassable by mounted men. To prevent detection the soldiers had camped without lighting the usual camp-fires. The men lay down in their cold and cheerless camp, with many misgivings. They well remembered how the skulking savages fell upon Harrison's men at Tippecanoe during the night. To add to their fears, a gun in the hands of a soldier was carelessly discharged, raising great consternation in the camp. Through a dense fog which prevailed the following morning, the army took up its line of march for the Indian town, Capt. Judy with his corps of spies in advance. In the tall grass they came up with an Indian and his squaw, both mounted. The Indian wanted to surrender, but Judy observed that he '• did not leave home to take prisoners," and instantly shot one of them. "With the blood streaming from his mouth and nose, and in his agony " singing the death song," the dying Indian raised his gun, shot and mortally wounded a Mr. Wright, and in a few minutes expired! Many gnna were immediately discharged at the other Indian, not then known to be a squaw, all of which missed her. Badly scared, and her hus- band killed by her side, the agonizing wails of the squaw were heart-rending. She was taken prisoner, and afterward restored to her nation. HISTOKT OF INDIANA. 105 On nearing tlie town a general charge was made, tlie Imlians fleeing to the interior wilderness. Some of their warriors made a stand, when a sharp engagement occurred, but the Indians were routed. In their flight they left behind all their winter's store of provisions, which was taken, and their town burned. Some Indian children were found who had been left in the hurried flight, also some disabled adults, one of whom was in a starving condition, and with a voracious appetite partook of the bread given him. He is said to have been killed by a cowardly trooper straggling behind, after the main army had resumed its retrograde march, who wanted to be able to boast that he had killed an Indian. September 19, 1812, Gen. Harrison was put in command of the Northwestern army, then estimated at 10,000 men, with these orders: "Having provided for the protection of the western front- ier, you will retake Detroit; and, with a view to the conquest of upper Canada, you will penetrate that country as far as the force under your command will in your judgment justify." Although surrounded by many difficulties, the General began immediately to execute these instructions. In calling for volun- teers from Kentucky, however, more men offered than could be received. At this time there were about 2,000 mounted volunteers at Vincennes, under the command of Gen. Samuel Hopkins, of the Revolutionary war, who was under instructions to operate against the enemy along the Wabash and Illinois rivers. Accordingly, early in October, Gen. Hopkins moved from Vincennes towards the Kickapoo villages in the Illinois territory, withaljout 2,000 troops; but after four or five days' march the men and officers raised a mutiny which gradually succeeded in carrying all back to Vin- cennes. The cause of their discontent is not apparent. About the same time Col. Russell, with two small companies of U. S. rangers, commanded by Capts. Perry and Modrell, marched from the neighborhood of Vincennes to unite with a small force of mounted militia under the command of Gov. Edwards, of Illinois, and afterward to march with the united troops from Cahokia toward Lake Peoria, for the purpose of co-operating with Gen. Hopkins against the Indian towns in that vicinity; but not find- ing the latter on the ground, was compelled to retire. Immediately after the discharge of the mutinous volunteers, Gen. Hopkins began to organize another force, mainly of infantry, to reduce the Indians up the Wabash as far as the Proi)het'st(>wn. These troops consisted of three regiments of Kentucky militia. 106 HISTORY OF INDIANA. coininanded by Cols. Barbour, Miller and Wilcox; a small company of regulars commanded by Capt. Zacliary Taylor; a com])any of rangers commanded by Capt. Beckes; and a company of scouts or spies under the command of Capt. Washburn. The main body of this army arrived at Fort Harrison Nov. 5; on the 11th it pro- ceeded up the east side of the Wabash into the heart of the Indian country, but found the villages generally deserted. Winter set- ting in severely, and the troops poorly clad, they had to return to Yincennes as rapidly as possible. With one exception the men behaved nobly, and did much damage to the enemy. That exception was the precipitate chase after an Indian by a detach- ment of men somewhat in liquor, until they found themselves sur- rounded by an overwiielming force of the enem}', and they had to retreat in disorder. At the close of this campaign Gen. Hopkins resigned his command. In the fall of 1812 Gen. Harrison assigned to Lieut. Col. John B. Campbell, of the 19th U. S. Inf., the duty of destroying the Miami villages on the Mississinewa river, with a detachment of about 600 men. Nov. 25, Lieut. Col. Campbell marched from Franklinton, according to orders, toward the scene of action, cau- tiously avoiding falling in with the Delawares, who had been ordered by Gen. Harrison to retire to the Shawanee establishment on the Auglaize river, and arriving on the Mississinewa Dec. 17, when they discovered an Indian town inhabited by Delawares and Miamis This and three other villages were destroyed. Soon after this, the sup])lie8 growing short and the troops in a suffering condition, Campbell began to consider the propriety of returning to Ohio; but just as he was calling together his officers early one morning to deliberate on the proposition, an army of Indians rushed upon them with fury. The engagement lasted an hour, with a loss of eight killed and 42 wounded, besides about 150 horses killed. The whites, however, succeeded in defending themselves and taking a number of Indians prisoners, who proved to be Mun- sies, of Silver Heel's band. Campbell, hewing that a large force of Indians were assembled at Mississinewa village, under Tecum- seh, determined to return to Greenville. The privations of his troops and the severity of the cold compelled him to send to that place for re-enforcements and supplies. Seventeen of the men had to be carried on litters. They were met by the re-enforcement about 40 miles from Greenville. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 107 Lieut. Col. Campbell sent two messages to the Delawares, who lived on White river and who had been previously directed and requested to abandon their towns on that river and remove into Ohio. In these messages he expressed his regret at iinfortunately killing some of their men, and urged them to move to the Shaw- anee settlement on the Auglaize river. lie assured them that their people, in his power, would be compensated by the Government for their losses, if not found to be hostile ; and the friends of those killed satisfied by presents, if such satisfaction would be received. This advice was heeded by the main body of the Delawares and a few Miarais. The Shawanee Prophet, and some of the principal chiefs of the Miamis, retired from the country of the Wabash, and, with their destitute and suffering bands, moved to Detroit, where the}' were received as the friends and allies of Great Britain. On the approach of Gen. Harrison with his army in September, 1813, the British evacuated Detroit, and the Ottawas, Chippewas, Pottawatomies, Miamis and Kickapoos sued for peace with the United States, wliich was granted temporarily by Brig. Gen. Mc- Arthur, on condition of their becoming allies of the United States in case of war. In June, 1813, an expedition composed of 137 men, under com- mand of Col. Joseph Bartholomew, moved from Valonia toward the Delaware towns on the west fork of White rivei", to surprise and punish some hostile Indians who were supposed to be lurking about those villages. Most of these places they found deserted; some of them burnt. They had been but temporarily occupied for the purpose of collecting and carrying away corn. Col. Bartholo- mew's forces succeeded in killing one or two Indians and destroy- ing considerable corn, and they returned to Valonia on the 21st of this month. July 1, 1813, Col. William Russell, of the 7th U. S., organized a force of 573 eflfective men at Valonia and marched to the Indian villages about tlie month of the Mississinewa. His experience was much like tiiat of Col. Bartholomew, who had just preceded him. He had rainy weather, suffered many losses, found tlie villages de- serted, destroyed stores of corn, etc. The Colonel reported that he went to every ])lace where he expected to find the enemy, but they nearly always seemed to have fled the country. The march from Valonia to the mouth of the Mississinewa and return was about 250 miles. Several smaller expeditions helped to "checker" the surrounding 108 IIISTOKV OF INDIANA. country, and find that the Indians were very careful to keep tbem- selves out of sight, and thus closed this series of campaigns. CLOSE OF THE WAR. The war with England closed on the 24th of December, 1814, when a treaty of peace was signed at Ghent. The 9th article of the treaty required the United States to put an end to hostilities with all tribes or nations of Indians with whom they had been at war; to restore to such tribes or nations respectively all the rights and possessions to which they were entitled in 1811, before the war, on condition that such Indians should agree to desist from all hostilities against the United States. But in February, just before the treaty was sanctioned by our Government, there were signs of Indians accumulating arms and ammunition, and a cautionary order was therefore issued to have all the white forces in readiness for an attack by the Indians ; but the attack was not made. During the ensuing summer and fall the United States Government ac- quainted the Indians with the provisions of the treaty, and entered into subordinate treaties of peace with the principal tribes. Just before the treaty of Spring Wells (near Detroit) was signed, the Shawanee Prophet retired to Canada, but declaring his resolu- tion to abide by any treaty which the chiefs might sign. Some time afterward he returned to the Shawanee settlement in Ohio, and lastly to the west of the Mississippi, where he died, in 1S34. The British Government allowed him a pension from 1813 until his death, llis brother Tecuraseh was killed at the battle of the Thames, Oct. 5, 1813, by a Mr. Wheatty, as we are positively in- formed by Mr. A. J. James, now a resident of La Harpe township, Hancock county, 111., whose father-in-law, John Pigman, of Co- shocton county, Ohio, was an eye witness. Gen. Johnson has gener- ally had the credit of killing Tccumsuh. ^.■sss»»^' TEOCJISEU. ill TECUMSEH. If one should inquire who has been the greatest Indian, the most noted, the "principal Indian " in North America since its discov- ery by Columbus, we would be obliged to answer, Tecumseh. For all those qualities which elevate a man far above his race; for talent, tact, skill and bravery as a warrior; for high-minded, honorable and chivalrous bearing as a man; in a word, for all those elements of greatness which place him a long way above his fellows in savage life, the name and fame of Tecnmseh will go down to posterity in the West as one of the most celebrated of the aborigines of this continent, — as one who had no equal among the tribes that dwelt in the country drained by the Mississippi. Born to command him- self, he used all the appliances that would stimulate the courage and nerve the valor of his followers. Always in the front rank of battle, his followers blindly followed liis lead, and as his war-cry rang clear above tlie din and noise of the battle-field, the Shawnee warriors, as they rushed on to victory or the grave, rallied around him, foemen worthy of the steel of the most gallant commander that ever entered the lists in defense of his altar or his home. The tribe to which Tecumseh, or Tecumtha, as some write it, be- longed, was the Shawnee, or Shawanee. The tradition of the nation held that they originally came from the Gulf of Mexico; that they wended their way up the Mississippi and the Ohio, and settled at or near the present site of Shawneetown, 111., whence they removed to the upper "Wabash. In the latter place, at any rate, they were found early in the ISth century, and were known as the " bravest of the brave." This tribe has uniformly been the bitter enemy of the white man, and in every contest with our people has exhibited a degree of skill and strategy tliat should characterize the most dangerous foe. Tecumseh's notoriety and that of his brother, the Prophet, mutu- ally served to establish and strengthen each other. While the Prophet had unlimited power, spiritual and temporal, hedistributed his greatness in all the departments of Indian life with a kind of fanaticism that magnetically aroused the religious and superstitious passions, not only of his own followers, but also of all the tribes in •<1U) 112 HISroKV OF IMHANA. this part of the country; but Tecuraseh concentrated his greatness upon the more practical and business affairs of military conquest. It is doubted whether he was really a sincere believer in the preten- sions of his fanatic brother; if he did not believe in the pretentious feature of them he had the shrewdness to keep his unbelief to him- self, knowing that religious fanaticism was one of the strongest im- pulses to reckless bravery. During his sojourn in the Northwestern Territor}', it was Tecnm- seh's uppermost desire of life to confederate all the Indian tribes of the country together against the whites, to maintain their choice hunting-grounds. All his public policy converged toward this sin- gle end. In his vast scheme he comprised even all the Indians in the Gulf country, — all in America west of the Alleghany moun- tains. He held, as a subordinate principle, that the Great Spirit had given the Indian race all these hunting-grounds to keep in common, and that no Indian or tribe could cede any portion of the land to the whites without the consent of all the tribes. Hence, in all his councils with the whites he ever maintained that the treaties were null and void. When he met Harrison at Vincennes in council the last time, and, as he was invited by that General to take a seat with him on the platform, he hesitated; Harrison insisted, saying that it was the "wish of their Great Father, the President of the United States, that he should do so." The chief paused a moment, raised his tall and commanding form to its greatest height, surveyed the troops and crowd around hini, iixed his keen eyes upon Gov. Harrison, and then turning them to the sky above, and pointing toward heaven with his sinewy arm in a manner indicative of supreme contempt for the paternity assigned him, said in clarion tones: " ]My father? The sun is my father, the earth is my mother, and on her bosom I will recline." He then stretched himself, with his war- riors, on the green sward. Tlie effect was electrical, and for some moments there was perfect silence. The Governor, then, through an interpreter, told him that he un- derstood he had some complaints to make and redress to ask, etc., and that he wished to investigate the matter and make restitution wherever it might be decided it should be done. As soon as the Governor was through with this introductory speech, the stately warrior arose, tall, athletic, manly, dignified and graceful, and with a voice at first low, but distinct and musical, commenced a reply. As he warmed up with his subject his clear tones might be heard, flISTOEY OF INDIANA. 113 as if " trumpet-tongiied," to the utmost limits of the assembly. The most perfect silence prevailed, e.\cept when his warriors gave their guttural assent to some eloquent recital of the red man's wrong and the white man's injustice. Tecuniseh recited the wrongs which his race had suffered from die ti.iie of the massacre of the Moravian Indians to the present; said he did not know how he could ever again be the friend of the white man; that the Great Spirit had given to the Indian all the land from the Miami to the Mississippi, and from the lakes to the Ohio, as a commou property to all the tribes in these borders, and that the land could not and should not be sold without the consent of all; that all the tribes on the continent formed but one nation; that if the United States would not give up the lands they had bought of the Miamis and the other tribes, those united with him were determined to annihi- late those tribes; that they were determined to have no more chiefs, but in future to be governed by their warriors; that unless the whites ceased their encroachments upon Indian lands, the fate of the Indians was sealed; they had been driven from the banks of the Delaware across the Alleghanies, and their possessions on the Wabash and the Illinois were now to be taken from them; that in a few years they would not have ground enough to bury their war riors on this side of the "Father of Waters;" that all would perish, all their possessions taken from them by fraud or force, unless they stopped the progress of the white man westward; that it must be a war of races in which one or the other must perish; that their tribes had been driven toward the setting sun like a gallojiing horse (ne-kat a-kush-e ka-top-o-lin-to). The Shawnee language, in which this most eminent Indian states- man spoke, excelled all other aboriginal tongues in its musical ar- ticulation; and the eifect of Tecumseh's oratory on this ociasion can be more easily imagined than described. Gov. Harrison, although as brave a soldier and General as any American, was over- come by this speech. He well knew Tecumseh's power and influ- ence among all the tribes, knew his bravery, courage and determi- nation, and knew that he meant what he said. When Tecumseh was done speaking there was a stillness throughout the assembly which was really jtainful; not a whisper was heard, and all eyes were turned from the speaker toward Gov. Harrison, who after a few moments came to himself, and recollecting many of the absurd statements of the great Indian orator, began a reply which was more logical, if not so eloquent. The Shawnees were attentive uu- 114 HISTORY OF INDIANA. til Harrison's interpreter began to translate bis speech to the Mia- mis and Pottawatomies, when Tecumseh and his warriors sprang to their feet, brandishing their war-clubs and tomahawks. "Tell him," said Tecumseh, addressing the interpreter in Shawnee, " he lies." The interpreter undertook to convey this message to the Governor in smoother language, but Tecumseh noticed the effort and remonstrated, " No, no; tell him belies." The warriors began to grow more excited, when Secretary Gibson ordered the Ameri- can troops in arras to advance. This allayed the rising storm, and as soon as Tecumseh's " He lies " was literally interpreted to the Governor, the latter told Tecumseh through the interpreter to tell Tecumseh he would hold no further council with him. Thus the assembly was broken up, and one can hardly imagine a more exciting scene. It would constitute the finest subject for a historical painting to adorn the rotunda of the capitol. The next day Tecumseh requested another interview with the Governor, which was granted on condition that he should make an apology ta the Governor for his language the day before. This he made through the interpreter. Measures for defense and protection were taken, however, lest there should be another outbreak. Two com- panies of militia were ordered from the country, and the one in town added to them, while the Governor and his friends went into council fully armed and prepared for any contingency. On this oc- casion the conduct of Tecumseh was entirely different from tliat of the day before. Firm and intrepid, showing not the slightest fear or alarm, surrounded with a military force four times his own, he preserved the utmost composure and equanimity. No one would have supposed that he could have been the principal actor in the thrilling scene of the previous day. He claimed that half the Americans were in sympathy with him. He also said that whites had informed him that Gov. Harrison had purchased land from the Indians without any authority from the Government; that he, Harrison, had but two years more to remain in office, and that if he, Tecumseh, could prevail upon the Indians who sold the lands not to receive their annuities for that time, and the present Gover- nor displaced by a good man as his successor, the latter would re- store to the Indians all the lands purchased from them. The Wyandots, Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Ottawas and the Win- nebagoes, through their respective spokesmen, declared their adherence to the great Shawnee warrior and statesman. Gov. Harri- son then told them that he would send Tecumseh's speech to thePresi- HISTORTOF INDIANA. 115 dent of the United States and return the answer to tlie Indians as soon as it was received. Tecumseh then declared that he and his allies were determined that the old boundary line should continue; and that if the whites crossed it, it would be at their peril . Gov. Harrison re- plied that he would be equally plain with him and state that the President would never allow that the lands on the Wabash were the property of any other tribes than those who had occupied them since the white people first came to America; and as the title to the lands lately purchased was derived from those tribes by a fair purchase, he might rest assured that the right of the United States would be supported by the sword. " So be it," was the stern and haughty reply of the Shawnee chieftan, as he and his braves took leave of the Governor and wended their way in Indian file to their camping ground. Thus ended the last conference on earth between the chivalrous Tecumseh and the hero of the battle of Tippecanoe. The bones ot* the first lie bleaching on the battle-field of the Thames, and those of the last in a mausoleniu on the banks of the Ohio; each strus- ^led for the mastery of his race, apur .continent, or, if not fleJ, is at least asleep, for it appears not to pervade our armies generally. At your last assemblage our politi- cal horizon seemed clear, and our infant Territory bid fair for rapid ;and rising grandeur; but, alas, the scene has changed; and whether rthis change, as respects our Territory, has been owing to an over :anxi£ty in us to extend our dominions, or to a wish for retaliation '(by .\ FOUKST. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 125 persons of color legally entitled to their freedom; and at the same time, as far as practicable, to prevent those who rightfully owe ser- vice to the citizens of any other State or Territory from seeking within the limits of this State a refuge from the possession of their lawful owners. Such a measure will tend to secure those who are free from any unlawful attempts (to enslave them) and secures the rights of the citizens of the other States and Territories as far as ought reasonably to be expected." This session of the Legislature elected James Noble and Waller Taylor to the Senate of the United States; Robert A. New was elected Secretary of State; W. H. Lilley, Auditor of State; and Daniel C. Lane, Treasurer of State. The session adjourned Janu- ary 3, 1817. As the history of the State of Indiana from this time forward is best given by topics, we will proceed to give them in the chronolog- ical order of their origin. The happy close of the war with Great Britain in 1814 was fol- lowed by a great rush of immigrants to the great Territory of the Northwest, including the new States, all now recently cleared of the enemy; and by 1820 the State of Indiana had more than doubled her population, having at this time 147,178, and by 1825 nearly doubled this again, that is to say, a round quarter of a mil- lion,^ — a growth more rapid probably than that of any other section in this country since the days of Columbus. The period lS25-'30 was a prosperous time for the young State. Immigration continued to be rapid, the crops were generally good and the hopes of the people raised higher than they had ever been before. Accompanying this immigration, however, were paupers and indolent people, who threatened to be so numerous as to become a serious burden. On this subject Governor Ray called for legislative action, bnt the Legislature scarcely knew what to do and they deferred action. BLACK HAWK WAR. In 1830 there still lingered within the bounds of the State two tribes of Indians, whose growing indolence, intemperate habits, dependence upon their neighbors for the bread of life, diminished prospects of living by the chase, continued perpetration of murders, and other outrages of dangerous precedent, primitive igno- rance and unrestrained exhibitions of savage customs before the children of the settlers, combined to make them subjects for a more rigid government. The removal of the Indians west of tiie Missis- sippi was a melancholy but necessary duty, ^he time having- arrived for the emigration of the Pottawatomies, according to the stipulations contained in their treaty with the United States, they evinced that reluctance common among aboriginal tribes on leav- ing the homes of their childhood and the graves of their ancestors. Love of country is a principle planted in the bosoms of all man- kind. The Laplander and the Esquimaux of the frozen north» who feed on seals, moose and the meat of thepolar bear, would not exchange their country for the sunny clime of "Araby the blest.'* Color and shades of complexion have nothing to do with the heart's best, warmest emotions. Then we should not wonder that the Pottawatomie, on leaving his home on the Wabash, felt as sad as -iEschines did when ostracised from his native land, laved bv the waters of the classic Scamander; and the noble and eloquent Nas- waw-kay, on leaving the encampment on Crooked creek, felt his, banishment as keenly as Cicero when thrust from the bosom of hie. beloved Rome, for which he had spent the best efforts of his life,, and for which he died. On Sunday morning. May 18, 1832, the people on the west side of the Wabash were thrown into a state of great consternation, on account of a report that a large body of hostile Indians had approached within 15 miles of Lafayette and killed two men. The alarm soon spread tliroughout Tippecanoe, Warren, Vermillion, Fountain, Montgomery, and adjoining counties. Several brave commandants of companies on the west side of the Wabash in Tippecanoe county, raised troops to go and meet the enemy, and dispatched an express to Gen. Walker with a request that he should (126) niETuET OF INDIANA. 127 make a call upon the militia of the county to equip themselves instantly and march to the aid of their bleeding countrymen. Thereupon Gen. Walker, Col. Davis, Lieut-Col. Jenners, Capt. Brown, of the artillery, and various other gallant spirits mounted their war steeds and proceeded to the army, and thence upon a scout to the Grand Prairie to discover, if possible, the number, intention and situation of the Indians. Over 300 old men, women and children flocked precipitately to Lafayette and the surrounding country east of the Wabash. A remarkable event occurred in this stampede, as follows: A man, wife and seven children resided on the edge of the Grand Prairie, west of Lafayette, in a locality considered particu- larly dangerous. On hearing of this alarm he made hurried preparations to fly with his family to Lafayette for safety. Lnag- ine his surprise and chagrin when his wife told him she would not go one step; that she did not believe in being scared at trifles, and in her opinion there was not an Indian within 100 miles of them. Importunity proved unavailing, and the disconsolate and frightened husband and father took all the children except the youngest, bade his wife and babe a long and solemn farewell, never expecting to see them again, unless perhaps he might find their mangled re- mains, minus their scalps. On arriving at Lafayette, his acquaint- ances rallied and berated him for abandoning his wife and child in that way, but he met their jibes with a stoical indifference, avowing that he should not be held responsible for their obstinacy. As the shades of the first evening drew on, the wife felt lonely; and the chirping of the frogs and the notes of the whippoorwill only intensified her loneliness, until she half wished she had accom- panied the rest of the family in their flight. She remained in the house a .ew hours without striking a light, and then concluded that '* discretion was the better part of valor," took her babe and some bed-clothes, fastened the cabin door, and hastened to a sink- hole in the woods, in which she afterward said that she and her babe slept soundly until sunrise next morning. Lafayette literally boiled over with people and patriotism. A meeting was held at the court-house, speeches were made by patriotic individuals, and to allay the fears of the women an armed police was immediately ordered, to be called the " Lafayette Guards." Thos. T. Benbridge was elected Captain, and John Cox, Lieutenant. Capt. Benbridge yielded the active drill of his guards to the Lieutenant, who had served two years in the war of 1812. After 128 HISTORY OF INDIANA. the meeting adjourned, the guards were paraded on the green wliere Purdue's block now stands, and put through sundry evohi- tions by Lieut. Cox, who proved to be an expert drill officer, and whose clear, shrill voice rung out on the night air as he marched and counter- marched the troops from where the paper-mill stands to Main street ferry, and over the suburbs, generallj'. Every old gun and sword tliat could be found was brought into requisition, with a new shine on them. Gen. Walker, Colonels Davis and Jenners, and other officers joined in a call of the people of Tippecanoe county for volunteers to inarch to the frontier settlements. A large meeting of the citizens assembled in the public square in the town, and over 300 volunteers mostly mounted men, left for the scene of action, with an alacrity that would have done credit to veterans. The first night they camped nine miles west of Lafayette, near Grand Prairie. They placed sentinels for the night and retired to rest. A few of the subaltern officers very injudiciously concluded to try what effect a false alarm would have upon the sleeping sol- diers, and a few of theia withdrew to a neighboring thicket, and thence made a charge upon the picket guards, who , after hailing them and receiving no countersign, fired off their guns and ran for the Colonel's marquee in the center of the encampment. The aroused Colonels and staff sprang to their feet, shouting "To arms! to arms!" and the obedient, though panic-stricken soldiers seized their guns and demanded to be led against the invading foe. A wild scene of disorder ensued, and amid the din of arms and loud commands of the officers the raw militia felt that they had already got into the red jaws of battle. One of the alarm sentinels, in running to the center of the encampment, leaped over a blazing camp fire, and alighted full upon the breast and stomach of a sleeping lawyer, who was, no doubt, at that moment dreaming of vested and contingent remainders, rich clients and good fees, which in legal parlance was suddenly estopped by the hob-nails in the stogas of the scared sentinel. As soon as the counselor's vitality and consciousness sufficiently returned, ho put in some strong demurrers to the con- duct of the affrighted picket men, averring that he would greatly prefer being wounded by the enemy to being run over by a cowardly booby. Next morning the organizers of the ruse were severely reprimanded. May 28, 1832, Governor Noble ordered General Walker to call out liis whole command, if necessary, and supply arms, horses and HISTORY OF INDIANA. 12D provisions, even though it be necessary to seize tliem. The next day four baggage wagons, loaded with camp equipments, stores, provisions and other articles, were sent to the little army, who were thus provided for a campaign of five or six weeks. The following Thursday a squad of cavalry, under Coloudl Sigler, passed through Lafayette on the way to the hostile region ; and on the 13th of June Colonel Russell, commandant of the iOth Regiment, Indiana Militia, passed through Lafayette with 340 mounted volunteers from the counties of Marion, Hendricks and Johnson. Also, several com- panies of volunteers from Montgomery, Fountain and Warren counties, hastened to the relief of the frontier settlers. The troops from Lafayette marched to Sugar creek, and after a short time, there being no probability of finding any of the enemy, were ordered to return, Tliey all did so except about 4.5 horsemen, who volunteered to cross Hickory creek, where the Indians had com- mitted their depredations. They organized a company by electing Samuel McGeorge, a soldier of the war of 1812, Captain, and Amos Allen and Andrew W. Ingraliam, Lieutenants. Crossing Hickory creek, they marched as far as O'Plein river without meeting with opposition. Finding no enemy here they concluded to return. On the first night of their march home they encamped on the open prairie, posting sentinels, as usual. About ten o'clock it began to rain, and it was with diflBculty that the sen- tinels kept their guns dry. Capt. I. H. Cox and a man named Fox had been posted as sentinels within 1.5 or 20 paces of each other. Cox drew the skirt of his overcoat over his gun-lock to keep it dry; Fox, perceiving this motion, and in the darkness taking him for an Indian, fired upon him and fractured his thigh-bone. Several sol- diers immediately ran toward the place where the flash of the gun bad been seen ; but when they cocked and leveled their guns on the figure which had fired at Cox, the wounded man caused them to desist by crying, " Don't shoot him, it was a sentinel who shot me." The next day the wounded man was left behind the company in caie of four men, who, as soon as possible, removed him on a litter to Col. Moore's company of Illinois militia, then encamped on the O'Plein, where Joliet now stands. Although the main body returned to Lafayette in eight or nine days, yet the alarm among the people was so great that they could not be induced to return to their farms for some time. The pres- ence of the hostiles was hourly expected by the frontier settlements of Indiana, from Vincennes to La Porte. In Clinton county the 130 HISTORY OF INDIANA. inhabitants gathered within the forts and prepared for a regular siege, while our neighbors at Crawfordsville were suddenly astounded by the arrival of a courier at full speed with the announce- ment that the Indians, more than a thousand in number, were then crossing the Nine-Mile prairie about twelve miles north of town, killing and scalping all. The strongest houses were immediately put in a condition of defense, and sentinels were placed at the prin- cipal points in the direction of the enemy. Scouts were sent out to reconnoitre, and messengers were dispatched in different directions to announce the danger to the farmers, and to urge them to hasten with their families into town, and to assist in fighting the moment- arily expected savages. At night-fall the scouts brought in the news that the Indians had not crossed the Wabash, but were hourly expected at Lafayette. The citizens of Warren, Fountain and Ver- million counties were alike terrified by exaggerated stories of Indian massacres, and immediately prepared for defense. It turned out that the Indians were not within 100 miles of these temporary forts; but this by no means proved a want of courage in the citizens. After some time had elapsed, a portion of the troops were marched back into Tippecanoe county and honorably discharged ; but the settlers were still loth for a long time to return to their farms. Assured by published reports that the Miamis and Potta- watomies did not intend to join the hostiles, the people by degrees recovered from the panic and began to attend to their neglected crops. During this time there was actual war in Illinois. Black Hawk and his warriors, well nigh surrounded by a well-disciplined foe, attempted to cross to the west bank of the Mississippi, but after being chased up into Wisconsin and to the Mississippi again, he was in a final battle taken captive. A few years after his liberation, about 1837 or 1838, he died, on the banks of the Des Moines river, in Iowa, in what is now the county of Davis, where his remains were deposited above ground, in the usual Indian style. His re- mains were afterward stolen and carried away, but they were re- covered by the Governor of Iowa and placed in the museum of the Historical Society at Burlington, where they were finally destroyed by fire. LAST EXODUS OF THE INDIANS. In July, 1837, Col. Abel C. Pepper convened the Pottawatomie nation of Indians at Lake Ke-waw-nay for the purpose of remov- ing them west of the Mississippi. That fall a small party of some 80 or 90 Pottawatomies was conducted west of the Mississippi river by George Prolfit, Esq. Among the number were Ke-waw- nay, Nebash, Nas-waw-kay, Pash-po-ho and many other leading men of the nation. The regular emigration of these poor Indians, about 1,000 in number, took place under Col. Pepper and Gen. Tip- ton in the summer of 1838. It was a sad and mournful spectacle to witness these children of the forest slowly retiring from the home of their childhood, that contained not only the graves of their revered ancestors, but also many endearing scenes to which their memories would ever recur as sunny spots along their pathway through the wilderness. They felt that they were bidding farewell to the hills, valleys and streams of their infancy; the more exciting hunting-grounds of their ad- vanced youth, as well as the stern and bloody battle-fields where they had contended in riper manhood, on which they had received wounds, and where many of their friends and loved relatives had fallen covered with gore and with glory. All these they were leav- ing behind them, to be desecrated by the plowshare of the white man. As they cast mournful glances back toward these loved scenes that were rapidly fading in the distance, tears fell from the cheek of the downcast warrior, old men trembled, matrons wept, the swarthy maiden's cheek turned pale, and sighs and half-sup- pressed sobs escaped from the motley groups as tiiey passed along, some on foot, some on horseback, and others in wagons, — sad as a funeral procession. Several of the aged warriors were seen to cast glances toward the sky, as if they were imploring aid from the spirits of their departed heroes, who were looking down upon them from tlie clouds, or from the Great Sjjirit, who would ultimately redress the wrongs of the red man, whose broken bow had fallen from his hand, and whose sad heart was bleeding within him. Ever and anon one of the party would start out into the brush and break back to their old encampmetitson Eel river and on the Tippe- (131) 132 HISTOEY OF INDIANA. canoe, declaring that they would rather die than be banished frcnn their country. Thus, scores of discontented emigrants returned from different points on their journey; and it was several years before they conld be induced to join their .countrymen west of the Mississippi. / Several years after the removal of the Pottawatomies the Miami nation was removed to their Western home, by coercive means, un- der an escort of United States troops. They were a proud and once powerful nation, but at the time of their removal were far inferior, in point of numbers, to the Pottawatomie guests whom they had permitted to settle and hunt upon their lands, and fish iti iheir lakes and rivers after they had been driven southward by powerful and warlike tribes who inhabited the shores of the North- ern lakes. INDIAN TITLES. In 1831 a joint resolution of the Legislature of Indiana, request- ing an appropriation by Congress for the extinguishment of tiic Indian title to lands within tlie State, was forwarded to that bodyi ^which granted the request. The Secretary of "War, by authority, appointed a committee of three citizens to carry into effect the pro- visions of the recent law. The Miamis were surrounded on all sides by American settlers, and were situated almost in the heart of the State on the line of the canal then being made. The chiefs -rep- aration for the war, it being resolved to invade Mexico at several points. In pursuance of this plan. General Taylor, who had taken HISTOKY OF INDIANA. 139 possession of Matamoras, abandoned by the enemy in May, iiiarclied northward in the enemy's country in August, and on the 19th of September he appeared before Monterey, capital of the Mexican State of New Leon. His army, after having garrisoned several places along his route, amounted to six thousand men. The attack began on the 21st, and after a succession of assaults, during the period of four days, the Mexicans capitulated, leaving the town in possession of the Americans. In October, General Taylor terminated an armistice into which he had entered with the Mexican General, and again commenced offensive operations. Various towns and fortresses of the enemy now rapidly fell into •our possession. In Xovember, Saltillo, the capital of the State of Coahuila was occupied by tlie division of General Worth; in December, General Patterson took possession of Victoria, the capital of Tamaulipas, and nearly at the same period, Commodore Perry captured the fort of Tampico. Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, with the whole territory of the State liad been subjugated by General Harney, after a march of one thousand miles through the wilderness. Events of a startling char- acter had taken place at still earlier dates along the Pacific coast. On the 4th of Juh , Captain Fremort, having repeatedly defeated su- perior Mexican forces with tiie small band under his command, de- clared California independent of Mexico. Other important places in this region had yielded to the American naval force, and in Au- gust, 1846, the wliole of California was in the undisputed occupa- tion of the Americans. The year 1847 opened with still more brilliant victories on the part of our armies. By the drawins off of a large part of "General Taylor's troops for a meditated attack on Vera Cruz, he was left with a comparatively small force to meet the great body of Mexican troops, now marching upon him, under command of the celebrated Santa Anna, who had again become President of Mexico. Ascertaining the advance of this powerful army, twenty thou- sand strong, and consisting of the best of the Mexican soldiers, in an impetuous assault, which lasted but seventeen minutes. On the same day an attack was made by the Americans on the fortified post of Churubusco, four miles northeast of Contreras Here nearly the entire Mexican army — more than 20,000 in number — were posted; but they were defeated at every point, and obliged to seek a retreat in the cit^', or the still remaining fortress of Cbapul- tepec. While preparations were being made on the 21st by Gen- eral Scott, to level his batteries against the city, prior to summon- ing it to surrender, he received propositions from the enemy, which terminated in an armistice. This ceased on the 7th of September. On the Sth the outer defense of Chapultepec was successfully HISTORY OF INDIANA. 1-il stormed by General Worth, though he lost one-fourth of his men in the desperate struggle. The castle of Chapultepec, situated on an abrupt and rocky eminence, 150 feet above the snrrounding country, presented a most formidable object of attack. On the 12th, however, the batteries were opened against it, and on the next day the citadel was carried by storm. The Mexicans still strug- gled along the great causeway leading to the city, as the Americans advanced, but before nightfal a part of our army was within the gates of the city. Santa Anna and the officers of the Government fled, and the next morning, at seven o'clock, the flag of the Ameri- cans floated from tlie national palace of Mexico. This conquest of the capital was the great and final achievement of the war. The Mexican republic was in fact prostrate, her sea-coast and chief cities being in the occupation of our troops. On the 2d of Feb- ruary, ISiS, terms of peace were agreed upon by the American commissioner and the Mexican Government, this treaty being rati- fied by the Mexican Congress on the 30th of May following, and by the United States soon after. President Polk proclaimed peace on the 4th of July, 1848. In the preceding sketch we have given only a mere outline of the war with Mexico. We have necessarily passed over many interesting events, and have not even named many of our soldiers who performed gallant and important ser- vices. General Taylor's successful operations in the region of the Eio Grande were duly honored by the people of the United States, by bestowing upon him tlie Presidency. General Scott's campaign, from the attack on Vera Cruz, to the surrender of the city of Mexico, was far more remarkable, and, in a military point of view, must be considered as one of the most brilliant of modern times. It is true the Mexicans are not to be ranked with the great nations of the earth; with a population of seven or eight millions, they have little more than a million of the white race, the rest being half-civ- ilized Indians and mestizos, that is, those of mixed blood. Their government is inefficient, and the people divided among them- selves. Their soldiers often fought bravely, but they were badly officered. While, therefore, we may consider the conquest of so extensive and populous a country, in so short a time, and attended with such constant superiority even to the greater numbers of the enemy, as highly gratifying evidence of the courage and capacity of our army, still we must not, in judging of our achievements, fail to consider the real weakness of the nation whom we vanquished. 142 HISTORY OF INDIANA. One thing we may certainly dwell upon with satisfaction — the ad- mirable example, not onl}' as a soldier, but as a man, set by our com- mander. Gen. Scott, who seems, in the midst of war and the ordinary license of the camp, always to have preserved the virtue, kindness, and humanity belonging to a state of peace. These qualities secured to him the respect, confidence and good-will even of the enemy he had conquered. Among the Generals who effectually aided General Scott in this remarkable campaign, we must not omit to mention the names of Generals Wool, Twiggs, Shields,. Worth, Smith, and Quitman, who generally added to the high qualities of soldiers the still more estimable characteristics of good men. The treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo stipulated that the disputed territory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande should belong to the United States, and it now forms a part of Texas, as has been already stated; that the United States should assume and pay the debts due from Mexico to American citizens, to the amount of $3,500,000; and that, in consideration of the sum of $15,000,000 to be paid by the United States to Mexico, the latter should relinquish to the former the whole of New Mexico and Upper California. The soldiers of Indiana who served in this war were formed into five regiments of volunteers, numbered respectively, 1st, 2d, 3rd, 4th and 5th. The fact that companies of the three first-named reg- iments served at times with the men of Illinois, the New York volunteers, the Palmettos of South Carolina, and United States marines, under Gen. James Shields, makes for them a history; be- cause the campaigns of the Rio Grande and Chihuahua, the siege of Vera Cruz, the desperate encounter at Cerro Gordo, the tragic contests in the valley, at Contreras and Churubusco, the storming of Chapultepec, and the planting of the stars and stripes upon every turret and spire within the conquered city of Mexico, were all carried out by the gallant troops under the favorite old General, and consequently each of them shared with him in the glories at- tached to snch exploits. The other regiments under Cols. Gorman and Lane participated in the contests of the period under other com- manders. The 4tli Regiment of Indiana Volunteers, comprising ten companies, was formally organized at Jeffersonville, Indiana, by Capt. R. C. Gatlin, June 15, 1S47, and on the 16th elected Major Willis A. Gorman, of the 3rd Regiment, to the Colonelcy; Ebenezer Dumont, Lieutenant-Colonel, and W. McCoy, Major. On the 27th of June the regiment left Jefiersonville for the front, and HISTORY OF INDIANA. 143 subsequently was assigned to Brigadier-General Lane's command, which then comprised a battery of five pieces from the 3rd Regi- ment U. S. Artillery; a battery of two pieces from the 2nd Regiment U. S. Rrtillery, the 4tli Regiment of Indiana Volunteers and the 4th Regiment of Ohio, with a squadron of mounted Louisianians and detachments of recruits for the U. S. army. The troops of this brigade won signal honors at Fasso de Ovegas, August 10, 1847; National Bridge, on the 12th; Cerro Gordo, on the 16th; Las Ani- mas, on the 19th, under Maj. F. T. Lally, of General Lane's staff, and afterward under Lane, directly, took a very prominent part in the siege of Puebla, which began on the 15th of September and terminated on the 12th of October. At Atlixco, October 19th; Tlascala, November 10th; Matamoras and Pass Galajara, Novem- ber 23rd and 24th; Guerrilla Ranche, December 5th; Napaloncan, December 10th, the Indiana volunteers of the 4th Regiment per- formed gallant service, and carried the campaign into the following year, representing their State at St. Martin's, February 27, 1848; Cholula, March 26th; Matacordera, February 19tli; Sequalteplan, February 25th; and on the cessation of hostilities reported at Madison, Indiana, for discharge, July 11, 1848; while the 5th In- diana Regiment, under Col. J. H. Lane, underwent a similar round of duty during its service with other brigades, and gained some celebrity at Yera Cruz, Churubusco and with the troops of Illinois under Gen. Shields at Chapultepec. This war cost the people of the United States sixty-six millions of dollars. This very large amount was not paid away for the at- tainment of mere glory; there was something else at stake, and this something proved to be a country larger and more fertile than the France of the Napoleons, and more steady and sensible than the France of the Republic. It was the defense of the great Lone Star State, the humiliation and chastisement of a quarrelsome neighbor. SLAVERY. We have already referred to the prohibition of slavery in the Northwestern Territory, and Indiana Territory by the ordinance of 17S7; to the imperfection in the execution of this ordinance and the troubles which the authorities encountered; and the complete estab- lishment of the principles of freedom on the organization of the State. The next item of significjtnce in this connection is the following lan- guage in the message of Gov. Ray to the Legislature of 1S28: " Since onr last separation, while we have witnessed with anxious solicitude the belligerent operations of another hemisphere, the cross contend- ing against the crescent, and the prospect of a general rupture among the legitimates of other quarters of the globe, our attention has been arrested by proceedings in our own country truly dangerous to liberty, seriously premeditated, and disgraceful to its authors if agitated only to tamper with the American people. If such ex- periments as we see attempted in certain deluded quarters do not tail with a burst of thunder upon the heads of their seditious pro- jectors, then indeed the Republic has begun to experience the days of its degeneracy. The union of these States is the people's only sure charter for their liberties and independence. Dissolve it and each State will soon be in a condition as deplorable as Alexander's conquered countries after they were divided amongst his victorious military captains." In pursuance of a joint resolution of the Legislature of 1850, a block of native marble was procured and forwarded to Washington, to be placed in the monument then in the course of erection at the National Capital in memory of George Washington. In the absence of any legislative instruction concerning the inscription upon this emblem of Indiana's loyalty, Gov. Wright ordered the following words to be inscribed upon it: Indiana Knows No NoKTH, No South, Nothing but the Union. Within a dozen years thereafter this noble State demonstrated to the world her loy- alty to the Union and the principles of freedom by the sacrifice of blood and treasure which she made. In keeping with this senti- ment Gov. Wright indorsed the compromise measures of Congress on the slavery question, remarking in his message that " Indiana takes her stand in the ranks, not of Southern destiny, nor yet of (144) SCENE I'N I III WAI-.ASn B!VEIt. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 14j Northern destiny: she plants herself on the basis of the Consti- tution and takes her stand in the ranks of American destiny." FIFTEENTH AMENDMENT. At the session of the Legislature in Jaiiuarv, 1869, the subjeel of ratifying the fifteenth amendment to the Federal Constitution, allowing negro sutirage, came up with such persistency that neither party dared to undertake any other business lest it be checkmated in some way, and being at a dead lock on this matter, they adjourn- ed in March without having done much important business. The Democrats, as well as a portion of the conservative Republicans, opposed its consideration strongly on the ground that it would be unfair to vote on the question until the people of the State liad had an opportunity of expressing their views at the polls; but most of the liepublicans resolved to push the measure through, while the Democrats resolved to resign in a body and leave the Legislatuin; without a quorum. Accordingly, on March 4, 17 Senators and 3(j Representatives resigned, leaving both houses without a quorum. As the early adjournment of the Legislature left the benevolent institutions of the State unprovided for, the Governor convened that body in extra session as soon as possible, and after the neces- sary appropriations were made, on the 19th of May the fifteenth amendment came up; but in anticipation of this the Democratic members had all resigned and claimed that there was no quorum present. There was a quorum, however, of Senators in office, though some of them refused to vote, declaring that they were no longer Senators; but the president of that body decided that as he had not been informed of their resignation by the Governor, they were still members. A vote was taken and the ratifying resolution was adopted. When the resolution came up in the House, the chair decided that, although the Democratic members had resigned there was a quorum of the de facto members present, and the House proceeded to pass the resolution. This decision of the chair was afterward sustained by the Supreme Court. At the next regular session of the Legislature, in 1871, the Democrats undertook to repeal the ratification, and the Republican members resigned to prevent it. The Democrats, as the Republi- cans did on the previous occasion, proceeded to pass their resolu- tion of repeal; but while the process was under way, before the House CoMimittee had time to report on the matter, 34 Republicau members resigned, thereby preventing its passage and putting.? stop to further legislation. INDIANA IN THE WAR. The events of the earlier years of this State have been reviewed down to that period in the nation's history when the Republic de- manded a first sacrifice from the newly erected States: to the time when the very safety of the glorious heritage, bequeathed by the fathers as a rich legacy, was threatened with a fate worse than death — a life under laws that harbored the slave — a civil defiance of the first principles of the Constitution. Indiana was among the first to respond to the summons of patri- otism, and register itself on the national roll of honor, even as she was among tlie first to join in that song of joy which greeted a Re- public made doubly glorious within a century by the dual victory which won liberty for itself, and next bestowed the precious boon upon the colored slave. The fall of Fort Sumter was a signal for the uprising of the State. The news of the calamity was flashed to Indianapolis on the 14tliof April, 1861, and early the next morning the electric wire brought the welcome message to Washington: — Executive Department of Indiana, ) Indianapolis, April 15, 1861. ( To Abraham Lincoln, President of the United Slates: — On behalf of the State of Indiana, 1 tender to you for the defense of the Xation, and to uphold the au- thority of the Government, ten thousand men. OLIVER P. MORTON, Governor of Indiana. This may be considered the first official act of Governor Morton, who had just entered on the duties of his exalted position. The State was in an almost helpless condition, and yet the faith of the " War Governor " was prophetic, when, after a short consultation with the members of the Executive Council, he relied on the fidelity of ten thousand men and promised their services to the Protectorate at Washington. This will be more ap])areut when the military condition of the State at the beginning of 1S61 is considered. At that time the armories contained less than five hundred stand of serviceable small arms, eight pieces of cannon which might be use- ful in a museum of antiquities, with sundry weapons which would miTcly do credit to the aborigines of one hundred years ago. The financial condition of the State was even worse than the military. (14.<) HISTORY OF INDIANA. '^^ The sum of $10,368.58 in trust funds was the amount of ca^^h in the lianils of the Treasurer, and tiiis was, to all intents and ]>iirposes unavailable to meet the emergency, since it could not be devoted to the military requirements of the day. This state of affairs was dispiriting in the extreme, and would doubtless have militated against the ultimate success of any other man than Morton; yet he overleaped every difficulty, nor did the fearful realization of Floyd's treason, discovered during his visit to Washington, damp Ins indomitable courage and energy, but with rare persistence he urged the claims of his State, and for his exertions was requited with an order for five thousand muskets. The order was not exe- cuted until hostilities were actually entered upon, and consequently for some days succeeding the publication of tlie President's procla- mation the people labored under a feeling of terrible anxiety min- gled with uncertainty, amid the confusion which followed the crim- inal negligence that permitted the disbandment of the magnificent corps cT armee (51,000 men) of 1832 two years later in 1834. Great numbers of the people maintained their equanamity with the result of beholding within a brief space of time every square mile of their State represented by soldiers prepared to fight to the bitter end ia defense of cherished institutions, and for the extension of the prin- ciple of human liberty to all States and classes within the limits of the threatened Union. This, tlieirzeal, was not animated by hos- tility to the slave holders of the Southern States, but rather by ai fraternal spirit, akin to that which urges the eldest brother to cor- rect the persistent follies of his juniors, and thus lead them front crime to the maintenance of family honor; in this correction, tO' draw them away from all that was cruel, diabolical and inhuman in the Republic, to all that is gentle, holy and sublime therein. Many of the raw troops were not only unimated by a patriotic feeling, but also by that beautiful idealization of the poet, who in his un- conscious Republicanism, said: " I would not have a slave to till my ground, To carry me, to fan me while I sleep, And tremble when I wake, for all the wealth That sinews boui^ht and sold have ever earned No: dear as freedom is — and, in my heart's Just estimatiiin, prized above all price — I h.ad much rather be myself the slave, And wear the bonds, than fasten them on him." Thus animated, it is not a matter for surprise to find the first call to arms issued by the President, and calling for 75,000 mcn» 150 IIISTCJET OF INDIANA. answered nobly by the people of Indiana. The quota of troops to be furnished by the State on the first call was 4,6S3 men for three years' service from April 15, 1860. On the 16th of April, Gov- ernor Morton issued his proclamation calling on all citizens of the State, who had the welfare of the Republic at heart, to organize themselves into six regiments in defense of their rights, and in apposition to the varied acts of rebellion, charged by him against Blie Southern Confederates. To this end, the Hon. Lewis Wallace, a soldier of the Mexican campaign was appointed Adjutant-General, Col. Thomas A. Morris of the United States Military Academy, Quartermaster-General, and Isaiah Mansur, a merchant of Indian- apolis, Commissary-General. These general officers converted the grounds and buildings of the State Board of Agriculture into a military headquarters, and designated the position Camp Morton, as the beginning of the many honors which were to follow the pop- nlar Governor throughout his future career. Now the people, im- bued with confidence in their Government and leaders, rose to the grandeur of American freemen, and with an enthusiasm never equaled hitherto, flocked to the standard of the nation ; so that within a few days (19th April) 2,400 men were ranked beneath tteir regimental banners, until as the official report testifies, the anxious question, passing from mouth to mouth, was, " Which of Hs will be allowed to go? " It seemed as if Indiana was about to monopolize the honors of the period, and place the 75.000 men demanded of the Union by the President, at his disposition. Even now under the genial sway of guaranteed peace, the features of Indiana's veterans flush with righteous pride when these days — re- membrances of heroic sacrifice — are named, and freemen, still un- born, will read their history only to be blessed and glorified in the possession of such truly, noble progenitors. Nor were the ladies of the State unmindful of their duties. Everywhere they partook of the general enthusiasm, and made it practical so far as in their power, by embroidering and presenting standards and regimental colors, organizing aid and relief societies, and by man}^ other acts of patriotism and humanity inherent in the high nature of woman. During the days set apart by the military authorities for the or- ganization of the regiments, the financiers of the State were en- gaged in the reception of munificent grants of money from pri- vate citizens, while the money merchants within and without the State oflered large loans to the recognized Legislature without even imposing a condition of payment. This most practical generosity HISTORY OF INDIANA. 151 strengthened the hands of the Executive, and within a very few days Indiana had passed the crucial test, recovered some of her military prestige lost in 1834, and so was prepared to vie with the other and wealthier States in making sacrifices for the public welfare. On the 20th of April, Messrs, I. S. Dobbs and Alvis D. Gall re- ceived their appointments as Medical Inspectors of the Division, while Major T. J. Wood arrived at headquarters from Washington to receive the newly organized regiments into the service of the Union. At the moment this formal proceeding took place, Morton, unable to restrain the patriotic ardor ot the people, telegraphed to the capitol that he could place six regiments of infantry at the dis- posal of the General Government within six days, if such a pro- ceeding were acceptable; but in consequence of the wires being cut between the State and Federal capitols, no answer came. Taking advantage of the little doubt whicli may have had existence in re- gard to future action in the matter and in the absence of general orders, he gave expression to an intention of placing the volunteers in camp, and in his message to the Legislature, who assembled three days later, he clearly laid down the principle of immediate action and strong measures, recommending a note of $1,000,000 for there- organization of the volunteers, for the purchase of arms and supplies, and for the punishment of treason. The message was received most enthusiastically. The assembly recognized the great points made by the Governor, and not only yielded to them in toto, but also made the following grand appropriations: General military purposes $1,000,000 Purchase of arras 500,000 Continsicnt military expenses 100,000 Organization and support of militia for two years 140,000 These appropriations, together with the laws enacted during the session of the Assembly, speak for the men of Indiana. The celerity with which these laws were put in force, the diligince and economy exercised by the officers, entrusted with their administration, and that systematic genius, under which all the machinery of Govern- ment seemed to work in harmony, — all, all, tended to make for the State a spring-time of noble deeds, when seeds might be cast along her fertile fields and in the streets of her villages of industry to grow up at once and blossom in the ray of fame, and after to bloom throughout the ages. Within three daj's after the opening of the extra session of the Legislature (27th April) six new regiments were organized, and commissioned for three months' service. These reg- 152 HISTORY UK INDIANA. •' u Ebenezer Dumont a i( W P. Beuton. a (( R. H. Milroy. Hines, Aid-de-camp; and J. A. Stein, Assistant Adjutant General. To follow the fortunes of these volunteers through all the vicissi- tudes of war would prove a special work; yet their valor and endur- ance during their first term of service deserved a notice of even more value than that of the historian, since a commander's opinioa has to be taken as the basis upon which the chronicler may expatiate. Therefore the following dispatch, dated from the headquarters of the Army of Occupation, Beverly Camp, W. Virginia, July 21, 1S61, must be taken as one of the first evidences of their utility and valor: — "Governor O. P. Morton, Indtanapolit, Indiana Governor : — I have directed the three months' regiments from Indiana to move to Indianapolis, there to be mustered out and reorganized for three years' service. I cannot permit them to return to you without again expressing my high appreciation of the distinguished valor and endurance of the Indiana troops, and my hope that but a short time will elapse before I have the pleasure of knowing that they are again ready for the field. ******* I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, George B. McCleixax, iliijor-Oerural, U. S- A. On the return of the troops to Indianapolis, July 29, Brigadier Morris issued a lengthy, logical and well-deserved congratulatory address, from which one paragraph may be extracted to characterize HISTORY OF INDIANA. 153 the whole. After passing a glowing eulogium on their military qualities and on that unexcelled gallantry displayed at Laurel Hill, Phillipi and Carrick's Ford, he says: — " Soldiers! You have now returned to the friends whose prayers went with you to the field of strife. They welcome you witli pride and exultation. Your State and country acknowledge the value of your labors. May your future career be as your past has been, — honorable to yourselves and serviceable to your country." The six regiments forming Morris' brigade, together with one composed of the surplus volunteers, for whom there was no regi- ment in April, now formed a division of seven regiment?, all reor- ganized for three years' service, between the 20th August and 20th September, with the exception of the new or 12th, which was ac- cepted for one year's service from May 11th, under command of Colonel John M. Wallace, and reorganized May 17, 1862, for three years' service under Col. W. H. Link, who, with 172 officers and men, received their mortal wounds during the Richmond (Ken- tucky) engagement, three months after its reorganization. The 13th Regiment, under Col. Jeremiah Sullivan, was mus- tered into the United States in 1861 and joined Gen. McClellan's command at Rich Mountain on the 10th July. The day following it was present under Gen. Rosencrans and lost eight men killed; three successive days it was engaged under Gen. L I. Re^'nolds, and won its laurels at Cheat Mountain summit, where it participated in the decisive victory over Gen. Lee. The Hth Regiment, organized in 1861 for one year's service, and reorganized on the 7th of June at Terre Haute for three years' ser. vice. Commanded by Col. Kimball and siiowing a muster roll of 1,134 men, it was one of the finest, as it was the first, three years' regiment organized in the State, with varying fortunes attached to its never ending round of duty from Cheat Mountain, September, 1861, to Morton's Ford in 1864, and during the movement South in May of that year to the last of its labors, the battle of Cold Har- bor. The loTH Regiment, reorganized at La Fayette 14th June, 1861, under Col. G. D. Wagner, moved on Rich Mountain on the 11th of July in time to participate in the complete rout of the enemy. On the promotion of Col. Wagner, Lieutenant-Col. G. A. Wood became Colonel of the regiment, November, 1^62, and during the first days of January, 1863, took a distinguished part in the severe action of Stone River. From this period down to the battle of Mis- sion Ridge it was in a series of destructive engagements, and was, 15-t HISTORY OK INDIANA. after enduring terrible liardsliips, ordered to Chattanooga, and thence to Indianapolis, where it was mustered out the 18th June, 186-1, — four days after the expiration of its term of service. The 16th Regiment, organized under Col. P. A. Hackleman at Richmond for one year's service, after participating in many minor military events, was mustered out at Washington, D.C., on the 14th of May, 1862. Col. Hackleman was killed at the battle of luka, and Lieutenant-Col. Thomas I. Lucas succeeded to the command. It was reorganized at Indianapolis for three years' service, May 27, 1862, and took a conspicuous part inall the brilliant engagements of the war down to June, 18G5, when it was mustered out at New Orleans. The survivors, numbering 365 rank and file, returned to Indianapolis the 10th of July amid the rejoicing of the populace. The 17th Regiment was mustered into service at Indianapolis the 12tli of June, 1861, for three years, under Col. Hascall, who on being promoted Brigadier General in March, 1862, left the Colonelcy to devolve on Lieutenant Colonel John T. Wilder. This regiment participated in the many exploits of Gen. Reynold's army from Green Brier in 1862, to Macon in 1865, under Gen. Wilson. Returning to Indianapolis the 16th of August, in possession of a brilliant record, the regiment was disbanded. The 18th Regiment, under Colonel Thomas Pattison, was organ- ized at Indianapolis, and mustered into service on the 16th of August, 1861. Under Gen. Pope it gained some distinction at Blackwater, and succeeded in retaining a reputation made there, by its gallantry at Pea Ridge, February, 1862, down to the moment when it planted the regimental flag on the arsenal of Augusta, Georgia, where it was disbanded August 28, 1865. The 19th Regiment, mustered into three years' service at the State capital July 29, 1861, was ordered to join the army of the Potomac, and reported its arrival at Washington, August 9. Two days later it took part in the battle of Lewinsville, under Colonel Solomon Meredith. Occupying Falls Church in September, 1861, it continued to maintain a most enviable place of honor on the military roll until its consolidation with the 20th Regiment, October, 1864, under Colonel William Orr, formerly its Lieutenant Colonel. The 20th Regiment of La Fayette was organized in July. 1861, mustered into three years' service at Indianapolis on the 22d of the eame month, and reached the front at Cockeysville, Maryland, twelve daj's later. Throughout aW its iirilliant actions from Hat- teras Bank, on the 4th of October, to Clover Hill, 9th of April, 1865, HISTORY OF INDIANA. 155 iticludiiig tlie saving of the United States ship ^oMjr/vs.v', at New- ]iort News, it added daily some new name to its escutcheon. This rejjiment was mustered out at Louisville in July, 1865, and return- iwijr to Indianapolis was welcomed by the great war Governor of their State. The 2l8T -Regiment was mustered into service under Colonel I. W. McMillan, July 24, IStU, and re])orted at tlie front the third day of August. It was the first regiment to enter New Orleans. The fortunes of this regiment were as varied as its services, so that its name and fame, grown from the blood shed by its members, are destined to live and flourish. In December, 1863, the regiment was reorganized, and on the 19th February, 1864, many of its veterans returned to their State, where Morton received them with that spirit of proud gratitude which he was capable of showing to those who deserve honor for honors won. Tlie 22d Regiment, under Colonel Jeff. C. Davis, left Indian- apolis the 15th of August, and was attached to Fremont's Corps at St. Louis on the 17th. From the day it moved to the support of Colonel Mulligan at Lexington, to the last victory, won under General Sherman at Bentonville, on the 19th of March, 1865, it gained a high military reputation. After the fall of Johnston's southern army, this regiment was mustered out, and arrived at Indianapolis on the 16tli June. The 23d Battalion, commanded by Colonel W. L. Sanderson, "was mustered in at New Albany, the 29th July, 1861, and moved to the front early in August. From its unfortunate marine ex- periences before Fort Henry to Bentonville it won unusual honors, and after its disbandment at Louisville, returned to Indianapolis July 24, 1S65, wiiere Governor Morton and General Sherman reviewed and complimented the gallant survivors. The 24th Battalion, under Colonel Alvin P. Hovey, was mustered at Vincennes the 31st of July, 1861. Proceeding imme- diately to the front it joined Fremont's command, and participated under many Generals in important affairs during the war. Three hundred and ten men and otficers returned to their State in August, 1865, and were received with marked honors by the people and E.xecutive. The 25th Regiment, of Evansville mustered into service there for three years under Col. J. C. Veatch, arrived at St. Louis on the 26tli of August, 1861. During the war this regiment was present at 18 battles and skirmishes, sustaining therein a loss of 352 men 156 HISTOKV OF INDIANA. and officers. Mustered out at Louisville, July 17, 1S6.5, it returned to Indianapolis on tJie 21st amid universal rejoicing. The 26th Battalion, under W. M. Wheatley, left Indianapolis for the front the 7th of September, 1S61, and after a brilliant cam- paign under Fremont, Grant, Heron and Smith, may be said to disband the ISth of September, 1S65, when the non-veterans and recruits were reviewed by Morton at the State capital. The 27th Regiment, uuder Col. Silas Colgrove, moved from Indianapolis to Washington City, September 15tli, 1861, and in October was allied to Gen. Banks' army. From Winchester Heights, the 9th of March 1862, through all the afl'airs of General Sherman's campaign, it acted a gallant and faithful part, and was disbanded immediately after returning to their State. The 28th or 1st Cavalry was mustered into service at Evans- ville on the 20th of August, 1861, under Col. Conrad Baker. From the skirmish at Ironton, on the 12th of September, wherein three companies under Col. Gavin captured a position held by a tew rebels, to the battle of the Wilderness, the First Cavalry per- formed prodigies of valor. In June and July, 1865, the troops were mustered out at Indianapolis. The 29th Battalion of La Porte, under Col. J. F. Miller, left on the 5th of October, 1861, and reaching Camp Nevin, Kentucky, on the 9th, was allied to Rosseau's Brigade, serving with McCook's division at Shiloh, with Buell's army in Alabama, Tennessee and Kentucky, with liosencrans at Murfreesboro, at Decatur, Alabama, and at Dalton, Georgia. The Twenty-ninth won many laurels, and had its Colonel promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. This officer was succeeded in the command by Lieutenant-Col. D.M.Dunn. The 30th Regiment of Fort Wayne, under Col. Sion S. Bass, proceeded to the front via Indianapolis, and joined General Rosseau at Camp Nevin on the 9th of October, 1801. At Shiloh, Col. Bass received a mortal wound, and died a few days later at Paducah, leaving the Colonelcy to devolve upon Lieutenant-Col. J. B. Dodge. In October 1865, it formed a battalion of General Sheri- dan's army of observation in Texas. The 3l8t Regiment, organized at Terre Haute, under Col. Charles Cruft, in September 1861, was mustered in, and left in a few days for Kentucky, Present at the reduction of Fort Donolson on the 13th, l-ith, and loth of February, 1862, its list of killed and wounded proves its desperate fighting qualities. The organization mSTOKV OF INDIANA. 157 was subjected to many changes, but in all its phases maintained a fair tame won on many battle fields. Like the former regiment, it passed into Gen. Sheridan's Army of Observation, and held the district of Green Lake, Texas. The 32d Regimen't of German Infantry, under Col. Augnst Willich, organized at Lidianapolis, mustered on the 24:th of August, isfil, served with distinction throughout the campaign Col. Willich was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General, andLieut.- Col. Henry Von Trebra commissioned to act, under whose com- mand the regiment passed into General Sheridan's Army, hold- ing the post of Salado Creek, until the withdrawal of the corps of observation in Texas. The 33d Regiment of Indianapolis possesses a military history of no small proportions. The more facts that it was mustered in under Col. John Coburn, the 16th of September, won a series of distinctions throughout the war district and was mustered out at Louisville, July 21, 1S65, taken with its name as one of the most powerful regiments engaged in the war, are sufficient here. The 34th Battalion, organized at Anderson on the 16th Sep- tember, 1S61, under Col. Ashbury Steele, appeared among the in- vesting battalions before New Madrid on the 30th of March, 1862. From the distinguished part it took in that siege, down to the 13th of May, 1865, when at Palmetto Ranche, near Palo Alto, it fought for hours against fearful odds the last battle of the war for the Union. Afterwards it marched 250 miles up the Rio Grande, and was the first regiment to reoccupy the position, so 1 mg in Southern hands, of Riiigold barracks. In 186.5 it garrisoned Bea- consville as part of the Army of Observation. The 35th ok First Irish Regiment, was organized at Indian- apolis, and mustered into service on the 11th of December, 1861, under Col. John C. "Walker. At Nashville, on the 22d of May, 1862, it was joined by the organized portion of the Sixty-lirst or Second Irish Regiment, and unassigned recruits. Col. Mullen now became Lieut.-Colonel of the 35th, and shortly after, its Colonel. From the ]'.ursuit of Gen. Bragg through Kentucky and the affair at Perryville on the 8th of October, 1862, to the terrible hand to hand combat at Kenesaw mountain, on the night of the 20th of June, 1864, and again from the conclusion of the Atlanta campaign to September, 1865, with Gen. Sheridan's army, when it was mus- tered out, it won for itself a name of reckless daring and unsur- passed gallantry. 158 IIISTOKY OF INDIANA. The 36th Regiment, of Richiiiond, Ind., under Col. William Grose, mustered into service tor three years on the 16th of Sep- tember, 1861, went immediately to the front, and shared the for- tunes of the Army of the Ohio until the 27th of February, 1862, when a forward movement led to its presence on the battle-field of Shiloh. Following up the honors won at Shiloh, it participated in some of the most important actions of the war, and was, in October, 1865, transferred to Gen. Sheridan's army. Col. Grose was pro- moted in 1864 to the position of Brigadier-General, and the Colonelcy devolved on Oliver H. P. Carey, formerly Lieut.-Colonel of the regiment. The 37th Battalion, of Lawrenceburg, commanded by Col. Geo. W. llazzard, organized the ISth of September, 1861, left for the seat of war early in October. From the eventful battle of Stone river, in December, 1862, to its participation in Sherman's, march through Georgia, it gained for itself a splendid I'eputation. This regiment returned to, and was present at, Indianapolis, on the 30th of July, 1865, where a public reception was tendered to meu and officers on the grounds of the Capitol. The 38th Regiment, under Col. Benjamin F. Scribner, was mus- tered in at New Albany, on the 18th of September, 1861, and in a few days were en rovie for the front. To follow its continual round of duty, is without the limits of this sketch; therefore, it will suffice to say, that on every well-fought field, at least from February, 1S62, until its dissolution, on the 15th of July, 1865, it earned an enviable renown, and drew from Gov. Morton, on return- ing to Indianapolis the 18th of the same mouth, a congratulatory address couched in the highest terms of praise. The 39th Regiment, or Eighth Cwalrt, was mustered in as an infantry regiment, under Col. T. J. Harrison, on the 28th of August, 1861, at the State capital. Leaving immediately for the front it took a conspicuous part in all the engagements up to April, 1863, when it was reorganized as a cavalry regiment. The record of this organization sparkles with great deeds which men will extol while language lives; its services to the LTnioti cannot be over esti- mated, or the memory of its daring deeds be forgotten by the un- happy people who raised the tumult, which culminated in their second shame. The 40tu Regiment, of Lafayette, under Col. W. C. Wilson, subsequently commanded by Col. J. W. Blake, and again by Col. Henry Learning, was organized on the 30th of December, 1861, and HISTORY OF INDIANA. 15;» at once proceeded to the front, where some time was necessarily spent in the Camp of Instruction at Bardstowu, Kentucky. In February, 1862, it joined in Buell's forward movement. During the war the regiment shared in all its hardships, participated in all its honors, and like many other brave commands took service under Gen. Sheridan in his Army of Occupation, holding the post of Port Lavaca, Texas, until peace brooded over the land. The 41st Regiment ob Second Cavalry, the first complete regi- ment of horse ever raised in the State, was organized on the 3d of September, 1861, at Indianapolis, under Col. John A. Bridgland, and December 16 moved to the front. Its first war experience was gained e)h route to Corinth on the 9th of April, 1862, and at Pea Ridge on the 15th. Gallatin, Vinegar Hill, and Perryville, and Talbot Station followed in succession, each battle bringing to the cavalry untold honors. In May, 1864, it entered upon a glorious career under Gen. Sherman in his Atlanta campaign, and again under Gen. Wilson in the raid through Alabama during April, 1865. On tiie 22d of July, after a brilliant career, the regiment was mustered out at Nashville, and returned at once to Indianapolis for discharge. The 42d, under Col J. G. Jones, mustered into service at Evans- ville, October 9, 1861, and having participated in the principal military affairs of the period, Wartrace. Mission Ridge, Altoona, Kenesaw, Savannah, Charlestown and Bentonville, was discharged at Indianapolis on the 25th of July, 1865. The 43d Battalion was mustered in on the 27th of September, 1861, under Col. George K. Steele, and left Terre Haute enroute to the front within a few days. Later it was aPied. to Gen. Pope's corps, and afterwards served with Commodore Foote's marines in the reduction of Fort Pillow. It was the first Union regiment to enter Memj)his. From that period until the close of the war it was distinguished for its unexcelled qualifications as a military body, and fully deserved the encomiums passed upon it on its return to Indiana])olis in March, 1865. The 44th or the Regiment of the 10th Congressional District was organized at Fort Wayne on the 24th of October, 1861, under Col. Hugh B. Reed. Two months later it was ordered to the front, and arriving in Kentucky, was attached to Gen. Cruft's Brigade, then quartered at Calhoun. After years of faithful service it was mustered out at Chattanooga, the 14th of September, 1865. The 45Tn, or Third Cavalry, comprised ten companies 160 HISTOKV OF. IXL.IANA. organized at different periods and for varied services in 1861- '62, under Colonel Scott Carter and George H. Chapman. The distinguished name won by the Third Cavalry is established in every village within the State. Let it suffice to add that after its brilliant participation in Gen. Sheridan's raid down the James' river canal, it was mustered out at Indianapolis on the 7th of Au- gust, 1865. The 4:6th Regiment, organized at Logansport under Colonel Graham N. Fitch, arrived in Kentucky the 16th of February, 1862, and a little later became attached to Gen. Pope's army, then quar- tered at Commerce. The capture of Fort Pillow, and its career under Generals Curtis, Palmer, Hovey, Gorman, Grant, Sherman, Banks and Burbridge are as truly worthy of applause as ever iell to the lot of a regiment. The command was mustered out at Louis- ville on the 4th of September, 1865. The 47th was organized at Anderson, under Col. I. P. Slack, early in October, 1862. Arriving at Bardstown, Kentuckj-, on the 21st of December, it was attached to Gen. Buell's army; but within two months was assigned to Gen. Pope, under whom it proved the first regiment to enter Fort Thompson near New Madrid. In 1864 the command visited Indianapolis on veteran furlough and was enthu- siastically received by Governor Morton and the people. Return- ing to the trout it engaged heartily in Gen. Banks' company. In December, Col. Slack received his commission as Brigadier-General, and was succeeded on the regimental command by Col. J. A. Mc- Laughton ; at Shreveport under General Heron it received the sub- mission of General Price and his army, and there also was it mus- tered out of service on the 23d of October, 1865. The 48th Regiment, organized at Goshen tlie 6th of December, 1861, under Col. Norman Eddy, entered on its duties during the siege of Corinth in May, and again in October, 1862. The record of this battalion may be said to be unsurpassed in its every feature, so that the grand ovation extended to the returned soldiers in 1865 at Indianapolis, is not a matter for surprise. The 49th Regiment, organized at Jeffersonville, under Col. J. "W Ray, and mustered in on the 21st of November, 1861, for service, left en route for the camp at Bardstown. A month later it arrived at the unfortunate camp-ground of Cumberland Ford, where dis- ease carried off a number of gallant soldiers. The regiment, how- ever, survived the dreadful scourge and won its laurels on manj HISTORY OF INDIANA. 1*31 a well-foiiglit field until September, 1865, when it was mustered out at Louisville. The 50rH Regiment, under Col. Cyrus L. Dunham, organized during the month of September, 1S61, at Seymour, left en route to ' Bardstown for a course of military instruction. On the 20th of August, 1862, a detachment of the 50th, under Capt. Atkinson, was attacked by Morgan's Cavalry near Edgefield Junction; but the gallant few repulsed their oft-repeated onsets and finally drove them from the field. Tlie regiment underwent many changes in organization, and may be said to muster out on the 10th of Septem- ber, 1865. TheSlsT Regiment, under Col. Abel. D. Streight, left Indianap- olis on the 14th of December, 1861, for the South. After a short course of instruction at Bardstown, the regiment joined General Buell's and acted with great eflTect during the campaign in Ken- tucky and Tennessee. Ultimately it became a participator in the work of the Fourth Corps, or Army of Occupation, and held the post of San Antonio until peace was doubly assured. The 5"2d Regiment was partially raised at Rushville, and the organization completed at Indianapolis, where it was consolidated with the Railway Brigade, or 56th Regiment, on the 2d of Feb- ruary, 1862. Going to the front immediately after, it served with marked distinction throughoiit the war, and was mustered out at Montgomery on the 10th of September, 1865. Returning to Indian- apolis six days later, it was welcomed by Gov. Morton and a most enthusiastic reception accorded to it. The 53kd Battalion was raised at New Albany, and with the addition of recruits raised at Rockport formed a standard regi- ment, under command of Col. W. Q. Gresham. Its first duty was that of guarding the rebels confined on Camp Morton, but on going to the front it made for itself an endurable name. It was nnis- tered out in July, 1865, and returned to Indiananoplis on the 25tli of the same month. The 51:TH Regiment was raised at Indianapolis on the 10th of June, 1862, for three months' service under Col. D.G.Rose. The succeeding two months saw it in charge of the prisoners at Camp Morton, and in August it was pushed forward to aid in the defense of Kentucky against the Confederate General, Kirby Smith. The remainder of its short term of service was given to the cause. On the muster out of the three months' service regiment it was reorgan- 162 HISTORY OF INDIANA. ized for one year's service and gained some distinction, after which it was mustered out in 1863 at New Orleans. The 55th Regiment, organized for three months' service, retains the brief history applicable to the first organization of the 5-tth. It was mustered in on the 16th of June, 1862, under Col. J. R. Mahon, disbanded on the expiration of its term and was not reor- ganized. The 56th Regiment, referred to in the sketch of the 5'2nd. was designed to be composed of railroad men, marshalled under J M. Smith as Colonel, but owing to the fact that many railroaders had already volunteered into other regiments, Col. Smith's volunteers were incorporated with the 52nd, and this number left blank in the army list. The 57th Battalion, actually organized by two ministers of the gospel, — the Rev. I. W. T. McMuUen and Rev. F. A. Ilardin, of Richmond, Ind., mustered into service on the IStli of Novem- ber, 1861, under the former named reverend gentleman as Colonel» who was, however, succeeded by Col. Cyrus C. Haynes, and he in turn by G. W. Leonard, Willis Blanch and John S. McGrath, the latter holding command until the conclusion of the war. The history of this battalion is extensive, and if participation in a num- ber of battles with the display of rare gallantry wins fame, the 57th may rest assured of its possession of this fragile yet coveted prize. Like many other regiments it concluded its military labors in the service of General Sheridan, and held the post of Port Lavaca in conjunction with another regiment until peace dwelt in the land. The 58th Regiment, of Princeton, was organized there early in October, 1861, and was mustered into service under the Colonelcy of Henry M. Carr. In December it was ordered to join Gen- eral Buell's army, after which it took a share in the various actions of the war, and was mustered out on the 25th of July, 1865, at Louisville, having gained a place on the roll of honor. The 59th Battalion was raised under a commission issued by Gov. Morton to Jesse I. Alexander, creating him Colonel. Owing to the peculiarities hampering its organization, Col. Alexander could not succeed in having his regiment prepared to muster in before the 17th of February, 18G2. However, on that day the equipment was complete, and on the 18th it left en route to Commerce, where on its arrival, it was incorporated under General Pope's command. The list of its casualties speaks a history, — no less than 793 men were lost during the campaign. The regiment, after a term char- HISTORY OB' INDIANA. 163 acterized hy distinguislied service, was mustered out at Louisvillo on tlie 17th of July, 1S65. The 60th Regiment was partially organized under Lieut.-Col. Kicliard Owen at Evansville during November 1861, and perfected at Camp Morton during March, 1862. Its first experience was its gallant resistance to Bragg's army investing Munfordsville, which culminated in the unconditional surrender of its first seven com- panies on the 14fh of September. An exchange of prisoners took place in November, which enabled it to joine the remaining com- panies in the field. The subsequent record is excellent, and forms, as it were, a monument to their fidelity and heroism. The main portion of this battalion was mustered out at Indianapolis, on the 21st of March, 1S65. The 61sT was partially organized in December, 1861, under Col. B. F. Mullen. The failure of thorough organization on the 22d of May, 1862, led the men and ofticers to agree to incorporation with the 35th Regiment of Volunteers. The 62d Battalion, raised under a commission issued to Wil- liam Jones, of Rockport, authorizing him to organize this regiment in the First Congressional District was so unsuccessful that consoli- dation with the 53d Regiment was resolved upon. The 63d Regiment, of Covington, under James McMauomy, Commandant ot Camp, and J. S. Williams, Adjutant, was partially organized on the 31st of December, 1861, and may be considered on duty from its very formation. After guarding prisoners at Camp Morton and Lafayette, and engaging in battle on Manassas Plains on the 30th of August following, the few companies sent out in February, 1862, returned to Indianapolis- to find six new companies raised under the call of July, 18G2, ready to embrace the fortunes of the 63d. So strengthened, the regiment went forth to battle, and continued to lead in the paths of honor and fidelity until mustered out in May and June, 1865. The 64th Regiment failed in organization as an artillery corps; but orders received from the War Department prohibiting the con- solidation of independent batteries, put a stop to any further move in the matter. However, an infantry regiment bearing the same number was afterward organized. The 65th was mustered in at Princeton and Evansville, in July and August, 1862, under Col. J. W. Foster, and left at once e/b route for the front. The record of this battalion is creditable, not onlv to its members, but also to the State which claimed it. Its If!4 HISTORY OF INDIANA. last action daring the war was on the ISth and 20th of February, 1865, at Fort Anderson and Town creek, after whicli, on the 22d June, it was disbanded at Greensboro. The 66th Regimext partially organized at New Albany, under Commandant Roger Martin, was ordered to leave for Kentucky on the 19th of August, 1^62, for the defense of that State against the incursions of Kirby Smith. After a brilliant career it was mus- tered out at Washington on the 3d of June, 1865, after which it returned to Indianapolis to receive the thanks of a grateful people. The 67th Regiment was organized within the Third Congressional District under Col. Frank Emerson, and was ordered to Louisville on the 20th of August, 1S62, whence it marched to Munfordville, only to share the same fate with the other gallant regiments en- gaged against Gen. Bragg's advance. Its roll of honor extends down the years of civil disturbance, — always adding garlands, un- til Peace called a truce in the fascinating race after fame, and insured a term of rest, wherein its members could think on comrades forever vanished, and temper the sad thought with the sublime mem- ories born of that chivalrous fight for the maintenance and integri- ty of a great Republic. At Galveston on the 19tli of July, 1S65. the gallant 67th Regiment was mustered out, and returning within a iew days to its State received the enthusiastic ovations of lier citi- zens. The 68th Regiment, organized at Greensburg under Major Ben- jamin C. Shaw, was accepted for general service the 19th of August, 1862, under Col. Edward A. King, with Major Shaw as Lieutenant Colonel; on the 25th its arrival at Lebanon was reported and with- in a few days it appeared at the defense of Munfordville; Imt shar- ing in the fate of all the defenders, it surrendered uuconditionallv to Gen. Bragg and did not participate further in the actions of that jear, nor until after the exchange of prisoners in 1S63. From this period it may lay claim to an enviable history extending to the end of the war, when it was disembodied. The 69th Regiment, of Richmond, Ind., under Col. A. Bickle, left for the front on the 20th ot August, 1S62. and ten days later made a very brilliant stand at Richmond, Kentucky, against the advance of Gen. Kirby Smith, losing in the engagement two hundred and eighteer; men and officers together with, its liberty. After an exchange of prisoners the regiment was reorganized under Col. T. "W. Bennett and took the field in December, 1862, under UISTDRY OF INDIANA. 165 Generals Sheldon, Morgan and Sherman of Grant's army. Chick- asaw, Vicksburg, Blakely and many other names testify to the valor of the 69th. The remnant of the regiment was in January, 1865, formed into a battalion under Oran Perry, and was mustered out in July following. The 70th Regiment was organized at Indianapolis on the 12th of August, 1862, under Col. B. Harrison, and leaving for Louisville on the 13th, shared in the honors cf Brace's division at Franklin and Russellville. The record of the regiment is brimful of honor. It was mustered out at Washington, June 8, 1865, and received at Indianapolis with public honors. The 71sT OR Sixth Cavalry was organized as an infantry regi- ment, at Terre Haute, and mustered into general service at Indian- apolis on the 18th of August, 1862, under Lieut. -Col. Melville D. Topping. Twelve days later it was engaged outside Richmond, Kentucky, losing two hundred and fifteen otScers and men, includ- ing Col. Topping and Major Conklin, together with three hundred and forty-seven prisoners, only 225 escaping death and capture. After an exchange of prisoners the regiment was re-formed under Col. I. Bittle, but on the 28th of December it surrendered to Gen, J. H. Morgan, who attacked its position at Muldraugh's Hill with a force of 1,000 Confederates. During September and October, 1863, it was organized as a cavalry regiment, won distinction throughout its career, and was mustered out the loth of September, 1865, at Murfreesboro. The 77th Regiment was organized at Lafayette, &nd left en route to Lebanon, Kentucky, on the 17th of August, 1862. Under Col. Miller it won a series of honors, and mustered out at Nashville on the 26th of June, 1865. The 73kd Regiment, under Col. Gilbert Hathaway, was mustered in at South Bend on the 16th of August, 1862, and proceeded im- mediately to the front. Day's Gap, Crooked Creek, and the high eulogies of Generals Rosencrans and Granger speak its long and brilliant history, nor were the welcoming shouts of a great people and the congratulations of Gov. Morton, tendered to the regiment on its return home, in July, 1865, necessary to sustain its well won reputation. The 74th Regiment, partially organized at Fort Wayne and made almost complete at Indianapolis, left for the seat of war on the 22d of August, 1S62, under Col. Charles W. Chapman. The desperate opposition to Gen. Bragg, and the magnificent defeat of Morgan, 166 HISTORY OF INDIANA. together with the battles of Dallas, Cliattahoochie river, Kenesaw and Atlanta, where Lieut. Col. Myron Baker was killed, all bear evi- dence of its never surpassed gallantry. It was mustered out of ser- vice on the 9t]i of June, 1865, at Washington. On the return of the regiment to Indianapolis, the war Governor and people tendered it special honors, and gave expression to the admiration and regard in which it was held. The 7oTH Regiment was organized within the Eleventh Congress- ional District, and left Wabash, onthe2Ist of August, 1862, for the front, under Col. I. W. Petit. It was tlie first regiment to enter Tullahoma, and oneof the last engaged in the battles of the Repub- lic. After the submission of Gen. Jolinson's army, it was mustered out at Washington, on the 8th of June 1865. The 76th Battalion was solely organized for thirty days' service Under Colonel James Gavin^ for the purpose of pursuing the rebel guerrilas, who plundered Newburg on the 13th July, 1862. It was organized and equipped within forty-eight hours, and during its term of service gained the name, " The Avengers of Newburg." The 77th, or Fourth Cavalry, was organized at the State capi- tal in August, 1862, under Colonel Isaac P. Gray. It carved its way to fame over twenty battlefields, and retired from service at Edgefield, on the 29tii June, 1865. The 79th Regiment was mustered in at Indianapolis on the 2nd September, 1862, under Colonel Fred Kneiler. Its history may be termed a record of battles, as the great numbers of battles, from 1862 to the conclusion of hostilities, were participated in by it. The regiment received its discharge on tiie 11th June, 1865, at Indianapolis. During its continued round of field duty it captured eighteen guns and over one tliousand prisoners. The SOth Regiment was organized within the First Congress- ional District under Col. C. Denby, and equipped at Indianapolis, when, on the 8th of September, 1862, it left for the front. During its term it lost only two prisoners; but its list of casualties sums up 325 men and officers killed and wounded. The regiment may be said to muster out on the 22nd of June, 1865, at Saulsbur3% The 81sT Regiment, of New Albany, under Colonel W. W. Caldwell, was organized on the 29th August, 1862j and proceeded at once to join Buell's headquarters, and join in the pursuit of General Bragg. Throughout the terrific actions of the war its influence was felt, imr did its labors cease until it aided in driving the rebels across the Tennessee. It was disembodied at Nashville HISTORY OF INDIANA. 1()7 on the 13tli J\me, 1865, and returned to Indianapolis on the 15th, to receive the well-merited congratulations of Governor Morton and the people. The S2nd Regiment, under Colonel Morton C. Hunter, was mustered in at Madison, Ind., on the 30th August, 1S62, and leaving iinnicdiately for the seat of war, participated in many of the great battles down to the return of peace. It was mustered out at Washington on the 9th June, 1865, and soon returned to its State to receive a grand recognition of its faithful service. The S3ku Regiment, of Lawrenceburg, unl, and at once assumed a prominent place in the army of Gen. Buell. Again under Roseucrans and McCook and under General Sheridan at Stone River, the services of this battery were much praised, and it retained its well-earned reputation to the very day of its muster out — the 1st of August, 1866. Its first organization was completed under Capt. A. K. Bush, and reorganized in Oct., 1864, under Capt B. F. Johnson. Tiie Fifth Battery was furnished by La Porte, Allen, Whitley and Noble counties, organized under Capt. Peter Simonson, and mus- tered into service on the 22d of November, 1861. It comprised four six pounders, two being rifled cannon, and two twelve-pounder Howitzers with a force of 158 men. Reporting at Camp Gil- bert, Louisville, on the 29th, it was shortly after assigned to the division of Gen. Mitchell, at Bacon Creek. During its term, it served in twenty battles and numerous petty actions, losing its Cap- tain at Pine Mountain. The total loss accruing to the battery was 84 men and officers and four guns It was mustered out on the 20th of July, 1864. The Sixth Battery was recruited at Evansville, under Captain Frederick Behr, and left, on the 2d of Oct., 1861, for the front, reporting at Henderson, Kentucky, a few days after. Early in 1862 it joined Gen. Sherman's army at Paducah, and participated in the battle of Shiloh, on the 6th of April. Its history grew in brilliancy until the era of peace insured a cessation of its great labors. The Seventh Battery comprised volunteers from Terre Haute, Arcadia, Evansville, Salem, Lawrenceburg, Columbus, Vin- ceniies and Indianapolis, under Samuel J. Harris as its first Captain, who was succeeded by G. R. Shallow and O. H. Mor- iran after its reorganization. From the siege of Corinth to the capture of Atlanta it performed vast services, and returned to Indianapolis on the 11th of July, 1865, to be received by the peo- ple and hear its history from the lips of the veteran patriot and Governor of the State. 1S4 IIISTOKV UK INDIANA. The Eighth Batteey, under Captain G. T. Coclirau, arrived at the front on the 26th of February, 1862, and subsequently entered upon its real duties at the siege of Corinth. It served with dis- tinction throughout, and concluded a well-made campaign under Will Stokes, who was appointed Captain of the companies with which it was consolidated in March, 1865. The Ninth Batteey. The organization of this battery was perfected at Indianapolis, on the Ist of January, 1862, under Capt. N. S. Thompson. Moving to the front it participated in the aftairs of Shiloh, Corinth, Queen's Hill, Meridian, Fort Dick Taylor, Fort de Russy, Henderson's Hill, Pleasant Hill, Cotile Landing, Bayou Rapids, Mansura, Chicot, and many others, winning a name in each engagement. The explosion of the steamer Eclipse at Johnson- ^alle, above Paducah, on Jan. 27, 1865, resulted in the destruction of 58 men, leaving only ten to represent the battery. The survivors reached Indianapolis on the 6th of March, and were mustered out. The Tenth Battery was recruited at Lafayette, and mustered in under Capt. Jerome B. Cox, in January, 1861. Having passed through the Kentucky campaign against Gen. Bragg, it partici- pated in many of the great engagements, and finally returned to report for discharge on the 6th of July, 1864, having, in the mean- time, won a very fair fame. The Eleventh Batteey was organized at Lafayette, and mus- tered in at Indianapolis under Capt. Arnold Sutermeister, on the I7th of December, 1861. On most of the principal battle-fields. from Shiloh, in 1862, to thecapture of Atlanta, it maintained a high reputation for military excellence, and after consolidation with the Eighteenth, mustered out on tlie 7th of June, 1865. Tiie Twelfth Batteey was recruited at Jeffersonville and sub- sequently mustered in at Indianapolis. On the 6th of March, 1862, it reached Nashville, having been previously assigned to Buell's Army. In April its Captain, G. W. Sterling, resigned, and tiie position devolved on Capt. James E. White, who, in turn, was suc- ceeded by James A. Dunwoody. The record of the battery holds a first place in the historj' of the period, and enabled both men and officers to look back with pride upon the battle-fields of the land. It was ordered home in June, 1865, and on reaching Indianapolis, on the Ist of July, was mustered out on the 7th of that month. The Thieteenth Batteey was organized under Captain Sewell Coulson, during the winter of 1861, at Indianapolis, and proceeded to the front in February, 1862. During the subsequent months it IlISTOKr Oh INDIANA. 