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MAD RIVER TOWNSHIP.
JOSEPH ANDERSON, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The father of Mr. Anderson emigrated to this county in 1825; his name was John, and he was born in Page Co., Va.; his wife's maiden name was Nancy Lower; they were married in Virginia, and their bridal tour was taken, Mrs. Anderson riding a horse and John walking by its side, until their arrival in Clark Co., in 1825; their beginning in life was one of the hardest; having no money, they were obliged to shift as best they could; John frequently worked for 12 1/2 cents per day ; this manner of living was continued for eight years, when they concluded to look for a better location; he had saved a small sum during this time, and, being of an energetic sort, he determined to have a home , his little cash was invested as part payment for 160 acres of land, upon which was a little cabin, with perhaps an acre cleared; the first work was in building a comfortable log house, after which, clearing up the land was continued, until a large portion was, in a few years, under cultivation; children grew up around them, and the eldest were able to aid very much in the work; Maria and William were born in Clark Co.; Betsy, James, Albert, Joseph, Mary, Angeline, Susan and Louisa. were born on the farm now owned by Joseph, our subject; eight of these children are living. Prosperity seemed to dawn on John and his wife from the date of their coming to this county; their stock throve wonderfully, and their crops were good, and he was always ready to meet the payments on his land as they came due; his energy was remarkable, and his success was such that, at one time, he owned 1,500 acres of land, and was possessor of 360 acres at the time of his death, which occurred in 1877; his widow resides in Urbana. Mr. Anderson dealt largely in stock, and made much of his wealth in this way; he served, during the war of 1812, fourteen months; we are not able to state under whose command. Joseph was married to Mary Overhulser in 1865; they have, by their marriage, three children-Annie, Harvey A. and Charles; by his first wife, he was the father of Isaac, Erastus, George, Wiley, Jasper and Elmer; Mary and Elizabeth are not living. Mr. Anderson purchased the old home farm in 1877, and is very comfortably situated, hav-
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ing a productive farm, and is one of our enterprising men ; his wife also represents a family who were pioneers of Ohio, but they died during her girlhood. Mr. Anderson devotes his time to agricultural pursuits, the rearing of stock, etc.; he owns 190 acres of land, on which are several of the finest springs in the township; he is a Republican of the substantial sort-a rarity among residents of this township.
SIMON BAKER, Terre Haute. Simon Baker was born Nov. 17, 1791, in Frederick, Md., and emigrated with his parents, Elizabeth and Peter Baker; to Virginia; in 1796; in 1816, they again moved, this time to Champaign Co., and entered land in 1816, President James Monroe's signature being affixed to their patent; their children, Frederick, Simon and Peter, were born in Maryland; Rebecca, Betsey, Polly, John and Jacob were born in Virginia; six of these are still living. Mr. Baker can lay just claim to being the oldest man in the county, and is now 89 years of age; he has seen the entire development of this country from its infancy, and the most sanguine dreams of his youth are more than realized; he has seen the heavy forests that were inhabited by the wild deer and Indian, disappear, and in their stead stand fields of waving grain; the little frontier towns have grown to be prosperous cities, and the log cabins have given way to the aristocratic farm residence. His parents were among the most industrious pioneers, and left their children a legacy of honor and uprightness; they have long since passed away, and their representatives take their places. Simon was married to Catharine Darnell in 1823 ; they were parents of eleven children, all of whom were reared except two. He now resides on the old home, that wag cleared by his own labor, and rendered doubly dear by the birth of his children and the death of his wife; be worked by the month for money to pay for his land, and is now owner of 100 acres; his son Nathan takes care of the farm, and Mr. Baker makes his home with them. He was always noted for his honor and fair dealing with his fellow-men, and will leave behind a name of which his children should ever feel proud.
JAMES H. BAKER, manufacturer of wagons and job-work, Westville. This gentleman stands foremost among the mechanics of Westville, having the most extensive manufactory in the township, and makes a large number of road wagons. The shop employs six skilled workmen, and their goods find a ready sale. Mr. Baker has been engaged in business in Westville ten years. When be came here in 1870, from Shenandoah Co., Va., he had no capital, and Allen Loudenback, Thomas Chance and Elias Stover purchased a lot and built a small shop, in which was one fire. Mr. Baker at once commenced blacksmithing and succeeded well. By honesty, energy and perseverance he gained a large trade, and, his reputation as a workman being second to none, he soon found his quarters too small, and purchased the lot on which his manufactory now stands. Soon a commodious building was erected and suitable machinery procured for the purpose of doing the woodwork for wagons. The experiment is proving a decided success, and the capacity for doing business will be a source of profit to the proprietor. All the planing, sawing and turning is done by steam ; the engine is a sixteen-horse-power. Mr. Baker has a large local trade in axes and steel-work, and now manufactures them at his establishment.. His reputation for this class of goods is excellent. He enlisted in the Confederate army soon after the commencement of the war, and served faithfully for the cause he espoused ; his Southern blood was fired with the enthusiasm that seemed to pervade the first families of Virginia as well as the extreme South, and they did battle for the cause they loved. He was in the battles of Winchester, Brandy Station, Culpeper Court House, Gettysburg, and Hagerstown, besides many other hot skirmishes, the names of which places have been forgotten. He enlisted in the 7th Va. V. C., under Col. Ashby, and was wounded with a saber twice during the war; he was also twice taken prisoner and confined at Camp Chase and at Fort Delaware, from which place he was discharged at the close of the war. He was married to Miss Eliza F. Little, of Virginia, in 1867. They have been parents of eight children, of whom five survive-Lura V , Bertha M., Eliza C., Josephine, and Essie, the survivor of twins. Mr. Baker is President of the township School Board and Clerk of
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the Local Board of Directors. He is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, and both himself, wife and eldest daughter are members of the Universalist Church. The family are a great acquisition to the society of Westville, and the enterprise and integrity of Mr. Baker will do much to further the business interests of the place.
SIMON BEERY. manufacturer and farmer : P. O. Urbana. Should we tail to mention Mr. Beery in connection with the prominent men of this township, great injustice would be done. Many who are not pioneers, furnish the intellect and capital to further the enterprises that have been conceived and put into successful operation since the country was first settled by those energetic pioneers, whose names we revere, and who will have ample justice done them in the perpetuation of their names in the history of this county. The father of Simon, George Beery, came to Fairfield Co., Ohio, in 1801. He was a native of Rockingham Co., Va., and his marriage to Miss Catharine Cradlebaugh was celebrated in 1809. She was a woman of more than ordinary force of character, positive in her opinions, and free to express them; loving right and hating wrong, prompt and active in every duty, a mother of the old type in every sense of the word. Simon Beery (our subject) is of Revolutionary stock on his mother's side. Her father, John Cradelbaugh, was born in Germany, belonging to one of the aristocratic and highly educated families of that country. He war educated by an uncle, and was to have been his heir, but, hearing of the struggle made by the American people to gain their independence, and fired by the enthusiasm of youth, and imbued with feelings of sympathy for the oppressed, he left his home and all that could be desired by way of position, and came to America and enlisted under the American flag. He was in several hard-fought battles, in one of which he was taken prisoner by the British troops, and confined in a prison near Baltimore. Of forty-three men taken prisoner at the same time, only himself and one other escaped. After independence was declared and the war at an end, he settled in Fayette Co., Penn., and there married a Miss Moonschauer, and afterward emigrated to Fairfield Co. Being so highly educated (speaking five languages fluently), and conceiving it to be his duty, he entered the ministry, in which he remained until his death. His daughter, Catharine, the mother of our subject, was born in Pennsylvania in 1785, and her parents emigrated to Fairfield Co. in 1806 or 1807. Her marriage to George Beery is previously spoken of, and they were parents of twelve children-Samuel, John, Dinah, Joseph, Mary, Anthony and Isaac (twins), George, Simon, Noah, Solomon and Thomas Ewing; nine survive. Mrs. Beery died in 1870, her husband in 1856. He was pressed into service during the war of 1812, and did duty as a teamster, which was a very hazardous business. In 1834, he laid out the town of Bremen, in which Simon Beery did business for many years, being the successor of his father and brothers who had carried on the mercantile business so long at that place. Our subject came to this county in 1867, and located upon the farm which is now one of the most productive and upon which more taste is displayed than presented by any farm residence in the county. Neither is there a residence equaling this in any town in the county. The barns and outbuildings are in harmony with the substantial character of everything belonging to the farm. Mr. Beery prides himself upon his practical farming, having reclaimed what was considered a worn-out farm, until the products averaged one-fourth more than any in the neighborhood. He has made the improvements excepting the house since arriving, and this suburban residence is the abode of a family among whom harmony and prosperity reign. Mr. Beery was wedded to Mary M. Grove, March 5, 1846. Their children are six in number-Samuel E., Angeline, Ann C., George, Marietta and Perry G. The eldest and youngest sons are engaged in the mercantile business at Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Beery makes no assumption of being anything but what he really is, a plain, practical man, loving right and hating wrong, and ever sympathizing with the poor and oppressed.