185 was occupied in the pursuit of John H. Morgan's raiders, and aided effectively in driving them from Kentucky. This artillery company returned from the South on the 4th of July, 1865, and were discharged the day following. Tlie Fourteenth Battery, recruited in Wabash, Miami, Lafay- ette, and Huntington counties, under Captain M. 11. Kidd, and Lieutenant J. W. H. McGuire, left Indianapolis on the 11th of April, 1862, and within a few months one portion of it was cap- tured at Lexington by Gen. Forrest's great cavalry command. The main battery lost two guns and two men at Guntown, on the Mis- sissippi, but proved more successful at Nashville and Mobile. It arrived home on the 29th of August, 1865, received a public wel- come, and its final discharge. The Fifteenth Battery, under Captain I. C. H. Von Sehlin, was retained on duty from the date of its organization, at Indian- apolis, until the 5th of July, 1862, when it was moved to Harper's Ferry. Two months later the gallant defense of Maryland Heights was set at naught by the rebel Stonewall Jackson, and the entire garrison surrendered. Being paroled, it was reorganized at Indian- apolis, and appeared again in the field in March, 1863, where it won a splendid renown on every well-fought field to the close of the war. It was mustered out on the 24rtli of June, 1865. The Sixteenth Battery was organized at Lafayette, under Capt. Charles A. Nay lor, and on the 1st of June, 1862, left for Washington. Moving to the front with Gen. Pope's command, it participated m the battle of Slaughter Mountain, on the 9th of August, and South Mountain, and Antietam, under Gen. McClel- Ian. This battery was engaged in a large number of general en- gagements and flying column affairs, won a very favorable record, and returned on the 5tb of July, 1865. The Seventeenth Battery, under Capt. Milton L. Miner, was mustered in at Indianapolis, on the 20th of May, 1862, left for the front on the 5th of July, and subsequently engaged in the Gettys- burg expedition, was present at Harper's Ferry, July 6, 1863, and at Opequan on the 19th of September. Fisher's Hill, New Mar- ket, and Cedar Creek brought it additional honors, and won from Gen. Sheridan a tribute of praise for its service on tiiese battle grounds. Ordered from Winchester to Indianapolis it was mus- tered out there on the 3d of July, 1S65. The Eighteenth Battery, under Capt. Eli Lilly, left for the 186 HISTORY OF INDIANA. front in August, 1862, but did not take a leading part in tlie cam- paign until 1S63, when, under Gen. Rosencrans, it appeared jirom- inent at Hoover's Gap. From this period to the affairs of West Point and Macon, it performed first-class service, and returned to its State on the 25th of June, 1865. The Nineteenth Battery was mustered into service at Indian- apolis, on the 5th of August, 1862, under Capt. S. J. Harris, and proceeded immediately afterward to the front, where it participated in the campaign against Gen. Bragg. It was present at every post of danger to the end of the war, when, after the surrender of John- son's army, it returned to Indianapolis. Reaching that city on the 6th of June, 1865. it was treated to a public reception and received the congratulations of Gov. Morton. Four days later it was discharged, p The Twentieth Battery, organized under Capt. Frank A. Rose, left the State capital on the 17th of December, 1862, for the front, and reported immediately at Henderson, Kentuck}'. Subsequently Captain Rose resigned, and, in 1863, under Capt. Osborn, turned over its guns to the 11th Indiana Batter}', and was assigned to the charge of siege guns at Nashville. Gov. Morton had the battery supplied with new field pieces, and by the 5th of October, 1863, it was again in the field, where it won many honors under Sherman, and continued to exercise a great influence until its return on the 23d of June, 1865. The Twenty first Battery recruited at Indianapolis, under the direction of Captain W. W. Andrew, left on the 9th of September, 1862, for Covington, Kentucky, to aid in its defense against the advancing forces of Gen. Kirby Smith. It was engaged in numerous military affairs and may be said to acquire many honors, although its record is stained with the names of seven deserters. The battery was discharged on the 21st of June, 1865. The Twenty-second Battery was mustered in at Indianapolis on the 15th of December, 1862, under Capt. B. F. Denning, and moved at once to the front. It took a very conspicuous part in the pursuit of Morgan's Cavalry, and in many other affairs. It threw the first shot into Atlanta, and lost its Captain, who was killed in the skirmish line, on the 1st of July. While the list of casualties numbers only 35, that of desertions numbers 37. This battery was received with public honors on its return, the 25th of June, 1865, and mustered out on the 7th of the same month. niSTOKY OF INDIANA. 1S7 Tlie Twenty-third Battery, recruited in Octolier 1S62, and mustered in on the 8th of November, under Capt. I. II. Myers, pro- ceeded south, after having rendered very ef&eieiit services at honn' in guarding the camps of rebel prisoners. In July, 1865, the battery took an active part, under General Boyle's command, in routing and capturini^ the raiders at Brandenburgh, and subsequently to the close of the war performed very brilliant exploits, reaching Indianapolis in June, 1865. It was discharged ou tlie 27th of that month. The Twenty-fourth Battery, under Capt. I. A. Simms, was ' enrolled for service on the 29tli of November, 1862; remained at Indianapolis on duty until the 13thof March, 1863, when it left for the field. From its participation iu the Cumberland River campaign, to its last engagement at Columbia, Tennessee, it aided materially in bringing victory to the Union ranks and made for itself a widespread fame. Arriving at Indianapolis on the 2Sth of July, it was publicly received, and in five days later disembodied. The Twenty -FIFTH Battery was recruited in September and Oc- tober, 1864, and mustered into service for one year, under Capt. Frederick C. Sturm. December 13th, it reported at Nashville, and took a prominent part in the defeat of Gen. Hood's army. Its duties until July, 1865, were continuous, when it returned to report for final discharge. The Twenty-sixth Battery, or "Wilder's Battery," was re- cruited under Capt. I. T. Wilder, of Greensburg, in May, 1861; but was not mustered in as an artillery company. Incorporating itself with a regiment then forming at Indianapolis it was mustered as company "A," of the 17th Infantry, with Wilder as Lieutenant- Colonel of the regiment. Subsequently, at Elk Water, Virginia, it was converted into the "First Independent Battery," and became known as " Rigby's Battery." The record of this battery is as brilliant as any won during the war. On every field it has won a distinct reputation; it was well worthy the enthusiastic reception given to it on its return to Indianapolis on the 11th and 12th of July, 18G5. During its term of service it was subject to many transmutations; but in every pliase of its brief history, areputation fir gallantry and patriotism was maintained which now forms a living testimonial to its services to the ])ul)lic. The total number of battles in the " War of the Rebellion " in whicli the patriotic citizens of the great and noble State of Indiana were more or less engaged, was as follows: 188 HISTOKT OF INDIANA. Locality. No. of Battles. Locality. No of Battles. Virginia 90 Maryland 7 Tennessee 51 Texas 3 Georgia 41 South Carolina 2 Mississippi 24 Indian Territory 2 Arkansas 19 Pennsylvania 1 Kentucky 16 Ohio , 1 Louisana ig Indiana 1 Missouri 9 North Carolina 8 Total 308 The regiments sent forth to the defense of the Republic in the hour of its greatest peril, when a host of her own sons, blinded by some unholy infatuation, leaped to arms that they might trample upon the liberty-giving principles of the nation, have been passed in ver}' brief review. The authorities chosen for the dates, names, and figures are the records of tlie State, and the main subject is based upon the actions of those 267,000 gallant men of Indiana who rushed to arms in defense of all for which their lathers bled, leaving their wives and children and homes in the guardianship of a truly paternal Government. The relation of Indiana to the Republic was then established; for when the population of the State, at the time her sons went forth to participate in war for the maintenance of the Union, is brought into comparison with all other States and countries, it will be apparent that the sacrifices made by Indiana from lS61-'65 equal, if not actually exceed, the noblest of those recorded in the history of ancient or modern times. Unprepared for the terrible inundation of modern wickedness, which threatened to deluge the country in a sea of blood and rob, a people of their richest, their most prized inheritance, the State rose above all precedent, and under the benign influence of patriot- ism, guided by the well-directed zeal of a wise Governor and Government, sent into the field an army that in numbers was gigantic, and in moral and physical excellence never equaled It is laid down in the official reports, fnrnisiied to the War De- partment, that over 200,000 troops were specially organized to aid in crushing the legionsof the slave-holder; that no less than 50,000 militia were armed to defend the State, and that the large. l)nt abso- lutely necessary number of commissions issued was IT, 114. All this proves the scientific skill and military economy exercised by the Governor, and brought to the aid of tlie people in a most terri- ble emergency; for he, with some prophetic sense of the gravity of the situation, saw that unless the greatest powers of the Union were put forth to crush the least justifiable and most pernicious HISTORY OF INDIANA. 189 of all rebellions holding a place in the record of nations, the best blood of the country would flow in a vain attempt to avert a catas- trophe which, if prolonged for many years, would result in at least the moral and commercial ruin of the country. The part which Indiana took in the war against the Rebellion is one of which the citizens of the State may well be proud. In the number of troops furnished, and in the amount of voluntary con- tributions rendered, Indiana, in proportion and wealth, stands equal to any of her sister States. " It is also a subject of gratitude and thankfulness," said Gov. Morton, in his message to the Legis- lature, " that, while the number of troops furnished by Indiana alone in this great contest would have done credit to a first-class nation, measured by the standard of previous wars, not a single battery or battalion from this State has brought reproach upon the national flag, and no disaster of the war can be traced to any want of fidelit}', courage or eSiciency on the part of any Indiana officer. The endurance, heroism, intelligence and skill of the officers and soldiers sent forth by Indiana to do battle for the Union, have shed a luster on our beloved State, of which any people might justly be proud. Without claiming superiority over our loyal sister States, it is but justice to the brave men who have represented us on almost every battle-field of the war, to say that their deeds have placed Indiana in the front rank of those heroic States which rushed to the rescue of the imperiled Grovernraent of the nation. The total number of troops furnished by the State for all terms of service exceeds 200,000 men, much the greater portion of them being for three years; and in addition thereto not less than 50,000 State militia have from time to time been called into active service to repel rebel raids and defend our southern border from inva- sion." AFTER THE WAR. In 1867 the Legislature comprised 91 Republicans and 59 Dem- ocrats. Soon after the commencement of the session. Gov. Morton resigned his office in consequence of having been elected to the tf S. Senate, and Lieut.-Gov. Conrad Baker assumed the Executive chair during the remainder of Morton's term. This Legislature, by a very decisive vote, ratified the 14th amendment to the Federal Constitution, constituting all persons born in the country or sub- ject to its jurisdiction, citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside, without regard to race or color; reduc- 190 HISTOKY OK INDIANA ing the Congressional representation in any State iu which thera should be a restriction of the exercise of the elective franchise on account of race or color; disfranchising persons therein named wiio shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States; and declaring that the validity of the public debt of the United States authorized by law, shall not be questioned. This Legislature also passed an act providing for the registry of votes, the punishment of fraudulent practices at elections, and for the apportionment and compensation of a Board of Registration ; this Board to consist, in each township, of two freeholders appointed by the County Commissioners, together with the trustee of sncli township; in cities the freeholders are to be appointed in each ward by the city council. The measures of this law are very strict, and are faithfully executed. No cries of fraud m elections are heard in connection with Indiana. This Legislature also divided the State into eleven Congressional Districts and apportioned their representation; enacted a law for the protection and indemnity of all officers and soldiers- of the United States and soldiers of the Indiana Legion, for acts done in the military service of the United States, and in the military ser- vice of the State, and in enforcing the laws and preserving the peace of the country; made definite appropriations to the several benevolent institutions of the State, and adopted several measures for the encouragement of education, etc. In 1S68, Indiana was the first in the field of national politics, both the principal parties holding State conventions early in the year. The Democrats nominated T. A. Hendricks for Governor, and denounced in their platform the reconstruction policy of the Republicans; recommended that United States treasury notes be substituted for national bank currency; denied that the General Government had a right to interfere with the question of sutfrage in any of the States, and opposed negro suffrage, etc. ; while the Republicans nominated Conrad Baker for Governor, defended its reconstruction policy, opposed a further contraction of the currency, etc. The campaign was an exciting one, and Mr. Baker was elected Governor by a majority of only 96L In the Presidential election that soon followed the State gave Grant 9,572 more than Se}'mour. , During 1868 Indiana presented claims to the Government for about three and a half millions dollars for expenses incurred in the war, and .Si. 058. 917. 94: was allowed. Also, this year, a legislative o niSTOEY OF INDIANA. 193 coiTimission reported that $413,599.48 were allowed to parties suf- fering loss by the Morgan raid. This year Governor Baker obtained a site for the House of Refuge. (See a subsequent page.) The Soldiers' and Seamen's Home, near Knightstown, originally established by private enter- prise and benevolence, and adopted by the Legislature of the previous year, was in a good condition. Up to that date the insti- tution had afforded relief and temporary subsistence to 400 men who had been disabled in the war. A substantial brick building had been built for the home, while the old buildings were used for an orphans' department, in which were gathered 86 children of deceased soldiers. DIVORCE LAWS. By some mistake or liberal design, the early statute laws of Indiana on the subject of divorce were rather more loose than those of most other States in this Union; and this subject had been a matter of so much jest among the public, that in 1870 the Governor recommended to the Legislature a reform in this direction, which was pretty effectually carried out. Since that time divorces can be granted only for the following causes: 1. Adultery. 2. Impo- tency existing at the time of marriage. 3. Abandonment for two years. 4. Cruel and inhuman treatment of one party by the other. 5. Habitual drunkenness of either party, or the failure of the hus- band to make reasonable provision for the family. 6 The failure of the husband to make reasonable provision for the family for a period of two years. 7. The conviction of either party of an infamous crime. FINANCIAL. Were it not for political government the pioneers would have got along without money much longer than they did. The pressure of governmental needs was somewhat in advance of the monetary income of the first settlers, and the little taxation required to carry on the government seemed great and even oppressive, especially at certain periods. In November, 1821, Gov. Jennings convened the Legislature in extra session to provide for the payment of interest on the State debt and a part of the principal, amounting to $20,000. It was thought that a sufficient amount would be realized in the notes of the State bank and its branches, although they were considerably depreciated Said the Governor: " It will be oppressive if the State, after the paper of this institution (State bank) was author- ized to be circulated in revenue, should be prevented by any assign- ment of the evidences ot existing debt, from discharging at least so much of that debt with the paper of the bank as will absorb the collections of the present year; especially when their notes, after being made receivable by the agents of the State, became greatly depreciated by great mismanagement on the part of the bank itself. It ought not to be expected that a public loss to the State should be avoided by resorting to any measures which would not comport with correct views of public justice; nor should it be anticipated that the treasury of the United States would ultimately adopt measures to secure an uncertain debt which would inter- fere with arrangements calculated to adjust the demand against the State without producing any additional embarrassment." The state of the public debt was indeed embarrassing, as the bonds which had been executed in its behalf had been assigned. The exciting cause of this proceeding consisted in the machinations of unprincipled speculators. Whatever disposition the principal bank may have made of the funds deposited by the United States, the connection of interest between the steam-mill company and the bank, and the extraordinary accommodations, as well as their amount, effected by arrangements of the steam-mill agency and some ^■^f the oificers of the bank, were among the principal causes which HISTOEY OF INDIANA. 19*,,. liad prostrated the paper circulating raediura of the State, so far as if was dependent on the State bank and its branches. An abnormal; state of affairs like this very naturall}' produced a blind di&busBe»- nient of the fund to some extent, and this disbursement wouldi fee:' called by almost every one an " unwise administration." During the first 16 years of this century, the belligerent condi- tion of Europe called for agricultural supplies from America^ andi the consequent high price of grain justified even the remote pio- neers of Indiana in undertaking the tedious transportation of the products of the soil which the times forced upon them. The large- disbursements made by the general Government among the peo- ple naturally engendered a rage for speculation; numerons banks with fictitious capital were established; immense issues of paper were made; and the circulating medium of the country was in- creased fourfold in the course of two or three years. This infla- tion produced the consequences which always follow such a scheme,, namely, unfounded visions of wealtii and splendor and the wild investments which result in ruin to the many and wealth to the few. The year 1821 was consequently one of great financial panic, and was the first experienced by the early settlers of the West. In 1822 the new Governor, William Hendricks, took a hoi>eful view of the situation, referring particularly to the "agricultural' and social happiness of the State." The crops were abundant this- year, immigration was setting in heavily and everything seemed to-' iiave an upward look. But tlie customs of the white race still com- pelling them to patronize European industries, combined with the- remoteness of the surplus produce of Indiana from European mar- kets, constituted a serious drawback to the accumulation of wealth. Such a state of things naturally changed the habits of the people to some extent, at least for a short time, assimilating them to those of more primitive tribes. Tiiis change of custom, however, was not severe and protracted enough to change the intelligent and social nature of the people, and they arose to tlieir normal height on the very first opportunit}'. In 1822-'3, before speculation started up again, the surplus money was invested mainly in domestic manufactories instead of other and wilder commercial enterprises. Ilome manufactories were what the people needed to make them more independent. They not only gave employment to thousands whose services were before tliat valueless, but also created a market for a great portiore-- 196 HISTORY OF INDIANA. iif the surplus produce of the farmers. A part of the surphis cap- ital, however, was also sunk in internal improvements, some of which were unsuccessful for a time, but eventually proved remu- nerative. Noah Noble occupied the Executive chair of the State from 1831 to 1837, commencing his duties amid peculiar embarrassments. The crops of 1832 were short, Asiatic cholera came sweeping along the Ohio and into the interior of the State, and the Black Hawk war raged in the Northwest, — all these at once, and 3'et the work of internal improvements was actually begun . STATE BANK. The State bank of Indiana was established by law January 28, 1834. The act of the Legislature, by its own terms, ceased to be a law, January 1, 1857. At the time of its organization in 1834, its outstanding circulation was $4,208,725, with a debt d ue to the insti- tution, principally from citizens of the State, of $6,095,368. During the years 1857-'58 the bank redeemed nearly its entire circulation, providing for the redemption of all outs:anding obligations; at this time it had collected from most of its debtors the money which they owed. Tlie amounts of the State's interest in the stock of tiie bank was $1,390,000, and the money thus invested was procured by the issue of five per cent bonds, the last of which was payable July 1,1866. The nominal profits of the bank were $2.7s0,604.36. By the law creating the sinking fund, that fund was appropriated, first, to pay the principal and interest on the bonds; secondly, the expenses of the Commissioners; and lastly the cause of common-school educa- tion. The stock in all the branches authorized was subscribed by indi- viduals, and the installment paid as required by the charter. The loan authorized for the payment on the stock allotted to the State, amounting to $500,000, was obtained at a premium of 1.05 per per cent, on five per cent, stock, making the sum of over $5,000 on the amount borrowed. In 1836 we find tliat the State bank was doinjrgood service; agricultural products were abundant, and the market was good; consequently the people were in the full enjoy- ment of all the blessings of a free government. By the year 1843 the State was experiencing the disasters and cmbarassment consequent upon a system of over-banking, and its natural progeny, over-trading and deceptive speculation. Such a ttateof things tends to relax the hand of industry by creating false HISTORY OF INinANA. 197 notions of wealth, and tempt to sudden acquisitions by means as delu- sive in their results as they are contrary to a primary law of nature. The people began more than ever to see the necessity of falling back upon that branch of industry for which Indiana, especially at that time, was particularly fitted, namely, agriculture, as the true and lasting source of substantial wealth. Gov. Whitcomb, lS43-'49, succeeded well in maintaining the credit of the State. Measures of compromise between the State and its creditors were adopted by which, ultimately, the public works, although incomplete, were given in payment for the claims against the Government. At the close of his term, Gov. Whitcomb was elected to the Senate of the United States, and from December, 1848, to Decem- ber, 1849, Lieut-Gov. Paris C. Dunning was acting Governor. In ISol a general banking law was adopted whicli gave a new impetus to the commerce of the State, and opened the way for a broader volume of general trade; but this law was the source of many abuses; currency was expanded, a delusive idea of wealth again prevailed, and as a consequence, a great deal of damaging speculation was indulged in. In 1857 the charter of the State bank expired, and the largo gains to the State in that institution were directed to the promotion of common-school education. WEALTH AND PROGRESS. During the war of the Rebellion the financial condition of the people was of course like that of the other Northern States generally. 1870 found the State in a very prosperous condition. October 31 of this year, the date of the fiscal report, there was a surplus of $373,249 in the treasury. The receipts of the year amounted to $3,605,639, and the disbursements to $2,943,600, leaving a balance of $1,035,288. The total debt of the State in November, 1871, was $3,937,821. At the present time the principal articles of export from the State are flour and pork. Nearly all the wheat raised within the State is manufactured into flour within its limits, especially in the north- ern part. The pork business is the leading one in the southern part of the State. When we take into consideration the vast extent of railroad lines in this State, in connection with the agricultural and mineral resources, both developed and undeveloped, as already noted, we can 198 HISTORY OF INDIANA. see what a substantial foundation exists for the future welfare of this great commonwealth. Almost every portion of the State is coming up equally. Tiie disposition to monopolize does not exist to a greater degree than is desirable or necessary for healthy compe- tition. Speculators in flour, pork and other commodities appeared during the war, but generally came to ruin at their own game. The agricultural community here is an independent one, under- standing its rights, and " knowing them will maintain them." Indiana is more a manufacturing State, also, than many imagine. ^t probably has the greatest wagon and carriage manufactory in the -^world. In 1875 the total number of manufacturing establishments •in this State was 16,812; number of steam engines, 3,68-1, with a iota! horse-power of 114,961 ; the total horse-power of water wheels, 38.611; number of hands employed in the manufactories, 86,102; i;apital employed, is $117,462,161 ; wages paid, $35,461,987; cost of auaterial, $104,321,632; value of products, $301,304,271. These figures are on an average about twice what they were only live years previously, at which time they were about double what they were tea years before that. In manufacturing enterprise, it is said that Indiana, in proportion to her population, is considerably in advance -of Illinois and Michigan. In 1870 the assessed valuation of the real estate in Indiana was $460,120,974; of personal estate, $203,334,070; true valuation of .lx>th, $1,268,180,543. According to the evidences of increase at that time, the value of taxable property in this State must be double •the foregoing figures. This is utterly astonishing, especially when -ws consider what a large matter it is to double the elements of a ilarge and wealthy State, compared with its increase in infancy. The taxation for State purposes in 1870 amounted to $2,943,078; sfor county purposes, $4,054,476; and for municipal purposes, '.$3,193,577. Tiie total county debt of Indiana in 1870 was $1,127,- -^69, and the total debt of towns, cities, etc., was $2,523,934. In the compilation of this statistical matter we have before us the ■statistics of every element of progress in Indiana, in the U. S. Oensus Reports; but as it would be really improper for us further ■to burden these pages with tables or columns of large numbers, we ■will conclude by remarking that if any one wishes further details in these matters, he can readily find them in the Census Reports of 'the Government in any city or village in the country. Besides, -almost any one can obtain, free of charge, from his representative in HISTORY OF INDIANA. 199 Congress, all tliese and other public documents in which he may be interested. INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. This subject began to be agitated as early as 1818, during the administration of Governor Jennings, who, as well as all the Governors succeeding hitn to 1843, made it a special j)oint in their messages to the Legislature to urge the adoption of measures for the construction of highways and canals and the improvement of the navigation of rivers. Guv. Hendricks in 1822 specified as the most important improvement the navigation of the Falls of the Ohio, the Wabash and White rivers, and other streams, and the construction of the National and other roads through the State. In 1S26 Governor Ray considered the construction of roads and canals as a necessity to place the State on an equal financial footing with the older States East, and in 1829 he added: "This subject can never grow irksome, since it must be the source of the bless- ings of civilized life. To secure its benefits is a duty enjoined upon the Legislature by the obligations of the social compact." In 1830 the people became much excited over the project of con- necting the streams of the country by "The National New York & Mississippi railroad." The National road and the Michigan and Oliio turnpike were enterprises in whicii the people and Legis- lature of Indiana were interested. The latter had already been the cause of much bitter controversy, and its location was then the subject of contention. In 1832 the work of internal improvements fairly commenced, despite the partial failure of the crops, the Black Hawk war and the Asiatic cholera. Several war parties invaded the Western settlements, exciting great alarm and some suffering. This year the canal commissioners completed the task assigned them and had negotiated the canal bonds in New York city, to the amount of $100,000, at a premium of 13J- per cent., on terms honorable to the State and advantageous to the work. Before the close of tnis year §54.000 were spent for the improvement of the Michigan road, and $52,000 were realized from the sale of lands appropriated for its construction. In 1832, 32 miles of the Wabash and Erie canal was placed under contract and work commenced. A communication was addressed to the Governor of Ohio, requesting him to call the attention of the Legislature of that State to the subject of the extension of the canal from the Indiana line through Ohio to tjje ^00 HISTORY OF INDIANA. Lake. In compliance with this request, Governor Lucas promptly laid the subject before the Legislature of the State, and, in a spirit of courtesy, resolutions were adopted by that body, stipulating that if Ohio should ultimately decline to undertake the completion of that portion of the work within her limits before the time fixed by the act of Congress for the completion of the canal, she would, on just and equitable terms, enable Indiana to avail herself of the bene- fit of the lands granted, by authorizing her to sell them and invest the proceeds in the stock of a company to be incorporated by Ohio; and that she would give Indiana notice of her final determination on or before January 1, 1838. The Legislature of Ohio also authorized and invited the agent of the State of Indiana to select, survey and set apart the lands lying within that State. In keeping with this policy Governor Noble, in 1834, said:. "With a view of engaging in works of internal improvement, the propriety of adopting a general plan or system, having reference to the several portions of the State, and the connection of one with the other^ naturally suggests itself. No work should be commenced but such as would be of acknowledged public utility, and when completed would form a branch of some general system. In view of this object, the policy of organizing a Board of Public "Works is again respectfully suggested." The Governor also called favorable atten- tion to the Lawrenceburg & Indianapolis railway, for which a charter had been granted. In 1835 the Wabash & Erie canal was pushed rapidly forward. The middle division, extending from the St. Joseph dam to the forks of the Wabash, about 32 miles, was completed, for about $232,000, including all repairs. Upon this portion of the line nav- igation was opened on July 4, which day the citizens assembled "to witness the mingling of the waters of the St. Joseph with those of the Wabash, uniting the waters of the northern chain of lakes with those of the Gulf of Mexico in the South." On other parts of the line the work progressed with speed, and the sale of canal lands was unusually active In 1836 the first meeting of the State Board of Internal Im- provement was convened and entered upon the discharge of its numerous and responsible duties. Having assigned to each mem- ber the direction and superintendence of a portion of the work, the next duty to be performed preparatory to the various spheres of active service, was that of procuring the requisite number of engineers. A delegation was sent to the Eastern cities, but returned HISTORY OF INDIANA. 201 without engaging an Engineer-in-Chicf for the roads and railways, and without the desired number for the subordinate station; but after considerable delay the Board was fully organized and put in operation. Under their management work on public improve- ments was successful; the canal progressed steadily; the naviga- tion of the middle division, from Fort Wayne to Huntington, was uninterrupted; 10 miles of the line between Huntington and La Fontaine creek were filled with water this year and made ready for navigation; and the remaining 20 miles were completed, except a portion of the locks; from La Fontaine creek to Logansport prog- ress was made; the line from Georgetown to Lafayette was placed under contract; about 30 miles of the Whitewater canal, extending from Lawrenceburg through the beautiful valley of the White- water to BrookviUe, were also placed under contract, as also 23 miles of the Central canal, passing through Indianapolis, on which work was commenced; also about 20 miles of the southern divis- ion of this work, extending from Evansville into the interior, were also contracted for; and on the line of the Cross-Cut canal, from Terre Haute to the intersection of the Central canal, near the mouth of Eel river, a commencement was also made on all the heavy sections. All this in 1836. Early in this year a party of engineers was organized, and directed to examine into the practicability of the Michigan & Erie canal line, then proposed. The report of their operations favored its expediency. A party of engineers was also fitted out, who entered upon the field of service of the Madison & Lafayette railroad, and contracts were let for its construction from Madison to Vernon, on which work was vigorously commenced. Also, con- tracts were let for grading and bridging the New Albany & Vin- cennes road from the former point to Paoli, about 40 miles. Other roads were also undertaken and surveyed, so that indeed a stupendous system of internal improvement was undertaken, and as Gov. Noble truly remarked, upon the issue of that vast enter- prise the State of Indiana staked her fortune. She had gone too far to retreat. In 1837, when Gov. Wallace took the Executive chair, the reaction consequent upon '• over work " by the State in the internal improvement scheme began to be felt by the people. They feared a State debt was being incurred from which they could never lie extricated; but the Governor did all he could throughout the term of his administration to keep up the courage of the citizens. He 202 UISTOKY OF INDIANA. told them that the astonishing success so far, surpassed even the hopes of the most sanguine, and that the flattering auspices of the future were sufhcient to dispel every doubt and quiet every fear. Notwithstanding all his efforts, however, the construction of pub- lic works continued to decline, and in his last message he exclaimed: " Never before — I speak it advisedly — never before have you wit- nessed a period in our local history that more urgently called for tlie exercise of all the soundest and best attributes of grave and patriotic legislators than the present. * . * * The truth is — and it would be folly to conceal it — we have our hands full — full to overflowing; and therefore, to sustain ourselves, to preserve the credit and character of the State unimpaired, and to continue her hitherto unexampled march to wealth and distinction, we have not an hour of time, nor a dollar of money, nor a hand employed in labor, to squander and dissipate upon mere objects of idleness, or taste, or amusement." The State had borrowed $3,827,000 for internal improvement pur- poses, of which $1,327,000 was for the Wabash & Erie canal and the remainder for other works. The five per cent, interest on debts — about $200,000 — which the State had to pay, had become burdensome, as her resources for this purpose were only two, besides direct taxation, and they were small, namely, the interest on the balances due for canal lands, and the proceeds of the third installment of the surplus revenue, both amounting, in 183S, to about $45,000. In August, 1839, all work ceased on these improvements, with one or two exceptions, and most of the contracts were surrendered to the State. This was done according to an act of the Legislature providing for the compensation of contractors by the issue of treasury notes. In addition to this state of aflairs, the Legisla- ture of 1839 had made no provision for the payment of interest on the State debt incurred for internal improvements. Concerning this situation Gov. Bigger, in 1840, said that either to go ahead with the works or to abandon them altogether would be equally ruinous to the State, the implication being that the people should wait a little while for a breathing spell and then take hold again. Of course much individual indebtedness was created during the progress of tlie work on internal improvement. When operations ceased in 1839, and prices fell at the same time, the people were left in a great measure without the means of commanding money to pay their debts. This condition of private enterprise more than HISTORY OK INDIANA. 2U3 ever rendered direct taxation inexpedient. Hence it became the policy of Gov. Bigger to provide tlic means of paying tlie interest on tlie State debt vvitliout increasing tlie rate of taxation, and to continue that portion of the public works that could be immedi- atelj- completed, and from which the earliest returns could be expected. In ISJrO the system embraced ten difterent works, the most im- ])ortantof which was the Wabash & Erie canal. The aggregate length of the lines embraced in the system was 1,1G0 miles, and of this only 140 miles had been completed. The amount expended had reached the sura of $5,600,000, and it required at least $14,000,- 000 to complete them. Although the crops of 1841 were very remunerative, this perquisite alone was not sufficient to raise the State again up to the level of going ahead with her gigantic works. We should here state in detail the amount of work completed and of money expended on the various works up to this time, 1841, which were as follows: 1. The Wabash & Erie canal, from the State line to Tippe- canoe, 129 miles in length, completed and navigable for the whole length, at a cost of $2,041,012. This sum includes the cost of the steamboat lock afterward completed at Delphi. 2. The extension of the Wabash & Erie canal from the mouth of the Tippecanoe to Terre Haute, over 104 miles. The estimated cost of this work was $1,500,000; and the amount expended for the same $408,855. The navigation was at this period o])ened as far down as Lafayette, and a part of the work done in the neighbor- hood of Covington. 3. The cross-cut canal from Terre Haute to Central canal, 49 miles in length; estimated cost, $718,672; amount expended, $420,679; and at this titneno part of the course was navigable. 4. The White Water canal, from Lawrenceburg to the mouth of Nettle creek, 76i miles; estimated cost, $1,675,738; amount expended to that date, $I,099,'^67; and 31 miles of the work was navigable, extending from the Ohio river to Brookville. 5. The Central canal, from the Wabash & Erie canal, to Indianapolis, including the feeder bend at Muncietown, 124 miles in length; total estimated cost, $2,299,853; amount expended, $568,046; eight miles completed at that date, and other portions nearly done. 2U4 UISTOKT OF INDIANA. 6. Central canal, from Indianapolis to Evansville on the Ohio river, 194 miles in length; total estimated cost, $3,532,394; amount expended, $831,302, 19 miles of which was completed at tiiat date, at the southern end, and 16 miles, extending south from Indianao- olis, were nearly completed. 7. Erie & Michigan canal, 182 miles in length; estimated cost, $2,624,823; amount expended, $156,394. No part of this work finished. 8. The Madison & Indianapolis railroad, over 85 miles in length; total estimated cost, $2,046,600; amount expended, $1,493,- 013. Koad finished and in operation for about 28 miles; grad- ing nearly finished for 27 miles in addition, extending to Eden- burg. 9. Indianapolis & Lafayette turnpike road, 73 miles in length; total estimated cost, S593, 737; amount expended, $72,118. The bridging and most of the grading was done on 27 miles, from Crawfordsville to Lafayette. 10. New Albany & Vincennes turnpike road, 105 miles in length; estimated cost, $1,127,295; amount expended, $654,411. Forty-one miles graded and macadamized, extending from New Albany to Paoli, and 27 miles in addition partly graded. 11. Jefferson ville & Crawfordsville road, over 164 miles long; total estimated cost, $1,651,800; amount expended, $372,737. Forty -five miles were partly graded and bridged, extending from JeS'ersonville to Salem, and from Greencastle north. 12. Improvement of the Wabasii rapids, undertaken jointly by Indiana and Illinois; estimated cost to Indiana, $102,500; amount expended by Indiana, $9,539. Grand totals: Length of roads and canals, 1,289 miles, only 281 of which have been finished; estimated cost of all the works, $19,914,424; amount expended, $8,164,528. The State debt at this time amounted to $18,469,146. Tiie two principal causes which aggravated the embarrassment of the State at this juncture were, first, paying most of the interest out of the money borrowed, and, secondly, selling bonds on credit. The first error subjected the State to the payment of compound interest, and the people, not feeling the pressure of taxes to discharge the interest, natu- rally became inattentive to the public policy pursued. Postpone- ment of the payment of interest is demoralizing in every way. During this period the State was held up in an unpleasant manner before the gaze of the world; but be it to the credit of this great HISTORY OF INDIANA. 205 aud glorious State, she would not repudiate, as many other States and municipalities have done. By tlie year 1850, the so-called "internal improvement" system having been abandoned, private capital and ambition pushed for- ward various "public works." During this year about 400 miles of plank road were completed, at a cost of $1,200 to $1,500 per mile, and about 1,200 miles more were surveyed and in progress. There were in the State at this time 212 miles of railroad in suc- cessful operation, of wliich 12'4 were completed this year. More than 1,000 miles of railroad were survej'ed and in progress. An attempt was made during the session of the Legislature in 1869 to re-burden the State with the old canal del)t, and the matter was considerably agitated in the canvass of 1S70. The subject of the Wabash & Erie canal was lightly touched in the Republican plat- form, occasioning considerable discussion, which probably had some effect on the election in the fall. That election resulted in an average majority in the State of about 2,864 for the Democi'acy. It being claimed that the Legislature had no authority under the constitution to tax tlie people for the purpose of aiding in the con- struction of railroads, the Supreme Court, in Aoril, 1871, decided adversely to such a claim. GEOLOGY. In 1869 the development of mineral resources in the State attracted considerable attention. Rich mines of iron and coal were ■discovered, as also tine quarries of building stone. The Vincennes railroad passed through some of the richest portions of the mineral region, the engineers of which had accurately determined the quality of richness of the ores. Near Brooklyn, abi)ut 20 miles from Indianapolis, is a fine formation of sandstone, yielding good material for buildings in the city; indeed, it is considered the best building stone in tiie State. Tlie limestone formation at Gosport, continuing 12 miles from that point, is of great variety, and includes the finest and most durable building stone in the world. Portions of it are susceptible only to the chisel; other portions are soft and can be worked with the ordinary tools. At the end of this limestone formation there commences a sandstone series of strata which extends seven miles farther, to a point about 60 miles from Indianapolis. Here an extensive coal bed is reached consisting of seven distinct veins. The first is about two feet thick, the next three feet, another four feet, and the others of various thicknesses. 206 HISTORY OF INDIANA. These beds are all easily worked, having a natural drain, and they yield heavy profits. In the whole of the southwestern part of the State and for 300 miles up the Wabash, coal exists in good quality and abundance. The scholars, statesmen and philanthropists of Indiana work- ed hard and long for the appointment of a State Geologist, with sufficient support to enable him to make a thorough geological survey of the State. A partial survey was made as early as 1837-'S, by David Dale Owen, State Geologist, but nothing more was done until 1869, when Prof. Edward T. Cox was appointed State Geolo- gist. For 20 years previous to this date the Governors urged and insisted in all their messages that a thorough survey should be made, but almost, if not quite, in vain. In 1852, Dr. Ryland T. Brown delivered an able address on this subject before the Legis- lature, showing how much coal, iron, building stone, etc., there were probably; in the State, but the exact localities and qualities not ascertained, and how millions of money could be saved to the State by the expenditure of a few thousand dollars; but "they answered the Doctor in the negative. It must have been because they hadn't time to pass the bill. They were very busy. They had to pass all sorts of regulations concerning the negro. They had to protect a good many white people from marrying negroes. And as they didn't need any labor in the State, if it was ' colored,' they had to make regulations to shut out all of that kind of labor, and to take steps to put out all that unfortunately got in, and they didn't have time to consider the scheme proposed by the white people " — W. W. Clayton. In 1853, the State Board of Agriculture employed Dr. Brown to make a partial examination of the geology of the State, at a salary of $500 a year, and to this Board the credit is due for the final success of the philanthropists, who in 1869 had the pleasure of witnessing the passage of a Legislative act '' to provide for a Depart- ment of Geology and Natural Science, in connection with the State Board of Agriculture." Under this act Governor Baker immedi- ately appointed Prof. Edward T. Cox the State Geologist, who has made an able and exhaustive report of the agricultural, mineral and manufacturing resources of this State, world-wide in its celeb- rity, and a work of which the people of Indiana may be very proud. We can scarcely give even the substance of his report in a work like this, because it is of necessity deeply scientific and made up eiitiruly of local detail. niSTOKY OK I>DIANA. 207 COAL. The coal measures, says Prof. E. T. Cox, cover an area of about 6,500 square miles, in the southwestern part of the State, and extend from Warren county on the north to the Ohio river on the south, a distance of about 150 miles. This area comprises the fol- lowing counties: Warren, Fountain, Parke, Vermillion, Vigo, Clay, Sullivan, Greene, Knox, Daviess, Martin, Gibson, Pike, Dubois, Vanderburg, Warrick, Spencer, Perry and a small part of Crav?ford, Monroe, Putnam and Montgomery. This coal is all bituminous, but is divisible into three well-marked varieties: caking-coal, non-caking-coal or block coal and cannel coal. The total depth of the seams or measures is from 600 to 800 feet, with 12 to 14 distinct seams of coal; but these are not all to be found throughout the area; the seams range from one foot to eleven feet in thickness. The caking coal prevails in the western portion of the area described, and has from three to four workable seams, ranging from three and a half to eleven feet in thickness. At most of the places where these are worked the coal is mined by adits driven in on the face of the ridges, and the deepest shafts in the State are less than 300 feet, the average depth for successful mining not being over 75 feet. This is a bright, black, sometimes glossy, coal, makes good coke and contams a very large percentage of pure illuminating gas. One pound will yield about 4J cubic feet of gas, with a power equal to 15 standard sperm candles. The average calculated calorific power of the caking coals is 7.745 heat units, pure carbon being 8,080. Both in the northern and southern portions of the field, the caking coals present similar good qualities, and are a great source of private and public wealth. The block coal prevails in the eastern part of the field and has an area of about 450 square miles. This is excellent, in its raw state, for making pig iron. It is indeed peculiarly fitted for metal- lurgical purposes. It has a laminated structure with carbonaceous matter, like charcoal, between the lamina, with slaty cleavage, and it rings under the stroke of the hammer. It is " free-burning," makes an open fire, and without caking, swelling, scaflTolding in the furnace or changing form, burns like hickory wood until it is con- sumed to a white ash and leaves no clinkers. It is likewise valuable for generati ng steam and for household uses. Many of the principal railway lines in the State are using it in preference to any other coal, as it does not burn out the fire-boxes, and gives as little trouble as wood. 208 HISTORY OF INDIANA. There are eight distinct seams of block coal in this zone, three of which are workable, having an average thickness of four feet. In some places this coal is mined by adits, but generally from sliafts, 40 to 80 feet deep. The seams are crossed by cleavage lines, and the coal is usually mined without powder, and may be taken out in blocks weighing a ton or more. When entries or rooms are driven angling across the cleavage lines, the walls of the mine present a zigzag, notched appearance resembling a Virginia worm fence. In 1871 there were about 24 block coal mines in operation, and about 1,500 tons were mined daily. Since that time this industry has vastly increased. This coal consists of SI^ to 83^ percent, of carbon, and not quite three fourths of one per cent, of sulphur. Calculated calorific power equal to 8,283 heat units. This coal also is equally good both in the northern and southern parts of the field. The great Indiana coal field is within 150 miles of Chicago or Michigan City, by railroad, from which ports the Lake Superior specular and red hematite ores are landed from vessels that are able to run in a direct course from the ore banks. Considering the proximity of the vast quantities of iron in Michigan and Missouri^ one can readily see what a glorious future awaits Indiana in respect to manufactories. Of the cannel coal, one of the finest seams to be found in the country is in Daviess county, this State. Here it is three and a half feet thick, underlaid by one and a half feet of a beautiful, jet- black caking coal. There is no clay, shale or other foreign matter intervening, and fragments of the caking coal are often found adhering to the cannel. There is no gradual change from one to the other, and the character of each is homogeneous throughout. The cannel coal makes a delightful fire in open grates, and does not pop and throw off scales into the room, as is usual with this kind of coal. This coal is well adapted to the manufacture of illuminating gas, in respect to both quantity and high illuminating power. One ton of 2,000 pounds of this coal yields 10,400 feet of gas, while the best Pennsylvania coal yields but 8,680 cubic feet. This gas has an illuminating power of 25 candles, while the best Pennsylvania coal gas has that of only 17 candles. Cannel coal is also found in great abundance in Perry, Greene, Parke and Fountain counties, where its commercial value has already been demonstrated. Numerous deposits of bog iron ore are found in the northern part of the State, and clay iron-stones and impure carbonates and brown HISTORY OF INDIANA. .>0^ oxides are found scattered in the vicinity of the coal field. In some places the beds are quite thick and of considerable commercial value. An abundance of excellent lime is also found in Indiana, espe- cially in Huntington county, where many large kilns are kept in profitable operation. AGRICULTURAL. In 1852 the Legislature passed an act authorizing the organization of county and district agricultural societies, and also establishing a State Board, the provisions of which act are substantially as follows: 1. Thirty or more persons in any one or two counties organizing into a society for the improvement of agriculture, adopting a consti- tution and by-laws agreeable to the regulations prescribed by the State Board, and appointing the proper officers and raising a sum of $50 for its own treasury, shall be entitled to the same amount from the fund arising from show licenses in their respective counties. 2. These societies shall oS"er annual premiums for improvement of soils, tillage, crops, manures, productions, stock, articles of , domestic industry, and such other articles, productions and improve- ments as they may deem proper; they shall encourage, by grant of rewards, agricultural andhousehold manufacturing interests, and so regulate the premiums that small farmers will have equal opportunity with the large; and they shall pay special attention to cost and profit of the inventions and improvements, requiring an exact, detailed statement of the processes competing for rewards. 3. They shall publish in a newspaper annually their list of awards and an abstract of their treasurers' accounts, and they shall report in full to the State Board their proceedings. Failing to do the latter they shall receive no payment from their county funds. STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. The act of Feb. 17, 1852, also established a State Board of Agri- culture, with perpetual succession; its annual meetings to be held at Indianapolis on the first Thursday after the first Monday in January, when the reports of the county societies are to be received and agricultural interests discussed and determined upon; it shall make an annual report to the Legislature of receipts, expenses, proceedings, etc., of its own meeting as well as of those of the local 210 HISTORY OF INDIANA. societies; it shall hold State fairs, at such times and places as they may deem proper; may hold two meetings a year, certifying to the State Auditor their expenses, who shall draw his warrant upon the Treasurer for the same. In 1861 the State Board adopted certain rules, embracing ten sections, for the government of local societies, but in 1868 they were found inexpedient and abandoned. It adopted a resolution admitting delegates from the local societies. THE EXPOSITION. As the Board found great difficulty in doing justice to exhibitors without an adequate building, the members went earnestly to work in the fall of 1872 to get up an interest in the matter. They appointed a committee of five to confer with the Councilor citizens of Indianapolis as to the best mode to be devised for a more thorough and complete exhibition of the industries ot the State. The result of the conference was that the time had arrived for a regular " exposition," like that of the older States. At the Janu- ary meeting in 1873, Hon. Thomas Dowling, of Terre Haute> reported for the committee that they found a general interest in this enterprise, not only at the capital, but also throughout the State. A sub-committee was appointed who devised plans and specifications for the necessary structure, taking lessons mainly from the Kentucky E.xposition building at Louisville. All the members of the State Board were in favor of proceeding with the building except Mr. Poole, who feared that, as the interest of the two enterprises were somewhat conflicting, and the Exposition being the more exciting show, it would swallow up the State and county fairs. The Exposition was opened Sept. 10, 1873, when Hon. John Sutherland, President of the Board, the Mayor of Indianajiolis, Senator Morton and Gov. Hendricks delivered addresses. Senator Morton took the high ground that the money spent for an exposi- tion is spent as strictly for educational purposes as that which goes directly into the common school. The exposition is not a mere show, to be idly gazed upon, but an industrial school where one should study and learn. He thought that Indiana had less untill- able land than any other State in the Union; 'twas as rich as any and yielded a greater variety of products; and that Indiana was the most prosperous agricultural community in the United States. niSTOKY OF INDIANA. 21) The State had nearly 3,700 miles of railroad, not connting side- track, with 400 miles more under contract for building. In 15 or 18 months one cau go from Indianapolis to every county ia tlie State by railroad. Indiana has 6,500 square miles of coal field, 450 of which contain block coal, the best iu the United States for manufacturing purposes. On the subject of cheap transportation, he said: " By the census of 1870, Pennsylvania had, of domestic animals of all kinds, 4,006,- 589, and Indiana, 4,511,094. Pennsylvania had grain to the amount of 60,460.000 bushels, while Indiana had 79,350,454. The value of the farm products of Pennsylvania was estimated to be $183,946,- 000; those of Indiana, $122,914,000. Thus you see that while Indiana had 505,000 head of live stock more, and 19,000,000 bushels of grain more than Pennsylvania, yet the products of Penn- sylvania are estimated at $183,946,000, on account of her greater proximity to market, while those of Indiana are estimated at only $122,914,000. Thus you can understand the importance of cheap transportation to Indiana. " Let us see how the question of transportation affects us on the other hand, with reference to the manufacturer of Bessemer steel Of the 174,000 tons of iron ore used iu the blast furnaces of Pitts- burg last year, 84,000 tons came from Lake Superior, 64,000 tons from Iron Mountain, Missouri, 20,000 tons from Lake Champlain, and less than 5,000 tons from the home mines of Pennsylvania., They cannot manufacture their iron with the coal they have in Pennsylvania without coking it. We have coal in Indiana with which we can, in its raw state, make the best of iron; while we are 250 miles nearer Lake Superior than Pittsburg, and 430 miles nearer to Iron Mountain. So that the question of transportation determines the fact that Indiana must become the great center for the manufacture of Bessemer steel." "What we want in this countr\' is diversified labor." The grand hall of the Exposition buildings is on elevated ground at the head of Alabama street, and commands a tine view of the city. The structure is of brick, 308 feet long by 150 in width, and two stories high. Its elevated galleries extend quite around the building, under the roof, thus affording visitors an opportunity to secure the most commanding view to be had in the city. The lower floor of the grand hall is occupied by the mechanical, geologi- cal and miscellaneous departments, and by the offices of the Board, which extend along the entire front. The second floor, which is 212 HISTORY IIF INDIANA. approached by three wide stairways, accommodates the fine art, musical and other departments of light mechanics, and is brilliantly lighted by windows and skylights. But as we are here entering the description of a subject magnificent to behold, we enter a description too vast to complete, and we may as well stop here as anywhere. The Presidents of the State Fairs have been: Gov, J. A. "Wright, lS52-'4; Gen. Jos. Orr, 1855; Dr. A. C. Stevenson, lS56-'8; G. D. "Wagner; 1859-60; D. P, Holloway, 1861; Jas, D.Williams, 1862, 1870-'l; A. D. Hamrick, 1863, lS67-'9; Stearns Fisher, lS64-'6; John Sutherland, 1872-'4; "Wm. Crim, 1875. Secretaries: John B, Dillon, 1852-'3, 1855, 1858-'9; Ignatius Brown. 1856-'7; "W.T. Den- nis, 1854, 1860-'l; "W. H. Loomis, 1862-"6; A. J. Holmes, 1867-'9; Joseph Poole, 1870-'l; Alex. Heron, lS72-'5. Place of fair, Indian- apolis every year except: Lafayette, 1S53; Madison, 1854; New Albany, 1859,- Fort Wayne, 1S65; and Terre Haute, 1867. In 1861 there was no fair. The gate and entry receipts increased from $4,651 in 1852 to $45,330 in 1874. On the opening of the Exposition, Oct. 7, 1874, addresses were delivered by the President of the Board, Hon. John Sutherland, and by Govs. Hendricks, Bigler and Pollock. Yvon's celebrated painting, the " Great Republic," was unveiled with great ceremony, and many distinguished guests were present to witness it. The exhibition of 1875 showed that the plate glass from the southern part of the State was equal to the finest French plate; that the force-blowers made in the eastern part of the State was of a world-wide reputation; that the State has within its bounds the largest wagon manufactory in the world; that in other parts of the State there were all sorts and sizes of manufactories, including roll- ing mills and blast furnaces, and in the western part coal was mined and shipped at the rate of 2,500 tons a day from one vicinity; and many other facts, which " would astonish the citizens of Indiana themselves even more than the rest of the world." INDIANA HOKTICULTCEAL SOCIETY. This society was organized in 1842, thus taking the lead in the West. At this time Henry Ward Beecher was a resident of Indian- apolis, engaged not only as a minister but also as editor of the Indiana Fanner and Gardener, and his influence was very exten- sive in the interests of horticulture, floriculture and farming. Prominent among his pioneer co-laborers were Judge Coburn, IIISTOKV l)F INDIANA. 213 Aaron Aldridge, Capt. James Sigarson, D. Y. CuUej, Reuben Raijaii, Stephen Hampton, Cornelius Ratliff, Joshua Lijidley, Abner Pope and many others. In the autumn of this year tlie society held an exhibition, probably the first in the State, if not in the West, in the hall of the new State house. The only pre- mium offered was a set of silver teaspoons for the best seedling ajjjile, which was won by Reuben Ragan, of Putnam county, for an apple christened on this occasion the " Osceola." The society gave great encouragement to the introduction of new varieties of fruit, especially of the pear, as the soil and cli- mate of Indiana were well adapted to this fruit. But the bright horizon which seemed to be at this time looming up all around the field of the young society's operations was suddenly and thoroughly darkened by the swarm of noxious insects, diseases, blasts of win- ter and the great distance to market. The prospects of the cause scarcely justified a continuation of the expense of assembling from remote parts of the State, and the meetings of the society therefore soon dwindled away until the organization itself became quite extinct. But when, in 1852 and afterward, railroads began to traverse the State in all directions, the Legislature provided for the organization of a State Board of Agriculture, whose scope was not only agri- culture but also horticulture and the mechanic and household arts. The rapid growth of the State soon necessitated a differentiation of this body, and in the autumn of 1860, at Indianapolis, there was organized the INDIANA POMOLOGICAL SOCIETr. October 18, Reuben Ragan was elected President and "Wm H. Loomis, of Marion county. Secretary. The constitution adopted provided for biennial meetings in January, at Indianapolis. At the first regular meeting, Jan. 9, 1861, a committee-man for each congressional district was appointed, all of them together to be known as the "State Fruit Committee," and twenty-five members were enrolled during this session. At the regular meeting in 1863 the constitution was so amended as to provide for annual sessions, and the address of the newly elected President, Hon. I. G. D. Nel- son, of Allen county, urged the establishment of an agricultural college. He continued in the good cause until his work was crowned with success. 214 HISTORY OF INDIANA. In 1864 there was but little done on account of the exhaust- ive demands of the great war; and the descent of mercury 60° in eighteen hours did so much mischief as to increase the discourage- ment to the verge of despair. The title of the society was at this meeting, Jan., 1864 changed to that of the Indiana Horticultural Society. The first several meetings of the society were mostly devoted to revision of fruit lists; and although the good work, from its vast- ness and complication, became somewhat monotonous, it has been no exception in this respect to the law that all the greatest and most productive labors of mankind require perseverance and toil. In 1866, George M. Beeler, who had so iudefatigably served as secretary for several years, saw himself hastening to his grave, and showed his love for the cause of fruit culture by bequeathing to the society the sum of §1,000. This year also the State Superin- tendent of Public Instruction was induced to take a copy of the Society's transactions for each of the township libraries in the State, and this enabled the Society to bind its volume of proceedings in s substantial manner. At the meeting in 1867 many valuable and interesting papers ■were presented, the office of corresponding secretary was created, and the subject of Legislative aid was discussed. The State Board of Agriculture placed the management of the horticultural depart- ment of the State fair in the care of the Society. The report for 1868 shows for the first time a balance on hand, after paying expenses, the balance being $61.55. Up to tliis time the Society had to take care of itself, — meeting current expenses, do- ing its own printing and binding, "boarding and clothing itself," and dift'using annually an amount of knowledge utterly incalcu- lable. During the year called meetings were held at Salem, in the peach and grape season, and evenings during the State fair, which was held in Terre Haute the previous fall. The State now assumed the cost of printing and binding, but the volnme of transactions was not quite so valuable as that of the former year. In 1870 $160 was given to this Society by the State Board of Agriculture, to be distributed as prizes for essays, which object was faithfully carried out. The practice has since then been con- tinued. In 1871 the Horticultural Society brought out the best volume of papers and proceedings it ever has had published. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 215 In 1872 the office of corresponding secretary was discontinued; the appropriation by the State Board of Agriculture diverted to the payment of premiums on small fruits given at a show held the previous summer; results of the exhibition not entirely satisfac- tory. In 1873 the State officials refused to publish the discussions of the members of the Horticultural Society, and the Legislature appropriated $500 for tlie purpose for each of the ensuing two years. In 1875 the Legislature enacted a law requiring that one of the trustees of Purdue University shall be selected by the Horticultu- ral Society. The aggregate annual membership of this society from its organ- ization in 1860 to 1875 was 1,225. EDUCATION. The subject of education has been referred to in almost every gubernatorial message from the organization of the Territory to the present time. It is indeed the most favorite enterprise of the Hoosier State. In the first survey of Western lands, Congress set apart a section of land in every township, generally the 16th, for school purposes, the disposition of the land to be in hands of the residents of the respective townships. Besides this, to this State were given two entire townships for the use of a State Seminary, to be under the control of the Legislature. Also, the State con- stitution provides that all fines for the breach of law and all com- mutations for militia service be appropriated to the use of county seminaries. In 1825 the common-school lands amounted to €80,207 acres, estimated at $2 an acre, and valued therefore at $1,216,044. At this time the seminary at Bloomington. supported in part by one of these township grants, was very flourishing. The common schools, however, were in rather a poor condition. PUBLIC SCHOOLS. In 1852 the free-school system was fully established, which has resulted in placing Indiana in the lead of this great nation. Al- though this is a pleasant subject, it is a very large one to treat in a condensed notice, as this has to be. The free-scliool system of Indiana first became practically oper- ative the first Monday of April, 1853, when the township trustees 216 HISTORY OF INDIANA. for school purposes were elected through the State. The law com- mitted to them the charge of all the educational affairs in their respective townships. As it was feared bj the opponents of the law that it would not be possible to select men in all the town- ships capable of executing the school laws satisfactorily, the people were thereby awakened to the necessity of electing their very best men ; and although, of course, many blunders have been made by trustees, the operation of the law has tended to elevate the adult population as well as the j'outh; and Indiana still adheres to the policy of appointing its best men to educational positions. The result is a grand surprise to all old fogies, who indeed scarcely dare to appear such any longer. To instruct the people in the new law and set tlie educational machinery going, a pamphlet of over 60 pages, embracing the law, with notes and explanations, was issued from the office of a super- intendent of public instruction, and distributed freely throughout the State. The first duty of the Board of Trustees was to establish and conveniently locate a sufficient number of schools for the edu- cation of all the children of their township. But where were the school-houses, and what were they? Previously they had been erected by single districts, but under this law districts were abol- ished, their lines obliterated, and houses previously built by dis- tricts became the property of the township, and all the houses were to be built at the expense of the township by an appropriation of township funds by the trustees. In some townships there was not a single school-house of any kind, and in others there were a few old, leaky, dilapidated log cabins, wholly unfit for use even in sum- mer, and in " winter worse than nothing." Before the people could be tolerably accommodated with schools at least 3,500 school-houses had to be erected in the State. By a general law, enacted in conformity to the constitution of 1852, each township was made a municipal corporation, and every voter in the township a member of the corporation; the Board of Trustees constituted the township legislature as well as the execu- tive body, the whole body of voters, however, exercising direct con- trol through frequent meetings called by the trustees. Special taxes and every other matter of importance were directly voted upon. Some tax-payers, who were opposed to special townships' taxes, retarded the progress of schools by refusing to pay their assess- ment. Contracts for building school-houses were given up, houses HISTORY OF INDIANA. 217 half finished were abandoned, and in many townships all school operations were suspended. In some of them, indeed, a rumor was circulated by the enemies of the law tliat the entire school law from beginning to end had been declared by the Supreme Court uncon- stitutional and void; and the Trustees, believing this, actually dis- missed their schools and considered themselves out of office. Hon. W. C. Larrabee, the (first) Superintendent of Public Instruction, corrected this error as soon as possible. But while the voting of special taxes was doubted on a constitu- tional point, it became evident that it was weak in a practical point; for in many townships the opponents of the system voted down every proposition for the erection of school-houses. Another serious obstacle was the great deficiency in the number of qualified teachers. To meet the newly created want, the law authorized the appointment of deputies in each county to examine and license persons to teach, leaving it in their judgment to lower the standard of qualification sufiiciently to enable them to license as many as were needed to supply all the schools. It was therefore found necessary to employ many " unqualified " teachers, especially in the remote rural districts. But the progress of the times enabled the Legislature of 1853 to erect a standard of qualifica- tion and give to the county commissioners the authority to license teachers; and in order to supply every school with a teacher, while there might not be a sufficient number of properly qualified teach- ers, the commissioners were authorized to grant temporary licenses to take charge of particular schools not needing a high grade of teachers. In 1854 the available common-school fund consisted of the con- gressional township fund, the surplus revenue fund, the saline fund, the bank tax fund and miscellaneous fund, amounting in all to $2,460,000. This amount, from many sources, was subsequently increased to a very great extent. The common-school fund was intrusted to the several counties of the State, which were held responsible for the preservation thereof and for the payment of the annual interest thereon. The fund was managed by the auditors and treasurers of the several counties, for which these officers were allowed one-tentii of the income. It was loaned out to the citizens of the county in sums not exceeding $300, on real estate security. The common-school fund was thus consolidated and the proceeds equally distributed eacli year to all the townships, cities and towna 218 niSTOKY OF INDIANA. of the State, in proportion to the number of children. This phase of the law met with considerable opposition in 1854. The provisions of the law for the establishment of township libraries was promptly carried into effect, and much time, labor and thought were devoted to the selection of books, special atten- tion being paid to historical works. The greatest need in 1854 was for qualified teachers; but never- theless the progress of public education during this and following years was very great. School-houses were erected, many of them being fine structures, well furnished, and the libraries were consid- erably enlarged. The city school system of Indiana received a heavy set-back in 1858, by a decision of the Supreme Court of the State, that the law authorizing cities and townships to levy a tax additional to the State tax was not in conformity with that clause in the Constitu- tion which required uniformity in taxation. The schools were stopped for want of adequate funds. For a few weeks in each year thereafter the feeble " uniform " supply from the State fund en- abled the people to open the schools, but considering the returns the public realizes for so small an outlay in educational matters, this proved more expensive than ever. Private schools increased, but the attendance was small. Thus the interests of popular edu- cation languished for years. But since the revival of the free schools, the State fund has grown to vast proportions, and the schools of this intelligent and enterprising commonwealth compare favorably with those of any other portion of the United States. There is no occasion to present all the statistics of school prog- ress in this State from the first to the present time, but some interest will be taken in the latest statistics, which we take from the 9th Biennial Eeport (for 1877-'8) by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Hon. James H. Smart. This report, by the way, is a volume of 480 octavo pages, and is free to all who desire a copy. The rapid, substantia) and permanent increase which Indiana enjoys in her school interests is thus set forth in the above report. Length Total of School No of AtteDdance School Am't Paid Tear. In Diiys. Teachers. at School. Enameration. Teachers. 1855 61 4,016 206,994 44o,791 1 23i),924 1860 65 7,649 303,744 495,019 481.020 1865 66 9,493 402,812 557,092 1,020,440 1870 97 11,826 462,527 619,627 1,810,866 1875 130 13,133 502,362 667,736 2,830,747 1878 139 13,676 512,535 699,153 3,065,968 HISTORY OF INDIANA. 310 The increase of school population during the past ten years has been as follows: Total in 1868, 592,865. Increase for year ending Increase for year ending Sept. 1,1869 17,699 May 1, 1874 13,923 " 1,1870 9,063 " 1,1875 13,373 " 1,1871 3,101 " 1,1876 11,494 " 1,1873 8,811 " 1,1877 15,476 May 1, 1873 (8 months) 8,903 " 1,1878 4,447 Total, 1878 .699,153 No. of white males 354,271 ; females 333,033 687,304 " "colored" 5,937; " 5,913 11,849 699,153 Twenty-nine per cent, of the above are in the 49 cities and 212 incorporated towns, and 71 per cent, in the 1,011 townships. The number of white males enrolled in the schools in 1878 was 267,315, and of white females, 237,739; total, 505,054; of colored males, 3,794; females, 3,687; total, 7,481; grand total, 512,535. The average number enrolled in eacli district varies from 51 to 56, and the average daily attendance from 32 to 35; but many children reported as absent attend parochial or private schools. Seventy- three per cent, of the white children and 63 per cent, of the colored, in the State, are enrolled in the schools. The number of days taught vary materially in the different town- ships, and on this point State Superintendent Smart iterates: "As long as the schools of some of our townships are kept open but 60 days and others 220 days, we do not have a uniform s)'stera, — such as was contemplated by the constitution. The school law requires the trustee of a township to maintain each of the schools in his corporation an equal length of time. This provision cannot be so easil}' applied to the various counties of the State, for the reason that there is a variation in the density of the population, in the wealth of the people, and the amount of the township funds. I think, however, there is scarcely a township trustee in the State who cannot, under the present law, if he chooses to do so, bring his schools up to an average of six months. I think it would be wise to require each township trustee to levy a sufficient local tax to maintain the schools at least six months of the year, provided this can be done without increasing the local tax beyond the amount now permitted by law. This would tend to bring the poorer schools up to the standard of the best, and would thus unify the system, and make it indeed a common-school system." 220 HISTORT OF INDIANA. The State, however, averages six and a half months school per year to each district. The number of school districts in the State in 1878 was 9,380, in all but 34 of which school was taught during that year. There are 396 district and 151 township graded schools. Number of white male teachers, 7,977, and of female, 5,699; colored, male, 62, and female, 43; grand total, 13,781. For the tea years ending with 1878 there was an increase of 409 male teachers and 811 female teachers. All these teachers, except about 200, attend normal institutes, — a showing which probably surpasses that of any other State in this respect. The average daily compensation of teachers throughout the State in 1878 was as follows: In townships, males, $1.90; females, $1.70; in towns, males, $3.09; females, $1.81; in cities, males, $4.06; females, $2.29. In 1878 there were 89 stone school-houses, 1.724 brick, 7,608 frame, and 124 log; total, 9,545, valued at $11,536,647.39. And lastly, and best of all, we are happy to state that Indiana has a larger school fund than any other State in the Union. In 1872, according to the statistics before us, it was larger than that of any other State by $2,000,000! the figures being as follows: Indiana 18,437,593.47 Michigan $2,500,214.91 Ohio 6,614.816.50 Missouri 2,525,252.52 Illinois 6,348,538.32 Minnesota 2,471,199.31 New York ... 2,880,017.01 Wisconsin 2,237,414.37 Connecticut 2,809,770.70 Massachusetts 2,310,864.09 Iowa 4,274,581.93 Arkansas 2,000,000.00 Nearly all the rest of the States have less than a million dollars in their school fund. In 1872 the common-school fund of Indiana consisted of the following: Non-negotiable bonds $3,591,316.15 Escheated estates 17.866.35 Common-srhool fund,.... 1,666,^24.50 Sinking fund, last distrib- Sinking fund, at 8 percent 509,139.94 ution 67,068.72 Congressional township Sinking fund undistrib- fund 2,281,076.69 uted 100,165.93 Value of unsold Congres- Swamp land fund 43,418.40 sional township lands.. 94,245.00 Saline fund 5,727.66 18,437,593 47 Bank tax fund 1,744.94 In 1878 the grand total was $8,974,455.55. The origin of the respective school funds of Indiana is as follows: 1. The "Congressional township" fund is derived from the proceeds of the 16th sections of the townships. Almost all of these HISTORY OF INDIANA. 221 have been sold and the money put out at interest. The amount of this fund in 1877 was $2,452,936.82. 2. The "saline" fund consists of the proceeds of the sale of salt springs, and the land adjoining necessary for working them to the amount of 36 entire sections, authorized by the original act of Congress. By authority of the same act the Legislature has made these proceeds a part of the permanent school fund. 3. The " surplus revenue " fund. Under the administration of President Jackson, the national debt, contracted by the Revolutionary war and the purchase of Louisiana, was entirely discharged, and a large surplus remained in the treasury. In June, 1836, Congress distributed this money amcng the States in the ratio of their repre- sentation in Congress, subject to recall, and Indiana's share was S860,254. The Legislature subsequently set apart $573,502.96 of this amount to be a part of the school fund. It is not probable that the general Government will ever recall this money. 4. " Bank tax " fund. The Legislature of 1834 chartered a State Bank, of which a part of the stock was owned by the State and a part by individuals. Section 15 of the charter required an annual deduction from the dividends, eqiial to 12^ cents on each share not held by the State, to be set apart for common-school education. This tax finally amounted to $80,000, which now bears interest in favor of education. 5. " Sinking " fund. In order to set the State bank under good headway, the State at first borrowed $1,300,000, and out of the unapplied balances a fund was created, increased by unapplied balances also of the principal, interest and dividends of the amount lent to the individual holders of stock, for the purpose of sinking the debt of the bank; hence the name sinking fund. The 114th section of the charter provided that after the full payment of the bank's indebtedness, principal, interest and incidental expenses, the residue of said fund should be a permanent fund, appropriated to the cause of education. As the charter extended through a period of 25 years, this fund ultimately reached the handsome amount of $5,000,000. The foregoing are all interest-bearing funds; the following are additional school funds, but not productive: 6. " Seminary " fund. By order of the Legislature in 1852, all county seminaries were sold, and the net proceeds placed in the common-school fund. 21'1 IIlSroKY OF INDIANA. 7. AH lines for the violation of the penal laws of the State are placed to the credit of the common-school fund 8. All recognizances of witnesses and parties indicted for crime, when forfeited, are collectible by law and made a part of the scliool fund. These are reported to the office of the State Superin- tendent of Public Instruction annually. For the five years ending with 1872, they averaged about $34,000 a year. 9. Escheats. These amount to $17,865.55, which was still in the State treasury in 1872 and unapplied. 10. The "swamp-land" fund arises from the sale of certain Congressional land grants, not devoted to any particular purpose by the terras of the grant. In 1872 there was $42,418.40 of this money, subject to call by the school interests. 11. Taxes on corporations are to some extent devoted by the Constitution to school purposes, but the clause on this subject is somewhat obscure, and no funds as yet have been realized from tiiis source. It is supposed that several large sums of money are due the common-school fund from the corporations. Constitutionally, any of the above funds may be increased, but never diminished. INDIANA STATE UNIVKRSITT. So early as 1802 the U. S. Congress granted lands and a charter to the people of that portion of the Northwestern Territory resid- ing at Vincennes, for the erection and maintenance of a seminary of learning in that early settled district; and five years afterward an act incorporating the Vincennes University asked the Legisla- ture to appoint a Board of Trustees for the institution and order the sale of a single township in Gibson county, granted by Congress in 1802, so that the proceeds miglit be at once devoted to the objects of education. On this Board the following gentlemen were ap- pointed to act in the interests of the institution: William H. Ilar- rison, John Gibson, Thomas H. Davis, Henry Vanderburgh, Wal- ler Taylor, Benjamin Parke, Peter Jones, James Johnson, John Rice Jones, George Wallace, William Bullitt, Ehas McNamee, John Badolett, Henry Hurst, Gen. W. Johnston, Francis Vigo, Jacob Kuykendall, Samuel McKee. Nathaniel Ewing, George Leech, Luke Decker, Samuel Gwathmey and John Johnson. Tiie sale of this land was slow and the proceeds small. The members of the Board, too, were apathetic, and failing to meet, the institution fell out of existence and out of memnry. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 223 In 1816 Congress granted another township in Monroe county, located within its present limits, and the foundation of a university was laid. Four years later, and after Indiana was erected into a State, an act of the local Legislature appointing another Board of Trustees and authorizing them to select a location for a university and to enter into contracts for its construction, was passed. The new Board met at Bloomington and selected a site at that place for the location of the present building, entered into a contract for the erection of the same in 1822, and in 1825 had the satisfaction of being present at the inauguration of the university. The first session was commenced under the Rev. Baynard R. Hall, with 20 students, and when the learned professor could only boast of a salary of $150 a year; yet, on this very limited sum the gentleman worked with energy and soon brought the enterprise through all its elementary stages to the position of an academic institution. Dividing the year into two sessions of five months each, the Board acting under his advice, changed the name to the " Indiana Academy," under which title it was duly chartered. In 1827 Prof. John H. Harney was raised to the chairs of mathematics, natural philosophy and astronomy, at a salary of $300 a year; and the salary of Mr. Hall raised to $400 a year. In 1S28 the name was again changed by the Legislature to the " Indiana College," and the following professors appointed over the different departments; Rev. Andrew Wylie, D. D., Prof, of mental and moral philosophy and belles lettres; John H. Harney, Prof, of mathematics and natural philosophy ; and Rev. Bayard R. Hall, Prof, of ancient languages. This year, also, dispositions were made for the sale of Gibson county lands and for the erection of a new college building. This action was opposed by some legal difficulties, which after a time were overco>ne, and the new college building was put under construction, and continued to prosper until 1854, when it was destroyed by fire, a-nd 9,000 volumes, with all the apparatus, were consumed The curriculum was then carried out in a temporary building, while a new struct- ure was going up. In 1873 the new college, with its additions, was completed, and the routine of studies continued. A museum of natural history, a laboratory and the Owen cabinet added, and the standard of the studies and morale generally increased in excellence and in strict- ness. Bloomington is a fine, healthful locality, on the Louisville, New Albany & Chicago railway. The University buildings are in the ii24 HISTORY OF INDIANA. collegiate Gothic style, simply and truly carried out. The buildiDg, fronting College avenue is l-iS feet in front. It consists of a central building 60 feet by 53, with wings each 38 feet by 26, and the whole, three stories high. The new building, fronting the west, is 130 feet by 50. Buildings lighted by gas. The faculty numbers thirteen. Number of students in the col- legiate department in 1879-'80, ]S3; in preparatory, 169; total, 349, allowing for three counted twice. The university may now be considered on a fixed founaation, car- rying out the intention of the President, who aimed at scholarship rather than numbers, and demands the attention of eleven pro- fessors, together with the State Geologist, who is ex-officio member of the faculty, and required to lecture at intervals and look after the geological and mineralogical interests of the institution. The faculty of medicine is represented by eleven leading physicians of the neighborhood. The faculty of law requires two resident professors, and the other chairs remarkably well represented. The university received from the State annually about $15,000, and promises with the aid of other public grants and private dona- tions to vie with any otlier State university within the Republic. PUKDUE UNIVEESITT. This is a " college for the benefit of agricultural and the mechanic arts," as provided for by act of Congress, July 2, 1862, donating lands for this purpose to the extent of 30,000 acres of the public domain to each Senator and Representative in the Federal assem- bly. Indiana having in Congress at that time thirteen members, became entitled to 390,000 acres; but as there was no Congress land in the State at this time, scrip had to be taken, and it was upon the following condition (we quote the act): " Section 4. That all moneys derived from the sale of land scrip shall be invested in the stocks of the United States, or of some other safe stocks, yielding no less than five per centum upon the par value of said stocks; and that the moneys so invested shall constitute a perpetual fund, the capital of which shall remain undi- minished, except so far as may be provided in section 5 of this act, and the interest of which shall be inviolably appropriated by each State, which may take and claim the benefit of this act, to the endowment, support and maintenance of at least one college, where the leading object shall be, without excluding other scientific and HISTORY OF INDIANA. 226 classical studies, and including military tactics, to teach such branches of learning as are related to agriculture and the mechanic arts, in such a manner as the Legislatures of the States may re- spectively prescribe, in order to promote the liberal and practical education of the industrial classes in the several pursuits and pro- fessions of life. " Sec. 5. That the grant of land and land scrip hereby author- ized shall be made on the following conditions, to which, as well as the provision hereinbefore contained, the previous assent of the several States shall be signified by Legislative act: " First. If any portion of the funds invested as provided by the foregoing section, or any portion of the interest thereon, shall by any action or contingency be diminished or lost, it shall be replaced by the State to which it belongs, so that the capital of the fund shall remain forever undiminished, and the annual interest shall be regularly applied, without diminution, to the purposes mentioned in the fourth section of this act, except that a sum not exceeding ten per centum upon the amount received by any State under the pro- visions of this act may be expended for the purchase of lands for sites or experimental farms, whenever authorized by the respective Legislatures of said States. " Second. No portion of said fund, nor interest thereon, shall be applied, directly or indirectly, under any pretence whatever, to the purchase, erection, preservation or repair of any building or buildings. " Third. Any State which may take and claim the benefit of the provisions of this act, shall provide, within five years at least, not less than one college, as provided in the fourth section of this act, or the grant to such State shall cease and said State be bound to pay the United States the amount received of any lands pre- viously sok^., and that the title to purchase under the States shall be valid. " Fourth. An annual report shall be made regarding the prog- ress of each college, recording any improvements and experiments made, with their cost and result, and such other matter, including State industrial and economical statistics, as may be supposed use- ful, one copy of which shall be transmitted by mail free, by each, to all other colleges which may be endowed under the provisions of this act, and also one copy to the Secretary of the Interior. ''Fifth. When lands snail be selected from those which have been raised to double the minimum price in consequence of railroad 226 HI8T0BT OF INDIANA. grants, that they shall be computed to the States at the maximum price, and the number of acres proportionately diminished. "Sixth. No State, while in a condition of rebellion or insur- rection against the Government of the United States, shall be entitled to the benefits of this act. "Seventh. No State shall be entitled to tlie benefits of this act unless it shall express its acceptance thereof by its Legislature within two years from the date of its approval by the President." The foregoing act was approved by the President, July 2, 1862. It seemed that this law, amid the din of arms with the great Rebel- lion, was about to pass altogether unnoticed by the next General Assembly, January, 1863, had not Gov. Morton's attention been called to it by a delegation of citizens from Tippecanoe county, who visited him in the interest of Battle Ground. He thereupon sent a special message to the Legislature, upon the subject, and then public attention was excited to it everywhere, and several localities competed for the institution ; indeed, the rivalry was so great that this session failed to act in the matter at all, and would have failed to accept of the grant within the two years prescribed in the last clause quoted above, had not Congress, by a supplementary act, extended the time two years longer. March 6, 1865, the Legislature accepted the conditions ot the national gift, and organized the Board of " Trustees of the Indiana Agricultural College." This Board, by authority, sold the scrip April 9, 1867, for $212,238.50, which sum, by compounding, has increased to nearly $400,000, and is invested in U. S. bonds. Not until the special session of May, 1869, was the locality for this col- lege selected, when John Purdue, of Lafayette, offered $150,000 and Tippecanoe county $50,000 more, and the title of the institution changed to " Purdue University." Donations were also made by the Battle Ground Institute and the Battle Ground Institute of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The building was located on a 100-acre tract near Chauncey, which Purdue gave in addition to his magnificent donation, and to which 86^ acres more have since been added on the north. The boarding-house, dormitory, the laboratory, boiler and gas house, a frame armory and gymnasium, stable with shed and work-shop are all to the north of the gravel road, and form a group of build- ings within a circle of 600 feet. The boiler and gas house occupy a rather central position, and supply steam and gas to the boarding- house, dormitory and laboratory. A description of these buildings HISTORY OF INDIANA. 227 may be apropos. The boarding-hou^e is a brick structure, in the modern Italian style, planked by a turret at each of the front angles and measuring 120 feet front by 68 feet deep. The dormitory is a quadrangular edifice, in the plain Elizabethan style, four stories high, arranged to accommodate 125 students. Like the other build- ings, it is heated by steam and lighted by gas. Bathing accommo- dations are in each end of all the stories. The laboratory is almost a duplicate of a similar department in Brown University, R. I. It is a much smaller building than the boarding-house, but yet suffi- ciently large to tneet the requirements. A collection of minerals, fossils and antiquities, purchased from Mr. Richard Owen, former President of the institution, occupies the temporary cabinet or museum, pending the construction of a new building. The military hall and gymnasium is 100 feet frontage by 50 feet deep, and only one story high. The uses to which tiiis hall is devoted are exer- cises in phj'sical and military drill. The boiler and gas house is an establishment replete in itself, possessing every facility for supply- ing the buildings of the university with adequate heat and light. It is further provided with pumping works. Convenient to this department is the retort and great meters of the gas house, capable of holding 9,000 cubic feet of gas, and arranged upon the principles of modern science. The barn and shed form a single building, both useful, convenient and ornamental. In connection with the agricultural department of the universit}', a brick residence and barn were erected and placed at the disposa' of the farm superintendent, Maj. L. A. Burke. The buildings enumerated above have been erected at a cost appro.xi mating the following: boarding-house, $37,807.07; labora- tory, $15,000; dormitory, $32,000; military hall and gymnasium, $6,410.47; boiler and gas house, $4,814; barn and shed, $1,500; work-shop, ^1,000; dwelling and barn, $2,500. Besides the original donations. Legislative appropriations, vary- ing in amount, have been made from time to time, and Mr. Pierce, the treasurer, has donated his official salary, $600 a A-ear, for the time he served, for decorating the grounds, — if necessary. The opening of the university was, owing to varied circumstan- ces, postponed from time to time, and not until March, 1S74, was a class formed, and this only to comply with the act of Congress in that connection in its relation to the university. However, in September following a curriculum was adopted, and the first regu- lar term of the Purdue University entered upon. This curriculum 228 HISTOKT OF INDIANA. comprises the varied subjects generally ]>ert:iining to :i first-class university course, namely: in the school of natural science^ physics and industrial mechanics, chemistr}' and natural history; in the school of engineering — civil and mining, together with the principles of architecture; in the school of agriculture — theoret- ical and practical agriculture, horticulture and veterinary science; in the military school — the mathematical sciences, German and French literature, free-hand and mechanical drawing, with all the studies pertaining to the natural and military sciences. Modera languages and natural history embrace their respective courses to the fullest extent. There are this year (1880) eleven members of the faculty, 86- students in the regular courses, and 117 other students. In respect to attendance there has been a constant increase from the first. The first year, 1874:-'5, there were but 64 students. INDIANA STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. This institution was founded at Terre Haute in 1870, in accord- ance with the act of the Legislature of that year. The building is a large brick edifice situated upon a commanding location and possessing some architectural beauties. From its inauguration many obstacles opposed its advance toward efficiency and success; but the Board of Trustees, composed of men experienced in edu- cational matters, exercised their strength of mind and body to overcome every difficulty, and secure for the State Normal School every distinction and emolument that lay within their power, their efforts to this end being very successful; and it is a fact that the institution has arrived at, if not eclipsed, the standard of their expectations. Not alone does the course of study embrace the legal subjects known as reading, writing, spelling, arithmetic, geography, United States history, English grammar, physiology, manners and ethics, but it includes also universal liistory, the mathematical sciences and many other subjects foreign to older institutions. The first studies are prescribed by law and must be inculcated; the second are optional with the professors, and in the case of Indiana generally hold place in the curriculum of the nor- mal school. The model, or training school, specially designed for the training^ of teachers, forms a most iinpDrtant factor in State educational matters, and prepares teachers of both sexes for one of the most important positions in life; viz., that of educating the youth of the HISTORY OF INDIANA. 22!» State. The advanced course of studies, together witli tlie higlicr studies of the normal school, embraces Latin and German, and pre- pares young men and women for entrance to tlie State University. The efficiency of this school may be elicited from the following facts, taken from the official reports: out of 41 persons who liad graduated from the elementary course, nine, after teaching success- fully in the public schools of this State from two terms to two years, returned' to the institution and sought admission to the advanced classes. They were admitted; three of them were gentle- men and six ladies. After spending two years and two terms in the elementary course, and then teaching in the schools during the time already mentioned they returned to spend two and a half or three years more, and for the avowed purpose of qualifying them- selves for teaching in the most responsible positions of the public school service. In fact, no student is admitted to the school who does not in good faith declare his intention to qualify himself for teaching in the schools of the State. This the law requires, and the rule is adhered to literally. The report further says, in speaking of the government of the school, that the fundamental idea is rational freedom, or that free dom which gives exemption from the power of control of one ov^i' another, or, in other words, the self-limiting of themselves, in their acts, by a recognition of the rights of others who are equally free. The idea and origin of the school being laid down, and also the means by which scholarship can be realized in the individual, the student is left to form his own conduct, both during session hours and while away from school. The teacher merely stands between this scholastic idea and the student's own partial conception of it, as expositor or interpreter. The teacher is not legislator, executor or police officer; he is expounder of the true idea of school law, so that the only test of the student's conduct is obedience to, or nonconformity with, that law as interpreted by the teacher. This idea once inculcated in the minds of the students, insures industry, punctuality and order, NORTHERN INDIANA NORMAL SCHOOL AND BUSINESS INSTITUTE, VALPARAISO. , This institution was organized Sept. 16, 1S73, with 35 studentsr in attendance. The school occupied the building known as the Valparaiso Male and Female College building. Four teachers. 