LEROY L. BLOSE, farmer; P. O. Westville. The grandfather of our subject, John Blose, was a native of Virginia, and emigrated to this township in 1815, when the heavy timber covered what are now our beautiful fields. He was married previous to
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his coming, to Amelia Pence, and they were afterward parents of seven children-Daniel, Lewis, Susan, John, Louisa, Henry and Margaret. He settled three miles south of Westville, where he continued to reside until his death. He cleared off and otherwise improved this land, and made it one of the most desirable farms in the Mad River Valley. Three of his children still survive John, Louisa and Margaret. John is the husband of Delilah Strickler, Louisa is the wife of Isaac Funkhouser, and Margaret is the widow of Charley Brown. Daniel, the father oŁ Leroy, was married to Miss Louisa Colbert, and by her has had eight children, four of whom are not living-Leroy, the eldest, James I., Easily T. and Daniel W. all reside in the county. Mr. Blose was married previously to Eva Pence; they had four children, two, John H. and Enos are living. Daniel was a very energetic man, and from a capital of $50, amassed by his own energy a large fortune. He owned and operated two distilleries, had an interest in an elevator at Urbana, and raised a large amount of stock. He also owned a large number of shares in an oil well in Pennsylvania, but this was a non-paying investment. When his death occurred May 25, 1871, he was owner of 1,200 acres of valuable land. Which left his children amply provided for. Leroy married Miss Marietta Beery, a daughter of one of our most substantial men. Leroy and his wife are parents of one child-Nellie H. He has the old home farm, and is considered one of our most prosperous young farmers, endowed with the good business characteristics of his father, and in every way worthy of representing him m this work.
JOSEPH BROWN, farmer, P. O. Terre Haute. This gentleman is one of the pioneers of this county. The older men have to represent their ancestors who are gone, but who have left their record behind in this beautiful land, which is the pride of Ohio. Their work has been well done, and their graves are hallowed by the memory of both old-and young. The father of Joseph (John Brown) was born in Virginia; his wife (Margaret Davis) was one of the girls that helped decorate Trenton bridge, over which Washington and his army passed after the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, at Yorktown. She remembered Gen. Washington well, and the scenes of the Revolutionary war. Her father was Revolutionary soldier, and fought bravely through the struggle for liberty, never receiving a wound. She was born in New Jersey in 1777. Her parents came to this county in 1806, and settled near where Mr. Brown now lives, where the timber was so thick that the sun's rays could hardly reach the ground. Mr. Davis felled enough timber to build him a cabin, after which they felt pretty well "fixed up." The Browns were neighbors to them, and John settled on the land, and built the first cabin, almost on the spot where Joseph now lives. Two of the Davis boys went into the woods one day, and took the gun along, thinking to get some game while they looked for the horses. They were both small, and as they walked along a bear and two cubs were seen. Fearing to shoot, lest the old one should only be wounded, and afterward pursue them, the eldest boy (Andrew) waited, but finally took aim and fired. Taking his younger brother by the h hand they ran to the house, and told their father that they had shot at a bear. The party set out to look after the success of the shot, and. sure enough, the bear lay dead, and the cub., had gone away. Many reminiscences might be given illustrating the wild character of the country, but this will suffice. Deer were plenty, and furnished many a savory meal to the pioneers. Joseph did his share of work when a lad. He was born in 1824, and has lived all his life within thirty feet of his birthplace. He was married, in 1845, to Miss Mary Bridgeman, and they were parents of one child-Alcia Isabel. She was born in 1850, and was married to John H. Stevens in 1870. She was the mother of one child, and they now lie side by side in the quiet cemetery, where the gentle winds sing their sad requiems over the loved ones who were the joy of their parents' home. Mr. Brown is one of our prosperous farmers, and enjoys the confidence of his neighbors, and is well worthy to bear the name of his father. For twenty-five consecutive years Mr. Brown has run a thresher. At one time he worked continuously, day and night, for 150 hours, never sleeping during the time. This was done in a sawmill, and well shows the pluck and endurance of our pioneers.
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NATHAN BROWN, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. The parents of Nathan came to this county from Virginia in 1807; their names were John and Margaret Brown. She was a daughter of Andrew and Sarah Davis, who came to this county about the same time the Browns did, and settled where Eli Allen now lives. The Brown family settled on the farm now owned by Nathan and Joseph Brown. The first cabin built in this part of the township was erected where William Kessler now lives, and is still standing. This house was headquarters for seven families who had come to this county seeking a home in the new Northwest. The nearest cabin was five miles distant, and the woods were still the home of the Indians and wild animals. There was no trace of a settlement when they came, and the first pioneers in this part of the township were the Brown, Davis, Blue, Kelly, Kane and Grafton families. They all came to this neighborhood about the same time. Many were the pranks the youngsters used to play on each other, but all was taken in good humor, and the " apple cuttings," corn huskings, and other festivities were made the scene of much merriment. When the girls went to church, they all went barefoot until near the church, when the shoes were put on and worn until after services, when they again took them off and carried them home. Economy was the order of the day, and, in those days of wooden chimneys and puncheon floors, they left pride entirely out of the question. The parents of Nathan had eight children, of whom only four are living-Joseph, Nathan (our subject), Andrew and Loruhama. She was born in 1811, and was never married. Nathan, was married to Hannah Nitchman in 1854; they have had twelve children, six of whom are living-Charles, Margaret, John, Rachel, Emmett and Ida. All the sons are engaged in farming and are doing well. Their father is one of our prosperous men, and his wife is one of the most genial ladies that we have met. His sister, Lorubama, makes her home with them, and the family are well cared for. Nathan is a conscientious Republican. The table of the pioneers was a puncheon slab, laid upon two stumps. One time Mrs. Brown had baked a lot of peach pies, for a "raising," to be done that day. While her back was turned an old mullet' cow came up and finished the pies, and the boys who were working were rather short on their rations. So many inconveniences were they subject to that we cannot name them all, but their labors were not in vain, and the country that was cleared by them, and their noble lives, shall ever be a matter of history.
PARKER BRYAN, farmer and miller; P. O. Urbana We take pleasure in writing the biography of this gentleman, who has so long been a resident of Champaign County, and reminiscences gleaned from him are reliable. He is at this time 59 years of age, having been born April 21, 1821, and has lived in this county since his birth. His father, Levi Bryan, was a native of Virginia, and came here in 1812. He purchased the southeast quarter of Section 35, in Urbana Township, of a Mr. Olivar, who had previously entered it. He had no means at his disposal when he first came to this county, but worked by the day, and, although wages were small, contrived to save money enough to buy the tract above named, which was largely added to until he was, at the time of his death, the owner of 670 acres. He married Rachel Powell, and they had eight children, four dying in infancy. The survivors all live in this county-Mary A., the wife of Gabriel Kenton ; Parker (our subject), John H. wedded Elizabeth Grove, and Rachel E., who married T. I. Oroark. Levi Bryan devoted his time to improving his land, and dealing in stock, and of course did much in this way to help develop the country, which was almost a wilderness. His death occurred in 1852, and his wife's in 1859. When Parker, our subject, was 15 years of age, he commenced dealing in stock on a small scale; as he grew in years he engaged in other business, and when he was 21 years of age, by his own efforts, he was possessor of $1,750. In 1852, be was married to Rachel A. Grove; subsequently, in connection with his brother John and others, a tannery in Urbana, and a distillery and mill in Clark County was carried on. In 1856, Parker purchased his present farm, upon which was built the first distillery in the county, owned by David Kite. It was a small structure built of logs, the product. of which hardly sufficed for home consumption. Farmers carried in their jugs, to which
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was attached a card bearing their name and the number of their order. Frequently they would have to wait a week to have it filled. Mr. Bryan now carries on the milling business in connection with his farm, and does custom work. This is of great convenience to farmers. Since his earliest recollection, a mill has occupied the present site, the first being built of logs. Mr. and Mrs. Bryan have five children living-Levi, Mary E., Emma V., John H. and Frank G.; the three eldest are married, The farm now owned by Mr. Bryan is one of the finest tracts in the Mad River Valley ; it is especially well adapted for grazing, and is very desirable. He has cheerfully aided in the giving of facts connected with the early history of the township, and is withal one of the most cordial gentlemen we have met. His grandfather, John Bryan, came from England as a British soldier during the Revolutionary war. His native country was Ireland, and his wife was a native of Wales, whose maiden name was Parker.
ISAAC BULL, farmer; P. O. Urbana. Mr. Bull has lived in this township during the last quarter of a century, and of course, in his acquaintanceship with the old settlers, can relate many personal reminiscences of events happening during the early settlement of this county. Many of the people living here are natives of Virginia, in which State Mr. Bull was born, in Rockingham County, July 14, 1818. His father was a soldier in the war of 1812. He left Virginia in 1855 and moved to Franklin Co., Ind.; here both himself and wife died. Isaac came to Urbana in 1853, and in 1859 he was married to Miss Mary Hess, by whom he had two sons and one daughter -Benjamin F., Elmore H. and Elizabeth A. Benjamin went to Virginia City, Idaho, in 1864, in company with twenty-four men from Springfield, Ohio ; all returned except three, and all are living except Benjamin, who died in Helena City, Sept. 11, 1878. He had accumulated quite a fortune. Elmore is now in Denver, Col., and Elizabeth ' married E. F. Fleming ; they reside in Chicago. Mrs. Bull died Jan. 19, 1855, and Mr. Bull was married to Miss Jane, daughter of Joseph Pence, Oct. 1, 1868. They have two children-Joseph T. and Charles E. L. They reside on a part of the estate of Joseph Pence, six miles southwest of Urbana. Mr. Bull is a practical farmer and an energetic business man. Joseph is attending Buchtel College, and intends graduating at that institution. Isaac is a stanch Democrat and never misses an election; he has been for nine consecutive years Assessor of this township, and has for many years been a prominent auctioneer in the county, and is a dealer in stock. There are 236 acres all under fence, which brings in a nice income. The farm is a splendid one in the Mad River Valley, and is managed entirely by Mr. Bull. He is a genial gentleman, and we are under obligations to him for favors. Since his coming, there have been changes in every family between Fremont and Westville, by reason of death, change of residence or other causes.
UHLICH G. BURKE, farmer; P. O. Westville. Mr. Burke, although not a native of Ohio, is entitled to a representation in the biographical department of this history, as his wife is the daughter of one of our oldest and most influential families. From her father, David Pence, much information has been obtained that forms a part of this history, and a sketch of his family, together with personal reminiscences of early times, will appear in another part of the work. Mr. Burke is a native of Indiana, and was born in 1844. He was principally engaged in farming in that State, and also in Ohio. His marriage to Miss Amanda, daughter of David and Priscilla Pence, was celebrated at the home of the bride's parents, Dec. 23, 1868. The parents of Mrs. Burke, wishing their children to be near them, prevailed upon Mr. Burke to settle upon the " Pence homestead." The residence now occupied by Mr. Burke is a neat two story frame, erected in 1879. The farm is comprised of 123 1/2 acres, one mile from Westville, and is highly improved. Mr. and Mrs. Burke were parents of three children- Viola, dying in infancy; Clement P. and Orin T. are living. Mr. Burke is a quiet, unassuming man, whose opinions are not given hastily, but are in the main correct. Both himself and wife are members of the Nettle Creek Baptist Church, as were their parents before them. He is one of our practical framers, and the neatness of his farm betokens
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industry and economy. Mrs. Burke was born Oct. 6, 1847 ; Clement. Burke Sept. 28, 1869; Orin T. July 24, 1872.
JOHN BUSHONG, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. We are pleased to notice such men as the one whose name heads this sketch, as he is every way worthy to be represented in the history of the county in which he has resided during the past thirty years. As a man of correct habits, he is without a peer; and, as a gentleman, suffice it to say that Old Virginia blood flows in his veins, and his reputation among those that know him is of the highest order. His parents, Peter and Elizabeth (Fatick) Bushong, were married, probably, in 1814. Peter was born in Virginia, and Elizabeth in Pennsylvania. Peter was engaged in farming in Virginia, coming West and settling in Indiana in 1859. His death occurred in 1867. He was a prosperous man, making a good living, but accumulating slowly. His wife, Elizabeth, died in Virginia, in 1855. Their children were eight in number-Lvdia, John, Catharine, Philip, Mary, Andrew, Hannah and Elizabeth ; all are living in Indiana except John, our subject. He came to Ohio in 1847. He was married in Virginia to Miss Sarah Dingledine ; their two eldest children-Mary and Catharine-were born in Virginia; Hannah, Martha, James and John were born in this county; Mary is the wife of John Davis; Hannah married William Michael, and Martha wedded Josiah Smiley. The children all live near or with them, and the family circle is unbroken. The first settlement of Mr. Bushong was on tire farm now owned by Samuel Dibert, but was previously owned by his wir'e's father, Philip Dingledine. Mr. Bushong has made the most of his money by hard labor and good management. His present home is an elegant farm of 248 acres in one tract, and is one of the most home-like places we have seen; a comfortable, neatly furnished house, splendid barns and outbuildings, a happy family and well-stocked larder serve to make life enjoyable in the highest degree. His record is such that his children may point to it with pride, and they may well profit by his experience. Himself and wife have been members of the Lutheran Church for more than a quarter of a century.
CAPT. TANDY S. COLLINS, farmer; P. O. Tremont City, Clark Co.; is the son of Jerome B. and Jane S. (Burruss) Collins, of Orange Co., Va.; Jerome B. Collins was the son of Francis and Margaret (De Horner) Collins; Francis Collins was the sort of James and Mary (Kirtley) Collins; Jane S. Burruss was the daughter of Capt. William Tandy and Martha (Slaughter) Burruss, of Revolutionary fame; William T. Burruss was the son of William and Frances Tandy Burruss, they being of Huguenot origin ; the Slaughters are of English origin, and were among the first settlers of Jamestown, Virginia. The subject of this sketch was born on Cherry Grove Farm, Orange Co., Va., Oct. 12, 1832, remaining at home with his parents until his 18th year, working upon the farm and at the carpenter's trade, and attending school during the winter. In 1850, he went to the Shenandoah Valley, where he lived three years, at which time he came to Ohio; Jan. l, 1854, he landed in Urbana, with good health, and $6 in his pocket, at which place he continued carpentering and running an engine. until Dec. 13, 1855, when he was united in marriage with Mary Catharine, daughter of David and Mary (Evers) Hawes, natives of Rockingbam Co., Va., who emigrated to this county in October, 1853. Feb. 22, 1856, he moved upon a farm in Concord Township, where he lived until March 4, 1860, when he moved upon Sec. 7, where he has lived since that time, working; upon his farm. By this union they were blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters, two now living, viz.: James F., born Jan. 15, 1860; Ida C., born Oct. 5, 1861. Mary C. Hawes was born in Rockingham Co., Va., Oct. 27, 1338; Mary C. (Hawes) Collins died Oct. 27, 1861, he remaining a widower until Sept. 2, 186'3, when he was united in marriage with Sarah Jane, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Yarnal) Kizer, whose biography appears in this book; by this union they were blessed with five sons, four now living, viz.: Charles Kizer Collins, born Feb. 6, 1864; John Price Collins, born March 29, 1866 ; Wilbur Tandy Collins, born Dec. 28, 1867; Irvin Slater Collins, born Sept. 13, 1870; Eddie Milton Collins, born March 16, 1873, died March 18. 1873; Sarah J. (Kizer) Collins
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was born March 28, 1813. They are both acceptable members of the Regular Baptist Church. He has held a number of positions of honor, with credit to himself and his fellow-men. Mr. and Mrs. Collins have, through their indomitable perseverance, strict and honorable business habits, secured for themselves and their children a beautiful home, where they enjoy the highest respect and esteem of their neighbors and many friends.
HOWARD W. CONRAD, farmer and plasterer; P. O. Terre Haute. Mr. Con-rad is an enterprising man, to whom we are pleased to give a place in the history of Champaign Co.; his native State is Pennsylvania; he was born in Gettysburg in 1838, and emigrated to this county in 1858; he is a plasterer by trade, and, when he came to this township, he had no money-was without a cent, away from home, among strangers; yet, notwithstanding all this, he went to work with an earnestness that soon found him friends, and to-day he ranks among our prosperous men. He worked ten years at his trade, saving each year $100, which was judiciously invested in land. During this time, he became engaged to and married Miss Amelia J., a daughter of William and Susannah Lee ; the marriage was celebrated in 1861 ; housekeeping was commenced in a cabin on Mr. Lee's farm, and they afterward moved to the house now occupied by them. They have six children-William A., Firman 0., Charles V., Arta A., Allie G. and Jacob A. Mr. Conrad still works occasionally at his trade, but turns his attention mostly to agriculture; three years ago, he purchased the "Sell farm," one of the first farms opened in this neighborhood; it was entered by Mr. Bell in 1813; he had no neighbors near at that time, and, hearing a rooster crow one morning, started to find what afterward proved to be a new-comer by the name of Davis; blazing the trees with his ax as he walked, this family was found a quarter west of what is now Terre Haute ; the distance was fully two miles, and neighbors were welcome. We know of no young man who has, in the same period, accumulated more property by his own exertions than Mr. Conrad, and his children should ever feel a just pride in the excellent business qualifications of their parents, backed by honor and integrity, which none possess more fully. He has, for a number of years, been connected, in an official capacity, with the public schools, and has served the public well ; he ranks to-day among the intelligent men of his neighborhood, and enjoys the confidence of all who know him.
CALVIN COOK, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. Lewis Cook was a native of Vermont, and lived in that State until he was 21 years of age, at which time he went to Western New York, and there married Annie Peck, a native of that State; her parents, accompanied by Lewis and his wife, started for Ohio on a flatboat down the Ohio River; they passed Cincinnati and stopped at North Bend, fifteen miles below; here Lewis engaged with Gen. Harrison to work his farm, and continued in his employ four years; he then, in company with his brother-in-law, Ethmore Warren, came to this county and entered the quarter-section where Mr. Cook now lives; they all came to this neighborhood about 1817, and, in 1823 or 18'24, the Peck family moved to Lake Co. Lewis Cook's wife died in 1823, leaving five children-Percy, William, Jane, Calvin and Melinda; in 1825. Lewis again married Boadicea Fay ; they were parents of Clarissa, Louisa and Lewis; she died in 1830 or 1831, and Lewis was again married, in 1833, to Mrs. Mary Hartwell ; they had no children. Of the whole number of children, only Percy, Louisa and Calvin are living. He was reared on the farm upon which be was born and still lives. He married Miss Elizabeth Hupp in 1842; she was a native of Virginia, and was born in that State April 23, 1819, and Calvin, April 1'2, of the same year; he purchased the 80-acre tract of his father, who went to Hancock Co., Ill., where his son William was living, and died there a few months later. Calvin and his wife were parents of eleven children, of whom Amanda, William, Raper, Lewis, Wesley, George, Mary and Samuel are living; all but two are married, and live in this neighborhood. Mr. Cook has traveled extensively through Kansas, Iowa, Illinois and Indiana, but still remains true to his old home in Champaign Co.; he has been one of our most successful farmer;. and owns a large tract of land, which has been accumulated
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by his own industry; he is a man noted for his correct business habits, and to his children will leave a patrimony of which they may well be proud-a name unsullied by fraud, which has never beep brought into disrepute. He is still actively engaged in farming, and enjoys the confidence of all who know him.