230 HISTORY OF INDIANA. were employed. The attendance, so small at first, increased rap- idly and steadil}', until at the present writing, the seventh year in the history of the school, the yearly enrollment is more than three thousand. The number of instructors now employed is 23. From time to time, additions have been made to the school buildings, and numerous boarding halls have been erected, so that now the value of the buildings and grounds ojvned by the school is one hundred thousand dollars. A large library has been collected, and a complete equipment of philosophical and chemical apparatus has been purchased. The department of physiology is supplied with skeletons, manikins, and everything necessary to the demonstration of each branch of the subject. A large cabinet is provided for the study of geology. In feet, each department of the school is completely furnished with the apparatus needed for the most approved presentation of every subject. There are 15 chartered departments in the institution. These are in charge of thorou^^h, energetic, and scholarly instructors, and send forth each year as graduates, a large numberof finely cultured young ladies and gentlemen, living testimonials of the efficiency of the course of study and the methods used. The Commercial College in connection with the school is in itself a great institution. It is finely fitted up and furnished, and ranks foremost among the business colleges of the United States. The expenses for tuition, room and board, have been made so low that an opportunity for obtaining a thorough education is presented to the poor and the rich alike. All of this work has been accomplished in the short space of seven years. The school now holds a high place among educational institutions, and is the largest normal school in the United States. This wonderful growth and development is wholly due to the energy and faithfulness of its teachers, and the unparalleled exec- ntive ability of its proprietor and principal. The school is not endowed. DENOMINATIONAL AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS. Nor is Indiana behind in literary institutions under denomina- tional auspices. It is not to be understood, however, at the present day, that sectarian doctrines are insisted upon at the so-called " denominational" colleges, universities and seminaries; the youth at these places are influenced only by Christian e.xample. iriSTOKY OF INDIANA. 231 Notre Dame Unioertiiti/, near South Bend, is a Catholic institu- tion, and is cue of tlie most noted in the United States. It was founded in 1842 by Father Sorin. The first building was erected in 1843, and the university has continued to grow and prosper until tlie present time, now having 35 professors, 26 instructor.-*, 9 tutors, 213 students and 12,000 volumes in library. At present the main building has a frontage of 224 feet and a depth of 155. Thousands of young people have received their education here, and a large number have been graduated for the priesthood. A chapter was held here in 1872, attended by delegates from all parts of the world. It is worthy of mention that this institution has a bell weighing 13,000 pounds, the largest in the United States and one of the finest in the world. The Indiana Anbury University, at Greencastle, is an old and well-established institution under the auspices of the Methodist Episcopal Church, named after its first bishop, Asbury. It was founded in 1S35, and in 1872 it had nine professors and 172 students. Howard College, not denominational, is located at Kokomo, and was founded in 1S69. In 1872 it had five professors, four instrnctora, and 0!) students. Union Christian College, Christian, at Merom, was organized in 1858, and in 1872 had four resident professors, seven instructors and 156 students. Moore's Hill College, Methodist Episcopal, is situated at Moore's Hill, was founded in 1854, and in 1872 had five resident professors, five instructors, and 142 students. Earlhain's College, at Richmond, is under the management of the Orthodox Friends, and was founded in 1859. In 1872 they had si.\ resident professors and 167 students, and 3,300 volumes in library. Wabash College, at Crawfordsville, was organized in 1834, and had in 1872, eight professors and teachers, and 231 students, with about 12.000 volumes in the library. It is under Presbyterian management. Concordia College, Lutheran, at Fort Wayne, was founded in 1850; in 1872 it had four professors and 148 students: 3,000 volumes in library. Hanover College, Presbyterian, was organized in 1833, at Han- over, and in 1872 had seven professors and 118 students, and 7,000 volumes in library. 2J2 HISTORY OF INDIANA. Hartsville University, United Brethren, at Hartsville, was founded in 1854, and in 1872 liad seven professors and 117 students. Northwestern Christian University, Disciples, is located at Trvington, near Indianapolis. It was founded in 1854, and by 1872 it had 15 resident professors, 181 students, and 5,000 volumes in library. BENEVOLENT AND PENAL INSTITUTIONS. By the year 1830, the influx of paupers and invalid persons was so great that the Governor called upo!i the Legislature to take steps toward regulating the matter, and also to provide an asylum for the poor, but that body was very slow to act on the matter. At the present time, however, there is no State in the Union which can boast a better system of benevolent institutions. The Benevo- lent Society of Indianapolis was organized in 1843. It was a pioneer institution; its field of work was small at tirst, but it has grown into great usefulness. INSTITUTE FOR THE EDUCATION OF THE BLIND. Inbehalf of the blind, the tirst effort was made by James 'SL. Ray, about 1846. Througii his etibrts William II. Churciimaii came from Kentucky with blind pupils and gave exhibitions in Mr. Beeclier's church, in Indianapolis. These entertainments were attended by members of the Legislature, for whom indeed they were especially intended; and the effect upon them was so good, that before they adjourned the session they adopted measures to es- tablish an asylum for tiie blind. The commission appointed to carry out these measures, consisting of James M. Ray, Geo. W. Mears, and the Secretary, Treasurer and Auditor of State, engaged Mr. Churchman to make a lecturing tour through the State and collect statistics of the blind population. The " Institute for the Education of the Blind " was founded by the Legislature of 1847, and first opened in a rented building Oct. 1, of that year. The permanent buildings were opened and occu- pied in February, 1853. The original cost of the buildings and ground was $110,000, and the present valuation of buildings and grounds approximates $300,000. The main building is 90 feet long by 61 deep, and with its right and left wings, each 30 feet in front and S3 in depth, give an entire frontage of 150 feet. The main building is five stories in height, surmounted by a cupola of BISTORT OF INDIANA. 235 the Corinthian style, while each wing is similarly overcapped The porticoes, cornices and verandahs are gotten up with exquisite taste, and the former are molded after the principle of Ionic archi- tecture. The building is very favorably situated, and occupies a space of eight acres. The nucleus of a fund for supplying indigent graduates of the institution with an outfit suitable to their trades, or with money in lieu thereof, promises to meet with many additions. The fund is the ont-come of the benevolence of Mrs. Fitzpatrick, a resident of Delaware, in this State, and appears to be suggested by the fact that her daughter, wiio was smitten with blindness, studied as a pupil in the institute, and became singularly attached to many of its inmates. The following passage from the lady's will bears testimony not only to her own sympathetic nature but also to the efficiency of the establishment which so won her esteem. " I give to each of the following persons, friends and associates of my blind daughter, Margaret Louisa, the sura of $100 to each, to wit, viz; Melissa and Phoebe Garrettson, Frances Cunditi', Dallas Newland, Naomi Unthunk, and a girl whose name before marriage was Rachel Martin, her husband's name not recollected. The balance of my estate, after paying the expenses of administering, I give to the superintendent of the blind asylum and his successor, in trust, for the use and benefit of the indigent blind of Indiana who may attend the Indiana blind asylum, to be given to them on leaving in such sums as the superintendent may deem proper, but not more than $.50 to any one person. I direct that the amount above direct- ed be loaned at interest, and the interest and principal be distributed as above, agreeably to the best judgment of the superintendent, 80 as to do the greatest good to the greatest number of blind persons." The following rules, regulating the institution, after laying down in preamble that the institute is strictly an educational estab. lishment, having its main object the moral, intellectual and phys- ical training of the young blind of the State, and is not an asylum for the aged and helpless, nor an hospital wherein the diseases of the eye may be treated, proceed as follows: 1. The school year commences the first Wednesday after the 15th day of September, and closes on the last Wednesday in June, showing a session of 40 weeks, and a vacation terra of 84 days. 2. Applicants for admission must be from 9 to 21 years of age; but the trustees have power to admit blind students under 9 or 230 HISTOEY OF INDIANA. over 21 years of age; but this power is extended only in very extreme cases. 3. Imbecile or unsound persons, or confirmed immoralists, cannot be admitted knowingly; neither can admitted pupils who prove disobedient or incompetent to receive instruction be retained on the roll. i. JMo charge is made for the instruction and board given to pupils from the State of Indiana; and even those without the State have only to pay $200 for board and education during the 40 weeks' session. 5. An abundant and good supply of comfortable clothing for both summer and winter wear, is an indispensable adjunct of the pupil. 6. The owner's name must be distinctly marked on each article of clothing. 7. In cases of extreme indigence the institution may provide clothing and defray the traveling expenses of sucli pupil and levy the amount so expended on the county wherein his or her home is situated. 8. The pupil, or friends of the pupil, must remove him or her from the institute during the annual vacation, and in case of their failure to do so, a legal provision enables the superintendent to forward such pupil to the trustee of the township wliere lie or she resides, and the expense of such transit and board to be charged to the county. 9. Friends of the pupils accompanying them to the institution, or visiting them thereat, cannot enter as boarders or lodgers. 10. Letters to the pupils should be addressed to the care of the Superintendent of the Institute for the Education of the Blind, so as the Ijetter to insure delivery. 11. Persons desirous of admission of pupils should apply to the superintendent for a printed copy of instructions, and no pupil should be sent thereto until the instructions have been complied with. INSTITUTE FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB. In 1843 the Governor was also instructed to obtain plans and information respecting the care of mutes, and the Legislature also levied a tax to provide for them. The first one to agitate tlie subject was William Willard, himself a mute, who visited Indiana in 1843, and opened a school for mutes on his own account, with 16 pupils. HISTORY OF INDIANA. 'Sdl The next year the Legislature adopted this school as a State insti- tution, appointing a Board of Trustees for its management, consist- ing of the Governor and Secretary of State, ex-officio,aiid Revs. Henry Ward Beecher, Phineas D. Gurley, L. II. Jameson, Dr. Dunlap, lion. James Morrison and Rev. Matthew Simpson. They rented the large building on the southeast corner of Illinois and Maryland streets, and opened the first State asylum there in 1844; but in 1846, a site for a permanent building just eastof Indianapolis was selected, consisting first of 30 acres, to which 100 more have been added. ■On this site the two first structures were commenced in 1849, and ■completed in the fall of 1S50, at a cost of $30,000. The school was immediately transferred to the new building, where it is still flourishing, with enlarged buildings and ample facilities for instruc- tion in agriculture. In 186!)-'70, another building was erected, and the three together now constitute one of the most benefi- cent and beautiful institutions to be found on this continent, at an aggregate cost of $220,000. The main building has a fagade of 260 feet. Here are the oflices, study rooms, the quarters of officers and teachers, the pupils' dormitories and the librar}'. The center of this building has a frontage of eighty feet, and is five stories high, with wings on either side 60 feet in frontage. In this Central structure are the store rooms, dining-hall, servants' rooms, hospital, laundry, kitchen, bakery and several school-rooms. Another struct- ure known as the " rear building " contains the cha])el and another set of school-rooms. It is two stories high, tiie center being 50 feet square and the wings 40 by 20 feet. In addition to these there are many detached buildings, containing the shops of the industrial department, the engine-house and wash-house. The grounds comprise 105 acres, which in the immediate vicinity of the buildings partake of the character of ornamental or pleasure gardens, comprising a space devoted to fruits, flowers and veget- ables, while the greater part is devoted to pasture and agriculture. Tiie first instructor in the institution was Win. Willard, a deaf mute, who had up to 1844 conducted a small school for the instruc- tion of the deaf at Indianapolis, and now is employed by the State, at a salary of $800 per annum, to follow a similar vocation in its service. In 1853 he was succeeded bj' J. S. Brown, and subse- ■quently by Thomas Mclntire, who continues principal of the institution. 238 HISTOKY OF INDIANA. HOSPITAL FOE THE INSANE. The Legislature of 1832-'3 adopted measures providing for a State hospital for the insane. This good work would liave been done much earlier had it not been for the hard times of 1837, intensified by the results of the gigantic scheme of internal improve- ment. In order to survey the situation and awaken public sympa- thy, the county assessors were ordered to make a return of the insane in their respective counties. During the year lSi2 the Governor, acting under the direction of the Legislature, procured considerable information in regard to hospitals for the insane in other States; and Dr. John Evans lectured before the Legislature on the subject of insanity and its treatment. As a result of these eflForts the authorities determined to take active steps for the estab- lishment of such a hospital. Plans and suggestions from the superintendents and linspitals of other States were submitted to the Legislature in lS-i4, which body ordered the levy of a tax of one cent on the $100 for the purpose of establishing the hospital. In 1845 a commission was appointed to obtain a site not exceeding 200 acres. Mount Jackson, then the residence of Nathaniel Bolton, was selected, and the Legislature in 1846 ordered the commissionera to proceed with the erection of the building. Accordingly, in 1847, the central building was completed, at a cost of §75,000. It has since been enlarged by the addition of wings, some of which are larger than the old central building, until it has become an immense structure, having cost over half a million dollars. The wings of the main building are four stories high, and entirely devoted to wards for patients, being capable of accommodating 500. The grounds of the institution comprise 160 acres, and, like those of the institute for the deaf and dumb, are beautifully laid out. This hospital was opened for the reception of patients in 1848. The principal structure comprises what is known as tiie central building and the right and left wings, and like the institute for the deaf and dumb, erected at various times and proba'jly under various adverse circumstances, it certainly does not hold the appearance of any one design, but seems to be a combination of many. Not- withstanding these little defects in arrangement, it presents a very imposing appearance, and shows what may be termed a frontage HISTORY OF INDIANA. 239 of 624 feet. The central building is iive stories in height and con- tains the store-rooms, oflSces, reception parlors, medical dispensing rooms, mess-rooms and the apartments of the superintendent and other officers, with those of the female employes. Immediately in the rear of the central building, and connected with it by a corridor, is the chapel, a building 50 by 60 feet. This chapel occupies the third floor, while the under stories hold the kitchen, baker}', employes' dining-room, steward's office, employes' apart- ments and sewing rooms. In rear of this again is the engine- house, 60 by 50 feet, containing all the paraphernalia for such an establishment, such as boilers, pumping works, fire plugs, hose, and above, on the second floor, the laundry and apartments of male employes. THE STATE PRISON SOUTH. The first penal institution of importance is known as the "State Prison South," located at Jeffersonville, and was the only prison until 1859. It was established in 1821. Before that time it was customary to resort to the old-time punishment of the whipping- post. Later the manual labor system was inaugurated, and the convicts were hired out to. employers, among whom were Capt. Westover, afterward killed at Alamo, Texas, with Crockett, James Keigwin, who in an aflVay was fired at and severely wounded by a convict named Williams, Messrs. Patterson Hensley, and Jos. R. Pratt. During the rule of the latter of these lessees, the atten- tion of the authorities was turned to a more practical method of utilizing convict labor; and instead of the prisoners being per- mitted to serve private entries, their work was turned in the direc- tion of their own prison, where for the next few years they were emploj'ed in erecting the new buildings now known as the " State Prison South." This structure, the result of prison labor, stands on 16 acres of ground, and comprises the cell houses and work- shops, together with the prisoners' garden, or pleasure-ground. It seems that in the erection of these buildings the aim of the overseers was to create so many petty dungeons and unventilated laboratories, into which disease in every form would be apt to creep. This fact was evident from the high mortality character- izing life within the prison; and in the eflbrts made by the Government to remedy a state of things which had been permitted to exist far too long, the advance in prison reform has become a reality. From 1857 to 1871 the labor of the prisoners was devoted 240 HISTOET OF INDIANA. to the manufacture of wagons and farm implements; and again the old policy of hiring the convicts was resorted to; for in the latter year, 1871, the Southwestern Car Company was organized, and every prisoner capable of taking a part in the work of car-building; was leased out. This did very well until the panic of 1873, when the company suffered irretrievable losses; and previous to its final down-fall in 1876 the warden withdrew convict labor a second time,, leaving the prisoners to enjoy a luxurious idleness around the prison which themselves helped to raise. In later years the State Prison South has gained some notoriety from the desperate character of some of its inmates. During the- civil war a convict named Harding luutilated in a most horrible manner and ultimatel}' killed one of the jailors named Tesley. In 1874, two prisoners named Kennedy and Applegate, possessing^ themselves of some arms, and joined by two other convicts named Port and Stanley, made a break for freedom, swept past the guard. Chamberlain, and gained the fields. Chamberlain went in pursuit but had not gone very far when Kennedy turned on his pursuer, fired and killed him instantly. Subsequently three of the prisoners, were captured alive and one of theni paid the penalty of death, while Kennedy, the murderer of Chamberlain, failing committal for murder, was sent back to liis old cell to spend the remainder of his life. Bill Rodifer, better known as "The Hoosier Jack Sheppard,'* effected his escape in 1875, in the very presence of a large guard,, but was recaptured and has since been kept in irons. This establishment, owing to former mismanagement, has fallen very much behind, financially, and has asked for and received an appropriation of $20,000 to meet its expenses, while the contrary- is the case at the Michigan City prison. THE STATE TEISON NORTH. In 1859 the first steps toward the erection of a prison in the northern part of the State were taken, and by an act of the Legis- lature approved March 5, this year, authority was given to construct prison buildings at some point north of the National road. For this- purpose §50,000 were appropriated, and a large number of convicts from the JeSersonville prison were transported northward to Michigan City, which was just selected as the location for the new penitentiary. The work was soon entered upon, and continued to meet with additions and improvements down to a very recent period. So late as 1875 the Legislature appropriated $20,000 HISTORY OF INDIANA. 241 toward the construction of new cells, and in other directions also the work of improvement has been going on. The system of government and discipline is similar to that enforced at the Jeffer- sonville prison; and, strange to say, by its economical working has not only met the expenses of the administration, but very recently had amassed over $11,000 in excess of current expenses, from its annual savings. This is due almost entirely to the continual employment of the convicts in the manufacture of cigars and chairs, and in their great prison industry, cooperage. It differs widely from the Southern, insomuch as its sanitary condition has been above the average of similar institutions. The strictness of its silent system is better enforced. The petty revolutions of its inmates have been very few and insignificant, and the number of punishments inflicted comparatively small. From whatever point this northern prison may be looked at, it will bear a very favorable comparison with the largest and best administered of like establish- ments throughout the world, and caimot fail to bring high credit to its Board of Directors and its able warden. FEMALE PRISON AND REFORMATORY. The prison reform agitation which in this State attained telling proportions in 1S69, caused a Legislative measure to be brought forward, which would have a tendency to ameliorate the condition of female convicts. Gov. Baker recommended it to the General Assembly, and the members of that body showed their appreciation of the Governor's philanthropic desire by conferring upon the bill the authority of a statute; and further, appropriated $50,000 to aid in carrying out the objects of the act. The main provisions con- tained in the bill ma}' be set forth in the following extracts from the proclamation of the Governor: " Whenever said institution shall have been proclaimed to be open for the reception of girls in the reformatory department thereof, it shall be lawful for said Board of Managers to receive them into their care and management, and the said reformatory department, girls under the age of 15 years who may be committed to their custody, in either of the following modes, to-wit: " 1. When committed by any judge of a Circuit or Common Pleas Court, either in term time or in vacation, on complaint and due proof by the j)arent or guardian that by reason of her incorrig- ible or vicious conduct she has rendered her control beyond the power of such parent or guardian, and made it manifestly requisite 242 HISTOKY OF INDIAXA. that from regard to the future welfare of such infant, and for the protection of society, she should be placed under such guardianship. " 2. When such infant has been committed by such judge, as aforesaid, upon complaint by any citizen, and due proof of such complaint that such infant is a proper subject of the guardianship of such institution in consequence of her vagrancy or incorrigible or vicious conduct, and tliat from the moral depravity or other- wise of her parent or guardian in whose custody she may be, such parent or guardian is incapable or unwilling to exercise the proper care or discipline over such incorrigible or vicious infant. "3. When such infant has been committed by such judge as aforesaid, on complaint and due proof thereof by the township trustee of the township where such infant resides, that such infant is destitute of a suitable home and of adequate means of obtaining an honest living, or that she is in danger of being brought up to lead an idle and immoral life." In addition to these articles of the bill, a formal section of instruction to the wardens of State prisons was embodied in the act, causing such wardens to report the number of all the female convicts under their charge and prepare to have them transferred to the female reformatory immediately after it was declared to be ready for their reception. After the passage of the act the Governor appointed a Board of Managers, and these gentlemen, securing the services of Isaac Hodgson, caused him to draft a plan of the proposed institution, and further, on his recommendation, asked the people for an appropriation of another $50,000, which the Legislature granted in February, 1873. The work of construc- tion was then entered upon and carried out so steadilj', that on the 6th of September, 1873, the building was declared ready for the reception of its future inmates. Gov. Baker lost no time in proclaiming this fact, and October 4 he caused the wardens of the State p>-i8on8 to be instructed to transfer all the female convicts in their custody to the new institution which may be said to rest on the o>dvanced intelligence of the age. It is now called the " Indiana Reformatory Institution for Women and Girls." This building is located immediatelv north of the deaf and dumb asylum, near the arsenal, at Indianapolis. It i? a three- Btorj' brick structure in the French style, and shows a frontage of 174 feet, comprising a main building, with lateral and transverse wings. In front of the central portion is the residence of the superintendent and his associate reformatory officers, while in the HISTORY OF INDIANA. 243 rear is the engine house, witli all the ways and means for heating the buildings. Enlargements, additions and improvements are still in progress. There is also a school and library in the main building, which are sources of vast good. October 31, 1879, there were 66 convicts in the " penal" depart- ment and 147 in the " girls' reformatory " department. The " ticket-of-leave " system has been adopted, with entire satisfaction, and the conduct of the institution appears to be up with the times. INDIANA HOUSE OF REFUGE. In 1867 the Legislature appropriated $50,000 to aid in the formation of an institution to be entitled a house for the correction and reformation of juvenile defenders, and vested with full powers in a Board of Control, the members of which were to be appointed by the Governor, and with the advice and consent of the Senate. This Board assembled at the Governor's house at Indianapolis, April 3, 1867, and elected Charles F. Coffin, as president, and visited Chicago, so that a visit to the reform school there might lead to a fuller knowledge and guide their future proceedings. The House of Refuge at Cincinnati, and the Ohio State Reform school were also visited with this design ; and after full consider- ation of the varied governments of these institutions, the Board resolved to adopt the method known as the " family " system, ■which divides the inmates into fraternal bodies, or small classes, each class having a separate house, house father and family offices, — all under the control of a general superintendent. The system being adopted, the question of a suitable location next presented itself, and proximity to a large city being considered rather detrimental to the welfare of such an institution. Gov. Baker selected the site three-fourths of a mile south of Plaintield, and about fourteen miles from Indianapolis, which, in view of its eligibility and convenience, was fully concurred in by the Board of Control. Therefore, a farm of 225 acres, claiming a fertile soil and a most picturesque situation, and possessing streams of running water, was purchased, and on a plateau in its center a site for the proposed house of refuge was fixed. The next movement was to decide upon a plan, which ultimately met the approval of the Governor. It favored the erection of one principal building, one house for a reading-room and hospital, two large mechanical shops and eight family houses. January 1, 1868, 244 HISTORY OF INDIANA. three family houses and work-shop were completed; in 1869 the main building, and one additional familj' house were added; but previous to this, in August, 1867, a Mr. Frank P. Ainsworth and liis wife were appointed by the Board, superintendent and matron respectively, and temporary quarters placed at their disposal. In 1869 they of course removed to the new building. This is 64 by 128 feet, and three stories high. In its basement are kitchen, laundry and vegetable cellar. The first floor is devoted to offices, visitors' room, house father and family dining-room and store- rooms. The general superintendent's private apartments, private oflices and five dormitories for officers occupy the second floor; while the third floor is given up to the assistant superintendent's apartment, library, chapel and hospital. The family houses are similar in style, forming rectangular build- ings 36 by 58 feet. The basement of each contains a furnace room, a store-room and a large wash-room, which is converted into a play-room during inclement weather. On the first floor of each of these buildings are two rooms for tiie house father and his family, and a school-room, which is also convertible into a sitting- room for the boys. On the third floor is a family dormitory, a clothes-room and a room for the " elder brother," who ranks next to the house father. And since the reception of the first boy, from Hendricks county, January 23, 1868, the house plan has proved equally convenient, even as the management has proved efficient. Other buildings have since been erected. PART II. HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY History of Miami County, CHAPTER I.« Geology — General Features — Soil and Boundary — Lime — • The Pillared Rocks. MIAMI COUNTY is situated in the Upper Silurian forma- tion. The weatherings of silico-calcareous rock (or mag- nesian Hmestone, as it may also be termed), have mingled with the Drift, which has reached this latitude, to form the soils of the county. The}' are also often charged with iron which has filtered, while held in solution b}' water, into many of the rock cavities, and been deposited there until again mingled with the soil. This union has given rise to a soil of varied character, but usually of sufHcient fertility to produce good crops. This county is traversed from east to west by the Wabash and Eel Rivers, and the Mississinewa passes across the south-eastern part. As a consequence a considerable part of the county is allu- vial, fertile and productive as such soils usually are. The highest seam exposed is a limestone equivalent to the rocky band at Delphi, in Carroll county. A light brown colored magnesian limestone, which, from false bedding, is often seen with strata dip- ping at every angle almost to a perpendicular. In fact this appar- ently disturbed condition is often referred to oscillations in the earth's crust instead of the true solution. This bed was formerly burned for lime at Duke's quarr\', adjoining Peru, but the kiln is not now in use. It is crowded with skeletonized fossils, \-et still retaining a sufficient modicum of animal matter to prevent the lime from so fuUv slackening in the short time usually allowed for that purpose h\ workmen. Hence, this lime is not suited for plasterers' use, unless the mortar is permitted to remain in damp vats several months before being spread upon the walls of houses. This is too slow a process for our fast age. Yet the Roman architect who built for ages, would onl\- use mortar which had been prepared a year or more before it would be needed by the artificer. The fo.s- sils contained were Crinoid stems, plates and heads, Pcii/aiucrus Recoim ■^'.Vdapti'cl for thin volume from tho State Gcolot^ical Keport for 1872, and from the "Geological onnoiuunce of Indiana," by Kicliard Owen, IHtiO. 248 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Kiiiohtii and Occidciilalis ( .''), Platyccras^ B 11 mast is, Barriciisis, Calymcuc Bliimcnbacltii var. A /a_<^arc/is/s and corals. Beds of this stone are generally local and of no great extent, but an outcrop, somewhat purer and ten or more feet in thickness, was formerly worked a mile to the north on the farm of E. H. Shirk, and appearances indicated that this stone could be found in all the intervening area. Similar beds of stone are well developed at John Trippier's, two miles east of Peru and south of the Wabash river; and at Wallick's mill, on the Peru & Indianapolis Railroad, con- taining the fossills mentioned as occurring at Dukes' quarry, \\'ith F'azvsites and Cyathophylloid corals, Ilalysltcs catcitulata and Brvozoa. At both of these localities lime is burned for exportation as well as local use. It is similar, if not equal, to Delphi lime, slakes perfectly, works "cool" bears transportation well, makes a stroncr and almost hydraulic cement, and deserves a more extended market. Below these beds of lime rock is found stone which I have called "silico magnesia limestone," adopting the name applied to it by R. Owen. A surface opening has been made at Dukes' quarry, in the northern part of Peru, and it is believed that although a tirst rate stone has not been produced yet because exposed to the action of drought and winters for man}' thousand years, but when mining operations shall have been extended to parts not exposed to atmo- spheric influences, the product will prove much more satisfactor}-. Lower beds of stone are found along the river. This is worked at Lyde's quarry, two and a half miles west of Peru, in the low bank and bottom of the river. It is distinctly laminated, or divided by partings containing pyrites and argiUaceous matter. Protected from the weather, this will serve for foundations; but on exposure the argo-pvrite decomposes, and breaks the rock into small shelly fragments. The stone quarried at Tracy's for founda- tions, although less argillaceous, ought not to be exposed to extreme changes of temperature and moisture. Near the mouth of the Mississinewa are extensive beds of rock suitable for build- ing, showing an outcrop of more than one mile. On the right bank is the brick residence and well-appointed farm of Godfroy, chief (and son of the distinguished leader) of the Miami Nation of Indians. Across the valley is the Osage village, once the residence of Chief Pecan, who was distinguished as statesman and warrior, and lived to the extreme age of one hundred years, universally respected. Many Miami Indians still live in this county, descend- ants from the princely line of chieftains who bravely led this once powerful Nation in its ineffectual struggle for supremacy. Ascending the Mississinewa to a point three miles east of Peru we tind the "Pillared Rocks," full of geological as well as roman- tic interest. Here the river flows directly to the north and GEOLOGY AND GENERAL FEATURES. 2^9 infrinnc-sia. His ancestors and dcscciidaiits. — No relia- ble account of the ancestors of Me-shin-go-me-sia can be traced fin-ther back than the fourth generation, or to the time of Osandiah, who, at the head of one division of the tribe, left Fort Wavne (at what date no one knows) and settled on the Big Miami River, in Ohio. Soon after his settlement at this point he visited Gen. Wash- ington, at that time President, who presented him with tokens of regard. This aroused the jealousy of the other tribes, b\' whom it is believed he was poisoned. Upon the death of Osondiah his son, Ataw-ataw, became chief, and he, in turn, was succeeded by his son, Me-to-cin-yah, who re- moved with his tribe to Indiana and settled in what is now Wabash and Grant Counties, and after a successful reign of many years died, and his remains were buried in Wabasli County. He was the father of ten children : Me shin-go-me-sia, Ta-con- saw, Mack-quack-yno-nun-gah, Shop-on-do-sheah, Wa-pe-si-taw, Me-tack-quack-cpiah, So-lin-jes-\ah, Wa-cau-con-aw, Po-kung-e- yali and We-coji-eme-nah. 256 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Upon the death of Me-to-cin-vah, his eldest son, Me-shin-go- me-sia, succeeded to the chieftaincy. He was born in Wabash County about the beginning of the last quarter of the eighteenth century ( the precise date not known). At the age of about thirty he married Tac-ka-quah, a daughter of So-a-nah-ke-kah, and to them were born two sons Po-kung-gah and Ataw-ataw. He was a man of great firmness, though not obstinate. He was ordinarily intelligent and always displayed judgment and good business sense in the management of the affairs of his band. His death occurred December — ,1879. The following sketch, as well as many other extracts, are taken from the Indian History of the county written by Hon. John A. Graham : F'raiicis Gocifrov — '-A great war-chief of the Miamis, called by the Indians, Pa-lons-wa, was the son of Jacques, or James Godfroy. a French trader among the Indians. He and his brother Louis were distinguished men in their tribe from early manhood, and took a leading part in its important affairs. They were prominent in the battles of Fort Wayne, Tippecanoe and the Mississinewa. Their high appreciation in the tribe is eyidenced by the fact that, in the treat}- of St. Mary's, in 1818, Francis was granted a reseryation of six sections of land on the . ... ... r^ Salamonie, at La Petit Prairie, and Louis six sections on the St. Mary's, aboye the reservation of Anthony Shaw. The affection of the brothers for each other is shown by an article of agree- ment, made on the 2nd of December, 1S24, witnessed by Gen. Tipton and Joseph Barron, in which thev agree to exchange one section of these reseryations, and bind themselves not to sell or otherwise dispose of the same, unless bv mutual consent — the sole object and purpose of the exchange being that -the broth- ers jnay live near each other.' •' Francis was a man of splendid physical development, being six feet high and weighing about three hundred pounds. He was genial, generous and dignified; sincere in his friendship, paternal in his rule, and princely in his hospitality. He was known and esteemed by the most distinguished men of his day, and among them those against whom he fought in battle. He was a prompt and liberal contributor on all public calls for money : was gracious and hospitable to white visitors, and. like one of the old barons, always kept about his ' Mount Pleasant' home a large retinue of his own people. "In the spring of 1840 he was taken sick, and, after a linger- ing illness, died on the first day of May of that year. A numerous concourse of white citizens, as well as his own people, manifested their respect for the chief bv attending his funeral, which took place at his own house, his grave being but a short distance EARLY TRIBES OF INDIANS. 257 from it on tlie rising ground to the south. Wap-pa-pin-sha, called also Black Raccoon, a chief and noted orator, delivered a funeral discourse on the occasion, from which the following extracts are taken: "Bkotheiis: Tlie (Jreat Spirit liiis tMlicii to liimself anothor of our oiuc jiower- ful and happy, Init now rapidly dccliniug- nation. Tlic time lias liocn wlii'n these forests were densely popnlated liy the red man; Imt the same hand, whose Mighting touch witliered tlu^ niajeslie frame before us, and eaused the nolile sjiirit liyVhieh it was animated to seek another liome, has dealt in a like mamier with liis and onr fatliers; in a like manner will it deal with us. Death, of late, lias been eomnion amonir us — .so much so that an occurrence of it scarcely elicits our notice. Ikit when the brave, the generous and the patriotic are blasted by it, then it is that the tears of sorrow freely How. "Such is now the c;ise; our brother, who just left us, was brave, generous and patriotic, and as a tribute to his merit, and a reward for goodness, the tears, not only of his own iicople, but of many white men, who are here assembled to witness the funeral rites, freely flow. "At this scene the poor of his people weep, because at his table they were wont to feast and rejoice. The weak mourn his death, because his authorit}' was directed to their protection. But he has left the earth, the place of ve.\ation and contention, and is now particii>ating with Pocahontas and Logan in those joys prepared by the Great Spirit for such as well and faithfully discharge their duties here. Brothers, let us emulate his example and practice his virtues." " From 1838 until their removal west, the Miamis grew reck- less and dissipated. Their dissipation led to frequent quarrels and homicides, so their number decreased rapidly in the live years preceding their removal. The following are some of the cases which attracted the special notice of the whites: Shoc- cot-wah, a half-brother of Ne-con-zah (Squirrel), was a bad Indian — quarrelsome and treacherous. Old Mother Tap-po, who had several daughters, and Ah-lin-de-ze-quah, who had two daughters and a son named Wa-ca-co-nah, lived in what is now the David Hohn farm, in Butler township. Their cabins were close together, and the Indians resorted there. At the time of the occurrence about to be related, several Weas, among ihem the brothers of Shap-pan-do-ce-ah and Qua-com-ah-cot-wah and Shoc-cot-wah, Ne-con-zah, Shoc-com-wah and Me-ze-quoh, of the Ne-con-zah, or Squirrel party of Miamis, were there drink- ing. They had spent the night in their carousal, in the course of which Shoc-cot-wah caught Mother Tap-po bv the hair and struck her in the face with his list, bruising it and causing the blood to flow freel)'. This made the old woman mad for revenge, and she told her daughters to load her pistol heavily for she was going to kill Shoc-cot-wah. They loaded the pistol and gave it to her. This was the ne.\t morning after the "night's deliauch, and the Indians were outside the house sitting and standing, and Shoc-cot-wah was in a half recumbent position resting on his elbow. The old woman came to him, pointing the pistol at him, and told him she was going to shoot him, but just as she was about to pull tiie trigger Wap-pa-pin-sha, who was gener- 258 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. ally called the Black Raccoon, a man of rank and distinction as an orator among the Indians, came arovnd the house, caught her hand and inquired what she was going to do. She told him how she had been abused, showed her bruised and bloody face, and said she was going to kill Shoc-cot-wah. Wap-pa- pin-sha took the pistol and told Shoc-cot-wah that he was a bad Indian, that he was no man, was a coward to abuse an old woman in that way, and that he must die. Shoc-cot-wah did not move from his position, and his antagonist, standing above, fired downward, the ball passing between the collar-bone and the throat. After being shot, Shoc-cot-wah, spitting blood, got up and walked toward Wap-pa-pin-sha, who had walked away from where Shoc-cot-wah had been l}ing. As Shoc-cot-wah passed the Indians they thought he wanted a weapon, and Shap- pan-do-ce-ah said to Wap-pa-pin-sha, who was paralyzed in one arm and unarmed, "He will kill you, take this," handing him a large Bowie knife. He took the knife, upon seeing which Shoc-cot-wah began to plead, saying to Wap-pa-pin-sha, 'Don't kill me mv friend; you have done enough; I am your friend.' To which Wap-pa-pin-sha answered, 'No, you are not my friend: vou are nobodv's friend; vou abuse the Indians, and you must die,' and he plunged the knife into Shoc-cot-wah's heart. He drew it out of the breast of Shoc-cot-wah, a stream of blood spouting from the wound, and, after wiping it on the grass, handed it back to Shap-pan-do-ce-ah. "The squirrel party, to which Shoc-cot-wah belonged, threat- ened revenge, and the whites, who thought substantial justice had been done bv Wap-pa-pin-sha, brought him to town and protected him from his enemies. "Another case, which was regarded by the whites in a dif- ferent light, and aroused their horror and indignation, was the killing, by Peashwa, a Pottawattomie, of two men and a woman of the Flowers or Wea part}'. He had lived at Wesaw Village and had two ^viyes of the FloAvers party. After the removal of the Weas from Eel River to the reserve, south of the Wabash, he and his wives and the two half-brothers of one of these women settled on Pipe Creek, near where the Strawtown road crosses the same. Their names were Ah-lah-loon-dah and Shap-pan-do-ce- ah. and were married and had houses at the same place. Shap- pan-do-ce-ah's wife was named Kil-so-quah, and Ah-lah-loon-dah's, Me-shoc-co-to-quah. These two Weas and their wives went on a hunt some six miles southwest of where they lived, on Little Deer Creek, and camped. The men went hunting and the women remained in camp. The pony of Me-shoc-co-to-quah got loose at the camp and started back toward home. She followed, and did not catch it until it had nearly reached there. When KARLY TRIBES OF INDIANS. 259' she returned near to the camp she approached it Indian-like, cautiously, and seeing Kil-so-quah sitting very quietly and in a curious position, her fears of something being wrong were aroused, and she crept quietly up to the camp. She found her sister-in-law, whom she had left but a few hours before well, sit- ting in a half reclining position, dead, with a wild turkey she had been picking, in her lap. She retreated in terror, got on her pony and went with all haste to the Wea Village, on Deer Creek, to give the alarm. A party at once started for the camp. They soon came upon the trail of the hunters in a swampy thicket. They followed it but a short distance when they found the body of one of the Indians, shot from behind through the back of the head, and his pon\' shot; following the trail still further, they found the other, shot through the body." "The Indians were furious and the whites turned out with them to hunt the murderer, but the search was fruitless. It was considered a cruel murder, and if Peashwa had been found,, the whites whould have seconded the Indians in takin"- sum- mary vengeance. "At his home, on Pipe Creek, he left two children, by a for- mer wife, a Pottawattomie woman. They were kept under strict sur\-eillance by the Weas, as hostages, and it was under- stood that if Peashwa was not caught they would be sacrificed. The boy was got away, and, like his father, found refuge at Ephriam Bearss'; but the girl remained, and shortlj' afterward disappeared, and the legend is — and it is believed by Pim-wy- oh-tem-ah, a Miami, now living in this neighborhood, to be true — that the old woman of the Flowers party kilUed the girl by the most cruel method of cutting her to pieces. This she, no doubt, regarded as a sacred duty, to avenge the killing of her own people by the child's father. "The date of the foregoing murders is not remembered exactly, but it is somewhere about 1S41 or 1S42." Among other cases of killing, the following ma^" be men- tioned: "Wah-puck-co-se-ah was killed by Win-gon-sah, in 1844. Shap-pan-do-ce-ah's wife, a Pottawattomie woman, killed Mah- qua-co-non-gah, in 1S45, at the Osage village. Pung-ah-shin-gah killed Man-ce-ah, or Muncie, as he was called by the whites, in 1845. Keel-oh-com-e-ke-ah, who died but a few years ago, at his home, near the Mississinewa — a peaceable, manly Indian, and remarkable for his great weight, some four hun- dred pounds — killed Shoc-co-com-wah, under almost ludicrous circumstances. They had been in town, drinking, and on their way home, somewhere near the old limekiln, on the road between Peru and the Mississinewa. Shoc-co-com-wah. 26o HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. who was quarrelsome, wanted to tight. Keel-oh-com-e-ke-ah said lie did not want to tight, was not mad, and had noth- ing to tight about. The other insisted, at least to tight white fashion, with their lists. So, to gratify his friend, Keel- oh-com-e-ke-ah consented, and thev got off their horses. Thev were both under the influence of liquor, and, before commencing, Shoc-co-com-wah took out his bottle, took a drink, and handed it to Keel-o-com-e-ke-ah, inviting him to drink. While the lat- ter had the bottle to his mouth, the other struck at him with a knife, cutting through his coat and inflicting a severe wound in his breast. Keel-o-com-e-ke-ah seized him by the throat, crushed him to the ground, held him there with one hand, while with the other he reached into his vest-pocket, got out a clasp dirk- knife, opened the blade with his teeth, and then struck it into the breast of his treacherous friend. He repeated his blows with the knife until he effectually cured the pugilistic Miami of all further disposition to tight white-man fashion. "Keel-o-com-e-ke-ah, for -sears before his death, had been falling awav in flesh, until, at the occurrence of that event, he did not weigh more than, perhaps, a hundred pounds. Once, years ago, when he was at his greatest weight, he was arrested in town for being drunk, and perhaps fifty men and boys were engaged in taking him before the mayor. His great strength enabled him to throw them off as though thev were children: but, about the time they got him to the office, he was exhausted, and gave up, exclaiming, 'oh, too many — can't.' The entrance to the Maj'or's othce was by an outside rickety stairs. The Ma3-or looked out of the window, and, seeing the elephantine proportions of the prisoner, dismissed the case for want of suf- ficient stairs." Frances Slociiiii — Earlv in the thirties, it was discov- ered by Gen. George W. Ewing, that the widow of one of the distinguished war-chiefs was a white woman, who had been captured bv the Delaware Indians when but a child of prob- ably six years. He learned from her, the name of her father and the further fact that the family lived on the Susquelianna in Penns^'lvania, and he accordingly addressed a letter to a gen- tleman in Pennsylvania requesting its publication, thinking it might thereby reach some of the relatives. The following is an ex- tract from the letter of Gen. Ewing: "There is now near this place among the Miami tribe of Indians, an aged white woman, who a few days ago, told me, whilst I lodged in the camp with her one night, that she was taken away from her father's home on or near the Susquehanna River, when she was very young, say from five to eight years old: she thinks, by the Delaware Indians who were then hostile to the whites. She savs her ^'t-S^ "k EARLY TRIBES OF INDIANS. 263 father's name was Slocum, that he was a Quaker, rather small in stature, and wore a large broad-rimmed hat; was of sandy hair, light complexion and much freckled; that he lived about half a mile from a town where there was a fort; that they lived in a wooden house two stories high, and had a spring near the house. She says three Delawares came to the house in the day time, when all were absent but herself and perhaps two other small children; her father and brothers were absent making hav. The Indians carried her off and she was adopted into a family of Delawares who raised her and treated her as their own child. They died about forty years ago in Ohio. She was then mar- ried to a Miami, by whom she had four children, two of whom are now living, both daughters, and she living with them. She is old and feeble and thinks she will not live long, and these considerations induced her to give the present histor}- of herself which she never would do before, fearing her kindred would come and force her away." The letter, after being given up by the writer as having failed of its purpose, was accidentally discovered, some two years after it was written, and published in a Lancaster, Pa., paper. The facts it narrated regarding the captive satisfied the Slocums that she was, be3'ond a doubt, their long lost relative, and thev at once opened a correspondence with Col. Ewing on the subject. The following letter will explain itself as a part of the present nar- rative. "WiLKESBAKRE, Pa., AugUSt 9, 18S7. "Geo. W. Ewing, Esq., "Dritr Sir: At the snrrgestion of my father and other relations I have taken the liberty to write toyo\i although an entire stranger. We have received but a few days since, a letter written b)' you to a gentleman in Lancaster, in this State, upon a sub- ject of deep and intense interest to our family. How the matter should have lain so long enwrapped in obscurity we cannot conceive. An aunt of mine, sister of my father, was taken away when five years old, by the Indians, and since then we have had only vasiue and indistinct rumors on the subject. Your letter we deem to have entirely revealed the wliole matter and set everything at rest. The description is so perfect and the incidents (with the exception of her age) so correct, we feel confi- dent. "Steps will be taken immediately to investigate the matter, and we will endeavor to do all in our power to restore a lost relative who has been sixty years in Indian bondage. * * * * * "Your friend and servsmt, "Ion J. SLocf-M." The narrative of the life of Frances Slocum, as given her- self to the interpreters who went with her relatives, as above related, is as follows: "One evening about dusk, in the year i777> while Frances and other children were at play, near her father's house, at Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, the hostile Delawares approached them, killed one boy and bore off another and herself prisoners. She was taken by two Delawares and by them transferred to 2 264 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Tuck-hos, a chief of that nation, whom she represented to be a man of great distinction. This chief after receiving his little prisoner, dressed her in the gavest manner, decorating her with wampum, beads and hne feathers, and treated her with great humanity. "Shortly after her captivity, the party left the Wyoming Valley, and went to Genesee Falls; from thence, after a transient stay, they preceded to the falls of Niagara, where they remained during Gen. Wayne's war, and were supplied with provisions and munitions of war by the British. The Chief, Tuck-hos, and his party, of whom Frances was one, remained at this place two winters, and during the time, she says, the Indians frequently went out and returned with many white men's scalps, being hos- tile at the time. From Niagara the party went to Sandusky, where they remained a short time and then returned to the falls, Some time after this, she states, the Indians made bark canoes, and several thousand of them went to Detroit, where they remained three ^ears; from thence they removed to Brownstown, w'here Frances lived for a time with a Delaware as his wife but had no issue by him. From Brownstown they proceeded to Fort Wayne, in this state, and remained there some years during the late war. While at Fort Wayne, the Indians suffered much from want of pro\isions and other neces- saries, and were for a time at the very point of starvation, hav- intr nothinij but wild meat whereon to subsist." "About forty-four years ago [this narrative was given in 1837] she was married to Deaf Man [She-pah-can-nah, war Chief of the Osage village] by whom she had four children, two sons and two daughters, and her husband has been dead about four years. From Fort Wayne, she, with her husband, came to the Osage Village, and Avent thence to the place known as Deaf Man's Village, where she resided when she first disclosed her history to Col. Ewing, and until she died. Thus ends the story of Frances Slocum's captivity and sub- sequent life, as published in the Peru Forester fort}- years ago. This now noted woman died on the 9th of March, 1847, aged seventA'-five years. Her Indian name, as given by her Indian relatives, was Mah-cones-quah, which means Young Bear. Her daughter, Ke-ke-na-kush-wa, wife of Capt. John B. Brouil- lette, died on the 13th of March, 1847, aged forty-seven years. The other daughter mentioned in the narrative, was, at the time of the visit of her white relatives, the wife of Tah-co-nah. Her name was O-zah-wah-shing-quah. She was afterward married to Wah-pa-pe-tah (Peter Bondy), and several children, now adults, are the offspring of this marriage. She died in January, 1877, — tlie last of the Children of Frances Slocum. EARLY TRIBES OF INDIANS. 265 In the Pa-u Forester, of September 26th, 1837, there is an editorial article which says: " A few evenings ago, Mr! Isaac Slocuin, a younger brother of Frances, arrived in town from Sanduskv Countv, Ohio, and, in company with James T. Miller, of this place, interpreter, pro- ceeded to the place of her residence known by the appellation of ' Deaf Man's V^illage,' about nine miles above Peru, on the Mississinewa River. " Mr. Slocum. on the wa}% remarked to his guide that if the woman (Frances) was really his sister, he would recognize her by a scar upon the forefinger of her left hand, caused by a blow from a hammer upon an anvil, while at play with her brother before she was taken captive, but he knew not in what other wa}' he should be able to convince either her or himself of the relationship which existed between them. " Mr. Miller proceeded to the house alone, in order to pre- pare the old lady for the reception of her brother, but found her unwilling to believe that such a thing could be. The brother then entered the house, and, gazing upon the changed appear- ance of Frances, involuntarily exclaimed. 'Good God! is this my sister?' Then, grasping her hand, he drew her toward the light and beheld the scar! the identical scar which he had described. He was then satisfied; but Frances was still unwilling to believe Mr. Slocum her brother. Mr. Miller, at the request of Mr. Slocum, interrogated her in the Indian language (as she speaks or understands no other) concerning the scar upon her hnger, and she related the same story which her brother had told him on the way; and finally, before they separated, Frances was satisfied to acknowledge Isaac to be her own brother, but expressed no inclination to leave her wigwam to partake of the comforts of his hospitable mansion, after a residence of near sixty years among the red men of the wilderness. Mr. Slocum states that his brother Joseph and sister, Mrs. Mary Town, will be here in a few dajs and that he will await their arrival." The parties referred to arrived in due time, and the follow- ing letter, written from -here to their relatives in Pennsylvania, and published in the Wyoming Republican, will give the further historv of Frances: Extract from a letter dated Peru, Miami Count\-, Indiana, September 27th, 1S37: '•We arrived here on the 21st inst. The town is new and flourishing; situated on the north side of the Wabash, a little below tlie mouth of the Mississinewa, which empties in from the south. The last twenty-five miles was through the Miami Reserve, without any white inhabitants. We found Isaac Slo- cum here awaiting our arrival. He had visited the woman in 266 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. the Reserve, mentioned in the letter of Mr. Ewing, and is per- fectly satisfied that she is the sister taken captive in 1778. The next day we repaired to the village with Mr. Miller, the inter- preter, together with Mr. Hunt, a half-breed that was educated at Col. Johnson's school, in Kentuckv, and another gentleman. Fording the Wabash at this place, we passed up the river to the Mississinewa, and in about five miles came to an Indian town, surrounded with blue grass pasturage and corn fields intermixed without order. Some of the natives were about their houses; others were at tents pitched in corn fields, gather- ing corn, their ponies standing saddled near the tents. When- ever they have any work to do at ever so short a distance from their houses, they pitch a tent, and cook and live there until the work is done, a few only returning to their houses at night. We soon after came to the seat of Godfroy, the second war chief of the Miamis, consisting of five or six two-story houses, within an inclosure of perhaps half an acre, which we entered through a gate wide enough for a carriage to pass. Upon entering the house we were all introduced to the Chief by Mr. Miller, who told him our business in the nation. He received us very courteously, and proffered us all the assistance in his power. He is probably over 50 vears of age, of portly and majestic appearance, being more than six feet high, well proportioned and weighing about 320 pounds. He was dressed in leggings and a blue calico shirt that came down to the knee, profusely ornamented with ruffles of the same, his hair nearly half gray and tied in a queue hanging elegantly down his back. After taking leave of the Chief, we proceeded to Deaf Man's Village, the residence of the captive woman, a distance of about four miles further up the Mississinewa, where the natives were employed in the same way as before described. At one of which we found the husband of the youngest daughter of the captive woman. He mounted his pon}- and went with us to the \illage. where we were introduced to the captive, her two daughters, and Capt. Brouillette, the husband of the elder. The girls are aged, one thirty-three and -the other twenty-three. The youngest has three small children, but not bv this husband. The elder had two, but both are dead. Capt. Brouillette is a half-French breed Indian, of elegant appearance, very straight and slim, and about six feet high. Uncle Joseph at once recognized his sister, and, after conversing with them some time, in the course of which we endeavored, by all means in our power, to gain their contidence, it was proposed to them to accompany us to Peru to see Mrs. Town. Mr. Miller had to give the old lady very strong assurances that we had no intention to take her away contrary to her inclination before she would go; but MISSISSINEWA EXPEDITION. 267 at length she consented, and, accompanied by her two daughters and llieir husbands, she returned with us to town, where they were introduced to Mrs. Town, who recoixnized her Ion"' lost sister. They then joined us at the supper table and appeared to bt perfectl)' at ease. They liad now become perfectly satis- fied that we were their relations, and their confidence was so much strenghtened that she felt justified in proffering us their friendship. This was done by one of them placing on the stand something wrapped in a white cloth, after which thev spoke with the interpreter in a solemn manner, when he rose up and said the\' were our friends, and by way of acknowledg- themselves as such, the}' presented us with a piece of fresh venison, which they wished us to receive as a token of friend- ship, as that was their manner of confirming their friendship. We then arose and thanked them and received the token, Mrs. Town taking up the ham of venison and removing the cloth, which made them satisfied. The next morning they all came to breakfast with us, and the captive gave us, in the course of the dav, all the historv of her life which she could recollect. Mr. Miller, to whom we are greatly indebted, and Mr. Hunt acted as interpreters. I wrote down the narration in the words of the interpreter. There are not manv striking incidents in her life, but she and her familv, in their native costume, their extreme simplicitv of manner, the natural modesty and solemnit}- of their deportment, formed the most interesting group I ever beheld. They are decidedly the most respectable family in the nation, and they are also very " wealthy, having upward of a hundred horses, and man\- cattle and hogs. Capt. Brouillette is the only Indian who cultivates corn with the plow. He has a yoke of oxen, and wagon, and frequently takes beef and other articles to market." Jlississinezva Exfedition. — In a letter addressed to the Secretary of War bearing date of October 13, 181 2, Gen- eral Harrison called the attention of the War Department to the fact that the Miamis had taken up the tomahawk and were com- mitting depredations upon the settlements along the frontier, citing such eviilence as the besieging of Fort Wayne and the attack on Fort Harrison. Notwithstanding these unfriendly movements the\- were still claiming to maintain a neutral posi- tion in the war between the United States and Great Britain. It was soon determined that a force should be sent against those living along the banks of the Mississinewa for the purpose of destro\ing their villages. This duty was assigned to Lieut. Col. John B. Campbell of the Ninteenth Regiment of United States Infantry, with a detachment of six hundred mounted men. The •detachment was composed mainK- of a regiment of Kentucky 268 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. dragoons under command of Col. Simrall, a squadron of United States Volunteer Dragoons, under Maj. James V. Ball and a corps of Infantrv, consisting of Capt. Elliott's company of the 19th. U. S. Regiment, Butler's Pittsburgh Blues and Alexander's Pennsylvania Riflemen. The detachment was commanded to march on the 25th of November, and in his letter of instructions to Col. Campbell General Harrison commanded him to march by the "Greenville route" in order that he might not come in contact with the Delaware towns, and suggested that any trouble with them would be unfortunate, for the reason that the Gov- ernment was pledged for their safet}-. He further stated that some of the Miami Chiefs had exerted themselves to keep their warriors quiet. He named among others Richardville, Silver Heels, White Loon and the son and brother of Little Turtle, and asked that thev be left unmolested. Well-knowing the methods of Indian warfare he advised Col. Campbell to keep his men at all times ready for action by night as well as b}- day, and when in the enemy's country to have his men lie' upon their arms. The expedition did not reach the villages on the Mississin- ewa until the morning of December 17, and a full description of what followed will be found in the following official report of Col. Campbell to General Harrison, which is now on file in the War Department at Washington: "Early in the morning of the 17th, I reached, undiscovered an Indian town on the Mississinewa, inhabited by a number of Delawares and Miamis. The troops rushed into the town, killed eight warriors and took forty-two prisoners eight of whom are warriors, the residue women and children. I ordered the town to be immediatelv burned, a house or two excepted, in which I confined the prisoners. I then left the infantry to guard the prisoners, and with Simrall's and Ball's Dragoons advanced to some Miami villages a few miles down the Mississinewa, but found them evacuated. I burned on this occasion three considerable villages, took several horses, killed manv cattle and returned to the town I tirst burned, where I had left the prisoners, and encamped. Mv camp was in the usual form. The infantrv and riflemen were in the front line, Captain Elliott's companv on the right. Butler's in the center, Alexander's on the left: Major Ball's squadron occupied the right and one-half of the rear line. Col. Simrall's regiment the left, on the other half of the rear line. Between Balls right and Sim- rall's left there was an interval which had not been filled uji. I now began to deliberate upon our future movements whether to go on further encumbered with prisoners the men much fatigued and many frost-bitten, and horses suffering for want of forage. At 4 o'clock on the morning of the iSth, I ordered the MISSISSINEWA EXPEDITION. 269 reveille to be beaten and the officers convened at my lire a short time afterward. While we were in council and about half an hour before dav, my camp was most furiously attacked b\- a large party of Indians, preceded by and accompanied with a most hideous yell. This immediately broke up the council and every man ran to his post. "The attack commenced upon that angle of the camp formed Ijv the left of Capt. Hopkins' troops and on the right by Capt. Garrard's, but in a few seconds became general from the entrance of the right to the left of Ball's squadron. The enem}' boldly advanced to within a few yards of the line and seemed determined to rush in. The guards posted at the differ- ent redoubts retreated to camp and dispersed among their differ- ent companies, thus leaving me without a disposable force. Capt. Smith, of the Kentucky Light Dragoons, who commanded one of the redoubts, in a handsome and militarv manner kept his position, although abandoned bv half his guards, until ordered to fill up the interval in the rear line, between the regiment and squadron. " The redoubt at which Capt. Pierce commanded was first attacked. The Captain maintained his position until it was too late to get within the line. He received two balls through the body and was tomahawked. He died bravely and much lamented. The enem\- then took possession of Capt. Pierce's redoubt and poured a tremendous fire upon the angle, to the right and left of which were posted Hopkins' and Garrard's troops, but the tire was as warmly returned. Not an inch of ground was yielded. E\ery man, officer and soldier, stood firm and animated and encovu-aged each other. The enemy's fire became wariu on the left, at which Capt. Markle's troops were posted; and the right of Elliott's company, which, with Markle's, formed an angle of the camp, was severeh' annoyed b}' the enemy's fire. " I had assisted in forming the infantry composed of Elliott's company of the 19th U. S. Regiment, Butler's Pittsburg Blues, and Alexander's Pennsylvania Riflemen, and ordered them to advance to the brink of a declivity from which they could more effectually defend themselves and harrass the enemy should they attempt an attack on that line. While I was thus engaged Maj. I3all rode up to me and observed that he was hard pressed and must be relieved. I gallo]5ed immediately to the left wing with the intention of ordering Capt. Trotter's troops to reinforce the squadron, but was there informed that the enemy was approaching in that direction, and believing it improper, on second thought, to detach a large troop from that line, which also covered an angle of the camp, I determined to give relief from the infan- 270 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. try. I wheeled ni}' horse and met Maj. McDowell, who observed that the spies and guards under Capt. Patterson Bain, consisting of ten men were unemployed. We rode to them together and ordered Capt. Bain to the support of the squadron. Seven of them, to-wit: James Adrian, William Conner, Silas McCullough, James Thompson, James Noggs, John Ruland and Joseph G. McClelland, followed their bra\e leader and rendered most effectual assistance. I then ordered Capt Butler, _ with the Pittsburg Blues, to repair immediately to reinforce the squadron, and Capts. Elliott and Alexander to extend to the right and left and till up the interval occasioned by the withdrawal of the Blues. Capt Butler in a most gallant manner, and highly worth}- the name he bears, formed his men immediately and in excel- lent order, and marched them to the point to which he was ordered. The alacrity with which he formed and moved was never exceeded by any troops on earth. The Blues were scarcely at the post assigned them before I discovered the effect thev produced. A well directed fire from them and Hopkins' Dragoons nearly routed the enemy in that quarter. The enemj^ then moved in force to the left of the squadron and right of the infantr}', where Capts. Markle and Elliott's companies were posted. Here again they were warmly received. At this time daylight began to dawn. I then ordered Capt. Trotter, whose troops had been ordered by Col. Simrall to mount for that pur- pose, to make a charge. The Captain called to his troops to follow him and they tilted off at full gallop. * * * Major McDowell, with a small party, rushed into the midst of the enemy and exposed himself very much. I cannot sav too much for this gallant veteran. Capt. Markle, with about fifteen of his troops, and Lieut. Warren also made a daring charge on the enemy. Capt. Markle avenged the death of his relative, Lieut. Waltz, upon an Indian with his own sword. * * * Fearing that Capt. Trotter might be too hard pressed, I ordered Capt. Johnson, of the Kentucky Light Dragoons, to advance with his troops to support them. Capt. Johnson did not join Trotter until the enem}- was out of reach. The cavalry returned and informed me that the enemy had fled precipitately. I have on this occasion to lament the loss of several brave men." The battle lasted about one hour and resulted in a loss to the whites of eight killed and forty-two wounded. The number of horses killed, was, according to one of the colonels, 107. Fifteen Indians were found dead upon the battle field, and it was estimated bv Col. Campbell that as many more had been carried away dead or mortalh- wounded. The Indian force was estimated at 300. The account of this battle is given for the reason that a MISSISSINEWA EXPEDITION. 271 large number of the Indians engaged were from Miami County. The scene of the conflict was in Grant County, at a command- ing point on tlie Mississinevva River. It is probable that more than half the number were from Miami County, and the occurrence was long an interesting topic to those that lingered here after the whites had become firmly located. The accompan3'ing dia- gram of the battle ground is given as an interesting feature. DIAGRAM REPRESENTING THE PLAN OF ENCAMPMENT AND THE BATTLE OF MISSISSINEWA, ON THE JIOHNING OF DEC. 18tii, 181-3. D j_^ C»pl. Hopki c nilcd by Capt. Smith's Co. L" «i I'Jlli. U.S. Fittiiljur^ Infantry Blues FfiONT LINE oOO FEET o. .\JIKRIC.\N FORCE ENGAGED, GOO MEN; LOSS, 8 KH^LED, 42 WOUNDED; 107 HORSES KILLED. INDIAN LOSS NOT KNOWN. FIFTEEN DEAD WARRI0K8 FOUND ON THE BATTLE FIELD. 272 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. CHAPTER III. County Organization — Acts of the Legislature — Proceed- ings OF the County Board — Public Buildings — Creation OF Townships — County Finances — Expenses of the Poor — Wabash and Erie Canal — Rail Roads — Gravel Roads — Medical and Agricultural Societies — Elections — County Officers. MIAMI COUNTY became a distinct political organization on the 1st day of March, 1S34. It occupies an area of 384 square miles or 245.760 acres. The surface is level or undulating, e.xcept along the course of the Wabash and its tribu- taries, the banks of which are fringed by ranges of hills prob- ably not exceeding an average altitude of one hundred feet. The countv was iriven the name of the tribe of Indians that had for so many years owned and occupied the territory. The several acts of the General Assembly establishing the new count}- and fixing its boundaries are as follows: Ak Act Establishixg the County of Miami. Aim'hoved February 2, 1832. Be it Eimeted hy the General .Usemhli/ (if the Stiite nf fniiinnn, That from .ind after the first Monda)' in April next, all the territory imluded within the foUowing^ bounds to- wit: Beginuins at the northwest corner of Section .5, Township 29, of Ranjre 5, being the northwest corner of Wabash county: thence south with the west- em boundary line of said county twenty-four miles to the north-west corner of Grant County: thence south six miles;" thence west to a point due sontli of range line divid- ing townships three and four, east of second |)rincipal meridian line: thence north from said range line to a jjoint due west from the place of beginning: thence east to the place of begiiming: shall form and constitute a county to be known and desig- nated by the name of the County of Miami. A Subsequent Act. Api'koved .Jakuauv 30, 1833. Be it further enacted by tlie General Assembly, That the boundaries of the County of Miami, as described in the act referred to in the foregoing, be and they are hereby changed as follows: Beginning at the north-east corner of Section 3, Township 2'j north, being the north-west corner of Wabash County, running thence south with the western boundary of said county twenty-four miles: thence from the south-west corner of the County Wabash, east four miles to the north-west west corner of Grant County: tlience soulli six ndles; thence west fourteen miles: thence north with the range line dividing ranges tliree and four east of the second princi- pal meridian thirty niiles: thence east ten miles on the township line dividing town- ships twent) -nine and thirty, to the place of beginning. Subsequent Act. Appkovkd, .January 2, 1834. Section 1. /?c it Enacted Jii/ the Genera! Axxeinhli/ nf the Stale of Indianti, That from and after tlie first day of' March, next, tlie County of Miami sliall enjoy the rights and jurisdiction which to separate and independent counties do or may prop- erly belong. Sec. 2. That Daniel Harrow, of the County of Putnam, Smallwood Xoel.of the County of Allen, .Joseph Tatman, of the County of Tippecanoe, and Harry Chase and John Baer, of the County of Carroll, be and are hereby aiipointed Commissioners for the purpose of fixing the permanent seat of justice of said County of Miami, agree- COUNTY ORGANIZATION. 273 ably to the provisions of an act to pstablisli tlie seats of justice in new counties. The coiumissioneis or a majority of them shall convene at the house of Benj. Scott iu said county, on the tirst day of June noxt or soon thereafter as a majority shall agree. Sec. 4 The circuit and other courts of said county shall be held at the house of Benj. H. Scott, or at any other jilace in said County to which said court nuiy adjourn until suitable acconiuiodafious can be had at the seat of justice thereof, alter which the court shall be held at the county seat. Skc. .5. The ajrent who shall be appointed to superintend the sale of lots at the county scat of said Miami County, shall reserve ten per centum out of the proceeds thereof, and also ten per centmn out of all donations to said county, and pay the same over to .such person or persons as may be lawfully ajijiointed to receive the same, for the use of a county library for said county. Sec. 6. The Hoard doins;- count}' Imsiness, when elected and qualified, may hold special sessions not exceeding three during the first year after the organization of said county, and shall appoint a lister and make out all necessary appointments, and do and perform all other uei'essarv Imsiness wluch might have been necessary to- be performed at auy other regubn- session, and take all necessary steps to collect the State and County revenue. Sec. 7. The territory included in the following, boundary to-wit: Beginning at the soutlnvest corner of the County of Miami, running thence west two miles; thence north with the section lines, thirty (3U) miles to the uortli-east of Section 3, iu Town- ship '2S), Hangf' o: thence east two miles on the line dividing Townshii)s 2!) and 30, to the north-west corner of the County of Miami (being a jjortion of the territory now belonging to the County of Cassj, shall be and is hereby attached to the Coimty of .Miami, and sh.-dl hereafter constitute and form a part and portion of the territory of the said County of Miami. Sec. 8. The territory shall be attached to the eighth judicial circuit of this State for judicial purposes, and to the Count}' of Cass for representative purjioses. First term of commissioners court held in Miami County was at the house of John McGregor in Miamisport, on Wednes- day the 3rd day . of June, 1834. '^^'^ members of the board, Alexander Jamison, John Miller and John Cruidson were for- mally qualified by the Sheriff, after which they appointed Ben- jamin H. Scott clerk pro-tem. The tirst business of the board was the appointment of Wm. M. Revburn, County Agent, and Abner 0\erman, Count\' Treasurer. Petitions were then read praying the honorable board to grant a license to Nathan Mc- Guire and William Thompson to vend foreign merchandise at Miamisport. After some deliberation the prayer of the petition was granted, and the rate for such license fixed at $12.50. The second day's session was held at the house of Benjamin H. Scott. The principal business was the division of the county into two townships, viz: Peru and Jefferson with boundaries as else- where described. An election for a Justice of the Peace of the township was ordered held in the former at the house of on Saturday, the 21st day of June, and in the latter at the house of Widow Wilkinson on the same day. The board then appointed William Bain inspector of election, and John Plaster, Constable for Jefferson Township, and William Coats inspector of elections and James Pett}-, Constable for Peru Township. 274 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. The first monev paid into the treasury was $25, for a license to vend merchandise at Miamisport and the first allowance made by the board was two dollars per day each for their services as Commissioners. Lewis Drouillard was assessed $5- ^^r the privilege of operating a ferry on the Wabash River opposite his store (wherever that may have been), for which the follow- ing rate was fixed: Each person, 6% cts., man and horse 25 cts. each wagon, 50 cts. each horse or ox attached to wagon, 12 }4 Cts. Each hog or sheep, 3 cts., all children under twelve years of age attached to the family to pass free of charge. The first country road was surveyed and laid out September, 1834 and was described as beginning at a stake at the foot of a hill near an old elm tree in section 20, Township 27, range 4. and run- ning to the town of Mexico. This was deemed by the viewers to be of public utilit}- and therefore declared a public highway. At a special meeting held June 19th the first Grand and Petit Juries were selected and was composed of the following citizens: Grand Jur}- — Zephaniah Wade, George W. Holman, Jacob Linsee, Abner Overman, William Coats, John Hoover, Joseph Clvmer, Aaron Rhenberger, Ira Evans, John Plaster, John M. Jackson and William N. Hood. Petit Jur}- — George Townsend. John Wiseman, J. T. Liston, Wm. M. Reyburn, Robert Wade, Richard Rausford, Isaac Marquiss, Isaac Stewart, John Ray. Wm. Wilkerson, John Smith, Joseph C. Taylor, Wm. Can- non, Stewart Forgy, "Alexander Jameson, Joseph B. Campbell, Walter D. Nesbit, Ratliff Wilkerson, John Saunders, Nathaniel McGuire and Jesse Wilkerson. The commissioners appointed bv the Legislature for the purpose of fixing the permanent seat of justice met at the house of Benjamin H. Sett, in Miamisport, sometime during the sum- mer of 1834. ^o report of their proceedings was recorded and if filed was doubtless destroyed by the fire in 1843. It is known however, that in consideration of the donation of ground for a public square and the erection of a court house and jail by the proprietor, the county seat was located at its present site. The court house was not completed until 1843 and court was held in consequence at private residences and in the Presby- terian Church. In June of the same year William Reyburn was appointed County Agent. The principal duty of said officer was to superintend the sale of lots, receive donation money and dispose of funds as directed by board of commissioners. The school commissioner, road commissioner, tax collector and surplus reve- nue agent were offices that have long since been disposed of. In the spring of 1835 the ofilces were removed to Peru. A tax of three-fourths of one per centum was levied on each COUNTY ORGANIZATION. 275 town lot in Miami County, eighty cents on c\ery Imndred acres of first rate land, sixty cents on every hundred acres of second rate land, and forty cents on every hundred acres of third rate land: polls, lifly cents: work oxen, per pair, fifty cents: pleasure carriages, fifty cents; watches, fifty cents. Public Buildings. — At the March term of Commissioner's Court 1835, it was ordered that a county jail he built on the northeast corner of the public square, and a court house in the center of said square. Plans and specifications were accordingly adopted for the erection of a court house. The plans provided for a brick building forty feet square, and two stories high with a stone foundation. The building was substantially built, con- veniently arranged, and, at that time was considered a very credible structure. The house was built by the proprietors of the town of Peru. Samuel McClure was the contractor in con- sideration of the location of the county seat at its present site, and it was accepted by the Commissioners in 1843. The house had been used but a short time when it was, with all the records, entirely destroyed b}' fire on the night of March 16, Second Building. — April the 7th, 1843, it was ordered by the Board that a fire proof building be erected for the county offices and the safe keeping of the records. In furtherance of such orders, Samuel Glass and James UeFrees were appointed to advertise and recieve bids for the construction of said build- ing according to the following specifications: To be 16x45 feet, built of brick with stone foundation, and, when completed, to be divided into three rooms of suitable dimensions for an auditor's office, a clerk's ofTice and a treasurer's office. The contract was purchased by George W. Goodrich for the sum of $769.00, to be paid in two equal installments, the first to become due on the first of June, -1844, and the second in one year after that date. In June 1848, the Commissioners contracted with George Goodrich for the erection of a recorder's office, dimensions 16x20 feet. The site of said building was near the clerk's office, in the public square. The first jail was a small log building erected by Matthew Fenimore on the northeast corner of the public square, and, although built of logs and containing no iron cells, it was sufficiently substantial to retain the prisoners, who at that time, were uneducated in crime. This old building answered the purpose of the county until 1852 when it was destroyed by fire. The present building was completed September 1858. Nathan Crawford, of Hancock County, was the contractor. The contract was purchased for $29,600, but owing to a few changes in the original plans and 276 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. specifications the cost was somewhat in excess of the con- tract price. The building is 60x80 feet, four stories high, includ- ing the basement, and is of the " Norman Castle" style of archi- tecture. The basement is used for a jail: on the first floor are the Clerk, Recorder, Treasurer and Auditor's offices. Each of these offices is provided with a fire-proof vault in which the records and papers are kept. On the second floor is the court room; the third floor is unoccupied. Organization of Tozvnsliips. — During the first term of Commis- sioners Court, which was held at Miamisport, June 1834, '^^ County was divided into two townships by commencing at the east line of the county and running on the line dividing Sections 22 and 15 to the west line of the county, the township north of said line to be known and designated as Jefferson township, the one south to be known and designated by the name of Peru township. Perry Tozvns/iip. — Beginning at the southeast corner of Section 34, Township 29, north Range 5 east: thence west west to the county line; thence north to the northwest corner of said county; thence east to the place of beginning. Union Toivnshif was organized November 7, 1837, with the following boundaries: Beginning at the northwest corner of Section 4, Township 29, Range 4 east; thence west five miles to the northwest corner of the county; thence south nine miles to the southwest corner of Section 14, Township 28, Range 3 east; thence si.x miles to the southeast corner of Section 15 of the same township; thence north three miles to the northeast corner of Section 3, TowUvship 28, Range 4 east; thence west one mile to the northwest corner of Section last named: thence north six miles to place of beginning. Richland Tozunsfiip, organized November 7, 1837, with the following boundary: Commencing at the northeast corner Sec- tion 3, in Township 28, Range 5 east: thence west six miles to the northwest corner of Section 2, Township iS, Range 4 east; thence south si.x miles to the southwest corner of Section 35, Township 28, Range 4; thence east si.x miles to southeast corner of Section 34, Township 28, Range 5 east: thence north on the county line to the place of beginning. ycfferso)i Tozcns/iif, re-organized and with the following boundary: Commencing at the northeast corner of Section 22, Township 28, Range 4 east; thence west to the northwest cor- ner of Section 23, Township 28, Range 3 east; thence south on the county line to the center of Section 14, Township 27, Range 3 east; thence west six miles to the line di^■iding Sections 14 and 15 of Township 27, Range 4 east: thence north on the section line to the place of beginning. Ordered. That on and after this date all the territory lyinii TOWNSIIII' ORCANIZATION. 277 east of Jefferson and south of Richland Townships, included in the following boundary, be attached to and form a part of Peru TtKciis/iip: Commencing at the northeast corner of Section 3, Township 27, Range 5 east; thence west to the northwest cor- ner of Section 2, Township 27, Range 4 east; thence south on the line of Sections 2 and 3 two miles and a half to the county line; thence on said line north to the place of beginning. Blnck Havjh and Eric Tozviis/iips. — On a petition of the inhabit- ants of the eastern porton of Peru Township, the following described territory was organized into the first named township: All that portion of the territor}' of Peru Township lying east of the recently established Range line and entireh' east of the Wabash County line, form and constitute said new township. Two years later, September 1847, the name of said Black Hawk Township, was changed to that of Erie. Lake Tozvns/iip. — The following described territory was organized into the above named township, June *], 1842, Com- mencing at the northeast corner of Miami County in Section 22; thence west with said Section line and the northern boun- dar\' of the county, to the northwest corner of said county of Miami on Section 19; thence south with the Section line, and western boundary of this portion of said county, to the south- west corner of Section 31; thence east with the Section line between Townships 29 and 30 Range 5 to the center of Section five on said line; thence south through said Section 5. Town- ships 29 and 30, Range 5 ^'^ t^h^ center of Section five on said line; thence south through said Section 5, Township 29, Range 5, to the Hne between said Section 5 and 8, Township 29, Range 5, thence east with the Section line to southeast corner of Sec- tion 3, thence north with the eastern boundary of the County of Miami to the place of beginning. VVashi)igto)i Tozjiiship was organized and laid out June 6, 1843, and bounded as follows, to-wit, : Commencing at the northeast corner of Township 26, Range 4, east, thence west on said north Hne of Township 26, until it intersects the Godfrey Reserve No. 7; thence south with said reserve to the southeast corner thereof; thence west along the southern line of said reserve to the Godfro)- Reserve No 8; thence south to the southeast corner of said reserve; thence west on the south line of said reserve to the Northwest corner of Section 4, Township 26, Range 4, thence south on the section line to Indian boundary; thence east to the southwest corner of Butler Township, thence north on the west line of said Butler Township and the range line to the place of beginning. It was further ordered that the boundary line of Butler, Washington and Pipe Creek Townships be extended to the 278 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. southern line of the county and have jurisdiction over said ter- ritorv for township purposes. About the same date the Wabash River was made the northern boundary of Butler Township. Deer Creek Toivmhip was organized September i, 1845 and bounded as follows: Commencing at the northwest corner of Section 2, Township 25. Range 3: thence east to the northeast corner of Section 5, Township 25, Range 4; thence south to the southern boundary of Miami County: tlience west to the south- west corner of said countv: thence north to the place of begin- ning. yacksoii Tozviis/iip was organized September 2, 1845 and bounded as follows: Commencing at the northwest corner of Section 2, Township 25, Range 5; Thence east to the northeast corner of section 5, Township 25, Range 6: thence south to the southeast corner of the county; west to the southwest corner of section 35, Township 25, Range 5: thence north to the place of beginning. Clay Township was organized March 3, 1846, as follows: Beginning at the northwest corner of Section 4, Township 25, Range 4, it being the northeast corner of Deer Creek Town- ship; thence east with the Congressional, to the northeast corner of Section i, Township 25, Range 4; thence south with the Range line dividing Ranges 4 and 5 east to corner of said Congression- al Township, on the south line of Miami County; thence west with the county line to the southeast corner of Deer Creek Township, at the southwest corner of Section 33, Township 25, Range 4; thence east to the place of beginning. harrhon Towiisliip was organized September 8, 1846, and is bounded as follows: Beirinninfr at the southeast corner of Section 3, Tow^nship 25, Range 5; thence west to the range line dividing ranges 4 and 5, at the northwest corner of Section 6: thence south on said range line to the southern boundarv of Miami County, at the southwest corner of section 31, Township 25, Range 5: thence east with the southern boundarv aforesaid, to the southeast corner of section 34, Township and range afore- said, thence north to the place of beginning. Ordered, that Sections 3, 10 and 15. Township 28 north, Range 4 east, be detached from Union Township and be attached to and form a part of Richland Township. Butler Tozi'iisliip was organized September the ist, 1841, and bounded as follows: Commencing at a point w'here a north line of Township 26. north Range 5 east intersects the line between Miami and Wabash Counties: thence west on the line of Townships 26 and 27 to the northwest corner of Township 26, Range 5 ; thence south with said Township line to the south- \ /u y^L TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION. 28 1 west corner of said Township 26, Range 5; thence east with the south line of said Township to the boundary line between Miami and Wabash Counties; thence north with said boundary line to the place of beginning, being all of said Township 26, Range 5, which lies in Miami County. Allen Tozvuship was organized September 6th,' 1859, '^"^ bounded as follows: Beginning at the half-mile on the west side of Section 26, Township 29, Range 3; thence north on the line dividing the Counties of Miami and Cass and Fulton to the line dividing Townships 29 and 30 to the northwest corner of Section 2, Township 29, Range 3; thence east with the line dividing the Counties of Miami and Fulton to the present line dividing the Townships of Union and Perry to the northeast corner of Section 4, Township 29, Range 4; thence south with the line dividing the said Townships of Union and Perrv to a center point on the east line of Section 28, Township 29, Range 4; thence west with the line dividing Sections 29 and 30, Township 29, Range 4, and Sections 25 and 26 Township 29, Range 3, to the place of beginning. And it is further ordered that the said Township of Union, from which said Township of Allen is taken, retain its original name — Union — and that the original lines now bounding it continue to be its boundary, except that the above line separating the Townships of Allen and Union shall be the north boundary of the Township of Union. The following are the receipts and expenditures of the county for each fiscal year since 1843: Date. Receipts. Expenditures. 1843 $4,428 00 |1,780 80 1844 4,()(i2 34 5,8,56 24 1845 5,067 84 6,517 20 1846 .5,962 48 7,275 75 1847 7,712 05 7,.562 96 1848 8,748 27 7,173 27 1849 7,682 50 8,824 17 1850 10,719 78 10,906 78 1851 11.249 83 8,444 14 1852 16,855 49 11.826 35 1853 18,280 51 15,305 21 1854 21,349 03 16.740 20 1855 26,883 40 21,256 05 18.56 30,792 30 27,690 13 1857 31,,550 16 28,366 08 1858 32,842 87 25,976.52 18.59 42,879 91 36,211 46 I860 37,005 76 3(1.139 41 1861 35,475 86 33,659 41 1862 33,494 97 30,148 .59 1863 36,965 29 39,124 24 1864 56,329 .59 46,329 59 1865 83,512 38 63,110 21 1866 1,5.S..506 66 110.99!i 45 1867 130,325 76 1' 4,309 20 8 282 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Date. Receipts. Expenditures. 1868 116,194 73 101,052 87 1869 105,347 47 101,476 94 1S70 87.862 15 8:S.669 .59 1«71 78,131 40 72,754 46 1872 93,317 64 78,6.50 04 1873 100,641 12 81,612 06 1874 •. 106,815 67 86,278 96 1875 109,864 39 88,500 85 1876 117,827 55 110,510 53 1877 73,0.58 77 ,58.076 85 1878 86,776 00 83,691 23 1879 72,93^ 84 55,806 30 1880 105,723 12 96,581 83 1881 89,049 43 74.505 37 1882 222,.5.53 13 167,511 73 1883 202,635 99 149,681 50 1884 347,4.55 73 282,100 63 1885 281,231 41 196.751 44 1886 171,749 80 130,945 93 Following is a statement of taxes together with the amount of taxable property in the count\- for each decade since the cre- ation of the county. Date. PoU. Total Taxables Total Taxes. 1841 559 $ 401,354 | 3.933 42 1850 1,851 977,270 16.200 20 18(i0 3,606 4,265,763 3!I.S2ij 48 1870 3,278 5,346,505 116,595 75 1880 4,059 7,358,540 135.877 34 Poor. — To properly care for the indigent of the county was a matter that called for attention from those in whose hands the public affairs had been intrusted, at the very beginning of the county's existence. At the first term of commissioners court William N. Hood and William M. Re^burn were appointed overseers of the poor of Peru Township. It was the dutv of these overseers to look after the needy of their respective Town- ships. The children were "bound out" while the adults were "farmed out" to the person who would properlv care for them and pay the highest price for their services. Those who by indolence and prodigality', had been thrown upon the public for support, found the svstem verv objectionable, and finding that they would be compelled to work for those to whom their labor had been sold, thev would refuse to accept the charities of the public and devise some other means of lively-hood. For those unfortunates who had properly became objects of charitj' the system not unfrequently worked a hardship. A County Asj-lum was soon provided and the old method abandoned. Poor Fiiriii. — In IMa}', 1835, an order was made by the Board of Commissioners authorizing William N. Hood to purchase for the location of a county poor asylum, the northeast fraction of Sec- tion 3, Township 27, Range 4. The counl^• paid for said land 283 $20.8o. From the experience of other counties it had become a well established fact that the poor of each count}' could be better provided for and more cheaply kept in an as3lum provided for that purpose than under the old svstem of township overseers. The Board, in accordance with the above conclusion, appointed I. M. DeFrees and Samuel Glass to contract for the erection of two houses described as follows: Houses to be constructed of hewn logs, 12x8 inches, the buildings to be two stories high. The first story to be 8 feet, 6 inches in the clear, and the second to be 7 feet, 6 inches in the clear. One house to be 26x18 feet, and the other 18 feet square. The contract provided that the buildings should be placed eight feet apart, and in the center of the land previouslv bought by said county. The contract was purchased by George W. Meeks for the sum of $365.00. The buildings were accepted by the Board in March, 1846, and a superintendent appointed to take charge of said asylum and provide for the wants of those un- fortunates who were dependent upon the charity of the world for support. O. E. Noland was appointed superintendent, and his re- port for the first vear showed that not a single pauper had been sent to the asylum. After several years the provisions were found to be inadequate, and the old farm \Vas sold to Charles Pefferman for $r,ooo.o6, and the southwest quarter of Section 3, Township 26, Range 4, in Washington Township, containing 160 acres, was purchased for the sum of $6,400.00. John Clifton was awarded the contract for the erection of a new house, which was completed and accepted July 12, 1864. The following are the annual expense for the poor of the county for the dates as below given: Date. Expenditures. Date. Expenditures. 1845 1 310 20 18(56 2,812 84 184G .506 25 1867 .3,;310 18 1847 155 94 1868 8,27156 1848 490 65 1869 5,8:3160 1849 662 09 1870 7,780 49 185ration. That, were it possible to blot out these improvements and transform the country in to its primeval state, the condition in which we found it, our honest convictions are that not one-half the tracts, now rendered valuable by our labor, could be sold at their minimum rate. Permit us further to represent, th;it the number of families occujjjing this ter- ritory, as actual settlers, is nearly two thousand, the value of whose improvements will probably average three hundred dollars each, and of this number not more than two hundred will lie prepared to avail themselves of the benefit of the late pre-emp- tion law. unless the sale sliall Vie [lostponed until the Fall of 184S, affording time to reali/<' the proceeds of the labor of tlie present and succeeding years. Unless the sale sliall be thus deferred, the consequences will be, that two hundred settlers will be able to secure eighty acres of laud each, which will bring into the I'nited States Treasury the inconsiderable smn of 80,000 dollars. Eighteen hundred will be unable to buy and must necessarily lose .'540,000 dollars expended in improvements, while the sale of these lands, on account of the improvements, will add to tlie National Ex- chequer 288,000 dollars, selling at the minimum rate of two dollars per acre, which may be the case, when the settler has not the me.ans to compete with an organized band of speculators. In view of this state of facts, the jiroclamation of Your E.vcellency designating so early a day for the sale of these lands has given rise to the most lively emotions of regret in the breasts of those for wliose benefit the late pre-emption law was enacted, and we have spontaneously laid aside our implements of liusbandary, and have con- gregated together for the purpose of imploring at the hands of Your Excellency, a posti>onement of this sale. Vi'e came here as ]iioneers of a country usually come, in humble circumstances, many of us have large families claiming support at our hands, have suffered the privations incident to a settlement in a new country, our labor and the jiroducts thereof have been alisorbed in opening our lields and erecting our cab- ins, and the general sickness which has prevailed to a fearful extent for the past two j'ears, producing an incalculalile .amount of human .suffering and destitution, has swept away the means that otherwise miglit have been spared to secure at this time our wilderness homes — homes w hich are dear to us, not on account of the supei-ior- ity of the soil, nor in view of their desirable localities, but because we have reclaim- ed them and rendered them valuable by the sweat of our brows — because of our la- bor, highways of communication now traverse the vast wilds where a short time ago the trail of the Indian ventured not — homes rendered dear by social and domestic ties, and thrice sacred as the burial ground of dep.arted friends. Yet, if this appli- cation for po.-itpouement fails, the homes of eighteen hundred families who have thus contributed their toil and treasure to render them valuable, will pass into the hands of heartless speculator.-*, and these families will become houseless, homeless, dispir- ited w.anderers after new lields of labor for a subsistence. In concluding this appeal. Your Excellency will permit us to say, while we are sensible that no ordinary circumstances, at this crisis, should be allowed to check the flow of money into the Xational Treasury, we at the same time feel contident that the voice of humanity, though it comes from the w ilderness, will not plead in vain. Therefore, we ask, if within the scope of Executive discretion, that Your Excel- lency may cause the sale of the "Miami Cessions" to be postponed, at least, until the Fall of 1848 or \mtil after the next congre.ss shall convene, and your petitioners will ever pray. Miami Keskkve. June 12th. 1847. Hail JRoads. — ^January 19, 1846, by the efforts of William J. llol- 288 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. man, the Indianapolis & Peru R. R. Compan}- was incorporated. In the election of the first Board of Directors Miami County was represented by J. T. Miller, G. S. Fenimore, William Kesler, R. L. Britton, W. J. Holman and N. O. Ross. In June 1849, a proposi- tion was submitted to the people of the county a.sking for a sub- scription of $20,000 for the encouragement of the project. This was carried by a large majority of the taxpayers, and $10,000 of said appropriation was immediately borrowed and placed in the hands of the directors. After much delay and many appeals to the people for additional help, the road was completed to Peru in the spring of 1854. The road was afterward extended to Michigan City, and is now known as the Indianapolis, Peru & Chicago R. R. The entire length of the road in the county is nearly forty miles, and has contributed much to the deyelopment of its resources and added largely to its material prosperity. Another project, which was contemporaneous with the fore- going, and in which the people of Miami County were much inter- ested, proyided for the construction of a road from Marion, Ind., to Chicago, yia Peru. The compan}' was incorporatdd under the name of the Marion, Peru & Chicago Railroad Company. The object of the scheme was to connect with another proposed route from Marion eastward with Cincinnati the terminal point. Thus the two great trade centers would haye been connected by a road as practicable as any that has since been constructed. In the election of othcers Mr. James B. Fulwiler, of Peru was chosen Vice-Presi- dent, and be it said to his credit, that if aU others connected with the company had displayed the same energy and zeal, the project would not haye failed. The following account of the project is in Mr. Fulwiler's own words: " In the year 1853 a compan}' was organized for the construc- tion of a railroad from Peru to Marion, Grant County, Indiana, composed of nine directors, to-wit: Judge M. G. Mitchell, of Piqua, Ohio, President: James B. Fulwiler, of Peru, Vice-President: Ira Stanley, X. O. Ross, C. S. Ellis, John A. Graham, Jesse Higgins, L. D. Adkinson and Peirce, of Marion. A large amount of stock was subscribed by substantial men along the yalley of the Mississinewa, and a written contract was entered into with the the President and Directors of the Mississinewa Valle\' Railroad Company, and the agents, legally appointed, of the Columbus, Piqua & Indiana Railroad Company, and duly adopted and confirmed by the respectiye companies, pro\iding for a perpetual business con- nection between the said companies at Union City, on the State line, of such a character as to full}- authorize and empower either of said parties to giye through tickets and freight bills either way over the several roads; providing for a uniform gauge, using the T rail, and for the erection of water stations, depots, switches, etc. As RAILROADS. 2 89 the road shall then be completed to Peru, Miami County, Jndiana, the Columbus Company agreed to put upon the roads a sutticient amount of rolling stock for the business of the same as soon as the road should be completed in parts to justify it, and after the roads are completed, the said Columbus Conipan\- shall run the same for ten years upon fair and equitable terms to be agreed upon by the parties in interest. It was further agreed, upon the completion of the road, that, upon the election of either company to consolidate the stock, it should be done, and that the stock of each company should be put in at its fair cash value at that time, and new stock certilicates issued for the same. This contract was to be binding upon the parties so soon as confirmed by the boards of directors of the respective companies, and certified copies of this resolution, under seal, were interchanged between them. This secured to Peru the certainty of the road, and J. B. Ful- ^viler and Jesse Higgins, who were instrumental in accomplishing these perpetual connections upon which depended the successful negotiations of their bond, returned to Peru from Marion, Grant County, where the representatives of the various roads had con- vened, flushed with victory over the combined wealth and talent of Logansport, only to find, to their mortification, that the director}' of the Union, Peru & Chicago Railroad Company had, during their absence, been beguiled by two adventurers, representing themselves as railroad men and capitalists, into a consolidation with another road from Peru to Chicago, and changing the eastern direction from Peru to a southern route by way of Cambridge City, the home of one of the adventurers. Thus Peru lost the benefit of contracts with the Marion & Mississinewa Valley Railroad Company and Columbus, Piqua & Indiana Railroad Company (by which the construction of the road from Peru to Marion was assured), as assurance had been given the Union, Peru & Chicago Company by certain New York capi- talists that, with the above connection duh' and legally entered into thev would furnish sufficient means for the construction of the road upon the bonds of the company." Toledo (£• IVaha^/i. — The first encouragement given to the con- struction of this line was at a public meeting held at Logansport, June 23, 1852. The road was completed between Peru and Logansport in 1856. It is now incorporated under the name of the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific, with its termini at St. Louis and Toledo. This road, like all other public enterprises, received the financial encouragement of the people of Miami County, who have always showed their liberalit\- h\ their suj port of every movement tending toward public good. Pan Handle, or Pittsburg, Cincinnati & St. Louis, was built through the county about the year 1867. This affords the people 290 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. of the southern portion of the county the means of transporting their products direct to Chicago and Cincinnati, and reaching tiie best markets of the country. Several prosperous towns have been built along the line of this road, which adds much to the wealth of the county. The Eel River Road was completed through the county . It entered the county from the west, in the Section 8, Township 27, Range 3; thence in a northeasterly direction to Mex- ico and Denver; thence east through Chili to the eastern limits of the county. While the line is not so successfully operated as other roads of the county, yet the benefits to this section of the county have been incalculable. This road traverses the county a total dis- tance of about seventeen miles. Gravel Roads. — During the past few vears there has been greatl improvement in the matter of public highways. In various parts of the count}- gravel roads have been made, and perhaps nothing contributes more to the welfare and progress of a commun- ity than good highways. The following table gives the date of the establishing of the several roads, together with the total estimated cost of the roads, including interest on the bonds and all other expense up to the lime they are to be paid for in full : 1883. Shrock— Wa.shington and Clay Townsliijis 5; 31,992 80 " Miller — Harrison, and a little in .Jackson Twp.. 9,067 36 " Marsh— Butler and Harrison Townships 28,240 08 " Ellis— in Pipe Creek Townshi]) 18,478 35 " DiKkwall— in Pipe Creek Township 6,735 82 " Ballard— in .Jackson Township 23,467 70 1883. Cole— in Washinjnon Township 7,107 13 " Zehring — in Deer Creek Township 10,199 44 " Phelps— in Clay, and part in Deer Creek Twp.. Il,l4l 06 " Squirrel Village — in Pipe Creek Township. .. . 8,173 57 1885. Peru and Strawtown— in Washington Township. 7,000 00 All free. The toll roads are : Peru & Mexico Turnpike Companv, Peru & Chili Turnpike Companv, Peru & Paw Paw Turnpike Company, Peru & Mississinewa Turnpike Compan\', Peru & Santa Fe Turnpike Companv. There are no reliable statistics at hand showing the cost of these, as they are private property. Medical Society. — The Miami Count\- Medical Societ\' was or- ganized, and articles of association filed Januar\' 3, 1875. The object of the society as set forth in the article of association, are to advance medical knowledge, improve the health and protect the lives of the communitv, and elevate the professional character of its members. Any regular graduate from a reputable medical college, of good moral character may become a member of said society by paving into the treasury the sum of three dollars. The original signers of the articles of association are as follows: J. H. Helm, ELECTIONS. 291 M. D. Ellis, E. M. Bloomfield, E. J. Kendall, W. II. Brenton, J. O. Ward, W. A. McCoy, James A. Meek, E. C. Friermood, S. S. Marsh, W. T. Wilson, O. C. Irwin, James M. McKee and C. B. Higgins. The present membership as shown by Secretary's books is as follows : W. K. Armstrong, U. A. A. Ager, E. M. Bloomfield, C. C. Brady, W. H. Brenton, Ezra K. Friermood, B. R. Graham, John H. Helm, Carter B. Higgins, James A. Meek, S. S. Marsch, Henry P. McDonald, Rollin Pence and A. F.. Smith. The present officers are W. K. Armstrong, President; Carter B. Higgins, Secre- tary; Edwin M. Bloomfield, Treasurer and A. F. Smith, H. P. McDowell and E. K. Friermood Censors. Agrictdtural Societies. — Early in the history of the common- wealth of Indiana, did the la\y-maker recognize the value that would accrue from the incorporation of such societies, and accordingly provided b}- law for their organization. The first effort to organize a society in Miami County was in the early part of the fifties. After repeated efforts the Miami County Agricultural Society was organ- ized. The grounds were located east of the city of Peru on land owned by William Smith. Fairs were held here for many years, from which much good resulted. The ne.xt organization of this character was the Peru Driving Park and Fair Association which was incorporated September 20, 1873. The object as set forth in the articles of association were to promote the agricultural, horticultural, mechanical and household interest of the county. The authorized capital stock was $22,000 divided into shares of $100 each. The largest stockholders were J. T. Stevens, J. C. Kratzer, Wm. Rassner, G. and G. W. Conradt. No fairs have been held by this society for several years. Elections. — From various sources, the following figures have been compiled, showing the results of the Presidential elections for the years named: NOVEMBER 1844. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCBAT. WHIG. LIBERTY. Polk and Clay and Birney and Dallas. Frelinguuysen. Morris. Peru 256 282 Union 44 26 1 .lefforson 52 54 Richland 70 00 Perrv 44 78 WiLsiiinifton 10 20 Pipe Crei-lt 22 20 Butler li) 23 Total 517 569 No returns for Lake and Erie Townships. 292 HISTORY OF >nAMI COUNTY. NOVEMBER 1848. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCRAT. Caes and Butler. Peru 171 Jefferson 73 Kichbmd 87 Perry 69 Union 55 Erie 34 Wasbinj!:ton 77 Pipe Creek 60 Deer Creeli 30 Clay 39 Jackson 28 Butler , 47 Total 770 No returns from Harrison. WHIO. FREE SOIL. Taylor and YanBoren and Filmore. Adams. 175 7 95 12 98 2 73 26 47 4 19 68 • 34 33 4 17 18 15 55 730 70 NOVEMBER 1852. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCR.IT. Pierce and King. Peru 253 Jeilerson 92 Erie 47 Washington 114 Deer Creek 74 Clay 89 Union 99 Pipe Creek 74 Richland 97 Perry 91 Butler 69 Jackson 43 Harrison 55 Total 1196 wrao. FREE SOIL. Scott and Hale and Graham. Julian. 22G 3 135 12 28 70 1 70 6 24 63 1 56 124 85 13 84 24 33 9 16 968 85 NOVEMBER, 1856. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCRAT. Buchanan and Breckenridge. Deer Creek 66 Kichl.mcl 132 Perry 98 Peru 370 Union 138 Clay 98 Jackson 55 Harrison 69 Pipe Creek 112 Butler 66 Jefferson 124 Washington 131 Erie 54 Total 1513 REPTTRLICAN. FREE SOIL. Fremont and Filmore and Da>-ton. Donelson. 98 2 142 3 110 16 292 5 103 1 30 1 107 6 50 65 113 4 135 1 102 43 1390 38 ELECTIONS. 293 NOVEMBER, i860. TOWNSHIP. DEMOOB VT. P.EPUBLIOAN. IND. DEMnORAT. UNION. BreckenriilKe Lincoln anil Dous-liis and Boll and and Lane. Humlin. jDJinson. Everett- Peru 7 369 881 Jefferson 7 151 ll(i Union 81 73 Allen 5 63 77 Perry i 174 121 Richland 186 148 Erie 3 57 58 Washinfcton 113 121 IJutler 165 87 .Jackson 138 45 Harrison 69 86 Clay 55 117. Deer Creek 124 67 Pipe Creek 90 111 Total 26 1835 1608 00 NOVEMBER 1864. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCRAT. REPUBLICAN. McClellan and Lincoln and Pendleton. JohuBon. Peru 434 384 Jefferson 134 139 Perry 110 163 Union 79 81 Hichland 126 195 p;rio 57 61 Butler 103 153 Washington 123 101 Pipe Creek 114 82 Deer Creek 63 168 Clay 145 51 Harrison .- 94 59 Jackson 62 120 Allen 74 69 Total 1717 1831 NOVEMBER 1868. TOWNSHIP. DEMOCRAT. REPUBLICAN, Seymourand Grant and Blair. Colfax. Peru 569 485 Jefferson 178 129 Union 110 108 Perry 1,54 200 Richland 126 212 Erie 60 74 Butler 128 163 Washinffton 167 123 Pipe Creek 154 111 Deer Creek 103 146 Clay 147 51 Harrison 147 103 Jackson 134 196 Allen 94 93 Total 2271 2193 294 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. NOVEMBER, 1S72. DEMOOBAT AND TOWNSHIP. LIBERAL BEPUBLICAN. KEPUBLICAN. Greely and Gr.int ami Brttwn. Wilson. Peru G-10 7.58 Jefferson 117 141 Deer Creek 79 152 Clay 140 57 Butler 132 150 Perry 138 180 Richlimcl 112 209 Erie 77 50 Allen 63 129 Union 71 124 Jackson 132 227 Washington 158 116 Pipe Creek 165 115 Harrison 95 127 Total 2119 2535 NOVEMBER, 1876. TOWNSHIPS. BEPUBLICAN. DEMOCRAT. Hayes and Tilden and Wheeler. Hendricks. Allen 154 123 Peru 714 794 Jeffer-son 165 206 Perry 201 166 Union 125 130 Richland 223 172 Erie 76 88 Butler 177 172 Washinirton 132 201 Pipe Creek 163 201 Deer Creek 163 112 Clay 54 124 Harrison 112 135 Jackson 265 171 Total 2724 2785 NOVEMBER 1880. DEMOOBAT. O'Conor and Julian. 1 1 8 8 1 10 20 50 INDEPENDENT. Cooper and Cars-. 64 TOWNSHIP. BEPDELICAN. Garfield and Arthur. Allen 168 Peru 511 Jefferson 216 Perry 203 Union 121 Kicliland 224 Erie 77 Butler 135 Wasliiuiiton 165 Pipe Creek 204 Deer Creek 176 Clay 61 Harrison 125 Jackson 284 T(>t;il 301G DEMOCRAT. NATIOS.W,. Hancock and Weaver and Enalish. Chambers. 125 9 903 8 229 170 3 120 181 88 186 33 213 4 198 4 125 4 191 173 159 35 3066 107 COUNTY OFFICERS. 295 NOVEMBER 1884. TOWNSHIP. BKMOOBAT. R'.n'lIBLlCAN. NATIONAL. PROHIBITION. Cli'vclnnd ami Hlaincaml Butler. St. John. Hendricks. LoKau. Allen l'2t) 1()7 13 Peru 1103 840 18 1 Jefferson 2.")1 217 6 Perry li)3 201 1 Union Ill 113 1 Kichland 143 205 23 2 Erie 85 75 2 1 Bi tier 165 169 13 Wiishington 216 151 1 1 Pipe Creek 209 182 5 Deer (.'reek 158 168 1 3 Clay 188 81 Harrison 180 108 1 14 Jackson 183 309 15 5 Total 3810 2996 98 29 Co)iiiiiisswiicrs. — Fir.st Di.strict, John Crudson, 1834; Wm. M. Reybui-n, 1835; Z. W. Pendleton, 183S; D. R. Bearss, 1840; John Hiner, 1841; George Wilson, 1844; George C. Smith, 1847; Sam- uel Jamison, 1850; David A. Carr, 1853; Cornelius Cain and E. B. Masse}-, 1854; N. D. Nicoles, 1856; John Hann, 1861; Thomas Dillard, 1864; William Zehring, 1867; Joseph B. Mills, 1S73; Stephen Cranor, 1876; D. H. Cain, 1880; G. S. Evans, 1882. Second District, John W. Miller, 1834; James Gillett, 1839; Henry Zern, 1848; F. S. Hackley, 1851; George Wilson, 1854; Allen Skillman, 1857; David Charters, i860; Paul Burk, 1S63; David Charters, 1866; R. C. Harrison, 1869; Absalom Wilson, 1875; Geo. Eikenbery, 1878: Fred Meyers, 1884. Third District, Alexander Jamison, 1834; Euther Chapin, 1840; Samuel Jamison, 1841: Martin M. Scruggs, 1842; Hiram Butler, 1849; E. A. Deniston, 1855; James R. Leonard, 1861; R. K. Charles, 1864; James R. Leonard, 1865; Benjamin Graft, 1870; John C. Davis, 1876; J. W. Hunt, 1882; J. C. Davis, 1884: Noah Miller, 1886. Clcrls: — Benjamin H. Scott, 1S34; J^mcs B. Fuhviler, 184S; Alexander Blake, 1855: Darius C. Darrow, 1863; John A. Graham, 1867; Jesse S. Zern, 1871; C. A. Parson, 1879; Joseph Lari- mer, 1887. Auditors. — James M. Defrees, 1841; Ira Mendenhall, 185 1; Elam Henton, 1855; Thomas Jav. 1859; Franklin T. Foote and Elam Henton, 1862: Charles Efferman, 1864: Milo D. Ellis, 1865; Louis B. Fuhviler, 1870: R. B. Runyan, 1878: Wm B. Miller, 1886. Recorders. — Benjamin H. Scott, 1834; William C. Buckhanan, George Wilkerson, 1855: Abel L. Hurtt, 1859: William S.Todd, 1863: William F.Ege, 187 1: Wm. A. Gibney, 1879: Michael Bap- pert, 1887. 296 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Treasurers. — Abner Overman, 1834: A. M. Higgins and Albert Cole, 1836: Zach. W. Pendleton and William R. Mabrav, 1837; Samuel Glass, 1842; Carlton R. Tracy, 1848: Daniel Brower, 1853: Silas Enyart, 1855; Henrv Dutton, 1857: David R. Todd, 1859; James T. Miller, 1863: Otto P. Webb, 1865: James T. Mil- ler, 1867: Charles Spencer, 1871: William B. Deniston and Ira B. Meyers, 1873: Jno. R. Porter, 1879: Ebenezer Humrickhouse, i88"i; J. C. Clymer, 1885. Sheriff. — Jacob Linzee, 1834; A. Leonard and L. D. Atkinson, 1838; John A. Graham, i84i;Noah S. Allsbaugh, 1S45; Coleman Henton, 1847; Jonas Hoover, 1851; Hiram Moore, 1854; John Wertz, 1855; Joseph Hiner, 1857: John T. Miller, O. H. P. Macv, 1858; Wesley Wallick, i860: O. H. P. Macy, 1862: Wesley Wal- lick, 1864; Samuel Ream, 1868; Willard Griswold, 1872: Vincent O'Donald, 1876; A. J. Parks, 1880: Edward T. Gray, 1884. Surveyor. — Joseph B. Campbell, 1835; A. A.Cole, 1840:8. Holman, 1841: Ira Mendenhall, 1843: George W. Goodrich, 1847; Milton Cook, 1852: H. Beane. 1854: J. M. Moorhead, 1S56: Henry Krauskoff, 1S58; C.J. Kloenne, i860; Henry Krauskoff, 1861, A. J. Phelps, 1863; G. W. Goodrich, 1864: D.'C. Goodrich, 1866; S. E. Haacken, 1868; W. W^ Sullivan, 1872: Richard H. Cole, 1876; Michael Horan, 1880. Coroner. — James Crowell, 1836; James Mowbraj-, 1846: Wm. S. White, 1848: Robert Miller, 1854: James Crowell, 1862; Adam Beck, 1869: Joseph Oldham, i874:Joseph C. Ogle, 1876; Charles Broadbeck, 1878: A. B. Scott, 1879: Abner C. Kimball, 1880; George Nelp, 1882; Eli J. Jamison, 1886 Senators. — George W. Ewing, 1837; William Wright, 1840; William M. Re\burn, 1843; Cyrus Taber, 1846: Jacob D. Cassatt, 1847: Benjamin Henton, 1850: John Shellenberger. 1852; Daniel R. Bearss, 1854: Samuel S. Terry, 1864; Stearns Fisher, 1868; Robert Miller, 1870; Daniel R. Bearss, 1874: Milton Garrigus, 187S; L. D. Adkinson, 1882: B. F. Harness, 1886. Representatives. — Gillis McBean, 1835: William N. Hood, 1836: Alexander Wilson, 1838: William M. Reyburn, 1840; Daniel R. Bearss, 1841; Gabriel Swihart, 1842; Daniel R. Bearss, 1843; John U. Pettit, 1844: Benjamin Henton, 1845: George W. Holman, 1846; Alphonso A. Cole, 1847: Natlian C. Ross, 1848: Alonzo A. Cole, 1849: Richard F. Donaldson, 1850: Benjamin Henton, 1852; N. W. Dickerson. 1854: Reuben C. Harrison, 1856: William Smith, 1858: Richard F. Donaklson, 1862: Jonas Hoover, 1864: Nathan O. Ross, i866:Jonathan D. Cox, 1868: J. W. Edward, 1872; David Charters, 1874; Samuel Woodv. 1874: William Zehring, 1876; W. H. Thomson, 1876: G. I. Reed (Miami and Howard): A. C. Bearss, 1878; C. A. Cole, 1880: N. N. Antrin, 1882; Henry V. j'/s^Aa^y MII>ITAKY HISTORY. 299 Passage, 1884: Jabez Cox, 1886; Charles Cox (Miami and Cass), 1886. CHAPTER IV. Military History — The Early Militia System — The Mexi- can War — Public Sentiment Prior to 1861 — The Call TO Arms — First Troops for the Front — Miami County Regiments in Detail — Roll of Honor — Bounty and Re- lief. FROM the earliest settlement in Miami County by the whites, there was but little military display to interrupt the peaceful pursuits of its citizens until that deluge of civil discord which began in 1 86 1. When the first permanent homes were established here, the hidian troubles that attended the second war with Great Britian had been settled. The celebrated Miami Confederacy had been entirely broken up, leaving the country undisturbed by the red war- riors. Some of them yet linger in the county, reluctant to quit the scenes of their nativity, but the tide of immigration has submerged most of them, and thev are now scarcely known except in the fad- intj memor\- of the oldest settlers. c) ■ . . . . The militia, which had done such effective service in the early Indian wars, was fostered by the early laws of the State. All able- bodied men of proper age were enrolled and required to attend cer- tain da\s in each year for the purpose of drilling in militar\- tactics. At lirst the people took active interest in learning the different mili- tary movements and studied in their homely way the strategies of war. Each man furnished a gun in the beginning, and all were skilled in the manual of arms. These musters took place several times a year and were generally held at the county seat or some other important point in the county. They were always attended by large and motley crowds. A long period of peace had some- what impaired the efficiency of these musters, and the occasions became more of the nature of holidays. As the men were privileged from arrest on "training days" a general jollilication usually took place, and fun of the more rough and boisterous kind was indulged in, frequently mingled with fights. This system was maintained almost uninterrupted until the time of the Mexican war. Mexican War. — Affairs between the United States and Mex- ico having assumed a hostile attitude, the President of the United States by proclamation. May 11, 1846, announced that a state of 4 300 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. war existed between this country and Mexico. Conijress immedi- ately authorized a call for 50,000 volunteers, one-half to be mus- tered in at once, and the remainder to be used as a reserve. May 23d, 1846, James Whitcomb, Governor of Indiana, issued a procla- mation, in conformity with the orders of the President. Immedi- atel\- upon the call of the Governor, Capt. John M. Wilson com- menced the enlistment of volunteers for the war. Failing to enlist a full compan}- from Miami County, volunteers from the counties of Tippecanoe and Johnson joined in sufficient numbers to complete the roster. Owing to the incompleteness of the records in the Adjutant-Generars Ofiice, only a partial enrollment of the company can be given. Privates — Jno. Mellen. Wm. Passons, Geo. Carpen- ter, W. L. Price, Richard Bell, Joseph Bishop, C. M. Drouillard, Martin Wey, Phillip Parcels, Wm. McClain, Q. A. Fisk, Jesse Rowdle, J. Richardson, Luther Bush, Valentine Prester, G. Gor- don, J. Brown, James Rellahor. Wm. Dought\', L. B. Lynch, Bar- net Judge, H. Davenport, S. Segraves, Levi Shelenberger. J. W. Nichols, J. C. Harvey, J. H. Reed. Edward Anibal, S. S. Bottow, P. I. Brown, S. L. Clark, W. L. Clark, Samuel Collyer, Jackson Castor, J. S. Denton, Wm. Flagg, J. B. Franklin, Nathan Gibson, Joseph Gertes, Jonas Hoover, W. Humphrer, Isaac Ilarter, Alex. Hoiliday, Wm. Kelley, I. Keicher, L. Alarquiss, Conrad Metzer, Edward McManus, Michael McDonald, Dennis Naughton. Michael O'Niel, H. W. Penny, James Parr, Adam Pence. S. Rodger, Geo. Roundebush, James Shahan, Jno. Scarce, Edward Wilson, Abram Wright, D. R. Todd, Jno. S. Crooks, Howard Shadinger, W. G. Kersner, Henrj' Collins, L. Curtis, A. A. Hunter, James Coleman, Charles Smith, Major Miller, Harvey Tucker, D. M. Dunn, Cap- tain Sanderson, A. F. Smith, W. T. Wilson. Captain Wilson, with company-, left Peru for New Albany, the place of rendezvous, June i6th, 1846. In the organization of regi- ments. Captain Wilson's company was assigned to the position of B in the First Regiment. The regiment was officered by James P. Drake, Colonel: C. C. Na\'e, Lieutenant-Colonel, and I^enry S. Lane, Major. At the expiration of one year the company was mustered out with regiment June 15th, 1847. For several years prior to 1861 the country had been drift- ing surely toward civil war. The two sections, the North and the South, had different interests to serve in the administration of national affairs. Until that time the contest had often been vigorous between the two sections, but always peaceful. The Republican party was then in its infancy, but it contained some elements that foretold destruction to the greatest institution of the Southern States — slavery. It is true that the part\' had not then taken an\- direct stand upon the question of slavery, but its leaders were among the avowed opponents of that institution. MILITARY IIISTOKV. 3OI and nianv liad been identified with the movement for its aboli- tion. Abraham Lincoln had publicl}- declared that it was his deliberate conviction that the Government could not exist half sla\e and half free. His election to the Presidency, therefore, the Southern Stales accepted as a menance to their institutions, w-hich had long been sanctioned by the laws, and, as they thouirht, with apparent right. In that section of the Union the doctrine of State rights as paramount to national rights had long- been taught under the leadership of John C. Calhoun. Accord- inglv the\' did not long hesitate to secede from the Union when it was known that Lincoln had been dul}- elected President. The South had for many years been dominant in the affairs of the nation, and with them it was rule or ruin. In the election of 1S60 thev had seceded from the Democratic part>-, with which they had always acted, and refused to support Stephen A. Douglas for President. On the 20th of December, i860, following the election of Lincoln, South Carolina took the first active step and passed an ordinance of secession from the Union. In this movement she was followed in rapid succession by Miss- issippi, January 9; Alabama and Florida, January 11; Georgia, Jainiarv 19: Louisiana, January 26; Texas, February i ; Virginia, April 17: Arkansas and Tennessee, May 6; North Carolina, Ma\' 21. No President ever assimied the duties of that high ollice under more tr\ing times than did Abraham Lincoln. Seven States had declared themselves out of the Union and refused to recognize his authority, and in less than two months foiu- others had followed into the Confederacy. In February, 1861, a peace conference was held at Baltimore, attended h\ some of the most influential men from most of the States. The object was to effect a compromise between the different sections of the L'nion and to prevent a disruption and war. After a laborious sitting of several days it adjourned without ha\ing accomplished the purpose for which it was called. Excitement was at the greatest tension throughout the country and public spirit ran high. The extreme partisans that had supported the new President were for a time disap]U)inted when thev saw that other States were allowed unmolested to leave the Union and join the Confederacy. All over the North there was a divided sentiment in regard to the cause and responsibility of this attempt to sever the Union. There were many who believed that if the South wanted to withdraw from the Union there was no legitimate way of preventing it. In other words thev thoiufht a State could not be "coerced." I'he condition of affairs was so strained that meetings were held in all parts of the country to •discuss the state of the Union and advise the best course to pursue. It was in the midst of this excitement of the public 302 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. mind that the firing upon Fort Sumpter took place. That deed, more than all others, united the loval hearts of the North in de- fense of the national flag that had heen fired upon hv those in rebellion. They welcomed it, perhaps, as the only solution to the questions of the hour, and gladly responded to the call to arms. The Call to Arms. — No portion of the Union responded to the President's call for 75,000 volunteers with more alacrity than did the Slate of Indiana. And of Indiana's thousands of loyal sons none were more eager for the fray than the citizens of Miami Countv. Hardly had the echoes from the last guns at Fort Sumpter died away before the stirring scenes that attended a public volunteering were arousing the people of Peru and vicinity. The thought of our flag being lowered at the com- mand of a rebellion inspired new patriotism in all those who loved that flag for the principles of union and toleration that it represented. If there had been any in this community who held that obnoxious idea that the General Government could not coerce a State into compliance with its laws, they were prudently quiet when that question first came to the test. The sentiment of the people was almost wholly and unanimously in favor of maintaining the Union unimpaired. Volunteer iiig. — The smoke from the guns of Fort Sumpter had scarcely blown away before the people of Miami Countv, with the patriotism that had characterized their action in the past, had come forward and proffered their services for the defense of the country. The proclamation of President Lincoln calling for 75,000 troops was issued April 15th, 1862, the news reaching Peru on the follow- ing day. .This was immediately followed by the proclamation from Governor Morton, which was responded to by the offer of a full company organized and ready for the front. The company was organized by J. M. Wilson, who was at the time the most prominent military man in the county, having served as captain in the Mexican war. The compan\- at once reported at Indianapolis, but the quota under the first call had been filled and the company was in consequence held as reserve until the call for enlistment for three years service was issued, when it was mustered in and assigned the position of B in the Thirteenth Regiment. The commis.sioned officers of the company with the dates of commissions were. Cap- tain. J. M. Wilson, April 23, 1861; William H. Shields. May 10. 1862. First Lieutenants, William H. Shields, April 23, 1861; Wm. F. M. Wallick, May 10, 1862; William B.Vance, July 15, 1863. Second Lieutenants, were Wm. F. M. Wallick, May 6, r86i : George W. Rader, May 18, 1862; Henry Sterne, September i, 1862; Silas Clark, June 3, 1863. The latter became First Lieuten- ant, Company A reorganized. The original number of enlisted MILITARY HISTORY. 303 men of the company was 96. It was recruited with 22 men. There were 17 non-commissioned and enHsted men died, and 11 deserters. John M. Wilson was promoted Major of tliis regiment Mav 10, 1862, and was rccommissioned November 14th of the same \ear, promoted Lieutenant-Colonel June 13, 1863; term expired August 3, 1S64; re-entered the service as Colonel of the 155th regiment. George W. Rader was promoted quartermaster. Sketch of the Thirteenth Re;j;imciit. — This was one of the four Regiments that first entered the service from Indiana for the term of three years, and was mustered in at Indi- anapolis .on the 19th of June, 1861, with Jerry C. Sullivan, as Colonel. On the 4th of July it left for the field, and on the morning of the loth joined Gen. McClellan's forces at the foot of Rich Mountain, Western Virginia. On the next day it par- ticipated in the battle of Rich Mountain, under Gen. Rosecrans, losing 8 killed and 9 vv'ounded. On the 13th it moved to Bev- erlv and thence to Cheat Mountain Pass, and on the 12th and 13th of September took part in the engagement which resulted in the defeat of Gen. Lee's forces. It marched to Alleghany un- der Gen. Milrov. and on the 13th of December participated in the battle at that place. After several movements of minor im- portance, it moved to Winchester, where it pru-ticipated in the battle of Winchester Heights on the 22nd of March, and then followed in the pursuit of Stonewall Jackson's army as far as New Market. It participated in the battle of the Deserted Farm on the 30th of January, 1863, and the defeat of Long- street in his attempt to seize Suffolk. Whjle stationed at Folev Island it took part in the operations on Morris Island, during the seige of Forts Wagner and Greirc:- and was the first to en- ter in the assault on Fort Wagner on the 7th of Septem- ber. The Thirteenth was engaged in nearly all the operations of Gen. Butler's arm}- south of Richmond, in all of which the loss was about two hundred. On the 13th of June, 1S64, the Regiment was transferred to the Army of the Potomac. After which it participated in the battle of Cold Harbor, assault of the rebel works in front of Petersburg, the battle of Strawberry Plains and operations against Richmond. On the 6th of De- cember, 1864, was reorganized into a baltallion of five compan- ies. Was mustered out on the 5th of September, 1865, with 29 officers and 550 enlisted men. Non-commissioned officers of Company B were Henr}' Sterns. James Carney, James Robinson. Jno. H. Ream and Dan- iel Baker, Sergeants; S. E. Chamberlain, William Starr, A. B. Andrews, Alexander Leach. John Powell, William Vance, Francis Moore, Jno. F. Wagoner, Corporals. Conipaiiv F Sixteenth jRegiiiicnt, was the second company to 304 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. enlist from this county. The commissioned officers of the company with dates of commissions were, Captains: J. C. Jones. Greencastle, August 13, 1862:}. R. S. Cox, Indianapolis, November 25, 1862; Elijah Hawkins, Peru, April 14, 1865. First Lieutenants: Elijah Hawkins, August 12, 1862: George Cline. INIav i, 1865. Second Lieutenants: J. R. S. Co.\, 1862: Henry L. Boyce, Januar\- 25, 1863; WiUiam A. Walker, May i. 1865. The original number of enlisted men was 88, with 30 recruits. Of the 88 enlisted men 48 were credited to Miami county, while the whole number of recruits were from this county. There were 24 non-commis- sioned officers and enlisted men who died, and five deserted. The whole number accounted for, 120. None of the regimental officers were from Miami count}-. Sixteenth Regiment, was organized at Richmond in May, 1 861. It was intended to serve within the limits of the State for one year, but was offered to and accepted by the Govern- ment on the same day that the news of the disaster at Bull Run reached Indianapolis, and on the 23 of July left Richmond. It was the first regiment that marched through the streets of Bal- timore after the firing upon the Sixth Massachusetts regiment in April. The terni* of service expired in May 1862, but was reorganized May 27th for three years service, but was not mustered in until August 19th. Thomas J. Lucas who was Lieutenant of the original organization succeeded to the Colonelcy upon the promotion of Colonel Hackleman to the Brigadier Generalship. The regiment left the same day it was mustered, for Kentucky, to repel the invasion of Kirby Smith, and on the 30th of August took part in the battle of Richmond. Kentuck}', losing 200 men killed and wounded, and 600 prisoners. Decem- ber the 1st it moved down the Mississippi to participate in the Vicksburg campaign, but on the 25th, with the brigade of which it was a part, was sent to Dallas, Texas, to destroy the Shreve- port railroad. January nth took part in the battle of Arkansas Post and was the first regiment to plant its colors within the fort; its loss was 77 killed and wounded. On the 30th of April the regiment marched to Port Gibson and on the following day formed a part of the reserve of Gen. Hovey's division. Later in the day it was marched forward and engaged the enemy, drawing him from the hill in front. On the 2nd day of May marched with its advance into Port Gibson. After a severe skirmish at Edwards' Station and an engagement at Black River Bridge it proceeded to the rear of Vicksburg and went into trenches on the 19th of May and participated in all the opera- tions of the siege. In the assault on the enemy's works on the 2 2d of May the Si.xteenth bore a conspicuous part, holding an important position for nearly ten hours continuous fighting. Dur- iMILlTARV IIISTOKV. 305 ing ihe siege the regiment lost sixty men killed and wounded. The regiment was transported to New Orleans where it was mounted and attached to a cavelry corps. It marclied as a part of cavalry of Banks" expedition up Red River, during which campaign it had sixteen engagements with the enem\\ It returned to New Orleans where it was mustered out June the 30th. 1865, and arrived in Indianapolis the loth of July with 365 men and officers. Seventeenth, — Miami Country was represented in companies F and K of the Seventeenth Regiment. In the former seven men were credited to Miami county. The only commissioned officer from the count}- was George F. Ha3'den, of Peru, who was commissioned First Lieutenant November 9th, 1862, and promoted Captain April 25th, 1864. In Company K there were four men credited to Miami county. Included in the number was Julius C. Kloenne, of Peru, the first captain of the compan\'. His commission -bore date of April 25th, 1S61. He was discharged December 23rd of the same year, and cashiered Januar\- 5th, 1862. The Seventeenth was organized at Camp Morton during Mav, 1861, and mustered in June 12th. the same year, for three years, with Milo S. Hascall, Colonel. The Regiment participated in the battle of Green Brier, siege of Corinth and was engaged in numerous expeditions, until Feb- ruar\-. 1863, when it was ordered to mount itself, which was done by foraging and pressing horses into the service. Armed with Spencer rifles, with which each man was equal to sixteen rebels, it moved to Hooker's Gaji. where it encountered the enemy and did effecti\e work. Other engagements in which the Seventeenth participated were at Manchester, Chattanooga, Ringgold, Chick- amauga. Thompson's Cove, Farmington, Belle Plain, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta, Ebenezer Church, near Selma, Selma, and many others. During its term of service it marched over 4,000 miles, captured o\-er 5.000 prisoners, more than 6,000 stands of arms: seventy pieces of artillery, eleven stands of col- ors, and more than 3,000 horses and mules. All this was done with a total loss in killed and wounded of but 258 men and of- ficers. Few regiments of the war had a better record. Coinpaiiv A, Ticentiet/i Re<^-iniriit. — The commissioned of- ficers of this company were: Captains: John Van Valkenburg, July 22, 1861; William B. Reyburn, December 28, 1861; Jonas Hoover, January 16, 1863: John F. Thomas, May 21. 1863; James DeLong, August i. 1864. First Lieutenants: William B. Reyburn. July 22, 1861: Jonas Hoover, December 28, 1861: C. R. Pew, January 16, 1863; James DeLong, April 16, 1863; William Trippeer, August i, 1863. Second Lieuten- ants: Jonas Hoover, July 22, 1861; Jno. F. Thomas, Decem- 306 HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. ber 28, 1861: C. R. Pew, Aujjust 30, 1862: James DeLong, January 16, 1863; W. J. Hawk, April 11, 1863, and Wallace Richardson, August i, 1864. The original enrollment of the company was 98, all of whom were credited to Miami count_\'. The total number of recruits was seventeen, sixteen of whom were from Miami county. There were eleven died while in the service, four deserted and thirtv-si.\ were unaccounted for. The only regimental officers of the Twentieth, from Miami County, were John \'anValkenburg, who was commissioned as fol- lows: Major, December 28, 1868: Lieutenant-Colonel. February 16, 1862, and Colonel, August 30, 1868: and John F. Thomas, Adjutant, December 21, 1861. The report of the x\djutant-General shows that Col. VanValkenburg was di-shonorably discharged from the service Februar\- 11, 1863. The charge was that he had writ- ten a letter in which he had expressed a disloyal sentiment.' It is claimed, however, by those best acquainted with the facts, that tlie letter was misinterpreted, and that the language used was intended to convey an entirely different meaning, and that the hasty investi- gation made by the authorities deprived the Union cause of one of its most loyal supporters. The character of a soldier is best known bv those who have fought by his side, and be it said to the credit of Col. VanValkenburg that whatever public opinion may have been, his comrades remember him as a brave, patriotic and loyal soldier. The Tifcntictli Kcginiciit was organized at Lafayette in July 1861, but \vas mustered into the service at Indianapolis on the 22d of said month. The Regiment went to Baltimore and from there sailed to Hatteras Inlet, N. C. While there it was attacked by the enemy's gunboat and forced to retreat. On the 9th of Novem- ber it embarked for Fortress Monroe, where it lay in camp till March 1862, then moved to Newport News where it participated in the engagement between the Merrimac, Cumberland and Congress. On the loth of Ma\- it moved to Norfolk and assisted in the capture of that city, after which it joined the Army of the Potomac and Peninsula, and was assigned to' Jameson's Brigade. Took part in the battle of Orchards, sustaining a loss of 144 men and officers in killed, wounded and missing. It covered the retreat of the 3d Corps in the celebrated Seven Days' Fight, participating in all the battles, especiall}- that of Glendale or Frazier's farm, in which the regiment lost heavily. The next engagement in which it took part was that of Manassas Plains, where its first colonel, William L. Brown, was killed. On the i8th of November it took part in the battle of Fredeticksburg and aided in saving from capture three Union batteries. On the 30th of April, 1863, it crossed the Rappa- hannock and took part in the battle of Chancellor.sville, capturing at MILITAKV msTORV. 307 one time the whole of the T\\eiit\-tliird Georgia, ininiberiniif more than its own men. It tlien moved willi the Army of the Potomac in pursuit of Lee and arrived at Getty-sburg in time to participate in the second day's fight. It occupied a position in Sickle's Corps, on the extreme left of the army, where it was \ery much exposed, and lost Col. Wheeler and 152 men and ollicers. It took an active part on the third and fourth days and lost heavih. It followed in piu"- suit and was again engaged at Manassa^ Gap; took part in the engagements at Locust Grove and Mine Run, after which it was reorganized at Culjiepper. The regiment cro.ssed the Raj)idaii with Grant's army, and in May, 1864, took part in the battles of the Wilderness. Todd's Tav- ern, Po River, Spottsvlvania, Tallopotanni and Cold Harbor. After this it was consolidated with the Fourteenth and Nineteenth, and \\ as aiiiiciit was organized at Lafayette the 30th of December, 1S61. and at once jiroceeded to Bardstown, Ky. In February, 1862, it marched with BuelFs Army to Nashville, and thence to Northern Alabama, after which it joined in pursuit of Bragg through Kentucky. The regiment returned to Nashville in November, where it was assigned to the 6th Division of the 14th Arm\- Corps. In December it marched toward Murfreesboro' and participated in the battle of Stone River, losing in killed, wounded and missing eighty-five. It remained at Murfreesboro' for some- time after the battle, and when the army was reorganized it was 3IO HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. assigned to the command of Major-General Crittenden. Tiae regi- ment next participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge, after which it re-enlisted as a veteran organization. The regiment joined the Atlanta campaign, and, under General Howard, took part in all the engagements and skir- mishes of said campaign, and in the battles of Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, Chattahoochie River and Peach Tree Creek, took a very conspicuous part. After the occupation of Atlanta the regiment was sent back to Chattanooga, and from there moved to Nashville, and on the 15th of December participated in that battle. In the following year went to New Orleans and from there to Texas and joined General Sheridan. Fifty-first. — The commissioned officers of Company C, Fifty- first, were: Captains — Francis M. Constant, October 11, 1S61; William Wallick, June 30, 1863; Avery B. Charpie, December 15, 1864. First Lieutenants — Joseph Y. Ballou, October 11, 1861; A. G. Murray, June 30, 1863: John C. Young, February 6, 1865. Second Lieutenants — William \\'^allick, October 18, i86i; Jasper N. Brown, June 30, 1863; A. B. Charpie, November 23, 1864; Louis P. Holman, Ma}^ i, 1865. Si.xty-one of the ninety-two enlisted men, and eight of the tifty-six recruits were credited to Miami County. William Morehead, of Peru, was assistant surgeon of the regiment. It was organized at Indianapolis on the nth of October, 1861, and was mustered in December 14, with Abel D. Streight as Colonel. The regiment joined Buell in Kentuckj^ and marched into Tennessee where it participated in the siege of Cor- inth, and after the evacuation marched to Stevenson, Ala. It next joined Buell in pursuit of Bragg through Kentuck\-, and in Decem- ber, 1864, returned to Nashville, where it joined Rosecrans" army and participated in the battle of Stone River, losing in killed, wounded and»missin<>" fortv-nine men. After the en MILITARY HISTORY. 313 then beseiyed al Kno.wilk'. The Regiment accomplished this drear\' march, ahuosl entirely destitute of clothing, blankets and shoes, and \vilhout regnlar rations or supplies of anv kind, and marched through mud and over rocks and compelled Longslreet to raise the seige. It marched with Sherman's Army to Atlanta, and under the gallant McPherson was engaged in every skirmish, battle or assault in which the army took part. The Ninety-Ninth was engaged every day in the skirmishes from the 3rd of Au- gust to the 15th. Leaving Atlanta it marched with Sherman to the sea, and on the march was eniiajied in skirmishes at Cannou- chee and Ogeechee Ri\ers. On the 15th of December the Regi- ment took part in the charge upon Fort McAllister, which, after a desperate hand to hand struggle, its garrison surrendered and opened Sherman's communications with the sea. From Savannah the Regiment marched with Sherman through the CaroHnas on to Washington City where it was mustered out with Col. Farrar in command. The Ninetv-Ninth left for the field with 900 and re- turned with 425 men and otHcers. It marched during its term of service more than 4,000 miles. Mr. Farrar, under whose command the regiment was mustered out, was one of three of the Miami Countv Volunteers who rose to the position of Colonel. While holding a Lieutenant Colonel com- mission he was much of the time in command of the regiment and on different occasions commanded a brigade. His promotions were always a reward of merit, he having filled every position to which he was called with distinguished ability. M()roaii's Raid. — In July, 1S63, a division of rebel troops under the command of General John H. Morgan, crossed the Ohio at Brandenburg and proceeded northward into Indiana. All the available regular troops had been sent to General Boyle, at that time commanding the District of Kentucky, which thus left Indiana seemingly at the mercy of the '-raiders." Governor Morton, having the utmost confidence in the patriotism of the people of his State, addressed a dispatch to the various portions of the State, requesting that companies be organized and imme- diately sent to Indianapolis. The citizens of Miami County, with their characteristic patriotism, organized two companies, and one in less than forty-eight hours, were en route to the Capital. Both companies were assigned to the One Hundred and Ninth Regiment Minute Men. The first was mustered in July 10 and was assigned to the position of F, and was otlicered as follows: Captain, Wm. B. Reyburn: First Lieutenant, Jonas Hoover, and Second Lieutenant, W. F. M. Wallick. The enrollment of the Company was ninety-five. All were mustered out on the 17th of same month except three, who deserted. Company D was mustered in on the nth of July, and consisted of sixty-live en- 314 HISTORY OF .MIAMI COUNTY. listed men, and willi the following commissioned officers: Cap- tain, Joseph Y. Ballou: First Lieutenant, Jo.ui C. Bellew, and Second Lieutenant, Ira H. Stevens. The company was mustered out with regiment on the 17th of July. The One Hundred and Ninth Regiment was composed wholl\- of minute men. The regiment was organized on the loth of July, 1863, with John R. Mahan as Colonel, and contained an aggregate of 709 rank and file. It left Indianapolis by rail on the 13th, arriving at Hamilton, Ohio, the next morning. Thence it proceeded to Cincinnati, when the emergency being past, the regiment re- turned to Indianapolis, and on the I7lh of July was mustered out. Public Sentiment in 186J-4. — In the latter days of the war opinion was divided as to the best means of suppressing the rebellion. Many were in favor of prosecuting the war, while others were in favor of conciliatorv measures. Those who favored the latter gave expression to their feelings through the resolution in the Senate, which body declared '■ that it was the imperative duty of the Chief Executive of the Nation to prDclaim, and we, therefore, and in the name of the people of Indiana, demand the establishment, as soon as prac- ticable, of an armistice to the end that a coinention of all the States mav be held for the adjustment of our national difficulties." Thev called upon Congress to use their power to provide for such a convention, but in the event that Congress should fail, declared further, " that we hereby, in the name of the people of Indiana, invite all States to meet delegates from Indiana at Nashville, Tenn., June i, 1863." This expression was indorsed by the Democracy of many counties in Indiana, and while the party was not unanimous in its support of this policy, there were many in Miami County who believed such a course would restore the Union and save much suffering and bloodshed. The Democrac\- of this as well as other counties of the State, was opposed to the war policy of the Administration, and did not hesitate to express their disapproval either on the slump or through the press. In response to this freedom of expression. Brig. -Gen. Hascall, Commander of the District of Indiana, issued an order, known as " Order No. 9." in which he declares that editors of newspapers and public speakers who oppose the war policy of the Administration are as much opposed to the government and therefore liable to arrest. This order was published April 25, 1863, and during the time it was in effect caused much e.xcitement and bitter feeling. It was considered by many to be unconstitutional, believing that the right of the people to criticize all public acts is inherent. The Democrats of Miami County met in convention soon after this ^ MILITARY HISTORY. 317 order was issued, and, among other resolutions, adopted the following: '■'■ licsolvcd, That the will of the people is the foundation of all free government, and that free thought, free speech, and a free jiress are inherent and constitutional rights of the people and that no military officer, whether in time of peace or war, has a right to restrain the people from discussing the measures and policy of their servants and to decide upon the wisdom and expedienc}' of their acts." So unpopular had this order become that Gov. Morton, who was always quick to discern the effect of any movement by the military authorities, advised that it be rescinded, which was done June 6, 1863. /;/ t/ic Twelfth Cavalry {i2y~) Hcgimoit, Miami County was represented in two companies, viz. : L and M. The for- mer consisted of loo originall)' enlisted men, all from Miami County, and ten recruits. There were eleven killed and two de- serted. The commissioned officers of Compan\' L were: Cap- tain, Ethan E. Thornton, January '], 1862; First Lieutenants, J. Y. Ballou, January 7, 1864, and George N. Osgood, Ma}' i, 1865; Second Lieutenants, G. N. Osgood, January 7, 1S64; J. M. Ilouk, May i, 1865, and James Highland, July i, 1865. Com- panv M had but one commissioned officer from Miami County, Joseph Y. Ballou, Captain, May i, 1865. In this companv there were twenty-two enlisted men from said county. Six of those died in the service. The regimental officers from the county were: Orris Blake, Major, March i, 1864, and William Pew, Adjutant, May 8, 1865. The Twelfth Cavalry (127) Regiment, was organized at Kendall ville on the ist of March, 1864, with Edward Anderson as Colonel. But six companies were mounted. The regiment was ordered to Nashville, Tenn., and after a few weeks' instructions proceeded to Huntsville, Ala., the mounted portion under Col. Reed and the dismounted portion under Col. Anderson. Col. Anderson was assigned to the command of the railroad defenses from Decatur to Point Rock, and the district around Huntsville. The mounted companies had numerous skirmishes with the guerrilla bands that infested that region. In September, 1864, the regiment was ordered to Tullahoma, Tenn., to garrison that post, and while there Col. Anderson was ordered to Indiana for special service, and in his absence Major Blake, of Peru, was assigned to the command of the post. While stationed there the regiment had several skirmishes with the command of Gen. Forrest. Leaving Tullahoma the regi- ment proceeded to Murfreesboro and participated in the battle of Wilkinson's Pike and Overall's Creek, and was employed in several skirmishes in defense of Murfreesboro. The regiment 3l8 HISTORY OF MIAJII COUNTY. went into winter quarters, where it remained until February II, 1865, when it was ordered to New Orleans and from thence to Mobile Bay where it participated in the operations against the forts and defences of Mobile. After the fall of Mobile, the regiment under command of Maj. Wm. H. Calkins participated in a raid of over 800 miles through Alabama, Georgia, to Col- umbus, Mississippi. Headquarters were changed to Grenada, from which detachments of the regiment were sent to various places to protect government propert}-. The regiment was mus- tered out of the service at Vicksburg, Nov. 10, 1865. * In the One Hundred and Twentv-Eig/ith (according to the Adjutant-General's report ), there were four men from Aliami County, viz.: Geo. S. Evans, Jas. Duncan and Israel Leedy, privates, and Richard K. Miller, who was commissioned Captain of Compan}- I, March 3, 1864; Adjutant, December 3, 1863: Major, May i, 1865, and Lieutenant Colonel, June i, 1865. Company K of the One Hundred and Thirt\'-Fourth (lOO da^-s), was composed to a large extent of Miami county men. The company was mustered in May 24, 1864. The only com- missioned officers of said company from the county were Alex- ander Jamison and Isaac J. C. Guv, Second Lieutenants. Company A One Hundred and Thirtv-Eighth ( 100 daysj, consisted of eighty-one enlisted men, all from Miami county. The company was mustered in May 27, 1864, and was officered as follows: Captain, Jonas Hoover, May 7, 1864: First Lieutenant, Wesley Wallick, May 7. 1S64. and IIenr\- D. Moore. May 7, 1864. " " Each of these regiments was assigned to dut\' along the line of Nashville & Chattanooga. Tennessee & Alabama, and Memphis & Charleston railroads, which was the onh' service performed by them. The One Hundred and Fifty-First. — Under the President's last call, issued December 19, 1864, for three thousand troops, Miami count\' responded with no fewer than three hundred men. These were assigned to the One Hundred and Fift\-First and One Hundred and Fifty-Fifth regiments, for one years' service. Companies C and D of the 151st were made up almost exclu- sively of Miami county men, while in Companies H and I there were as many as ten of Miami count\'s veterans. Com- pany C was officered as follows: Captain, William A. Nichols; First Lieut. I. J. C. Guy, and Second Lieut. William H. Vance. Of the ninety-nine originall)- enlisted, five were killed and three deserted. The commissioned officers of Company D were : Cap- tain. Nathan Stephens: First Lieutenants, J. H. Morgan and John B. Winters, and Second Lieutenants, Andrew J. Haynes, Thomas R. Ellis, and Charles H. Gould. There was lost in killed ten, and MILITARY HISTORY. 319 one bv desertion. John H. Ream, C.iptain of Company H, was the only commissioned officer of said company from Miami county. The One Hundred and Fifty-First was composed of com- panies raised in the Ninth Congressional District, and was organ- ized at Indianapolis March 3, 1865, with Joshua Healy as Colonel. On the 6th of March left for Naslnille. It moyed on the 14th to Tullahoma, where it remained on duty until June 14th, when it returned to Nashyille. There it did post and garrison duty until the 19th of September, 1865, when it was mustered out of the seryice. Compan/ K of the 155th was composed largely of Miami county men, and was officered by Henry D. Moore, Captain; J. H. Jamison, First Lieutenant, and James Bell, Second Lieutenant. Eight of the company deserted. The regimental officers from this county were John M. Wilson, Colonel; John W. Smith, Surgeon; Joseph A. Chandler and Martin B. Arnold, Assistant Surgeons. The regi- ment was organized at Indianapolis April 18, 1865. It left for Wasliington the latter part of the mouth and from there was sent to Alexandria and assigned to the proyisional brigade of the Third Diyision of the Ninth Army Corps. On the 3d of May it was transferred to Dover, at which place the companies were detached iind sent to Centeryille, Wilmington, Del., and Salisburg, Maryland. On the return to the regiment of two of these companies a railroad accident occurred by which a number were seriously injured. The regiment was mustered out at Dover, Delaware, August 4, 1865. Col. J. M. Wilson, the commander of the last regiment in which Miami county was represented, as well as the first company to the front, deserves a leading place in the militaiy histor}' of Miami county. He was by profession a lawyer, and while he pre- ferred civil to military life, he never hesitated to lay aside the duties of the former for the latter when he believed his country was in danger. While entering upon a professional career with much promise, he abandoned it to lead a company against the forces of Santa Anna. At the close of the war with Mexico he returned to the practice of his profession, only to again relinquish it at the first call for assistance. For this unselfish devotion to his country he deserves a pla.ce in the heart of every loyal citizen. The Fourteenth Baltcrv of Lisfht Artillery was recruited mainly in Wabash, Huntington, Miami and Fayette Counties dur- ing the winter of 1861-2, and was mustered into the service in March, 1862, with M. H. Kidd, of Wabash, captain. It was com- posed of 138 enlisted men, 85 recruits and 68 re-enlisted veterans, making a total enrollment of 291. Twent\--two were citizens of Miami County. Of this number twenty-five died and thirty-eight deserted. Henry C. Loveland. of Peru, was commissioned Second- Lieutenant January 20, 1862, and died at Bethel, Tenn., June 14, 1862. The tribute of respect to his memory by the members of 320 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. his section shows the universal esteem in whicli he was held h\' his comrades. The battery left Indianapolis for St. Louis on the nth of April, 1862, and thence to Pittsbury Landing. It next proceeded to Corinth where it participated in the siege of that place; thence to Jackson and Lexington, Miss., where a section of the batterv, con- sisting oi thirty men, were captured by Forrest's cavalry. After spending the greater part of 1863 in Tennessee, it embarked for Vicksburg, and from thence, with a force under General Sherman, to Meridian, Miss., and participated in that famous raid. After returning to Vicksburg, Captain Kidd was promoted Major of the Eleventh Cavalry, and was succeeded as Captain by F. W. Morse. At Gunport, Miss., the batterv lost two pieces of artillery and live men killed or wounded. On the 15th and i6th of December it par- ticipated in the battle before Nashville. Its last engagement was in the operations against Mobile, after which it marched to Mont- gomery, Ala., where it was mustered out August 13, 1865. hidiana Legion. — The following companies of the Indiana Leitevenson, W. H. died Folly Island, Oct. 14, 1803. Warner, .John F., killed at Rich Mountain, .July 11, 1861. Watson, Robert, died at Folly Island, Nov. 3, 1803. Widour, Francis, died at Clarksburg, Va., Aug. 6, 1861. COMPANY A, THIRTEENTH UK-ORGANIZED. <'oromster, Alex., killed at Ft. Fisher, .Jan. in, 1865. Hamilton, Daniel, died in Andersonville Prison, Dec. 9, 1864. Marquiss, .1. JI., died of wounds received near Peters! lurjr, .July 2, 1864. McQuiston, J. C, died in Andersonville Prison, Aug. 30, 1864. COMPANY F, SIXTEENTH REUIMKXT (THREE YE.VRS). Braudorn, Abraham, died of wounds, .July 5, 1863. Brooks, Isaiah, died at Indianapolis, .July 11. 1863. Bi'Miictt, Donald W., died of wounds: Sejitember 0, 1802. Bucklev William P.. killed at Richmond, Ky., Aug 30, 1862. Colay, .Jesse P., died at ludianaiiolis. Nov. 20, 1862. Gerrard, David I)., died at Vicksburg, .Jan. 28, 1863. Garrett, Salathiel, died of wounds, April ITi, 1864. House, Daniel, died at Indianapolis, Nov. 2, 1862. Jav, Alfred, died .MiUikeu Bend, April 27, 1803. Jones, Daniel W., died at Millikcn Bend, April 15, 1863. Jester, Madison, died at St. JjOuis, April 8, 1803. Johnson, William, killed Mansliehl, La., April 8, 1804. Keefe, James, killed JIanstield, La., April 8, 1804. I>ee, ,\ndrew .1., died at St. Louis, July 23, 1803. Lanhorn, Burton, died at Milliken's Bend, May 20, 1863. McDonald, William A., died at Millken's Bend, March 30, 1863. Pond, Josiah, died at St. Louis, June 28, 1803. Robinson, Andrew, died at Vicksburg, June 28, 1803. Kidde, Darius A., died at .Milliken's iSend, April 8, 1863. Sloan, Willi.am, killed at Mansfield, April 8, 1864. Seger, Florian, died at Donaldsville, May 11, 1804. Payne, Aaron E, died at New Orleau.s, Ajiril 18, 1864. Vaughn, Jeremiah M., died at Young's Point, Feb. 23, 1863. Venis, Henry, died of wounds, Sept. 12, 1862. COMPANY K, SEVENTEENTH REGIMENT. Jones, Newton, died at Holing, Ky., Sept. 1862. COMP.VNY A, TWENTIETH REGIMENT (THREE YE.\RS). Thomas, John F., killed May 12, 1864. Ash, .\mos T)., killed at Gettj'sburg. Brownlee. David P.. killed at Gettysburg. Cook, Bciij. F., died at Washington, July 4, 1864. Irviii, Henry, died at City Point, Va. Robinson, (ieorge W., died at Alexandria, March 2.'), 1864. Smith, Nicholas J., killed at Oak Grove, Va., June 25, 1862. 322 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Seger, John M., killed at Gettysburg. Smith, Charles. W., killed at Gettysburg. Stowe, George W., killed at C'hickahoniiny. Tice, Jno. M., killed at (iettysburg. Wright, Daniel G., killed probably at Gettysburg. COMPANY n, TWKNTY-NtNTH REGIMENT (THREE YE.\US). Reese, Thomas H., died in Libby Prison. Goodbo, .Jocko, died at Louisville, JIarch 4, 1864. Killian, .John, killed at ChiikamauEra, Sept. 19, 1803. MeXair, .James, died at Camp Wood, Ky., .Jan. 14, 1862. McCain, .James, died at Nashville, April 18, 1864. Potter, Theron, died at Nashville, March 1862. Rider, Leonard, wounded at Chickaniauga, died Nov. 3, 1863. Roccoon, Jackson, died at Nashville, 1865. COMPANY A, EIGHTH C.VVALRY (39th). Hicks Abraham, killed at Stone River. Renbo Wm., died at Chattanooga, Sept 29, 1863. Bigle)', James L. died of disease. Clark, Jno. H., Died at Nashville, Dec. 4, 1863. Harvey, Wm., killed at Shiloh, April, 1862. Hicks, Patrick, died at Evansville. July o, 1862. Jackson, Jno,, died of wounds at Sliiloh, April 9, 1862. Jones, William W., killed at Stone River. Landrum, Rufus, died Lock wood, Geo. W.. died April 1862. Pearson, Perry D., died Pontious, Benj., killed at Stone River, Dec. 31, 1862. Powell, Wm. B., died Repp, Christopher, died Taylor, Geo. I., killed at Stone River, Dec 31, 1862. Utter, Thomas Q., died Dec. 26, 1864. COn'ANY M. EIGHTH CAVALRY (39TH). Cate, JIartin, killed at Black River, March 16, 1865. Raynor, Alfred, killed at Black River, March 16, 1865. Shari>, llenrv, died at Camp Webster, Tenn., Oct. 15. 1864. Swengle, Sam., killed at Black l{iver, March 16, 1865. Thomas, Robert S., died at Nashville, June 16, 1865. Wilkinson, F. M., died at Nashville, June 23, 1864. COMPAN-Y n, FORTIETH REGIMENT (THREE YEARS.) Button, Jno. T., died Dec. 6, 1864. Brower, Jeremiah, killed at Franklin, Nov. 30, 1864. Thompson, Wm. I>.,died .at Evansville, Aus. 14, 1862. Atchison, Robt, killed at Stone River. DecC 31, 1862. Belew, Joseph A. killed at Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, 1864. Bank, J. H., killed at Mission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863. Beard, (ieo. H., died of wounds, ilission Ridge. Cook, C. 31., died at Nashville, June 5, 1863. "' Collins, Onesmus, killed at Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, 1864. Doud, Arthur, killed .at Kenesaw Mountain, June 27. 1864. Everhart, Lewis II., killed at Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, 1868. Hahn, Jno., died of wounds, Nov. 29, 1S63. Hide, Austin D., killed at Shiloh, April 1.5, 1862. Koff, Fred, died of wounds, April 13, 1864. Lesley, Jlorris, killed at Jlission Ridge, Nov. 25, 1863. MIAMI COUNTY S DEAD. 323 Miller, Milton, killed at Stoup Kiver, Dec. 31, 18fi2. Mote, Eli, killed at Mission Kidse, Nov. 25, 18G3. Null, .Ino. H., died at Tusrumliia, Ala., June 23, 1862. Ramsey, David, died Oct. 20, ISO.!. Smith, Jno. W., died at Nashville, Dec. 5, 1864. Stanley, Sanford, died of wounds, probably at Stone l{iver. Watter.s, .James, killed at Kenesaw, June 27, 1864. Walliui'-, J., killed at Stone Kiver, Dec. 30, 1863. AVooley, Jno., killed at Kenesaw, June 27, 1864. COMr.VNY G, FIFTY-FinsT KKRIMKXT (THUEE YE.^RS). Baker, Robt., died at Sanford, Kv., Feb. 19, 1863. Crooks, William, died at Xashviile. Sept. 18, 1863. Dyer, Charles, died at Lebanon, Kv.. Feb. IS), 1862. Ewiiij;-, Thomas, died at Nashville, March 30, 1862. Falev, 'I'liomas, died at Houlini: Green, Sejit. 17, 1863. Jami""s, Martin V. B., died at I'eru, Aug. I.'i, 1863. Sullivan, Geor,!;e, died at Peru July 10, 1864. rO>n».\NV f, KIlillTY-SEVEKTII UKiil.MENT (THREE YE.\Us). Russell, Burr, died of wounds, Nov. 39, 1863. Demuth, Jno., killed Au.;;. 22. 1864. Brown. Elisha, killed at Chickamau.sa, Sc))!. 1863. Brown. Martin \'. died at Cliattauooira, Nov. 22, 1863. Clendenin, Andrew P., died at Dowd's Island, April 3, 18G5. Derick, Georsre, died at Nashville, Manh 6, 1863. Edward, Sylvester, died of wounds, at Chattanooga, Oct. 11, 1863. Foss, James G., died at Chattanooga, Oct. 11, 1863. Glaze Geo., died at Chattanooga, Nov. 8. 1863. Hart, Geo., died at Lebanon, Ky., Feb. 21,1863. Hawyer, "\Vm. IL, died of wounds, liiclnuoud, Va., Dec. 15, 1863. Kennedy, Joe J., died at (Jallaiin, Nov. 23, 1862. Keijler, "Jno., died at Hinirold. Ga., April 12, 1S64. Lord, \Vm. J., died at l.ouisxille. Dec. 19, 18(53. Jliirine, Asa W., Waldon Ridge, Oct. 1863. ^larshall, Herman, died of wounds at Nasliville, Dec. 14, 1863. Newby, Isaiah J, died of wounds at Chattanooga, Oct. 17, 1868. Perkins, Ithamer, died at Gallatin, Tenn., Nov. 12, 1862. Petty, Miles C, killed at Chickamauga, Sept. 20, 1803. Reese, Jno., died at (Tallatin, Teun., Jan. 10, 1H6;(. Saxon, Wm. J., died at (Gallatin, Tenn., Dec. 14, 1863. Waller, Geo. F., died at Bowling (Jreeu, Dec. 33, 1863. \N'icker, \\'m., killed at Chickamauga, Sept. 20, 1863. Woolf, Jacob, died at Triune, Tenn., May 2, 1863. lOMI'AXY D, NIXETY-NIXTII UE«rMEXT (XIIKEE YE.\RS). Connett. Jno. F., died at Memiihis, Nov. 33, 1862. IlitsnuUer, Samuel, died at Memiihis, Nov. 23, 1862. Reamer, Wm., died at Memiihis, Sept. 2o, 1863. Re.amer, Jesse, died at Jlemphis, April li, 1863. Snider, Reuben, died at Fort Fowler, March 4, 1863. roMl'AXY I, NrXETY-XIXTII REGIMENT (THREE YEARS). Albaugh, Daniel, died at Indianapolis, Nov. 7, 1862. McGraw, Francis .M, killed at Jackson Miss., July 11, 1863. Studebaker, Andrew, died at Louisville, Feb. 4, 1865. Freermood, Geo., died of wounds, Aug. 5, 1864. Garsar, Jno., died at Scottsboro, Ala., Feb. 22, 1864. 324 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Sullivan, Jefferson, died at Fort Fowler, April, 1863. Wilson, Leander, died at Memphis, Oct. 11, 1863. Weeks, Jnc, killed near Atlanta, July 28, 1864. COMPAKY L, TWELFTH CAVALRY, (OSE HUNDRED .\XD TWENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT, TFIREE YEARS). Houk, Johnson 51., died at Lojiansport, May 27, 1865. Blackburn, Jno. died at Murfreesboro, .Jan. 3, 1865. Burnett, Sam M., died at Jeffersonville, Feb. 15, 1865. Burk, Jno. W., died at Mobile, May 6, 1865. Benner, Samuel, died at Montsomen,-, June 16, 1865. Correll, Zacharas, died at Kendallvirie, April 7, 1864. Clark, Samuel L., died at Goshen, March 4, 1864. Ellison, Pleasant, died at Xew Orleans, April 16, 1865. Geiger, Geo. W., died at New All)any, Jan. 10, 186.5. Karr, Jno., died at Point Rock Kidsie. May 23, 1864. Wilson, Geo. W., died at Kendallville, M;irch 7, 1865. CO^rPAXY M, TWELFTH CAVALRY, (ONE HUNDRED .\ND TWENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT, THREE years). Goodwin, Geo. W., died at Kendall. March 31, 1864. Laux, Ephram K., died at New Orleans, Mav 21, 1865. Shenkle, Wm., died at Huntsville, July 10, 1864. Wilcox, Martin, died at Madison, Ala., June 14, 1864. / Wilco.x, Ezra, died at Nashville, Feb. 15, 1865. Willey, Jno., died at Camp Anderson, .Jan. 21, 1864. COMP.VNY C, ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIRST REGIMENT (ONE YEAK). King, Stephen A., died at Nashville, March 2.5, 1805. Smith, Adam W., died at Nashville, July 23, 1865. COMPANY D, ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIRST REGIMENT (ONE YEAR). Bell, Jno. C, died at Nashville, June 24, 1865. Crider, Ephrian L., died at TuUahoma, May 31, 1865. Colemau, Geo. W., died at Nashville, .June 1, 186.5. Calvin, Jno. V., died at Mexico, March 4, 186.5. Harmon, David, died at Indianapolis, Feb. 20, 1865. Hakins, Thomas W., died at Nashville. July .5, 1865. Hoover, Mark R., died at Nashville, April 1, 186.5. Packard, Noah F., died at Nashville, July 25, 1865. Shanaberger, Geo. F., died at Tullahonia, Mav 1, 186.5. Whitney, Geo. W., died at Nashville, April 21, 1865. FOURTEENTH BATTERY, LIGHT -UlTILLERY. Loveland, Henry C, died at Bethel, Tenn., June 14, 1862. Hale, Ephrain, died at home, Oct. 26, 1863. TWENTY-FIRST BATTERY, LIGHT ARTILERY. Montgomery, Wm. A., died at Lexington, Dec 28, 1862. Despennet, Wm. S., died at Columbia, May 21, 1864. Sullivan, A. W., died at Columbia, June 4, 1864. MISCELI..\NEOUS. Cole. Ethan, died of wounds, Aug. 9, 1864. Wilson. Taylor, died at Jlemjihis, Oct. 28, 1862. Hullinger, Jacob, died at Washington, I). C, Feb. 9, 1865. Note.— The foregoioK list is probably incomplete, as there are many nnaccoimted for in the official reports, who were no doubt kiUed. DRAFTS. 325 Drafts. — The first draft occurred in Indiana on October 6, 1862. This was held under the President's third call for troops dated August 4, 1862, asking for 300,000 soldiers. The enroll- ment for this draft was made September 19 and at that time Miami county was credited with a total militia force of 2844. To be deducted from this were 405 exempts and 118 conscien- tiously opposed to bearing arms, leaving 2,321 subject to the draft. At that time the County was credited with having fur- nished a total of 1,065 volunteers, of which 996 were then in the service. When this draft was ordered Miami county lacked 98 men of having tilled her quota, distributed among the town- ships as follows: Jefferson, 2; Perry, 29; Union, 13; Richland, 10; Washington, 11; Clay, 24; Harrison, 9. Under the call of October 17, 1863, for 300,000 men the quota for Miami was 196. The calls of February i, March 14, and July 18, 1864, required Miami county to furnish 1,056 in addition to those already given. To offset this the countv was credited with S39 new volunteer recruits, 152 veterans and 39 by draft, a total of 1,030. This left a total of 21 men yet due from the county which, of course, were raised. The President's last call for troops was issued December 19, 1864, demanding 300,000 more troops. Miami county's quota under this call was 337. All efforts to raise troops in Indiana were abandoned on the 14th of April, 1865, and at that date the count}- was credited with the following to offset this last call: New volun- teer recruits 281, veterans 11, and by draft 45: thus just balanc- ing the account. This makes a grand total of men furnished by Miami county for the war, of 2,624. ^^ course there were not that many different men in the war, for some of them enlisted two and three times, and were counted for each enlist- ment. It is probable that not more than 2,200 or 2,300 were ever actually sent out from the countv. Bounty and Relief. — During the first }ear of the war the Con- gress passed an act authorizing the payment of $roo to volunteers enlisting for three years. This was followed by numerous orders, during the years 1863 and 1864, from the adjutant-general's office authorizing the payment of bounties ranging from $100 to $400, depending to some extent on the term of service. The inequality of the amount paid for the same term of service caused great dis- satisfaction. But it was claimed by the aiuhorities that the exi- gencies and demands of the service necessitated it and it could not be avoided. In addition to the bounties paid by the Government, large and extravagant local bounties were paid. Under the call of August, 1862. the Board of Commissioners, at a meeting held September 8, appropriated ^10,000, which was placed in the hands of E. H. Siiirk 326 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. and John A. Graham, to be paid out in sums of $25 to each person that had enlisted or should enlist on or before the 15th of said month. Other bounties, not exceeding in amount $50, were paid during the year 1863. There was expended by the County for bounties the following amounts : Jliami Countr $ ISO.o.'iO 00 Peru Township ir),0UO 00 .lefferson Township 8.000 00 Perry •' Tj.OOO 00 Union " 4,000 00 Richland " 5,000 00 Erie " -i.OOO (10 Butler " • 1(1.0110 00 Washington " Ki.iKlO 00 Pipe Creek " ■J.dllO (K) Deer Creek " 14,(J00 00 Clav " 4.1100 00 Harrison " 4.000 00 .Jackson " 4,(HK) 00 Allen " 4.000 00 Peru City I.KJO 00 Total f 281,6.50 00 These amounts were paid to stimulate enlisting and avoid the drafts under the calls of July i8th and December 19th, 1864. Under the former call the Board, at a special session held October ID, offered the bounty of $300 for the necessary number of recruits to fill the County's quota. This quota had scarcely been filled until a call for 300,000 additional recruits was issued. The county had seemingh' been taxed to its utmost, but with the zeal that had characterized the actions of the people of the county during the war, another effort was made. Petitions were circulated in the various townships in the county praying the Board of Commission- ers to offer an additional bounty of $500. This was granted at a meeting held January 24, 1865. Subjoined to this order is a pro- test of each County Commissioner, acting in the capacity of a pri- vate citizens, which states that they wish it to be known to poster- ity that it was their judgment that such action was impolitic and inexpedient, but granted the prayer of the petitioners because a majority of tax-payers of the count\' demanded said appropriation. A few months of experience in the field showed how ilh-pre- pared the Government was to provide the army with the necessary comforts for such a life. The inadequate .supply of clothing, such as woolen underwear, mittens, shoes, etc., was complained of b}' the soldiers. For the purpose of providing these necessities, the State Sanitary Commission was organized. Auxiliary societies were organized in each County, and tributary to these societies were organizations in the towns and townships. The County Society in Miami, like most other counties of the State, was officered and BOUNTY AND RELIEF. 327 managed bv the patriotic women who, with the characteristic ten- derness of their sex, made a generous response to ever}- call to alleviate the suffering of the soldiers in the field and hospitals. One of the first relief committees consisted of Mrs. Wm. Ream, Mrs. D. R. Bearss, Mrs. W. W. Constant, Mrs. E. M. Talbot. Mrs. A. H. Tracv was Treasurer, Mrs. S. S. Benhan, Secretary, and Mrs. W. F. Hauk, President. These are the names of but few of the many noble women of the county who were prominent in this movement. The Societ^• was organized in October, 1861, and in March. 1S64, the following report was made at the State Sani- tary con\-ention, held at Indianapolis, which speaks for the generos- itv of the noble-hearted and patriotic women of Miami County. Shipped November, 1861. stores valued at $ 225 00 " January, 1862, " " " 90 00 " February, " " " " 1,600 (lO " March, ' " " " " 50 00 " April, " " " " 150 00 " Jlay, " " " " 400 00 " Auji-HSt, " •' " " 400 00 " March. 1863, " " '• 857 00 " .June. " " " " 1,000 00 " .A.uu'ust. " " " " 358 00 " October, " " " " 62 00 " November. " " " " 116 00 " December, " " " " 151 00 " January, 1864, " " " 65 00 " Februarv, " " " " 40 00 To soldiers' faiiiilies 100 00 Cash in tresusury 165 00 Total !{;5,323 GO The above is only a partial report of the supplies furnished. Greater care than that of providing the soldiers in the field with what the Government had failed to suppl}' was the relief of the destitute families of the soldiers. Many poor men volun- teered to defend their countrv, whose families were dependent upon their daily earning for support, while others left the farm at seed time, and winter came and found them without the nec- essarv subsistence. Few counties more readil}' and liberallv con- tributed to the relief of the families of their soldiers than did Miami, as mav be seen from the following statement: Relief furnished bv Coimty $29,890.86 Relief furnished by ;U1 the Townships 15,000.00 Jliscellaneous 4,800.00 Total * 149,690.86 Total number of beneficiaries 2,303 The above amount, added to the whole amount paid by the county for bounty, shows a total amount paid by the county for bounty and relief, $331,340.86. This amount does not include 328 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. the various sums contribufed by private individuals nor the Sol- diers' Aid Society. CHAPTER V. Bench and Bar — Early Courts — First Judges — -Destruc- tion OF Records — Early Cases — Early Attorneys — Courts Under the New Constitution — Official Seal — Important Criminal Trials — L.\ter Judges — Roll of Attorneys, Etc. THE measure of a people's civilization can always be determ- ined by the condition of its judiciary. Tyrants have but little use for courts, and in proportion to the decrease of their power the reign of incorrupt judges is asserted. Throughout the entire range of governments, from the most tyranical to the most leni- ent and indulgent, can be traced the progress and expansion of courts of justice. Americans being the freest of people have a right to expect most of their courts, and, as a rule, their ex- pectations are not in vain. Nearly all our laws are subject to review by our judicial tribunals, and our everv interest is in- trusted to their care. The prompt and speedv administration of justice is the safe-guard of our liberties and the promoter of our National moralitv. The transactions of courts in anv communitv make an im- portant item in its history. In Miami Countv the earlv proceed- ings at the bar of justice are unfortunatelv much obscured and mostly destroyed. There is scarcely a record of any kind that antedates the destruction of the court house by fire in March, 1843. Whatever is here given relating to a time prior to that is founded almost whollv upon the hearsav evidence, a kind of evidence that is rarely admitted as proofs in courts. There are but few persons now living who were residents of the County in 1834, ^^^ '^'^^^ of 'ts organization, and of those there are not more than three or four who can bear testimony concerning the earliest courts. It is said that the first term of the circuit court held in Miami County was in September, 1834, at Miamisport. The pre- siding judge was Gustavus Everts, of La Porte. As Indiana courts were then organized, there were two' associate judges, whose duty it was to assist in conducting the business. As a matter of fact thev did but little trood towards furthering the BENCH AND BAR. 329 ends of justice, as the_\' nearly always gave tlieir assent to whatever opinion the president judge announced. The cases where they dissented were very few and tlien of but little importance. About their only advantage was in expediting business by disposing of probate and other less important mat- ters. It is not now definitely known who the first associate judges were, but it is probable that George S. Fenimore and Jacob Wilkinson were; at least it is certain thev were in 1836, and no elections occurred between the time when the court first assembled and the above date. But the\' may have been first elected in 1836. If that is the case, their predecessors were appointed by the Governor and are not now known. Samuel C. Sample was prosecuting attorney, Benjamin H. Scott clerk, and Jacob Linzee, sheriff. Probably the usual routine of early courts prevailed, leaving little to be imagined bevond the primitiveness of the situation. Among the early attorneys are said to have been Charles Ewing, David H. Colerick and Henrv Cooper, of Fort Wayne; Henry Chase, John W. and Williamson Wright and Benj. Hurst, of Logansport. All these became prominent among the attorneys of Northern Indiana except the last, and at least three, Ewing, Chase and John W. Wright, became circuit judges. Colerick was one of the most irresistable of advocates. The second term was held in March, 1835, at Tarkington's Tavern, on the Northeast corner of Main and Miami streets, in Peru, and the third at the house of Hugh Peoples, also a log tavern that stood near the corner of Cass and Second streets. Of this, John A. Graham has written: "The room in which the term of the court last named was held was not over eighteen feet square. The judge, prosecutor, clerk and attorneys sat around a table near the North wall, and parties litigant and spectators stood wherever they found convenient places in the room and about the door outside. The indictments were generally for small infractions of the law, such as betting on shooting matches, selling whisky without license, and indulging in the innocent amusement of euchre or old sledge at twenty- five cents a corner." The judicial district over which Judge Everts then presided was the Eighth, and was composed of the counties of Cass, Miami, Wabash, Huntington, Allen, LaGrange, Elkhart, St. Joseph and La Porte. Bj- act of February 4, 1836, the following were attached to and made a part of that circuit: Porter, Marshall, Fulton, Kosciusko, Noble and Adams. The District comprises the best portion of Indiana and was an exceptionally large one even for that da\'. Judge Everts was an able and leading lawyer of this por- 330 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. tion of the State, and Judge Biddle thus speaks of him : . " He was a lawyer of great tact and fine address; extreme!}' astute in the management of witnesses and facts; not remarkably studious nor deepl}- learned in the law. In cases that moved emotion, or touched passion, or appealed to the feelings which stir our com- mon nature, he was very powerful — far more successful than when he attempted to convince the understanding. His peculiar talent made him personally very popular. He was indeed a very prince of good fellows." The immediate successor of Judge Everts was Samuel C. Sample. He held but one term in his county, in the fall of 1836. Judge Sample was a man of no ordinary ability, but was plain and practical in all his acts. He represented his district in Con- gress, and was always at his post among the workingmen of that body. At the bar, and as presiding judge of the Circuit Courts, he stood high among the most efficient and able practi- titioners, and one of the purest judges that has graced the bench. His person was fine, his head and forehead large, and hair dark. Charles W. Ewing came upon the bench as president judge of the Eighth Judicial Circuit, the immediate successor of Judge Sample. His associates were the same as those who sat with Judge Sample, with Thomas Johnson, prosecuting attorney. Judge Ewing was a lawyer of superior ability, and stood high in the profession, locally and generally. As a judge, he was ready in grasping facts pertinent to the issues involved, and sel- dom committed an error in disposing of questions submitted to him for consideration. He was deservedly popular, both as lawyer and judge, and his untimely taking off was a source of regret to all with whom he was acquainted. His term of service as judge of the Miami Circuit Court closed with the March term, 1839. He died by his own hand on the 9th of January, 1843, in the meridian of his life and usefulness. Henry Chase, a resident of Logansport, became the fourth Circuit Judge in line of succession upon the Miami County bench. He was appointed August 20, 1829, b}- David Wallace, Gov- ernor, during the interim preceding the session of the Legisla- ture of 1839-40, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Ewing. Another has said of him: "He was a close and ready pleader, seldom or never asking for time to prepare his papers: had a clear, logical mind and great force of char- acter. As a judge he was dignified, self-reliant and unequivocal, making no mistakes in the enunciation of his decisions; his style brief yet exhaustive." John W. Wright was elected president Judge of the Eighth Judicial Circuit b\- the Legislature of 1839-40, the circuit being BENCH AND BAR. 33 I composed of the same counties as when Judge Chase was ap- pointed, excepting that Carroll County was added. He was a man of peculiar make-up; not a profound lawyer, but ready in arriving at conclusions and prompt in announcing them. During his term of service the amount of business that came up for his consideration was uiiusualh- large, and vet few appeals were taken from his decisions, which, though not always satisfactory', were generally concurred in by the parties litigant. It was during Judge Wright's term that the court house was destroyed by hre, as before stated, and with it all the court records up to that time were destroved. To alleviate in some measure the trouble that would naturally follow from the de- struction of important judgments of the court, the Legislature not long after passed a law to provide for their restoration. The title, preamble and first section of this act are here given. Ax Act For the Bkmvfit of Persons Who are Likely to Suffer by the Des- TRITCTIO.N (IK THE RECORDS OF MlAMI t'OUNTY BY FiRE. W/teredK, On tlie — day of , 1843, the court house iu the Couuty of Miami was burned and all the records of the Probate and Circuit Courts and the liecorder's Office destroyed; and, Wliei-ea.i, Many persons are affected by the destruction of the records aforesaid. Section 1. Jle it Emirted hy the General AuMmhlij of the State of Tndianii, Tliat for the purpose of perpetuatinii; testimony of, or rchttinir to any judjrments, orders, decrees, or otlier proceedinirs of tlie Probate or Circuit Courts of the County of Miami, had jirevious to the destruction of the records thereof, and for the purpose of iierpetuatiusr testimony coiicerninjr, of, or relating to, any patents, deeds, mort- gages, bills of sale, wills, inventories, powers of attorney, or other instruments of writing of record in the books of the Recorder of said county and destroyed as aforesaid, M. W. Seely, of said county, is hereby appointed a commissioner to receive evidence of and concerning any such judgments, orders, decrees, or other proceedings of said Probate and Circviit Courts, and in relation to any patent, deed, will, bill of sale, mortgage, power of attorney, inventory, or other instrument in writing by any person who may wish to have such testimony perpetuated. The commissioner, M. W. Seely, appointed by this act, was at that time a resident attorney of Peru. There was but little w6rk done bv this commissioner, and the restored records are very brief concerning the prior transactions of the courts. One thing that is of some interest recorded in this volume is the will of Francis Godfroy, the last chief of the Miami tribe of Indians. The manner in which he disposes of his large property shows that he was a man of no ordinary ability. His several wives are provided for with seeming impartialit}-. The absence of the early records is a matter of regret as it prevents the narration of many important occurrences that took place in the early days of the county's history, while peo- ple were seeking justice. From the early commissioner's record which was not destro\-ed by the fire, the following names of the Grand and Petit Jurors have been ascertained. Grand Jur- ors: Zephnmiah Wade. Geo. W. Holman, George Linzee. Abner 332 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Overman, Wm. Coats, John Hoover, Joseph Clymer, Aaron Rhen- berger, Ira Evans, John Plaster, John M. Jackson, Wm. H. Hood. Petit Jurors : George Townsend, John Wiseman, James T. Liston, Wm. M. Reyburn. Robt. Wade, Richard Ransford, Isaac Marquiss, Isaac Stewart, John Rav, Wm. Wilkinson, John Smith, Joseph C. Tavlor, Wm. Cannon, Stewart Forgv, Alexander Jamison, Joseph B. Campbell, Walter D. Nesbit, A. B. Rattiff, John Sanders, Na- thaniel McGuire, Jesse Wilkinson. The first authentic records begin with the September term of the Miami Circuit Court, which began at the Court house in the town of Peru on the eleventh day of September, A. D., 1843, and adjourned therefrom to the Presbvterian Church in the same town, the Court house having been destro\'ed b}' fire since the last term. Present — the Hon. John W. Wright, President Judge of the Eighth judicial Circuit of the State of Indiana, and his associates, George S. Fenimore and Albert Cole, Esquires, for the Count}- of Miami, and Benj. H. Scott, Clerk, and John A. Graham. Sheriff, of said Court and Countv. The Sheriff returned into court the following list of Grand Jurors : Willvs Remch, Stephen Bradlev, Josephus Austin, Benja- min Austin, Benjamin Cady. Thomas Black, Eli Cook, Enos Bald- win, James B. Savers, Jonathan Bishop, Matthew Murden, Samuel Fisher and Jacob Flora, for the regular panel, and these men for the petit jurors: Samuel Ga3er, Eli Flora and Washington Ab- bott, a total of fifteen, that being the number then required on the Grand Jurv bv the State laws. The same number is now in de- mand by the United States for a Grand Jury. Spier S. Tipton was at that time prosecuting attorney and because of the destruction by fire of all indictments pending in the court at that time, he entered a nolle prosequi to them all. Among the causes on the docket at this time were two for divorce, between Hannah and Joseph Read, John and Luthania Cressman; one for a writ of ad quod danuuim by the Peru Bridge Co., against the heirs of Wm. N. Hood and of George Washington Godfroy; two for slander b\- Fletcher and wife against Thomas Gowdy, and Richard Gillaspel against Horace Mason. Besides these were a number for debt, assumpsit, tres- pass, promise and other important matters. The Grand Jury returned a number of indictments but the records do not dis- close what thev were for except that one was for perjury. The names of the attorneys that appeared at tha. term were Daniel D. Pratt, A. A. Cole, Horace P. Biddle, Ii'athan O. Ross, Wm. Z. Stewart, Spier S. Tipton, Ebenezar P. Love- land, M. W. Seely. At the March term following there were some State cases on record for betting, two for perjur}', one for violation of the <^ Zt^-z^^^A^^ BENCH AND BAR. 335 estray law, and in addition to these were iive for contempt of court against John A. Graham, Wm. World, Jacob Stroup, Jere- miah Shaffer and Daniel Chrosuster. In September, 1S44, the suit of ad quod daiiDiiiin by the Peru Bridge Company, was brought to a termination b}' the granting of a right to erect and maintain a bridge across the Wabash river on Broadway street. In the award of the court in this cause there is the following : " That it will be of no damage to the several proprietors, and that the mansion houses of none of the several proprietors (along the river) nor the officers, curtitage, or gardens thereunto, immediately belonging will be oxerflowed by the erection of said bridge nor the abutments, toll- house nor causeways thereof ; and it appearing further to the satis- faction of the court that ordinary navigation of fish or passage will not thereby be obstructed, and that the health of the neighbor- hood will not be annoyed by the stagnation of the water occa- sioned by the construction of said bridge, abutments, toll-houses and causeways * * it is therefore ordered, etc., etc." At this term Z. W. Stewart was prosecuting attorney. It was at this term also that the first verdict, now on record, imposing the penaltv of confinement in the State Prison was returned. It was against James INI. Thompson who was convicted of grand larceny and sentenced to two years imprisonment and fined nineteen dollars for the benefit of the Miami County Seminar}-. Nathan O. Ross was allowed five dollars for defending him. This is the first case shown by the records, but there may have been others of this kind prior to the burning of the records in 1S43. At the Februarv term, 1845, W. M. Cadien was fined five dol- lars for violation of the election laws. It seems that the people were as eager to exercise the right of suffrage then as now. Phillip Hester was found guilty of grand larceny and sen- tenced to four years in the penitentiary. David Kistler was sent for one year on a charge of petit larceny. The Grand Jury re- port that the jail is sufficient for the safe-keeping of the prisoners. Josiah Watterson was given five years because he was guilty of forgerv. Hester and \Vatterson were defended by D. D. Pratt, and Kistler by E. P. Loveland, A. A. Cole and N. O. Ross. In August, 1845, Noah Allebaugh presented his commission as sheriff of Miami County and he proceeded to perform the duties of the office. In February, 1846, David M. Dunn presented a commission as prosecuting attorne}' of the Eighth Judicial Circuit of Indiana. At this time all causes that required publication were published in the Democratic Pharos^ of Logansport, that being the nearest newspaper. In 1847, at the March term, Hon. Horace P. Biddle came 336 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. to the bench in Miami County as president judge. His com- mission was signed by James Whitcomb as Governor. For that term Wm. S. Palmer was sworn as prosecuting attorney. During this term Samuel Smith was tried on an indictment for murder, but the jury failed to agree. At the March term, 1848, Nathaniel McGuire assumed the duties of prosecuting attorney and at the same time Coleman Hen- ton was sheriff, and during the term James B. Fulwiler succeeded Benjamin H. Scott as clerk. In September, 1848, Albert Cole, who had been so long one of the associate judges upon the circuit bench, retired, and his place was occupied by Daniel Potter. William Potter became prosecuting attorney at the Septem- ber term, 1849. ^^ ^^'^ term Mary x\nn Reese and Jesse Washburn were prosecuted for murder, and a jury said they were not guilty. Both of these cases were brought to this County on a change of venue from Fulton county. In September, 1850, Caleb Fonce was found guilty of mur- der in the second degree. The gist of all the record that remains of it is contained in the following verdict of the jury: " We, the jury, find the said defendant guilty of voluntaril}^ killing said Godfrey, as charged in said indictment, upon a sud- den heat, without malice expressed or implied, and with delib- eration and premediation, and say and find that the said defend- ant is guilty of manslaughter, and that he be imprisoned in the State Prison, to be there kept at hard labor for the term of two years." Upon the convening of court at the March term, 185 1, it adjourned from the Presbyterian Church to the Methodist Church. At the. September term of that year John B. Clemens was acquitted on a charge of murder. This cause was on a change of venue from the Fulton circuit court. At that term, also, the court audited the accounts of this County against Fulton County arising on the trials of Mary Ann Rees and Jesse Washburn, who were also tried here on a change of venue. These two, with the Clemens case, amounted to $766, which amount Fulton County w'as called upon to pay. Judge Biddle was succeeded upon the Circuit bench at the September term, 1852, by Hon. Robert H. Milroy. John M. Wilson was at the same time special Prosecuting Attorney. Judge Milroy was destined to sit upon the Miami Circuit bench but a short time. It was during this year that Indiana adopted the new constitution, and thereby changed very much the man- ner of holding courts and the methods of practice. Before proceed- ing further with an account of the court proceedings, it will be well to take a retrospective view of the judges and attorneys w^ho BENCH AND BAR. • 337 tigurt'd largel}' in the Miami Circuit Court up to this time. The Judges up to March, 1847, have, ah-eady been noticed. At that time Judge Wright was succeeded by Horace P. Biddle. In Judge Biddle Miami County had one of the most distinguished jurists. In 1852, he was elected senatorial delegate to attend the convention which met at the capital that }ear for the purpose of forming a new Constitution for the State Government. As a member of that convention he distinguished himself in the advo- cacy of provisions which experience has shown were wholesome and judicious, imparting additional dignity to the political and ju- dicial economy of the State. Resuming the practice of law dur- ing the interval after the conclusion of his convention service, he continued his professional labors until the fall of i860, when he was re-elected president judge of this circuit, designated at that time as the Eleventh. His commission was dated October 26, i860, and extended over a period of six years from the da}' pre- ceding. The circuit was then composed of the counties of Car- roll, Cass, Miami, Wabash, Huntington and Grant. Judge Biddle was re-elected in 1S66 for another term of six years, as judge of the Eleventh Circuit, composed of the same counties, and left the circuit bench at the close of the spring session in 1872. Two years later, however, he was elected one of the judges of the Su- preme. Court of the State, and served a full term of six years as such, leaving that high position full of judicial honors. Aside from his experience in the field of law as practitioner and judge, he has not been unknown to fame in the field of literature, hav- ing produced many valuable works in the department of science and general knowledge. He was then and is now a resident of Logansport. Robert H. Milroy was appointed the successor of Judge Biddle at the time of his resignation in 1852. Judge Milroy, prior to his accession to the bench, was a lawyer of consider- able abilit}% of wide experience and high integrity, and carried these qualities with him in the discharge of the duties pertain- ing to his more responsible position, leaving no stain upon the judicial ermine. His earh- life was spent chief!}- in Carroll Countv, Ind.. but having an inherent desire for distinction in the science of arms, he entered the militarv school at Norwich, Vt., where he became proficient in the theoretical details of militarv life. Upon the announcement of a declaration of war against Mexico, and a call for volunteers by Gov. Whitcomb, without delav he enlisted a companv for that service, of which he was made captain, and tendered his and their services for the strife alreadv inaugurated. Again, at the outbreak of the rebellion, he enlisted one or more companies for three months' service and was commissioned colonel of the rearated from tlie other words at both ends by lour leaved roses, said words in Roman capital letter and in direction parallel with the exterior and interior dotted circles, .lust within said words a second dotted circle in the same direction and in the open space within said circle a riijht hand huliliuir a pen in the position of writing, th^ lingers directed to the left, a true impression of which said seal, I certify the foregoing impression to be and leaving so devised the 342 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. same, I Lerebj' declare the above and foregoins; to be a true discription thereof and to l)e henceforth the seal of the Miami Circuit ("ourt. "Done in oi)en session of this said court at Peru, in said county, this 13th day of "September A. 1). 1853. John Upfold Pettit." Accession of Judge Wallace. — At the September term, 1854, Hon. John Brownlee came to the Circuit Bench in this countj'^ in the place of Judge Pettit, who had been elected to Congress. Judge Brownlee was then and is now a resident of Grant county. He was commissioned by Joseph A. Wright as Governor. This was his onl}" term in Miami County, and at the March term, 1855, he was succeeded b}- Hon. John M. Wallace. He too was a resident of Grant Count\- at the Bar of which he was at that time foremost. Judge \\'allace was a brilliant man, aad was a fluent speaker. As an advocate he was surpassed bv but few, and his knowledge of the law enabled him to become an able and efficient judge. At this same term Hiram Moore assimied the duties of County Sheriff. Isaiah M. Harlan, who had been Prosecuting Attorne}' one year, still continued in that office. In September, 1855, James B. Fulwiler was succeeded in the office of Clerk bv Alexander Blake, and John Wertz became Sheriff. It ma\' be worthy of mention that the sessions of court were still held in the Methodist Church. Since the fire in 1843 there had never been a suitable room prepared by the county for that purpose. Orris Blake became Prosecuting Attorney in 1856, R. P. De- Hart, October, 1859, W. S. Benham, October, i860, and M. H. Kidd, September, 1861. An order that was of some importance to Attorneys was placed on record at the March term, 1856. It was as follows: Inasmuch as the practice of attorneys testifying in behalf of clients is in many cases of questionable propriety, calculated frecjuent to give occasion for unfriendly insinuiitions and grave charges of a criminal character, and generally to prejudice that good understanding which should every where prevail among the members of the legal profession, it is ordered that in the courts of the Eleventh .Judicial Circuit the practice of attorneys testifying in behidf of their clients, at their own instance, or at the instance of co-counsel, will be re- garded uitli great disfavor, unless when it is absolutely necessary to jjrevent great in- jury to jiarties, and when the facts can be established by no other creditable witness. The October term, i860, was the last of Judge Wallace, and most of that was held by John Brownlee, under appointment. In April, 1861, Horace P. Biddle, after several years absence from the Miami Circuit Court, returned to the duties of Circuit Judge. Judge Biddle has alread\" been extensively noticed in this chapter. Important Criminal Cases. — Among the criminal trials of the county the following are specially mentioned. In September, 1853, Nathaniel Myers was tried on a charge of forgery, was convicted and sentenced to two years in the penitentiar\' and fined $100. At the same term James Williams was given two years and fined forty BKNCH AND BAR. 343 dollars for grand larceny. In March, 1854, George Chesrown re- ceived two years and $100 for forgery. A large number of cases came on about this time in which the Logansport and Northern In- diana Railroad Co. was a party. They were mostly trials resulting oyer the right of way and for stock subscription. These were nearly the tirst railroad cases in the county. Nathan Kimble was acquitted of murder in September, 1S54. One of the most important criminal trials in the earh- daj-s was the case of the State of Indiana ys. Abner Dillon, for murder. This was tried at the March term, 1857- John M. Wilson assisted in the prosecution with much yigor. Dillon was charged with hay- ino- killed his wife, by beatin4. Nelson Perdham. .^larch, 1865. W. W. Sullivan, April, 1867. A. B. Charpie, September, 1867. W. E. Pew, September, 1867. Geo. H. AVilliams, April, 1369. Albert C. Ewing, March, 1869. Henry T. Underwood. March, 1869. Edwin Leas. October, 1869. Alexander Hess. Octolier, 1869. J. H. McNary, Octob.-r. 1870. Thos. B. Miller. April, 1871. John R. Parmelee, Ajiril, 1872. G. A. Osborn, April, 1872. F. M. ^Morgan, April, 1873. Stephen 1). Carpenter, June, 1873. Wm. :M. AVaters. October, 1873. Geo. W. Brizee, October, 1873. BENCH ANU HAR. 347 tAugustine O. Nelson, 1850. E. P. Dickey, prior to March, IS.'il. .Meredith II". Kidd, Septenilier, 1S")1. K. P. E(liii.';. Farrar, March, 1850. Orris Blake, September, 1850. .Jas. A. Stretch, Seiitember, 1850. R. T. St. John, Sei)tenilier, 1850. J. Carvin, .March, 1857. J. M. Brown, March, 18.57. Christy, prior to September, 1857. R. P. Delhirt, April, 1859. John H. CoiTroth, April. 1859. W. S. Bciiham, April, 1859. James M. Talbott, October, 1859. Jolin .M. Washburn, October, 1859. Jas. X. Tyner, prior to Ajn-il, 1800. J. M. Kobinson. prior to April, 1800. Goodwin, October, 180O. S. W. Robertson, October, 1800. Lyman Walker, October, ISOO. Cidvin Cowgill, October, 1860. Peterson, April, 1801. 'I'hos. A. Stuart, ^Mjireh, 1875. Hood Pratt I.oveland, March, 1875. Orlando .McNabb, .hnie, 1870. Ethan T. Keasouer, October, 1877. Spear S. Steele, prior to Jun<', 1877. Lyster T. Pitman, June, 1877. Jos. A. Faust, April, 1877. Chas. A. Cole, January, 1878. Thos. E. Sonnster, February, 1878. Abraham Diplioye, .April. 1878. AVm. J. Smith, .June, 1878. David W. Curtis, Jainiary, 1879. Wui. B. .McClintic, January, 1879. Henry T. Helm, January, 1879. Geo. E. Ross, January, 1879. Jay H. Xetr, .luno, 1879. Lynn Helm, June, 1879. Wm. E. Mowbry, jirior to June. 1879. Samuel F. Winter, October, 1879. C. M. Emeri<'k, prior to October, 1879. Clem J. Kern, December, 1879. Chas. S. DuiH!, .April, 1880. N. X. Antrim, prior to April, 1880. Robt. J. Loyeland, April, 1880. Geo. F. O'Byrne, April, 1880. Wm. C. Farrar, Ajiril, 18!S0. .los. H. Larimer, .April, 1880. Alfred II. Plummer, .\pril, 1881- Hiram S. Holt, October, 1881. .Alichael S. Etlinn'cr, October, 1881. Win Brentou, April, 1882. Charles R. Pence, June, 1882. Jabez T. Cox, May, 1883. Resident Attorney?,. — The Bar docket now contains these names of active resident attorne3'S of Miami County. LIST OF ATTORNEYS. N. O. Ross, H. J. Shirk, R. P. Elliuger, John L. Farrar, .losiah Farrar, James M. Brown, Lyman \\':dker, John Mitchell, W. !•:. Mowlirar, \V. W. Sulliyan, C. M. Kmeric k. Nott .A. .\ntrim, S. I). Carpenter, Henry B. Jamison, John W. Eward, Robt. C. Foor, Chas. A. Cole, A. J. Dipboye, Walter C. Bailey, Joseph A. Faust, Ethan T. IJeasoner, H. F. I'nderwood, AV. B. AlcClintic, William J. Snnth, Wm. C. Farrar, Robert J. Loyeland, Joseph 11. Larimer, Hiram S. Holt, Chas. R. Pence, Jabez T. Cox, Elmer S. Morris. 348 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. CHAPTER VI. Schools — Early Educational Advantages — First Schools — Teachers and Their Methods — Schools of Peru — The Townships in Detail — The County Seminary — The Con- gressional Township Funds — Normals and Institutes, Etc. WHEN our forefathers, a century ago, declared in the ordi- nance of 1787 that knowledge with religion and moral- ity was necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, thev struck the kev-note of American libertv. Science and literature began to advance and the enthusiasm began to move forward with the tide of emigration. The declaration of the con- stitution of Indiana gave new life to the cause within the borders of the new State. The first who came to find homes upon the banks of the Wabash and its tributaries were illy prepared to provide the necessary means for the education of their children. So impor- tant an object, however, could not be delaj-ed, and struggling through the pressure of poverty and privation, they soon began to plant among them these early institutions of learning. The schools for many years were in a condition corresponding with the advancement in all other public matters. The teachers were, as a rule, illiterate and incompetent and selected not because of anj- special qualifications, but because they had no other business. The only requirements were that the teachers should be able to teach reading, writing and " ciphering." The teacher who could " cipher all the sums" in Pike's arithmetic up to and including the single rule of three was considered a mathematician of no mean ability. With such a condition of things, no system and no discipline could have been expected. Among the teachers there was no concert of action and consequently no uniformitv in work. No appliances were provided without which successful work can not be accom- plished. Blackboards were unknown; wall maps were not in use; text-books were few, and those provided were illogicallv arranged and unsuitable for use; classification was unknown, the number of classes always corresponding with the number of pupils. For many years there were in most districts only subscription schools and these presided over bv incompetent and inexperienced teachers. Several years had elapsed, after the first settler came to the county, before a school was open to the public. This delav was due the sparseness of the population — there being in no one neigh- borhood a sufficient number of white children to constitute a school EDUCATIONAL ADVANTAGES. 