HENRY FOLTZ, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. The parents of Henry Foltz, David and Christina Foltz, were natives of Shenandoah Co., Va., and came first to Clark Co. in 1835. They have three children living that were born in Virginia-Martha, Sarah and Nathaniel ; Henry was born in Clark Co. David Foltz was a tailor by occupation, and worked at his business in Virginia previous to his removal, and subsequently carried on the business. He came to Mad River Township in 1848, where he had previously purchased a farm, and has principally engaged in agriculture since living here. His children are all living near him except Martha, who wedded Noah Zerkle ; they reside in Clay Co., Ill. Sarah married Elias Neese. Nathaniel is the husband of Sarah C. Leonard, and Henry married Sarah A. Zerkle ; they reside on the home farm with the old people, and the farm is managed by the two sons. All the children have . married into the old families of the township, most of whom are represented in the history of this county. Henry and his wife are parents of Hester Alma, Emory Harlan and Charles Anson. The boys are bright little fellows, and give promise of much intelligence ; Heater will soon complete her studies. The farm has been cleared since Mr. Foltz came, and the substantial improvements have been made by him. His sons have been of much service, and are now reaping their reward. They are substantial men, and enjoy the confidence of the community in which they reside. They are ardent Democrats, and are strong advocates of the party principles. They are all members of the Lutheran Church, and are prominent in the furtherance of every good work.
HENRY GIDEON, retired. Henry Gideon lived a number of years in Mad River Township, but for many years has resided in Iowa. He was a native of Loudoun Co., Va. ; was born in 1796, and came to this county in 18'32, being soon after married to Miss Nancy, daughter of Valentine and Sarah (Conrad) Miller. They lived in Mad River Township, on part of the land owned by his father-in-law. Their children were eleven in number-Jacob, Alfred L., Joseph, Peter, James, Ann, Valentine, Sanford, David. Oliver and Elizabeth. All these were born in Mad River Township. Valentine Miller's descendants are numerous in this county, of which he was an early settler. The father of Henry, Peter Gideon, was a Revolutionary soldier, serving during the entire campaign. His eldest son, George Gideon, came to this township in 1818, and was married to Elizabeth Miller, a sister of the wife of Henry, his brother. George, with his family, emigrated to Clinton, Dewitt Co., Ill. They reared a large family of children -Armstead, George W., John W.. Jaeob, Samuel, Kitty, Ann, Sally and Elizabeth. Henry Gideon, with his family, emigrated to Illinois in 1845, settling near Mechanicsburg, Sangamon Co. In 1854, he again emigrated, to Madison Co., Iowa. His son James wedded Kitty Blue, of Sangamon Co. Ann, the eldesr, daughter, married Samuel Garvey, and Alfred L. wedded Elizabeth Clark. Henry Gideon is still living, being now 84 years of age. George, his brother, died in May, 1880, having reached the ripe old age of 91 years.
David C., the only child of Alfred L. and Elizabeth Gideon, was born Nov. 27, 1848, in Sangamon Co., Ill.; he was reared in Logan Co., where his education was completed. He afterward studied medicine with his uncle, Dr. John Clark, who was one of the pioneers of Logan Co., and whose continuous practice in Mt. Pulaski extended over a period of forty-five years. He died in January, 1877, leaving behind the record of a life pure and blameless. David C. graduated with honor at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati in February, 1873, and engaged in the practice of medicine in Illinois ten years. In March, 1880, he moved with his family to 'troy, Ohio. His marriage to Miss Sadie, youngest daughter of Jacob and Sarah Row, was celebrated Sept. 27, 1868, Dr. John Clark officiating. They have two sons, Alfred L. and Clark McKenzie, both intelligent boys, promising to do credit to their family name. Jacob and
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Sarah Row were natives of Pickaway Co., Ohio, and were the parents of John, George, Mary, Jacob, Carrie, Lydia and Sarah. They emigrated to Logan Co., Ill., in September, 1865, purchasing a fine farm near Mt. Pulaski. Jacob's death occurred in August, 1871, and his wife's death in February, 1879. Alfred L. Gideon, Sr., was a soldier during the Mexican war, under the command of Gen. Winfield Scott. He participated in the battles of Cerro Gordo, New Orleans and Vera Cruz. His wife, Elizabeth, died Aug. 10, 1875. She was a cultured lady, of sterling social qualities, and a Christian in precept and example, beloved by her neighbors, and noted alike for her hospitality and efforts to advance the educational and moral interests of society. She rests in a lovely spot in the beautiful cemetery near Mt. Pulaski. Her parents; Rev. David Clark, and his wife, Sally Winans, were pioneers of Sangamon Co., emigrating from Miami Co., Ohio, to that county, in 1833. Their children-Winans, John, Carman and Elizabeth are all deceased, leaving many descendants bearing their name. Rev. David Clark and his wife were natives of New Jersey. He was born in 1776.
ELIJAH HANNA, farmer; P. O. Westville. Mr. Hanna is not one of the oldest settlers, but has lived in Champaign Co. long enough to have a representation in its history. His parents, Nathan and Elsie Hanna, were natives of West Virginia, but the only representatives of the name here are of the family of his elder brother, Andrew, who came to this neighborhood in 1838. He died in 1876, and his family reside on the home farm. Elijah came from Virginia in 1850, and purchased the farm where he now resides. His marriage to Miss Emily J. Haller was celebrated in 1851. She was born and reared on the farm now owned by her husband. Her parents were ranked among the early settlers, her father, William Haller, being born here sixty nine years ago. His father was John Haller, whose arrival dates back to the first settlements in the Mad River Valley. Discovering that his large family could hardly be supplied with homes (as he was not very wealthy), he sold his farm and emigrated to Defiance Co.. Ohio, where there was still Government land, and all his children could be provided with a home. Mr. Hanna had three children by his first wife-William, Sarah J. and Fletcher. Mrs. Hanna died in 1861, and in 1863 his marriage with Miss Mary Arrowsmith was celebrated. She was the daughter of Mason Arrowsmith, who died in 1879. Ezekiel Arrowsmith was her grandfather, of whom prominent mention is made in other parts of this work. They have four children-Charles, Frank, Edward and Laura. Sarah J. and Fletcher, children of the first marriage, are not living. Mr. Hanna came to this county a poor man, and by hard work and careful management, aided somewhat by others, he purchased his first farm. Later, he has added 124 acres of splendid land to his possessions, which was paid for by his own exertions, and completes a valuable homestead. His reputation is second to none in the neighborhood, and he, together with Simeon Taylor, Lemuel Hoah, and one or two others, have been the means of sustaining the Methodist Episcopal Church at Westville, through a long period of depression. Through their united efforts, the new church was built, which will be a monument to their memory for many years to come. Mr. Hanna is a prosperous, intelligent gentleman, and has done much for the society in which he lives.
WILLIAM S. HUNT, physician and surgeon, Terre Haute. Dr. Hunt is a resident physician of Terre Haute, and enjoys an extensive practice and excellent reputation. His father, Isaac W., and his wife, Jane Mars, were parents of four children - John M., Cynthia E., William S., and his twin sister, who died in infancy. Cynthia married John McCroskey, and her death occurred in 1866. John is living in Adams Township. The mother of Dr. Hunt died in 1848, and Mr. Hunt married Emmeline Wooley in 1850; their children were named Nancy A., Hannah H., Mary E., Clara A. and Ulysses S. G. Three are living Nancy is the wife of Robert Street, Hannah of Lewis Hines, Ulysses is still single, and the other two are dead. The father was a native of New York, and both his wives of Ohio; all the children were born in Ohio. Dr. Hunt commenced teaching school in 1866, during which time he began the study of medicine, and continued his teaching during the winter for five years. He. attended
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lectures and graduated at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, in 1870. He commenced practicing medicine at There Haute in March, 1871; he was Postmaster in 1877-78. His marriage to Miss Nancy L. Lee was celebrated May 23,1872. She is the daughter of John G. and Mary Lee, who represent one of the old families who settled here long ago, and have done their part in developing this country that is now so beautiful. Dr. and Mrs. Hunt have one child-Lillian. He has a good library; his knowledge of medicine is extensive, and his reputation as a physician is an enviable one.
BARNET JENKINS, farmer ; P. O. Westville. One of the most interesting biographies will be that of Barnet Jenkins, not only from the fact of his being one of the prominent men of the township, but also that his reminiscences of incidents related by his ancestors and others of the occurrences taking place in the early settlement of Champaign County, can be correctly given. Among the earliest settlers of this county were Thomas Jenkins and his wife, Nelly Sisk. They were natives of Virginia, emigrating from that State in 1806. He entered a quarter-section on Owen's Creek, in this township, and was one of the first to erect a cabin. There were only a few settlers, with cabins miles apart. Dense woods, wild deer and Indians were plenty. Indians would frequently pass the cabins in squads, and sometimes would show signs of committing depredations, although they never did any actual violence. Somewhere about the year 1812, a number of the settlers from this locality were called to do duty at the blockhouse that was built at Defiance, to which many of the people had taken their wives and children for safety. Horses running loose in the woods during that winter became almost famished for want of food, and, when squirrels were killed and their skins thrown away, they were greedily eaten by them. This is remarkable, but could be vouched for by numbers of men whose veracity was beyond question. One of the first churches built was known as the Nettle Creek Baptist Church. The children of Thomas and Nelly Jenkins were nine in number-Philip, Elijah, Jesse, the father of our subject, Edin, Thomas and Russell, Milly, Ellen and Dica. All of these children are numbered with those that sleep the sleep that knows no waking. Jesse was married in 1815, to Annie Pence. The Pence family were numerous, and will be spoken of at length in this history. Jesse was next to the youngest child, and, during the lifetime of his parents, lived on the home farm and cared for them. Shortly before their death, he purchased a farm in Jackson Township. They had seven children-Barnet, Presley, Elijah, Thomas, Rhoda, Elizabeth and Rebecca. The three eldest were born in Mad River Township. The death of Thomas, the grandfather of Barnet, occurred in 1830, and his wife, Nelly, long before that period. Jesse died in 1869, and his wife in September, 1868. They had done much toward the development of this county, and lived long and useful lives. Six of the children are yet living, the four sons in Champaign Co., and they well represent the name of the man who first settled in the beautiful valley of Mad River. Barnet is one of the influential and wealthy men of this township, and resides near Westville. Thomas Jenkins, after the death of his first wife, married Mrs. Susannah Maggert. Her maiden name was Pence.