349 until 1833. William Smith, now a citizen of Peru, was, according to good authority, the first to assume the role of the pedagogue. He opened a school during the winter of said 3'ear in a cabin tiiat stood on the present site of the town of Mexico. The cabin was built of unhewn logs, with a mud and stick chimney in one end of the building, and a fire-place wide enough to receive a four to six-foot back log. For windows a part of a log was cut out and the aperature covered with paper, which, with an application of grease became quite translucent. The writing desks consisted of hewn slabs or heavy oak plank laid upon wooden pins driven in the wall. The benches and floor were of the same material — puncheons. With these equipments the first term was opened. Tlie children presented themselves the first morning well supplied with Webster's spelling books, from which spell- ing, reading, writing and arithmetic were taught. The attain- ments of Mr. Smith were probably superior to the average teacher of to-day, yet it is safe to say that the organization was unsvstematic and the teaching immethodical, for such was cer- tainly true of the teaching of every Hoosier school-master of that period. It is claimed by one of the pupils who attended this school that whenever there was any manifestations of a lack of interest or enthusiasm on the part of the pupils the same was restored by a vigorous application of the rod, which, it is said, was vary potent in its influence. This school was patron- ized by the families who resided in that neighborhood, among whom were the Wilkinsons, Beards, Connors, Cooks, Banes and others. The second school in Jefferson Township was taught by the same teacher the following year, in a house built for the pur- pose. This was a log building 15x20 feet, and in convenience of arrangement was superior to the first. A school was taught by William Suewalt in the winter of 1834-35. The house was a log dwelling which stood on the Wynkoop farm, near where John Stanton now lives. The township was soon organized and other houses were erected at public expense. At present there are two graded school buildings in the township — one at Denver the other at Me.xico, the former con- sisting of four graded schools and the lattter of three depart- ments. There are nine country districts, and altogether the township employs sixteen teachers. Sc/iools of Peril. — The common schools of every State or county are the foundation upon which the general system of education must be built. These are the colleges of the people, and if neglected the great mass must grow up in ignorance. Although manv of these primitixe schools were but little more than a place at which the pupils would gather to receive their 350 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. dailv '• tannings " by a teacher who was selected because of his physical, rather than his mental procli\ities, yet there is no doubt but that the influence was good. The first institution of learning was a log building 18x24 feet, located on Third street and erected bv the venerable William Smith, at his own expense. This building was probably completed in the fall of 1834, '^"'^ the first term taught the winter following. Mr. Smith, who had previously taught at Mexico, was the lirst teacher, and taught three consecutive terms. This was a subscription school, each pupil being required to pay a fee of .$2.50. It is claimed that in some instances this amount was paid in coonskins and venison hams, which, at a still earlier day, is said to have been very generally used as a medium of exchange. The attendance averaged about ten pupils daily, which brought to the teacher about $25 per term, he furnishing both house and fuel. The .second house was a frame structure, located on Third street opposite the residence of Dr. Bloomfield. Another house which was used but a short time, was erected on Broadwav. The Presbyterian and Catholic churches were both used for school purposes during the latter part of the thirties. About the vear 1S37, what was known as the Peru Collegate Insticute, was estabHshed. A Presb3'terian minister by the name of John Stocker, a classical scholar, was the first principal, and his wife, who was an accomplished lady, associate principal. The build- ing used stood on the present site of the Presbjterian church, and at times when the attendance was too larfje to be accom- modated in one building, an old log house on Second street was used by the academical department. The institute was largely patronized not only by the people of Miami, but adjoining coun- ties as well. Among others who served as members of the board of trustees, were Rev. S. Newberry, Wm. N. Hood, Richard L. Britton, James B. Fulwiler and Alfred S. Keiser. Prof. H. Waldo. A. M., succeeded Mr. Stocker as principal. Since the establishment of the Colle ciples. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and belongs to the Odd Fellows fraternity. NOTT N. ANTRIM," a prominent member of the Miami County bar and fourth son of Benjamin and Frances (Grey) Antrim, was born in Cass County, Indiana, on the 25th day of March, 1847. Left motherless at the age of four yeai-s and fath- erless at ten, he was early in life obliged to reh" almost wholly upon his own resources, and until attaining his majority worked on the farm, obtaining a common school education in the meantime. Possessing a desire to make law his life work, Mr. Antrim, in 1872, began his legal studies with Messrs. Mitchell & Shirk, of Peru, under whose instructions he continued until his admission to the bar in 1873. He began the active practice of his profession, April, 1874, and within a short time thereafter won for himself a con- spicuous place among the lawyers of Miami and adjoining counties, having been elected the same year to the office of State's Attorney for the circuit composed of Miami and Wabash counties. He was re-elected to the same position in 1876, and in 1882 was chosen to represent Miami County in the General Assembly of Indiana. In 1 88 1 he effected a copartnership in the practice with James M. Brown, Esq., and the firm thus formed still continues. As a law- yer, Mr. Antrim is painstaking and methodical, and has already an extensive and lucrative practice in the.courts of Miami and other counties of Northern Indiana. His official, as well as private life -is above reproach, and he enjoys in a marked degree the esteem snd confidence of the community around him. In politics, he is a Repub- lican, and, as such, has rendered valuable service to his party in this countv. Mr. Antrim on the nth day of February, 1875, was united in marriage with Miss S. Marilda Adkisson, of Crawford County, Illinois. DANIEL R. BEARSS (deceased) was born August 23, 1809, in Geneseo, Livingston Countv, New York. His parents were Truman and Sabrina (Roberts) Bearss. His grandfather was a major in the Revolutionary Army, under General Wash- ington, and his father served in the war of 181 2. .\bout the }'ear iSii,the family removed to Painesville, Ohio, and in iBjJ to Detroit, Michigan. Mr. Bearss' boyhood was spent on a farm and his education was acquired in a log school house. In 1828 he went to Ft. Wayne where he became a clerk for W. G. and G. W. Ewing. His employers soon opened a branch BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 395 Store in Logaiispovt in whicli Mr. Rearss was engaged until 1832. He then spent .two years in mercantile business on his own account in Goshen. In August 1834 with his young wife he settled in Peru where he resided the rest of his life. During his first year's residence here he carried on a general mercan- tile business in partnership with his father-in-law, Judge Albert Cole, whose biography appears elsewhere. This connection being disolved Mr. Bearss continued the business until 1844, when he formed a co-partnership with Charles Spencer under the firm name of Bearss and Spencer. Mr. Bearss being occu- pied with outside matters, Mr. Spencer took charge of the business, hi 1849, ^^- JE^earss sold his interest in the store and ^nally retired from mercantile life, after a prosperous business career of about twent\--one years. With perhaps one exception Mr. Bearss was the largest tax payer in Peru. He owned con- siderable cit\' property among which were. the Broadway Hotel and a number of business blocks. He also owned several val- uable farms one of which just north of Peru he made his home. Mr. Bearss was one of the leading politicians of his county but was never known to resort to political trickery' in order that his party might triumph. No one in his locality labored more earn- estly for the promotion of Henry Clay to the Presidency. From the organization of the Republican party he was one of its warmest friends and through his great popularity succeeded in carrying many elections when said party was in the minority. Through his influence Hon. Schuyler Colfax was first placed before the people as a candidate for Congress. Mr. Bearss served his count}' in various minor public offices. He was in the slate Legislature twenty years, eight years as Representative and twelve as Senator. During the memorable and exciting period of the late civil war when many legislators seemingly in sympathy with the south sought to tie the hands of Governor Morton and prevent the state from furnishing support to the Union, no member of the Senate was more faithful to his country than Mr. Bearss. His age prevented him from entering the army but he did his duty in the halls of Legislation. He took an active part in the railroad enterprises of the countj^ and for a while served as director of the I. P. & C. and Wabash roads. With his family he attended the Congregational church and gave liberally towards its support. Mr. Bearss was a man of com- manding stature and in his prime possessed great physical strength and endurance. Few men were more favorably or better known not only in the county but throughout the state. He died April iS, 1884 at Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he had gone for the benefit of his health. January 14, 1834, ^^ Goshen, Indiana, he married Emma A. Cole, daughter of the late Judge 396 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Albert Cole. The following are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Bearss: George R., William, Albert, Oliver, Homer, Frank, Emma and Ella. ALBERT C. BEARSS, a native of Peru, was born April I, 1838, and is the third son of Daniel R. and Emma A. (Cole) Bearss, the sketches of whom appear elsewhere. Receiving his primarv education in the city schools of Peru, at the age of 14 he entered the preparatory department of Kenj'on College at Gamfier, Ohio, where he pursued the studies of that institution for a period of four years, and then returned to Peru. In 1859 he traveled westward and located in California, where he secured the position of salesman for a firm in the northern part of that State, and in 1862 he returned east as far as Nevada, where he engaged principalh' in silver mining and politics. In the year 1867 he came back to his native State and established himself in the mercantile business in the town of Rochester, Fulton County, where he continued until 1875, and then again made Peru his home con- tinually since that time, devoting his attention to farming and also to public affairs. During his stay in Nevada he was three times elected to the lower house of the Legislature, and when he re- turned to Indiana, received the nomination on the Republican ticket for the same position and was elected in 1878, and in 1879, was by his very intimate friend, James N. Tyner, postmaster general, appointed postotfice inspector, which he filled in a cred- itable manner until his resignation took place — March, 1885 — - and since that time has been looking after his farm of 550 acres, situated in Peru township. Mr. Bearss was married to Miss Madeline V. Lamb, of Coshocton, Ohio, March 20, 1867. This union has been blessed with two children, Fannie Emma and Nellie Cole. Our subject is a staunch Republican, and believes in the Jacksonian motto: "To the victors belong the spoils." He was made Chairman of the Republican central committee of Miami county, and at present occupies that position. JOHN H BECK, City Treasurer, was born in Miami county, Indiana, October 23, 1845, and is the eldest son of Adam and Teresa Beck, parents natives of Germany. Adam Beck was born in 1816; was united in marriagfe with Miss Teresa Trefferd in 1844, and the year following emigrated to the United States, coming direct to the cit\- of Peru. Joiin H. Beck was raised in Peru, obtained a practical education in the city schools and at the age of 16 commenced the tinner's trade, at which he served a three year's apprenticeship. In 1879, in partnership with Edward E. Riley, he opened out in the business for himself. He still carries on the business in connection with the retail hardware trade, and is one of the successful merchants of the city. In 1883 he was elected City Treasurer, re-elected in 1885 and is the present BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 397 incumbent of the office. He was married April, 1866, to Miss Catherine Silberman of Peru, a daughter of F. B. Siiberman. NER. BLACK was born in Peru township May 3, 1837, and is the eldest son of Samuel and Mar}- (Haines) Black, natives of Virginia and Connecticut, who were of English descent. His father came to Peru township in 1834, and followed farming the whole of his life. Born in 1800 and died in 1880. The subject was raised on the farm and has always pursued the occupation of farming. His wife was Margaret Honan, daughter of Solomon and Mary Honan, who came to this country in 1832 or 1833, and remained until death, which occurred in 1852. The subject was the father of four children, whose names are Nellie A., Charles E., Milton W., and Fred G. He adheres to the prin- ciples of the Republican partv. EDMUND BLOOMFIELD, M. D., prominent physician and surgeon of Peru, is a native of Ohio, born near the city of Eaton on the 29th day of December, 1841., His father, Reuben Bloomfield, was born in Preble County, Ohio, in the year 1S09, and his mother, Ann (Hopkins) Bloomrield, was a native of the same state also, and died there about the year 1856. Dr. Bloom- field's early educational training was received in the schools of his native city, supplemented by a course in the Miami Universit}-, Oxford, Ohio, in which institution he pursued his literary studies for nearly two years, making substantial progress during that period. His early tastes leading him to a choice of the medical profession, the Doctor, in 1866, commenced preparing for the same by a course of reading with A. L. Dunham, M. D., of Eaton, under whose instruction he continued until the fall of the following year. He then entered the medical department of the Universit}' of Michi- gan, at Ann Arbor, completing the prescribed course in 1869, and graduating the summer of the same year in Pharmaceutical chemis- try. Having thus thoroughly familiarized himself with the profes- sion, he began the active practice in 1870 at Peru, Indiana, where his superior professional abilit\' soon won for him a conspicuous place among the successful medical men of the county. Dr. Bloom- field, as a skillful physician and surgeon takes high rank, possess- ing many of the elements of popularity, and, since locating in Peru, his practice has been eminently successful, both professionally and financially. His extensive acquaintance in this and adjoining coun- ties, together with his well known integrity and ability, has brought him a large an^ lucrative business, while his standing as a citizen is such as to make him popular with a large circle of friends and acquaintances. In politics he is a Democrat, but in no sense of the word a partisan : although firm in his convictions and intellectually qualified to till official position he avoids the strife of political con- tests, preferring to give his entire time to his profession. Dr. 398 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Bloomfield's marriage with Miss Helen Davenport, of Peru, was sol- emnized April 26, 1 87 1. They have three children, viz: Mary G., Guv D., and Nellie B. Bloomfield. Mrs. Bloomtield is a member of the Episcopal Church of the city. Dr. Bloomfield is a member of State Medical Society, American Medical Association and Countv Medi- cal Society. JOHN P. BOWMAN, a native of Montgomery County. Vir- ginia, was born September 2, 1826, to John and INIarv (Cromer) Bowman, natives of \'irginia, but of German descent. His father emigrated from Virginia to Tippecanoe County when the subject was only about twelve years old, and they then came to Peru Township. John C. was reared on the farm and received a medium education. His occupation has ahvavs been that of a farmer. He was married in 184S to Miss Catharine Meyers, a daughter of Nicholas Meyers. To them were born ten children, viz: Sarah J., Emeline, William R., Julia A., Noah, Amanda, Daniel, Phoebe, Charles and George W. (deceased). Mr. Bowman is the proprietor of 277 acres of fine land in Peru Township, and also 291 acres in Cass Countv, all of which is under good cultivation. His politics are Democratic. PHILIP H. BOYNTON, the immediate subject of this sketch is a native of Miami and son of Joseph D. and Hannah Bovnton. Captain Joseph Bovnton, the paternal grandfather, was a son of Joseph and Sallie (Goss) Boynton, who were early resi- dents of New Hampshire, the former born in Stratham and the latter in the town of Greenland, that State. Captain Joseph Boynton was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, was at the capture of Burgoyne and Cornwallis, and also took part in the celebrated eampaign against Quebec imder General Arnold. He was two years adjutant of the New Hampshire Division — died June 25. 1831, aged 76 years. Joseph D. Boynton was born in Cor- nish, Maine, June 4, 1793: was raised a farmer and wiiile \oung familiarized himself with several trades, among which were those of shoemaking, carpentering, tanning, plastering, etc., in all of which he became a skillful workman. He married November 30, 1S15, Hannah Chick, daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Lord) Chick, who were members of one of the oldest and most respectable families of Maine. Mrs. Bovnton was born at the town of Parsonsfield, Maine, January 24, 1794, and died at Freeport, the same State, Februaiy 12, 1882. Mr. Boyn- ton departed this life earlv in the' eighties, exact date unknown. The following are the names of the children born to Joseph D. and Hannah Boynton, to-wit: Mary P. (deceased), Hannah, Frances A., Ammi L. (^deceased), Alvira P., Harriet O., Lucy A., Joseph W., Elizabeth B., Caroline N., Philip H. and Martha E. S. Bovnton. Philip H. Bovnton was raised to agricultural pursuits. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 399 received in the district schools the rudiments of an Enj^lish education, and later attended the Cornish high school where he acquired a knovvledtje of the higher branches of learning. When nineteen years of age he accepted a position in a cotton factory at Saco, Maine, and after working at the same for one year, went to Rochester, New York, and engaged as repairer of track on the Rochester & Niagara Falls railroad. In August, 1852, he came to Indiana, and for three years thereafter was engaged in the construction of what is now the Wabash railroad. At the end of that time he went to Indianapolis where, for a limited period, he worked in the freight office of the I., P. & C. railroad, and later engaged as brakeman for the same company. For about one year he had charge of the freight oflice in Peru, Indiana, and then took charge of an engine, running freight and con- struction trains for about three j-ears. In December, 1862, he began running a passenger engine on the I., P. & C, a position he has since filled, being at this time one of the oldest and most reliable engineers in Indiana. An estimate of his mileage since engaging as engineer would be difHcult to determine, but an approximation of the distance traversed in his engine would be equivalent to over forty trips around the earth. Mr. Boyn- ton has been twice married, the first time on the 4th day of July, i860, to Miss Elizabeth Livesay, of Virginia, who died July i6lh of the following year. He married his present wife. Mar}' J. Todd, daughter of H. S. and Agnes Todd, of Rockville, Indiana, in Januarv 1863, a union blessed with one child, Charles J. Boynton. Mr. Boynton is a member of the Masonic and K. of H. fraternities and belongs to the Baptist church. Mrs. Boynton is a member of the Presby- terian church of Peru. DR. WILLIAM H. BRENTON, M. D., eldest son of Francis and Mar)- (Giltner) Brenton, is a native of Clarke County, Indiana, born May 2, 1828. His grandfather, William Brenton, was one of the pioneers of Indiana, moving as earlv as the beginning of the present centurv to Clarke Countv, of which part of the State Francis and Marv Brenton were natives. The Doctor was raised on a farm and his earlv educational privileges were such as the public schools of that day and locality afforded. During the pro- gress of this primar\- course he decided upon the medical pro- fession for a life work, and at the age of 16 began preparing for the same, under the able instruction of Dr. Frank Taylor of Westport, Kentucky. He subsequently took a course of lectures in Memphis, Tennessee, and in 1852 graduated from the medical department of the Indiana Asbury University. Prior to that time [in 1849) '^^ engaged in the practice of his profession at Ta^ylorv-ille, Indiana, and after having completed his collegiate course went to Metropolis, 400 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Southern Illinois, where he continued until 1857. In the meantime, with a laudable ambition to increase his knowledge of the profession he, in 1853 and '54 attended the St. Louis medical college, and sub- sequently in 1866 graduated with honor from Belle vue Hospital medi- cal college. New York, one of the largest and most thorough medical institutions in the United States. In 1862 he joined the Seventy- third Indiana volunteer infantr\- as first assistant surgeon, in which capacity he continued until his resignation in 1863, acting as surgeon during the greater part of his period of service. He came to Miami Countv, Indiana, in 1857 and on leaving the army resumed his professional duties in Peru, where he has continued to enjoy a well merited reputation in his calling. He is a member of the county and district medical societies, and also belongs to the State and American Medical Associations. His professional career has been singularlv successful, the reputation being awarded him as one of the most skillful surgeons and thorough practitioners in Miami Count}-. Although a Democrat in his political affiliations, the Doc- tor has not been an aspirant for official honors, preferring to give his entire attention to the practice of his chosen profession. He was married December, 1851, to Miss Elizabeth T. Bills, a native of Louisiana, but at that time a 'resident of Bartholomew County, In- diana, by whom he had two children, both deceased. Mrs. Brenton died September, 1856. In 185S he married his second wife, Lucinda Marsh, who bore him two children, viz., Etfie M., deceased, and William M., who is at present in the employ of the Wabash railroad companv at Peru. The Doctor's third marriage was solemnized in the vear 1879 with Miss Loantha Search, of Peru, a union blessed with the birth of three children, viz., Emma E., Mary M., and John H. Brenton. JAMES M. BROWN, prominent member of the Miami County bar, is a native of Union County, Indiana, born October 16, 1826. He is the son of Walter Brown who was born in Hamilton Countv, Ohio, and Keziah (Laboyseaux) Brown, a native of New Jersey. His paternal ancestors were English and on the mother's side he is descended from the French. Walter Brown was a prominent pioneer of Union County, moving to that part of the State in 1S20, where he was wideh' and favor- ably known for his many excellent qualities. James M. Brown was reared on a farm, and in earh' life attended the common schools. At the age of eighteen he entered Beech Grove Academv, an institution under the control of the Friends and conducted at that time by one William Haughton. Until he was twentv-two Mr. Brown was varioush" occupied in attending school, farming and teaching. In the fall of 1848 he married Emilv C. Willis, also a native of Union County. For five j-ears he continued teaching, farming and studying, spending eighteen BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 40! months of the time in preparing to enter upon tlie practice of the law. hi the meantime he held the otfice of Township Trus- tee for one year in Preble County, Ohio. He removed to Con- nersville, Indiana, in 1854 ^°'' '^'^'^ purpose of completing his studies, and there entered the law office of Hon. Nelson Trusler and was soon after admitted to the bar. In October, 1855, Mr. Brown removed to Peru, Indiana, where he began the practice of his profession, and one year later effected a co-partnership in the law with Orris Blake, Esq. From 1859 ""''^ 1862, witli some intermission, he was associated in a law partnership with Hon. James N. Tyner, ex-Postmaster-General. In the spring of i860, Mr. Brown was elected Mayor of Peru, and being three times re-elected served for four successive terms. Immediatelv after he was elected City Engineer, the duties of which position he discharged for a period of about eight years. He also served as School Trustee two years, and from 1877 until 1879 ^^'^^ '^ member of the Peru City Council. He has always been identi- fied with the Republican part}-, and in 1868 was connected with G. I. Reed as part owner of the Peru Rcpiihlican, continuing as associate editor of the same the greater part of the succeed- ing three years. Mr. Brown is recognized by all who know him, as one of the most useful and upright citizens of the com- munit}' in which he lives. Possessing an extraordinary fund of exact information on many subjects, his qualifications to discharge with ability the duties of each official trust to which he has been called are unquestioned. A close student of history, science and ancient literature, he is also a genial, companionable gentle- man, beloved by his family, and honored and respected by his friends. His marriage has been blessed with the birth of two children, viz: Benjamin and Mary E. Brown. GEORGE W. CHAMBERLAIN, contractor and builder and son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Johnson) Chamberlain, natives of New Jersey, was born in that state on the 13th day of June, 1S22. He was reared in the state of his nativitv until his fourteenth vear, at which time (1836) he removed with his parents to Seneca Count}-, Ohio, where one year later he began working at the carpenter's trade. He soon acquired great proficiency in his chosen calling and worked at the same at different places until 1S51, when he ' came to Peru, where he has since followed the trade with success and financial profit. He is at this time engaged in contracting and building principally in Peru and Miami County, and some of the most elegant residences and business houses in the city and adja- cent country were erected under his personal supervision. Mr. Chamberlain is an intelligent mechanic, and, with his family, pos- sesses in an eminent degree the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens. His marriage with Miss Margaret Morrison, a native 402 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. of the State of Pennsylvania, has been blessed with the birth of two children, viz: George R., and Nellie Chamberlain. GEORGE R. CHAMBERLAIN, teller First National Bank, was born in Peru, Indiana, August 4, 1854, son of George W. and Margaret (Morrison) Chamberlain. He was educated in the city schools, which he attended until his sixteenth year, completing the High School course in 1870. He then engaged as clerk in the mercantile house of J. S. Hale, Peru, in which capacit}- he continued one year, severing his connection with the dry goods business at the end of that time and engaging February 17, 1872, as book-keeper in the First National Bank. In Mav, 1881, he was promoted teller, the duties of which responsible position he has since discharged in a manner eminently satisfactory to his employers. Mr. Cham- berlain is an accomplished business man, enjoys the confidence and respect of all with whom he comes in contact, and has before him a future fraught with much promise. He is a member of the K. of P. order, and politicallv votes with the Republican party. DAVID CHARTERS (deceased) was a native of Lewis- ton, Pennsylvania, and son of William and Elizabeth (Comfort) Charters, parents natives of the same state. The family moved to Miami County, Indiana, in 1846 and settled on a farm two miles west of Peru, where the mother died in 1873 and the father in 1865. David Charters was born, January- 24, 182 1, was reared a farmer and followed agricultural pursuits all his life. He came to Miami County in 1846 and from that time until his death lived upon the beautiful home place west of Peru. He was a man of much more than ordinary intelligence as is attested by the fact that he was several times chosen by the people of Miami to positions of trust, in all of which he acquit- ted himself with such commendable fidelity that no one was ever known to utter a breath of suspicion against his oflicial record. During the war and for several years thereafter, he served as County Commissioner and in 1874 was elected to rep- resent Miami in the State Legislature. In his business trans- actions he was uniformly successful and as a farmer he stood among the first in the county. On the 24th da}' of October, 1852 he was married to Eliza Long, daughter of John and Elizabeth Tingle) Long, of Delaware. Mrs. Charters was born in Eaton, ^ reble County, Ohio, and is the mother of nine children, seven of whom are living, to-wit: William, Juniata, Mifflin, Emmet, Margaret, Lafayette and Charle Charters. The deceased mem- bers of the family were Sarah and Catharine. Mr. Charters died on the nth day of March, 1882. His widow and several of the children still reside upon the home place, which is one of the best improved farms in Peru Township. JOSEPH C. CLYMER, County Treasurer, was born in Jef- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 4O3 ferson Township, Miami County, March 15, 1847. His pater- nal ancestors were Pennsjlvanians, his grandfather. Christian Clymer, emigrating from that State in an early day to Warren County, Ohio, where he lived until his removal to Miami County, about the 3-ear 1834. He, with his son Levi Clymer, father of subject, settled near Mexico, Jefferson Township, and was among the earliest pioneers of that section. He was a farmer by occupa- tion and died sometime in the latter part of the forties. Levi Cly- mer was born in Warren County, Ohio, January 15, 1811. He • was a resident of Jefferson Township, this county, until the year 1848, at which time he removed to Clay Township, where he has since resided. He is one of Miami County's representative farmers and a man widely and favorably known for his manj- sterling quali- ties. Subject's mother, Elizabeth Clymer, was the daughter of Henry Kirby, one of the earl\- and substantial citizens of Warren Coun'tv, Ohio. She departed this life at her home in Clay Town- ship, in the year 1876. Mr. and Mrs. Clymer, were the parents of nine children, four of whom are living, Joseph C, being the voungest son of the family. He was reared on his father's farm in Cla\- Township, acquired in the common schools a practical education and subsequently attended the Peru High School and the Valpa- raiso Normal College. He began life as a farmer and followed agricultural pursuits until 1881, at which time he accepted the posi- tion of Deputy County Treasurer, under E. Humrickhouse, and continued in that capacity for a period of four 3'ears. In the mean- time, 18S4, he was nominated by the Democratic party as a candi- date for that office, and at the ensuing election received a large majority of the county vote, a fact which attested his great popu- larity with the people. He having discharged the duties of the responsible trust in a manner highly satisfactorj' to all he was in 1 886 re-elected and is now entering upon upon his second term. Mr. Clymer is an intelligent, thoroughly well posted business man, and his career has been a marked success. He was married January 21, 1885, to Miss Emma, daughter of Isaac and Maria Miller, of Miami Count}-. JUDGE ALBERT COLE (deceased) was born May 13, 1790, at Berlin Connecticut. He was the son of Stephen and Lucy (Deming) Cole. His father was a farmer and died in 1801. Albert, then eleven years old, went to live with his oldest brother, who was also a farmer, and until the age of fifteen attended the dis- trict schools during the winters. He spent the interval between fif- teen and twent}' in learning tanning and shoe-making at Meriden, Connecticut, illness obliging him to give up his trade, he engaged one year in selling notions through the country. In 181 2, he decided to go to Mississippi, where he had an older brother living. He hav- ing reached his destination he remained one year, a part of the time 404 HISTORY OF MIAMI COLXTV. assisting his brother in a saw mill — on account of sickness, which he could not throw off, he purchased a pony at New Orleans and started Xorth by land — there being at that time only one steamer on the Western Waters. After a long and tedious journey, during which he passed through the possessions of the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations, he reached a white settlement near Columbia, Tennessee, where, owing to a severe illness, he was obliged to remain four weeks. In the fall of 1813, he reached Cincinnati, Ohio, and remained there until the following spring. In the mean- time news came that peace had been declared between the United States and Great Britain. After leaving Cincinnati Mr. Cole returned to Connecticut. There in September, 1814, he married Mary Galpin, and started for the west. He purchased a farm of eighty acres in Zanesville, Ohio, where as a farmer, tanner and shoemaker, he remained until 1833. That year bv means of a four horse wagon — probable among the first seen in that section, he transferred his family tirst to Goshen, Indiana, and afterwards, July, 1834, to Peru, in the same State. Miami County had then been recently organized and Peru selected as the County Seat. Con- siderable enterprise had, however, been manifested in the construction of the Wabash and Erie canal, the laying out of town lots, etc. Soon after going to Peru Mr. Cole formed a partnership w'ith Mr. D. R. Bearss, carried on a general mercantile business for one year and erected a store house. At the end of that time the firm dissolved. Mr. Cole taking his share of the goods to Lewisburg on the canal where he put up some log buildings, and sold goods for another year. He then returned to Peru and was engaged in mercantile pursuits for about six years, after which in 1848 he was elected postmaster, which office he held till 185 1 and then retired to a farm which he purchased in an early day just north of the city. After the death of his wife who had been a faithful companion for forty years, he returned to Peru, having disposed of his farm, and invested his capital in city property. Judge Cole w-as a Whig during the existence of that party and after its dissolution identified himself in the Republican party, voting the latter ticket until his death. He was elected Judge at the August election in 1840, when the circuit \vas com- posed of a President judge, elected by the Legislature and two associate judges, from each county, chosen by the people. He was United States Commissioner under President Harrison, for distribu- tion of Surplus Revenue. In 1857 he married Mrs. McCleary, of Zanesville, Ohio. Judge Cole had six children by his first wife, namely : Emma A., now Mrs. D. R. Bearss, Alphonso A., deceased, Lucy, wife of Lewis D. Adkison, Mary L., the late Mrs. James T. Miller, James O., and Ellen, wife of H. G. Fetter. Mr. Cole died November, 1878. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 4O7 RICHARD H. COLE, of the Miami County Sciilincl and one of the proprietors of the Cole Block, was born in this city, Nov. 26, 1S53; son of Hon. Alphonso and Sarah H. (Henton) Cole, and is of English extraction. His father was born near Oberlin, Ohio, December, 25, iSi8. He came to Miami County in 1834. Bv oc- cupation he was a lawyer and one of the earl}- members of the Miami County Bar. In 1847 and '48, and in 1849 ^""^ '5°' '^^ '"'^P" resented this county in the Indiana Legislature. He was one of the early prominent men of this county. His death occurred August 4, 1862. Our subject is the elder of two living children. After graduating at the Peru High School, he was a student for two years at the University of Illinois, located at Champaign. In 1876 he was elected Surveyor of Miami County, and in 1881 was elected City Engineer of Peru. In 1879 he purchased a half interest in the Miami Count}' Sentinel, and with which he is now connected. In politics he is a Democrat and is a member of the K. of P. fraternit}- of this city. He was married November 15, 1882, to Miss Belle M. Talbot, of this city, born March 15, i860. Mr. Cole is a representative of one of the early families of this county. HARVEY COMER, gunsmith, was born in Allen County Indiana, May, 30, 1846 and is the fifth child of James and Sarah E. (Somers) Comer, natives of Virginia. James Comer moved to Indiana in an earl}- day and settled in Allen County prior to the founding of the City of Ft. Wayne. He was a cooper by trade but after moving to Indiana engaged in farming which he carried on until his death in 1875. Mrs. Comer is still living on the home place in Allen County having reached a ripe old age. Harvey Comer was raised on a farm, enjoyed such educational advantages as were afforded by the common schools and at the age of nineteen began life for himself in the employ of the I. P. & C. rail road companj- at Peru. He worked in the shops here until 1S73 at whicfi time he took up his present trade, that of gunsmith and after following the same for some time in Peru, went to Terre Haute. He soon returned to Peru, where, since 1874, he has ceen actively engaged at his vocation, and is now in the enjoyment of a verj^ prosperous business. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and National Union Orders and is in every respect an honorable and trustworthv citizen. On the 15th day of April, 1877, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma Marshall, daughter of John Marshall, of Peru. GODLOVE CONRADT, native of Wurtemburg, Germany, and son of Henry and Catherine Conradt, was born on the loth dav of July, 1834. When four years of age he was brought by his parents to the United States, and from 1840 until 1845 lived in Springfield, Columbiana County, Ohio. The family moved to Miami County, Indiana, the latter year, and settled in Peru, where the 10 4t)8 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY, father for a number of years carried on a successful tannery busi- ness. The parents both departed this Hfe in the year- 1870. God- love Conradt received in the common schools a practical education, and at an early age learned the tanning trade, which he followed until his twentieth year. He then engaged in the mercantile busi- ness, opening a leather and shoe-tindings store in Peru, which he ' carried on in connection with the tannery, operating the latter with encouraging success until 1884. In addition to his private enter- prises, Mr. Conradt has at different times been called to hll positions of trust, the first of u'hich was that of Township Cleik, to which he was elected in i860. He was subsequenth- chosen a member of the City School Board, the duties of which position he discharged in a manner highly satisfactorj- to all concerned for a period of nine years. In his business ventures Mr. Conradt has been successful, and at this time, in addition to other propert}-, owns a valuable tract of 200 acres of land in Deer Creek township. On the 27th day of December, 1857, he married Miss Mar}' Smith, daughter of Chris- topher Smith, of Germany, a marriage blessed with the birth of four children, three of whom, Matilda, Fred and Albert, are living. Mr. Conradt is liberal in his political views in State and National affairs, voting the principles of the Democratic party, and in local matters voting for the man best qualified for the position. Mrs. Conradt is a member of the Lutheran Church of Peru. JONATHAN D. COX, was born in Butler December 9, 1818, being the third son of David (Bake) Cox, native of Monmouth County, The father of Mr. Cox emigrated to Ohio, came to Decatur Count\-, Indiana. He was born in 1792 and died in 1837. The mother of Mr. Cox died in 1836. The subject of this biography, received a common school education. He came to Miami County in 1837, and for some years worked on a farm and later clerked in a store. In 1840 he, in partnership with Richard Miller, started a general store at Pawpaw. He continued this business for four years and then engaged in farming. February 2, 1842, he married the daughter of Richard Miller, who died in 1848. By that marriage were born two children, Wm. H. and Alphonso C. Mr. Cox was married again February 12, 1850 to Miss Caroline, daughter of Col. William M. Reyburn, (deceased), who was one of the pioneers of Miami County. They have two children, viz: Charles R. and Horace G. Mrs. Cox died in 1856. Mr. Cox was married again in 1859 ^^ Miss Jennie Thornburg, a native of Wayne County. Indiana. By this union they have one child, Jessie B. Mr. Cox removed to Peru in 1856. In 1857 he engaged in the stove, tinware and lumber business. This business he continued one year and then again engaged in the agricultural pursuits which he con- tinued until 1885, when he retired from active life. In 1867 he was County, Ohio, J. and Rosina New Jersey, and in 1826 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 4O9 appointed Assessor for Miami County of Internal Revenue. In 1868 he was elected to represent Miami County in the General Assem- bly of Indiana. He was re-eleeted to the same office in 1870. He is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic fraternity. HON. JABEZ T. COX. The gentleman whose biograph- ical sketch is herewith presented, was born in Clinton County, Ohio, January 27, 1846. His parents, Aaron and Mary (Skeggs) Cox, were natives respectivel}' of Ohio and Kentucky, the father of English-Welsh, and the mother of German lineage. Jabez T. Cox, in earl)' life attended the common schools and subse- quently entered the Westfield Academy, an educational institu- tion under charge of the Society of Friends at Westfield, Ind., in which he pursued his literarj- studies for a period of four years. Having early decided upon the legal profession as his hfe work, he, in 1865 entered the law office of the late Hon. N. R. Overman, of Tipton, Indiana, under whose instruc- tions he continued until his admission to the b;ir, a little later, and with whom he formed a partnership in the practice which lasted from 1867 till 1869. In the latter year he abandoned the law for a time and entered the field of journalism as editor of the Frankfort Crescent, of which paper he was proprietor until 187 1, when he returned to Tipton and again took up the legal profession with his former partner. Judge Overman. From 1871, till 1875 ^'^ practiced with marked success in the courts of Tipton and adjoining counties, but in the latter year owing to his wife's ill health disposed of his interests in Indiana and removed to Hutch- inson, Kansas, In that state he soon acquired more than a local reputation, as is attested by the fact that in 1878 he was nominated on the Democratic state ticket for the office of Attorney General. Although defeated at the ensuing election, the Democratic party in Kansas being in a hopeless minorit}-, yet, when the vote was canvassed it was found that he had run 3,500 ahead of his ticket. Owing to continued ill heath of his wife he shortly afterward left Kansas and went to Colorado where he remained until 1883 when he returned to Indiana and located in Peru, where he has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession. In politics Mr. Cox has always been a pronounced Democrat, believing earnestly in his politi- cal convictions. In 1886 he received the nomination for Representa- tive to the Lower House of the State Legislature and after a bril- liant canvass defeated his competitor by a very decided majority. Mr. Cox's legal career presents a series of continual successes and his acknowledged familiarity with the principles of law, and thor- oughly independent cast of his mind make him a safe and trusted counselor. He has a military as well professional career, entering the service of his country in 1864 as private in Company B, 136th Indiana Infantry, and serving with the same until honorably dis- 4IO HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. charged at the close of the war. He is prominently identified w ith the G. A. R. and the Odd Fellows fraternities. He married his first wife, Miss Jennie Price, of Tipton, Indiana, in 1S67. She died in Colorado in the spring of 1882. Two children were born to the marriage, viz : Edward E. and Inez. His second marriage was solemnized in the year 1884 with Miss Lizzie Meinhardt, of Peru, who has borne him one child. Carl M. Cox. GEORGE A. CROWELL, retired business man and promi- nent citizen of Peru, is a native of Jefferson County, Virginia, born there June 25, 1820, the son of Samuel and Mary (Link) Crowell, natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectiveh', and of English- Scotch and Irish-German ancestr\'. His early school experience embraced the studies appertaining to the educational course pre- sented by the usages of those days in Sandusky County, Ohio, to which he moved with his parents when but seven years of age. He was raised to agricultural pursuits and remained with his parents on the farm until after attaining his majority, when he began life for himself as clerk in a mercantile house in the town of Fremont, Ohio. He continued in the capacity of salesman at the above place until 1843 and in 1845 came to Peru, Indiana, to take charge of a stock of goods for Sanford E. Main, in whose employ he remained for a period of about one and a half years. From the time of severing his connection with Mr. Main, up to 1850, he clerked for different parties, but in the latter j'ear effected a co-partnership in the general mercantile business with William Smith, which lasted until 1855. He purchased his partner's stock that year and conducted a suc- cessful business until 1876, at which date he retired from active fife, having by diligent and judicious management accumulated a hand- some competence in the meantime. In addition to his large busi- ness interests, Mr. Crowell always took an active part in all the enterprises for the city's welfare and was several times elected its treasurer, the duties of which position he discharged in an eminently satisfactory manner. He was largely instrumental in inaugurating the street improvements of Peru, in which he encountered much op- position, and also brought the first plate glass store front to the city, besides introducing a number of other modern improvements. He took an active interest in the internal improvement of the country, and to him, more than to any other man, is due the credit of securing and building up of the present efficient turnpike system of Miami County. At this time he is Superintendent of the following roads, to-wit: Peru and Mexico, Peru and Santa Fe, and Peru and Mississinewa Turnpikes, and their present superior condition is largely owing to his careful and judicious management. In the year 1869 he w^as appointed special Indian agent for the Miamis of Indiana and the Eel River bands of Miamis, and discharged the duties of the same until 1876. Mr. Crowell was married in May 185 1, to BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 4II Mary A. Steele, daughter of Joseph S. Steele, one of the pioneers of Miami County. Mrs. Crowell was born in the State of Ohio, and is still lixing. Of the four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Cro- well, but one, Alice O., is living at this time. The following are names of the of the children, deceased, to-wit: Mary C, George G. and Byron F. Throughout a long and active life, during which he passed through many vicissitudes, Mr. Crowell's ruling ele- ments have been industr}- and honesty, qualities which have made themselves apparent to all with whom he has been associated in a business capacitj- or otherwise. And now in the sixty-seventh ^•ear of his age, he is still an energetic, wide awake citizen, in pos- session of all his faculties and enjoying the full confidence and respect of all his friends and acquaintances. His portrait will be found elsewhere in this volume. PHILIP Q. CURRAN, merchant tailor, was born in the. City of Quebec, Canada, Jul}' 12, 1829, and is the third son of Patrick and Marv Curran, natives respectively of Ireland, and Scotland. Mr. Curran's early life was passed in his native cit\-, in the schools of which he received the rudiments of an Enirlish education. It may be said with .propriet\- that he is not an edu- cated man in the accepted meaning of that term, 3'et thoroughh- skilled in the details of practical business, such as is acquired only by the experience of years and the active observations of well developed common sense. At the age of twelve he appren- ticed himself to learn the tailor's trade, and after serving for a period of three years, during \\hich time he acquired great pro- ficiency, began working for himself in the city of Troy, New York. From there in 1848 he went to Massachusetts, and located at the citv of Cheshire, where he opened his first shop, and where he continued with encouraging success for a period of three years. He subsequentlv worked in various places, and, in 1854, experiencing a desire to move bevond the boundaries of the Eastern States, went to Detroit. Michigan, in which city he was cutter in a large tailoring establishment until the spring of 1858. He then removed to Peoria, Illinois, where he followed cutting principally until 1866, at which time he located in Ander- son, Indiana, where he carried on a successful business until he removed to Peru in 1873. On locating in this city he at once took high rank as a cutter, and continued that branch of the trade until 1878, in the spring of which vear he opened a business of his own, which he has since successfuUv operated. Mr. Curran is a wide-awake, energetic man, alwavs alive to the interests of his business and the general prosperit}' of the city. He has a large and lucrative patronage, and the business, now conducted under the firm name of Curran & Co., is the leading tailoring establishment in the city. Mr. Curran has a military as 412 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. well as a business record, of which he feels deservedly proud. He entered the army August, 1861, enlisting in the Forty-sev- enth Illinois Infantry, and served with the same until honorably discharged October, 1864. He went into the service as first sergeant, but early in 1S64 was promoted captain, a position he held at the time of his discharge. In politics Mr. Curran is an ardent supporter of the Republican party, but has never asked official position at the hands of his fellow-citizens. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. and Masonic fraternities, having taken a number of degrees in the latter, including that of Sir Knight. On the 30th day of April, 1850, was solemnized his marriage witli Miss Ellen Brazee, of Canada, a union blessed with the birth of six children, only two of whom — Philip H. and James W. — are living. Mr. and Mrs. Curran are members of the Methodist Church of Peru. WILLIAM F. DALY, lumber inspector for Indiana Man- ufacturing Company, was born in North Bridgeport, Fairfield County, Connecticut, on the 25th dav of September, 1842. His father, Dennis Daly, was a native of North Ireland, and his mother, Alvira (French) Daly, was born in the State of Connecticut. Mr. Daly's parents dying when he was quite young, earlv threw him upon his own resources and he made his first start in life as a boot black. This employment he subsequentlv abandoned for mechanical pursuits, engaging at the age of fifteen, to learn the trade of carriage making, which he followed in his native city until the breaking out of the war. In September, 1861, he en- tered the army, enlisting in Company I, Sixth Regiment Connec- ticut Infantry, with which he served until honorabl}- discharged three years later. During his period of service Mr. Daly took part in a number of engagements, among which were the follow- ing: Fort Wagner, Mackey's Point, siege of Port Pulaski, seiges of Forts Walker and Beauregard, all the battles around Charleston, Alosta, Fla., and Drury Bluff, Cit\- Point, Deep Bottom, Pittsburgh and others of the Virginia campaigns. On leaving the army he returned to Bridgeport and resumed liis trade until 1 866, when he accepted a position with the Wheeler & Wilson sewing machine companv, in their shops in that city. Two years later he took charge of the wood-work department in the Howe machine shops at Bridgeport, and continued as foreman of the same until promoted superintendent of the company's shops at Peru, Indiana, in 187 1. He was identified with the shops here until 1875, when he became foreman of the Muhltield wagon and dimension works, Peru, the duties of which position he dis- charged until 1880. In the latter vear he ensjajjed with the In- diana manufacturing companv, with which he has since been identified, holding at this time the responsible position of lumber BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 413 inspector. Mr. Daly is a public spirited citizen, takes an active interest in politics, and has been his party's candidate for different official positions. He served in the Common Council of Peru, and in the deliberations of that body bore a conspicuous part. He belongs to the G. A. R., Masonic, Roval Arcanum, and K. of H. orders; in politics, votes the Republican ticket. On the 25th of September, 1873, he married Miss Hattie M. Scott, daughter of Aaron B. Scott, a union blessed with the birth of two children, one of which, Nellie, born September 23, 1877, is living. ^GEORGE W. DEIBERT, assistant general foreman of the Wabash shops, came to Miami County in May, 1S54. Was born Octo- ber 28, 1833, in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, and is the second son of Jacob and Rosanna (Zimmerman) Deibert, natives of Pennsyl- vania, ^yho migrated to Indiana in 1854 and located in Peru. The father, who was b\' trade a carpenter, died in March, 18S1, and the mother and brother — Albert — in 1854, soon after their arrival in Indiana. The subject returned to his native counts', and on the 14th of February, 1857, was married to Miss Henrietta Wervert, a native of Schuylkill Count\-, Pennsylvania, of German origin. They were blest b}- the birth of five children, four of whom are now living — John, Frank, Florence, Georgie (girl), and Philip (deceased). In May, 1867, the subject returned to Peru and worked at the car- penter trade, which he learned when a boy. In the fall of 1868, engaged with the I., P. & C. R. R. in the car department, and con- tinued until June, 1872, when he assumed charge of that depart- ment. He is a Knight of Pythias and also an Encampment Odd Fellow, and was elected by the Republicans to the City Council, serv- ing from iSSoto 1884. REV. HERMAN H. DIEMER, pastor St. John's Luthern Church, Peru, and son of Christain Diemer, is a native of Wurtemberg, German}-, born on the 26th day of October, 1851. When he was ten years of age his parents left their native country for America, but before the com- pletion of the voyage the mother died and was buried in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The father died shortly after reach- ing the United States, and Herman, thus early left an orphan, was sent to Perr\- Count\-, Missouri, where, until his thirteenth year, he attended school at the town of Altenburgh. In 1869. he entered Concordia College, at Fort Wayne, Indiana, in which institution he pursued his studies for a period of six years with the object of the ministry in view. After securing a thoroughly classical education he entered Concordia Theological Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, which he attended three 3ears, completing the prescribed course in that time. In 1874 he entered upon the active duties of his sacred calling at Elkhart, Indiana, being the first minister of the Lutheran 414 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Church to proclaim the gospel in that city. He remained at Elk- hart until 1877, at which time he went to Fulton County, Ohio, where he was actively engaged in pastoral work until 1S83, moving to Pomeroy, Ohio, the latter year and remaining there until the spring of 1884, when he accepted the pastorate of St. John's Church, Peru, Indiana. Rev. Mr. Diemer is a popular pastor and eloquent and forcible pulpit orator, and since locating in this city has made many warm friends irrespective of church and creed. He was mar- ried July 6th, 1876, to Margaret Schuster, a union blessed with four children, viz. : Emma, Gerhart, Paul and Martin. AARON N. DUKES. The gentleman whose name intro- duces this sketch is a native of Randolph County, Indiana, and son of William and Matilda (McKim ) Dukes, the father born. in Maryland, and the mother in the State of Ohio. On the father's side he is descended from English ancestors, his grandfather, Isaac Dukes, emigrating from England to the United States in an earlv dav and settlintj in Marvland. William Dukes in earlv life moved to Randolph County, Indiana, where for a number of years he was alternately engaged in merchandising, milling and agricultural pursuits. He subsequentlv disposed of his interests in that part of the State, and in 1846 moved to Miami County, locating near the village of Gilead, where he lived until he re- moved to a beautiful farm adjoining the city of Peru, several years later. He was a prominent farmer and stock raiser, and deserves mention as one of the successful men of his adopted county. His death occurred in the year 1S78. His wife, Matilda Dukes, was the daughter of William and Jane McKim, who came to the United States from Ireland about the beginning of the present century. It is related that on the voyage to the new- world, the vessel on which they sailed encountered a terrific storm, which for a time threatened the complete destruction of all on board. The sails were riddled and torn by the fierce gale, and in order to mend them Mrs. McKim spun threads on a little spinning wheel which she was bringing over with her, the Cap- tain holding the wheel and Mr. McKim holding the chair in which she sat. By this means the sails were repaired, and in due time the vessel was enabled to proceed on its course in safet\-. Wil- liam McKim settled near Chillicothe, Ohio, but subsequently emigrated to Randolph Count}-, Indiana, where he lived until his removal to Miami County, about the year 1855. He was a farmer by occupation and died in the county in 1862. His wife survived him about eight years, departing this life in 1870. Mrs. Dukes, the mother of our subject, died at her home near Peru in 1874. T^he following are the names of the children born to William and Matilda Dukes, viz: A. X., Levi, Lydia, wife of Oliver Wilson, Jane, wife of John McRea, Mary, wife of Mr. BIOGRAl'IIKAL SKETCHES. 415 Parmley, Emma, wife of James Pugh, John, and Priscilla, wife of Dr. Frank Black. Aaron N. Dukes was born on tlie 27th day of October, 1S34; accompanied his parents to Miami County in 1846, and has been one of its most successful and highly esteemed citizens ever since. He attended the public schools during winter seasons, where he acquired a good practical education, and when out of school improved his time working on the farm, early acquainting himself w^ith the details of that useful occupation. He remained with his parents until his seventeenth year, at which time he abandoned agricultural pursuits and accepted the position of salesman in the mercantile house of E. H. Shirk, Peru, in which capacity he continued one year, effecting a co-partnership with his employer at the end of that time, in a general store at the town of Gilead. After remaining in the latter place about two years he dis- posed of his interest, and in 1S56 removed to Mankato, Minnesota, where until 1S62 he was engaged in merchandising, milling and dealing in real estate, retaining his connection with Mr. Shirk in the meantime. He returned to Peru, Ind.. in the latter year and from that date until 1865 was a partner of Mr. Shirk in the general mer- cantile business, their house during that period being one of the largest and most successful of the kind in Northern Indiana. He withdrew from the firm in 1865, and in partnership with J. H. Jamison engaged in the grocery and pork packing business, which branches of industry were conducted with financial protit until 1868, Mr. Dukes purchasing his partner's interest that year. Two years later he sold out and purchased what is knovyn as the Holman farm, adjoining the city of Peru, a part of which he subsequently laid off in town lots, known as Dukes' first and second additions. In the meantime he began dealing in real estate, a business he carried on quite extensively until 1881. In 1877 he was appointed assignee of the Ulrich wagon works of Peru, the duties of which position required the greater part of his time, until the satisfactory arrange- ment of the business in iSSi. In the latter year he was appointed receiver of the Indiana Manufacturing company of Peru, one of the largest manufacturing enterprises of the State, to which he has since devoted his entire attention. Mr. Dukes took an active part in the Sioux war of Minnesota in 1862, having been for some time in com- mand of the militar\- post of Mankato. His has been a very active business life, throughout which he has discharged his duty with commendable fidelity, proving himself worthy the confidence of his fellow citizens and competent to fill responsible positions intrusted to him. He is a Republican in politics, and a consistent member of the Presbvterian church, with which he has been identified since about the year 1854. In September, 1859, he was united in mar- riage to Miss Mary A. Thompson, daughter of Rev. James Thomp- son, the projector and one of the founders of Wabash College, at 4l6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTV. Crawfordsville. Mr. Thompson was a man of deep piety and scholarlj- attainments, and was actively engaged in the work of the Master for over half a century. He died in Minnesota in the year 1876. To Mr. and Mrs. Dukes have been born two children, to-wit: Elbert, born in i860, and William, born in 1862, died in 1871. JAMES S. DURET, Deputy Auditor Miami County, was born in Logansport, Indiana, Alarch 9, 1841, and is the second son of John B. and Elizabeth (Bell) Duret, natives respectively of Canada and Kentucky. John B. Duret accompanied General Louis Cass from Michigan to Indiana about the year 1824, and subse- quently in 1827 located permanently in Logansport. He took an active part in the organization of Cass County, and at the tirst elec- tion was chosen Clerk of the same, the duties of which position he discharged for a period of twenty-nine 3ears, or until his"death in 1855. He was married in 1828 to a daughter of Major Daniel Bell, who was the tirst person to make permanent settlement on the present site of Logansport, locating there as early as the year 1826. John B. Duret was a man of fine abiHty, and is remembered as one of the most accomplished officials of the county, in the welfare of which he took such an active interest. James S. Duret passed the years of his youth and early manhood in Logansport, attended the schools there until twelve years of age, when he entered Notre Dame University, in which institution he pursued his studies for a period of two years. Subsequently in 1857 and in 1858 he studied telegraphv, and for two years thereafter worked at the same. In Ma}-, 1863, he entered the army, enlisting in Company H, Eighty- seventh Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and in August of the same ^•ear was commissioned second lieutenant of his company, and as such served until honorably discharged. Previous to the war in 1859 he came to Peru, and subsequently, in 1863, was appointed Deputy Treasurer of Miami Count}-, the duties of which position he discharged for a period of six years. Then for a number of years he was employed in the railroad business, and held several important positions in that capacity until his appointment as Deputy County Auditor in 1881. He is still connected with the ofiice, and being deservedly popular and possessing unusual ability, may yet serve the public in a wider and more extensive sphere. He has led a remarkably industrious life, full of energy and of great force of character, and as an accomplished business man none in Peru stand higher than he. In January, 1861, he was united in marriage with Mi'ss Mary Miller, adopted daughter of James T. Miller, of Peru. He is a Democrat in polities, and in religion adheres to the creed of the Roman Catholic Church. HENRY DUTTON, was a native of Schoharie County, N- Y.; was born June 25, 1824, and was a son of Julius Dutton. a native of Connecticut. At the a^s BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 425 dixine of extensive erudition. In the year 1834, the subject of this notice came to Peru, Indiana, with a stock of merchandise under the management of one Samuel Pike, his employer, who who subsequentH became famous as a campaign editor of countless newspapers in many of the States, beginning with the Peru For- rester, the first newspaper printed and published in Miami County, Indiana.* In the j-ear 1838 Mr. Fulwiler's name was announced by his friends as a candidate to represent the counties of Miami and Fulton in the State Legislature, which he at first stoutly resisted '^or the reason that his views in regard to the simultaneous prosecu- .lon of all the public works which had been projected bv former Legislatures of the State, was so unpopular that there could be no hope of his election, but finall}- 3'ielded to the importunities of his friends, and he was defeated, as he expected to be. He was one of the few men of Indiana who at that time favored the classification of the public works, and the prosecution to completion of the most important work first. The people of the several counties had been led to believe that a road or canal would pass by their very doors and that "an additional hen and chickens would pay the additional tax." Hence a "classifier" was more odius to the people, if pos- sible, than an "aboHtionist." As they became more enlightened on the subject, however, they changed their views, and in the brief period of two years there was not to be found within the i^orders of the State a public man who would acknowledge him- self in favor of an indiscriminate prosecution of the thirteen projected works known as the "cow bill," ivnd classification became a popular word. In 1843 Mr. F. was called to the State of Pennsylvania to attend to the disposal of a large body of unpro- ductive land in Schuylkill County, being a part of his father's estate King in a mountainous region and traversed bv rich veins of anthracite coal, where, with the aid of miners from Potts- ville, in the spring of 1844, he located, opened up and leased thirteen veins of coal — among the number was the celebrated "mammoth vein," twenty-two feet in tiiicknes.s — and at the same time laid off the town of Fremont upon the premises. This town, situated as it is, in the midst of an extensive coal region, is now a prosperous little city. In 1847, Mr. F. was elected clerk of the Miami Circuit Court, which office he held until the 6th day of June 1855, when he was succeeded b\' Alexander Blake. In the vear 1S60, he was selected as a delegate at large for the State of Indiana to the Deiuocratic National Convention which nominated Stephen A. Douglass, at Baltimore, for Presi- dent of the United States, and was one of the committee of two *0n tlio 7th day of Miirfh, 1837, he wa.s married to Pauliiip Avaline, daughter of Francis Avaliiif, of Fort Wayne, hid., and sister of Francis .S. Av.iline, late iiro- prietor of the Avaline House, of Fort Wayne, a beautiful and accomplished lady. 426 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. from Indiana, who escorted Mr. Douglass, when on his presi- dential tour, from Cincinnati, Ohio, to hidianapolis, Indiana, and had Mr. Douglass been successful in the race, Mr. F. had rea- son to believe that a prominent position would have been reserved at Washington for his acceptance. In 1861 Mr. F. purchased of Messrs. Todd & Zerne, wholesale and retail grocers, their stock in trade: and in 1865 bought the undivided half of a furniture manufacturing establishment of Messrs. West & Jami- son, which burned to the ground within ten days after his pur- chase and before he had the same insured against fire. In 1868 he embarked, with considerable capital, in extensive purchases and sales of Kansas and Iowa lands, which, for a time, yielded him an immense proHt, but which eventualh' proved disastrous. In his present coflrt of judicature in the citj- of Peru, his duties are greatly facilitated by a course of legal studies pursued at an earlj- period of his life. Mr. F. has six children living and one deceased. Julia, his eldest daughter, married to Harry F. Clark, late super- intendent of the western division of the W., St. L. & P. Rail- road, at present manager of a western road with headquarters at Keokuk, Iowa: his second child, William died at Portsmouth, Washington Territorv, some years ago: Louis Berthelet, second son, is one of the editors and proprietors of the Miami County Sentinel: Clarence, late clerk in the W., St. L. & P. Railway offices at Toledo, is now a resident of Peru. Marv Frank is married to J. R. Hamlin, of the Merchants' Exchange, St. Louis; Ada Pauline, wife of William E. Clark, of Edwards\ille, Illinois; Frank, the youngest child of Mr. F., is clerk in a railroad office of the W., St. L. & P. Railway Company at St. Louis. All of his children are naturally bright and have had the advantages of good educations. " LOUIS B. FULWILER, editor of the Miami County Scn- iinch and son of James B. and Pauline (Avaline) Fulwiler, was born in Peru, Indiana, on the 13th day of July, 1842. He received a liberal education in the schools of his native city and began life for himself by accepting a position in the office of the Toledo, Peoria & Warsaw Railway, at Peoria, Illinois, where he remained only for a limited period. In 1861 he entered the army, enlisting in Company A, 20th Indiana Infantry, for the three years service, and with that noted regiment took part in some of the bloodiest battles of the war. In the se\'en days fight before Richmond, June 25, 1862, he had the misfortune to lose a limb, and being incapacitated for further service he was honorably discharged and returned home in October of the same year. In 1862 he was appointed deputy clerk of the Miami Circuit Coui-t, the duties of which position he discharged for a period of seven years. In 1870 he was elected Auditor of BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 427 Miami County, re-elected in 1874, ''""^ '^^^'^^ '^'^^ office two terms or ciijht years. In 1869 he entered the tield of journalism as editor of tlie Miami Count\- Sciiliiirl, with which paper he has since been identified and in which he now owns a one-half interest with Richard H. Cole. As the Sentinel is the exponent, so is Mr. Fulwiler's influence one of the prime fac- tors in moulding the character and action of, the Democratic party in Miami Count)'. He has proved himself a superior poli- tician, bold and zealous, undertaking what others deem impos- sible and being judicious and untiring, nearly always succeeds. Mental culture and strong common sense have developed and supplemented his natural talents, till all combined have made him one of the ablest newspaper writers in Northern Indiana. In 1869 he was united in marriage with Miss Cora L,. Scott, who was born in Logansport, Indiana, September 13, 1846. Mr. Fulwiler is prominently identified with the G. A. R. and K. of P. Orders. WILLIAM A. GIBNEY, Recorder of Miami County, the subject of this biographical sketch, is a native of Holmes Count}-, Ohio; the son of WilHam S. and Nancy (Landis) Gibney, and dates his birth from the 30th day of September, 1837. His parents were born in Faj'ette County, Pennsyhania, but early emigrated to Ohio, where they lived until their removal to Miami County, Indiana, in 1849. William S. Gibney was a farmer by occupation and died in Peru in 1873. His wife preceded him to the grave, departing this life in the year 186S. William A. Gibney passed the j^ears of his youth amid the active scenes of the farm, and in the common schools of the country received a fair English education, which, supplementing a practical knowledge such as books fail to impart, has enabled him to successfully discharge the duties of an active business life. He followed agricultural pursuits until 1865, at which time he abandoned the farm and engaged in saw-milling and rail- roading, which he followed some years, working at intervals, in the meantime, as deputy in the Sheriff's office. In 1871 he accepted a position in the railroad shops in Peru, later run as fireman on the I. P. & C, and was afterwards promoted baggage master at the depot in this cit\-, the duties of which position he discharged until 1879. In the meantime, 1878, he was elected Recorder of Miami County, and the following year severed his connection with the road in order to enter upon the discharge of his oflicial duties. He was re-elected in 1882, and at this time is nearing the close of his second term. In politics Mr. Gibney is an unflinching Democrat, evincing at all times a lively interest in the success of his jiarty upon the principles of political purity, rigidly averse to anything that savors of deception or trickery. His official record, together with his acknowledged integrity as a trustworthy and reliable Christian gentleman have 428 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. won for him a prominent place in the estimation of his fellow citizens, irrespective of part}- affiliation. He was married Sep- tember, i860, to Miss >Iary E. Ninon of Fayette County, Penn- sylvania, which union has been blessed with the birth of eleven children, seven of whom are living, viz.: George M., Lillie M., lona, Dora, Mattie, Pearl and Albert C. Mr. Gibney is an active member of the K. of H. and Odd Fellows fraternities, and with his wife, belongs to the Methodist church. HON. JOHN A. GRAHAM was born in Baldmore, Maryland, January 8, 1S17. His parents were natives of Ireland and emigra- ted to this countrv in 1815. They landed in Baltimore after under- going great hardships during a prolonged vovage in which thev narrowlv escaped being ship-wrecked. In 1826 the family removed to Pittsburgh, in 1827 to Wheeling, and in 1828 returned to Balti- more. In 1830 the}' went to Harper's Ferry, and finally in 1832 settled in Indiana." John A. Graham was employed at Harper's Ferry as clerk until 1835. I" May of that year, being then eighteen he started for Indiana. At Wheeling he took passage on a steam boat and was landed at mid-night, a solitary passenger at the mouth of the Wabash. He there expected to find a town filled with enterprising people; but he saw only a dreary waste of turbid waters. No sound greeted his ear but the hoot of the owl and the crash and crunch of the running drift. After sitting upon his baggage at the waters edge until near daylight, he discerned from the top of the bank something like a building in the obscurity of the morning fog and detected a faint sound of human voices coming from a point farther up the river. About a half mile from where he landed he found a steamboat bound for the upper Wabash: and after various adventures and detentions, he succeeded in reaching Peru. There he made arrangements for taking charge of a store in Logansport for Alexander Wilson. He remained in the latter place until the business was closed up, in June, 1835, when he returned to Peru. He acted as clerk for jNIr. Wilson until 1839 when he became a partner. The firm of Wilson & Co., packed pork in 1839. It was the first undertaking of the kind in the place and proved a financial failure, owing to the low water in the Maumee which pre\ented its quick transportation to New York. They built flatboats and in 1840 commenced sending pork to New Orleans. This also proved a failure on account of hard times and low prices. In 1841 and 1843 Mr. Graham was elected Sheriff of Miami county. In 1846 he was appointed clerk in the Wabash and Erie Canal Land Office. He held this place until 1847 when the office was moved to Logansport, under an act of the Legislature adjusting the State debt, known as the Butler Bill. He then bought the printing office at Peru and June 28, 1848 issued the first number of the Miami County Sentinel. This paper was successfully man- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 429 agod liy him, as editor and proprietor until 1861, when he sold out and retired from the editorial chair. In 1850 Mr. Graham was a delegate to the State Convention to form a new State Constitution. In 1870 he was elected clerk of the Miami Circuit Court and at dif- ferent times served as a member of the town and city council. He was special agent of the United States to pay the Miamis in the years 1857 and 1S59 and has held many other positions of trust. In 1 88 1 he was elected Mayor of the Cit}- of Peru, a position he holds at the present time. He has been a life long Democrat and in religion is a Roman Catholic. He was married to Caroline A. A\ aline in Peru, June 28, 1842; a famih' of three sons and six daugh- ters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Graham. Mr. Graham is below the average height but is heavily and compacth" built. He poss- esses a strong constitution and although having reached the allotted three score and ten vears, manv years of usefulness and honor may j'et remain to him. His opportunities for an education were limited but he has been a constant reader and has a wonderful memorv. He is recognized as the "Historian of Miami." As a writer he is fluent precise as to dates and figures, and full of humor. Few men pos- sess the confidence of the comnuinit\' in a more eminent degree. EDWARD T. GRAY. Sheriff of Miami County, is a native of Markham. Canada, and the son of Thomas and Margaret (Hines) Gray, the father born in Canada and the mother in Southampton, England. Mr. Gray was born on the 24th of Ma\-, 1836, and at the age of sixteen commenced to learn the blacksmithing and carriage making trades, at Norwich, Canada. At the age of twentv-live he came to Miami County, Indiana, and began working at his trade in the city of Peru, where he has since resided. In 1872 he purchased an- interest in the firm of H. Armantrout & Co., manufacturers of carriages, after which the name was changed to that of Armantrout & Gra}', under which title thev continued business until 187S. In that year Mr. Gray purchased the entire interest, and under his efficient man- agement, the concern soon became one of the leading manufac- turing establishments of its kind in the citv. Mr. Gray has always taken an active interest in local politics, and in 1S84 was elected on the Democratic ticket Sheriff of Miami Count}-, the duties of wliich position he has since discharged, having been re-elected in 1886. As a citizen Mr. Gray has the respect and confidence of all who know him, and as an official he is faithful and diligent discharging the duties of his position in a manner highly satisfactor}' to all concerned. He is a man of conscien- cious scruples and is ever read\' to do what he can to promote the interest of the public welfare. He is prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity, being a Royal Arch Mason, and in religion holds to the creed of the Episcopal church. On the 430 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. 31st of December, 1863, he married Miss Kate M. Wilson, of Peru, who has borne him three children, viz. : Alice, Nellie and Lewis Grav. WILLARD GRISWOLD, of the tirm of Griswold & Geves, hvery stable, was born in Watertown, New York, August 8, 1833, the third son of Daniel and Sarah ( Barry ) Griswold : parents natives of Vermont and of English ancestrv. Daniel Griswold moved to Miami Countv in 1844 and settled at the village of Mexico, where he followed the plasterer's trade a number of years and later engaged in the mercantile business. He was a man of considerable local prominence: took, an active part in the earlv growth of his adopted town, and departed this Hfe in the year 1858. Mrs. Griswold survived her husband fourteen years, dving in 1872. Willard Griswold received the advantages of a common school education in his native State, and shortly after coming to Indiana engaged as salesman in a store at Mexico, where he remained for a number of vears. At the breakin; the first brick 494 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. house in the township in 1856." In the year 1850 Sullivan Waite was kicked to death by a vicious horse, an occurrance that cast a deep gloom over the entire communit}-. The following incident shows the moral standing of two former residents of the township. "Men will trade cattle, houses, horses and lands without enlisting much attention, but when it comes to trading wives people will very naturally be astonished, and yet such a trade actuallv occurred at an early day within the borders of Allen. There were two farm- ers by the names of Adams and Hernsberger living not a great way apart. An intimacy sprang up between Mr. Adams and the wife of Hernsberger. At this there need be no surprise, for in the eves of Nineteenth Century, it has grown quite common for men to admire the wives of others more than they do their own. The friendship between the couple increasing an elopement was planned and a day fixed for putting the same into execution. At the appointed time thev stole away and quietly started on their journej'. Mr. Hernsberger, it seems, was on the alert, and the guilty pair had not proceeded far before they were overtaken by him. He did not approach rashly the dispoiler of his home with drawn revol- ver and shoot him dead upon the spot, but calmly, with the utmost composure, and in a business like manner proposed that since he (Adams) thought more of his (Hernsberger's) wife than he did of his own, if he would give him his wife and a small sum to boot, he might proceed on his way unmolested. Adams without the least hesitation accepted the proposition, and all parties concurring therein, the trade w as at once closed, and rumor says that they all li\ed in the enjoyment of domestic felicity ever afterwards." Cemeteries. — The two principal places of burial in i\llen Township are the Carvey cemetery, near Macy, laid out in an early day on the land of Matthias Carve}-, and the graveyard at Five Corners, where lie many of the first settlers of the county. Among the earliest burials in the former were Mr. and Mrs. Baily, Matthias Carvey and a child of William Hakins, and in the latter were laid to rest many years ago the bodies of Nathan Bryant, Matthias Harmon and a number of others whose names have long since been forgotten. Five Corners. — A straggling village in the western part of the township, so named on account of its location at the intersec- tion of several roads, was the nucleus of a very early settlement, and at one time achieved considerable reputation as a trading point. The place was never platted, being merely a thickly set- tled locality to which the term village can scarcely be applied, but it early became the chief source of supplies for a large area of territory in Miami and Fulton Counties. About the year 1857, or perhaps a little earlier, a stock of goods was brought to the place b\- Moses & Williams, who carried on a very successful Akp.>S.9^Ji 'iZd^ THE VILLAGE OF MACY. 497 business for a period of six or seven years. At the end of that time the store was purchased by Nathan Shackleford, who re- mained in business three years, when he sold out to William Harp, who had previously operated a general mercantile house at Wooleytown in Richland Township. After remaining about eighteen months Mr. Harp closed out within a short time, L. Carl began merchandising, and continued with fair success for over a year, when he moved his stock of goods to Macy, his store being the last business venture at the Corners. A postotiice was established in 1859, with Nathaniel Bryant as postmaster. The last postmaster was L. Carl, who had charge of the office when it was moved to Macy. At one time the place gave promise of a bright future on account of its remote location from any other trading point, but the completion of the I., P. and C. railroad through the country a couple of miles distant and the springing up of the town of Macy, served as an effectual check to its anticipations, and all that now distinguishes the village from the surrounding neighborhood are a church and school house, with a few dwellings in close pro.ximit}'. Macy — The thriving villege of Macy is situated near the central part of the township and dates its history from June, i860 at which time the original plat, consisting of twenty lots was laid out bv George and Anderson Wilkinson, under the name of Lincoln. The village was the immediate outgrowth of the I., P. & C. Rail- road and soon became the principal shipping point on said road between the cities of Peru and Rochester. One of the earliest resi- dents of the town was William Cordell, who built a blacksmith shop a short time after the plat was made, and about the same time John G. Inscho, a carpenter, purchased lot 15 and erected thereon a dwelling which is still standing occupied at the present time by Mrs. 13err\-. These men followed their respective vocations for several ^■ears and found abundant employment during the early settlemants and building up of the town. Nelson Wilkinson bought lot No. 20 and built a residence thereon sometime in i860 and the same year another building, in which was kept the tirst store was erected In- George Wilkinson a short distance west of Mr. CordelFs shop. Mr. Wilkinson brought a large stock of general merchandise to the place and for about three years carried on a fairly successful trade, closing out at the end of that time and retiring from business. The next merchants were J. W. Hurst and A. L. Norris, who engaged in business as partners prior to 1869, using the Wilkinson building for their store room. In the meantime the influx of population con- tinued such, that an addition to the town became necessary. Con- sequently in June, 1869, a plat of eighty lots was made and offered for sale by Messrs. Wilkinson and Powell. These lots found ready purchasers and within a short time quite a number of residences 498 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. and business houses were erected in the new addition; among which was the store room now occupied by O. Case. This building was erected by Hurst and Norris and in the fall of the above year another business house was erected on lot 29, same addition, by L. Carl, who from that time until the present has been prominently identified with the business interests of the town. In May, 1871, David Enyart laid out an addition of thirty-two lots, the majorit}- of which were soon purchased and improved. The firm of Hurst and Norris lasted but a short time the latter retiring at the expira- tion of about one 3'ear. Mr. Hurst continued the store some time longer and in connection with his mercantile business engaged in the grain trade which he still carries on being at the time the most extensive and successful buyer between the cities of Peru and Rochester. L. Carl brought a stock of goods from Five Corners in 1869 and with the exception of about one year has been one of Macv's leadinij merchants ever since. Frank ErnsberjTer enx of JS/amc, and Incorporation. — As already stated, the town of Macy was surveyed and recorded under the name of Lincoln, and was known as such until about the year 1875. The near location of another and older town of Lincoln, in Cass County, together with the name of Allen, by which the post office was originally known, gave rise to much confusion and no little trouble in the shipment of goods and the sending of mail matter. To obviate this ditficulty the citizens of the town presented a peti- tion to the County Board praying that the name be changed from Lincoln to Macy, which was duly granted in 1875, "^"^ about the same time the postoffice department was petitioned to change the name of the ofiice to correspond with the name of the town. The latter petition had the desired effect also, and since the adoption of the one name for both office and town, a great deal of annoyance consequent upon the missending of mail and merchandise has been avoided. The postoffice was removed from Five Corners in 1869, and Mr. L. Carl had the honor of being the tirst postmaster of Macy. The present postmaster is Dr. M. 500 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. M. Boggs. In 1884, the citizens of Macy desiring to ascertain whether public sentiment was in favor of erecting and maintain- ing a town corporation, called an election to decide the same. A full vote was cast, with a very decided majority in favor of the corporation, in consequence of which, the town was divided into three districts, and the following Board of Trustees elected, viz: M. Freeland, Jeremiah Hatch and A. C. Waite. The officers of the town at this time are M. Freeland, Oliver Jenkins and Albert Hakins, Trustees; J. D. Belt, Clerk; John Cloud, Marshal and L. Carl, Treasurer. School Bttihh'iii^s. — The first school building was a frame structure built in the southwestern part of the town some time in the seventies. The original building was subsequentlj- enlarged b}' the addition of an upper storv, making in all three good rooms, which served to accommodate the pupils of the town until 1880. In that vear the Township Graded School-house, a beau- tiful brick edifice of eight rooms, was built at a cost of over $6,000. This is one of the finest and most commodious school buildings in the county, and is an improvement of which the citizens of Macv rnaj' justly feel proud. L.odgrs. — Lincoln Lodge, Xo. 523, F. and A. M., was insti- tuted August 16, 1875, ^^'^ membership at date of organization be- ing eleven, of which the following were elected to fill the various offices, viz.; J. W. Hurst, W. M. : Daniel Mussulman, S. W. ; Valentine Thompson, J. W. ; Frederick Hoffman, Treasurer; F. B. Hart, Secretary; J. B. Hurst, S. D.; H. Hoover, J. D., and John Zartman, tyler. The other original members w'ere Dr. M. M. Boggs, W. R. Marshall and Daniel Ross, and the first person initi- ated was J. S. Washington. The lodge has enjoved a fair degree of prosperitv, and at the present time has the names of thirtv-three active members upon the records. The officers for 1886 are as fol- lows: Ira B. Hurst, W. M.; A. P. Carvey, S. W.; W. H. Day, J. W. ; Da\id Black, Secretary; Abner C. Waite, Treasurer; A. S. Benedict, S. D.; J. W. Carvey, J. D.; S. W. Tracy, Tyler: Onis Case and J. S. Washington, Stewards, and A. L. Norris, Chaplain. Allen Lodge, No. 540, I. O. O. jF., was instituted November 23, 1876, with the following charter members, viz. : W. R.Mar- shall, Easton A. Guyer, Oliver Jenkins, J. R. Cunningham, C. C. Johnson and G. P. Franklin. The first officers were W. R. Marshall, N. G.; Oliver Jenkins, V. G.; Azro Wilkinson, Secre- tar}', and Milton Enyart Treasurer. Meetings were held in the Grange Hall until the winter of 1876, at which time the present hall, on the principal business street of the town, was erected, which, with the other lodge propert\-, represents a capital of about $1,400. The growth of the lodge has been steady and healthful, and although not so strong in numbers as formerly, is still in SECRET SOCIETIES. 50I good condition, with an active membership of thirty-four. For the vear 1886 the officers are: Thomas Powell, N. G.; Wm. F. Wilkinson, Treasurer, and J. Norman, Secretary. Mvstic ycii'cl Lodge No. 210, Daughters of Rebecca, was established January 15, 1881, with seventeen charter members, whose names are as follows: D. K. Ogden, Mrs. E. A. Ogden, Henrv Pulver, Mrs. C. B. Pulver. W. R. Marshall, Mrs. Sarah Marshall, Geo. W. Ogden, Mrs. Sarah Ogden, William F. Wilkin- son, Oliver Jenkins, Mrs. Oliver Jenkins, A. H. Wilkinson, Etta Wilkinson, E. Chapen, Mrs. E. Chapen, C. C Johnson and Mrs. A. J. Johnson. At this time the membership is about twenty, and the organization is reported im a prosperous condition. The following are tlie present officers: Nancy Freeland, N. G.; Sarah Cloud, V. G.; William F. Wilkinson, Sec, and Elizabeth Ogden, Treas. Charles Wailc Post No. 7/, G. A. R. was organized in the year iSSi, with a membership of nineteen, a number which was increased from time to time, until fortv-five names were on the roll. Owing to \arious causes a spirit of dissatisfaction early manifested itself in the organization, and such was the disaffection that a number of members withdrew from the Post altogether. These were followed from time to time by others, and the membership, in October, 1866, numbered about nineteen. The first commander was F. D. Hart, after whom were elected in regular succession, Abner Waite, Joseph Hoover and J. B. Hatch. The officers at this time are H. C. Day, Commander; George Shackleford, S. V. C. ; Thomas Powell, Officer of the Day: Joseph Wikel, Officer of the Guard; Augustus Brownmiller, Clerk; Samuel Tracy Adjutant and Abner Waite, Chaplain. In addition to the organizations mentioned, there is in the vil- lage a flourishing society of the Patrons of Husbandry, established a number of years ago, with a large membership, among which are a number of the best farmers in the township. At one time the society maintained a general store, which lasted several years, and in addition to this investment a beautiful hall was erected, in which the meetings are still held. The organization, while not so strong numerically as formerly, has still an active and wide awake mem- bership, and from present indications, promises to remain a fixture of the town for 3-ears to come. Churches. — The Methodist Episcopal Church of Macy was organized a number of years prior to the foundation of the town, the first meeting of the society having been held at the resi- dence of Anderson Wilkinson as early as the year 1842. Soon after the first settlement of the township had been made, itinerants of the Methodist persuasion began to visit the locality where Macy now stands, delivering their messages of peace and good will to audiences consisting of a few scattered settlers. 502 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. who, not infrequently, were brought together through the in- strumentality and patient searching out and earnest solicitation of the messengers themselves. One of these early circuit riders was Reverend Ansel Beach, to whom the credit is due of sow- ing the first seed which, under his careful culture, germinated and in due time developed into what is now the Macy church. After holding several meetings Mr. Beach determined to gather the few Methodist families into a class, which was accordingly accomplished. Among the earliest members composing said class were George Wilkinson, Thomas Clemens and wife. D. Wilkinson and wife, Elijah Ogle and wife, Stewart Bailey and wife, Anderson Wilkinson and wife, Baldwin Wilkinson and wife, James Wilkinson and wife and Anna Rains. Meetings were held at private residences by this nucleus of a church until about the year 1844, at which time steps were taken to provide a house of worship more in keeping with the growing conefretration. Accordinjfly a lot at the cross roads where Macy now stands was donated by George Wilkinson, and in due time a comfortable log structure 20x24 feet was erected. It was used for the two-fold purpose of church and school house for several years, but was tinalh- abandoned as a meeting place on account of an addition to the building, which interfered with the arrangement of the audience room. After this the meetings were held at the residences of the several members, and in i860 the village school house, erected that year, was opened for public worship. The growth of the village brought addi- tional members into the society, and in the course of time the school house became insufHcient to meet the wants of a greatly increased membership. Consequently ftieasures were inaugurated to supply that want by the construction of a new liouse in which to worship. Lot No. 60, in Wilkinson and Powell's addition, was procured, and the erection of the present hand- some frame edifice occupying that site was completed and formally dedicated in the year 187 1. The building is 33x45 feet in size, with a seating capacity of about 400, and was erected at a cost of about $1,400. Commencing in an early day, the following are among the ministers who have sustained the relation of pastor at this point, viz: Daniel F. Strite, H. J. Lacy, L. Roberts, Nelson Green, Allen Skillman. Paul Jones, William Vigus. Jacob Colclazer, George Gill. Arthur Badiey, J. C. Metsker. Sanuiel AVoolpert, J. C. White. Robert Calvert. "P. Garland. Mr. Stephens. N. Shackle- ford, Adam Curry, R. J. Smith, Mr. Bell. Peter S. Cook, J. Lee, J. K. Waltz, Mr. Girard, A. J. Lewellen, A. J. Cary and the present pastor, Rev. J. P. Belt. The church has been a potent factor for good in the community, and has been maintained with a constantly THE CHURCHES. 503 increasing membership. Tlie cliurch officers at this time are Isaac Mullican and M. Freeland, class leaders, and S. S. Tracy, steward. The Sunday school is in a health}- and prosperous condition, and has an averaije attendance of about seventv-rtve. A. L. Norris is the efficient superintendent. C/iristiiiii Church of Alacy. — About the year 1868, Elder Aaron Walker, of Kokomo, Indiana, one of the ablest ministers of the Disciples' Church in the State, was invited by some of the friends accepting his form of belief to visit Macy with the object of ministering to their spiritual wants; and if practicable organize the scattering members into a church. Pursuant to that invitation he came here, and after laboring successfully for some months succeeded in organizing a society of about twenty- five or thirtv; a number of whom had previously belonged to a church in Fulton County. Elder Walker continued to visit the village at intervals preaching acceptably to large audiences including the congregation over which he exercised a watcful but kindly care. Under his ministrations the society increased in numbers and a good influence was spread abroad, services being held regularly, notwithstanding a stated house of worship had not vet Ijeen provided. To supply this want the school house was used for meeting purposes until 1872, at which time the conLrreffation set about devising means for the erection of a 1 -1 • 1 proper place of worship. The movement was heartily received bv the co-operation of all members of the congregation and the year 1873 found the society in the occupancy of a neat and commodious brick chapel in the original plat of the village, erec- ted and furnished at a cost of $2,500. From that time until the jircsent, the membership has constantly increased, numbering at this time over one hundred in creditable standing. The min- strations of Elder Walker e.xtended over a period of about thir- teen years and were the means of keeping alive and active, the working elements of the congregation. Subsequently, Elder John Rohrer accepted the pastorate, and after laboring with efficiency and zeal for one year, was succeeded by Elder L. H. Jameson who preached in an able and satisfactory manner for the same length of time. His labors were crowned with eminent success anci the evidence of his devotion to the cause he represented will long remain to remind his people of the master spirit who ministered to them so lovingly in the past. The next minister was Elder Luke Warren after whom came Elder Huff, W. T. McGowan and I. X. Grisso, all of whom earned the reputation of earnest and able defenders of Apostolic Christianity. Since the expiration of Elder Grisso's term of service, the Church has been without a regular pastor; the services at this time being con- ducted bv leading lav members of the congregation, thus pre- 504 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. venting a subsidence of interest in the observance of Christian duties. At present the society is in every way in a healthful condition, indicating unmistakably that the members are fully alive to the spiritual welfare of the community in which they have alread}' accomplished so much good. The present officers are T. G. Horton, John Abbott and P. M. Carvey, Elders; James Hurst, I. B. Hurst and John Champ, Deacons; P. M. Carvey, Addison Horton and John Cliamp, Trustees. The Sunday School, under the efficient superintendenc}' of L. J. Hurst is doing a good work in the communit}-. The school numbers about seventy, including teachers and pupils. Macy Cornet Band was organized in the year 1881 with about ten or twelve members. Since then many changes have been made and at the present time the band is composed of the fol- lowing efficient corps of musicians: Vester Carvey, E flat Cornet; Schuyler Arnold, Solo B flat; Henry Norris, Solo- Alto; William Day, First Alto; L. J. Hurst, Second Alto; C. H. Norris, Baritone; Thomas Savage, First B flat; L. J. Savage, Second Tenor; Charles Palmer, B flat Bass: John Carvey, Tuba. R. M. Belt, snare drum. William Wilkinson, bass drum. The band is a credit to the town and one of which her citizens may feel proud. Present Population and Business. As a mercantile and ship- ping point the town of Macy is second to no other place of like size and population in Indiana. Its growth, during the first five vears of its history, was more rapid than at any time since, and during that period the amount of grain and stock shipped was greater than that billed from any other stations of its size between Peru and Michigan City. Its reputation as a grain market is still kept up, its remote location from larger towns making it the chief shipping place for a large area of countrj' in the Counties of Miami and Fulton. The population at this time is about 600 and the business is represented by the folio wino; retjister : Carl & Hakins, (jeneral merchandise: Clend- ing & Waite, dealers in general merchandise: Cloud & Son, general stock; O. Case, dealer in hardware; John Cloud, restaurant: J. B. Hatch and J. C. Fenimore, hotels; Miss C. Cofllan, milliner; Mrs. Caroline Carl, milliner; Mrs. Henrv Cloud, milliner: Henrv C. Ew- ing and James Sheets, butchers: W. R. Marshall and Henry Pnlver, blacksmiths and waiTon-makers; D. K. Ofrden, shoe-maker: ]. W. Hurst, grain and stock buyer: John Champ, manufacturer of drain tile; M. Lew. Enyart, attorney-at-law ; Ogden & Abbott, barbers and jewelers; L. J. Hurst, railroad agent. Birmingham. — The village of Birmingham situated on the I. P. & C. Railroad, in section 29 and 30, township 29, north; range 4, east, was laid out November, 1868, by Solomon Jones and Isaac Caulk. The original plat embraces quite an extensive area and consists of 122 lots, traversed b}- the following streets: Main, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 505 Third, Fourth, Sixth and Seventh, running east and west; and Prairie, Jones and Spring streets, north and south. The town was platted solely for speculative purposes, but the growth failed to come up to the expectations of the proprietors, the unfavorable location proving the chief detriment to its success. It has never been a place of extensive business, but has always enjoyed a fair proportion of the current trade. The population does not proba- bly exceed one hundred, but the place is supplied with all the neces- sary auxilliaries of the kind and qualit\- of trade demanded bv the people in the countr}' immediately surrounding. A large steam saw mill was the first industry of the village, and for several years after its erection an immense amount of lumber was manufactured and shipped on the I. P. & C. Railroad. At this time a saw mill, blacksmith shop, and one small general store, constitute the sum total of the business interests of the place. Wagoner'' s, a small railroad station in section i, near the Fulton County line, is a local trading point of some importance. It has a steam saw mill and one general store which does a fairly prosper- ous business. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. ALBERT M. ARNOLD, Principal of the Macy Schools, is a native of Butler Township, this County, and was born Feb- ruary 16, 1856. He was the second son born to William M. and Mary B. (Mowbray) Arnold, both natives of Ohio. The former came with his parents to this County about 1846, and the latter located in Peru in 1837. When Albert was seven ^ears old his parents removed to Fulton County, where he worked upon his father's farm until he was sixteen years of age. The father died in Fulton County in 1871, after which our subject, in compan}- with his mother and other members of the family, returned to Butler Township. Here Albert worked upon a farm in summer, and attended the public schools at Santa Fe until the fall of 1877. At that time he took up the avocation of a teacher. In this capacity he has been actively engaged ever since. In the fall of 18S4, he was elected to the Principalship of the Schools of Macy, which position he has held ever since. In the meantime he has improved his education by attending the Academy at Amboy in this County three terms, and the Normal School at Lebanon, Ohio, one term. October i, 1884, he was married to Anna C. Miller, a native of Butler Township, born April 17, 1865. She was the daughter of Abram and Anna (Erbaugh) Miller, both natives of Rockingham County, \'a. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold have born to them one child — a son, born October 14, 1886. They are members of the M. E. Church. In politics Mr. Arnold is a 5o6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Republican. He is an earnest, faithful worker in the schoolroom, and ranks among the best teachers of the countv. MRS. SUSAN BAKER, of Allen Township, was born in Cumberland County, Penns}l\ania, Jul)- 9, 1820. She was the daughter of Henry and Eve (Layman) Messenger, both natives of Pennsylvania, of Dutch descent. When Susan was nine years old her parents emigrated to Wayne Countv, Ohio, where she grew up to womanhood, and where on the 23d day of August. 1846, she was married to Timothy Baker. He was a native of New Jersey, and was born December 13, 1810. He was the son of John and Charity (Cole) Baker, both natives of New Jersey. In 185 1 Mrs. Baker and her husband came to this countv and located upon a farm in Perry Township. There her husband pursued the vocation of a farmer, until in April, 1881, at whicli time the}' they located where our subject now resides in Allen Township. There the death of her husband occurred April 4, 1884, since which time Mrs. Baker has been a widow. She is the motht-r of seven children, three of whom are living. Their names are Henry, Deborah, Sarah J., Maria, John and two daughters who died in infancy unnamed. Mrs. Baker is a member of the M. E. Church. She has a comfortable home one-half mile east of Macv, where she resides in a quiet, pleasant way. DR. JOHN BARNES, of Macy, was born in Harrison County, Va., August 29, 181 5. He was the third son born to William and Ehzabeth (Hull) Barnes, natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, respectively; the former of German and the latter of English de- scent. When our subject was eleven years old his parents came to Ohio and located in Richland County, where his youth was spent \vorking upon his father's farm. At the age of twenty-two he began the study of medicine with Dr. J. C. Howard, of Manslield, Ohio. After three years of preparation he entered upon the prac- tice of medicine with Dr. John Palmer, of Leesville. Ohio. In 1845 he came to this State and located near Somerset, Wabash County, where he continued to practice his profession. He came to this county and located at Santa Fe in 1847. In the spring of 1865 he removed to Gilead, this county, and in November, 1879, he located at Macy. September 25, 1844, he was married to Nancy Bebout, a native of Richland County, Ohio, born Decem- ber 29, 1823. She was the daughter of Peter and Nancy (Kelly) Bebout, both natives of Pennsylvania, the former of French and the latter of Irish descent. Mr. and Mns. Barnes are the parents of seven children. Their names are Abram, Elizabeth, Sarah, Nathaniel, Martha A., Mary E. and Arthur W. Of these Sarah, Nathaniel and Mar}- E. are deceased — the first two in infancy and the last at the age of nineteen. Dr. and Mrs. Barnes are members of the M. E. church. In politics, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 507 Mr. Barnes is a Republican. He is now comfortably located in Macv, where he and his wife are spending their old days in a pleasant, happy way. He has been in the practice of medicine over fort}- years, and as such he has been \'ery successful. His success is evidenced by the fact that while a resident of Wabash Count\- lie was in active practice three years without losing a single case. He has now resided in Miami County nearh- forty 3-ears, and is one of its most highly respected citizens. JAMES D. BELT, Teacher in" the Public Schools of Macy, was born in Allen Township, this county, April 30, i860. He was the oldest son born to William and Ellen (Davis) Belt, natives of Ohio and Indiana, respectively, the former of English and the latter of Dutch descent. James spent his boyhood and \outh working upon a farm. During this time he attended the district school, in which he received a good, common education. At the age of twenty he took up the avocation of a teacher. He taught his first term of school at Macy during the winter of 18S0-1, and has since taught six successive winters. In the fall of 1884 he was elected to teach the primary department of the Macy Schools, which position he has held ever since. As such he has discharged his duties in a manner that reflects very creditably upon himself. December 23, 1883, he was united in marriage to Elmira Kamp, who died February 22, 1884. He was again married on the 22nd of April, 1886, to Mrs. Amanda Seidner, whose maiden name was Amanda Fishlev. Mr. Belt is a mem- ber of the Christian Church, and a Prohibitionist in politics. He is an exemplary young man of irreproachable character, and as a teacher, he is an earnest and successful worker, and ranks among the best instructors in the county. In May, 1885, he was elected to the office of Clerk of the town of Macy, and is the present incumbent. MILTON M. BOGGS, M. D., of Macy, was born in New Castle, Henry County, this State, January 10, 1830. He was the second son born to James and Martha H. (Stinson) Boggs, the former a native of Virginia, of Irish descent, and the latter a native of Tennessee, of Scotch descent. While our subject \\as yet a child, his parents removed to LaPorte County, this State, where thev located on a farm. In 1839 the}' removed to a farm in Kosciusko County. There the death of his father occurred in 1842, after which Milton returned to Laporte County, where he worked on a farm by the month until April 17, 1847, at which time he entered the service of the United States in the Mexican war, from which he was honorably discharged in August 184S. He participated in several small skirmishes, but no import- ant engagements. At the close of tiie war he returned to Lees- burg, Kosciusko County, where he began the study of medicine. 5o8 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. After three years of diligent study, he entered upon the practice of medicine at Palestine, that county- He removed to Fulton, Fulton County, in 1854, "^"^ '" 1859 he located upon a farm which he had purchased in Cass County, in the vicinity of which he continued to practice his profession until in August, 1861. At that time he responded to his countr3''s call, and organized Company E, Twenty- ninth Indiana Infantry. He served with this company in the capac- ity of captain until in March, 1862, when, owing to a disability received while in active service, he resigned and returned to his home in Cass County. He located at North Manchester, Wabash County, in 1866, where he practiced medicine until May 19, 1870, when he came to this county and located at Macy. He engaged in the drug business in that place in 1875, since which his attention has been directed between that and the practice of his profession. He has a commodious store room, well stocked, and is doing a good business. In October, 1852, he was married to Emeline Miller, who died in February, 1856. April 8, 1857, he was married to Mary Penrose, who died in January, 1867. He was married again to Mrs. Mary Hanna on the 26th of May, 1870. In all, Mr. Boggs is the father of six children — Emma A., Joseph E., Alice V., Minnie W., Miltie and Myrtie M. The rirst four were born to his second wife and the last two to his third wife. Of these Joseph E., Miltie and Mrytie M. are deceased. Mr. Boggs is a member of the Christian Church and of the F. and A. M. and G. A. R. Lodges. Politically he is a Democrat. He received the appointment of postmaster at Macy in October, 1885, which office he continues to hold. Dr. Boggs is a pleasant, intelligent gentleman, a successful practitioner and business man and a good citizen. ROBERT P. BRIGGS, a prominent citizen of Allen Town- ship, is a native of Richland County, Ohio, and was born May 25, 1835. He was the second son born to Robert Briggs, a native of England, who emigrated to America in 1833 and located in Rich- land County, Ohio. When our subject was two years old his parents removed to Hardin County, Ohio, where his early life was spent upon a farm. In the spring of 1857 he went to Missouri, where he was engaged in agricultural pursuits until the fall of 1861, at which time he returned eastward to this county and located in Butler Township; He removed to Allen township and settled where he now resides in the fall of 1865. He entered Company D, 99th Ind. Vols., in August, 1862. with which he served in a manner becoming a loval soldier until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Jackson, Mission Ridge, Resaca, Ken- nesavv, the siege of Atlanta and the battle of Fort McAllister, Ga. At the siege of Atlanta he was struck by a spent ball just over the heart. Oct. 21, 1855, he was married to Mary J. Elder, a native BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 509 of Hancock County, Ohio, born June 14, 1837. She was the daughter of Jeremiah and Adelia (Miller) Elder, both natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Briggs have had nine children: Adelia C, Ruth A., Uala M., James M., Susan A., Albert M., Avice I., Jennie L. and Elizabeth L., all of whom are living exxept Susan A., who died in the ninth year of her age. Mr. and Mrs. Briggs are mem- bers of the Christian Church. In politics, the former is a Republi- can. Our subject and his wife are the owners of one hundred and sixty acres of land, one hundred and thirty of which is in culti\a- tion. He is an industrious and successful farmer and a worthy and honored citizen. LOUDEN CARL, merchant at Macy, and one of the pioneers of this county, was born in Darke County, Ohio, No- vember 25, 1828. He was the oldest son born to Matthew and Anna (Suffield) Carl, natives of New York and Kentuck}^ res- pectively. When our subject was about twelve years old his parents came to this county and located in Jefferson Township, where he spent his youth working upon his father's farm. At the age of eighteen he began to learn the carpenter's trade. This received his attention, more or less, for ten j-ears. In 1855 he went to Iowa, but in 1862 he returned to this State and lo- cated upon a farm in Cass County. In 1867 he returned to this countv and located at Five Corners, in Allen Township. There he was engaged in the mercantile business until 1S69. In that year he located at Macy, erected the first business house in the town, and continued in the mercantile business. He entered into a partnership with Albert Hawkins in February, 1884. They now have a commodious store-room, well stocked with dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, and are doing a good business. April 20, 185 1, he was married to Caroline Enyart, b}" whom he has had three children. Their names are Minerva P., Marion B., and Ida E., the last of whom died at five years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Carl are members of the M. E. church. In politics, Mr. Carl is a Republican. While a resident of Iowa he held the office of Township Trustee one term. He has also been honored with the Town Treasurer's ofiice in Mac^• ever since the town was incorporated. He is a pleasant, intelligent gentle- man, an enterprising and successful business man and a No. i citizen. ONIS CASE, of Macy, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, April 25, 1845, He was the youngest son born to Onis and Sarah (Williams) Case, natives of Wa\ne and Seneca Counties, Ohio, respectively. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth in his native county working upon his father's farm. In March, 1864, he came to this county and located upon a farm in Perry Township. He enlisted in Company A., 155th Indiana Regiment, in February, 5IO HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. with which he served until the close of the war. (It is worthy of note that our subject and his four elder brothers all served in the Union Arniv and that all are still living). He resided in Perry Township until 1876. At that time he located in Macy and engaged in the hardware business. This has received his attention ever since. He now has a commodious little store room, well stocked, and is doing a good business. January i, 1868, he was married to Rhoda A. Dukes, by whom he has had two children, Rollie and Ethel, both of whom are living. Mr. Case is a member of the M. E. Church and of the F. & A. M. Lodge. In politics, he is a Republican. In 1882 he was elected Justice of the Peace, and was re-elected in 1886. He is an enterprising and successful business man and a good citizen. ISAAC CAULK, a prominent citizen of Allen Township, was born in the city of Philadelphia, March 27, 1S31. He was the only son born to Oliver and Rachel G. (Cox) Caulk, both natives of Maryland, but of English descent. When Isaac was a voLith of thirteen years, his parents came to this county and located up^n a farm in Allen Township. There the father and mother spent the rest of their lives, their respective deaths occur- ing in October, 1869, and December, 1885. At the time of tlieir deaths the father was seventy-eight and the mother had reached the advanced age of ninety-four. Our subject remained upon the farm, engaged in agricultural pursuits, until the fall of 1873, at which time he located in the town of Birmingham. Since then his attention has been given to the grain business, and to mercantile pursuits. October 15, 1873, he was married to Lunetta A. Fobes, by whom he has had five children, Oliver M., Nellie A., HaiT)- P., Lunetta Grace, and Fred G. The second, Nellie A., died in the fifth year of her age. By virtue of his birth, Mr. Caulk is a member of the Friends' Church. Politicall}-, he is a Republican. He has held the position of postmaster at Birm- ingham since Jul}' 28, 1869. He has also held the Railroad Agency for the same length of time. He is an enterprising and intelligent man, and a worthy and honored citizen. JOHN CHAMP — Farmer and tile manufacturer, at Macy, was born in Piqua County, Ohio, April 8, 1830. He was the son of Joseph and Martha Ann (Baggs) Champ, natives of Ken- tucky and Virginia respectively, the former of Scotch-Irish and the latter of German descent. The father of our subject died when the latter was but seven years old. When he was ten years old his widowed mother and five children came to this county and first located at Peru. That was in 1840. Five years later they located upon the present site of Somerset, Wabash Count)- and erected the first house in that place. In about 184S they returned to Peru. They removed to a farm in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 5II Kosciusko County in 1S50. About two years later they reftioved to Cass County and located in the vicinity of the Huldah Iron Works, four miles east of Logansport. John took a position in that establishment, which he continued to hold four years. In 1856 he and his mother located upon a farm in Adams Town- ship, Cass County. In 1864 he removed to a farm which he had purchased in Fulton County. In Februar}- 1865, he enlisted in Compan}- F., 151st Indiana Volunteers, from which he received an honorable discharge in the following November. In the spring of 1876 he again came to this couiit\- and this time located at Mac}-. He owns a farm adjoining that place which he superin- tends, and in connection with this he is engaged quite extensively in the manufacture of tile, having entered into a partnership in that business in 1878, with Peter Carvey. June 23, 1859, ^^ ^^''^^ married to Sarah M. Scott, a native of Preble County, Ohio, born March iS, 1839. She was the daughter of Daniel and Ellen M. (Dilhorn) Scott, natives of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the for- mer of Scotch and the latter of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Champ have never had any children of their own, but are the foster parents of eight children, six of whom are living. Out subject and his wife have been members of the Christian Church over thirty years. The former is a member of the F. & A. M. and G. A. R. Lodges and a Prohibitionist in politics. In the fall of 1876 he was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace and served one term. He is an industrious and successful farmer and business man and a worthy and honored citizen. THOMAS CLEMANS, a venerable and aged citizen of Allen Township and pioneer of the countj', was born in Champaign County, Ohio, November 10, 181 1. He was the fifth in a family of eleven children born to Isaac and Elizabeth (Carpen- ter) Clemans, who were natives of New Jersey and Virginia, respectively. He chose for his life work the occupation of a farmer. As early as 1835, he came to this county and settled in the woods of Allen Township, where the deer, wild turkeys and Indians were plenty. He immediately set about clearing a farm, and to do this, naturally devolved upon him a great deal of hard work. His strong constitution and iron will, however, proved equal to the emer- gencs', and these coupled with an indefatigable pluck and energy, enabled him to con\ert his wilderness home into beautiful and well- tilled fields. Unlike most of the early settlers he did not stop at one conquest over the forest, nor two, but for a third time he settled down in the woods and experienced the hardships of the sturdy pioneers. Three of the best farms in Allen Township were placed in a state of cultivation through labor performed b}' his own hands. He was not only courageous but fearless as well. Nothing will serve better to illustrate his braver}- than the following incident. 512 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. which occurred one day while he was riding on horseback, in the vicinity of his habitation, with some loose horses that belonutler, to-wit: Eclnuind Wright, near the Wabash Count}' line; Michael Bradley, near the Votaw farm; Jacob Iletlley, one and a half miles south of Peoria; Adam Fansler, southeast of Peoria, where he is now living: John Davidson, near the central part 540 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. of the township; Jonathan ("Speck") Johnson on the Wilhelrh place; William Cipher, one mile southeast of Peoria; Samuel Ram- sey in the sariie locality; Mr. Bosden, about two miles west of the village; Henry Watts in the vicinit}- of the town; Zachariah Wallick in the western part of the township; James and Thomas Keyes, near the central part; Thomas Timmons, Joseph Werhle, David and William Miller, James Long and Jeptha Long, near Peoria; John King, John Fegle\', Solomon Fegley, Samuel Kiem, Benjamin Wal- lick and J. Thomas, whose places of settlement are at present unknown. The earliest settlement in the southern part of the town- ship was made late in the fifties by the Fenimores, who in 184S, projected and laid out the village of Santa Fe. Others came in dur- ing the following two years and by 1850 every part of the township was settled bv an intelligent and thriflv population. JJ/7/f. — The first mill patronized bv the earlv settlers of north- ern Butler was a small log mill in Wabash Countv, erected by the general government for the Indians, prior to 1S40. The first mill in the township was built at Peoria, in 1845, by Isaac Litzenbarger. The original structure was a primitive log building, supplied with machinerj' for sawing lumber, and one run of nigger head burrs, which ground a very coarse article of flour. After operating the mill several years Mr. Litzenbarger sold out to Dr. Helm. It was afterwards burned down, but has since been rebuilt, and is still in operation, belonging at this time to the lieirs of E. H. Shirk, of Peru. With the exception of several steam saw-mills operated at different times, the above is the only mill of any kind in the town- ship. T/ir Rcliifioiis Hislorv of Butler dates from its earliest settle- ment, though no attempts were made towards the organization of churches until a number of years later. The first religious service of which there is any definite knowledge was held at the cabin of Mr. Beard, by Rev. Mr. Beloit, of the Methodist church, in the year 1841. Ministers of several denominations began visiting the settlements about that time, holding services in cabins and groves, which were attended b\' the earl)- settlers for many miles around. These meetings were the means of accomplishing much good, and served to check manv of the prevalent evils of the times. A number of settlers in the northern part of the township were members of the Baptist church and attended meetings of that de- nomination in Wabash County, where a society was organized at quite an early day. The Christians organized a society in Peoria a number of vears ago, and erected the first house of worship there in 1856. This organization was never strong in numbers, and at this time no services are held. The Presbyter- ians organized a societ}' in the township some years since, which is still maintained. The Methodists have a small class and a neat house RELIGIOUS HISTORY. 54I of worship at the village of Santa Fe, at which place the Duiik- ards also hold services at regular intervals, using the school house for a meeting place. The first frame dwelling houses in the township were built by Joel Davis, Job Morris and Joseph \'otaw, and in 1841 the first orchard was planted b)- Jonah Sullivan, the trees of which were obtained from Matthias Mo^-er's nursery in Richland Town- ship. James Clayton ^and Joseph Votaw set out orchards about the same time, a number of the trees of which are still standing, bearing fruit. The first marriage celebrated in the township was that of James Wilhelm to Nancy White in 1S41. Probabh' the first birth was that vi Frank Litzenbarger, born to Isaac and Sarah Litzenbarger in 1841. William Sullivan, Esq., of Peru, son of Jonah and Louisa Sullivan, was born here, and earl)^ in the forties births occurred in the familv of Joseph Votaw. Among the earliest deaths in the township was that of Mr. l'ller\-, who was killed b}' Mr. Wilhelm, Sr. It appears that Wilhelm had a daughter to whom Ullery desired to pay his respects. This did not meet the approval of the father, who forbade the voung man entering the house. The lover, how- ever, failing to comply with this request, continued his visits. This, with other things, so exasperated Wilhelm that, upon one occasion, he shot the young man, at the same time hallowing so as to attract the attention of his son, who came out of the house and fired, but, as he persisted afterward, at random. UUer}' was killed, and the son, who was supposed to have committed the bloody deed, was arrested, tried and sentenced to the penitenti- ary. The father, just before his death acknowledged firing the fatal shot, upon which the son was released. Another verj' early death was that of Washington Godfroy, son of Chief Francis Godfroy. He was struck b}- lightning in the presence of a white man and a number of Indians, and instantly killed. This created the wildest excitement among the Indians, and in a ver\'' short time hundreds from different \illages were assembled to witness the sad spectacle. James Clayton and Mrs. Thomas Clayton died many years ago and were among the earliest per- sons buried in the Clayton graveyard in the northeastern part of the township. A couple of children of Michael Bradley were early buried in the same, as were also several Indians, names unknown. ViNiioc of Peoria is situated ' on the west bank of the Mississinewa River in Section 10, Township 26, North Range 5 East, and dates its history from 1849. ^^'^'^ \'awA upon which the \illage stands, was purchased in an early day by Isaac Litzenbarger, who, to further the interests of the locality, laid out the town in October of the above year. The original plan of the 542 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY, town consisted of thirty-six lots and four streets, viz.: Hill, Wal- nut, High and Race. Mr. Litzenbarger opened a general store about the time the lots were surveyed, and sold goods for a num- ber of years thereafter. Previous to that time, however, Moses Falk, to whom reference has alread\' been made, established a trad- ing post on the town site, and during the early settlements of the county carried on a successful traffic with the Indians. Mr. McClain was an early merchant of the village, and . since about the year 1865 the commercial business of the town has been carried on at at different times by Ira Litzenbarger. John Lieurance, Samuel Jameson, Noah Minnick and the present merchant, James A. Long. William Luce settled in the village in an early day, and worked at the tailor's trade. Among the earliest residents was John Younce, who operated the hrst blacksmith shop. Peoria was ne\er a place of much importance, and at this time has one general store, kept by Mr. Long, and a blacksmith and repair shop carried on b\- John Hahn. The last physician of the village was Dr. Frank Black. Santa Fc. — The little villaa^e of Santa Fe is situated in the ex- treme southern part of the township, on the southeast quarter of Section 32, Township 26, North, Range 5 East, and was laid out Mav, 1884, by Ebenezer Fenimore. An addition of 26 lots was made to the town in January, 1850, b}- Matthew Fenimore, one of the first settlers in the southern part of the county. One of the first residents of the village was William S. White, who erected a business house and engaged in merchandising as early perhaps as 1848. Messrs. Bond & Harper brought a stock to the place about the same time and sold goods for a period of two or three years. Nelson McGraw kept a general store during the early history of the place, as did also Samuel Metret,, David Bowers, Noah Reese, Thomas Jones, Henry Bowers, Noah Bowers and others. David Jewells. William Kessler, Noah Reese, David Jones and a Mr. Frick were among the early mechanics, and Drs. Hendricks, Barnes, Ginther, Stewart, Foraker, Pence and Pugh practiced the healing art from time to time. An industry of the place was a mill erected on Pipe Creek by Messrs. Fenimore & Britton, who operated it for a period of about eighteen or twenty years. They sold to Solomon Stout, who ran it for some time in partnership with Thomas Cla\ton. It was destroyed by fire in 1869 or 1870, and afterwards rebuilt by Amos West. The present proprietor is John Thorn, who is doing a fair business. Until the construction of the Pan Handle railroad through the county a couple of miles distant, Santa Fe enjoyed the repu- tation of one of the best country villages in Miami County, but the completion of the road and the consequent springing up of towns in the county, proved an effectual check to its further development. It still commands a respectable proportion of the BIOGRArillCAL SKETCHES. 543 current trade, and supports a couple of general stores and about the usual uumber of shops found in a country village. The Methodists have an organization and a neat house of worship in the town, and the Dunkards have preaching at regular intervals in the school house. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. GEORGE BINKERD, of Butler Township, is a native of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, born near Miller's Eddy, December 20, 1816, being next eldest in a familv of twelve children born to John and Elizabeth (Buzard) Binkerd, who were natives of Virginia and Pennsylvania respectively. Our subject was reared in his native state, recei\ing a limited educa- tion, mostlv obtained by working and paying his own tuition. In 1845 he emigrated to and and settled on the farm where he now lives. November 7, 1850, his marriage with Mar}' A., daughter of John Miller, was solemnized and to their union three sons have been born, viz.: James P., who married Martha McDow- ell: Jacob, whose wife was Elizabeth Difert, and Isaac E., the latter living at home with his parents. Mr. Binkerd has always made farming his occupation, and he has been very successful. Me now owns 280 acres of well improved land. In politics he is a Democrat, but he does not allow partv bias or prejudice to control his vote. His property is the accumulation of his own industry and economv. He first worked as a farm hand, at which he was engaged one year, and at intervals cleared on his land. OLIVER BORDEN, a prominent and early settler of But- ler Township, is a native of Hamilton County, Ohio, where he was born December 17, 1829, being the eldest in a family of four children, born to John and Jane (Acklev) Borden, who were both natives of New Jersev, the latter ot Scotch-Swede descent. The mother came with her parents to Hamilton County about 1808 or iSio, and the father came to that county about 1S23. They emigrated from there to Indiana, and settled in Miami Countv in 1848, of which thev continued residents until their death. Our immediate subject was reared to manhood in his native county. He received a common school education. April 4, 1852, his marriage with Elizabeth Benner was solemnized and to their union four children were born, of which only this one is now living — Joseph. Ma}' 20, 1857, Mr. Borden suffered the be- reavement of losing his beloved wife. November 20, i860, his and Sarah A. Blood's nuptials were celebrated, and their union has been blessed with four children, these three now living: Al- 544 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. bert, Mark and Alice. His father was a cooper, and he learned in early life that trade, continuing to follow it until 1826, when, for the five or six years immediately subsequent, he divided his attention between his trade and farming, since which time he has followed agricultural pursuits exclusiveh', and he has been verj' successful. He now owns 160 acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian church. In politics he is a Republican, and he was honored with an election to the office of Township Trustee, which he filled in a very creditable manner. JAMES BOWERS, of Butler Township,"is a native of Scioto Count}', Ohio, where he was born July 26, 1828, being the onl}' child born to George and Mary (Deaver) Bowers, who were natives of Ohio and Maryland, respectively. They emigrated to Indiana and Miami County in the year 1848 and settled in Harri- son, living there until their death. Our subject was reared in his native state and received a common school education. June 13, 1850, his marriage with Martha M. Sitt was solemnized, and to their union thirteen children were born, of which these three are now living: Thomas J., who married Margaret Kessler; Charles S., whose wife was Flora Ogborn; Maggie F., wife of Ira McLane. Mar}- grew to womanhood and died at tlie age of twenty years. Mr. Bowers has always made farming his occupation and he has been very successful in that pursuit. He now owns 220 acres of of well-improved land. In politics he is an ardent Republican, and always manifests a good live interest in the political affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him. He was honored with an election to the office of Justice of the Peace in 1882. JOHN S. CONN, a leading pioneer of Butler Township, is a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, born near Salem, Janu- ary 24, 1842, being the fourth in a family of eight children born to Joseph H. and Alice A. (Pierce) Conn, who were natives of Ohio and Virginia respectively, the former of Irish descent; the latter dying in 1846 little is known of her origin. Subject's father emigrated to Indiana in 1851, locating in Wabash County, and died there July 22, i860, since which time John S. has been upon his own resources. He had obtained a common school education, such as was to be acquired in the primitive log school houses of those days. August 22, 1863, occurred his mar- riage with Elizabeth A. Manning, a native of Ohio, and daughter of Silas and Lydia Manning. To this union one child, Milo P., was born. August 5, 1873, Mr. Conn suffered the bereavement of losing his wife. September 10, 1875, his and Martha J. Webb's nuptials were celebrated. August 14, 1878, death re- moved Mr. Conn's second wife. March 11, 1880, Martha A. Wright became his wife, and their union has been blessed with • BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 545 two children, Omer C, and Lettie L. His occupation lias always been farming, and he has been very successful. He now owns 1 88 acres of improved land. He is a member of the I. O. O. F.. holding membership in Miami Lodge, No. 52, both Subordi- nate and Encampment. In politics he is Democratic, and he always manifests a good, live interest in the political affairs of the county and communitj- in which he lives. He is at present acting as the Central Committeeman for his precinct. GEORGE S. EVANS, a citizen of Butler Township, is a native of the adjoining County of Cass, where he was born Decem- ber 9, 1842, being the eldest of a family of six children, born to Hugh and Mary E. (Oliver) Evans, who were natives of Virginia and Indiana, respectivel}', and were among the pioneer settlers of Cass County. Both died before our subject had attained the age of fifteen j-ears, and he was at that early age thrown upon his own resources. He engaged in 1858 with John W. Miller as a farm hand, with whom he continued four years. The next two years subsequent he rented farms, when, in 1863, he realized the neces- sity of the preservation of our Union, and when the countrv needed aid, enlisted in Compan}' G, 128th Indiana Vol- unteer Infantry as private, where he served until the close of the war, and was honorably discharged at Indianapolis April 20, 1866. He participated in the following important engagements: Nash- ville, Tenn., Atlanta, Franklin, Tenn., Dalton, Ga., Resaca, Ga., Kenesaw Mountain, Lost Mountain, Burnt Hickory, Rough and Ready, Jonesboro, Lovejo}-, Columbia, Kingston, N. C. Septem- ber 26, 1867, his marriage with Josephine Tillett was solemnized, and to their union eleven children have been born, of which these ten are now living: Marv A., Nora E., Susanna, Hattie P., Jessie M., Grade O., Ira M^, Geo. E., Frank O., and Carl G. The deceased child was James H., who died November 5, 1884, aged four years. Our subject has always made farming his occupation, and he has been very successful; he owns 507 acres of improved land; he is a member of the I. O. O. F., both Subordinate and En- campment, and G. A. R. fraternities. In politics he is a Democrat, and he has alwa>s manifested a good lively interest in the political affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he has been honored with the election, in 1882, to the office of County Commissioner, and as a recognition of the creditable manner in which he filled that office he was re-elected. JOHN B. IDDING, a resident of Buder Township, was born in Peru Township, August i, 1847, being the youngest of seven children, born to John D. and Susan (Hoover) Iddings, who were natives of Ohio, both of German descent. They emigrated from there to Miami County about 1840, locating in Peru. A gunsmith by trade ; he established a shop which he carried on about twenty- 546 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNT\». five years. A part of the time he owned and operated a farm. About 1865, he closed his gun shop and devoted his entire atten- tion to farming in which he was successful, owning at the time of his death, a good farm. He died in June, 1880. at the advanced age of 68 years. He experienced religion a short time before his death and united with the Catholic Church. He formerly was a member of the I. O. O. F. fraternitv. The immediate subject lived with his parents until their death, receiving a common school education. October 2, 1877, his marriage with Marv Huber, of Lancaster, Ohio, was solemnized and to their union these three children have been born; Edward, Samuel and Mary. He has always made farming his occupation and he has been verv successful. He now owns over 200 acres of improved land. He is a member of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a Republican. JONATHAN JOHNSON, better known as "Spectacle" Johnson, a prominent citizen of Butler Township, is a native of Connecticut, born near the town of Greeidge, August 8, 181 2, being the third in a familv of nine children born to Robert and Doll}' (Patterson) Johnson, who were also natives of the New England States. They emigrated to Ohio by wagon, coming to Pittsburg, then down the Ohio on a flat-boat, and locating in Hamilton, where they ever afterward lived until their death. Our subject was reared to manhood there, receiving a common education, such as the facilities of those davs afforded — such as was to be obtained in the primitive log school houses. At the age of sixteen he was bound apprentice to learn the cooper's trade for four years and nine months, when he engaged in that trade for himself. Februar}- 26, 1836, his marriage with Rebecca Miller was solemnized, and to their union five children have been born, of which four are now living, viz.: Elizabeth J., wife of Josiah Hann: James L., who married Mary May: William, whose wife was Marv A. Keves, and Jonathan, Jr., whose consort was Phoebe J. Armantrout. July 17, 1871, Mr. Johnson suffered the bereavement of losing his beloved wife. November 9, 1874, his and Eliza J. Wilson's nuptials were celebrated. Their union was of comparativelv short duration, she dving August 12, 1878. October 4, 1883, Lorenia Daley became his wife. In 1S49 he emigrated to Miami County, Indiana, settling on the farm where he now lives. Since 1873 he has devoted his entire attention to farming, prior to which time he followed coopering and farm- ing together, and he has been verv successful. He now owns forty acres, and formerly owned about 400 acres, but started his children in life each with a farm. He is a member of the M. E. and his wife of the Presbyterian church. He also belongs to the Masonic fraternitv, holding a membership at Peru. In politics he is BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 547 a Democrat, and he was honored with an election to the office of Township Trustee two terms. JOHN LAVENGOOD, a citizen of Butler Township, is a native of Coshocton County, Oiiio, born near New Bedford, Novem- ber 21, 1S36, being the next eldest in a famih' of fourteen children born to George and Barbara (Bickel) Lavengood, who were natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively. John was reared in his native State and county, remaining at home and assisting his parents on the farm until he attained his majorit}'. He received a limited edu- cation such as the schools of those days afforded. In 1857, at the age of 21, he emigrated to Indiana and Miami Count}-, of which he has since remained a resident. January 22, 1S64, his marriage with Margaret J., daughter of Robert Long, was solemnized, and to their union five children have been born, of which these three are living: William H., Levi and George M. The deceased children were Schuyler and Annie V. His occupation has always been farming, in connection with which he operated a saw-mill, and he has been very successful. He now owns no acres of well improved land, which is the accummulation of his own industry and economy, besides he is the proprietor of 80 acres located in Clarke Count}-. February, 1864, Mr. Lavengood realized the necessity of the Union and enlisted in Company F., 153d Regiment of Indiana Volunteer Infantry, where he served until the war closed. He is a member of the Luthern and his wife of the M. E. Church. In politics he is a staunch Democrat and he always manifests an interest in the polit- ical affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he was honored with an election to the office of Township Trustee in 1884, his term expiring in 1886. JAMES A. LONG, merchant at Peoria, or Reserve Postoffice, embarked in business in 1883, purchasing the stock of Noah Minnick, who had been employed in the business for fourteen Acars. The present proprietor carries a stock of about $2,000, doing an annual business of about $6,000. Mr. Long is a native of Wabash County, born January i, i860, being the fourth in a family of seven children born to Joseph and Lavina ( Lutz) Long, who were natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respectively. He emigrated to Indiana about 1S46. For some time thereafter Joseph worked as a farm hand at various places in Miami and Wabash Counties. In the spring of 1850 he went to Cuba, remaining tliere about eighteen months, when he returned and located in Wabash County, living there until 1874, when he removed to Peoria, of which he has since been a resident. By occupation he has always been a farmer, in which he has been very suc- cessful. He' is now the proprietor of 588 acres of land, the accumulation of his own industry and economy. He is the father of the following named children: William, Martha, Nancy, 548 HISTORY OF AMAMI COUNTY. James, Marv, Lemora and Luville. The immediate subject of this sketch remained at home until he had attained his majority, receiving a common school education sufficient to enable him to teach, which he did for three terms, since which time he has been in the mercantile business. November '], 1886, his mar- riage with Eva Poor was solemnized. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. In politics he is .a Republican, and he is now postmaster for the village of Peoria. DANIEL MALONEY, of Buder, is a native of the Count)- of Karey, Ireland, where he was born, May, 1827, being the youngest of a family of six children born to Michael and Katharine (Flife) Maloney. Daniel was reared to manhood in his native countrv. He received a limited education. His parents were reasonably well-to-do. August, 1858, his mar- riage with Henora Rardon was solemnized: the day following^ they embarked for America and the United States. They were en route about sixty-six dajs. They landed at New York City,, from whence they came to and located near Greenville, Ohio, where thev lived about one vear, when he moved to Blackford County, and one year later moved to Marion County, living there one year, thence to Wabash County, staying there seven years, when he came to Miami Countv where he has since lived. Mr. Maloney came to the United States a poor man; he worked at anything he could get to do, such as ditching, chop- ping cord wood, etc., principalh' as a farm hand. He rented a farm for 16 years and by untiring industry and the strictest economy he is now one of Miami Countv's most substantial citizens. He is the proprietor of 260 acres of well improved land. To the union there have been seven children born. Mary, wife of Michael Riley; James, who married Kate Hays; Kate, Joanna, Daniel, Ellen and Bridget. He and family are members of the Catholic Church. In politics he is a L^emocrat. DR. SIMEON S. MARSH, phy.sician and surgeon in Butler Township is a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, born near Germantown, February 5, 1837; being the third in a famih* of eight children born to John and Catharine (Leavell) Marsh, who were natives of New York and North Carolina respectivelv. They em- igrated from Miami County, Ohio, to Cass County in September, 1842, locating in Adams Township, that County. Where the for- mer lived until killed by lightning in May, 1855,. His widow resided there until 1874, when she removed to and made Peru her home until her death, which occurred November i, 1885. The immediate subject of our sketch was reared to manhood in Cass County. He received a common school education. At the age of nineteen he was thrown upon his own resources. He from that time worked at intervals and went to school, supplementing mm ^^^ O^^TM^c^U^^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 55 1 his education by attendance at high school until 1861. In July of that year he entered the service of his country, enlisting in Company A, 20th Indiana Regiment of Volunteer Infantry-, as a private, where he served for over three years. He participated in the following important engagements: Seven days fight at Ciiickahominy, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and the battles inci- dent; Grant's Campaign from Culpepper to Petersburg, and nearly all the fights in which his regiment took part. He was hon- orably discharged July 29, 1864 at Indianapolis. That same year he commenced the studj- of medicine with Dr. W. H. Brenton, now of Peru, then practicing at Reserve, with whom he continued four years during which time he took a course of lec- tures at Bellevue Hospital Medical College at which he since has taked three and part of a fourth course, graduating from that institution in 1874. He has practiced almost without interruption since taking his first course and he has been ver}' successful. He is a member of the G. A. R. and Masonic fraternities. In politics he is a staunch Republican, casting his first vote for Abraham Lincoln. JACOB E. MARSH, the next younger brother of Dr. S. S. Marsh, was born January 8, 1839, '" Montgomery County, Ohio. In early life he received a common school education, and in 1862 he enlisted in the 99th Regiment of Volunteers, in which he served until Jul}', 1865, and was then honorably discharged. He was with the Army of the Potomac from the beginning of the Seven Days fight, at Chickahominy, before Richmond, in nearly all the en- gagements around which his regiment participated. He married Elizabeth Miller, and they have the following family of five children now living: Levi, Irene, Nora, Delbert and Josie, the last two twins. EDWARD H. MILLER, a citizen of Butler Township, is a native of Peru Township; was born April 22, 1842, being the next youn£*est in a family of eight (four now surviving) children, born to John W. and Julia A. (Leas) Miller, who were natives of York Count}-, Pennsylvania, and Preble County, Ohio, respectively, the former of German descent. The marriage occurred in Preble County about 1826; two years later, 'in 1828, they came to Indiana and Miami County, settling on the farm where our subject was born. They remained residents of this county until their death. Edward H. remained at home and assisted his parents on the farm until he at- tained the age of twent3--two jears. He received a limited educa- tion in the schools of the vicinity, which was supplemented by at- tendance at Notre Dame College for one term. January 21, 1864, his marriage with Luan Nesbit was solemnized. She was a daugh- ter of Waiter D. and Luan (Riley) Nesbit. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Miller eleven children have been born, of which these 18 552 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. seven are now living: Carrie E., Maxamillian C, Edward O. Louie, Jessie, John W., and Nellie B. His occupation is now farm- ing, in connection with which he formerl}- dealt in stock, and he has been very successful. He now owns 238 acres of well improved land. In politics, he has been a life-long Democrat. ROSS O. MILLER, an enterprising and progressive farmer of Butler Township, was born in Peru Township October 26, 1846, of a family of eight children born to John W. and Julia A. (Leese) Miller, of which he was the youngest. His parents, natives respec- tivel}- of Pennsylvania and Ohio, were among the earliest settlers of Miami County of which they remained residents until their death. Ross O. lived with his parents until he obtained the age of twenty- live vears, receiving a common school education. About 187 1 he embarked in the business of trading and dealing in stock, which he continued four j-ears, when he engaged in farming which he has since followed meeting with very good success. He is the proprie- tor of 233 acres of well improved land. November, 1882, he was united in marriage with Harriet Evans. Mr. Miller is a member of the I. O. O. F. In politics he is an ardent Democrat, being hon- ored by his party with an election to the office of Township Asses.^ sor. ANDREW PEARSON, a prominent citizen of Buder Town- ship, is a native of Miami County, Ohio, where he was born Janu- arv 8, 1846, being the next eldest in a familv of eight children born to William and Sarah (Million ) Pearson, who were also natives of Miami Count}-, Ohio, the former of English and the latter of par- tial German descent. They came to Wabash County, the latter part of the year 1846, of which they have since continued residents. Our immediate subject was reared upon a farm, remaining with his par- ents until he attained the age of twentj'-five vears. He received a common school education, supplemented by three terms attend- ance at High School. October 6, 1870, his marriage with Sarah Armstrong was solemnized, and to their union six children have been born, viz: Bertha, Annetta, Mary, Susan, Augusta, Pearl and Harrv Andrew. His occupation has been mostly farming in connec- tion with which he worked for a period of eight years at the black- smithing trade, and he has Keen very successful. He now owns 160 acres of well improved land. In politics he is a Republican. ADAM RAMER, a prominent farmer of Butler Township, is a native of Tuscarawas Countj^ Ohio, where he was born April I, 1829, being the eldest of eight children born to James and Catharine (Moore) Ramer. Thev moved, when our subject was quite young, to Coshocton where he was reared until he was seventeen years of age, which was in 1845, when the family emigrated to Williams County, Ohio, where they stopped for the winter, coming to Miami County the following spring, , BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 553 settling in Butler Township, wheix' they remained until 1861 or 1862, when they moved to Whitley County. After a residence there of a few j-ears they returned to Miami County and located in Perry Township, where Mrs. Ramer died. After her death he Hved for a time again in Butler Township, after which he removed to Pulaski County where he died March, 1885. In early life Mr. Ramer received a limited education in conse- quence of the poor facilities of those days. March 29, 1850, his marriage with Hannah (York) Shortridge was solemnized. B)' her former marriage Mrs. Ramer had one child, a daughter, Laura, now Mrs. David Lemon. His occupation has always been farming, and he has been very successful. He now owns 124 acres of well improved land which is the accumulation of his own industr\- and economy. He made rails for 31^ cents a hundred for the man that owned the farm of which he is now the proprietor. He and wife are members of the Christian Church, of which he has been an Elder, and is now leader. In politics he is a Republican. NATHANIEL RUNYAN, of Butler Township, is a native , of New Jersey, where he was born October 8, 1822, being the third in a family of five children born to Lewis and Mary Britton Runyan, who were also natives of New Jersey. The former died about 1830, when Nathaniel was taken and reared to manhood by his uncle, Robert Armstrong. He provided himself with a common school education. He at the age of twent}^- four started westward, working for a time in Ohio and Michi- gan, when he came to Miami County, to which his mother had preceded him in 1846. December, 1850, his marriage with Rachel Brown, daughter of Aaron Brown, was solemnized, and to their union four children were born, of which these two are now living — Charles L., and Mary, wife of John Miller. He had in early life learned the wagonmaker's trade, which he fol- lowed until he came to Peru, since which time he has made farming his occupation, and he has been very successful. He now owns 320 acres of improved land. In politics he is a Demo- crat, and he always manifests a good, live interest in the politi- cal affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he enjoys the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens. Mrs. Runvan died some vears ago. SEYMOUR SMITH, of Buder Township, is a native of Augusta, Kentucky, where he was born February 3, 18 15, being the tiiird in a family of ten children born to Aquila and Polly (Sey- mour) Smith, who were natives of Maryland and Virginia respec- tivelv, tiieir marriage occurring in Newark, Ohio. Our immediate subject was reared mostly in Pickaway County, Ohio. He received a very limited education, such as the subscription schools of those 554 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. days afforded. He remained at home until he attained his majority. October, 1844, his marriage with Margaret (Robinson) Strader was solemnized, and to their union ten children were born, of which these six are now living: Jane, now Mrs. F. Hay; Sarah, widow of Graham Bradley; John, who married Chatlie Ater; Elizabeth, consort of Levi Hurley; Irene and Martha. October 9, 1S82, Mr. Smith suffered the bereavement of losing his beloved wife. His occupation has always been farming, and he has been verj- suc- cessful. He now owns 120 acres of improved land. In politics he is a staunch Republican. JASPER D. SMITH, a leading citizen of Butler Township, is a native of Kosciusko County, born February 28, 1845, being the fifth in a famil\- of eleven children born to George C. and Rosanna (Dilsaverj Smith. The former, a native of Virginia, born on Crab Bottom, April 6, 1802, the son of Smith. In 181 1 his parents emigrated to Ohio, where he grew to man- hood and was married to Elizabeth Van De vender; his first mar- riage was of comparatively short duration, his wife d\ing after four children had been born. His second marriage also occurred in Ohio. About 1842 he came to Indiana, first settling in Kos- ciusko County, where he lived until the spring of 1S46, when he came to Miami County, locating first on the Mississinewa, and subsequently moved to Pipe Creek, in what is now Jackson Township. He entered land in what is now Harri- son Township, on which he lived until 1877, when he traded for a farm in Butler Township, to which he removed, living there until within ten months of his death, when he had become so enfeebled that he made his home with Sarah Plotner, his daughter, ending his days at her home March 7, 1881. He had been a member of the M. E. Church, having joined that organization when a young man. He was an exemplary, true and consistent Christian, and in his death the community lost an honored and respected citizen. He was elevated to the position of County Commissioner, being the incumbent of that office when the location and building of the Indi- anapolis, Peru & Chicago railroad was in process, he being largely instrumental in securing and protecting the county's interest. He also served Harrison Township as one of its Trustees for a number of j^ears. Our immediate subject grew to manhood on the farm, remaining at home and assisting his parents on the farm until he attained his majority. He received a common school education, such as the facilities of those days afforded. At the age of 20, in 1865, he entered in the service of his country, serving until the close of the war, being honorablj' discharged on September of the same year. March 5i 1868, his marriage with Susan Plotner was solemnized, and to this union live children have been born, of which three are now living — Florence I., Clarence E. and Donna BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 555 E. Both of the deceased children were infants. Mr. Smith's occu- pation has been principally farming, and he has been very success- ful. He now owns sixty acres of improved land. The family are members of the M. E. Church. In politics he is a Democrat, and he has always manifested a good, live interest in the political affairs of the county in which he li\es, being the present member of the Central Committee representing his precinct. JACOB S. THOMAS, a prominent citizen of BuUer Town- ship, is a native of Jefferson Counlx', Virginia, where he was born October i6, 1812, being the eldest child of a family of thirteen children born to Archibald and Catharine (Swimley) Thomas, who were natives of Maryland and Virginia respectively, the former of Welsh-Irish and the latter of German descent. Leonard Thomas, paternal grandfather of our subject, was a native of Maryland from whence he removed to Virginia, where he lived until his death. Archibald Thomas, father of our subject, was born April 11, 17S7. He was a soldier of 1812. The Captain of his company being Davenport. By occupation he was a farmer. He died March 31, 1S63, at his home in Champaign, Green County, Ohio, to which he had emigrated in the year 1827. They making the entire journey from Virginia on foot. The immediate subject of our sketch remained at home and assisted his parents until he attained the age of twenty 3-ears. He had receiyed a meager education in his native State; this subsequent to his marriage was supplemented by his acquiring more knowledge by reading sufficient to enable him to teach which he followed several terms. March 6, 183^, hi.s marriage witli Elizabeth Stanley was solemnized. She was a daughter of Robert and Edith (Mason) Stanley. In 1853 he emigrated to Indiana and Miami County, settling on the farm where he now lives. He had learned milling in early life, and follo\\ed that vocation until he came to Indiana, where he en- gaged exclusively in farming for a period of ten years when in 1S63 he purchased a mill which he operated until 1S74, when his mill burned and he again resumed farming in which he has since continued. From a business point of view Mr. Thomas has been very successful. He is now the proprietor of 233 acres of \\ell improved land. To the union of Mr. and Mrs Thomas, ten children were born, of which these six are now living: Benjamin F., Joseph W., Arabell (now Mrs. R. Thornburg ), Catharine V. (w^ife of Dr. E. K. Friermood), E\aline and William R. H. October 22, 1S73, Mr. Thomas suffered the bereavement of losing his beloved wife. He is a member of the M. E. Church. He formerly belonged to the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities. In politics he is an ardent Republican. Ben- jamin F. and Robert S., sons, served their country in the Rebel- 556 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. lion. The latter died while in the service at Nashville, Tennessee. JOSEPH VOTAW, a farmer of Butler Township, is a native of Columbiana County, Ohio, born near Salem, August 2 1, 1812, being the fifth in a family of eight children born to Joseph and Phoebe (Yates) Votaw, who were both natives of Virginia, of French and English descent, respectively. Our sub- ject was reared in his native State, securing a limited education, such as the facilities of those days offered. When 16 years of age he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith trade. At about the age of 21 he emigrated to Wayne County, Indiana, where he remained about six years working at his trade. June, 1841, he came to Miami Count)' where he entered 80 acres of the land he now owns. In the fall he established a shop, in which he continued to work until 1876. November, 1836, his marriatre with Ruth Wersner was solemnized, and to their union four children were born, of which these two are now living, Phoebe, wife of Charles Pavy, and Daniel, who married Louisa Yuant. February 25, 1849, Mr. Votaw suffered the bereave- ment of losing his beloved wife; in 1852 his and Lydia Macy's nuptials were celebrated, and to their union nine children have been born. These four are now living; Nathan, Allen, Hannah M. and Emma L. Since 1876 he has devoted his entire atten- tion to farming, which he had followed in connection with his smithing, prior to that, and he has been very successful. He now owns over 320 acres of well improved land. He and wife are members of the Friends Church. In politics he is a Repub- lican, and he has alwaj's manifested a good, live interest in the political affairs of the county and community in which he lives, where he enjoys the respect and esteem of all wlio know him. Mr. Votaw was one of the pioneer settlers of Miami County, coming when the country was a wilderness of woods which abounded in wild game of all kinds. ANDREW E. WALLACE, Trustee of Butler Township, is a native of Decatur Count}', born June 8, 1843, being the eldest of a familj' of seven children born to James and Margaret (Babcock) Wallace, natives of Ohio and of German-Scotch descent. Thev re- moved from Decatur to Fulton County about 1846, where the former still lives. Our subject was reared in Fulton Countv. He received a common school education. He remained at home with his par- ents until he attained the age of twenty ^ears, when in February, 1864, he entered the service of his countrv, enlisting in Companv F, 87th Regiment of Volunteer Infantrv, serving until the close of the war. He was present and participated in all the engagements inci- dent to Sherman's campaign on his march to Atlanta and the Sea, and was honorablv discharged at Louisville Julv, 1865. April 20, 1867, his marriage with Sarah J. Wright was solemnized, and to BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 557 their union eight ciiilchcn have been born, of wliicii these six are now hving: Cora E., Minnie M., Charley E., Anna INI., Edward II. and John R. The two deceased children were Bertha E. and an infant unnamed. Mrs. Wallace is the daugiiter of Edmund and Anna (Arnold) WriIiller and Weaver. William Parker erected the building occu- pied at this time by H. D. Dispennett, and was identified with the mercantile interests of the village for some time. Prior to his arri\al however, a Mr. Truitt sold goods in a little building which stood on the same corner near where Main street crosses the railroad. Ashberry Kessler, D. A. R. Holton, J. M. Lee & Co., were among the merchants who did business in the village at different times. The last firm was succeeded by Messrs. Stitt & Lee, the present energetic and wide awake merchants. Prominent among the business men of the town was W. C. Yarnall who opened a store in 1873 and continued the same until within a comparatively recent date. He was Postmaster, railroad and express agent for a number of 3'ears, and did as much if not more towards the building up of the town than any other citizen of the place. He sold out to Ira Smith who ir» turn was succeeded by the present proprietor, C. E. Miller. The first industry of the place was a large steam saw-mill, erected in the southwest part of the village about the year iSsO' by Jacob C Miller, who operated it for several years. The next mill was built by Mr. Dugan in 1867 or '68, and in 1870, the Chicago mill, operated by Charles Somers, was brought to the place. The latter was operated on quite an extensive scale for some vears. The present saw-mill is operated by Draper & Shambo, who report their business good. Ira Smith engaged in the manufacture of drain tile in 1876, and still carries on the busi- ness. Messrs. Draper & Shambo operate a tile kiln also. Long, Draper & Co. have at this time a large grist mill in the course o£ construction for the manufacture of flour bv the roller process, which, when completed, will be one of the best mills in the county. The building is a large frame structure, and its presence in the village will doubtless draw a great deal of business to that place. The physicians of North Grove have been the following, viz.: Drs. Brandon, Barnes, Friermood, Holton and the present M. D.'s, T. F. Ijams and A. J. Gray. The present business of the village is as follows: General merchants, H. J. Dispennett, and the firm of Stitt & Lee: druggist, C E. Miller: confectioner, C. A. Boland: saloons, Thomas Collins and Ilenrv Zimmerman; grain dealer, Eugene Fletcher; carpenters, Martin Grandstaff and Christian Sanderson: blacksmith and wagon- maker, Andrew Ranck. The United Brethren have an organiza- tion and a neat frame house of worship, and the beautiful and com- modious graded school building was recently erected at a cost of $4,240. 6l2 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. McGravjsviUe is a small railroad town on the line dividing Clay and Harrison Townships, about three miles northeast of North Grove. It has one general store, a blacksmith shop, and a church, the latter in Clay Township. The village is surrounded bv a good country, and is likely to become a place of considerable local importance. D. F. Deisch is now the principal merchant. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. RICHARD C. CRANE, a native of Preble County, Ohio, was born December 8, 1834, to George and Elizabeth (Batey) Crane, natives respectivelv of Penns\lvania and New York, who emigrated to Indiana in the year 1S48, and located on the farm owned and managed by our subject. Mr. Crane was married in February, 1855, to Sarah Hall, a native of Ohio, to whom were born these children, whose names are as follows: Mariah Jane, Catharine, Vioma, Laura, Belle, Maiy Elizabeth, Armintha and William, four of whom are still living. He was again married January i, 1878, to Miss Mary Miller, a native of Miami County, and to this union three children have been born, the names of which are as follows: Fannie, Lvdia and Georse. He was reared on the farm and received a common school educa- tion. He is the owner of 154 acres of land in Harrison town- ship, which he is improving rapidly and which is under a high state of cultivation. He alwa3S has taken an active part in the political affairs of the vicinity in which he resides, and at the polls votes the Democratic ticket.' DANIEL F. DEISCH, a son of John Philip and Catharine F. (Kull) Deisch, was born in Hocking County, Ohio, on the i6th of March, 1848. The father and mother were both natives of Ger- man v, coming to this country about 1830. They were married in Ohio and settled in Hocking County, where three of their famih' of twelve were born. In 1850 they moved to Miami County settling in Washington Township. In about 1S58 they moved to Clay Township where Daniel Deisch, the subject of this sketch, was raised on his father's farm, receiving a good common school education. Remain- ing and helping his father on the farm until he was twentv-eight, He was on the i6th day of March, 1876, married to Rebecca Ann Murden, a daughter of Thomas W. and Cvnthia Ann (Smith) Murden, a native of Miami Countv. being born there on the 6th of November, 1857, and a lady of English descent. To this union were born six children: Charles Oliver, George F., Matilda B., Cora Adell, Osie Filora and an infant. All are living. Mr. D. began business in Marion where he was married, and in 1879 came to McGrawsville where he now has a large general store, the Post- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 613 office, and is tlie Railroad Agent. He also deals in grain and slock. Coining to this county when all was new and nearly wilderness, Mr. D. has seen the great change that has made the country- what it is. He is an industrious, enterprising young merchant and a No. i citizen. EZRA T. LAMB, the son of George and Susannah (Thomas) Lamb, was born the 30th of April, 1850, in Jackson Township, Miami County, Indiana. Both were of English descent, the great- grandfather of Mr. Lamb coming from England. The father was born in North Carolina in 1824, and the whole family removed to Madison County, Indiana. But it was in Grant County that the father and mother met and were married in 1849. They settled in the woods east of Amboy and there began life, and raised their fam- ily of nine children, whose names are as follows: Ezra, Mary E., ^Villiam N., Sarah M., Martha, Angelina, Asenath Jane, Walter H. and Harve}-. Of these Mar}- and Angeline haye since died. Mr. Ezra Lamb, the subject of this sketch was raised on his father's farm, there receiying an education sufficient to enable him to teach nine successive winters in the public schools of Indiana, and the last six years of his teaching he had a first-class certificate. The 23d of September, 1875, Mr. Lamb was married to Eliza Eppele, a lady of German descent, and one well esteemed, her parents both emi- grating to this country from Germany. To this union were born iiye children, viz: Allie, born July 28, 1876; Charles, born Janu- ary 30, 1879, died July 11, 1879; Alburtus G., born May 21, 1880; Henry S., born November 17, 1881; Ina J.,born November 9, 1883, and an infant son, born October 3, 1886. In the spring of 1886 IVIr. Lamb moved to the farm where he now lives, in Section 27. Mr. and Mrs. Lamb are members of the Friend or Quaker Church at Amboy. Beginning life in fair circumstances Mr. Lamb has worked hard and more than doubled his means. He is an enter- prising, energetic young fanner and his family is respected by all who know them. MRS. ELIZABETH PLOTNER, a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, was born April 2, 1842. At the age of si.\ she emigrated to Peru Township, Miami County, with her parents, George and Susan (Yeazel) Rhineberger, natives of Ohio. The father of our subject always followed the occupation of a farmer. The father died October 18, 1872, and the mother is residing in Indianapolis. Our subject was married January 7, 1864, to Mr. Samuel Plotner (deceased), to whom were born two sons, whose names are Frank O. and Harry, the former now residing in Iowa and the latter at home with his mother. The husband of the subject of this sketch was a stock dealer, and met his death by riding on top of a moving train and being precipitated to the ground while passing through a low covered bridge on 6l4 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad at Newark, Ohio, October 29, 1876. His life was insured for $2,000, besides a farm of 116 acres, which were left to the widow and her two sons, on which she now resides. Our subject has a tine farm in splen- did cultivation in the northeast corner of Harrison Township, Miami County, of which she has entire management and which is tilled by a tenant. ELI SCHROCK, a son of Jacob and Elizabeth, w-as born in Holmes County, Ohio, the 6th of March 1842. Both parents were of German descent. The father was born the 6th of March, 1804, and died the 6th of March 1858; the mother was born in Septem- ber 1806, and is still living. There were twelve children in the old gentleman's family, viz: Catharine, Benjamin, Jacob, Isaac, Jonas, Susannah, Elizabeth, Joseph, Eli, Noah, Lydia and John, all born in Holmes County, Ohio. Benjamin and Susannah are now gone on before. All with the exception of three living right in southern Miami and northern Howard, and all have their share of this world's goods. Mr. Jacob Schrock in 1849, nioved to Indiana and settled on the line between Miami and Howard Count\-, and there the fam- ily were reared, and there Eli Schrock, the subject of this sketch, was reared, helping to clear away the forest and make a liome. Mr. Schrock had an education sufficient to enable him to teach t\vo terms in the public schools of the State. Although on account of having no schools, he did not go to school until at the age of 13, yet has improved his opportunities and gained a good education for that time. In 1863, Mr. Schrock was married to Elizabeth Schrock, a daughter of John and Mary (Sproll) Schrock. Both were of German descent and both are now living. To this union was born ten children, viz: Amanda, Lavinia, John, Mary Ann, Harvey, Noah, EH and Elizabeth, Emma and Willard. In 1877, Harvey was called away. In the spring of 1864 Mr. and Mrs. Schrock settled on the farm where he now lives, in Section 21, where he has since resided and there raised his family. Mr. and Mrs. Schrock are members of the Amish Church. Mr. Schrock began life in fair circumstances and has, by dint of industry and perseverance, gained a line farm of 115 acres, within lyi miles of North Grove. His family has grown to be respected through- out the township, and in 1884 the people of Harrison Town- ship gave him their highest office, that of Township Trustee, and in 1886 he was re-elected. Mr. Schrock, is a thorough gentleman and expects to remain on the farm where he has spent the best part of his life in getting under the state of cul- tivation which it now is. JONAS STINEMAN, a native of Tuscarawas County, Ohio, was born March 13, 1846, a son of Peter and Fannie (Hockstetter) Stineman, natives of Germany and Pennsylvania, respectively. The BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 615 father emigrated to America at about the age of thirty, and landed in Canada where he remained for about fifteen years, and tlien came to the United States and stopped at Tuscarawas County, Ohio, wliere lie remained until 184S, when he came to Miami Count\- and remained upon the farm now owned by our subject until his death which occurred Februar}- 23, 1862. The mother's parents came from Penns^■lvania to the same county in Ohio when she was six years old, where she remained until her removal to Indiana with her hus- band and famih'. Jonas is the only living child of his father's fam- ily and w as reared upon the farm. His education was a moderate one and enabled him to obtain a license to teach school on several occasions. His marriage to Miss Lj-dia Christner, daughter of Peter and Barbara (Egle) Christner, was blessed with the birth of the following seven children: Peter, Fannie, S^arah, Christian, Ezra, Ira and Noah. This union was severed by the death of his beloved wife, on the 19th day of August, 1882, who died at the age of 31. His second marriage with Mrs. Barbara Metzler (Stahley) occurred December 13, 1885, and to this mar- riage one child has been born, the name of which is Irwin. His second wife is the mother of nine children by her first husband, Daniel Metzler (deceased), the names of whom are as follows: John, Jonas, Lizzie, David, Marv, Jessie, Fannie, Daniel (deceased), and Annie. Mr. Stineman is the possessor of 216 acres of fine farming land located in Harrison Township, Section 30, which is improved in a substantial manner, having erected a commodious two-story brick house and an enormous bank-barn, which gives his home a most aristrocratic appearance, besides, the soil is under the highest state of cultivation, being drained by ditches running in every needed direction. He and famiW are members of the Amish denomination of religious worshipers and are regular attendants at service. In former 3'ears he belonged^ to the Democratic party, but lalterlv is an advocate of the cause espoused bv the Prohibitionists. Our subject having came to this county when but two years of age has a just right to be classed among the old settlers, he having experienced the hardships of the pioneers of Miami County, and now has the satisfaction of knowing that he is one of the substantial farmers of Harrison Township. Mr. S. has in his possession a very interesting and valuable relic, which is a production of Zurich, Switzerland, in A. D., 1548. It is a German bible and was made by Christopher Froschour. The book has a great resemblance to those now published, although the works of to-dav represent con- siderable impro\ement. The stjde of binding is quite similar, although more cumbersome. It is a book that has been the prop- ertj- of Mr. Jacob Forny, of Canada, and was purchased by the subject's father in about the year 1820, when he arri\ed in this countr\-. Illustrated. 6l6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. WILLIAM C. YARNALL, native of Harrison County, Ohio, was born September 6, 1S41, the sixth child of William and Sarah (Spencer) Yarnall, natives of Ohio, who removed to Indiana in 1861, and located on a farm in Martin County, where they resided during the rest of their lives, his father having died in August 16, 1875. The mother is still living. In his twentieth \'ear he volunteered his services to his countrv, and enlisted in the Sixti-fifth Indiana Volunteer Regiment of Infantry in August, 1862, and continued in that service for three years, or until the close of the war. He entered as a private, and was mustered in at Evansville, Indiana, and took his departure for the South, where he landed on the Southern soil at Henderson, Kentucky, and participated in the following engagements with the enemy of the Union: At Madison, Kentucky-, he took his first hand in a skirmish with the Gra}' Coats, and the first engagement of note in which he took part was at Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This experience was varied by several minor engagements, including Bowling Green, until 1863. The army crossed through Cumberland Gap, and were the first Union troops that set foot in Knoxville, Tennessee, where considerable scouting was indulged in for some time, and then the celebrated battle of Mission Ridge was placed on the list of our subject's engagements, and from there the regiment* proceeded to the siege of Knoxville, where they arrived a short time before the departure of the enemy. They then received a call from head- quarters to report at Tunnell Hill, Georgia, to assist General Sherman in his celebrated campaign, and participated in the Buzzard Roost engagement, which was soon followed by the conflict at Resaca, and after numerous small encounters they next were in front at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain. After this series of engagements a call was issued by General Sher- man for a true and tried •' orderly," and for heroic services and past bravery our subject was chosen for that position, he having made a record that warranted the appointment. In this position he was retained thronghout all the engagements of the war, being in com- pany' with the noted general, and doing his errands until the good news came that " Peace was restored." He was exceptionally prompt and ever ready to do his duty, always at his post and never absent on account of sickness or disabilit}'. Mustered out at Greensborough, North Carolina, and was honorably discharged at Indianapolis. After the close of the war he labored around through the different parts of the State for some time, and then came to Miami County, where he has been a resident for about twenty years. In 1870 his marriage to Miss Mary A. Hooper, a daughter of Thomas H. and Sarepta (Woodruff) Hooper, was solemnized, to whom have been born two children — Charles Thomas and Will- JACKSON TOWNSIIIl'. 617 iam C, the latter of whom was deceased wliile an infant six months of a-he finest specimens of church architecture in the county, 59x0 feet in size, surmounted by a stately spire and w ill cost whe finished and furnished the sum JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 633 of $7,000. The present pastor of the church is Rev. George S. V. Howard, to whose untiring efforts the success of the building enterprise is uu'gely due. The condition of the Church at this time is very encouraging and tlie amount of good accomplished in the past gives hopeful assurance of a prosperous future. The membership is about 70. The officers are as follows: Mary Winters and Joseph Powell, class-leaders; Joseph Powell, R. Powell and James Douglass, stewards; R. Powell, A. Keys, J. E. Flinn. L. J. Reeves and James Douglass, trustees. The Sunday School is large and the teachers therein are active and zealous, doing all in their power to make their work interesting and beneficial. The school numbers about one hundred including teachers and pupils and is under the efficient superintendenc\' of George W. Rider. C/irisliaii (D/st'/J>/c) Church. — This society was organized by Elder Henry Olinger, a pioneer preacher of piety and ability, and dates its history from about the year 1868. Meetings were rirsl held in the village school house and private dwellings, and among the earliest members of the organization were W. J. T. Saucer and famiU', D. F. Howe and family, James Lewis and famih', Joel R. Davis and family, George W. Ammon and family, and Lewis Winthrow and family. The first Elders were Henry Olinger and G. W. Ammon. The organization thus constituted soon increased in membership to such an extent that in 1872 a lot was purchased in the east part of town upon which a substantial house of worship was erected and dedicated that year. Since that time the church has prospered satisfactorily, the labors of the various pastors having been very etlicient, and de\'oted to the devolopment of Christian example, worthy of imitation. Commencing with 1873 the following are the names of the ministers who have sustained the relation of pastors of the society, viz: W. V. Trowbridge, J. A. Taylor, \V. T. Huff. Mr. McKenzie, W. R. Lowe and D. A. McDowell. The membership at this time is about seventy-five. Lewis Winthrow and J. R. Davis are the deacons and W. J. Sau- cer, elder. Presbyterian Church. —The Xenia Presb\terian Church was organized November 12, 1870, b\' Re\-. William Armstrong, who visited the town as missionary of the Muncie Presbjtery, for the purpose of establishing a societ}'. The petition for an organization was duly signed by the following members, viz: J. AI. Darby, Catharine S. Darby. LydiaJ. Kimball, J. A. Douglass, J. K. Darby, A. D. Kimball, F." .M. Shinn, T. N. Shinn. Elizabeth Piatt, Carrie D. Murray, Elizabeth Jones, A. B. Kimball, Henrietta S. Kimball, N. Dangerfield, David Coppock, Letelia Summers, James Parker, V. Flora Darby. A. Cordelia Douglass, J. M. Wright, Mrs. J. M. Wright, J. A. Phelps. Eunice Hand, Jackson Saxon, A. P. Stout, 634 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. M. P. Keasb}' and Emma A. Zeek. The society has met since its organization in the U. B. Church, but at the present time steps are being taken to erect a house of worship. The pastor in charge at this time is Rev. C. T. White. The officers are A. B. Kimball, Elder, and Dr. Keasy, Deacon. The society, though no stronger in membership than at the time of organization, is in a prosperous con- dition and bids fair to remain one of the substantial churches of the town. Xenia Christian C/iurc/i. — To Elder J. J. Copeland is due the credit of sowing the first seed, which, under his careful culture, ger- minated and in due time developed into the Christian Church of Xenia. After visiting the town at intervals for several months and preaching with great acceptance, he succeeded in gathering together about thirty members of his faith, who, on the 13th day of Mav, 1886, were united into a society which has already increased until more than forty names now appear upon the record. In Sep- tember of the above year the Methodist house of worship was pur- chased and removed to the opposite side of the street, where it has undergone a complete remodeling, being at this time a comfortable and commodious edifice. The society, although in its infancy, has a substantial membership, and has already been the means of lead- ing many to forsake the ways of sin and seek the better way lead- ing to virtue and holiness. The officers at this time are as follows: Cyrus Babcock, Elder; E. Edwards, E. Smith and Nathan John- son, Deacons; Alfred Arrick, Treasurer: J. J. Copeland, C\rus Babcock, E. Edwards, Alfred Arrick and Nathan Johnson, Trustees. Xenia To-day. — The growth of Xenia since the completion of the Pan Handle Railroad, in 1868, has been fully up to the expecta- tions of its friends, and it is to-da\' a flourishing town of over one thousand inhabitants. It commands the trade of a large and fertile area of country in Miami, Grant and Howard Counties, and is the principal shipping point between the cities of Logansport and Mar- ion. Its present business is as follows: General Stores — A. Keyes, W'illiam INIinor. R. Powell, Hem-\' J. Rausman and D. Mendenhall. Grocers — J. W. Dale, W. A. Banks, Amos Fowler, J. J. Ros- brough and G. W. Havworth. Hardware — D. O. C. Marine and B. F. Agnes. Druggists — x\gnes Brothers and O. A. Menden- hall. Boots and Shoes — J. E. Harrison. Milliners — Mrs. H. J. Rausbaum, Mrs. J. S. Sellers and Mrs. Willcutts. Jewelers — James Sullixan and Amos Tillman. Photograph gallery — Mrs. Amos Fowler. Attorneys — ^J. W. Eward and Roscoe Kimple. Mechanics A. Michaels, J. S. St. Clair, Sylvester Meek and Peter Michaels, black- smith : Fisher Brothers and J. S. Wilson, wagon makers. Planing mill and lumber \ard — L. G. Murphy. Lumber and coal dealers — Osborne & Anderson. Livery stables — Wimmer & Judy. Butchers — ^John J. Reyburn and A. J. Saxon. Barbers — William Bryan, JACKSON TOWNSHIP. 635 Frank McCollins and Lemuel Ney. Undertaker — Mr. Acker. Tile mill — L. M. Reeves & Son. Saddle and harness maker — A. L. McLane. Postmaster — C. M. Wales. Railroad Agent — Nathaniel Moore. Saloons — Jo.shua Barnes, Berrv Goodwin and Silas Brumbaugh. AiiihoY. — The town of Amboy, on the Pan Handle railroad, four miles northwest of Xenia, is situated in Section 23, Town- ship 25 North, Range 5 East, and dates its history from August, 1867, at which time the original plat, consisting of tiftv-one lots, was laid out by Bennett Fellows, Abijah Ridge- wa\-, John Ptomey and John A. Lamb. The village is an out- growth of the railroad, and for several years after the comple- tion of that thoroughfare acquired considerable reputation as a shipping point for lumber, which was first manufactured in im- mense quantities by Elisha Clark and Messrs. Lowder «& Smith. Kir. Clark located his large steam saw mill in 1867, and the firm of Lowder & Smith came later the same year and did a flourishing business until some time in 1868, when their mill passed into the hands of other parties, who subsequentlv moved it from the place. Clark operated his mill quite success- full}- for about two years, when he disposed of it and aban- doned the lumber business. These mills formed the nucleus of quite a flourishing village, and within a few months a number of residences were erected on the town site. In the summer of 1867 Benjamin Bond came to the place with a stock of general merchandise and erected a business house on the corner of Main and Pennsylvania streets, the location he has since occu- pied. A two-stor}' building was shortly afterward erected on the northeast corner of the same crossing by J. F. Overman, who remained about two years, when he moved his stock of goods to Miami. In the meantime a number of substantial citi- zens became residents of the village, anions whom were B. F. Revnolds, a carpenter and builder: Martin Morgan and D. Mc- Donald, blacksmith, and William Reynolds, \\ho built a plan- ing mill in 1S67, which he operated with good success until some time the following year. Messrs. Lowder & Smith, in connection with their lumber business built a grist mill shortly after locating in the village, and operated it as long as they remained in the place. William Patterson was probabl)' the third merchant in the town, after whom came from time to time the following business men, viz: Thomas & Wilson, general store; Mr. Josephy, who carried on a clothing and dry goods house for a short time: Robert Coats, general merchandise, from 1875 until 1879; Spencer & Sweetser, general goods: Jacob Arnold, Dr. Schooley, Philip G. Yoars, Calvin Edgerton; Edgerton & 636 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Canady, Samuel Vinnedge and B. F. Crites, the last of whom started the tirst drug store in the place. The mercantile interest at the present time is represented by the following men and firms, to-wit: Benjamin Bond, gen- eral merchandise; Jonathan Pearson, general stock; Overman & Son, groceries; W. M. Daly & Son, groceries, and Elleman & Sons, drugs and hardware. In 1873 A. A. Votaw engaged in the manufacture of brooms, which he still carries on, operating a factor}-, requiring the work of several hands. The manufacture of drain tile has been an important industrv of the village for several years, and at the present time a large and flourishing business is being conducted b}- Messrs. Ridgeway & Lamb. P/i\'sicia>is. — The first phvsician in Amboy was Dr. J. A. Baldwin, who located in the fall of 1S68, and is still .in the active practice of his profession, being one of the oldest resident physicians in the township. Dr. H. D. Hatterv, of Logansport, practiced there for some time, as did also Dr. John Wright, E. K. Friermood and Isaac Carey. Additions and I ncorf orations. — The tirst addition to the original plat of the town was made November, 187 1, by B. B. Lamb, who surveved and offered for sale four lots, w'hich were soon purchased and improved. An addition of seven lost was made the same month by E. C. Fellows, and in August, 1S75,. the last addition consisting of ten standard lots, was platted for Mr. Reynolds. In 1881 the citizens of the village by a very decided majority decided to take upon themselves the task of maintaining a corporation, and a board for putting the same into effect was accordingly elected and duly qualified. The ofiicers of the town at this time are as follows, to-vvit: L. D. Lamb, Lewis Daily and Elias Niccum, Trustees; E. F. Cox, Clerk and Treasurer, and George Woodward, Marshal. Schools. — Amboy enjo3S superior educational advantages, and boasts' of two as fine and commodious brick school buildings as there are in the county. The first of these was erected bv public donations in 1872, and afterward leased to the township for a graded school. It is a two-story building, with two large school rooms, and cost the sum of $3,300. The township build- ing, in the same part of the town, was erected a few years later, and represents a value of $1,500. It is a two-story brick, and with the other building affords ample accommodations for the children of the town and adjacent countrv. The present school board is composed of the following gentlemen, viz: J. A. Bald- win, Jonathan Pearson and T. C. Overman. Amhuy friends CJiurrh., one of the largest and most influential religious societies in Miami County, was organized as earlv 1S47 or BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 637 '48, in a small cabin a short distance west of the present site of the village. Among the early members were John Pearson and family, Nathan Arnold and family, William Overman and family and Eli Overman and family, and one of the earliest mem- bers was Mordecai Painter. The house in which the first meetings of the society were held was a deserted dwelling, and this unpretentious building served the congregation until a more convenient log structure could be erected. About one year after the date of the organization a plat of ground, northwest of the village was purchased, and within a short time a hewed log struc- ture 25x40 feet in size was erected and ready for use. The build- served the purpose for which it was intended until about the year 1865, at which time the wants of the society foresliadowed the neces- sity of a house more in keeping with the rapidly increasing congre- gation; accordingly in that j-ear work was commenced upon the present commodious frame building, just north of the village limits, which in due time was completed and formerlv dedicated to the Master's service. This is one of the largest church edifices in the count\-, and will comfortabl)' seat an audience of 500, and cost the sum of $2,000. The church is in a prosperous condition, and at this time has a membership of over 300. Alpheus Trueblood preaches for the congregation and William Small is the efficient Supei'intendent of the Sunday School, which has an average attend- ance of over one hundred, including teachers and pupils. The Elders of the Church at this time are Oliver Canady, William Small, Calvin Edgerton and William Overman. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. A. ACKER, Undertaker and Furniture Dealer, was born in Beaver Countv, Pennsvlvania, January' 20, 1847, son of Edward and Marv (Haskell) Acker. The father was a native of Baden-Baden, Germany, and emigrated to America in 1832, and was a promin- ent phvsician in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, where he established a great water cure. He died October 25, 1855. His wife preceding him in 1850. Our subject received a good education in both Ger- man and English, and at the age of sixteen began for himself b}' going to Pittsburgh and learning the chair-making trade. In August, 1864, he enlisted in the Fifth Pennsylvania heavy artillery, and served until the close of the war. After that he resumed his trade, which he has since followed. Mr. Acker is perfectly conver- sant with all branches of his business, and has followed his occupa- tion in many of the large cities. He established his present busi- ness in March, 1886, where he has since done an increasing trade, and earning his reputation as an honest and reliable citizen. 638 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. He was married July 18, 1874,10 Miss Harriet A. Darby, by whom he is the father of two children — Arminia F. and Agnes G. Pohti- cally he is a Republican and a member of the G. A. R. F. W. AYDELOTT, Miller, is a native of Wayne County, Indiana, and was born October 23, 1837, the \ oungest of a family of three children, born to Stewart and Sarah (Stuart) Avdelott, natives of North Carolina, and among the earh' settlers of Wayne County, Indiana. The father was a Miller, which occupation he followed all his life. Our subject was brought up in Wayne County, enjoying the usual educational advantages offered by the district schools and assisted his father in the mill. After obtain- ing a complete knowledge of milling he began for himself by working at his trade in various localities, and in 1874 came to Xenia and rented the McFeely mill which establishment he con- ducted for a time, and then removed to Wabash, Indiana, where he remained until 1884 when he returned to Xenia and again took charge of the McFeely mill which he has since successfully con- ducted. The mill is a frame building, propelled by steam, and is pre- pared to do both merchant and custom work. Mr. Aydelott was married in 1859 ^^ Miss Catharine Halderman, by whom he is the father of two living children, Jacob and Mary A. Mrs. Aydelott died in 1873, and in 1874 ^^■"- Aydelott was united in maraiage with Pamelia Railsback, who died April 5, 1886. Politically he is a Republican and a good citizen. ABRAHAM I. BEALL was born in Clark County, Ohio, the 27th of December, 1830. His parents were John and Martha (Inbow) Beall. The former was born in 1806 and died in 1834. The latter was born in 1810 and died in 1855. Both were natives of Ohio and were there married. Mr. Beall, the subject of this sketch, was the second of a family of three children, viz: Mar- garet Ann, Abraham and Sabina, of whom Margaret Ann has passed away and Sabina having married J. L. Wilson, who has removed to Nebraska. Mr. Beall spent his boyhood days on the farm, receiving there a fair education in the public schools of that place, and at the age of twenty the family came to Miami Count)-, and in 1858 settled on the farm on which he now resides. In 1855 he was married to Pauline Jump, of Cass County, a daughter of Charles and Mary ( Hopkins ) Jump, natives of Delaware, the former of English and the latter of Irish descent. This union was blessed by nine children, viz: Mary Etta, born June 5, 1857; Charles J., born October 31, 1858: Henry, born February 13, i860: Becky, born December 15, 1862: William Morton, born December 27, 1864; Williard A., born November 9, 1866; Frank Mannie, born June 9, 1868; Pearl, born January 9, 1872; Nora, born January 31, 1875. Henry and Mannie have since passed away, Harry, the 21st of February, and Mannie January 23, 1886. '%,-.• '^ (lay7^7yZQ-^ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 64I Mr. and Mrs. Beall are members of tlie M. E. Church of Xenia. Beginning life a poor boj' on the farm, Mr. Beall has adopted farm- ing for a profes.sion, and has by dint of industry gained a fine home of 200 acres of excellent land in sections 35 and 36, with first- class improvements. Mr. Beall is an enterprising and energetic farmer and a No. i citizen. THOMAS M. BUSBY, the son of Silas and Elizabeth (McAllister) Busby, was born in Madison County, Indiana, Decem- ber I, 1843. Th© parents were both of English descent, the father being born in 182 1, in Indiana, and the mother in Virginia in 1820. The mother came to Indiana when a girl where she was married in 1841. To this union were born five children, viz: Thomas, John Isaac, Vinton, Hester and Elizabeth, all of whom are now living. Mr. Busby, the subject of this sketch, was raised on his father's farm in Madison Count}-, received a good education for that day of log school houses and puncheon floors. On the nth of Decem- ber, 1864, Mr. Busby was married to Eliza Ellen Morris, daugh- ter of Ephriam and Mar}- (McAllister) Morris, the former of Scotch and the mother of Irish descent, the father dying in 1844 Mr. Busby is a member of the I. O. O. F." They began life in Madison County, Indiana, and in February 1874, moved upon the farm on which he now lives in Section 13. To this marriage were born the following children, viz: Augustus, born September 23, 1865; Silas, born September 15, 1870, and Hester, born October 8, 1 881; all of whom are living. Beginning life a poor boy at the age of twenty-one, Mr. Busby has worked hard and has by dint of industry and perseverence gained a fine farm of 108 acres of well improved land in Section 13. As his early life was spent on a farm he has adopted it as a profession and is now an industrious, enterprising 3'oung farmer and a number one citizen. THOMAS CREVISTON, deceased, was born in the State of Penns3-lvania, about the year 1805. He was a son of William and Katie (Brown) Creviston, who were also natives of Pennsylva- nia. He came to Miami County in 1842, and entered a tract of land in Jackson Township, and upon which his son and widow now lives. He was married in Grant County, Indiana, January 26, 1837, to Miss Rebecca Slagal, a native of Darke County, Ohio, born in the year 1820, and a daughter of Conrad and Polly (Homsley) Slagal. To their union the following children were born : Louisa, born November 26, 1837 (deceased), Ellen, born May 6, 1839, Lourinda, born January 14, 1841, David, born July 18, 1843, served in the late war in the One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, Elmira, born March 6, 1847, Thomas J., born April 17, 1849, ^^^^y A., born July 6, 1851, James, born March 14, 1854, and Sarah, born September 3, 1858. Mr. Creviston followed farming through life, 23 642 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. was one of the leading citizens of the county, and died May 12, 1869, honored and respected by all who knew him. James Crevis- ton, the sixth child born to his parents, was reared upon the home farm, receiving his education at the common schools and selected farming as his vocation. He now owns 113 acres of the old home- stead, which is under a good state of cultivation, and upon which are all modern improvements. He is interested in all matters of public welfare and is an industrious, progressive young man. J. W. DALE, grocer, Xenia, was born in Clinton County, Ohio, November 10, 1852, being the eldest of a family of four children born to Enoch and Margaret (Whittaker) Dale, natives of Ohio and Indiana respectivel}'. The father removed to Howard County, Indiana, in 1855, where he followed his occupation — that of a shoemaker — until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Indiana Regiment, and was taken sick and died at Louisville, Kentucky, in 1864. His widow survived him till 1869, when she died at Xenia. Our subject at the early age of eleven years was thrown upon his own resources, and began for himself by working on the farm, at which he continued until eighteen 3-ears old. At this age he accepted a clerkship in a store at Nevada, Indiana, and in 1869 came to Xenia, and was employed as a clerk in a grocery store. In the fall of 1879 he began doing business for himself, and is now one 'of the substantial business men of Xenia. He carries a stock of $2,000, doing a business of $9,000 per year. He is a live business man, and has a large and profitable trade. Mr. Dale was married in 1876 to Miss Eliza Marine, a daughter of Asa and Ann (Somers) Marine. Four children were born to this union — Hale V., born October 31, 1877; Mabel, born November 4, 1879; Homer, born April 15, 1881, and Laura E., born November i, 1883. Mr. Dale is a Republican in poli- tics, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. HON. JOHN W. EWARD, a native of Decatur County, Indiana, was born September 6, 1836, and is the fifth son of a familj- of seven children, of whom James and Dorcas Eward were the parents, both natives of Nicholas County, Kentuck}-, the former born in 1S03 and the latter in 1806. They were married in their native count}-, and in 1831 removed to Decatur County, Indiana. The father who was a farmer was also engaged in the manufac- ture of flax-seed oil, and in 1845 he removed to Marion, Indiana, where his death occurred a year later. He was an honored citizen, and was connected with the Christian Church from boyhood. The mother still resides at Marion. John W. received a thorough, ordin- ary education in the public schools at Marion, Indiana, and while yet a boy, began learning the tanner's trade, at which he worked dur- ing the winter, and during the summer worked in the printing oflice BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 643 at Marion, continuing in the latter until i860 when he began teach- ing school, and was thus engaged for two years. He then went into partnership with Judge Kell\' and purchased the Grant County Uiiioii, which partnership existed until the fall of 1862, when Judge Kelly was appointed Provost-Marshal. He then became associated with Judge Wallace, of Marion, who in the fall of 1863, was appointed paymaster of the army, and Mr. Eward continued to man- age the Union until the return of Judge Wallace, which was in 1864. They then purchased the Marion yonrnaf, consolidating it with the Union. The yotirnal was a Republican paper, and was published by the above named gentleman until 1S65, when Mr. Wallace retired. Mr. Eward continued its publication one year, when he dis- posed of his interest and came to Xenia, where he has since resided, identified with the best interests of Miami Countv. Upon coming to Xenia he was, till 1870, engaged in the mercantile business with J. W. Flinn & Son. He then began the practice of law, and as a Republican, was in 1872, elected to the State Legislature from Miami Countv, and ser\-ed in the special session of 1872 and the regular session of 1873, proving a wise and acceptable legislator. In 1876 he was elected Justice of the Peace of his township. He is one of the organizers and stock-holders of the Xenia Agricultural Society, of which he has been secretary twelve years. He also assisted in organizing the Old Settlers' Association, of which he has been president for eight years, and is a member of the I.* O. O. F. and Masonic fraternities, and the Christian Church. He was mar- ried in 1865 to Miss Rebecca York, by whom he is the father of four living children — Jessie L., Edgar D., Freddie and Elbert. JOHN O. FRAME, Justice of the Peace, born in Hunt- ington County, Indiana, June 16, 1843, is the third of a famil}' of six children born to Felix G. and Mary M. (Alexander) Frame both natives of Preble County, Ohio, where they were married, and removed to Huntington County, Indiana in 1840. The father was a wagon-maker by occupation, which he followed at Warren, Indiana, and was also engaged in keeping hotel. In the year 1849, he removed to Huntington where he remained one year, then removed to Iowa, remaining one year, then returned to to Hunting- ton where he resided until 1853. In the latter year he removed to a farm eight miles from Huntington, where his death occurred the same year. His widow survives him and lives at Andrews, Indiana. John O. was reared on a farm in his native county and was educated at the common schools. At the age of eighteen he enlisted as a private in Companj- F Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged as Ser- geant. He participated in the following engagements: Port Gib- son, Champion Hill, siege of Vicksburg, Red River campaign and numerous other engagements, performing many gallant services for 644 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. his country. After the war he returned to his native county and engaged in farming for a number of years. In 1875 he embarked in the mercantile business at River, Indiana, and was appointed the first Postmaster of that place. He remained in business there until 1877, and in the following year removed to Xenia and engaged in the tin and stove business for a short time, and subsepuently took up the Insurance and Collecting business. In April, 1886, he was elected Justice of the Peace. In 1870 Mr. Frame was appointed and took the census of five townships of his, Huntington, Countv. He was married February 26, 1866, to Miss Ellen Miller, daughter of Leander H. Miller. Mrs. Frame was born July 22, 1846, in Wayne County, Indiana. Fiv'e children were born to this marriage : Effie M., Mary D., Laura E., Charles O. and Horace E. Mr. Frame is a Republican, a member of the Masonic fraternitv and G. A. R., and has always favored the advancement of all laudable pub- lic enterprises. E. K. FRIERMOOD, M. D., is a native of Clarke County, Ohio, where he was born December 29, 1843, second of ten children born to Jacob and Elizabeth (Baker) Friermood, who were also natives of Clarke County, Ohio, the former born in 1820 and the latter in 1822. The father is a farmer by occupation, and in 185 1 removed with his family to Grant Count}', Indiana, where he now resides, and is well known and universally respected. The moth'er died in 1883. Dr. Friermood received a good prac- tical education at the common schools, and also attended school at Sprinfield, Ohio. In 1867 he began the study of medicine with Dr. Kimball, of Xenia, with whom he continued two years, and in February, 1869, graduated from Rush Medical College at Chicago. He soon after located at North Grove, Indiana, for the practice of his profession, where he remained for a short time, then removed to Wabash, Indiana, where he remained until 1877, in which year he located at Amboy, where he has since remained in actixe practice. He has secured a large and successful practice, and has the confidence and respect of the community. The Doc- tor took an active part in the late rebellion, enlisting August 16, 1862, in Company I, Ninety-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and faithfullv served until the close of the war. He was in the follow- ing battles: Jackson, Miss., Dallas, Tex., the Atlanta campaigns. Mission Ridge, was with Sherman in the memorable march to the sea, and was at Washington, D. C, at the Grand Review. In November, 1870, he was married to Catherine V. Thomas, a native of Clarke County, Ohio. Seven children were born to this union, these five yet living: Wilbur R., Elizabeth, Georgi- ana, Flora and Florence (twins). In 1880 the Doctor was elected Trustee of his township, which othce he creditably filled to him- self and all concerned. He is a member of the Grant County BIOGRAPHICAI, SKETCHES. 