GABRIEL KENTON, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The name of Kenton is familiar to every school-boy in the land, and the services of Simon Kenton were invaluable during the war that existed in his time. Gabriel Kenton, of whom we write, was nearly related to him, Simon being his grandfather's brother. The grandfather of Gabriel came to Champaign Co., from Kentucky in 1801 with his family, and settled near Springfield; afterward moved to Urbana, and from thence to the farm now owned by Harvey Kenton. The family were accompanied from Kentucky by Thomas Kenton and family. Soon after their arrival, other families came and settled near them. The lands they settled on were not open for sale and were not surveyed until 1806. The nettles grew so high on the bottoms that when they wanted to go from one place to another, they had to harness a horse to a brush and drag a road through them. The Indians were plenty in Gabriel's time, and they frequently camped near his father's farm. Mad River and its tributaries were favorite hunting and fishing grounds of the Indians, and they watched
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the new settlers with a jealous eye, but in this immediate neighborhood never resorted to actual violence. The customs of the people were of the primitive type, every one trying to help his neighbor, and their opening up of the heavy-timbered lands required a hearty and united effort on their part. William Ward was a partner of Simon Kenton, and was one of the first settlers. Three grandsons represented the family name. Ezekiel Arrowsmith was another of the first settlers, and his descendants will be repre sented in this work. Mark Kenton married Susannah Markley Aug. 31, 1814. They had seven children, four of whom are living, our subject being the oldest, Harvey nest; Samuel lives in Illinois, and also their only sister, Sarah J. Caraway. Harvey is still a bachelor, with one of the finest residences in the township. Our subject, Gabriel Kenton, was married to Mary A. Bryan July 18, 1854. They were parents of one child that died in infancy. They have reared several children, but have adopted none. The parents of Gabriel died-the father May 6, 1851, and the mother Sept. 12, 1858. They were very energetic people, commencing life in poor circumstances, but by energy accumulated considerable property. Both Harvey and Gabriel are very wealthy men, and are noted for their good qualities. They have both engaged largely in the stock business, Harvey in Ohio and Gabriel in Illinois, where be has a large farm. He superintends his large business and rarely makes a mistake. The familyare mostly Republican in politics, and have always been numbered among our most influential citizens. Elisha Harbor, William Harbor, Mark Kenton, Sampson Talbott and William Custar entered the land in the north part of Mad River Township. The land Westville was built on was virtually entered by Arch McGrew.
JOHN KISER, retired farmer; P. 0. Tremont City, Clark Co. The Kiser family were natives of Switzerland. Jacob and his wife emigrated from there previous to the Revolutionary war; they settled in Virginia and reared a large family, of whom Philip, the father of John, our subject, was one. He came to this county in 1805 and settled where the old Kiser mills were located. He was a very wealthy man, and when he left Virginia he purchased a flat-boat and loaded his things, intending to locate near Cincinnati. The river was high, and Mrs. Kiser being very timid, induced her husband to land near Gallipolis, and she afterward refused to board the boat, and Mr. Kiser was therefore forced to unload his goods and rent a cabin. He lived here only a few months and then came to the property previously purchased by him. This was the best mill site on Mad River, and he built a new mill, which did a good business. During the war of 1812, he built a fort near his house, and people came from every direction for security. Philip was Captain of a company during this war, and did duty on the frontier. He was one of the first Justices in the county, and was a good official ; he was a very prominent man, and was one of the largest landowners ; he died in 1817. His widow lived until 1837 and reared her family ; she was one of the best business women of her time-buying stock, superintending the mill and attending to many other duties that are usually performed by men. John Kiser was given a good education and graduated at Urbana, in 1825 ; he studied medicine one year, but, upon his mother's account, gave up the idea of practice and commenced the agricultural business. He was born Sept 7, 1809, and was married, Jan. 31, 1831, to Elizabeth Yarnell, of Champaign County; she was born in 1815, in Virginia. They were parents of ten children, two of them died in infancy; the living are Lucinda, Philip, Annie, Jane, Victoria, Emma E., Lewis C., the inventor of the celebrated air motor, and Thomas. Mrs. Kizer died in 1875, since which time his daughter Emma has been his housekeeper; she was married, in 1878, to Adam Frantz. Mr. Kiser has been liberal in giving information of the early life of their family, and we are glad to assign them a place in the history of this county. He is owner of 1871 acres of choice land, that brings him a nice income. He is 71 years of age, and has plenty of this world's goods to enable him to live at his ease.
GEORGE W. KITE, retired farrner; P. O. St. Paris. George Kite represents one of the oldest families in Mad River Township ; his father, Adam Kite, emigrated
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in 1807, from Rockingham Co., Va., and from him has sprung the large number bearing his name in this county; he entered a part of the farm now owned by our subject, of which a portion (a pre-emption claim) was purchased from a party who had previously settled upon it. Mr. Kite has in his possession the patent ;ranted, bearing the signa ture of Thomas Jefferson. A large number of Indians were still in the neighborhood, and an Indian town was located a half-mile west of Millerstown, on a tract of land now owned by Brubaker. Adam and Elizabeth had four children born in Virginia, and six in this county, three only are now living-our subject, his sisters, Sarah and Margaret, the wife of Dr. Thomas, of Pleasant Hill, Ind. George was reared on the farm ; his first school-teacher was named Sutton, and the log schoolhouse was located where David Frank's house is built. The light was admitted by having one of the logs taken out and the space covered with oiled paper; slab seats were used, and the teacher knew well how to use the birch. One of the tricks the boys were in the habit of practicing was that, of barring the teacher out during holidays. This happening during a term of George's attendance, the teacher compromised by treating the scholars to a quart of whisky. Our subject was married to Peniah Fusson, in 1831 ; their children were ten in number, all living to adult age; three are now deceased. Mrs. Kite died in 187 7, and Mr. Kite married Mrs. Overbulse, in 1878; they now reside a half-mile west of the Myrtle Tree Church. Mr. Kite has helped build three churches on the site of the elegant one now completed, which will ever be a monument to his memory. He is one of our most influential and respected citizens, and enjoys the confidence of a large circle of acquaintances. When George was first married, his father-in-law, Rev. William Fusson, made him a present of a bedstead made of fence-rails, their first article of furniture. Their cooking utensils consisted of one skillet, and their dishes were few and of the cheapest kind. There were none poorer financially, but, being well mated, the young couple went to work with a will, and their labors were crowned with success.
WILLIAM LEE, retired farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. One of the noble pioneers who still live in this township is the man whose name heads this sketch ; he is so well known in the county that his name is familiar to all ; his life has been of that energetic sort that was characteristic of the first settlers, who have contributed the best years of their life to the development of this country. His father, John Lee, emigrated to Ohio with his family, from Virginia, in 1810; he purchased a tract of land of William Copps, and settled upon it, soon after which he died, and, his widow not being able to pay for it, Copps again took possession; she rented a little tract, which was cultivated by the children for two years, when she purchased 80 acres in the vicinity of Mr. Lee's present residence; this was paid for, and the children, five in number, thereby obtained their start. in life; they were named James, Richard, William, Fanny and John. The mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Lowman; she was born in Maryland; she afterward married Philip Stout; her death occurred in 1846. Four of the children are still living, William being the only one residing in the vicinity of the old home. His marriage to Miss Susannah Blose was celebrated in 1832; they started in life on a cash capital of $100; by hard work and economy, William managed to pay for 24 acres, which was constantly added to, until he is now one of our large land-owners, having a half-section of valuable land, nicely improved, most of which was done under his supervision. His children, John, Philander, Mary A., Elizabeth, Milly J., Susannah, Henry, Dica, James A., Margaretta L., Eliza E. and Iva are living; two are dead. All live in Ohio except Susannah, who lives in Iowa. Mrs. Lee died June 15,1880, after living to see her children grow up to be useful men and women ; Margaretta manages the house since her mother's death. Mr. Lee is a cousin to the late Gen. R. E. Lee, one of the ablest Generals the United States ever produced; his life has ever been characterized by strict integrity, firmness of purpose, economy and strict adherence to business principles; he is now 71 years of age, as genial as when a boy of 20, and lives on his farm, caring little for the winter's storm, as he is well provided for. We are glad to record his name among those deserving of having their names perpetuated in history.
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WILLIAM V. LEE, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. Our subject is a grandson of one of the pioneers of Champaign Co., who came here when a boy, when wild deer and Indians were plenty in the dense woods, that were untouched by the settler's ax ; his grandfather came here in 1810, and settled on Dugan Prairie, which is a beautiful tract of land in the center of the county ; his grandfather is said to have seen the soldiers of Gen. Hull, who lay at Urbana during the war of 1812-15; his grandfather was one of those men who wagoned from Springfield to Bellefontaine and West Liberty before there were any railroads in this country ; he is esteemed in the best of society, and counted an honest, industrious and intelligent man; he has forty-nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The father of our subject, Philander Lee, was married, in 1858, to Miss Maria Evilsizor, of Champaign Co.; they have four children living, of whom William, our subject, is the eldest: four children-Elmore W., Sarah J., Woda N. and Loda L. (twins) are deceased; William V., Effie J., Amos R. and Nancy E. live with their parents.