645 and State Medical Societies, also the Masonic order, and is a staunch Republican. JOHN E. HARRISON, dealer in Boots and Shoes, was born in Darke County, Ohio, September 25, 1830, the eldest child in a family of eight born to Harvey and Minerva J. (Downing) Harri- son. His parents were natives respectively of Barren County, Ken- tuck\-, and Darke County, Ohio, the former born in 1804 and the latter in 1809. The father was a physician and farmer, and came to Darke County, Ohio, where he married, engaged in farming and, where, in conjunction with farming, followed his chosen profession, and conducted a large and successful practice until his death, which occurred in 1865. His widow still lives on the old home in Darke Conntv, Ohio. The paternal grandfather of our subject was Jesse Harrison, a native of Kentucky, where he followed agricultural pur- suits and died in his native State. The maternal grandfather was John Downing, a native of South Carolina. He married Margaret Phares and removed to Ohio in the earh* settlement of that State, and where he died at the advanced age of ninet}- -seven years. His wife died during the late war. John E. Harrison was raised on the old homestead in his native county, where he received a common school education. September 9, 1861, he enhsted in Company G, Fortv-fourth Ohio Volunteer hifantry, and ser\'ed until August, 1865, when he was honorably dischared as Second Sergeant. He participated in the following engagements: Lewisburg, Va., May 22, 1862; siege of Knoxville, December, 1863, and Beverly, W. Va., and other engagements. He was captured by the enemy and taken to Libby Prison, where he was held thirty-five days, and passed through all the horrors of southern prison life during the war. Returning from the war to Ohio, he engaged in the mercantile busi- ness till 1869, in which year, he removed to Xenia, where he also engaged in the mercantile business, and later, in the boot and shoe business. Mr. Harrison is among the leading men of Xenia, and by strict attention to business has an established trade, which requires his entire attention, and which he justly merits. He is a Republi- can in politics, and commander of Post G. A. R. He was united in marriage on February 15, 1855, to Miss Harriet Benson, a native of Darke County, Ohio. Two living children by this union — Minerva E. and Nora J. PETER HELMS, an old and highly esteemed citizen of Miami County, Indiana, was born in Bedford County, Penn.sylvania, Janu- ary 24, i8ii. He is the fifth of a family of six children born to Frederick and Mary (Wilson) Helms, natives respectively of Penn- sylvania and Maryland. Frederick Helms was by occupation a farmer and in 1820 removed with his family to Ohio where he resided until his death. Jacob Helm, the paternal grand-father was a native of Germany and came to America previous to the Revo- 646 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. lutionary war, in which he served his adopted country. He later engaged in keeping hotel near Bradford, Pennnsylvania, where he died at an advanced age. The maternal grand-father was Caleb Wilson, who was a native of Maryland and of Irish extraction. Peter Helms was reared on a farm, and his educational training received in the common schools, and at an early age learned the carpenter's trade at which he worked for a number of years. In the fall of 1848 he came to Miami Countv and settled in Union Township where he lived three years, then removed to Jefferson Township, and thence in 1863 to Jackson Township, locating on his present farm, which consists of 160 acres of fine and well improved land. Lydia Jacobs, a native of Pickaway Count}-, Ohio, born March 11, 1820, a daughter of Charles Jacobs, became liis wife in the year 1840. This union was blessed with the following family: Riley, born November 29, 1840; Oron, born February, 1845; Mahala, born October 3, 1847: Harmon, born March 24, 1850; Charles, born June 14, 1854; Isaac, born January 22, 1857 and Allen, born February 2, 1862. Mr. and Mrs. Helms are highly respected in the community in which they live. . He has always advocated the cause of the Democratic party, having cast his first ballot for Andrew Jackson in 18^2. DR. JEREMIAH S. KELSEY, one of the leading physi- cians of Xenia, is descended from a famih- of that name, who were of Puritan stock, dating back to the early days of the colonies. His paternal grandfather, William Kelsey, was among the first to volun- his services in 181 2, in which war he died while fightinnA.MI COUNTY. short time the first settlers were abstainers from force of circum- stance. But it was hardly to be expected that a class of people who had been educated to the use of ardent spirits as a regular beverage would settle down to total abstinance in a day when public senti- ment was not on that side of the question. For a friend to call on a neighbor and find the bottle emptj- occasioned a feeling of cha- grin and gave rise to a suspicion of stinginess in the mind of the caller. There were some however, who were exceptions to the . 67 I of the \illage were James Mason and a Mr. Leslie, blacksmiths, Mr. Reel, cabinet maker and wheel wright, and Frank Edwards, manufacturer of fanning mills. The latter business was subse- quently carried on by P. S. Kennedy, who run a shop for about five years, making during that period, over a thousand mills. Among the early industries of the town was a tannery, operated b}' Joseph Oldham, and an ashery established by John Griswold about the year 1845. Mr. Griswold did a successful business for about five years, and at the end of that time sold out to Mr. Oldham who subsequently started the tannery. The first phvsi- cians of Mexico and vicinity, were Drs._ Brown and Reasoner. Others were Drs. Rose, Herriman, Thompson, John Constant, E. N. Banks. A. D. Coe, who came in 1856, and are still in active practice. Isaac Walker, Dr. Davis, Dr. Rowdabush, Marion Constant, John Allbaugh, William Mendenhall, James McKee and James Armstrong. Additions to the Town. — For the first eighteen or twenty jears of its history, Mexico enjoyed the reputation of the leading business place in the countv, outside of Peru. Its growth, while not rapid, was substantial, and as earl}- as 1850 all the lots in- cluded in the original plat were improved. The projection of a railroad through the county, early in the fifties, attracted consid- erable interest, and in August. 1854, '^ railroad addition of forty- five lots was sur\e3ed and placed at the disposal of purchasers. This road was not built, however, and the reaction caused thereby had an unfavorable effect upon the town. Two additions have been made since that time, viz: Benjamin Graft's addition of 21 lots, in April 1873, and R. Bond's addition of 20 lots, in Octo- ber of the same year. Mexico JManufactiiring Comfiany, was incorporated May 2, 1876, with a capital stock of $10,000. The first officers of the com- pany were Daniel Griswold, President: C. H. Kline, Secretary; J. L. Wilsoh, Treasurer, and the same gentlemen, with Benjamin Graft and Joseph Brower, Directors. The company was organized foi- the manufacture of all kinds of plain and fancy furniture, including school and church furniture and fine fixtures for banks, etc. The companv has been represented on the road by competent salesmen, and the business amounts to something over $12,000 yearly. A good building, supplied with the finest modern machinery, stands on Eel river, in the northern part of the town, to operate which a force of twentv-five skilled mechanics is required. The business, while not so prosperous as formerly, is still quite remunerative, and the establishment is destined to remain the leading industry of Mexico. The following were the oflkers for 1886: C. II. Kline, President; Daniel Griswold, Secretary; V. C. Homan, ''I'reasurer : Benjamin 672 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUN'TV. Graft, V. C. Homan, C. H. Kline, Daniel Griswold and Amos Gipe, Directors. Present Busineis Register. — Mexico at this time is represented by the following exhibit of business: Elias dinger, general store; Lantz & Duncan, general stock; C. H. Kline, hardware; Samuel Ridenour, drugs; T. H. Ireland, drugs; George Griswold, confec- tionery and restaurant; A. D. Coe and James Armstrong, ph\sicians and surgeons; Elisha Lawrence and Joseph Lester, blacksmiths; James Stratton, George Coil and Samuel Jones, carpenters; Amos Mobley and David Fiske, wagon-makers; William Jenkings and Enoch Smith, shoe-makers; L. P. Rood, harness-maker; Miller, Stafford & Co., saw-mill and lumber business; Edward & Son, flour- ing mill; Daniel Griswold, railroad agent and grain buyer; B. D. Jacobs, proprietor of the Central Hotel; William Diliman, Postmas- ter, and Frank Trac}-, barber. Lodges. — Mexico Lodge, No. 347, F. cS: A. M., was organized a number of 3'ears ago, and is still in a prosperous condition. The officers at the present time are A. D. Coe, W. M. ; Harvej- Pearson, S. W. ; Oliver Armantrout, J. W.; C. H. Kline, Secretary; Daniel Griswold, Treasurer; Chas. Skinner, S. D.; Edward Black, J. D. ; James Merrick, Tyler. The hall in which the lodge was erected in 1880, and with other property owned by the organization, repre- sents a value of $1,200. The lodge is in the enjoyment of a reason- able degree of prosperity, with a membership at this time of about sixty. Mexico Lodge., No. 400, J. O. O. J^., was instituted July, 1872, with the following charter members: George P. Kunse, W. V. Beecher, W. D. Allen, L. W. Hulce and R. R. Leonard. Nine members were initiated at the first meeting, and the records show the following elected upon this occasion: G. P. Kunse, N. G.; W. D. Allen, V. G.; C. H. Kline, secretary, and W. V. Beecher, treas- urer. The present officers are J. L. Clouse, N. G. ; O. P. Cotterman, V. G. ; L. P. Road, Rec. Sec. ; C. H. Kline, Permanent Sec. ;'and C. P. Kuns, Treasurer. The present membersjiip is seventy-two. The lodge owns the hall in which it meets and also a good store room below. The building is a fine brick structure, erected in the year 1880 at a cost of $3,200. The hall is a model of neatness and con- venience, being elegantly furnished, and is one of the finest lodge rooms in the State. Mexico M. E. Church. — The history of Methodism in Jeffer- son Township dates from about the year 1835, at which time Rev. John A. Brouse, a pioneer missionary, visited the early Eel River settlements and preached wherever and whenever an opportunity presented itself. He was followed by others whose names were not learned, and from the above year until 1838 but Httle is known of the progress of the church in this part of the countr\'. In the JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 673 latter year Rev. J. B. Mashon was the regular pastor on the Roches- ter circuit, which at that time included a large area of the counties of North Central Indiana. He held services from time to time near Mexico, but it was not until the following year that an organization was attempted. It is not positively known what minister brought about the organization, but the generally accepted opinion seems to be that the real founder was Rev. Burroughs Westlake, the pastor in charge of the Rochester circuit in 1839. ^ small class was organized near Mexico that year, and among the early members were the following: Nathaniel Leonard and wife, William Eidson and wife, Charles Murden and wife, Nathan Raines and wife, Henry Howes, Sr., and wife, Joseph Burke and wife, Samuel Brown and wife, William Smith and wife, Thomas Henry, Asa Leonard, Mat- thew, Orpha, Elizabeth and Timothy Murden. Meetings were first held in the houses of the different members, and it was not until 1844 that the society found itself sufficientl}' able to erect a house of worship. In the fall of that j'ear a substantial frame building, 30x40 feet in size, was erected in the northern part of the village, on what is known as the Rochester road. The completion of this house marked an era in the history of the society, and from that time it began to rapidly increase in numbers and influence. Among the early preachers were Revs. Eventus Dowd, Ansel Beech and Nel- son Green. Beginning with the year 1843, the following is a com- plete list of pastors and assistants to the present time: Allen Skill- man, Paul Jones, O. P. Boyden, Jacob Colclazer, D. F. Strite, Geo. Guild, P.J. Beswick, Mr. Hazen, Arthur Badley, who was the tirst pastor on the Me.xico circuit, which was formed out of the southern part of Rochester circuit in 1849; P. F. Milner, John Davis, Wm. Reeder, J. C. Medsker, Mr. Carter, S. VVoolpert, R. H. Calvert, S. P. Stephens, J. C. White, H. J. Lacy, R. Buchanan, A. S. Lakin, Lewis Roberts, W. J. Vigus, Enoch Waymire, W. J. Martindale, Samuel Lamb, under whose administration the circuit was again divided, and reduced to four points, to-wit : Chili, Mexico, Bethlehem and Bethel. This was done in the 3ear 1864. Sin(;e then the following pastors have had charge of the work, viz : Wm. Comstock, V. M. Bea- mer, John Birt, David Thompson, P. Carland, James Leonard, C. E. Disbro, R. J. Parrott, W. R. Jordan, F. A. Robinson, James Johnson, J. H. Ford, George Hill, I. J. Smith and the present incumbent, G. B. Work. In 1864 the present brick house of worship was erected and formally dedicated. The building is 32x46 feet in size, has a comfortable and commodious audience room, and represents a capital of $2,200. The present member- ship of the church is about 86. The officers are Noah Hoover, class leader: A. Moore, John Harter, Noah Hoover, W. V. Beecher and Vinton Homan, trustees. The Sunday School, under 674 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. the superintendency of Thomas Whitecraft, is well attended and in a flourishing condition. German Baptist iyDiinkard) Chiircli, of Mexico, is an old organization, its history dating as far back as the year 1837. Quite a number of the earh settlers in the vicinity of Mexico, had formerly belonged to this denomination and they did not neglect their religious duties after locating in the new country. Among the early preachers of the faith in the township were Elders Jacob Brower and Moss, \vho held services at the resi- dence of Peter Fisher, prior to the date already referred to. These meetings finally culminated in the organization of a society, among the early members of which were Peter Fisher and wife, Nathaniel Clingenpeel and wife, Jacob Brower and wife, Henry Brower and wafe and Salome Brower. Within a few years after the organization, the society had a substantial membership and from that time until 1861, the meetings were held at private residences, barns and groves. In the latter year the present large brick house of worship north of Mexico was erected and dedicated to the service of God after the manner observed by the church. It is 44 x 64 feet in size and will comfortably seat an audience of 500 persons. The society at this time has an active membership of 360 and is reported in a prosperous condition. It has been the means of accomplishing an untold amount of good in the community and its annual meetings are frequenth' attended by thousands of persons from all parts of the country. The follow- ing are the names of some of the preachers of the church, to-wit: Matthew Moyer, George Brower, William Moss, Jr., George Bair, Jonathan Swihart, Isaac Fisher, Jacob Barnhart, Daniel Balsbaugh, John Eikenberry, Samuel Myers, David Keifer, Noah Fisher, Joseph Brower, Jacob Fisher and Jacob Metsker. The officers at this time are Isaac Fisher and Jacob Barnhart, Elders; Samuel Mj^ers, Noah Fisher and Joseph Brower ministers of the second degree. Robert Metsker and Jacob Fisher, ministers of the first degree. The deacons are, Noah Flory, Benjamin Fisher, Zeri Baldwin, John Earnest, David Fetrow, Henry Balsbaugh, James Himelick, Noah Sullivan, John Liar and Levi Eikenberry. Mexico Baptist Church, was organized at the residence of George Hutchinson, near Mexico, on the 5th day of June, 1861. It is an offshoot from the Weasaw Creek Church, in Union Township, and at the date of the organization was composed of the following members: John Shadinger, Jacob Wilkinson, Eliza- beth- Shadinger, Rebecca Strayer, George Ulch, Elizabeth Ulch, David Sloppy, W^illiam Cunningham, A. W. Hedges, George Hutchinson, Henry Howes, Mary Copeland, Lavina Wolfe, Nanc}^ Burnett, Jesse Copeland, G. Copeland, Marj^ Wilkinson, Fanny Sloppy, Eliza Cunningham, Sophia House, Louis A. Shadinger, n/^JC^onJ-oo. JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 677 Nancy E. Hutchinson, C3-nthia Hutchinson, Catherine Sloppy, Lucy L. Strayer. The first officers were Wm. Cunningham, clerk ; George Hutchinson, deacons. The Methodist Church was used for meet- ings until 1863, at which time a frame house of worship was built in the northwest part of the town. It is still in use and with recent repairs is quite a comfortable building. The following ministers have exercised pastoral control of the society since its organization, viz: J. M. Maxwell, J. Barrett, J. B. Allen, P. Rowden, C. Hall, Rev. Mr. Smith, Madison Reed, E. J. Delp and J. B. Bair, the last named being the pastor in charge at the present time. The church has a membership of sixt3--nine. The officers are as fol- lows: John W. Turnipseed and J. J. Stafford, deacons; J. J. Stafford, Levi Fisher and David Sloppy, trustees. John W. Turnipseed is superintendent of the Sunday school, which has an average attendance of about seventy scholars. Denver. — The thriving town of Denver is situated at the junction of the I., P. & C. and the Detroit branch of the "Wabash railroad, in the northeast corner of the township, distance four miles from Mexico, and eight miles from Peru. " The original plat em- braces that portion of the northeast quarter of Section 21, Township 28 North, Range 4 East, which lies North of the hmits of the Detroit railroad, and East of the right-of-wa}- of the I., P. & C. railroad, and also one tier of lots in the Southeast quarter of Section 16." The town was surveyed August, 1872, for Harrison Grimes, proprie- tor, and the plat as described above consists of seven blocks and sixt}--tive lots, with the following streets : Chandler, Emmons, Pay- son, Bond and Harrison, the first four running North and South and the last named East and West. The town was the immediate out- growth of the Detroit railroad, and the advantages of its location are such as to indicate that it is destined to become a flourishing commercial and manufacturing center. Its close proximity by rail to man}' of the leading cities of Indiana, and its location in the midst of a rich agricultural district, unmistakably point to a future of per- manent prosperity. As originally surveyed the town laid in parts of three townships — Jefferson, Union and Richland, a fact which led to a great deal of inconvenience in the matter of schools, etc., and after much importuning on the part of the citizens, the County Board subsequentl}- modified the boundaries of the different town- ships so as to throw the village entirely in Jefferson. The advantages of the railroad junction early attracted business to the place, and within a couple of years after the founding of the town, its growth and development was such as to astonish its most sanguine friends. According to the testimony of Mr. Wooley, who came to the place shortly after it was laid out, and who is still a resident, the earliest comers to Denver were Frank Moody, David and William Fetrow, Asel Griffith, W. H. Howe and Jerry Johns. Mr. Moody bought lots 25 678 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. number one and two in block one, and erected thereon a residence, probably the first in the town. He built a blacksmith shop on Har- rison street, and had the honor of being Denver's first mechanic. David Fetrow engaged in the blacksmithing business also, and W. W. Fetrow built a store room on the corner of Harrison and Pay- son streets, block four, which he stocked with groceries and drugs. Mr. Howe erected a dweliug on Harrison street, where Mr. Ander- son now lives. Mr. Johns built on the same street and Mr. Griffith started the first steam saw-mill in the town, with which he did a flourishing business. The first general store was opened by Harri- son Grimes and R. R. Charles, near the I., P. & C. railroad, north of the crossintr. Their business house fronts Harrison street and is occupied at this time by Oscar Piper, who purchased the stock of the original proprietors. John Charles and Martin Wooley opened a hardware store a few years after the platting of the town, on Pay- son street, where the drug store of O. T. Snvder now stands. After continuing the business as a firm, for a short time, Mr. Charles pur- chased the stock and subsequently sold out to J. N. Woolev, who continued the business about two years. The following business men and firms carried on the mercantile trade at different times, to-wit: Clem Kej'S, N. B. Kiplinger, Trout & Hutchinson, Piper & Wilkinson, Piper & McGinle}^ Lon Wilson, S. D. Laden, Harry Armantrout, Jasper Downey, Hamilton & Enley, J. J. Cooper and perhaps others. The earl^- mechanics were Messrs. Woody and Fetrow, alread}- mentioned, H. M. Fox and H. M. Lambert, carpen- ters, and John DeBolt, shoemaker. Industries. — As already stated the first manufacturing enter- prise of any kind brought to Denver, was the steam saw-mill ope- rated by Asa Griffith. After running the mill a short time, he moved it from the village, but subsequently brought it back. It is still in operation, the present proprietor being a Mr. Dickerman. The Kessler Brothers engaged in the saw-milling business in 1876, and for the time were quite successful. They subsequentlj- supplied machinery for the planing of lumber, with which they did a fair business. The Constant Brothers, in 1876, purchased a large build- ing, which had been previously erected by Mr. Grimes, and sup- plied it with a planing mill and machinery for the manufacture of wind-mills, rakes, barrel hoops, washboards and various other arti- cles. They engaged in the business with every prospect of suc- cess, but after continuing it some time, disposed of the mill without realizing a fortune. The last proprietor was C. E. Noftzgar, who, in addition to planing lumber and manufacturing some of the articles mentioned above, did a fair business in the manufacture of wagon- felloes and spokes. The mill ceased operations about the year 1879. The Denver flouring mill was built in the year 1880, by Cloud & Son, who operated it about eighteen months. It was then pur- JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 679 chased b}' a joint stock company, and later Messrs. Amey & New- bold became the proprietors. They thoroughly refitted the mill and supplied roller machinery, since which time it has done a lucrative business — grinding about one hundred bushels of wheat per day. Tlie present firm is Newbold, Stowman & Kessler. Denver College was established in the year 1876, at which time a joint stock company was organized for the purpose of erecting a building. The college building, a large brick structure, was erected that year at a cost of $3,500, and under the management of Prof. J. A. Reubelt, the school was opened under very promising circum- stances. Mr. Reubelt taught two terms, and finding that the insti- tution did not come up to his expectations, resigned the charge into the hands of other parties. Profs. Hershej' and McGinley after- wards took control of the school, but like their predecessors, they failed to make it a success. The company was subsequently dis- banded, and at this time the building is used for the public schools of the town. Additions to Denver. — The following additions to the town have been surveyed and platted from time to time to time, viz: George Brower's addition of eighteen lots, December, 1872; R. R. Charles' addition, 11 lots, March, 1874; Charles' 2nd addition, 21 lots, July, 1875; Grimes' addition, 16 lots, October, 1880; Howe's addition, 9 lots, June, 1881, and Noftzgar's addition in March, 1881. The Denver Sun, a sprightly local paper devoted to the interests of the town and adjacent country, was estabhshed Novem- ber, 1883, by Dr. O. F. Snook. The Sun is a seven column folio, neutral in politics, but fearless in the advocacy of all measures and movements having for their end the public good. It is issued every Saturday and has already reached a circulation of about one thou- sand. P/iysicians. — The following medical men have at different times practiced the healing art in Denver, to-wit: Drs. Smith, Ladue, Downey, Hewit, Abbott, Million, Martin and Jameson. The resi- dent physicians at this time are Drs. J. Q. A. Robbins, O. F. Snook and Newell. Churches. — Denver has several healthy religious organizations, the oldest of which is the Methodist Episcopal Church, organized by Rev. R. J. Parrot in the year 1873. The original membership was about thirtv or fortv, the majority of whom had previousl}- be- longed to the Chili and Mexico societies. The house of w'orship, a beautiful frame edifice, 36x50 feet, was completed in 1873, at a cost of $1,500. The following pastors have served the church from time to time: R. J. Parrot, W. R.Jordan, F. A. Robinson, James Johnson. J. H. Ford, George Hill, I. J. Smith and G. B. Work. The membership at this time is about 100 and the society is in the enjoy- ment of a reasonable degree of prosperitj'. W. J. Smith is Class 68o HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Leader, J. P. Tharp and Imii Murden, Stewards, Charles Long, Quincy Howes, Joseph Smith, J. P. Tharp and Imri Murden, Trus- tees, and S. S. Bappert, Superintendent of the Sunday School. Denver Baptist Church was organized April, 1886, by Rev. E. C. Robbins. Sixteen members were enrolled at the time of organization, a number which has since been increased by nine additions. Immediately after the organization, steps were taken towards the erection of a house of worship, and at this time the building is rapidly nearing completion. It stands on a beautiful elevation in the northern part of the town, and in size is 36x60 feet, and cost the sum of $2,500. It is a beautiful frame edifice, and reflects great credit upon the congregation. The little society has already accomplished a good work in the village, and we bespeak for it a prosperous future. Rev. E. C. Robbins, to whom credit is largely due for the erection of the building, is pastor in charge. The officers are: F. P. Stowman, deacon; Moses Murphjr, clerk; William Cunningham, Moses Murphy and Dr. Ladue, trustees. The Sunday School recently organized is under the efficient superintendency of F. P. Stowman. Church of the Seventh Day Adventists was organized about the year 1883 by Revs. Reese and Covert, with a membership of twenty persons. Meetings were held in the college building until 1885, at which time a neat frame temple of worsiiip was erected in the southeast part of the town at a cost of $800. The organization is not very strong in numbers, there being at this time but thirty active members. Revs. William Covert and E. E. Marvin preach at regular intervals. The Sab- bath School is superintended by Jesse Woods. Lodges. — Denver Lodge, No. 537, I. O. O. F., was insti- tuted August 14, 1876, with fourteen charter members. The organization has a valuable property, erected in 1880 or i88i,' and the* membership includes many of the leading citizens of the village and adjacent country. It is in a prosperous condition, with the following officers in the chairs, viz. : Rufus Pontius, N. G. ; C. Bell, V. G.; J. Q. A. Robbins, permanent secretary; W. J. Smith, recording secretary; W. O. Piper, treasurer, and W. W. Fetrow, district deputy. Josiah Brozuer Post, A^o. 66, G. A. R., was established in 1 881 with a membership of thirty. The following were among the first officers: William Trout, commander; Abraham Whist- ler, J. V. C. ; M. Bappert, adjutant; O. Armantrout, officer of the day, and F. M. INIoody, officer of the guard. Tiie present membership is about fort}'. The officers are: M. Bappert, com- mander; C. Bell, S. V. C; W. O. Piper, J> V. C; G. A. Mar- tindale, adjutant; Joseph Smith, quartermaster; J. R. Waymire, chaplain: W. W. Fetrow, surgeon. & ' JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 68l Denver To-day. — The growth of Denver since the erection of the tirst building in 1872 has been all that its friends could reasonably desire, it being at this time the third town in point of population in the county. During the year 1886 buildings representing a capital of over $16,000 were erected in the vil- lage, and all kinds of real estate commands good prices. The recent discovery of rich deposits of iron and lead ores in the vicinity is attracting considerable interest to the place, and if the de]iosits prove as abundant as is anticipated, the time is not far distant when Denver will resound with the music of rolling mills and manufacturing establishments. Should the expectations of the people prove true in regard to the mineral wealth of the countrv, there is no doubt that the town will at no distant day be an important commercial and manufacturing point of Northern Indiana. The following is the business of the town at this time : Gen- eral stores, W. O. Piper and Pontious and McElwee; hardwares, Lock wood and Robbins: groceries and meat market, Richard Wright; drugs, W. W. Fetrow and O. T. Snyder; bakery and groceries, J. E. Million; restaurant, E. C. Bennett; milliners, Martindale »& Wooley, Mrs. J. H. Johns and the Belt Sisters. Mechanics — E. A. Guyer and Mac. Lawrence, blacksmiths; J. N. Woole}' and J. H. Johns, wagon makers; B. Bird, shoe- maker; Joseph Smith, Geo. A. Martindale and J. D. Arnest, carpenters; Andrew Yount, maimfacturer of patent wire picket fence. Hotels — O. J. Hunt, Denver House, and Mrs. Lucy Medsker, Commercial Hotel. Livery stables, J. H. Johns and O. J. Hunt; attorneys, John Tudor and W. J. Smith; railroad agent, G. W. Cannon; express agent, W. W. Fetrow; postmaster, Frank GritEth; barber, W. H. Kirkpatrick. SiriiigiozL'ii, the site of an early settlement, about two and a half miles southeast of Mexico, was so called on account of the number of houses scattered along both sides of the Peru road. A saw mill was operated here man}' years ago and at one time there was a general store kept by one Evans Bean. John S. Winters operated the mill for several years. It was afterwards completely destroyed by fire. Mr. Ireland, at present a resident of ^Iexico, moved to the locality many years ago and opened a cabinet shop. He made all kinds of furniture and met witli reasonably fair success in that branch of industry. He subsequently moved to Mexico and took away with him the last vestige of business from Stringtown, which at "this time is scarcely distinguishable from the surround- ing countrv. Court cr, a small station on the I., P. & C. Railroad in the eastern part of the township, was laid out August, 1869, by R. F. Donaldson. The plat consists of twenty lots and lies on a part of the northeast quarter of section 34, township 28, north range 4 682 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. east. There are at this time a small general store, blacksmith shop, school house and several residences. It is a fair trading point and is situated in one of the best parts of Jefferson Township. BIOGRAPHICAL, SKETCHES. OLIVER ARMANTROUT was born in Peru Township, this county, April 26, 1844. His parents, R. and Margaret (Hoover) Armantrout, were natives of Virginia and Pennsvlvania, respectively, and were born as follows: The father in Virginia July 25, 1809, and the mother in Penns\'lvania, March 28, 181 1. The}' were married in Montgomery County, Ohio, August 3, 1829, and from thence moved to Delaware County, Indiana, in 1831, and from there to Cass County, Indiana, and in 1S35 to Miami County, settling at Peru, where he engaged in blacksmithing, and afterward resided until his death, which occurred November 3, 1843. His widow subsequently married Andrew Williams, and moved with him to Jefferson Township, where she still resides. Nine children were born to her, viz.: David H., born May 3, 1830; Margaret J., born August 3, 1831 (deceased); Peter, born Juh- 29, 1833; Lewis, born March 28, 1835 (deceased); John S., born March 18, 1837; Elizabeth J., born March 4, 1839 (deceased); William F., born July 13, 1 84 1 (deceased), and Oliver, born April 26, 1844, by Mr. Ar- mantrout, and Mary (deceased), by Mr. Williams. Oliver, our sub- ject, was married in Richland Township, this county, June 24, 1866, to Martha J., daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Shoop) Hersey. She was born in Butler Township, this county, June 3, 1849. After Mr. Armantrout, our subject's marriage, he settled on his present farm, where he has resided smce. He owns at present 100 acres of fine and well improved land. Mr. Armantrout was elected to the office of trustee of Jefferson Township in 1882, and re-elected in 1884. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and a member of the G. A. R. Order. He enlisted in the service May, 1864, in Compan}' K, 134th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served as a pri- vate until September, 1864. Mr. Armantrout is a wide-awake and enterprising man, and is highlv esteemed bv all. JAMES S. BAIR (Trustee of Jefferson Township) is a native of Botetourt County, Virginia, born Nov. 13, 1848. His parents, George and Catherine (Crumpacker) Bair, were also both natives of Virginia, and were born as follows: The father in Franklin County, Jan. i, 181 2, and the mother in Botetourt County, Oct. 3, 181 3. They were married in Bote- tourt County in October, 1839, where the mother died, in June, 1856. The father subsequently married Barbara Snyder, and in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 683 1857 moved to Miami County, Indiana. In 1858 he purchased and settled upon the farm on which our subject now resides, in Section 30, Jefferson Township, where he afterwards resided until his death, which occurred August 24, 1864. He was the father of seven children, \iz: Mary J., Lewis E., Sarah, Ann, James S., Jones B. and Catharine E. James S., our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1857, was married Oct. 13, 1870, to Sarah, daughter of George and Catharine (Minick) Maus. She was born in Miami County, Ind., Jan. 7, 1850. After Mr. James S. Bair's marriage he tirst settled on the old home farm in Miami Count\', where he resided until the spring of 1S72, at which time he moved to Fulton County, Ind., and resided until the following spring of 1873, when he removed to Miami Countv, Indiana, purchasing and settling upon the old home farm, where he has resided since. He owns eighty acres of line and well-improved land. Has had born to him three children, viz: Leota A., born July 11, 187 1; Stella M., born Aug. 25, 1875: George F., born Sept. 9, 1878. Mr. Bair is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highly esteemed bv all who know him. ZERI M. BALDWIN, a native of Wayne County, Indiana, was born November 16, 1827, and is the eldest son of Enos and and Elizabeth (Hoover) Baldwin, natives of Guilford County, North Carolina. The subject was reared in Jefferson Township, and received a verj' good education, attending the first school in the township, taught by William M. Sumalt. He has always followed the occupation of farming, and now owns eighty acres of good land. In November, 1849, he was married to Rachel S. I'tomey, a native of Wayne County, Indiana, and is the father of four children — James N., Author C, Pearlie M. and Emma F. His wife died in 1885, and in 1873 he was again married to Miss Amanda English, of Licking County, Ohio, to whom four children were born. AUGUSTUS BANKS, a native of Mifflin County, Pennsyl- vania, was born November 29, iSoo, to James and Catharine (^Nel- son) Banks, natives of Pennsylvania, and of Scotch and Irish nation- alitv respectivelv. They settled about midway between Pittsburg and Philadelphia, and assisted in driving the Indians from that country. The subject remained on the farm until he was twenty- one years of age, receiving a common school education, and he was then engaged in Lewiston, Penn., to learn the printer's trade, in which he succeeded, and afterwards worked in the cities of Balti- more and Philadelphia as a jour printer, he then went to Jackson, Tenn., and established the Western Jiepiihliniii, where he staged about two years, and thence to Florida, after which tour he returned to Huntington, Penn., and assumed charge of the paper at 684 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. that place and held editorial control about four years, when he went to Pittsburg to accept the position of foreman of one of the leading papers of that cit\'. There he remained two j'ears and then emigrated westward to Peru in 1838 and became the editor of the Peru Gazette, associated with James Scott, now of Delphi. After a time he purchased a yoke of oxen and commenced farm- ing. In September, 1834, ^e married Miss Sarah McConnell, a native of Huntington, Penn., and their marriage resulted in the birth of the following children: John (deceased), James (killed at Mission Ridge), Mary, Catharine, Martha, Sarah, David (deceased) and Augustus. Politically he is a Republican. WILLIAM V. BEECHER is a native of Chester County, Pennsylvania, born December 4, 1831. His parents, Benjamin and Margaret ( Finney ) Beecher, were both natives of Pennsylvania. The former, Benjamin Beecher, was a son of John and Mary A. (Albert) Beecher, who were natives of Germany, and from thence emigrated to the United States in a very early day, settling in the State of Pennsylvania. Thev were the parents of fifteen children, viz: George, Samuel, Jacob, William, Benjamin, John, Catherine, Lydia, Barbra, Mary, Margaret, and four whose names have been forgotten. Benjamin, the father of our subject, was born in Berks County, Pennsylvania, October 3, iSoi. He was married in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, October 13, 1825, to the above Margaret Finney, who was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania, August 6, 1804, and a daughter of Sam- uel F. and Elizabeth Finney. After their marriage they settled in Lancaster Count}-, Pennsylvania, and from thence moved to Chester County, Penns\lvania, and from there to Frank- lin County, Ohio, in the year 1856, and in 1861 moved to Miami County, Indiana, where they afterward resided until their respective deaths. Thev were the parents of the follow- ing nine children, namely: Cvrus F., Samuel F., Eliza J., William V., Mary A., Catherine M., John J., Margaret S. and Lydia.. William V., our subject, resided in Pennsylvania until 1852, when he went to Columbus, Ohio, where he engaged in the cai'penter trade, and was there married, April 3, 1S53, to Julia A., daughter of William and Julia A. (Carpenter) Beecher. She was born in Franklin County, Ohio, October 4, 1835. I" 1861, Mr. Beecher, removed to Miami County, Indiana, and first settled in Peru' Township, where he purchased land and resided until February, 1872, at which time he pur- chased and settled upon the farm on which he now resides in section 35, Jefferson Township. He owns at present • 160 acres of fine and well improved land. He has had born to him nine children, viz: Margaret J., born April 7, 1854; M^'T J-! born January 31, 1858: EHzabeth E., born May 31, 1S60; George L., BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 68$ born September 22, 1862; Cyrus M., born January 22, 1865; William C, born March 2, 1868; Ulysses G., born June 22, 1870; Charles W., born December 30, 1872, and Gracie P., born July 23, 1S75. Mr. Beecher is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highly esteemed by all who know him. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' order, and he and wife are members of the M. E. Church. A. D. COE, M. D., is a native of Portage County, Ohio, and was born January 24, 1824. His parents were Samuel A. and Lucy (Lester) Coe, natives of Massachusetts and Connecticut, respect- ivelv. They were married at Granville, Massachusetts, and from thence, in an early day, emigrated to Portage County, Ohio. They were the parents of six children, viz: Samuel A., William L., Eliza, Mar}-, Alonzo D., our subject, and Heman L. A. D. Coe was educated at Twinsburg Academy, Twinsburg, Ohio, and also at the Western Reserve College, at Hudson, Ohio. In 1847 he began reading medicine at Newark, Ohio, under the instructions of Dr. N. W. Hubbard of that place, remaining under his instructions until 1849, when he entered the Starling Medical College of Columbus, Ohio. In 1850 he attended the Alban}' Medical College, of Alban}', New York, after which he returned to Portage Count)', Ohio, and the following winter taught school, and in the spring of 1 85 1, came to Indiana, locating the same fall in Miami County, where he engaged in teaching school and practicing his profession. In November, 1856, he located at Mexico, Indiana, where he began the practice of medicine, which he has devoted his whole attention to since. In the winter of 1857 and '58 he attended the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he graduated February 26, 1858. He was united in marriage at Mexico, Indiana, November 20, 1858, to Emily J. Hartpence (wife of John Hart- pence, deceased), and daughter of Horace W. and Desire (Kent) Mason. She is a native of New York, born near Syracuse, February 24, 183 1. The doctor has had born to him two children, viz: William H. and Dulcenia C. He is a member of the Masonic order, and a member of the Logansport Medical and Surgical Association. He is an intelligent and enterprising man, as well as a thorough medical scholar, and a successful and eminent physi- cian and surgeon. R. R. DONALDSON settled in the Miami Reserve in Jeff- erson Township, in the year 1S41, and is a native of Louden County, near Centerville, Virginia; born March 3, 182 1, to Thomas and Nancy (Saffer) Donaldson, both natives of Virginia. He was brought up on a farm in Ohio and when he came to this county continued in the same vocation. For about si.x- teen years he bought and sold grain, and in May, 1886, came to Peru and now controls the Wabash elevators. In 1850 he 686 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. served in the House of Representatives, and was re-elected in 1852 and 1863. In 1885 a convention of the members of the first constitutional convention was held, which he attended. He has also held the office of Township Trustee. In Julv, 1840, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Rickner, a native of Ohio, to whom five children were born, viz: Leroy P., Lorenzo, L. B., Ruth A. and Emma. He is a Master Mason, a Royal Arch member and Knight Templar. MATTHEW DUNCAN (of the firm of Lantz & Duncan, dealers in general merchandise, Mexico, Indiana), was born in Clin- ton Countv, Ohio, Juh' 7, 1854. His parents, Emanuel and Margaret (Stotlar) Duncan, moved to Grant County. Indiana, about 1856, and from thence, subsequently, to Miami County. In about 1877, he returned to Grant County, where he still resides: the mother died in Miami County in about 1868. Matthew Duncan, our subject, came with his parents to this ■ county, where he was married August 20, 1877, to Julia A., daughter of John and Julia A. Hines. She was born in Fairfield Count}', Ohio, October 5, 1857. After Mr. Duncan's marriage, he first settled in Fulton Countv, Indiana, where he engaged in farming about one year, after which he moved to Miami County, and, subsequently, to Grant Count\', where he resided until 1884, when he moved to Mexico, Indiana, and formed a partnership with Mr. Lantz in the mercantile business, purchasing the interest of Mr. Sullivan. He has had born to him four children, viz: Emanuel (deceased), Marion F., Lillie and Rosie B. Mr. Duncan and wife are members of the Baptist Church. GEORGE EIKENBERRY was born in Preble County, Ohio, May 6, 1830. His parents were Peter and Eliza (Morningstar) Eikenberrv, natives of Virginia and Maryland, respectively, and of German and English extraction. The former, Peter Eikenberry, was a son of Henry Eikenberry, a native of Virginia. His father, Peter Eikenberrj-, emigrated from Germany to the United States in an earlv day. Henrv Eikenberrv was married in Virginia to Marv Landess, and from thence moved to Preble County, Ohio, in about the year 1806. They were the parents of seven chil- dren, viz. : Elizabeth, Samuel, Henry, Peter, Isaac, David and Benjamin. Peter Eikenberry, the father of our subject, was born in Virginia, May 8, 1803. He moved with his parents to Preble County. Ohio, and was there married to Eliza, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Swisher) Morningstar. She was born in Maryland on January 13, 1806. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Eikenberry settled in Preble County, Ohio, where they made their home until their deaths, which occurred as follows: The father died February 14, 1871, and the mother Nov. 29, 1885. They were the parents of eleven children, viz: Mary, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 687 George, Elizabeth, Lydia, Levi, Henr)', Isaac, Eliza, Peter, and two which died in infancy and not named. George, our subject, was married in Preble County, Ohio, March 21, 1851, to Rebecca, daughter of Abraham and Nancy (Moses) Miller. She was born in Augusta County, Va., Sept. 18, 1832. In the following October, after subject's marriage, he moved to Miami County, settling upon the same farm on which he now resides in Section 27, Jefferson Township. He owns 268 acres of fine land, well-improved and under a high state of cultivation. He has had born to him ten children, viz: Henr}- F., born July 17, 1852, and died February 19, 1854; Sarah J., born Nov. 5, 1854; ^""^ L., born Aug. 26, 1857; Mary A., born March i, i860; Ida M., born Oct. 27, 1862; Levi I., born March 11, 1865; Charles, born March 29, 1868, and died April 12, 1868; Peter A., born Jan. 11, 187 1; Eliza O., born Feb. 12, 1874; infant son, born Jan. 28, 1877, deceased. Mr. Eikenberry was elected to the office of County Commis- sioner of this county in 1876, and re-elected in 1880. He is a member of tlie Masonic order. He is an enterprising man and is highly esteemed bv all who know him. WILLIAM W. FETROW, one of the leading business men of Denver, was born in Coshocton Count}-, Ohio, April 2, 1832. He was the second son born to Daniel and Ruth Ann (Smith) Fetrow, both natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent. Wil- liam spent his boyhood and youth with his parents in his native county. At the age of eighteen he began to learn the black- smith's trade. He served an apprenticeship of three years in the town of Keene, Ohio. After finishing his trade, he engaged in blacksmithing first in Keene, Ohio. In January, 1856, he came to this county and located at Wooleytown, Richland Township. Here he worked at his trade fourteen years. In the spring of 1865 he went out into the service of the Union Army, in Com- panv K, 155th Indiana Regiment, from which he was honorably discharged on the 6th of August following. At the close of the war he returned to Wooleytown and resumed his trade. In the spring of 1869 he removed to Milford, Kosciusko County, where he worked at his trade until the fall of 1872. At that time he returned to this count}- and located in Denver, where, in the fol- lowing spring, he engaged in the drug business. February 8, 1857, he was married to Mrs. Ann E. Kirby, a native of Phila- delphia, Penn.sylvania, born July 21, 1831. She was the daughter of Amos and Anna (Ellis) Wooley. To this union three chil- dren were born. They are Charles C, born December 13, 1858; Mary H., born February 18, i86i;and Ann Elizabeth, born July 6, 1863: all of whom are living. Mr. Fetrow lost his first wife December 27, 1871, and on the 14th day of December, 1876, he was married to Airs. Eliza J. Ireland, a native of Preble County, 688 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Ohio, born May 8, 1844. She was the daughter of James P. and Rebecca J. (Johnson) Kemp, natives of Maryland and Ohio, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Fetrow are both members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Fetrow is a member of the I. O. O. F. and G. A. R. Lodges and a Republican in politics. He is a pleasant, intelligent gentleman, a reliable business man and a good citizen. He held the office of postmaster in Denver, from April i, 1873, to September 30th, 1885, and discharged the duties of the office with credit to himself and satisfaction to its patrons. He has been the agent of the U. S. Express Company at Denver since October, 1873. From October, 1873, to June i, 1883, he was the agent of the American Express Company- and since the latter date he he^ has been the Agent of the Pacific Express Compan\'. He has a neat little drug store, well stocked, and is doing a fair business. JOSEPH FISHER, an old and highly esteemed pioneer of ' Miami County, Indiana, is a native of Franklin County, Virginia. His parents, Peter and Elizabeth ( Brower) Fisher, were both natives of Franklin Countv, Virginia, and were born as follows: The father May 2, 1792, and the mother December 24, i793- The former, Peter Fisher, was a son of Philip Fisher, who was a native of Germany, and from there immigrated to the United States, in an early day, settling tirst in the State of Pennsvlvania, and from thence, in an earlv dav, moved to Franklin County, Virginia, \\ here he afterward resided for a number of years. He was the father of nine children, viz: Solomon, Mary, Jacob, Daniel, Peter, Catharine, Abraham, Jonathan and John B. Peter, the father of our subject, and Miss Elizabeth Brower, were married in Franklin County, Vir- ginia, and from thence thev emigrated to the State of Ohio, in the fall of 1828, and settled in Preble Count}', where they resided until the fall of 1836, at which time, they moved to Miami Count^■, Indiana, and settled upon land in Sections 25 and 30, Jefferson Township, which he had entered previoush', and upon which he resided until death. His wife died January- 20, 1867, and he survi\ed her until May 27, 1878. They were the parents of ten children, viz: Lydia, born January 22, 1819; George, born July 23, 1820: Benjamin, born February 10, 1822; Joseph, born No\ember 10, 1823; Mary, born April 10, 1826: Isaac, born August 22, 1828: Aaron, born October 7, 1830; Hannah, born December 28, 1833; Noah, born May 28, 1839; Jacob, July 14, 1842. Joseph, our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1836, where he has resided since. He was married in Jefferson Township, this county, January 12, 1848, to Elizabeth, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Teal) Brower. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, September 28, 1827. Her par- ents were both natives of Virginia, and settled in Ohio, in an early day, where they were married, and from thence, in 1837, moved to BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 689 Miami County, Indiana, settling in Jefferson Township. They were the parents of ten children, viz.: Aaron, Joseph, Noah, Mary, Rebecca, Abraham, EHzabeth, Sarah, Susan and Jacob. In 1848, Mr. Joseph Fisher purchased land in Section 35, Jefferson Township, this county, upon which he settled in August of the following year, and resided until 1864, when he settled upon land in Section i, this township, which he had purchased in the vear previous. Here he resided until March, 1884, when he moved to Mexico, Indiana, where he now resides. He owns at present 240 acres of tine and well improved land, and also one of the finest residences in Mexico. He has had born to him four children, viz. : Martha A., born October 30, 1848; Dulcinea E., born November 29, 1S51; Sarah E., born August 15, 1857; Rosa J., born Novem- ber 21, i860. Mr. Fisher and wife are members of the German Baptist Church, and are highly esteemed by all who know them. DAVID A. FISHER is a native of Carroll County, Indiana, and was born February 8, 1840. His parents, Nathaniel and Francis (Altic) Fisher, were both natives of Franklin County, Virginia, and were born as follows: The former September 8, 1810, and the latter December 25, 1807. They were mar- ried in Franklin County, Virginia, and from thence in 1S34, moved to Darke Countv, Ohio, and from there to St. Joseph Count}-, Indiana, and subsequentl}' to Carroll County, where he died May 28, 1847. His widow subsequently married John Brower and moved with him to Miami County, Indiana, where she still resides. She is the mother of six children, five bv Mr. Fisher and one by Mr. Brower. David A., our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1850. He was married in Jefferson Township, this county, October 14, 1866, to Eliza- beth, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhoads) Harter, She was born in Preble County, Ohio, April 3, 1841. After Mr. Fisher's marriage he settled upon the same farm on which he now resides, in Section 21, Jefferson Township, where he resided until 1872, when he removed to Peru, Indiana, and engaged in mercantile business three years. In October, 1876, he removed to his farm in Jefferson Township, where he has since resided and engaged in farming and fruit growing. He owns 113 acres of fine and well improved land. He has had born to him three children, viz: Infant son, born August 19, 1867 (deceased), Charles L., born July i, 1869, and Iva L., born February 29, 1872. Mr. Fisher was elected to the oflice of asses- sor of Jefferson Township in 1886, which office he at present holds. JOHN O. FISHER was born in Franklin County, Virginia, November 27, 1841. His parents, John B. and Alie A. (Teel) Fisher, were also both natives of Franklin County, Virginia. He 690 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. came to Miami Count}-, Indiana, in the fall of 1849, and in 1850 begun the carpenter trade, which he completed and has engaged in the same more or less since. He was married in Miami Count}-, Indiana, July 3, 187 1, to Sarah A., daughter of Benjamin and Hannah Graft. She was born in Miami Count}-, Indiana, May 12, 1843. Soon after Mr. Fisher's marriage he settled at Can- ton, Ohio, where he resided until the spring of 1872, at which time he moved to Miami County, Indiana, and purchased and set- tled on a small farm in section 31, Jefferson Township, where he resided only about one year, when he purchased and settled on a farm in section i, Jefferson Township, and in 1876 he moved to Wabash County, Indiana, where he resided until the spring of 1886, at which time he removed to Miami County, Indiana, and purchased and settled on the farm on which he now resides, in sec- tion 6, Jefferson Townshi]i. He owns at present 120 acres of fine and well-improved land. He has had born to him six children, viz: Linnie B., Harvey A., M}-rtie B., Ethel M., Charles (de- ceased) and Frederick. LEVI FISHER is the son of George and Barbara (Moss) Fisher, natives of Virginia and Indiana, respectively, and born as follows: The former in Franklin County, Virginia, July 23, 1820, and the latter in Union County, Indiana, August 19, 1822. They were married in Jefferson Township, this county, November 11, 1841, and afterward settled on his father's farm in Jefferson Township, where he resided about one year; then settled upon land in Section 30, Jefferson Township, where he resided until August, 1883, when he settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Section 31 in Jefferson Township. He has had born to him nine children, viz: William, born September 9, 1842; Henry, born May 11, 1845; Levi, born December 14, 1847; Sarah J., born November 13, 1850; Elizabeth, born May, 30, 1853, died Septem- ber 21, 1862: Minerva, born February 23, 1856, and died March 4, 1858; Peter M., born July 15,1859; Alston W., born August 4, 1863, and died February 2, 1884; Christena, born July 10, 1868, and died April 15, 1871. Levi, our subject, was married in Cass County, Indiana, January 2, 1873, to Mary J., daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Graft) Dillman. She was born in Cass County, Indi- ana, February 14, 1854. After our subject's mai-riage he settled upon a farm in Jefferson Township, where he engaged in farming, and where he resided until the fall of 1875, ''^ which time he moved to Mexico, Indiana, and engaged in butchering in partnership with J. W. Turnipseed, for some time. He afterwards engaged in buying and shipping stock, and in the spring of 1877, removed to Cass Countv, Indiana, and engaged in farming and stockdealing until 1 88 1, when he removed to Mexico, and again engaged in stock dealing. In the winter of 1886, he purchased the agency of BIOGRAPHICAL, SKETCHES. 69I this county for the Flint and Walling Manufacturing Company, and has since engaged in putting down the tubular wells and wind- mills. He owns 90 acres of land in Section 25, Jefferson Township. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He assessed Jef- ferson Township in 1882, 1883, 1884 and 1885. ISAAC FOUTS is a native of Preble County Ohio, and is one of ten children born to Michael and Sarah (Brower) Fonts, natives of North Carolina and Virginia, respectively. They were born as follows: The father in North Carolina Sep- tember I, 1797, and the mother in Virginia, June 6, 1801. They were married in Preble Count\, Ohio, August 24, 1820, and from thence in the fall of 1838, moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon land in Jefferson Township, Section 28, where the}' afterward resided until death, which occurred as follows: The father died January 10, 1857, and the mother September 27, 187 1. They were the parents of ten children, viz: Jacob, born June 8, 1821; Elizabeth, born Februarj- 11, 1822; Anna, born October 28, 1824; Sarah, born October 6, 1826; Rosanna, born February 18, 1829; David, born April 22, 1831; Isaac, born January 13, 1834; Andrew, born May 2, 1836; Sophia, born January 23, 1840, and Mary, born January 3, 1845. Isaac, our subject, came with his parents to this country- in 1838, where he has resided since. He was married in Wabash County, Indiana, January 7, 1858, to Diannah, daughter of Jacob and Nancy (Harter) Hoff. She was born in Carroll County, Indiana, July 22, 1837. After his marriage he settled upon the same farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 34. He owns at present 222 acres of tine and well improved land. He has had born to him four children, viz: William H., born January 31, 1859; John H., born August 28, 1861; Jacob M., born July 21, 1864, and Alice M., born March 14, 1869. Mr. Fouts and wife are mem- bers of the German Baptist Church. ANDREW FOUTS, son of Michael and Sarah (Brower) Fouts, was born in Preble County, Ohio, May 2, 1836. He came with his parents to this county in 1838, and has resided here since. He was married in Jefferson Township, this count}', Aug. 8, 1858, to Mary Roller, and afterward settled upon the farm on which he now resides, his father's old homestead. He lost his wife by death, Oct. 3, 1868, having born to him by her three children, viz: Lavina, born Feb. 7, 1861; Albert, born April 25, 1863, and Nathan, born Oct. 17, 1866. Mr. Fopts was again married Feb. 10, 1870, to Polly Hoff, by whom he nas had three children, viz: Cora D., born Sept. 4, 1872; Clarence M., born June 14, 1875, and Irene E., born Sept. 11, 1876. Mr. Fouts owns 220 acres of line land in this county, and 80 acres in Wabash Countv, Indiana. ABRAHAM GRAFT, son of David and Anna (Grove) 692 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Graft, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, November 24, 1813. He came with his parents to Preble County, Ohio, where he was married March 3, 1839, '•° Anna, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Swisher) Morningstar. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, May 15, 1818. Her father was born in Virginia, October 23, 1779, and her mother in Maryland in August, 1782. They were married in Maryland, April 16, 1S05, and shortly afterward moved to Preble County, Ohio, where they afterward resided until death, which occurred as follows: The mother, October 16, 1851, and the father, May 16, 1861. They were the parents of nine children, viz: Elizabeth, Mary, Susanna, Catherine, Solomon, Jones, Anna, Julia A. and L\dia. In 1 84 1 Mr. Graft, our subject, moved to Randolph County, Indiana, where he purchased land and resided until the spring of 1850, at which time he moved to Preble Count}-, Ohio, and in the following fall he moved to Miami County, Indiana, where he has since resided. In May, 1882, he settled on the farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township. He has had born to him seven children, viz: George, born November 24, 1839, and died October 13, 1882; David, born April 7, 1841; John, born May 14, 1843; Elizabeth, born February 5, 1S48, Lydia, born November 22, 1852; Mary C, born October 20, 1856, and one son who died in infancy not named. BENJAMIN graft" (retired farmer and grain merchant, and one of the old and highly esteemed pioneers of Miami County, Indiana), is a native of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, born August 3, 1815. His parents, David and Anna (Grove) Graft, were natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia, respectively. They were married in Augusta County, Virginia, and from thence, subsequently, moved to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, after which the}' removed to Augusta County, Virginia, and from there to Preble County, Ohio, where the mother died Novem- ber 5th, 185 1, at fifty-seven years of age. The father afterward retired and made his home with his children until death, which occurred in this county, July 29, 1854. He was the father of twelve children, viz; Abraham, Benjamin, David, Eliza, Nancy, John, Samuel, Daniel, Margaret, Henry, and two' which died in infancy not named. Benjamin, our subject, was married in Preble County, Ohio, April 14, 1839, to Hannah, daughter of Henry and Hannah (Dillman) Brower. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, March 22, 1818. In 1841, Mr. Graft, our subject, moved to Miami County, Indiana, landing here in September of that year. He purchased and settled upon land in Jefferson Township, Section 19, where he resided until the spring of 1864, at which time he set- tled upon a farm in Section 6, Jefferson Township, which he had purchased previously. Here he resided until the spring of 1880, at BIOCKAPIIICAL SKKTCIIES. 695 which time he mo\ed to Mexico, Indiana, where he now resides. lie has had born to him eleven children, viz: Isaac II., born Feb- ruary 29, 1840; Nanc}-, born May 31, 1841, died April 23, 1868; Sarah A., born May 12, 1843; John, born November 2, 1844; Harriet, born August 14, 1846; David, born March 2, 1848; Isabelle, born January 24, 1850, died August 10, 1870; Margaret, born November, 9, 1851; Catharine, born April 22, 1853, and died Sep- tember I, 1854; Mariah E., born May 25, 1855; Alonzo D., born June 27, 1859. Mr. Graft is an -enterprising and highly esteemed citizen. He was one of the three earl}- Trustees of Jefferson Town- ship, and in 1870, was elected to the office of County Commissioner, and re-elected in 1873. ALONZO D. GRAFT, son of Benjamin and Hannah ( Brew- er ) Graft, was bom in Jefferson Township, this county, June 27, 1859. ^^ ^^'"^'^ married in Berrien Countv, Michigan, December 13, 1877, to Martha A., daughter of Allen and Rebecca (Jenkins) McGuire. She was born in Jefferson Township, this county, March 7, i860. After marriage, Mr. Graft first settled upon his father's farm in Jefferson Township, where he resided until the spring of 1886, when he moved to Mexico, Indiana, where he now resides. He owns 160 acres of fine land in Fulton County, Indiana, which he purchased in April, 1886. He has had born to him one child — Freddie E., born December 4, 1878. Mr. Graft is an enterprising and intelligent young man, and has a prospering future. HARRISON GRIMES, one of Miami County's pioneers and one among the early settlers of Union Township, was born in Mont- gomery County, Ohio, February 14, 1823. He was the oldest child born to Jeremiah and Barbara (Hashbarger) Grimes, natives of Mar\land and Virginia respectiveh', the former of Irish and the latter of Dutch descent. Harrison left home at the earl}- age of ten years and went to Preble County, Ohio, where he worked upon a farm for his board and clothes until he reached the age of sixteen, when he was given his choice of keeping his place or learning the blacksmith's trade. After due consideration he chose the lat- ter, but owing to an inaccurate understanding with the man who was to give him the instruction, he abandoned the notion of learn- ing the trade and concluded to remain upon the farm, which he did until he was twentv-one of age. He had been bound to his cmplo}er, who, wlien Harrison became of age, was to give him one hundred and fifty dollars. He took a horse worth fifty dollars and one hun- dred dollars in money, which represented his entire capital at that time. Upon leaving the farm he came on foot, with a thirty-seven and one-half pound budget upon his back, to this county. This was in March, 1844. Here he worked upon a farm until the following June, when he walked the entire distance back to Preble County, Ohio, but in the following August he again came to this county — 2B 6g6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. this time on horseback. During the first 3ear of his resi- dence here he worked by the month and job at any and all kinds of work which he could find to do. In 1846 he purchased a farm of ninety-three acres in Section 16, Union Township. There he located, and immediately set about clearing up a farm. To do this without any assist- ance necessarih- devolved upon him a great deal of hard work. He chopped, grubbed, burned brush, rolled logs, plowed, and in fact did all kinds of hard work which the de\elopment of a new country necessitates. Since then he has purchased other lands, until at one time he owned about 1,000 acres. His attention during his entire life has been given to agricultural pursuits, though he has in more recent \ears given some atten- tion to the grain business, the buying and selling of hogs, and to the raising of fine stock. He was married on the 4th of May, 1845, to Elizabeth Brower, a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, born of Dutch descent, February 8, 1826. She was the daughter of George and Sarah (Swihart) Brower, both natives of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Grimes ha\e had nine children. Their names are: Josiah, born July 31, 1846: Hiram, born Jan- uary 5, 1848, died September 12, 1880; Joiin H., born March i, 1849, ^^^^ February 11, 1853; Sarah D., born August 22, 1851; George T., born October 24, 1854; Albert, born September 5, 1856; Martha J., born December 24,. 1857; William, born June 29, 1859, and Charles, born October 13, 1868. Politically, Mr. Grimes is a Republican. He has held the office of Assessor in Union Township two terms. He has, where he resides, a fine farm of 187 acres, nearh- all of which is in a high state of cultivation. His farm is fitted up with good buildings and fences, and is one of the most desirable locations in the county. Mr. Grimes is an honest, upright, square-dealing man, a pushing and enterprising farmer, and a good citizen. He tegan life without a dollar, but through industr\-, perseverance and economy, he is now in good circumstances. DANIEL GRISWOLD (dealer in grain and seed, and also agent of the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific R. R., Mexico, Ind.) was born in Lamoille County, Vermont, August 24, 1830. His parents, John and Mary (Weeks) Griswold, were natives of Vermont and Massachusetts, respectivel}-. The former was a son of Daniel and Sarah Griswold, who were both natives of Vermont, where the mother died, and he subsequently married a Miss Berry and moved to Miami County, Ind., in the year 1845, where he afterward resided until death. He was the father of six children. John Griswold, the father of our subject, was born in Franklin County, Vermont, in the year 1805, and was married to the above Mary Weeks in 1826, who was born BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 697 in Massacliusetts in the year 1801. After their marriage they settled in Lamoille County, Vermont, where the}' resided some time, and from thence moved to Massachusetts, and from there to Miami County. Ohio, and subsequently to Darke County, and from thence to Miami Count\', Ind., in 1S44, settling at Alexico, where the}' afterwards resided until their deaths, which occurred as follows: The mother died in 1873, and the father in 1886. Thev were the parents of two children, Adelia, and Daniel, our subject, the elder member of the family. He came with his parents to this county in 1844, and has resided here principally since. In 1852 he went to California, where he engaged in mining until 1854. Haying engaged in the merchantile business at Mexico, Ind., with his father preyiously, after his return to Mexico, Ind., in 1S54, he again engaged in the mercantile trade with his father, and was united in marriage at Mexico May i, 1854, to Louisa, daughter of Henry and Alary (Howard) Bliss. In i860 he purchased 196 acres of land in Section 7, Jefferson Township. In 1863 he sold his interest in the store. In 1872 he began the grain and seed trade at Mexico, Ind., and has engaged in the same ever since. In 1876 he purchased stock in the Mexico Manufacturing Company, which he still owns. In 1867 he was elected to the office of trustee of Jefferson Township. He is a member of the Masonic order. He has had born to him eight children, viz: Alton (deceased), John, Cassius N., George, Edward, Nellie (deceased), Emma and May. Mr. Griswold is an intelligent and enterprising man. ■ DANIEL IL\RTER is a native of Preble County Ohio, and was born March 4, 1834. ^'^ parents, Jacob and Elizabeth (Rhoads) Harter, were natives of Virginia and PennsyKania, respectively. They settled in Montgomery County, Ohio, in an early day, and from thence moved to Preble County, Ohio, and from there to Miami County, Indiana, in about the year 1849, and settled upon the same farm upon which our subject now resides, where they afterwards resided until deaths, which occurred as fol- lows: The father died May 30, 1879, ^^ '^^e age of 77 years, 7 months and 18 days, and the mother died May 8, 1881, at the age of 77 years and 7 months. They were the parents of eight chil- dren, viz : Rebecca, Mary, John, Daniel, George, Catharine,' Eliza- beth and Nancy. Daniel, our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1849, and has resided here since. He was united in mar- riage in Jefferson Township, this county, November 21, 1867, to Nancy, daughter of^ Levi and Ursula Miller. She was born in Miami County, Indiana, July 21, 1844. After Mr. Harter married, he settled upon his present farm, where he has resided since. He owns, at present, 360 acres of fine and well improved land. He lost his wife by death, January 19, 1879, ^^^ having borne four 698 HISTORY OF .MIAMI COCNTY. children, viz: Dora O., born September 25, 1868; William E., born June 21, 1870; Iva L., born March 11, 1872 (deceased); Delbert D., born Juh' i, 1875. ^I'"- Harter is one of the substan- tial and enterprising men of Miami County. He is a wide-awake citizen and is highly esteemed by all who him. . MICHAEL HINER, an old and highly esteemed pioneer of Miami County, Indiana, is a native of Highland County, Virginia, and was born July 10, 1819. His parents, John and Rachel (Hoover) Hiner, were also both natives of Highland County, Vir- ginia, and of Scotch-Irish extraction. The former, John Hiner, was a son of John and Margaret (Burner) Hiner, who were married in Highland Count}', Virginia, where they resided until deaths. They were the parents of eleven children, viz: Alexander, Joseph, Jacob, Herman, John, Esther, Jemima, Molly, Mary, Jane and Lucinda. John Hiner, the father of our subject, and Rachel Hoover, were united in marriage in Highland County, Ohio, and from thence in 1836, moved to Miami County, Indiana, settling in Peru Township, where they afterward resided until death. Thev were the parents of nine children, viz: Margaret, Mariah, Catherine, Herman. Eliza- beth, Michael, Eli, John and Joseph. Michael, our subject, came with his parents to this county, in 1836, and has resided here since. He was married in Richland Township, this county, May i, 1843, to Catherine S., daughter of Samuel D. and Catherine ( Deff enbaugh ) Rank. She was born in Union County, Pennsyhania, February 26, 1826. In 1862, Mr. Hiner, our subject, settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 18, and has since resided. He owns at present. 277 acres of fine and well im- proved land. He has had born to him eleven children, viz: Mary, Rachel, Samuel, Mariah. Catherine, Ada, Agnes, Ruth, Jesse, and two which died in infancy and not named. VINXENT C. HOMAX is a native of Preble County, Ohio. His parents, Benjamin and Rachel (Curtis) Homan, were natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey respectively. The former, Ben- jamin Homan, was a son of Eber and Jane (McPurdy | Homan. who were natives of New York and Ireland, and were born as fol- lows: The former at Long Island City, New York, September 7, 1764, the latter in Ireland, Ma\- 25, 1775. They were married in Pennsyhania and settled in Fayette County, where the mother died April 14. 18 10. He subsequenth' married again and moved to the State of Ohio, where he died March 25, 1840. They were the parents of seven children, viz: David, born September 26, 1802: James: born October, 1803: Phebe, bori^ November 7, 1804: Eder, born March 16. 1806; Jane, born June 7, 1807; Keder, born May 29, 1809, and Benjamin, the father of our subject, the eldest member of the family, born in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, August 13, 1801. He and Rachel Curtis were married in Warren BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCHES. 699 CduiUv, Ohio, March 27, 1823. She was born in New Jersey, Jul}- 14, 1S02. After Mr. Benjamin and Rachel lloman's marriage, they tirst settled in Warren Count}-, Ohio, atid subsequenll}- moved to Clinton County, Ohio, and from thence to Preble County, Oliio, where he still resides. His wife died July 15, 1844, and he subse- quently married Mari^aret Grissam. lie is the father of se\-en chil- dren, viz: William, born February 13, 1S24, and died July 3, 1S32; Ezra, born October 24, 1827, and died July 9, 1832; Sarah J., born October 3, 1S32; Vincent C, born October 18, 1837, and Mary E., born May 16, 1841, by the first wife, Rachel; and Ben- jamin F., born September 17, 1847, and Nancy K., born August 5, 1849, bv his last wife, Margaret. \'incent C, our subject, was educated in Preble County, Ohio, was raised on a farm until histwentv-lirst year, after which he clerked in a grocery at Eaton, Ohio, for a short time, and in August, 1859, he, in partnership with his father, purchased a stock of groceries at that place and engaged in business until March, 1865, at which time he sold out and came to Me.xico, hidiana, and in April of that year, purchased a half inter- est in a stock of general merchandise at Mexico, Indiana, with Janies L. Wilson, with whom he carried on business until Septem- ber. 18S2, at which time they traded their stock of-goods for a tract of land in Pulaski County, Indiana, consisting of 662 acres, of which Mr. Iloman ownes a half interest. He also owns 150 acres of fine land in Jefferson Township. Miami County, which he purchased in 18S4. He also owns stock in the Mexico Manufacturing Companv, and a line residence in Mexico, where he resides. He was married at Mexico, Indiana, October 27, 1863, to Sarah J., daughter of James and Sarah ( Ault) Wilson. She was born in Preble Countv, Ohio, July i, 1840. Mr. Homan is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highl}- esteemed by all who know him. He is a member of the Masonic order, and he and his wife are mem- bers of the M. E. Church. CHARLES H. KLINE (of the firm of Khne & Bender, dealers in hardware, stoves, tinware, paints, glass, sash, doors, etc., Mex- ico, Indiana) is a native of Berks County. Pennsylvania, and was born January 27, 1837. His parents, Josiah and Hannah (Snyder) Kline, were also both natives of Pennsylvania, and were born as fol- lows: The father, March 13, 181 2, and the mother, February 8, 181 4. After their marriage, they settled first in Berks County and resided for some time, after which they moved to Lehigh County, where they still reside. They are the parents of seven children, viz: E^clwin S., William S., Amanda E., Mary A., Benjamin F., Preston J. and Charles H., our subject, the eldest member of the family. lie was educated in Penns}lvania. and engaged in farming and teaching school. He enlisted in the service July 20, 1861, in Battery A, Fifth United States Artillery, and served until January 700 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. 27, 1863, at which time he was discharged and returned home. He was wounded at the battle of Malvern Hill, Virginia, on July i, 1862, by rifle balls, one through the left shoulder and one through the riglit foot. In the spring of 1 864, he came to Miami County, Indiana, and after a short stay, returned to Pennsylvania, and in the spring of 1865, he went to Kansas, where he engaged in driving teams for the government, and in July, 1865, returned to Miami County, Indiana, where he was united in marriage, on August 27, 1865, to Martha, daughter of Philip and Rosanna (Long) Sullivan. She was born in Williams County, Ohio, March 4, 1844. After Mr. Kline's marriage, he settled on Eel River, near Mexico, where he engaged in the lumber business until 188 1, when he moved to Me.xico, Indiana, and engaged in the hardware business, which he has since continued. He also owns a large interest in the Mexico manufacturing establishment, of which he is the present president. He was elected to the oflke of Trustee of Jefferson Township in 1874, and held the office for three successive terms. He had born to him five children, viz: Carrie E., Minnie C, Rosa A., Elmer E. (deceased ), and Elbert S. Mr. Kline is a member of the Masonic Order: also, a member of the Odd Fellows' Order. He and wife are members of the Reformed Church. Mr. Kline is an enterpris- ing citizen, as well as a wide-awake business man. JOHN H. LANTZ (of the firm of Lantz & Duncan, deal- ers in general merchandise, Mexico, Ind.) was born in Union Township, this count}', Aug. 12, 1855, and is the son of Gabriel and Caroline (Ream) Lantz. He was married in Union Town- ship, this county, February 24, 1876, to Miss Priscilla, daughter of William D. and Harriet (Mann ) Tracy. She was born in Miami County, Ind., September 5, 1S59. In April, 1876, Mr. John H. Lantz, our subject, settled at Denver, Ind., where he opened up a flour and feed store, which he continued for sev- eral months, and in the fall of 1878 he moved to Mexico, Ind. In Julv, 1881, he opened up a meat market at that place, and in October, 1884, opened up a stock of groceries 'in partnership with Philip Sullivan, and at the same time carried on butcher- ing. In April, 1885, Mr. Sullivan sold out his interest to Mat- thew Duncan, since which time the firm has been Lantz & Duncan. In April, 18S6, they disposed of their meat market and have since turned their full attention to the mercantile trade, and are at present commanding a large and e.xtensive business. In April, 18S6, they purchased a half interest^ in the large and commodious brick building known as the Wilson & Homan block, into which they moved their stock of goods, and bv adding more to it the}' now have one of the largest and finest stocks of general merchandise in the place. They are both wide-awake and enterprising young business men, and are BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. JOT highh" esteemed by all who know them. Mr. Lantz has liad horn to him one child, Maud D., born Juh- 17, 1881. Mr. Lantz and wife are members of the Baptist Church. PHILIP M. LAWRENCE, of Denver, was born in Auglaize County. Ohio, October, 9, 1850. He was the third son born to John and Nancy (White) Lawrence, the former a native of Pennsj-lvania,. and the latter a native of Maryland. When Philip was 3et a child, he accompanied his parents to St. Joseph Count}-, this State. They came to this county in 1857, and located at Chili, Richland Township. In the \icinity of that place Philip spent liis youth, working iipt)n a tarni. In 1866 he accepted a position as brake- man upon the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad, between Crestline, Ohio, and Pittsburgh. He was thus emplo\'ed nearly one year. He then returned to this county, and for one \ear worked upon a farm. He then went to Iowa, where he worked upon a farm about eighteen months. He then returned once more to this countv and located at Chili, where he bejran to work at the blacksmith's trade. This has received his attention ever since, excepting one year, in which he acted as agent for a sewing machine company. He located in Denver in August, 1884. Jul\- 30, 1873, he was married to Laura A. Smith, a native of Allen County, this State, born May 8, 1856. She was the daughter of E^aniel and Ruth Ann (Homan) Smith, both natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence have had three children. Thev are, Arba, born April 30, 1875; Edna Zoe, born October 9, 1877, and Loa L., born May 25, 1879: all of whom are living. Mr. Lawrence is a member of the F. and A. M. Lodge and a Democrat in politics. He was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace in the spring of 1886, and is the present incumbent. He is an industrious \'oung man, a good workman and a number one citizen. LEV'I MILLER, an old and highly esteemed pioneer of Miami County, Indiana, was born in Augusta County, Virginia, February 23, 1817. His parents, Abraham and Nancy (Moses) Miller, were both natives of Augusta Countv, Virginia, where they were married and resided until 1833, when they moved to Preble Count}-, Ohio, where the father died. The mother subsequently came with her children to Miami Countv, Indiana, where she departed life. They were the parents of eleven children, viz: Catharine, Levi, Daniel, Isaac, Elisha, John, Abraham, Nancy, Rebecca, Jacob, and an infant son, which died in infancy and not named. Levi, our subject, was married in Preble County, Ohio, in November, 1840, to Ursula, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Eikenberry) Albaugh. In Feb- ruar\-, 1842, Mr. Miller, our subject, moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Sec- tion 4, Jefferson Township, where he has resided since. Mr. Miller 702 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Started in life a poor boy, beginning in this county on i6o acres of woodland, upon which he toiled and labored hard, and succeeded in clearing up his land, and from that, little by little, he added to his lands, and through hard work and well directed industry, his estate magnified to about one thousand acres of tine land. He distributed among his children, and after giving them all line homes, he still owns 1 20 acres of tine and well improved land, and tine propert\- in the city of Peru, Indiana: also in the Mexico saw-mill and planing factory. He is also a stockholder in the Citizens' Bank of Peru, Indiana. He lost his wife by death in October, 1876. He had born to him by her ten children, viz : Abraham, Elizabeth, Nancy, Sarah, Mary A., Rebecca, John H., William I., Eli and Joseph E. Mr. Miller is a member of the German Bapdst Church. ABRAHAM MILLER, son of Levi and Ursula (Albaugh) Miller, was born in Preble County, Ohio, October 11, 1S41. He came to this county with his parents in 1842, where he resided until 1867, when he went to Johnson County, Missouri, where he pur- chased land, and engaged in farming. He was there married. December 25, 1870, to Mary E., daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth J. (Alexander) Wampler. She was born in. Hamilton County. Indi- ana. January' 13, 1851. In December, 1870, immediately after our subject's marriage, he moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon the farm upon which he 90W resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 19, where he owns 255 acres of tine and well improved land. He has had born to him seven children, viz : Florence, born October 7, 1871: Clara, born July 6, 1873, died March 12, 1877; Ursula, born April 26, 18751 Oscar L.. born April 5, 1877: Rebecca, born May 10, 1880: Gilbert I., born January 12, 1883, and Leroy, born Aufifust 31, 1886. Mr. Miller and wife are members of the German Baptist Church. ABRAHAM L. MILLER, son of Isaac and Anna (Ly brook) Miller, was born in Jefferson Township, this county, October 11, 1847. He was married in Richland Township, this county. March 31, 1870, to Rebecca S., daughter of Lewis and Sarah (Shideler) Trent. She was born in Miami County, Indiana, April i, 1852. After Mr. Miller, our subject's, marriage, he settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in Jefferson Township, Section 33, where he has resided since. His wife died May 25, 1872, having borne him one child. Otto E., born July 31, 1871. On February 26, 1874, Mr. Miller married Elizabeth, daughter of Noah and Anna (^Trouts) Fonts. She was born in this county. October 28, 1851. Seven children were born to this union, viz: Elbert G., born Jan- uary 6, 1875: Marion E., born October i, 1876: Anna, born March 15, 1878: Truman E., born March 31, 1880: Howard E., born Sep- tember 9, 1881 ; May, born May 28, 1S83, and Flora, born Feb- ruar\- 7. 188 v Mr. Miller owns 201"^ acres of tine and well BIO(;UAI'HRAI. SKETCHES. 703 improxecl land. lie and wife are members of the German Ba|nisl Church. JOHN II. MILLER, son of Levi and Ursula ( Albaugh) Miller, was born in Jefferson Township, this countv, November 9, 1852. He was married in Jefferson Townshi]-), this countv, March 26, 1874, ^o Rebecca A., daughter of William Stroud. She was born in Cass County, Ind., Januar}- 20, 1855. After Mr. Miller, our subject's, marriage, he settled upon the same farm on which he now resides, where he owns 360 acres of tine and well-impro\'ed land. He lost his wife by death January II, 1879, hiivi'ig borne to him one child. Bertha E., born August 6, 1875. On November 28, 1881, he married Emma, daughter of Isaac and Talittia (Stinglev) Constant. She was born in Cass Count}-, Ind., April 30, 1862. One child has been born to this union, Walter L., born August 28, 1883. Mr. Miller is a wide-awake and enterprising young man, and is highly esteemed bv all who know him. JOHN F. MYERS, Commissioner of Miami County, Indiana, is a wide-awake and enterprising citizen, and is one of the most extensive farmers and stock dealers of Jefferson Township. He is a native of Germany, and was born near Hanover, December 25, 1828. His parents, Nicholas C. and Catharine Myers, were also both natives of Germany, and emigrated from there to the United States in 1833, settling in Miami County, Indiana, where they afterward resided until death. They were the parents of eight children, viz : Catharine E., John F., Henry, Mary, Emma, Elizabeth, Isaac N. and an infant son which died young and not named. John F., our subject, came with his parents to this county in 1833 and has resided here since. He was married in Peru Township, this county, in January, 1852, to Elizabeth, daugh- ter of John and Mary (Cromer) Bowman, and afterwards settled upon his father's farm in Peru Township where he resided until the spring of 186 1, when he settled upon the farm on which he now resides, in section 14, Jefferson Township. He owns at present 650 acres of fine and well improved land, 284 acres of which lie in Miami County and 366 acres in Cass County. He lost his wife b}- death, November 3, 1883, having borne to him eleven children, \iz: Lewis (deceased), John F., James B. (deceased), William H. (deceased), George W., Amanda J., Ira D., Frank S., Milton H., Benjamin (deceased), and one which died in infancy and not named. On January 22, 1885, Mr. Myers married Levina, daughter of Enoch and Mary (Myers) Bowman; having born to him by this lady, one child, Edna. Mr. Myers was elected to the office of Commissioner of this county in 1882. ISAAC NEWMAN, an old and highl}- esteemed pioneer of Miami Count\-, Indiana, is a native of Montgomer\' County, Ohio, 704 HISTORY OF MIAMI COLNTV. and was born May 3, 181 5. His parents, Jonathan and Mahala (Cox) Newman, were both natives of Tennessee, and from thence emigrated to Montgomery County, Ohio, in an early day, where they were married, and afterward resided until death. They were the parents of nine children, viz: Isaac, Cyntha, Mary A., Samuel K., Jane C, Elijah, Matthew C, Jonathan E., and one which died in infancy and not named. Isaac, our subject, was married in Miami Count}-, Ohio, March 6, 1834, *o Susannah, daughter of Uaniel and Mollie Hoover, and in September, 1835, h*^ moved to Miami County, Indiana, settling upon the same farm on which he now resides, in Section 23, Jefferson Township, where he has remained since. He lost his wife by death, July 20, 1851, having had born to him by her seven children, viz: Matilda, Benjamin F., Mary J., Sarah, James P., Daniel B., and one which died in infancv and not named. On Sep- tember 8, 1853, Mr. Newman married Mary Conner (wife of John Conner, deceased). Mr. Newman owns 160 acres of fine and well improved land. He is an enterprising and highly esteemed man. ELIAS OLINGER (dealer in general merchandise, Me.vico, Ind. ) is a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, and was born March 20, 1835. His parents, George and Barbara (Shoe- maker) Olinger, settled in Miami County, Ind., in about the year 1846. They were the parents of four children, viz: Anna, Levi, Sarah and Elias, our subject, the eldest member of the family. He came with his parents to Miami County in 1846, where he has resided ever since. He engaged in harness mak- ing for a number of years, after which he engaged in shoe- making and also handling ready made goods. He began in life with a very small capital, and b}- well-directed industry he added to his stock, little bv little, until he has now a fine stock of general merchandise of nearly $5,000. He married Eveline Skinner, by whom he has had born to him two children, viz: William L. and Laura D. This ladv died, and he subsequently married Pauline Reed, by whom he is father of three children, viz: Grace D., Barbara E. and Jesse (deceased). WILLIAM O. PIPER, one of the prominent business men of Denver, was born in Seneca County, Ohio, October 26, 1837. He was the fifth son born to John and Elmira (Bassett) Piper, the fcirmL'r a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter a native of Vermont, of Scotch and Irish descent respectively. When W ill- iam was seven years old, he accompanied his parents to this county, and located with them in the woods of Union Township. That was in 1844. There our subject spent his boyhood and youth, working upon his father's farm. At the age of twenty he left home and went to Ogle County, Illinois, where he worked upon a farm by the month, one year. He then returned to this county, and during the three years which followed, he taught BIOGRAIMIICAK SKETCHES. 705 school in the winter time and worked upon the farm, and at threshintj during the sunuiier. October 8, iS6i, he enlisted into the service of his country in Company G, 51st Indiana regiment, from which he was honorably discharged December 16, 1864, hav- ing, in the meantime, been promoted to the rank of sergeant. He participated in the battles of Stone River, those attending the raid of Col. Streight, and Franklin. He was taken prisoner near Rome, Ga., and for a short time was imprisoned at Belle Isle. Virginia, but was soon liberated by exchange. At the close of the war he went to Newton County, this State, and engaged in farming. Four years later he returned to this county, but a year later he went to Topeka, Kansas, where, in the spring of 1870. he engaged in the real estate business. In the following October he again returned to this county and located at Denver, where he has ever since been engaged in the mercan- tile business. January i, 1861, he was married to Ann E. Charles, a native of \Va}ne County, this State, and daughter of Reuben K. and Margaret (^Cunningham) Charles, nati\-es of Preble County, Ohio, and Virginia, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Piper have had seven children, six sons and one daughter, all of whom are liv- ing. Their names are Charles E., William J., Walter E., Harry M., George W., Omer S. and Clara E. Mr. Piper is a member of the F. and A. M., I. O. O. F., A. O. U. W., and G. A. R. Lodges, and a Republican in politics. He is a pleasant and intel- ligent gentleman, a successful business man and a number one citizen. During the last four years his attention has been divided between the mercantile business and farming. He owns 150 acres of good land adjoining the town of Denver, nearly all of which is in a high state of cultivation. Politically, Mr. Piper was a Democrat, and entered the war as such, but on returning he declared himself in favor of the Republican party, whose principles he has ever since ardently supported. JOHN Q. A. ROBBINS, M. "D., of Denver, is a native of Wayne County, tliis State, and was born November 6, 1826. He was the second son born to Moses and Elizabeth ( Long ) Robbins, both natives of North Carolina, the former of Welsh and Irish and the latter of German descent. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm in his native county. At the age of sixteen, having decided to tit himself for the medical profes- sion, he began the study of medicine with Dr. James Ruby, of Abington, Wayne County, with whom he diligentl}- pursued his studies for about five years. In June, 1849, he came to this county and entered upon his professional duties at Chili. Here he remained until April, 1856, when, owing to the impaired condition of his health and the death of his wife, he returned to his father's in Wayne County for recuperation. He remained there about one 7o6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. 3ear and a lialf, during which time lie traveled through the West for his health. On the ist day of January, 1858, he located at Abington, where he again entered upon the practice of his pro- fession. In the latter part of November, 1881, he again came to this county, and this time located at Denver, where he has ever since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession. In the fall of 1 868, while a citizen of Abington, he entered the Cincin- nati College of Medicine and Surgerv, where he attended one course of lectures, graduating in Februar}^ 1869. On the 17th day of Ma\', 1849, he was married to Marv C. Jarett. also a native of Wayne County, this State, born of English descent, in September, 1826. She was the daughter of William and Nancv (Wilson). Jar- ett, both natives of Virginia. To this union two children were born: Moses E. and John H. C, the former of whom died at the age of eleven years, and the latter died before he was two vears old. Dr. Robbins lost his lirst wife October 13, 1853, and on the 6th day of April, 1854, ^^ ^^'"^^ married to Eliza Ann W. Myers, who died Feb- ruary 21, 1856. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, and was the daughter of James Mvers. His second marriage resulted in the birth of one child — James Edgar, who died at the age of se\en 3ears. October 27, 1858, our subject was married to Mrs. Martha E. Heacock, a native of Wayne County, this State, and daughter of William and Nancv (Long) Larkin, natives of Tennessee and \'ir- ginia, respeclivelv. To this last union four children have been born. Their names are Harriet A., born August 24, 1859: Carrie J., born August I, 1862; Francis C, born June 11. 1867, and Altie H., born June 16, 1876, all of whom are living. Dr. Robbins and wife are faithful members of the M. E. Church. He is a member of the F. & A. M. and I. O. O. F. Lodges, and a Republican in politics. He is a pleasant, intelligent gentleman, a hrst-class citizen, and as a phy- sician is very successful. REV. "ERWIN C. ROBBINS, of Denver, is a native of Richland Township, this count\', and was born Julv 16. 1853. He was the eldest son born to Emma D. and Alice (Clendening) Robbins, who were among the first settlers of Richland Town- ship. Our subject spent his earlv life working upon his father's farm and attending the public school. In September, 1874, he entered the State Normal School, at Terre Haute, where he spent nearly one \ear fitting himself for the avocation of a teacher. He then began teaching and taught, in all, six terms, spending his summers upon a farm. He continued to farm until the spring of 1884. at which time he yielded to an inclination to enter the ministrj-. He immediatelv began to tit himself for this work, and in February, 1885, he was licensed to preach in the Baptist Church. His pastoral work was begun in the Palestine Church, of Fulton County, where he preached for one year. Since October, 1886, he has BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. ']0^ occupied the pulpit in the Baptist Churcli of Den\er, he lia\ iii^ located in that place in September of 1885. September, 17, 1875, he was married to Sarah A. Charles, w ho died February 29, 1884, leaving to the care of our subject, four children: Charles O., born September 27, 1877; Alta M., born August 20, 1879; Ida E., born June 16, 1881; and Kercheval, born November 23, 1883: all of whom are living. On the 19th da\' of August, 1885, Rev. Robbins was married to Mrs. Emma E. Howes, a native of Kane Count}-, IlHnois, born August 19, 1854. ^^^^ ^^'^^ the daugh- ter of Nelson E. and Mary A. (Peck) Gowdy, both natives of Alleghany County, New York. Politically, our subject is a Repub- lican. He and his little family are pleasantly located in Denver, where they expect to remain. He is a good citizen and an earnest and successful worker in the cause of Christianity. PHILIP M. SMITH, operator at Denver, was born in John- son County, this State, Mav 13, 1850. He was the second son born to Martin and Christiana (Orm| Smith, the former of whom is at present a resident of Tipton Count}', this State. When Philip was quite young his parents removed to Tipton County, where his boyhood and jouth were spent work- ing upon his father's farm, one mile and a half west of Jackson Station. At about the age of twenty he had the misfortune to lose his left arm — the result of an accident which befell him as he was in the act of coupling cars. He then resolved to fit him- self for the teacher's profession. Preparatorv to this he attended the Hiri.\MI COUNTY. and Sarepta (Brown) Snook, both natives of Ohio. When he was one year old he accompanied his mother to Whitlev County, this State, and about 1858 they came to Miami County, his mother, in the meantime, having been married to Leonard M. Briggs. Their tirst location was at Peru, but a short time afterward they removed to Mexico. Here they remained until about 1862, when they returned to Whitley County, from whence our subject, early in the j'ear 1864, went to Peru and began to learn the printer's trade. His first work was in the office of the Peru Rcfublican, edited at the time bv W. S. Benham. He remained until in January, 1865, when, at the early age of fifteen, he entered the service of the Union Army in Company D, 151st Indiana Volunteers, from which he received an honorable discharge in the September following. At the close of the war he went to North Manchester, Wabash County, whence his mother, with her husband, had in the mean- time gone, and where the former had died March 5, 1865. Having a desire to finish his trade, he worked in different places until the latter part of 1867, when he found himself in New York City. In that place he did journeyman work upon various papers for about one year. After being thus employed in several other cities until about 1809, he, having concluded to enter the medical profession, then went to Philadelphia where he attended two courses of lectures in the Eclectic Medical College. His professional duties were betrun in Fulton County. He afterwards successfully practiced his profession in Whitle}', Kosciusko and Wabash Counties. In November, 1883, he again came to this county and located at Denver, w^here his attention has been divided between the practice of medicine and the editing and management of the Denver S/e/i, a newsy little paper, which he launched into existence nearly three years ago. November 16, 1873, he was married to Mary B. Corbet, by whom he has had four children: Marion C, Lou Effie E., Oscar R., and Ida E., all of whom are living. Mrs. Snook is a member of the M. E. Church. Tne Doctor is a member of the F. & A. M. Lodge, and independent in politics. OLIVER T. SNYDER, an enterprising young business man, of Denver, is a native of Union County, this State, and was born May 12, 1850. He was the only son born to John M. and Mary A. (Thomas) Snyder, natives of Union and Fayette Coun- ties, this State, respectively. When our subject was about three years old he accompanied his parents to Wayne County, Indiana. There he spent hi.s boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm. He received in the public schools a good common school education, after which he continued his studies in the Centerville High School about one year. At the age of nineteen he accepted a position of traveling salesman, and was thus employed two vears. He then engaged in the lumber business, which received BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. ^0g his attention six years. Before beginning the study of I'har- niacy, he was engaged in selling books about two years, hi 1879, he began the study of Pharmacy, with a yiew to tit himself for the drug business. This was mastered in due time, and early in 1883 he came to this county and opened up a drug store at Denyer. lie was united in marriage to Sarah E. Robbins, a natiye of this county, born September 22, 1S58. She was the daughter of Hiram ^I. and Permelia (Gentry) Robbins, the for- mer a native of Wayne County this State, born September 17, 1826, and the latter also a native of Wayne County, born May 18. 1835. Mr. Snyder is the father of two children : Carrie and Ethel. Mrs. Snyder is a member of the M. E. Church. Politically, Mr. Sny- der is a Democrat, He is a pushing, energetic J'oung man, and a number one citizen. He has a neat little drug store, well stocked and is doing a good business. MICHAEL N. TAYLOR, an old and highly respected citi- zen of Denver, was born in Wayne County, Ohio, February 7, 1814. He was the second son born to Samuel and Mary (Hancock) Tay- lor, who, when Michael was three years old, came to Indiana and located in Wayne Count\-, being among the early settlers of that locality. Our subject spent his boyhood and youth working upon his father's farm. When he had reached his majority he began farming for himself. That was in Wayne County, this State. In about the year 1836, he removed to Wabash County^ and located upon a farm four miles west of North Manchester. He had entered one hundred and sixty acres of wood land, upon which he built a cabin, and immediatel}' set about clearing up a farm. To do this without assistance, necessarily devolved upon him a great deal of hard work. He chopped, grubbed, burned brush, rolled logs, plowed, and, in fact, did all kinds of hard work which the develop- ment of a new country necessitates. The woods abounded with deer, wolves, wild turkeys, bear and Indians, and occasionally Michael found time to participate in the hunt. Upon one occasion he discovered a large bruin attacking some hogs, and a well directed shot from his rifle has entitled him to a reputation which but few enjoyed — that of killing a bear. He remained upon that farm, engaged in agricultural pursuits, until 1842, when he returned to Wayne County. A year later he came to this county and located in Richland Township, where he resided until October, 1883. At that time he removed to Denver, where he has erected a beautiful little residence, which, at present is occupied by himself and grand- tlaughter. Miss Alma D. Norris. June 11, 1835, he was mar- ried to Nancy Brown, who died October, 13, 1846. She was born in Wayne County, this State, December 16, 1813, and was the daughter of William Brown, who located in Wayne County in an early day. To that marriage five children were 7IO HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTV. born: Samuel A., born July 4, 1836, died November 5, 1838; Sarah J., born November 15, 1837, .deceased: Mary C., born April 30th, 1839; Lucy A., born February 6, 1843; Philtna, born October 3, 1846, died October 23, 1846. May 10, 1847, Mr. Taylor was married to Araminta Woolpert, who died April 9, 1886. She was born in Wayne County, this State, November 15, 1827, and was the daughter of Peter and Phoebe (^'ea^) Wool- pert, natives of New Jersey. Mr. Tavlor has been a member of the M. E. Church over forty 3'ears. Politically he is a Republican. He began life poor, but through industry, perseverance and economv, he is permitted to spend his declining vears in comfortable circum- stances. He is an honest, upright man, and one of the county's most highly respected citizens. JOHN W. TURNIPSEED (dealer in agriculture and farm- ing implements, and also stock dealer, Mexico, Indiana,) is a native of Stark Countv, Indiana, and was born April 13, 1851. His parents, George and Sarah (Veal) Turnipseed, were natives of Ohio and New Jersey, respectively. He was married in Cass Count}-, Indi- ana, October 14, 1872, to Josephine, daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Graft) Dillman. She was born in Cass County, Indiana, November 19, 185 1. In the spring of 1873, Mr. Turnipseed, our subject, settled upon land in Jefferson Township, this county, where he engaged in farming until the fall of 1877, when he moved to Mexico, Indiana, where he engaged in the butchering business for about one vear, after which he engaged in buving stock for Mr. S. E. Skinner, and about one year later he entered a partnership w ith Mr. Skinner in stock business, which they continued together until Skinner's death, in November, 1884. He then devoted his atten- tion to stock business by himself, which he has carried on quite ex- tensivelv since. In the fall of 1886 he took Mr. A. Crook in as a partner, and the\ are now doing business together. Mr. Turnip- seed is an intelligent and enterprising man, and is highly esteemed bv all who know him. He owns 109 acres of land in Sec- tions 19 and 30, Jefferson Township: also fine propertv at Mexico. Indiana. Mr. Turnipseed and wife are members of the Baptist Church. THOMAS WHITCRAFT (foreman of the Mexico Manu- facturing Companv). was born in Hocking Countv, Ohio. April 26, 1S47. His parents — ^John H. and Amy R. (Brown) Whitcraft — were also both natives of Hocking Countv, Ohio, and were born as follows: The father in the year 182 1 and the mother in the year 1824. They were married in Hocking County, Ohio, where the father died in the year 1856. The mother sub- sequentlv married Lewis Smvers, and moved with him to Wabash County, Indiana, in 1857, where she still resides. She is the mother of fourteen children, viz: Thomas, Margaret, Jacob L., BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCIIKS. 7II William C, Luther B., Elizabeth A., (by Mr. Whitcraft), and Mary, Elmira, George W., John W., Luther B., Amy R., Ida and an infant daughter which died young and not named (by- Mr. Smyers). Thomas, our subject, moved with his parents to Wabash County, Indiana, in 1857, and in 1871 began the cabinet trade at South Wabash, Ind., which he completed and has engaged in the same principally since. He was married at South Wabash, Indi- ana, November 9, 1875, to Anna M., daughter of Mark and Esther (Jenkins) Jones. She was born in Wabash Countv, Indiana, December 22, 1854. In 1877, Mr. Whitcraft, our sub- ject, moved to Mexico, Indiana, and began work as an emplove in the Mexico Manufacturing Factory, which he has since con- tinued. In Ma}', 1884, he was promoted to foreman of the fac- tory, which capacity he now fills. He has had born to him four children, viz: Vesta J., born October 21, 1876; Vermon H., born July, 12, 1878; Lenora, born March 10, 1880, and Edwinna, born Februai-}' 10, 1882. Mr. Whitcraft is a member of the Masonic Order, and he and wife are members of the M. E. Church. He is a wide-awake and enterprising young man, and is much esteemed by all who know him. JOHN N. WOOLLEY, one of the pioneers of this county and one among the earl}- settlers of Richland Township, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, September 18, 1820. He was the second son born to Amos and Anna (Ellis) Woolley, both natives of New Jersey, of Welsh descent. When John was about six \ears old he accompanied his parents to Philadelphia, Penn., but six years later, or in 1832, they returned to Ohio, and this time located in Warren County. His father located in Palmyra (now Mason), where he worked at his trade, which was that of wagon- maker. Very early in life, John learned the trade also, with his father, at which he has worked chiefly all his life. On the nth day of April, 1844, he was married to Alice E,. Warwick, a native of Warren County, Ohio, born of English and Scotch descent, April 28, 1826. She was the daughter of Jacob and Leah (Parker) Warwick, both natives of Pennsylvania. In 1847, Mr. and Mrs. Woolley came to this count}- and located in the woods of Richland Township. There our subject worked at his trade until about 1873, when he located in Denver. Mr. and Mrs. Woolley have had ten children. They are Emily E., born March 18, 1845, died October I, 1S60; Mary J., born December 12, 1846; Laura A., born Octo- ber 29, 1847; Joseph C, born October 2, 1850, died January 15, 1851; Benjamin K., born July 31, 1855, died August 4, 1858; Alice E., born October 31, 1857: George L., born November 15, 1859; Anna E., born March 2, 1862; Alfred W., born December 8, 1864; and Amos E., born September 17, 1867. Mrs. Woolley is a mem- ber of the Christian Church. In politics, Mr. Woolley is a Repub- 27 712 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. lican. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace four years. He is an honest, upright man, and one of the countj-'s most highlj- respected citizens. CHAPTER XVI. Perry Township — Early Settlement — Land Entries — Township Organization — Improvements and Industries — E.\RLY Births, Deaths and Marriages — Wolves — L.\w- LEssNEss — Religions — Gilead — Stockdale- — Biographical Sketches. PERRY TOWNSHIP, the largest division of Miami County, forms the northeast corner of the county, and embraces a geo- graphical area of forty -two square miles, all of w hich is included in Township 29, North, Ranges 4 and 5, East, of the Congressional sur- vey. It joins Fulton County on the North, Wabash County on the East, Richland Township on the South, Union and Allen Townships on the West, and was named in honor of Commodore 01i\er II. Perry, the gallant hero of Lake Erie. The surface of the township is pleas- antly diversified, the general face of the country being gentlj' rolling, with occasional hills along the streams. Like other parts of the countj^ it was formerly well timbered, but large areas of woodlands have long since been cleared away and put in cultivation. Much valua- ble timber was wantonly destroyed, which, if now standing, would more than equal in value the land upon which it grew. The soil is generally a sandy loam, resting upon a clay subsoil — very durable and well adapted to wheat, corn, oats and the other cereals and fruits indigenous to this latitude. In fact, the abundance and variety of its productions are such that it can challenge competition with any part of the county. The natural advantages have been so well improved by skill and industry, that Perry Township may be, in some respects, regarded as a model for imitation by farmers in other parts of the county. Settlement. — James Malcolm was the first white man to lead the march of civilization into what is now Perry Township. He came to the country as early as 1833, and obtaining a small log cabin from an Indian village soon after fixed his home on what is now known as the Jacob Wiles farm, not far from the southeast corner of the township. " He doubtless entered the deep forest, as did the majority of young pioneers, with e.xult- PERRY TOWNSHIP. 713 ant hopes, looking forward to the time when the dense woods should be cleared away, and when line farms should appear in their stead." He lived to see all these changes take place, but, contrary to his expectations, instead of accumulating a compe- tency and living to enjoy the same, was compelled to pass his declining 3-ears in the county poor house, where he died a com- mon pauper. The next man who sought a home in the new country was William Akright, who located in the southeast corner of the township, where Ananias Harmon now lives, some time in the year 1S34. Mr. Akright was in the true sense of the word a pioneer, and, like his predecessor, was doomed to bitter disappointment, so far as the accumulation of property was concerned, dving in indigent circumstances in the year 1884. His son, John Akright, came the same time, figured as an early school teacher of the township, and later sold goods for a number of years in the village of Gilead. The same year Mat- thias Mo\er settled near the eastern boundary of the township, where he cleared a good farm and set out one of the first nurseries in the county. " Benjamin Musulman and Jacob Gill were early settlers in the same locality, but did not purchase land at that time, both of them leasing a part of Mr. Moyer's place." During the year 1835, -^ number of substantial men were added to the population of the little colony, conspicuous among whom was John Rhodes, who entered a large tract of land near the central part of the township, upon which he lived the remainder of his life. Unlike the majority of settlers in a new countr\% Mr. Rhodes was a man of considerable wealth, by means of which he was enabled to secure a valuable property and live in comparative ease. His son, Adam E. Rhodes, accompanied him to this country and settled upon the present site of Gilead, of which village he was proprietor. He was a man of great energy and superior business qualifications, and ranked as one of the leading citizens of the county for a number of years. Another prominent settler of 1835 was Ira Mitchell, who located a short distance east of Gilead, on what is now the John Baker farm. John Close came the latter part of the same year and made an improvement near the eastern boundary of the township, and James Waddle is reputed to have been living on the Samuel Seidner place not far from Niconza, prior to 1836. Among others of 1835, were Peter Onstatt, two and a half miles southeast of Gil- ead; James Fiers, on the Tombaugh farm in the southeast corner of the township; Rev. Wesle}' Borders, a Methodist preacher and earlj- Justice of the Peace, in the same locality; Joseph Wildman and his son Joseph, near the Keesling farm, southwest of Gilead; Alfred Doud, a half mile west of the village: Charles Cleland, in the vicin- ity of l)o\vd"s place; James Cleland, brother of Charles, and an early 714 HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. trader, about four miles southwest of Gilead; James Biggs, north- west of Gilead; Benjamin and David Marquis, on the Sickafoos farm; Willis Hill, on the Graft farm, in the southwest part of the township; Jacob Richard, son-in-law of Alfred, near the central part of the township; John Walters, on the Joseph Grogg farm: John Anderson and Matthias Bird, near Gilead; and James Bunton. who purchased land owned at the present time by Jacob Kessling and Fred Kircher, where he died within a short time after cominsr to the county. Prominent among the arrivals of 1836 was Peter KciSsling, who, the previous fall, purchased the land where Willis Hill had settled, to which he moved his family the following spring. He was a prominent citizen of the township until his death in i860, and can be appropriately classed with the earh' representati\e men of Miami County. His sons, Jacob, Titus, Peter, James and Jackson, came the same \"ear, and Samuel a little later. They were all sub- stantial citizens and left the impress of their characters upon the communities in which they resided. Jacob Kessling, the onl\- one of the brothers here at the present time, is one of the oldest and wealthiest citizens of the township. Samuel Shoemaker settled in the southeast corner of the township in 1836, and before the close of that year the popula- tion had been increased by the following comers: Samuel Essick, on the Timothy Baker farm; Peter Sager, a short distance south of Gilead; Jacob Huffman, in the northeastern part of the town- ship; William J. Keever, who purchased part of the Marquis land, and John Clifton, about three miles north of Gilead. Dur- ing the interval from 1837 to 1839, ^^^^ following settlers, with others, sought homes within the present limits of the township: John Grogg, where he is still living; George and Joseph Grogg, the former in the northern part of the township and the latter where his sons are still living: Hiram Butler, an earl)- Trustee and County Commissioner, near the southern border; John D. Haken. father-in-law of Jacob Kessling, in Section 16, eastern part of the township; John Tombaugh, on land now owned by Noah Miller; John Bowers, where Michael Thomas lives; John Meyers, eastern part of the township, Section sixteen; Larkin Norman, southeast corner: John Cliambers and sons. Pleasant and Elijah, in same locality; William Hester, first Justice of the Peace, near the center part of the township; Zera Sutherland, near Gilead: Henry and John Daggy, on land owned at this time by Andrew Yarian; Jesse Butler, on the road leading from Gilead to Peru; Robert Meek and John Tracy, in southern part of the township; Peter Shrig, a transient settler who lived in various places; Alexander Jameson, where Daniel Cams now lives: Allen Jameson, on same place; John Olds, Prior Wright, I'KKK^• ■I'owNsiiip, 715 and Joshua Murpliy, in southern part; Amos Ellison, central part: Caleb B. Ash, one of the first school teachers, ten miles north of Gilead, and James Chapen, northeastern part. Among others who came in from time to time, were the following: Charles S. Low, Thomas Carpenter, Daniel Keim, George Keim, J3en- jamin Keim, Calvin Tracy, Hezekiah Tracv, John Gilliland, Joseph Oldfather, Samuel Thompson, Vinal Thurston, Samuel Rank, Reeder Drake, William A. Sower, Barnes Dowd. James S. Love, Hiram Daines, Peter Mowry, Adam Daines, Jacob Barnhcisel, John Gaerte, Jacob Myers, John Myers, Dennis Garber, Jacob Miller, Joseph Miller, John Fiers, Thomas Goudy, Henrj- Bidd- ing, James Goudy, John Goudy, Henry Koffle and John Slagle, the majority of whom became residents as earlv as 1840. The following are the names of a few who came in after that date: Hugh Miller, James Trac}', Michael Smith, Philip Smith, William Garber, George King, Jacob Seidner, Samuel Seidner, Jacob Harmon, Robert Love, John Cregg, David Love. T. L. Hurl- burt, Isaac Hester, Cyrus Kreig. William Smith and Fleming Smith. Early Laud Entries. — Quite a number of the settlers enum- erated purchased their lands directly from the (joverment, and obtained patents for the same within a short time after coming to the countv. The following is a list of those who entered land dur- ing the vear 1S35, several of whom became residents of the town- ship: Nathan Seavay and Andrew Onstatt, Section 13, Township 29, North, Range 4, East: Jos. Cox, John McCrea and Chas. S. Lowe. Section 22; Nathan Seavay, Section 24; John R. Wright, Section 27: Jerome Hoover, Section 3, Township 29, Range 5, East; Samuel Wallace, Section 4: Noah Webb, John Wiseman and Adam Weaver, Section 6; Ira Mitchell and W. H. Dubois, Sec- tion 7: James Adams and A. E. Rhodes, Section 9; William Akright, Philip M. Tabb. James Waddell and John Mowry, Sec- tion 15: Orion Taylor and Ann Huff, Section 17: John Rhodes, Section 18; Jonathan Science, Section 19; John Close, Jacob Flora and John Bailey, Section 21; Nathan Moyer, William M. Duff and Peter Onstatt, Section 22; Daniel Hawkins, Section 27; William Butler, Elihu Plummer and Thomas Plummer, Section 28; David Hiatt, Section 29: Hiram Butler and William Ikitler, vSection 30: James Malcolm, William Clark and Samuel Essick, Section 33. The following is a full list of those who purchased lands from the government in 1836, in Township 29, North, Range 4, East: Noah Noble, James Biggs and Chas. Cleland, Section i ; Daniel Gilchrist and Chas. Smith, Section 2: Samuel A. Manon and Sam- uel Hoover, Section 3; William Bake and Miles Craig, Section 10; E. Dowd, Section 11; W. H. Duboi.s, A. Dowd and W. H. Stub- blelield. Section 12; Wm. Robbins, Section 13; W. Hill and A. 7l6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. Weaver, Section 14; Jos. Wildman, Sullivan Wait and Enos Wildman, Section 15; Luther Wait, Section 16; Cyrus Taylor, Wm. Bain, and P. Smith, Section 23; L. W. Sale and Jos. Tarkington, Section 24; David W. Murray, Section 25: Township 29, Range 5, East; Isaac Smallev, Section 3: James Adams, Section 4; John Webb, Townsend Hoover, T. Summerton, A. E. Rhodes and T. Evans, Section 5; Daniel Stimel, D. Cambell and Chas. W. Catheast, Sec- tion 8; Henry Worst and John Mowry, Section 9: Jacob Flora, R. M. Buck, Moses Bunton, L. Newton and S. Newton, Section 20; John Webb and John Bailey, Section 22; D. Clark, Section 27; Wm. Hester, H. Daggy, James Fiers, B. F. Town and D. B. Forman, Section 29; John Daggy and David Marquis, Section 30; B. Hill, Jos. Beckner, W. Brown and David Mowlsby, Section 30. Tinvnship Organization. — Perrv Township was set apart as a separate jurisdiction on the 27th of February, 1837. "The same vear an election to choose the necessary officers was held at the house of Peter Onstatt, near the present site of Gilead, Aleaxander Jameson acting as inspector. William Hester, Hiram Butler and George Tombaugh were probably the first trustees of the township. The first Justice of the Peace was Wesley Borders, after whom served in an early day George Tombaugh and Jacob Richards." Earlx Iniprovenients, /ndiis/rics. Etc. — The development of Perry Township during the early years of its history was not very rapid on account of the dense forests to be cleared away, the prex'alence of malarial diseases and the absence of mills, market places and the facilities for communication. Corn and potatoes were the first crops raised, and with game afforded the early settlers their chief means of subsistence. The first articles of commercial importance were ginseng, " yellow root,'" wild honey, maple sugar, \enison. deer and coon-skins, which were exchanged at the nearest market places for groceries, shoe leather, and what few dry goods the pioneers needed. The majority of the early families manufactured their own wearing apparel, and the spinning-wheel was a familiar object in almost e\ery house- hold. The houses* in which the pioneers' made their first homes were of a similar kind to all earl}- habitations in a new country. The most of them were rude structures of unhewn logs, covered with clapboards rived from some convenient oak, and containing but a single apartment. They were daubed with clay mortar, and afforded a tolerable shelter from the rain and cold. At one end of the room a ver}' large fire-place was erected, from which arose a stick and mortar chimney. The unthinned wilderness supplied an abundance of fuel, and in that day with such splen- did facilities for destruction, quantity was an object of little impor- tance. The family food was cooked by the open fire, such arti- PERRY TOWNSHIP. 717 cles of luxury as cook stove being at that time unknown. Tiie furniture for the interior was in keepin BIOGRAPHKAI, SKETCHES. 737 Wait, who were natives of New York and Kentucky, respectively. Thev emigrated to Indiana and Miami Countv in 1838, settling on ilie farm where our subject was born, and on which he was reared to manhood, receiving a common school education sufficient to enable him to teach. At the age of twenty-two, July 2, 1861, he enlisted in C'onipan\' A, 26th Indiana Regiment of Volunteer Infantry, where he served with distinction until Jaiuiarv 15, 1866, durin which time he participated in a number of hard-fought engage ments. May 2, 1864, he was united in marriage to Marietta H. Wright, bv whom he became the father of the following named children: William S., Margaret, Joetta, Anna A., Frank H., Henr}- E., Earle, Emma. Laura E., Carrie M., and Marietta. Mr. Wait made farming his occupation until 1870. He then, for several years, divided his attention between that pursuit and selling sewing machines. From 1876 undl 1885, he was engaged in saw-milling; at the latter date he embarked in the mercantile business, and is now the proprietor of a hne store in the village of Gilead enjo}ing a thriving and remunerative business. No\ember 28, 1881, he met with the misfortune of losing his beloved wife. He is a member of the Masonic fraternit\-. Although not belonging to any church, he is a believer in the hopes of a Christian religion, and may always be found a faithful worker in the Sunda}--school. In politics he is an ardent Republican, and was twice the successful candidate of his part^• for the position of Township Trustee, filling that office in a verv creditable manner, and to the entire satisfaction of his con- stituency. JAMES WILDMAN, an old and respected citizen of Perry Township, was born in Jefferson County, Indiana, April 15, 181 7, the eldest in a family of eight children born to Joseph and Mary (Underwood) Wildman, who were natives of Virginia and Kentucky, respectively. They emigrated to Miami County in 1838. Two vears later they pre-empted a tract of land in Perry Township, where they lived until their deaths. The im- mediate subject of our sketch has always lived at the old home- stead. The opportunities for acquiring an education ^vere in those days very limited, and his help, which was needed in clearing away the forest and putting the land in a state to cul- tivate, kept "him from taking advantage of the facilities that were afforded, hence he obtained no education. October 25, 1866. his marriage with Anna E. Carlisle was solemnized. To their union these three chilldren have been born: Carey, born .\ugust 6, 1868; Leroy, born October 20, 1870, and Alta. born November 23, 1872. Mr. Wildman is a successful farmer, and the owner of 120 acres of land in good condition. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. Politically he is a Republican. 73^ HISTOKV OK MIAMI COUNTY. WILLIAM E. WOOLLEY (farmer), of Perry Township, was born in Alleghany County, Pennsylvania, October 20, 1816, the son and third of twelve children boi-n to Amos and Anna (Ellis) Woollev, both natives of New Jersev, of German descent. They emigrated to and settled in Indiana about 1846. The subject of our sketch learned the wagonmaking trade with his father, and followed that business until he came to Indiana. In early life he received a common education, one in keeping with the facilities afforded in those davs. June 29, 1839, he was united in marriage with Jane Cassel. To their union three children were born, Mary A., wife of Levi Carn, being the onlv sur- viving one. John N., a son bv this marriage, lost his life in the service of his country at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain, June 27, 1864. Mrs. Woolley died January 29, 1845. January 28, 1847, Sarah T. Lewis became his wife. By her he is the father of ten children, these eight now living: Jennie C, wife of Bra- zil Fagan: Alexander H., who married Allie Paxton: Gilbert L., Alice, consort of Burch Doud; Cora B.. now Mrs. Charles Cool: Clara M., wife of Milo VanLeer: William E. and Elizabeth. Januarv 21, 1879, Mr. Woollev again suffered the bereavement of losing his wife. His vocation, since coming to Indiana, has been farming, in which he has been uniformh' successful. He is tile proprietor of 122 acres of improved land in Miami County and 64 acres located in Henry Count\-, Ohio. In politics he is a Republican, and has been honored with an election to the offices of Township Assessor and Trustee. CHAPTER XVII. Pipii Creek Township — Physic.\l Descrh'tion — Era of Set- tlement — Churches — Leonda — Bunker Hill — Bio- graphical Sketches. PIPE CREEK TOWNSHIP joins Cass County on the west, is bounded on the north by the Wabash River, on the east by Washington Township, and on the south by Deer Creek Town- ship. It is about seven miles from the extreme northern to the southern limits, four miles from east to west, and includes an area of about twentv-seven square miles, all of which lie in Congressional Township 26, North, Ranges 3 and 4, East. The country enjoys excellent water privileges. Tlie largest stream — Pipe Creek, after IMTE CREEK 'I-OWNSHU'. 739 whicli the township was named — enters from the east about one and a quarter miles north of tiie southern boundary, and flows a norlli- westerlv course, leaving from Section ii, two miles south of the Wabash River. This water course, with its atlluents, affords ample drainage for the greater part of the township. Little Pipe Creek, a stream of considerable importance, flows through the northeast corner of the township, while se\eral small creeks, rising near the central part, flow a northerly direction into the Wabash. The sur- face of the township is equally diversilied with hills and valleys, bot- tom lands in certain localities along the streams, and considerable stretches of level and rolling country. The lands of Pipe Creek Township are proverbial for fine crops, the soil a deep, black loam, or some parts loam mixed with cla}', and, in others, sand mixed — all King favorable for natural drainage, and consequently dr}- and easily tilled. Few sections of the county are so well adapted to fruit cul- ture, apples, peaches, pears, grapes, etc., being generallv culti\ated in profusion, and when not cut off by the late frost, are a source of considerable profit to the grower. The countrv at one time was covered with an abundance of flne timber, but the demands of trade ha\e thinned out the more valuable varieties. Large areas of wood- land still remain, however, which, if judiciously used, will be suffi- cient for all practical purposes for many years to come. For trans- portation of countrv products the 1. P. & C. Railroad passes through the township from north to south, while the Bradford divi- sion of the Pan Handle crosses the southern part from east to west. //istorical. — The earliest settlements in Pipe Creek Township w ere made about the year 1838 or '39, but it is a matter of consid- erable doubt as to who was the actual pioneer. According to the testimony of Mr. Brandt, who has been a resident of the township almost continuously since i84J,the honoris justly due one John Wilson, who made a settlement on Pipe Creek w iiere Joseph Shep- lar now lives, some time in one of the above years. But little is known of Mr. Wilson, save that he was a hunter rather than a tiller of the soil, and that he sold his claim in a abort time to a Mr. Finney, and emigrated to one of the W^e.stern States. John Betzner was per- liaps the next actual settler. He located in tlie northeastern part of the township, on the Wallick place, but subsequently sold out and moved to Washington Township, where he is still living. Joel Julian came in 1839 '^'' 4° '^"*^ located near Pipe Creek, in the western part of the township, chosing for his lioine the land now owned and occupied bv Mortimer Smith. Mr. Julian died in a very early day, and liis widow afterwards married Alexander Abrahams, who was also a pioneer of the township. Michael Stroop, Sr., settled in tiie nortliwest part of the township, early in the forties, and made his first improvement on the farm now in possession of his son. He died in a short time after coming to the country. His son, Michael Stroop, 740 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUXTV. Jr., was an early settler also. In the year 1841 Isaac Vandorn set- tled near Pipe Creek, in the central part of the township, and was an honored resident until his death, which occurred in the winter of 1885. The place is now owned and occupied by his son, Andrew Vandorn. Willian Clark moved to the central part of the township about the 5'ear 184.1 and located a home on the farm owned at the time by Jacob Shively. His death in an early dav was one of the first events of the kind in the township. Another earl}- settler whose arrival is said to have been in 1840 or '41, was Moses Lari- mer, who purchased and settled on land adjacent to the town of Bunker Hill. Maston Thomas and his father were early settlers in the northern part of the township, where the former still resides, moving to that locality in 1840 or '41. Prominent among the arrivals of the latter }'ear, was Jacob Brandt, who settled on land which his father, Martin Brandt, had previously entered in Section 14. Mr. Brandt moved to his pur- chase a little later, and for a period of over forty years has been one of Pipe Creek's most intelligent and trustworthy citizens. He has taken an active interest in the growth and welfare of the township; and for several years was prominently identified with its educational interests. Joab Mendenhall settled near the Deer Creek Township line in 1841, locating the farm now owned by Daniel Duckwall. Upon this place a man b}- the name of Shively, a brother-in-law of Mr. Vandorn, had previously "squatted," and between him and Mr. Mendenhall a bitter dispute arose as to who had the best right to the claim. From words the quarrel merged into more hostile dem- onstrations, and Mr. Mendenhall being the stronger man of the two, tinally succeeded in ousting his rival, who took his departure for other and safer quarters. James Pettj- settled in the northern part of the township, early in the forties, but soon afterwards sold his improvement to a Mr. Cripe, and purchased what is now the Gar- nand farm on Pipe Creek. David Carr moved to the northern part of the tow^nship, as early as 1843, and the same year Mr. Winters, and a man by the name of Watts, settled on the Duckwall farm, near Bunker Ilill. The last two being unable to enter the land, soon moved from the country. The iirst improvements on the Jacob Brandt farm were made about the }ear 1841 by James A. Lewis, a transient settler, who sold his claim soon after to Martin Brandt and located a home on Little Deer Creek. Jeny Shaffer settled in the east part of the township, on Little Pipe Creek, as early as 1842, and was joined the same year by Isaac Marquis, who improved an adjoining farm. Among the settlers of 1843 were the following: John and Peter Redd, near the central part of the township, on the Clark farm; Jacob Pottarff, on the Maury farm, eastern part of the township, where he operated a blacksmith shop in an early day: PIPE CREEK TOWNSHIP. 74I Mr. Burr, on the Oldfather farm; James McGinnis, near Bunker Hill; Herman Spermbarger, near the eastern boundary; Henr}- Crabb, central part of the township, where S. Need now lives; Godfrey Helderlv, on the Da\ id Snidcnian farm: Daniel Rife, in the western part of the township, on land belonging to his son, Jacob Rife; John and EH Oliver, on the Duckwall farm, near the town of Bunker Hill. As early as 1844 there were li\ing within the present limits of the township, additional to those enumerated, the following settlers, to-wit: Robert Jennis, on the Arnold place, near Pipe creek; Noah Townsend, in the western part; Frederick Keller, eastern part of the township, and Rev. Samuel Devvese, about one mile west of Bunker Hill. S;mniel Durand made a tour of Pipe Creek Township in the vear 1837, and the year following laid claim to what is now the Wisinger farm, near the Wabash river, in Section i. He sub- sequently purchased this place, and moved his family to their new home in the wilderness earl}- in the forties. In addition to farming, Mr. Durand early engaged in the manufacture of potash, which, business he carried on with gratifying success for several years. In 1844 and '45 the township was rapidly settled by a class of substantial men, among whom are remembered the following: John Miller and Frederick Keller, near the Washington Town- ship line; David Graj-, in the vicinity of Bunker Hill: L. \'. Shirley, central- part of the township; William Parker and Cor- nelius Cain, western part; Charles Luy, in Section i; David A. Carr, C\rus G. Carr, Daniel B. Tyler, Henry Brcoks and Tiiomas Skillman, all in Section 2, Township 26 North, Range 3 East; Lorenzo Shirley, in central part; Thomas Ken worthy and John Beeslev, on Pipe Creek. The following were early set- tlers, to-wit: George Warner, John W. Vance, Bernard Van- dom, Stephen Abrahams, Thomas Dillard, Benjamin Hann, David and John Cain, Allen Jones, Mr. Hoover, E. Jones, N. D. Nicoles, Philip Raredon, Samuel Jones, George Vore, John Reed, Alexander Clark, David Chronister, Harvey Hoover, Stephen Cle- mens, David Striker, Cornelius Sullivan, B. F. Chaspie, Leonard Boniface, Jos. Sullivan, Samuel Sullivan, John Barker, David L. Bryson, Isaac H. Ha}nes, George Wright, John Hann, Rueben Shenebarger, Stephen Metsger, Samuel Bryson, William G. Van- dorn, John Duckwall, David Duckwall and Samuel Murray-. Mills, Etc. — "At an early date, probably about 1836, a saw mill was built near the present site of Wallick's mill, on Little Pipe Creek, by an Indian named Frank Godfroy." It was a primitive affair, and for several years manufactured lumber for the Indians. Jacob Betzner subsequently became proprietor and operated it with fair success, early in the forties. It fell into decay many years ago, 742 HISTORY OF MIAMI COLNTV. and at this time no vestige remains to mark the spot upon wiiich the building stood. In the year 1854, Martin Brandt erected a saw mill on Pipe Creek, Section 14, which he operated for a period of four \ears. It was then purchased h\ John and Daniel Rife, who run it for a number of years, doing a verv successful business the greater part of the time. John and Jacob Rife operated it as part- ners for some time, and later Jacob became sole owner. The mill ceased operations about the year 1876. John Duckwall, in the spring of 1850, erected a saw mill on Pipe Creek, where his present mill now stands, one mile northwest of Bunker Hill, with which he (lid an extensive and lucrative lumber business. Five years later he erected a flouring-mill, on adjacent ground, which he operated in connection \\ ith ins lumber interests until Jaiuiar\', 1857, when both mills were completeh' destroved b\' tire, entailing a loss of over $5,000. Mr., Duckwall rebuilt the saw-mill in 1858, and in 1876 erected the present large frame grist mill, which, after having been remodeled several times and supplied with machiner\' of the latest improved grades of dour, is now one of the best mills in Miami County. It is operated by both water and steam power, has a capacity of seventv-rive barrels per da^ , and manufactures flour for both local and general trade. The saw-mill is operated on quite an extensive scale, and in addition to saviing lumber is supplied u ith a planing mill and machinery for the manufacture of wagon felloes, lath, fence pickets and various other articles. About the vear 1855 or '56, Henrv Knell built a mill on Pipe Creek, on land owned at this time bv Christopher Shivelev. It was a saw-mill, with a corn cracker attached, and stood until about the vear 1871. Thomas Kenworthy, about the vear 1856, erected a saw- mill on Pipe Creek, about one-half mile below the Duckwall mill, and operated it for a period of six or eight years, when he sold out to D. B. Shivelv. The latter built a flouring mill on the same spot in 1872. which was subsequenth' purchased and torn awav bv John Duckwall. The Wallick flouring mill on Little Pipe Creek, in the northeast corner of the township, was erected earlv in the flfties. The original building, a small structure furnished with insufficient machinerv. was subsequenth' enlarged, and became, in course of time, one of the most successful mills in the countv south of the Wabash. It is still in operation, though not upon quite so extensive a scale as formerlv. In an earl\- da\' Charles Luv built a distiller\- in the northern part of the townshi]-), on what is now the Shepler farm. He ope- rated it with encouraging success for several vears, but subse- tjuently sold to other parties, who allowed it to fall into disuse. C/iurc/ies. — The religious historv of Pipe Creek Township dates from about the \ear 1843. at which time divine worship was held at the residence of Isaac Vandorn bv Rev. Matthew Cin-r\-, of PIPK CREKK TOWNSHIP. 743 the Methodist Church. "A little later the same year meetin<,fs were held in the same locality b}- the United Brethren, of which denomina- tion the Rev. Mr. Pugsley was an early preacher. Following these came ministers of the Baptist Church, among whom was Rev. Samuel Dewese, who organized the hrst religious society in the township, at his residence about one mile west of Bunker Hill. This was the Bunker Hill Baptist Church, of whicii a sketch will be found in the history of the town. The Methodists organized the next society, the history of which will be found on another page. The United Brethren Church in the northern part of the township, is an old organization, but its early history is involved in a great deal of obscurity. The societj' has a neat frame house of worship near the Wabash River, which is used at this time by an organization of the Evangelical Association, recently established. The United Breth- ren class is not so strong in numbers as formerly, but still sustains preaching at regular intervals. The German Baptists or Dunkards, began holding meetings in the township about the year 1850, and in 1852, the Pipe Creek Church, near the Cass County line, was form- ally organized. Among the early members were the following men and their respective families, viz: David Shepler, Abram Shepler, John E. Shively, D. B. Shively, Joshua Coblentz and others. The early preachers were Samuel Murray and Gottlieb Keller. Later came John E. Shively, Daniel B. Shivety, Joseph Shepler, Abraham Rine- hart and Daniel Long. The hrst house of worship was erected in in the spring of 1856, on land donated by Daniel Shively. It stood until 1872, at which time the present large brick building was erected on ground donated for the purpose by Hannah Metzgar. This house is 40x70 feet, with a cook house attached, and is per- haps the largest church edifice in Miami County. The membership at this time numbers about 190. The present church officers are David Shively, John Klepinger, Isaac Shepler, Emerj' Puterbaugh and George Wolfe, elders; Joshua Coblentz, Eli Miller and Samuel Puterbaugh, trustees. A society of the old order of Dunkards was organized in the northwestern part of the township, several years ago, which meets for worship in a frame building erected in the the year 1883. At this time there is a membership of only about lifteen, ministered to at regular intervals by Rev. Aaron Metzgar. Pleasant Hill Chriitian Church was organized in the }ear 1865 by Elder Wayman. The following are the names of the original members: J. W. Brandt, M. A. Brandt, A. A. Brandt, John P. Britton, Daniel Marken, Nancy Marken, Eva Winters, Harriet Hopper, N. D. Nichols, M. E. Nichols, Mary E. Mendenhall, John W. Byrket, Gran\ille E. Mendenhall and Jane Reed. Jacob Brandt and N. P. Nichols were the first elders, and Peter Rife and Granville Mendenhall were elected first deacons. Meetings were held in a school house until 1875, 744 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. at which time the frame temple of worship now in use was erected on a beautiful plat of ground donated by Jacob Brandt. The following pastors ministered to the church from time to time, to-wit: Elders Aaron Walker, M. Smith, David Hodson, Jefferson Hodson, Mordecai McKinney, W. R. Lowe, W. A. Hennegar, W. W. Henkins and W. A. Hough, the last named being pastor in charge at the present time. The society has made commendable progress, and at this time has the names of forty active members upon the records. The officers are: Jacob Brandt and D. A. McDowell, elders; J. S. Mays, Andrew VV'ag- gaman and Andrew Richardson, deacons. Miscellaneous Items. — Pipe Creek Township was organized as a seperate jurisdiction on the 6th day of September, 1843. An election for the purpose of choosing the necessary officials was held a little later the same year, at the cabin of William Clark. "Thomas Kenworthy was elected first Justice of the Peace." "Isaac Vandorn was chosen Trustee, but, refusing to servd, Rollin Huffman was appointed." The following gentle- men held the office of Trustee in an early day, viz: George Wright, Daniel Duckwall, George Shawman and I. E. Vandorn. The present incumbent is J. W. Liston. '■ The following were some of the earliest marriages in the township: James McCrary to Sarah Larimer, in 1843; John Tillett to a daughter of Cor- nelius Cain, in 1844; Alexander Abrahams to Mrs. Saraii Crane, the same year." "Among the earliest births was that of Nancy J. Larimer, born to Moses and Nancy Larimer in 1844. One of the first deaths was that of an infant child of Noah Townsend." Village of Leonda. — The town of Leonda on the I. P. & C. Railroad, Section 29, Township 26 North, Range 4 East, was laid out August, 185 1, by Jacob Pottarff and H. Hoover. It was an outgrowth of the railroad and early became a good trading point, and until the competition of the Pan Handle road it was the rival of Bunker Hill. Among the earliest residents of the place was Wal- ter P. Shaw, who opened a general store and sold goods for a cou- ple of years. Jacob Arnold was the next merchant, and after him came Samuel Jones, who, in addition to dealing in merchandise, opened his house for the accommodation of such travelers as saw fit to accept dnd pay for his hopitalities. Henry Rosenthal sold gro- ceries for a period of five or six years, and did a reasonably fair busi- ness. Dr. Rollen Hufford moved to the village and practiced the medical profession for some time. He was succeeded by Drs. Mur- phy and Albaugh, who left the town about the time the Pan Han- dle Railroad was finished. Among the mechanics of the place were Peyton Jenkins and Mr. Cook, wagon-makers; Frederick Betzner, James Bevans, Henry Poor and John Nieman, shoemakers ; Thomas PIPE CRKEK TOWNSHIP. 745 Ewing and William Holipeter, cabinet makers. The first postmas- ter was Joseph Arnold. The removal of the office to Bunker Hill in 1859, ^^'^^ accomplished b}' a piece of cunning strategy, in which Dr. James A. Meek took an active part. Leonda for a number of \ears entertained sanguine hopes of securing the Pan Handle Rail- road, but the completion of said road through JJunker Hill pr()\ed a deathblow to its further aspirations, and from that time the fortunes of the town began to wane. The business men and mechanics moved to other and more favorable localities, the most of them going to Bunker Hill, to which the construction of the Pan Handle gave new life, and in due time Leonda became a thing of the past. The plat was subsequentlv vacated, and at this time but few vintages of the once flourishing village remain to mark the spot where it formerly stood. Bunker Hill. — The town of Bunker Hill is pleasantK- situated at the intersection of the I., P. & C and Pan Handle railroads, in tiie southeast corner of the township, distant about eight mile^ from the citv of Peru, and sixteen miles from Xenia. It was laid out and plattecl in 185 1, and the plan recorded August of that year for James M\ers, Ji)hn Duck wall and Alexander Galbraith, proprietors. The original town includes forty-six lots and eight streets, in Sections 29 and 30, Township 26 North, Range 4 East, to which an addition of twentv-four lots was made b\- John Duckwallin June, 1852. Ac- cording to the testimony of those best informed, the first house on the present sight of the town, was a small dwelling erected by James Mvers, on lot No. 13, sometime in the vear 1851. Mr. Myers was a carpenter by trade and assisted in building man}- of the early resi- dences and business houses of the village. Andrew Bache pur- chased lot No. 2, the same year, and built a house where the dwelling of Jacob Lease now stands. Lot No. 4 was purchased and improved by Anthony Nieman, a short time after the surve}', and contempo- rary with him was James Sawyer, an old bachelor, who erected a small dwelling on lot No. 5 in the same part of town. Dr. Hufford was one of the earlv residents of the place. He erected a residence on Elm street, lot No. 14, and also built the first business house in the village on Third street, which is still standing. Merchants. — The first stock of goods in Bunker Hill was offered for sale by Dr. Hufford, in the building mentioned above, but of the success of his business enterprise we are not informed. The next store was opened by Messrs. Heward & Lowe, who kept in a building on Third street for about two years. Heward subse- quently disposed of his interest to Daniel Duckwall, and he in turn to Mr. Lowe. J. G. Ewing and Mr. Heward sold goods as part- ners as earlv as 1861 or '62, and, in 1865, Jacob Arnold had a gen- eral store in the north end of the town, on the corner of Fourtii and Main streets, where he carried on business until some time in 1866. 746 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. His building is still standing on lot No. 62, used at this time for a dwelling. D. H. and John Cain opened a general store in 1868, which he subsequently sold to Alfred Bell, and he in turn disposed of the stock to James Cain. Eli Hochstetler started a small grocery business about the same time, or perhaps a little earlier, but remained for only a limited period. Frank Hartman and Simon Kalter effected a co-partnership in general merchandising about the year 1867 or '68, and the firm, thus constituted, continued until the for- mer's death, at which time Mr. Kalter took entire control and con- tinued the business until 1873, erecting the building now occu- pied bv M. Finney in the meantime. The hrst business house in Hendrick's addition w'as erected about the year 1868 by Albert D. and Joseph Jones, who occupied it about one year, selling out at the end of that time to Timothy Scott. The last named merchant brought a stock of goods from Miami in 187 1, and was identified with the mercantile interests of the town at intervals for six or seven years. Jacob Betzner began merchan- dizing in 1 87 1 or '72, and about the same time John F. Rey- nolds moved a store from North Grove, and for two years thereafter carried on business in a building on the corner of Railroad and Broadway streets. The lirst hardware store was started in 187 1 by C. T. Miner, who, after a short time, sold his stock to Messrs. Patterson & Meek. The latter effected a partnership with D. T. Gilmore, which lasted for some time. In August, 187 1, Messrs. Kalter & Keegan started a boot and shoe store, the first of the kind in the town, and continued the same until 1873. The following business men and firms were identified with the commercial interests of Bunker Hill from time to time, viz: S. J. Hockman, W. T. Wilson, D. T. Gil- more, Wm. B. Patterson, Dr. Da\is, J. B. McKinnev. Noah W. Trissell, John F. Busey, Samuel Sommers and Trissell & Blue. Mcchiinics. — The early mechanics of Bunker Hill were Chas. B. Mason, R. T. Jones and Joseph C. Lamborn, blacksmiths: Artemus Morris and Henry Coffman, carpenters. Samuel \?\- entine opened a tin shop early in the sixties, and about the year 1865 a man by the name of Lane engaged in the cabinetmak- er's trade. Three years later Abraham Billheimer opened a cabi- net shop, which he operated quite successfully in connection with the undertaker's and general furniture business. The tirst shoemaker ^vas John Nieman. Peter Keegan was perhaps the next to open a boot and shoe shop, at which trade he is still working. Jlotch. — The tirst hotel was built by George Larimer about the time of the construction of the Pan Handle railroad. It was first kept b\' Ralph Jones and William Busey, who run it a short time. William R. Breckenridge purchased the property in 1879 PIPE CREKK TOWNSHIP. 747 and enlarged the building, adding many necessary improvements. It is situated at the crossing of the I., P. & C. and Pan Handle railroads, and is kept at this time by W. W. Robbins. JManuJactnres. — The first saw-mill in Bunker Hill was built by William Hendricks prior to 1868. It was operated for some time by Walter Shaw, who did a good local business. It was subsequenth' replaced b}' the present steam saw-mill, brought to the town by A. C. Bennett, who, after doing business some years, sold out to W. H. Croucher & Co. Samuel Clark ope- rates the mill at this time. In 1879 Messrs. Billheimer & Blue erected a planing mill, which the}' operated with encouraging success for several years, manufacturing all kinds of furniture in the meantime. It passed through the hands of various parties, and was operated last by W. N. Wilson. Physicians. — The first medical man to locate in Bunker Hill was Dr. Hufford, to whom reference has already been made. The next was Dr. James A. Meek, who, with the exception of a few months, has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession since 1866. Drs. O. C. Irwin, H. C. McClurg, John Cain, H. P. McDowell, S. H. Davis, I. C. Cooper and Dr. Ha\'es have practiced in the village at different times. The present physicians are Drs. Meek, Wilson, Davis, McDowell and Cooper. The Press. — The first newspaper enterprise of Bunker Hill was the V^illagr A^czus, established about the year 1870, b^■ Jasper Keves, who run it for a period of one vear, at the end of which time George F. Metzger became editor and proprietor. He changed the name to that of Phc Indcfcndcnt Press, and in partnership with John F. Busby, continued the publication about one year, during which time the paper reached a verv fair circulation. The next editor was E. M. Howard, who enlarged the paper and changed it from a neutral to a political sheet. He ran it for a limited period and then sold the ofiice to Messrs. Walters & Larimer, under whose management the name was again changed, this time to that of The Bunker Hill Press. O. A. Larimer subsequently became pro- prietor, but in a few months sold out to the present editor, John W. O'Hara, one of the most successful newspaper men in Miami County. The Press is now a five-column quarto, independent in politics, but fearless in the discussion of all the leading to]iics of the day. Its mechanical execution will compare favorabl\' with that of any other local paper in the county, and its circulation and advertis- ing patronage, already quite remunerative, is constantly increasing. Mr. O'Hara is an able writer, and we bespeak for the Press a pros- perous future. Growth and Additions. — Until the completion of the Pan Handle railroad in 1868, Bunker Hill was but an insignificant country vil- 748 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. lage; but the opening of said road marked an important era in its history. From that vear until 1873, the growth and development of the town was quite rapid, and it became one of the best shipping points for lumber, grain, live stock, etc., in the county. Real estate during that period commanded good prices, business of all kinds was quite prosperous, and the population was increased by the addition of a large number of substantial and enterprising citizens. This growth, while quite rapid, was not spasmodic, and the town has since been able to maintain the reputation of one of the best commercial points in the county outside the city of Peru. The following addi- tions have been platled from time to time, viz: William Hendricks' addition, eight lots, April, i860; John Kripe's addition, six lots, April, 1868; Larimer's addition, si.xleen lots, March, 1869; D. H. Cain's addition, forty-one lots, April, 1870; James A. Meek made an addition of several lots in April, 1871: Trissell's addition of eighteen lots was surveyed and recorded May, 1873; David Duckwall's addition of several lots was made June, 1873: Frick's addition of four lots, March, 1874, ^"^ Kroutter's addition of four lots was platted December of the latter year. lucorporat'nni. — In 1873, the citizens of Bunker Hill decided b\- a majoritv vote of the population, to take upon ihemsllves the responsibility of erecting and maintaining a town corporation. Accordingly a board of three trustees, a clerk and treasurer were elected to put the municipal machinery in motion. The board was composed of the following gentlemen : H. P. McDowell, Robert C. Foor and Cvrus Baker, trustees, and Dr. James A. Meek, clerk and treasurer. The officers for 1886 are as follows: Cyrus Baker, Stephen Finnev, George Armstrong, W. W. Robbins and Eli Bow- man. Trustees: R. C. Foor, Clerk and Treasurer, and John N. Davis, Marshall. Bunker Hill Lodi^c, ^'So.jjdg. I. O. O. F., was innitiUed June 16, 1871, by Special Deputy E. H. Barry, Grand Secretary, assisted by John Stewart acting as G. M., Frank Blair as Grand Marshall, I." M. Runvan as G. Secretary: John Reynolds, G. Tre;isurer; F. S. Hadlev. G. Conductor; John W. Edward.s, G. vSentinel. and James W. Highland as G. Guardian. The following names appear upon the charter: James A. Meek, Cyrus Baker, Peter Keegan, Jesse L. Hobson, Daniel Baker, James Bennett. Noah W. Tris: 30 760 HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. Mr. O'Hara was appointed postmaster at Bunker Hill, September, 1885. Mr. O'Hara was married January, 1878, to Miss Ella C. Thornton, of Galveston, Cass County, and this union has been blessed with four children, viz.: May (deceased), Bessie, James and Genevieve. Mrs. O'Hara is a lady of superior intelligence, and, besides being a ready writer in prose, has written much in verse, which is said, b^■ those best acquainted with her writings, to possess much merit. WILLIAM W. ROBBINS, proprietor of the Robbins Hotel in Bunker Hill, is the second in a famih' of six children born to Joseph M. and Elizabeth (Knox) Robbins, the former a native of New York, and of English descent; the latter a native of Ohio and of Irish descent. The parents were united in mar- riage in Jefferson County in the year 1841, and mo\ed to DeKalb County, Indiana, in 185 1, where they resided until their respective deaths, the mother dving in 1863 and the father in 1876. William grew to manhood in DeKalb Count}-, and was raised to agricultural pursuits. He obtained a good English education, and at the age of- sixteen years tried to enter the army, but was rejected on account of his youth, but was accepted later. He enlisted in Company D, One Hundred and Eeighteenth Regiment, Indiana Volunteers, under Buchanan, and served eight months, when he received an honorable discharge. He enlisted in September, 1864, in Companv G, Twentv-tirst Regiment, First Indiana Heavy Artillery, and served until the close of the war. Returning from the war he embarked in the photography business, which he conducted until 1875. In 1880, he took charge of the Robbins Hotel in Bunker Hill. April 22, 1869, Alice E. Dinius became his wife. They were married b}- Rev. Bishop A. Weaver, of the U. B. Church. She is a native of Huntington County, born July 18, 1851, and one of a family of seven children born to John G. and Marv (Bash) Dinius, natives of Stark Countv, Ohio, and of German descent. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Robbins, namely: Edith, Clara E. and Paul. Mr. Robbins is now captain of the Bunker Hill Light Guards, which company he organized in 1885. While a resident of Huntington County he held a commission as second lieutenant in the Lime City Batter)', a State organization. Mr. Robbins is one of the leaders and able counselors of the Demo- cratic party in Miami County, a member of the I. O. O. F. and John M. Wilson Post, No. 12, G. A. R. BENSON SULAVAN, son of Joshua and Nancy Sulavan, the former a native of Mar^^land, and the latter a native of Vir- ginia, is the proprietor of the leading general store of merchan- dise in Bunker Hill. He was born near Athens, Ohio, Feb- ruary I, 1838. His parents emigrated to and settled in Harrison BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 761 Township, this county, in 1847. Mere the}- purchased a wild tract of land, built a cabin and opened up roads, there beint;; but two laid out roads south of the Wabash. Benson was reared at home until thirteen years of a last until the growing crop or garden could supply the necessi- ties of the family. For several years, in some of the settle- ments, the people were obliged to rely almost altogether upon their own resources. The nearest point where flour could be got or wheat ground was the Burrell Daniels mill, on Eel River, west of Mexico, a trip to which through the forests in the absence of roads was an undertaking of no little difficulty. A temporary supply of grain was occasionally secured from some older set- tler who had harvested a crop, which sufficed until the growing' corn became of sufficient size to eat. When the kernel was suf- ficiently firm, the grater was brought into requisition, and a sort of head or p(jrridge made. The grater often got the name of " blood mill '" from the mishaps which frequently befell the fingers of the operator. This simple machine was made by per- forating the bottom or sides of a worn-oiU tin pan with numer- ous small holes, which were punched with a nail or similar instru- ment, and upon the ragged edges of these perforations, the RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 765 immature corn was rubljed until little but the (.ob remained. When the grain became hard and the grater no longer effective, the mortar was brought into requisition. This consisted of a large block or stump, in which a kettle-shaped excavation was made by burning or scraping. A pestle was made of a heavy pole, to the end of which was often tixed an iron wedge. This was suspended to a sweep, such as was formerly used at wells, the lower end of which was fixed to the ground bv stakes, con- verting it into a spring pole. Many of the cabins had the burn- ing block, and among the earlier sounds about the domicile was the monotonus proceeding of the frontier mill. The machine furnished several grades of meal from fairlv line to simplv cracked grains, and this was separated by sei\'es, some of which were constructed with a deer skin tightly stretched on a frame and punctured with small holes. The finer part of the meal was transformed into the " dodger,'" which was baked upon the hearth, while the coarser product was served up as hominy. . Although the stream afforded good sites for the construction of water mills, the necessary machinery and mechanical skill were for a long time wanting. The first grist mill within the borders of Richland was built on what is now the J. C. Davis farm as earlv as 1841 bv one George Goud\', who operated it with good success for sever;il 3'ears. The mill building was a frame structure, supplied with fair machiner\', and received its motive power from the waters of Eel River. It passed through the hands of various parties, and ceased operations about the vear 1883. The last proprietor was a Mr. Zevner. Another flouring mill was built a few vears later on Eel river, above the town of Chili, b\ William McCallv, which is still standing, operated at this time bv Jacob Myers. It has been repaired and is now doing a fairly successful business. About the year 1846, John Lcng built a saw mill on Flower Creek, near Chili, which was subsequentK converted into a mill for grinding grain bv Wil- liam McCollev, who operated it several years. The machinery was afterwards moved from the countr}-, and the old building llnally fell into decay. Messrs. Daniels & Burns built a large frame flouring mill on Eel Rivei", near the northeast corner of the township, about the year 1858. It was operated by Dan- iels & Burns several years, and afterwards b}- L. Patterson, who did the last grinding in 1879 or '80. One of the first early saw mills in the township was built by Samuel Rank about 185CJ, and stood on the site of the Daniels flouring mill. It was in operation for several years and did a fairly successful local business. A still earlier mill for the manufacture of lumber was built on Paw- Paw Creek, one-half mile west of Paw-Paw village, some time in the forties, by Robert Miller, who operated it 766 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. quite extensively for a number of years. It subsequently passed into the hands of other parties and ceased operations about the year 1874. Jonas Hoover was the last proprietor. A saw mill was built on Eel River, opposite the village of Chili, some time in the fifties, by William Miller. It manufactured a great deal of lumber, but was allowed to fall into disuse about the vear 1870. Another early industry of the township was a carding machine erected by Mr. Martindale on Flower creek, near Chili, prior to 1846. It ran several years as a woolen factorv, but, not proving remunerative, was subsequentlv remodeled and sup- plied with machinery for the manufacture of flour and meal. It fell into decay many )-ears ago, and but few vestiges now remain to mark the spot upon which the building stood. There have been several steam saw mills in the township at different times, and the lumber business has for vears been an impiortant industry. Township Organization. — Richland Township was organized and set apart as a separate jurisdiction on the 6th dav of Novem- ber, 1837. "The following August, 1838, an election for the pur- pose of chosing the officers necessarv to put the township machinery in motion was held at the residence of David Williams. Edmund I. Kidd and Martin Scruggs were chosen the first Justices of the Peace: Moses Martindale. Thomas Smith and Da\id Williams, Trustees. Early Events. — "Among the first marriages celebrated in the tow nsliip was that of Willis Buck to a daughter of Robert Watson, in 1839. '^^'^ same vear w'as solemnized the marriage of Edmund Blackman and a Miss Williams, daughter of David Williams. The first death, so far as known, was that of a daughter of Richard Mil- ler, which occurred some time in 1839. Among the first births of the township was that of Richard Miller, son of Robert and Rebecca Miller, born in the vear 1838. The oldest burving ground in Rich- land is the Chili cemeterv. where rest manv of the pioneer settlers of the countrv. The Paw-Paw graveyard was consecrated to the burial of the dead in 1840, and the first person interred therein was Margaret, daughter of Richard and Amy Miller." Ciiiirches. — Among the early pioneers of Richland were many pious men and women, consequentlv its religious historv dates from the period of its first settlement. The first meeting was held at the cabin of Robert Miller in 1837, bv ministers of ' the Methodist Church. Among the earliest whom are remembered were Revs. Beswick. Truslow, Ravmond. McFarland and W^estlake. The same vear public services were held at John Long's residence, where in 1 838 was organized a small class, out of which, subsequently, grew the organization at Chili. The Paw-Paw Church in the east- ern part of the township was organized about the year 1839, and RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 767 among its early members were Robert Miller, Rebecca Miller, E. I. Kidd and wife, Ellen Kidd, J. D. Cox, John Ellison and wife, Richard Miller and wife, John Miller and wife, Robert Miller, Allen Lockridge and wife, and others, whose names were not learned. Revs. Webster, Anderson, Holliday and Bradshaw were earh' pa.s- tors. School houses and private residences were used as meet- ing places until 1842, at which time a neat frame temple of worship was built on the land of Richard Miller, a short distance from Paw- Paw village. This house has been thoroughly remodeled, and at this time is one of the best country church edifices in the count}'. The church was formerly the head of the Paw-Paw circuit, but is now a point on the circuit of Roann. The society has been a potent factor for good in the community, and although not so strong as in former vears, is still in a prosperous condition, with an active mem- bership of 50. The otlicers at this time are: J. M. Jones, Class Leader; J. C. Miller and J. M. Jones. Stewards; A. E. King. T. C Miller, J. D. Cox, J. M.Jones and J. C. Miller, Trustees. Chili M. E. Church was organized at the residence of John Long in 1838 or '39, from which date, until some lime in the forties, meetings for public worship were held at the houses of different members. The earl\' history of the societv is somewhat obscure, owing to the absence of anything like an authentic record. But from the oldest member now living we learn that Frederick Long, Moses Martindale and Samuel Woolpert, with members of their respective families, were among the first to identify them- selves with the organization. For several years the growth of the society was somewhat slow, but as the settlers increased it began to take on new life, and, early in the forties, the propriety of erecting a house of worship began to be discussed. The under- taking, once inaugurated, was in due time prosecuted to comple- tion, and, about the vear 1845, a frame building was erected in Chili, a short distance from the spot occupied by the present edi- fice. Beginning with the year 1S43, the following were among the pastors of tlie church until within a comparati\ely recent date, viz: Allen Skillman, Paul Jones, O. P. Boyden. Jacob Colclazer, D. F. Strite, George Guild, P. J. Beswick, Mr. Hazen, Arthur Badley, P. F. Milner, John Davis, William Reeder, J. C. Medsker, Mr. KicCaster, S. Woolpert. R. H. Calvert, S. P. Stephens, J. C. White, A. V. Garrell, H. J. Lacy, R. Buchanan, A. S. Lakin, Lewis Roberts, W. J. Vigus, Enoch Waymire. W. J. Martindale, Samuel Lamb, William Comstock, V. M. lieamer, John Birt, David Thompson, P. Carland. James Leonard, C. E. Disbro, R. J. Parrott, W. R. Jordan. F. A. Robinson. James Johnson, J. II. Ford and George Mill. The present substantial brick temple of worship, the largest and most commodious church edifice in the township, was finished and formalh- dedicated in the year 1866. The mem- 768 HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. bership of the society at this time numbers about fifty-eight. David Woolpert is class leader, and David Woolpert, steward. Chili Baptist Church. — The history of this orAM) TOWNSIIII'. 76^ way, North, Third, Soutli, Bluff and Lime; tlie first four running East and West, and the other two North and South. Among the tirst residents within the present limits of the village, was Daniel Lander, who built a small store building, which is still standing, occupied at the present time by George Hammond. Mr. Lander was a ruling spirit in an early day, holding the otlice of Justice of Peace, and was also the first Postmaster of the town. Lemuel Osborne was an earh* settler also. He built a residence near the present site of the Baptist Church, and was one of the first mechan- ics of the place. The house in which he resided is still stand- ing, occupied at this time by J. C. Belew. John Belew came to the village when it was but a mere opening in the surrounding forest, and engaged in the manufacture and repair of saddles and harness. The first business man was the present veteran merchant, N. C. Hall, who bought a geperal stock of goods in 1845, and offered the same for sale in a little log cabin that stood on the spot now occupied by the residence of Parvin Fike. Mr. Hall earlv acquired the reputation of an honest, fair- dealing business man. and with the exception of eight years, has been identified with the commercial interests of the town from the date of his arrival until the present time. Mr. Belew sold goods in an early daj', engaging in the trade a little later than than Hall, and continuing for a limited period. The ne.xt busi- ness men were probably Messrs. Guy & Norris, who ran a general store, as partners, for a short time. Among other busi- ness men, from time to time, were the following: Mr. Moffatt, Hurst, Lash, William Connor, Mr. Sargent, Samuel Kessling, Adam Await, D. Sturgis and George Await. The first physician to locate in the town was Dr. W.J. Chamb- lin, whose arrival antedates the year 1847. After him came from time to time the following medical men, viz: Drs. Beckner, Rob- bins, J. Q. A. Robbins. IVIiranda and others. At this time there- are two resident phvsicians, viz: Drs. D. Ridenour and J. C. Wait. The earlv mechanics were Lemuel Osborn, cabinet-maker; Mr. Await, wood-workman; John DeBolt, shoe-maker; Frederick Gil- bert, Henry Fike and John Shilling, blacksmiths. The first hotel was kept bv Thomas Otter. For many vears Chili sustained the reputation of one of the best trading points in Miami County, but with the advent of the railroad and the consequent building up of Denver, three miles distant, its prosperity began to decline. It is still, however, a place of considerable local importance, and in conse- i|uence of its location in the midst of a fine agricultural district, is destined always to enjoy a fair proportion of the current trade. Its population does not probably exceed 300. There are two pros- perous church organizations, Methodist and Baptist, sketches of which have already been given, and a tine two-story graded school 770 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. building, one of the best in the count)-. There are at this time two good general stores kept by N. C. Hall and and T. P. Svvigart, and one drug store kept by Harrison Gilbert. The mechanics are Frederick Gilbert and John Shilling, shoe- makers; Amos Wilkinson and George Hammond, carpenters; Henry Oden, shoe-maker; Parvin Fike, carpenter and wagon-maker. The only hotel in the place is kept by George Williams. Mr. McDon- ald operates a large steam saw-mill near the railroad, and is in the enjoyment of a very prosperous lumber business. John Fetrow is the gentlemanly railroad agent and Mrs. Lottie Await attends to the duties of the postoffice. Chili Lodge, JVo. J02, J. O. O. 7^, was instituted about the ytta.v 1867 or '68 with five charter members. Among the early officers were William Tubbs, N. G.: William Beecher, V. G. ; A. B. Andrews, Secretarv; M. Hurst, Permanent Secretary. A large liall was erected in 1872, and at one time the lodge had a membership of over fifty. It is not nearly so prosperous as for- merlv. there being at this time not to exceed twenty names upon the records. The oflicers for 18S6 are as follows: C. Latta, N. G.; J. C. Wait, V. G.; S. O. Bigley, Secretary: D. G. Wool- pert, Permanent Secretary, and R. N. Norris, Treasurer. C/iili Lodge, A^o. 568, P. & A. M., was organized September, 1882, with the following charter members: N. C. Hall, J. W. Fetrow, H. W. Baltimore, John C. Belew, David Ridenour, James Davis, J. Q. A. Robbins, W. Huddleston, John Thomp- son and Joseph Asphalt. The first officers were: J. Q. A. Rob- bins, W. M.: J. C. Belew, S. W.: David Ridenour, J. W.; James C. Davis, Secretary: H. F. DeHaven, S. D.: John W. Fetrow, J. D., and John Thompson, Tyler. The lodge is in the enjoyment of a reasonable degree of prosperity, and at this time has an active membership of nineteen. Present officers — J. C. Belew, W. M.; John W. Fetrow, S. W.: Joseph Asphalt, J. W.; David Ridenour, Secretary: William Watson, Treasurer: H. F. DeHaven, S. D.; John Thompson, J. D., and James Davis, Tyler. Paw-Paw. — The village of Paw-Paw, situated in the eastern part of the township, was founded by Richard .Vliller, who estab- lished a trading post upon the present site, so long ago, perhaps, as 1840. His place of business in time became the nucleus of quite a thriving settlement, and to further the interest of the locality, he with Joseph Hall, emplo3'ed a surveyor and laid out a plat of twenty-four lots, the record of which bears date of April, 1847. The town thus started soon attracted the usual number of mechanics and artisans, and within a short time several shops of different kinds were in active operation. Among the first workers to plv their trades in the place were James Wright, blacksmith: B. Vandergriff, Alvin Kite and George King, wagon-makers; George Brown and Lawson Hum- RTCHLAND TOWNSHIP. 771 phreys were the cabinet-makers of the town, the latter of whom did quite a successful business for several years. An' early industry was a tannery, operated by Richard Miller. It was subsequently run bv J. I). Bolton, who did a good business. J. Jones was the first physician of the place, and the last one to practice his profession here was Dr. Wm. tlill. Richard Miller carried on a general mer- cantile business for a number of jears, and was succeeded by Daniel McCahan. William Miller was, perhaps, the next merchant, after whom came in G. B. Miller, John Armantrout and Daniel Rep. The town continued to be a good local trading point until the com- pletion of the Eel River Railroad through the country, a couple of miles distant, which proved its death blow. The mechanics who had ventured to the place in prosperous days now quietly departed for more promising fields. The last merchant disposed of his mer- chandise, and within a short time the epitaph of ancient Carthage was written for Paw-Paw. Through the instrumentality of N. G. Miller, who purchased the lots from time to time and removed the buildings, the plat was finally vacated, and the greater part of the town that once gave much promise has been conxerled into a culti- vated tleld. A few dismantled dwellings and other buildings, time stained and bearing every evidence of decay, are all that now remain to mark the spot where once stood the beautiful and pros- perous little town of Paw-Paw. Woolcytown. — In the year 1846 Amos Wooley and his sons, William, J. N. and Amos, Jr., came to Richland and located near the northwest corner of the township, a couple of miles from the present site of Denver. The Wooley brothers were mechanics, and a short time after their arrival they started a a blacksmith and wagon shop on their place, which, at that time, was the center of a very thriving settlement. They did well at their respective vocations, and, the locality being remote from any trading point, it was finally determined to bring a store to the place. Accordingly, in 1850, William Harp, a son-in-law of the elder Woolev, opened out with a miscellaneous assortment of merchandise in the upper room of J. N. Wooley's wagon shop. Encouraged by the success of his venture, he subse- quently erected a good frame store building, in which he carried on a thriving business until about the year 1865. He left the place that J'ear, moving his stock of merchandise to the village of Five Corners, in what is now Allen Township. The ne.xt vender of goods was one Abraham Leedy, who. though not so successful as his predecessor, did a reasonabl\- prosperous busi- ness, until the growth of neighboring villages interfered with the success of his trade. His was the last mercantile establish- ment in Wooleytown. W. W. Fetrow and Levi Hill worked at the blacksmith's trade for some time in the village, and J. M. Hoof- 772 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. man earlyacquired considerable reputation as a manufacturer of looms for the weaivng of- all kinds of common woolen fabrics. Another industry of this place was the shop of Peter Hand & Son, man- ufacturers of grain cradles, which at one time had quite an ex- tensive sale throughout Miami and adjoining counties. Wooley- town, like the villages of Chili and Paw-Paw, saw its best days before the advent of the railroads, upon the completion of which its star sank behind the horizon, never again to become visible. No plat of the place was ever made, and at this time its site is difficult to distinguish from the surrounding country. Anson, a paper town in Sections 14 and l5, 22 and 23, of Townships 27 and 28, North Range 4 East, was laid out in May, 1853, by Benjamin Griffith, Michael Taylor, EH Free- stone and Thomas Jameson. The site is a short distance east of Denver, and the town was projected for the purpose of securing the I., P. & C. Railroad. The road being surveyed through the countr}- a short distance west, no efforts were made to improve the town, and the plat was subsequentlv vacated. The physicians of the village were Drs. Baker and GritTith. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES, THOMAS BLACK, an old and highly esteemed citizen of Miami County, is a native of Preble County', Ohio, and dates his birth from November 21, 1812. His parents, Daniel and Elizabeth (Deem) Black, were natives of Penns3lvania and Ken- tucky, respectiveh', born as follows: The father born Septem- ber 2, 1776, and the mother was born November 6, 1783. They were married in Keptuckj', April 25, 1802, and subsequentlv settled in Butler County, Ohio, and later moved to Preble County, Ohio, where they afterwards resided until their respec- tive deaths, which occurred as follows: The father died March 16, 1863, and the mother June 4, 1867. They were the parents of four children, viz: John, David, Uri and Thomas, our sub- ject, the Youngest member of the family. He was married in Preble County, Ohio, August 21, 1838, to Barbara, daughter of John and Catherine (Siler) Craft. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, March 25, 1814. In the fall of 1843, Mr. Black moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled upon the farm where he now resides, in Richland Township. He owns 158 acres of line and well-improved land. He has had born to him eight children, viz: William H., born November 14, 1841, John, born March 10, 1844: Malissa C, born May 8, 1846 (deceased); Clementine, born August 20, 1848 (deceased); Deem, born BIOGR.VI'IIK AI, SKirrcUKS. 773 June 20, 1852 (deceased); Thomas F., born March 22, 1855, and two whicli died in infancy and not named. Mr. Black is a hi ^^73'-> Samuel A., born October 3, 1869, and died November 5, 1878. On November 25, 1874, ^I'"- GritKlh married Mrs. Eliza J. Long, and daughter of James M. and Anna E. (Mitton) Jones. She is a native of Indiana, and was born March 4, 1845. Si.x chil- dren have been born to this union, viz: Oscar E., born Decem- ber 8, 1875; James O., born January 25, 1877; Minnie L., born February 17, 1879; Harrison G., born February 23, 1881; James L., born August 21, 1882; and Annie, born March 3, 1884. Mr. Griffith and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He owns, at present, 166 acres of fine land. His wife has one child born to her by Mr. Long, Amos E., born June 26, 1864. JAMES HOLLENSHADE, one of the pioneers of Miami County, is a native of Montgomery Count}-, Ohio, and born July I, 1812. His parents, James and Catharine (Weist) Hollen- shade, were natives of Ireland and Pennsylvania, respectively. The father was born in County Down, Ireland, in June, 1770. He was one of five children born to Tites and Jane Hollenshade. He immigrated to the United States in about the year 1792, landing at Norfolk, Virginia, and from thence went to Baltimore, Maryland, and subsequently to York County, Pennsylvania, where he was married to Catherine Weist. In 1809 he moved to the State of Ohio, where he resided until death, which occurred in Preble County, March 25, 1840. His widow subse- quently moved to Jersey County, Illinois, where she died July 12, 1855, '^^ ^^^ '^g*^ of seventy-four years, seven months and twenty-two da\'s. They were the parents of six children, viz: John, Jane, Jacob, James, Nancy and Margaret. James Hollen- shade was married in Preble County, Ohio, January 29, 1835, to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Barbara (Sherer) Spacht. She was born in Preble County, Ohio, October 30, 1812. Aftei- their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Hollenshade settled near Eaton, Ohio, where they resided until 1850, when they moved to Miami County, Indiana, settling upon the same farm on which he now resides, in Ricliland Township, Section 23. Mr. Hol- lenshade owns at present 230 acres of fine and well-improved land. His wife died June 8, 1872; and on April 16, 1874, he mar- ried Anna E., daughter of Absalom and Rebecca (Homes) Boi- court. She was born in Decatur County, Indiana, June 27, 1848. Mr. Hollenshade has had born to him five children, viz: Catharine, born October i, 1837, and died August 6, 1857: Mary B., born May 27, 1840: Jacob M., born March 28, 1842; Elizabeth M., born January 22, 1846, and died September 17, 1871, by his first wife; and Jesse L., born October 21, 1876, by his last wife: also one adopted child, Bertha W., born September 2, 187 1. TIMOTHY L. KING, one of the pioneers of Miami County, 31 776 HISTORY OF MIAMI COLNTV. is a nati\e of Berkshire County, Massachusetts, was born March 9, 1814. His parents — Justis B. and Sally ( Wainwright ) King — were natives of Massachusetts, and from thence, in 1817, moved to the State of Ohio. They were the parents of seven children, viz: Mary, David W., Jane L., William H., Clarissa A., Timothy L. and Artelissa E. Timothy L., our subject, accompanied his parents to Ohio, and was married in Portage County, that State, September 9, 1835, to Mary M., daughter of Levi and Lydia (Chapman) Wright. She was born in Tioga Count}-, New York, January 15, 1818. After Mr. King's mar- riage, he first settled in Portage County, Ohio, where he resided until the fall of 1S39, '^'^ which time he moved to Miami Count}', Indiana, settling upon land in Erie Township. In March, 1846, he settled upon the farm where he now resides, in Section 32, Richland Township. He owns at present seventy-six acres of fine and well improved land. Has had born to him eleven chil- dren, viz: Riley G., born December 24, 1836; Austa I., born September 19, 1838; Lydia J., born March 31, 1841, and died May 27, 1869; Wilham W., born July 6, 1843. and died July 6, 1865: Albert E., born January 13, 1846: Florence E., born March 10, 184S,: Oscar A., born February 22, 1851: Mary A., born September 6, 1853, and died April 17, 1875: Charles L., born Feburary 20, 1856, and died November 11, 1876; Emma L., born June 29, 1862, and Frederick E., born February 27. 1865. Mr. King and wife are members of the M. E. Church. DANIEL KING is a native of Baden, Germany, born Decem- ber 10, 1830. His parents were Daniel and Mary (Shrinear) King, both nati\es of Germany, and were born as follows: The father in the year 1802, and the mother in the year 1808. They were the parents of five children, viz: Mary, Frederick, George, Margaret and Daniel, our subject, the eldest member of the faniil}-. He emi- grated to the United States in 1853, landing at New York City, and from thence, moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 1854, to Miami Counts-, Indiana, where he was married, December i, 1861, to Mary King. She was born in Baden, Germany, November 15, 1838, and was a daughter of Martin and Solomo (Zear) King. After our subject's marriage, he settled near Stockdale, in Perry Township, where he resided until the spring of 1865, at which time he moved to a farm in the same township, where he resided until the spring of 1884. He then settled upon his present farm in Richland Town- ship, Section 24, which he had purchased in 1880. He owns at present 281 acres of fine and well impro\edland, 121 acres in Rich- land Township, upon which he resides, and 160 acres in Perry Township. He has had born to him nine children, viz: Freeda, born September 15, 1862; Minna, born January 6, 1865: Adelena, born February 20, 1867; Lizzie, born March 28, 1869: Mary I., BICX5RAPHICAL SKETCHES. 777 born September 7, 187 1 ; George W., born March 29, 1874; Charles, born Deeember 4, 1S76; Emma, born April 17, 1879, and Mar- garet N., born September 16, 1881. CHARLES M. LONG was born in Union County, Indiana, September 27, 1S32. His parents, John and Margaret (Martin- dale) Long, were natives of North Carolina and Kentucky, respec- tively. The father was a son of Frederick and Rachel (Starr) Long, also natives of North Carolina. The_v emigrated to Union Count\', Indiana, in 181 2. They were the parents of seven chil- dren, viz: Sarah, Elizabeth, John, Henry, Ann, Joseph and James. John Long was born in Surrey County, North Carolina, April 25, 1807. He was married in Wayne County, Indiana, October 22, 1829, to the above Margaret Martindale, who was born in Kentucky, May 29, 1808. In 1836 Mr. John Long moved to Miami County, Indiana, and settled in Richland Township, where he has since resided. He is the father of seven children, viz : Anna, Charles M., N'ancy J., Amos, John W., Wilhelm H. and Margaret E. Charles M., our subject, came with his parents to this count}- in 1836. He was married at Chili, Indiana, August 26, 1855, to Lentha A., daughter of Daniel and Amelia (Chandler) Griswold. She was born in Windsor County, Vermont, July 28, 1836. After his mar- riage, Mr. Long settled upon the same farm on which he now resides in Section 14, Richland Township. He owns at present 320 acres of tine and well improved land. He has had born to him nine children, viz: Clara A., born August 7, 1856, (deceased); Flora M., born February 5, 1859: Archibald J., born May 10, 1861; EHle A., born October i. 1863, (deceased); Charles W., born May 26, 1866; Emma I., born October 6, 186S; John F., born April 29. 1872; Uly C, born October 27, 1874, and Wiltie C. born March 10, 1877." NEWEL G. MILLER, one of Miami County's substantial and enterprising citizens, was born in Fayette County, Indiana, February 28, 1834. ^^^^ parents, Richard and Amy (Cox) Mil- ler, were natives of North Carolina and Kentucky, respectively, and were born as follows: The father in the year 1802, and the mother in 1813. They were married in Fayette County, Indi- ana, and from thence, in 1839, moved to Miami County, March 11, 1861. His widow still survives, and resides at Paw-Paw, Indiana. Seven children were born to Richard and Amy Mil- ler's union, viz: Amanda M., Robert S., George B., James B., John C. Millard F., and Newel G. The subject came with his parents to this county in 1839, and has resided here ever since. He was married in ErieTownship, this county, May 22, 1854, to Mar- garet, daughter of William and Catharine (Lockridge) Ptomey. She was born in Henry County, Indiana, December 25, 1832. After marriage Mr. Miller settled ujion a part of the same farm on which 778 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. he now resides. He owns, at present, 280 acres of fine and well- improved land. He has had born to him five children, viz: Theo- dore (deceased), Amanda M., Marion F., Otto B. (deceased), and Florence E. (deceased). JOHN C. MILLER was born in Miami County, Indiana, May 8, 1840. His parents, Robert and Rebecca (Cox) Aliller, were both natives of Kentucky, and were born as follows: The father in Scott Countv, September 16, 1806, and the mother in Lewis Countv, March 11, 1804. Robert Miller was a son of John Miller, who was a native of South Carolina, where he married Margaret Miller, who was a native of Ireland. After their marriage they settled in North Carolina, and from thence in 1800 moved to Scott Count}-, Ken- tuckv, where thev resided until 1818, wTien they moved to Favette County, Indiana. They were the parents of thirteen children, viz: Nancy, Susan, Jane, Richard, John, Robert, Mary, Rebecca, Mahala, James, Alfred, Nathaniel and Eliza. Robert Miller and Rebecca Co.x were united in marriage at Connersville, Favette County, Indiana, July 22, 1828, and, in 1837, moved to Miami Countv, Indiana, settling in Richland Township, where he entered land, and where he resided until his death, which occurred August 29, 1884. His widow still survives and makes her home with her children. Ten children were born to this union, \iz: Henry C, Samuel C, liliza A., Sarah E., Mar}- F. (deceased), Richard K., John C, Mary F., James C. and Thomas C. John C, our subject, was married in Richland Township, this county, February 13, 1861, to Philena, daughter of Joseph and Delilah (Keeverj Burk; she was born June 6, 1839. After his marriage, Mr. Miller settled upon land in Richland Township, Section 21, a part of his father's old homestead, where he engaged in farming, and where he resided until the spring of 1864, at which time he removed to Peru, Ind., and engaged in the mercantile business. In the fall of 1866, he returned to Richland Township, and again engaged in farm- ing until 1871, when he removed to Peru for the purpose of educat- ing his family, carrying on farming in the meantime. In February. 1874, he again removed to Richland Township, and settled upon his present farm in Section 21. He owns at present 192 acres of fine and well improved land. Has had born to him three children, viz: Clarence G., born November 21, 1861, and died April 11, 1862; Nellie, born September 3, 1863, and Mary L., born July 2, 1865; also a boy whom he has raised from infancy — Charles Baker — born Ma\' 20, 1876. Mr. Miller and famih' are members of the M. E. Church. They are an intelligent famil}-, and are highly esteemed b\' all who know them. Mr. Miller is an enterprising man, and makes a specialty of raising and breeding short-horned cattle and fine stock. CALEB PETTY, an old and highly esteemed pioneer ol bio(;rahiiicai. sketches. 779 Miami County, is a native of Surrey County, Nortli Carolina. His parents, William and Mary ( Cogshell ) Petty, were both natives of the same State. William Petty was a son of Zachariah and Nancy Petty, who were amon\' what denomination. Re\s. Simons and Hooxer, ministers of the United Brethern Church, visited the settlements early in the forties, and held meetings in school houses and private residences. These meetings awoke considerable interest, and were the means of leading to the organization of a small societ\' about the \e<\r 1S46. This organization flourished apace, and among its nu'm- bers were early enrolled man}- of the first settlers of Washing- ton and Butler Townships. It is now known as the Grider Chapel. The earliest pastors were Revs. Mr. Simons, Eli Hoover, William Auit, and later, Eli Seithman and John Feller- hoff. In 1867 a frame house of worship, 30x40 feet in size, costing the sum of $900, was erected on land donated for the purpose bv John Grider, in Section 24, near the eastern boun- dar\- of the township. The churcli has been a potent factor for good in the communitv, and, though not so strong in numbers as formerlv, still has an active membership, composed of some of the best citizens of Washington and adjoining townships. The officers of the society at this time are: George Cline, Class Leader: David Crane, Steward: William York, David Crane and John Grider, Trustees. Rev. Mr. Groves is the pastor in charge. The Presbyterians organized a church in this township a num- ber of years ago, and erected a house of worship on what is known as the White farm. The organization was kept alive for some years, and at one time enjoyed a reasonable degree of prosperit\ . Owing to deaths, removals and other causes, it was finally disbanded. The German Baptists or Dunkards have a large and flourishing congregation in the extreme southern part of the township, the his- torv of which dates from about the year 1S66. It is the principal point on the Santa Fe Church district, which was formed b\- the division of the Pipe Creek district, in the above year. The early meetings were held at the residences and barns of the different mem- bers, by John E. Shively, Samuel Murrav, Godlove Keller and Abraham Shepler. When the division was made John E. Shi\elv was chosen Biship of the new district and preached with great acceptance until his death. John P. Wolf succeeded him as Bishop, and about the same time N. R. Bowman was elected preacher. The other preachers who ministered to the church from time to time, were P. T. Jenkins, Joseph Shepler and J. J. Fox, the last named being the oldest preacher in the district at this time. Shortl}' after the division took place the church decided to erect a house of worship; accordingly a plat of ground, near Pipe Creek, in Sec- tion 34, was donated by William Biggs, and before the close of 1866, a large and substantial frame building, 45x70 feet, was readv for occupancv. This is one of the largest church edifices 8o6 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. in Miami County, and will comfortably accommodate an audience of a thousand persons. The original membership of the congre- gation numbered about ii8. It is not so strong at this time, the present membership being about 76. Tlie following is the official status of the society at this, viz: First degree preachers, John S. Bohn and Morris Dillman; second degree, Jacob J. Fox and D. B. Wolf. Deacons, Jacob Ray, William Austine, Henry Aus- tine, George Cunningham and William Hostetler; Treasurer and Clerk, Henry Austine; Directors, Morris Dillman, Henry Austine and William Hostetler. The church has a meeting place at the viDage of Waupecong, Clay Township, where services are held at retrular intervals. There have been few manufacturing enterprises of any kind in Washington Township, owing to its close proximit}- to Peru and other manufacturing centers. Sometime in the latter part of the forties, a Mr. Blood built a saw-mill on Little Pipe Creek, near the central part of the township, which was in operation a number of years. It received its motive power from the waters of the creek, and was extensively patronized. The last owner was George Davis. A saw-mill was built on Big Pipe Creek, in Section 33, as early as 1848 or '49, byJohnFlagg. It passed through the hands of various parties, and ceased operations a number of \ears ago. Sylvester Kirk pat- rick was the last proprietor. There have been at different times, steam saw-mills in operation in the township, and the lumber business was formerly an important industry'. Several parties in the last few years have been engaged in the manufacture of drain tile, an enterprise which has proved quite remunerative. At this time there is a factorv for the manufacture of an improved picket wire fence, in successful operation on the Strawtown Pike, near the central part of the township, and a large jelly factory and h^-draulic cider press, operated on an extensive scale bv Mr. Moselv. The Cole Brewery in South Peru is one of the largest and most successful establishments of the kind in the State. The buildings are substan- tially constructed and supplied with the modern appliances for the manufacture of beer, and the capacity is excelled by that of few brewing establishments in the West. There are several burial places in Washington Township, one of the oldest of which is the Wickler graveyard, in Section 15. One of the first persons buried in this place was a child of Robert Love, which was carried to the grave on horseback, by Mr. Miller. Mr. Love, himself, was also buried here in an early day. The Rankin gra\evard, in Section 34, on the Bearss land, was con- secrated to the burial of the dead many years ago, and among the first persons laid to rest therein were Mrs. Harter and Caleb Adams. The Haws graveyard, near Pipe Creek, is an old bury- ing ground. The following were among the early interments: A BIOGRAIMIKAL SKICTCIIKS. 807 Mr. Haws, Mr. Larimer and the children of David Ilockman. " The first marriage in the township was that of Patrick Col- gan to Bridget Kennedy in 1841." To this couple was born a son, Lawrence, the following \ear, who was probabl\- the first white child born in the township. '• The first death is supposed to have been that of John Hunt, which occurred Februar\-, 1842." Abra- ham Bilheimer, who came to the country in an early day, was one of the first mechanics of the township. He settled on the Straw- town road, in Section 7, and worked at the cabinetmaker's trade during the early settlement of the coiuity. John Allen, who located near the southern boundar)- of the township, early, worked at the trade of wagon-making. A sad occurrence in the township was the death, many years ago, of Conrad Haws, killed by lightning. The onl}- town in Washington Township is South Peru, a suburb of the city of Peru lying just across the river from the latter. It has a population of a couple of hundred, the majority of whom find employment in the main city. Here is located the mammoth brew- ing establishment of Omer Cole, one of the largest and most suc- cessful enterprises of the kind in the State. There are, besides, several shops, a couple of saloons and a saw-mill in South Peru, but the history of the place is closelv identified with that of the city. BIOGKAPHICAIi SKETCHES. CHARLES L. ARMSTRONG was born December 14, 1833, in Highland County, Virginia, the only son of James and Mariah (Hiner) Armstrong, natives of Pennsylvania and Vir- ginia, respectivel}'. They emigrated to Miami County and settled at Peru in 1846. Charles L. jjvas reared on a farm, receiving a common school education. In 1858 he was married to Mary C. Leas, born in Preble County, C3hio, who died in 1870 or 1871. Three children were born to this union: Laura, Jesse and Claude. He was again united in marriage in April, 1874, to Mrs. R. A. Remine Vance, a native of Washington County, Virginia. He now owns land adjoining Peru, and his princijial business is dairy farming. His politics are Republican, and he affiliates with the Masonic Order. JOHN CLIFTON, Sr., a native of Montgomery County, Ohio, was born February 2, 1826. He is the fourth son of Henry and Rhoda (Nichols) Clifton, natives of Virginia, and of English and Dutch origin. They emigrated to "Ohio in 1808 or 1809. John Clifton was reared in Dayton, receiving an education at the common schools. When eighteen years of age he learned brick-making, and December 24, 1844. was united in 8o8 HISTORY OF MIAMI COUNTY. marriage with Miss Martha Addis, a native of Mississippi, but who was reared in Kentuck}'. To them these children were born: George, John and Amos. The}' located in Peru, Miami County, April, 1855. In 1862 he entered his country's service in the 29th Indiana Volunteers, and was mustered out in 1863. He now holds membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, and politically is a Republican. ISAAC CRANE, a native of Warren County, Ohio, was born near Lebanon, January 26, 181 1, the eldest son of Abner and Huldah (Robertson) Crane, natives of New York and Ohio. The subject was reared on a farm in his native County; came to Miami County in 1843, and located in Washington Township, having bought eighty acres of land in 1840, at five dollars per acre. He was married in 1862, to Miss Margaret J. (Logan) James, of Ohio. He owns eighty acres of land in Washington, and 120 in Claj- Township. He is an anti-mason and is opposed to absolute prohibition. When young he received a common school education, and in later years has been grasping for a knowledge of chemistry and natural philos- ophy. JOSEPH S. GORDON was born in Frederick County, Maryland, July 3, 1834, and is a son of John and Margaret (McClainj Gordon, natives of Maryland. Our subject received his early training on a farm in Maryland, and received a common school education. Came to Miami County in 1861, and located in Washington Township. In 1862 he entered the army in the Eighty-seventh Regiment of Indiana Infantr}-, and was mustered in, in 1865. He participated in the battles of Chickamaugua, Mis- sion Ridge and Atlanta. Was married on January 22, 1867, to Miss Anna M. Snider, of Burks County, Pennsylvania, a union blessed with the birth of two children — Charles Albert, born Janu- ary 26, 1870, and Howard O., born December 6, 1878. Mr. Gor- don owns eighty acres of land located five miles from Peru, which is well improved. He votes the Republican ticket. CHRISTOPHER C. HAUKS, a native of Germany, was born on the 20th day of April, 1848, and is the sixth son of Chris- topher and Margaret Hauks, natives of Germany. The parents came to Miami County in 1846, and located on a farm in Washing- ton Township. The father was born in 1801, and died in 1875. The mother died in 1846. Our subject was reared on a farm and now owns 113 acres of well improved land and is a practical farmer. In August, 1862, he volunteered his services to his country, and entered the service in the 87th Indiana Infantry, and with which he served until mustered out June 10, 1865. He was wounded at Chickamaugua, and returned to his farm in 1865. He was first mar- ried, September 4, 1866, to Miss Rhoda Jameson, of Jefferson Town- ship. Her death occurred February 4, 1880. To this union were BIOGRAPHICAL SKKTCMliS. 809 born six children, four of wliom are liviiiLj: Charles N., Maltie, Frank A. and Elmer E.; and John P. and an infant, deceased. He was again married, June 2, 1881, to Miss Ella Bell, a native of Jefferson Count\% Indiana. Mr. Ilauks is a Democrat. ALFRED!. JONES is a native of North Carolina, born June I, 1830. He is the eldest son of William M. and Eliza- beth (Wood) Jones, natives of South Carolina. They left North Carolina in the early part of 1833 and located in Rush County, where thev remained until 1852, and then came to Miami County. They now reside in Wabash Count}-. The subject was reared on the farm, and secured a fair education. He is the owner of 113 acres of land. He was married in the spring of 1853 to Miss Mar\- Jameson, a native of Kentucky, whose father came to Miami County in an earl}- day. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are parents of seven children, five of whom are living. Their names are : Martha, William H., Frances, Emma and Mary, living, and Amanda and an infant, deceased. WILLIAM McGREW, a native of Washmgton County, Maryland, was born the loth of April, 1813, and is the son of Henry and Sarah (Huckwell) McGrew, both natives of Maryland. They emigrated to Montgomery County in 1819. The mother died in 1820, and the father in 1852. William McGrew received his early training on a farm in Montgomer}' County, Ohio. On the 4th of April, 1838, he was married to Miss Sophia Cramer, who was born in Huntington County, Pennsylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. McGrew were born eight children, four of whom are living, viz: Francis, Henry, William II. and Uraniah. Mr. McCirew has nineteen grand- children and two great-grand-children. Mr. McGrew possesses eight}- acres of land in Washington Township, where he located in 1852. He is a member of the First Presbyterian Church at Peru, a Royal Arch Mason, and a Democrat. JOHN A. MELCHER was born in Germany, May i, 1845, and is a son of John A. Melcher, who emigrated to Cleveland in 1846. The subject was reared and educated there in the com- mon schools, and afterwards entered a college at that place, and in 1865, came to Peru, where he engaged in cigar-making. He ran a factory at Michigan City for about two years. In 1880, he started a saloon and billiard hall. In November, 1867, he was married to Miss Liddie J. Holman, daughter of Solomon Hol- man, an old settler of Miami Count}-. This union was blessed with the birth of six children, whose names are, Sol. A., Author E., Willie, Emma, Lottie and Jessie. Mr. M. is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is also a staunch Republican. ORLANDO MOSELEY, a native of Washington Township, born April 8, 1851, and is the youngest of seven sons born to Eben SlO HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. and Mariah ( Bush ) Moseley, natives respectively of Connecticut and New York. Eben Moseley. the father, came to Miami Countv about 1844, and followed the occupation of a farmer. He was born in 1799 and died in 1876. The mother is still living. Our subject was reared on the farm, and no\\' owns 160 acres of well- improved land in Washington l\)wnship. Was married April 7. 1872, to Miss Sarah Bohn, daughter of John Bohn (deceased), of Washington Township. Mr. and Mrs. Moselev are the parents of two children — John and Ida. Mr. Moseley is engaged in the manu- facture of the " Excelsior " fencing machine, the patent for which is applied for. Mr. Moseley is a Republican, and is identified with the Masonic fraternitv . FREDERICK RADEL, a native of Germany, was born May 15, 1815. He came direct from the place of his birth to Peru, Indiana, in 1846. where he located and worked % a warehouse for about eight vears. He is a shoemaker h\ trade. In the year 1862 he located on a farm of eighty acres, in Wash- ington Township. In October, 1837, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Beck, of Germany, to which union six children have been born, viz: Elizabeth Tracy (deceased), Frank, Adam, Fred, Frances and Peter. His wife died in No\ember, 1877. He and family are members of the Catholic Church, and are strong believers of that faith. In political affairs he adheres to the teachings of the Democratic part^•. JONAH SULLIVAN is a native of Mason County Kentucky, born June 30, 1817, the third son of Lewis and Elizabeth (^Bennett) Sullivan, also natives of Kentucky, and whose, ancestors were Irish and German, respectively. At the age of seventeen our subject left his native State for Fayette County, Ohio, in companv with his mother, his father having died in 1820. They located on a farm, he receiving a fair common school education. They remained in Ohio until 1841, and then came to Peru, having purchased land in Miami Couniy in 1840. He now owns 340 acres in Miami and Wabash Counties. He was married in July. 1841, to Miss Louisa Smith, of Ohio, to which union six children were born: W^illiam. Sarah E., James L., George and Lyman B. This wife died in 1862, and in 1863. he was again married to Lizzie A. Co.x, a native of Ohio, to whom one child was born, named John M. Mr. Sulli- van and wife are members of the Baptist Church, and politically he is a Republican. WILLIAM A. SUTTON, a native of Champaign County, Ohio, was born on the 14th day of February, 1843, the second son of John D. and Mary (Long) Sutton, of Westmoreland County, Virginia, who went to Pennsylvania in 1847, and came to Miami County, Indiana, in 1848, and established themselves on a farm where the subject grew to manhood. In 1861 he answered to the BIOGRAPIIICAI. SKETCHES. 8l I country's lirsl call for voluntours and t-ntereci the 13th Indiana Reijiment. He was mustered out in four years and six months — in the fall of 1865. Was wounded in the lejjj at the battle of Bull Run. In 1867 he and Miss Rebecca Kesler, daughter of Joseph and Nancv Kesler. were married, which marriatre has been blessed by the birth of six children, viz: Minnie M., Charles II., David, Ursula, Edith and John. Was elected to the oflice of County Cor- oner in 1876 on the Republican ticket, but did not make out a bond. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and Masonic fraternitv, and in politics votes the Republican ticket. ALEXANDER B. WICKLER was born in Washington Township, January 7, 185 1, and is the youngest son of Peter and Barbara (Keller) Wickler, of Germany, who came from Ohio to this township about 1838, and \\ ere among the early settlers. Our subject received his primary instructions in life while living on a farm, and received a common school education. He is now the possessor of 320 acres of fine farming land which he has placed under a high state of cultivation. In September, 1875, he married Miss Rebecca A. Ford, of Ohio, and to them have been born three children, viz: Ora, Georgia and Mary. In political matters he advocates the Republican doctrine, and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. AZRO WILKINSON is a native of Allen Township, Miami County, Indiana, and was born January 20, 1856, the youngest son of Anderson and Martha (Bond) Wilkinson, natixes of Ohio and Kentucky, respectively. The father located in Miami Countv, in 1836, and is now living in Allen Township. Our subject received a common school education, and until he reached the age of twentx- one worked on the farm. He then engaged in the mercantile busi- ness with 0\is Case, at Macv, in 1879, and continued until 1884. Two years previous to 1879 he was railroad agent at Macy. In 1883, while in business, he came to Peru, and was Deputy County Treasurer under E. Humrickhouse, deceased, and also occupied the same position under J. C. Clvmer. United with Miss Ella Lam- bert in marriage, November 20, 1S79, to whom were born three children : Josephine, Glenn A. and Constance. Belongs to the Masonic and I. O. O. F. Fraternities, having represented the local Odd Fellows' Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State on two occa- sions. In matters ]iolitical he is Democratic. GEORGE W. WILSON came to Miami County in 1834 from Cass County, where he was born August 16, 1832. He was the second son born to Alexander and Matilda (Thorp) Wilson, respective nati\es of Indiana and Maine, and who were of Scottish descendancv. The father located in Pennsylvania in 1834, '1"*^ "'"^^ engaged in the mercantile business. Had repre- sented his county in the Legislature several years ago. He was a sutler in the Mexican war, having gone out in 1846, and was 8l2 HISTORY OK MIAMI COUNTY. killed three days after peace was declared. Our subject wa.s reared in Peru, where he received a common school education. His vocation has been farmin