DAVID LOUDENBACK, real estate and loans; P. O. Westville. There is, perhaps, no man in Mad River Township so well known as Squire Loudenback. For many years he has served the public, and now takes front rank among the pioneers of the township. His age is 72 years; he was born March 20, 1808, in Page Co., Va., and came to this township, together with his parents, David and Susannah Loudenback, Nov. 1, 1817. They were parents of eight children, five sons and three daughters-Benjamin, Ann, David, the subject of this biography, Rebecca, Emanuel, Barbara, John and Martin. They were well known to all the older people living in the township, and it is presumed that they are all living. Squire David Loudenback was wedded to Miss Charlotte M. Hebbard, in 1838, by whom he had ten children, of whom Eugene F. and Hylas D. are living. Those that are now deceased were named Noah, Eliza, David H., Henrietta, Charles G., Lucy A. and Devilla O. Mrs. Loudenback died June 26, 1857. Her married life extended over a period of nineteen years. Mr. Loudenback was again married to Mrs. Elizabeth A. Smith (nee Custar), July 2'2, 1858. Three children were the result of this union-Rienzi, the eldest, was born May 10, 1859, and died May 7, 1863 ; Rolla, Feb. 2J, 1862, and Glendora, who was born at the same time, but died in infancy. The early life of Squire Loudenback was similar to that of all young men who have helped in the development of a new country, until June 1, 1829, when, from the advantages derived from close application to study, he commenced teaching school, and for fourteen consecutive terms taught in this and the adjoining district. He then formed an engagement as clerk in a grocery store at Westville, which was continued for three years. During this time he began loaning money, which has been continued until this time, the success of which has made him the wealthiest man in Champaign county. He was also Deputy County Surveyor, and paid attention to the selling and settling up of estates; for ten years be acted as Township Clerk; in 1842, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and his re-election was continued for thirty-six years, and during this long term of office never had one of his decisions reversed. No man can show a better record than this. He has also been Township Treasurer for twenty-six years, which office he still holds. He has settled more large estates, and is guardian of more children, than any man in the township. He is also the largest land-owner, having now 1,200 acres, all under cultivation. His present residence is a handsome frame house, near the village of Westville, and here Mr. Loudenback passes his time when not engaged in business cares. Much of the township history has been obtained from him. Squire Loudenback commenced teaching school June 1, 18'29, for $10.50 per month, and out of this had to pay his board. At this time he was $6.25 in debt, which was paid out of his first quarter's salary, and from this small beginning, has grown, by energy and fair dealing, to the position of one of the most prominent as well as the wealthiest man in the county. In addition to all his other business, he is connected with the Third National Bank of Urbana, of which he owns one-tenth interest. He has, since 1830, been an ardent Universalist, and made a princely donation of between $5,000 and $6,000, for the purpose of building the church of that order in Westville.
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He also pays a yearly dividend of $300 toward the support of the ministry. He takes a great pride in having been from boyhood a Jacksonian Democrat, casting his first vote for Andrew Jackson, and has helped elect every Democratic President since that time. As a man of correct business babies and unswerving integrity, he is, without doubt, the equal of any man in the State of Ohio. We are proud of his biographical sketch, and know it will be read with interest by every supporter of this history, which will be the authoritative one to this date and for all time to come.
ALLEN LOUDENBACK, farmer; P. O. Urbana. The gentleman of whom we write is not only one of the prominent men, but also one of the first children born in the county. He was born Aug. 11, 1813, in a cabin, at a time when there were a number of Indians living in this vicinity. The last of the Miami tribe left in 1821 or 1823. Daring their stay they were quite peaceable, and were engaged in the manufacture of baskets, etc. Allen frequently made visits to their wigwams, and can now point out the places where their lodges stood. He was personally acquainted with all the Kentons, Penes, Powells, Hallers, McGrews. McShenys, Mullans and Baggs. These men were the first settlers of this township, and numerous descendants of some of these families still remain. The Mad River Valley was a favorite hunting ground of the Indians, and they left with much reluctance. Squirrels and deer were very numerous, and the squirrels were especially destructive to corn. Mr. Loudenback killed the last wild deer ever seen in Champaign Co. in the fall of 1837. The farm now owned by him was entered by Arnold Custar, one of the first men coming here. Every part of it was covered with woods, and now it seems almost incredible to believe that the fields covered with waving grain were the home of the savage and the wild deer. His father, Daniel Loudenback was a native of Shenandoah Co., Va., and was married in 1812 to Mary Pence, a representative of one of the first families. They had four children-our subject, Jonas Loudenback, Elizabeth and Sarah who died in 1874. Allen Loudenback was married, in 1837, to Elizabeth Kiblinger, of Clark Co. They had eleven children, six of whom are living Martha, Louis, Abram, Mary, Isabel and William (twins). Daniel Loudenback died May 3,1876. His widow makes her home with her son Allen, and has now reached the ripe old age of 89 years. The wife of Allen died on June 3, 1874. Allen was two years Township Trustee, and has the ability to fill official positions, but refuses to have any further business in that capacity. His first vote was polled for Van Buren, and he has voted the Democratic ticket ever since.
JOHN LUTZ, retired; P. O. Terre Haute. For more than a half-century, this worthy gentleman and his wife, Hannah, have been residents of this township. They came from Virginia in 1828, and have lived long enough in this country to see the beautiful fields of waving grain take the place of the mighty forest, and the log cabin replaced by the magnificent farmhouse; the freight carried to and from market by the steam engine instead of the cumbersome wagon; and the country developed into more than they, in their fondest dreams, could at that time imagine possible. They came to this county the next year after their marriage, their possessions consisting of one horse, a wagon and $200 in money, each possessing a pair of strong and willing arms. Soon after settling here, Mr. Lutz purchased a piece of land, cleared it up, and afterward sold it, and purchased the land that he now owns. Part of this he improved, and has since built a nice brick house, large barns and commodious outbuildings, and has made this a very desirable farm indeed. He has been one of the men that has prospered by his own industry, and, in all his business relations, he has ever been honest, and has the entire confidence of those with whom he has done business. Of their children one is dead ; those living are Ananias, Josiah, William, John G.. Elizabeth M. and Mary E. All these are well married and prosperous. The aged couple still enjoy each other's society, and, as they journey down the hillside of life, hand-in-hand, loving and trusting each other, happy in the peace that passeth all understanding, and waiting for the time when they shall be called to a higher life, with their children and grandchildren near them, they may surely think their work has been well done. Of their
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parents the children may ever feel a just pride, and their memory should ever be sacred. The life-time of toil undergone by our energetic pioneers, is what has made this beautiful county the pride of Ohio. We are glad to have thus an opportunity of perpetuating their names in the history of their county, which they have beautified and enriched with their labor and their purse. To each of their children, Mr. Lutz and wife make a present of a copy of the history of Champaign Co. In this they can know of the growth, prosperity and advancement since the first settlement to the present time, and this sketch of their parents will serve to remind them of their goodness and upright lives.
R. R. McLAUGHLIN, physician and surgeon, Westville. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch is known far and wide, being the only physician in the pleasant little village of Westville, and has for the past nineteen years been engaged in business in this neighborhood. He was born in Clark Co., Ohio, Oct. 31, 1832 ; his father, William W. McLaughlin, was a native of Ohio, and was born in Concord Township; he was married to Miss Sarah Robinson, probably in 1829; she was a daughter of Richard and Sarah Robinson; a native of Pennsylvania. They were parents of four children, our subject being the second child; the others being named, respectively, Annie M. (the eldest), James B. (the second son), and Clarissa B. In 1844, they moved to Madison, Wis., and, in 1849, Mr. McLaughlin was elected a member of the Legislature, and, for a long term of years, was re-elected to that office, the duties of which he faithfully performed. His death occurred in April, 1877 ; his wife died in 1840, and he married Miss Emmeline Hazelton in 1843, by whom he had three daughters-Harriet, Louisa G. and Eliza E. Dr. McLaughlin, of whom we write, commenced the study of medicine under the tutelage of Dr. A. C. McLaughlin, of Tremont, Ohio, when 19 years of age, and commenced practice in 1855, at Atlanta, Ill. Afterward, he located in McLean, Ill., and from there went to Muscoda, Wis. He removed to Champaign Co., where be continues business, and is one of the prominent men of Mad River Township. His marriage to Miss Charlotte S. Wilson was celebrated Dec. 25, 1856, in Union Township. Her father, Reason C., was a native of Virginia, and Jane Wilson, his wife, of Maryland. Dr. McLaughlin and his wife are parents of four children-Minnetta B., Ira W., Clarence M. and Lottie J.; Minnetta is the wife of Charles Ogden ; they were married May 20, 1880, and reside in Westville. Dr. McLaughlin was elected Colonel of the 1st O. S. M., that were discharged in October, 1863. He was also Postmaster of Westville several years. All the family are worthy members of the Universalist Church. The residence is a neat one, and is cordially presided over by the worthy couple of whom we write, and a more hospitable pair will be hard to find. The Doctor is a substantial Democrat, and has a good record as such. We predict for him a long and happy future. He is one of the most prominent among the members of his church, a strict Prohibitionist, and a prince of good fellows.
HAMILTON W. MAGREW, farmer; P. O. Westville. The Magrew family date back in the early history of this county to 1810 ; Archibald, and Ruth Miller, his wife, were natives of Pennsylvania, and from them are descended all those who bear their name in this county ; they settled on the land that is now the property of Lemuel Magrew, and made substantial improvements, clearing up and otherwise developing one of the most beautiful tracts of land between Westville and Urbana; they were parents of five children-Archibald, John, William, Matthew, and one daughter, Mary; Archibald, William and Matthew lived to see a half-century pass, and the great improvements made in their native county were almost incredible. Archibald was married to Miss Mary Taylor Feb. 25, 1813, by whom he had ten children ; five are living Margaret, Mary J., Caroline. Lemuel and Hamilton ; Margaret married Amos Rupert; Mary is the wife of Jacob Aulabaugh ; Caroline wedded Milton Fithian ; Lemuel married Linda Miller ; and Hamilton married hiss Elizabeth Snyder. Matthew married Margaret Dodds, of Dayton, and reared a family, of whom one son, Lemuel H., is the only one to perpetuate the family name on their family tree. Of William and his family but little
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is known; one of his children, Caroline, married John Snyder, and resides near Urbana. The death of the grandparents occurred-Archibald, Jan. 6, 1855, and the wife and mother probably in 1830 ; he was born Dec. 21, 1763, and his wife, March 11, 1757. Lemuel Magrew's marriage to Miss Linda Miller was celebrated Feb. 28, 1854; they are parents of Archie M., Lemuel W., Mary L., Minnie F. and Clara M. Hamilton Magrew married Elizabeth Snyder in 1858 ; they are parents of Cyrus H. (who died in 1875) and Lula; there are only four sons belonging to these different branches of the Magrew family, who will transmit to posterity their name, that has ever been associated with the highest attributes of honor, justice and prosperity. Archibald Magrew was a soldier in the war of 1812, under the command of Capt. Joseph Vance, afterward Governor; he was also Justice of the Peace for nine consecutive terms. Matthew Magrew was County Recorder for a number of years, and was one of the best officials the county ever had; he was also County Treasurer for two or more terms; afterward, he was in the grain business until his death.
LEMUEL W. MAGREW, farmer; P. O: Westville. It is eminently proper that every descendant of the pioneers should be made mention of in the history of the county in which they were born and reared. Representing, as they do, the names of those whose memories shall live as long as time shall last; we take pleasure in presenting the name that heads this sketch for consideration. His grandparents, Archibald and Mary Magrew, were among the earliest settlers of this township; Archibald's father was a native of Pennsylvania, and his name cannot here be obtained ; they were a worthy couple, and settled first upon the hill where Lemuel Magrew, Sr., now resides; they reared several children, one of whom is the father of the subject of this sketch. He has always been engaged in the stock and agricultural business; he has ever been an energetic business man, and has lately removed to Delaware, Ohio, for the purpose of completing the education of his children. He was wedded to Miss Linda Miller, of Union Co., in 1854; they have five children living and one dead; those that are living are Archie M., Lemuel, Jr. (our subject), Mary, Minnie and Clara ; Archie M. wedded Miss Eva Pence May 20, 1880, and the wedding of Miss Mary Harwood and Lemuel W. Magrew was celebrated Sept. 26, 1877 ; they have one daughter, whose joyous smile gladdens their early married life, and still further the bonds of affection between them; and, as they together, hand in hand, toil up life's rugged pathway, they should ever feel proud of the distinction of being descendants of those determined pioneers, whose hardships and privations enabled them to cast their lot in this beautiful county, that equals, in grandeur and wealth of soil, any in the State; they are comfortably located on what is known as the John Beckham farm, and, by his energy and economy, Mr. Magrew will surely become one of our wealthy and popular men.
GEORGE W. MINNICK, blacksmith, Westville. Among the business men or Westville whom we are pleased to notice, is one of the pioneer smiths, who has lived in Mad River Township for many years, and is the oldest man doing business in this line in the neighborhood. He is a native of Virginia, and came to Ohio in 1831. He was born Nov. 14, 1808. His first location was in Springfield, where he worked at his trade, and he came to Westville in 1835. He knew well Thomas Kenton, Ezekiel Arrowsmith, Elisha Harbor, William Harbor, William McGinnis, John Whitmore, George Zimmerman, Christian Norman, Henry Gideon, Valentine Miller, and many others who did a grand work in the development of this county. He purchased the shop and tools of Daniel Long, and at once commenced business. He was married to Miss Susannah Buroker Aug. 28, 1834. Business was good, and young Minnick, being an excellent workman, prospered well. His wife was a daughter of Adam Buroker, a native of Virginia, and he was also one of the first settlers. George and his wife were parents of eight children, of whom only Israel, Sylvester and Noah are living. Mrs. Minnick died in 1848. Aug. 28, of same year, he was married to Miss Nancy Wells, of Westville. They had six children, two of whom, Piatt and Glendora, still survive. All the children of the first marriage have married and are living in the town of Westville.
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George has worked at the forge for fifty-three consecutive years, and two sons, Israel and Sylvester, still do business at the old stand. Mr. Minnick takes life rather easy, and only works at the trade when business is pushing. He has voted the Democratic ticket all his life, and his first vote was polled for Andrew Jackson ; he has reared a family of sons who are of the same political opinion. He is known far and wide as a master workman, and his cordiality has made him a host of friends. He is now gently going down the hillside of life, but is withal the same jolly fellow that the pioneers knew, and whose name will live in the history of their county for all time.
ISAAC NEFF, Justice of the Peace, Terra Haute. We take great pleasure in giving Isaac Neff a front rank among the prominent men of this township, especially as we are indebted to him for much of the valuable information received, that has helped complete this history. His memory has retained all that has ever been said or written about the first settlements, and he is able to give the dates, etc., from memory, that well agree with authority, both verbal and recorded. Squire Neff was born in Shenandoah Co., Va., in 1823, and his parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (Strickler) Neff, emigrated in 1830, to Mad River Township, and purchased his first farm one mile east of Terre Haute. Five children-Isaac (our subject), Mary, Peter, David and Abram Neff were born in Virginia. Isaac, the eldest, went to school three years, between the ages of 4 and 7, and could read, write, and had progressed some in mathematics; this was the basis of his education. His father's family was composed of eighteen children, be having had three wives and three families of children. By the first wife, the five previously mentioned were born in Virginia, and John, Henry G., Joseph and Jacob in Ohio. The death of Mrs. Neff occurred March 23, 1840, aged 39 years. His marriage to Rachel Romick was celebrated in October, 1840, by whom he had four children-Michael, Barbara A., Samuel R. and Daniel W. Their married life was of rather short duration, the death of Mrs. Rachel Neff occurring in 1845. With his large family of small children, Mr. Neff was obliged to have mother to care for them, and he was married the third time, to Rachel Landaher. They were parents of Aaron, Caroline (infant daughter), Jonas and Emma. The most surprising circumstance is that, of this large family of eighteen children, whose circumstances in life have been so varied, only three are dead. Mrs. Neff died December, 1863, and his death occurred in 1865. He had lived to see a family reared, the number of which exceeded any other in the township, and the vast change in the topographical character of the country was beyond his most sanguine expectations. He was an honest, industrious man, respected by all ; for twenty years a member of the M. E. Church, Township Trustee for twenty years, and was elected Justice of the Peace, but declined and would not receive his commission. Isaac, our subject, commenced attending school, in the winter season only, in 1833, and continued until he was 17 years of age, at which time his right ankle was injured by a fall from a colt. Luckily for him, he had education enough to conduct a common school, and, in 1842, he began teaching in his home district, and for twenty consecutive years he was one of our practical teachers. During this time, he became engaged to and married Miss Hester A. Darnall, in 1848. She was born on the spot where Mr. Neff now resides. They were the parents of Melville M., Emma E., Mary M., John J. and Samuel S. Of these, there were three teachers, while both the wife and husband were also practical teachers. Mr. Neff was elected Township Clerk in 1851, and has served for thirty consecutive years ; has not, during that time, missed an election, a meeting of the Board of Trustees, or other meeting, when required bylaw to be present. In 1853, he was elected Township Assessor; in 1854, Justice of the Peace, in which capacity he has served nine terms. Squire Neff has settled more estates in Clark and Champaign Counties than any other man in them, and the satisfactory manner in which this has been done, has given him a record for honor and fairness that will ever be a source of pride to his descendants. He was elected District Land Assessor in 1859, 1870 and 1880. His capacity for business is equal to that of any man in the township, and everything undertaken has proved his correctness. His wife died Dec. 13, 1875, aged 49 years. His marriage to his second wife, Miss Amanda Darnall, occurred Jane 1, 1876. The
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first wife was a daughter of Nathan Darnall, and the second, of James Darnall, cousins. They both were daughters of prominent men. Squire Neff prides himself upon his record as a man, an official and an exponent of Democratic principles. His residence is one mile west of Terre Haute, near which he has seen three schoolhouses built, the first a log, the second a frame, and the last a brick, thus showing the progressive age in which he lives.
AUGUSTUS NICHOLS, boots and shoes, Westville. Mr. Nichols is well and favorably known in Champaign County, having commenced the manufacture of boots and shoes in the fall of 1843, soon after his landing at Westville. He is a native of Virginia, but was married to Miss Mary A. Hoak, of this place, April 1, 1844. Her parents were among the first settlers of this county, and they are still living in Westville. Mr. and Mrs. Nichols have three children living-Maggie (the wife of C. B. Hanna), Mary L. and Elmer E. E., who is quite a mechanic, and is engaged in the manufacture of rustic frames, chairs, etc.; two children-Laura L. and John H.- died in infancy. When Mr. Nichols first came to Westville, it was a good business point. There were four dry goods and grocery stores, two good hotels, blacksmith and wagon shops, and it presented a business air quite superior to what it wears today. The county was then being rapidly developed, and the accessions to the community were principally from Virginia. He has added recently to the business in which he has so long engaged (and been so deservedly popular) a stock of custom-made boots and shoes, which has proven satisfactory. Politically, be is strictly Democratic, and is always ready to elucidate the virtues or defend the honor of his party. Both himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church, to which faith they have strictly adhered for forty long years, and today have a higher love for its precepts and doctrine than ever before. They are a worthy family, highly respected, and enjoy the confidence of all who know them. The most important item of this biography is the manner in which Mr. Nichols obtained a start in this place. Being a good mechanic when he came here, he could, however, get nothing to do, and, after vainly trying for some time without success, thought of returning to Virginia, but, being short of cash (having only fifty cents in his pocket), it was easier thought of than done. One day, while pondering over his condition, Frederick Baker, one of the whole-souled pioneers (who has long since been laid to rest), came up to him and asked if he would go to his farm and do some work for him. Having no tools, or other material, young Nichols told him that he would gladly do so if he had the necessary implements. This was speedily overcome by Mr. Baker telling him to get in the wagon, and they drove to Urbana, and necessary supplies were laid in. After this job was finished, Daniel Rhorer, another "old settler," gave him employment for two months, as he had a large number of hands. From this time fortune smiled on him, and the shops in Westville were glad to employ him. After his marriage he built a shop, the business men " taking stock " in its erection, the man heading the list being "William Ward," one of the best men of his day. John Dishes was the second man, and John Niswonger; who still lives, doing the carpenter work. From a capital stock of 50 cents, Mr. Nichols' business increased until he employed six workmen. He was also very energetic, and frequently worked all night. He accumulated a nice sum of money, which was judiciously invested in land, and he owns, besides his business, a nice farm of 41 1/2 acres, with an income sufficient to enable him to live at his ease. The parents of his wife are the oldest married couple in the township.
MARTIN NITCHMAN, retired; P. O. Terre Haute; the parents of our subject were natives of Pennsylvania, and emigrated from that State to Ohio in 1835, and settled near West Liberty. The marriage of Philip Nitchman and Rachel Titsworth was solemnized probably in 1803. They were parents of Martin, our subject, Ann, John T., Maria, David, Catharine, Charlotta, Sarah, Eliza, Louisa, Christina, Benjamin, J. Leibert and Philip. They were all born in Pennsylvania, and five of the number are deceased. The father, Philip, was a tailor by occupation, but they lived on a farm, and
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the children all learned trades. Martin worked with his father at the tailoring business until his marriage to Miss Catharine Carson, of Adams County, Penn., in 1831. After coming to Ohio, he again engaged in this business, which was followed for twelve years. He then purchased a farm, and, for a number of years, engaged in the agricultural business. He was very prosperous, and made money easily. He commenced without any money, $'3,000 in debt, and, at the end of seven years, had paid his debts, paid for his farm, reared his family, and had money ahead. His children were six in number: Hannah, Ann, William, Magdalena, Rachel and Clarissa. The absence of sons caused the girls to act as substitutes, and, therefore, they grew up active, healthy women, and they are all living, and were all married. Mr. Nitchman has now retired from an active business life, and lives at his ease in the pleasant village of Terre Haute. He and his wife are a worthy couple, and are highly respected by every one. Their lives have been such that their descendants may ever look with pride upon their ancestry, who have always been faithful to their trust.
ADAM PENCE, retired farmer; P. O. Westville. Among the many pioneers of this county we find Adam Pence living in an old-time cottage under the beautiful hills that overlook the Mad River Valley. He is one of our comfortable men, retired from active business, and with his wife, three sons and two daughters, lives a happy, contented life, surrounded by domestic comforts, and free from care. Adam was born in Shenandoah Co., Va., probably in 1802 ; his parents, Lewis and Barbara Pence, emigrated to Ohio in 1820 ; they are both of German descent, and Mrs. Pence came from Germany. Their children (eleven in number) were born in Virginia, the youngest being 21 years of age; four of them were married. Lewis had considerable money when he came here, and purchased a section of land, afterward buying 300 acres more ; this he divided among his children at once, and they set to work and soon those who were married had a comfortable log house erected. Adam, our subject, is now living in the house first built, in 1821, and which has been occupied by his family for fifty-nine years. He was married to his present wife, Mary Prince, a native of Kentucky, in 1824 ; they were both hard workers, saved their money, and soon had gained enough to purchase 240 acres of land ; this was in turn divided among their children, of whom they had nine, seven sons and two daughters. Three sons are married; Wesley married Emily Strickler ; Adam, Jr., wedded Nancy McCarty, and William married Mary Miller. The two daughters are named Sarah and Elizabeth. There are also three sons living at home Henry, John and David. Adam Pence has also raised another man, who might properly be reckoned a son, named Charley M. Overhulse. The sons living at home have lately added to their possessions 200 acres more land, purchased in partnership, lying west of the home farm. Their father still owns his original tract of 100 acres given him by his father, with an income sufficient to furnish every comfort while they live. We have been to many farmhouses, but the culinary skill of the mother and her daughters cannot be excelled by any housewives in the county. Their habits are of the quiet sort, for which the pioneers are noted, and the family are members of the Lutheran Church, to which Mr. and Mrs. Pence have belonged for nearly three-quarters of a century. They are noted for their honesty, and as neighbors, enjoy the confidence of all with whom they are acquainted. This sketch will ever be a source of pride to their descendants as indicating the character of their ancestry, and the high esteem in which they are held in the community.
DAVID PENCE, retired farmer; P. O. Westville. This gentleman is one of the oldest men and represents the first families of this county. His father, Abram Pence, came to this county from Shenandoah Co., Va., in 1811, and settled on the farm now owned by our subject; he built a log cabin in the woods that had never been defaced by an ax, save when the Indian in his hunt for wild honey would fell a tree in which bees were discovered. He was married in Virginia; before his emigration, to Miss Elizabeth Mauck. The children are Mary, Abram, Elizabeth and David, who is the gentleman furnishing the facts for this sketch ; Mary. the eldest is also living and will he 89 years of age in Novem-
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ber ; she is the mother of Allen Loudenback, whose sketch appears in this work. During the boyhood of David, there were Indians still living in the neighborhood, and frequently played with Indian boys, shooting the bow and arrow, etc.; there were frequent Indian scares previous to this, and one of his uncles, Joseph Mauck, left the settlement on account of it; the Indians, however, always treated the settlers kindly ; families were on the most friendly terms, and all the neighbors were obliged to help each other in their log-rollings and in the erection of their log cabins. Henry and Mary Pence-the grandparents of David settled in this township about 1805. The members of the Pence family who settled in Mad River Township were Benjamin, Isaac, Henry, Abram, the father of our subject, John, Samuel and Reuben. In Urbana Township, Jacob and Joseph settled. In Fairfield County, David Pence was the only male representative. The daughters were all settled in Mad River Township-Susannah, Annie, Elizabeth, Mary and John Stewart's wife, Magdaline and Barbara. The parents of all these children were among the first families that settled here. Henry was born in 1740, and Mary Blimly, his wife, in 1746. They emigrated from Germany to America in their youth; two of their children died in infancy and were not named, consequently they were the parents of nineteen children. David, our subject, was married to Priscilla Frazee in 1831, and has five children living; one child who died in infancy. Moses F. married Kate McFarland; Wilson T. wedded Angeline Stienbarger; Abram M. married Mary J. Wheeler; Maggie is the wife of W. S. Garrett, and Amanda wedded U. G. Burke. Mr. Pence and his wife live entirely at their ease on the home farm, surrounded by their children and blessed with plenty of this world's goods. They are both members of the Baptist Church, and, as they are descending the hillside of life band in hand, they feel happy in the thought that they are still spared to each other.
ADAM PRINCE, deceased. Adam Prince and his wife, Eve Buroker, were natives of Virginia, and emigrated to Kentucky in 1805, and from there to this county in 1809. Having found a spring (which was so attractive to those reared in a mountainous country), Mr. Prince entered the quarter-section upon which it was located. The land office was in Cincinnati, and it seems that another man also wanted the same tract, and had started to make his entry the day before Mr. Prince expected to go. Mr. P., bearing of him on the way, rode all night, determined to have the land he wanted, and reached Cincinnati before his rival, entered the land. and started on his return. Meeting the other man, Mr. Prince informed him that the tract in question was not on the market at that time. Mr. Prince passed six months on the frontier in the northwestern part of the State, during the war of 1812, leaving his family in charge of a neighbor. His land was covered with a magnificent growth of walnut and poplar, which were gradually removed and the land brought under cultivation. He was quite a noted mechanic. and manufactured barrels, wooden clocks, and all needed farm implements, with equal facility. His wife died in 1828; lie survived her twenty-one years, having been all his life a devoted member of the Lutheran Church. He was a prosperous man, and left to each of his children a tract of land. Adam and Eve Prince were parents of four children-Elizabeth, Mary, William and Nancy. William died in 1848 the three daughters still survive. The first husband of Elizabeth was Isaac Smith, a son of one of the excellent families of the county, and after his death she was mar ried to James Crabill, who also died many years ago. She reared a large family, some of whom live in the neighborhood, and others are scattered over the West. Mary wedded Adam Pence; their children are noble men and women, and their names are given in connection with their family history. William Prince was born in 1807 ; his education was such as the schools of his day afforded; he was a good penman and an excellent arithmetician, as can be seen by looking; over his old copy-book, wherein his problems were solved, which is now in posse: lion of his children. In 1828, he was married to Miss Sarah, a daughter of Christian Norman, who also had emigrated from the Shenandoah Valley in 1805. His death occurred in 1848. Mr. Prince came into possession of the land entered by his father in 1833, to which other purchases were
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added. He also owned a lot of Western lands. He received a commission as Captain of a militia company in 1841, or 1842, which was held until the company was dis banded. He was a man of considerable influence in his neighborhood, and was always firm in the support of all moral and religious work, living and dying in the faith of his fathers. Nancy, his youngest daughter, was married to David Vance, a relative of Ex-Gov. Vance, of this State. They reared five children, two of whom-John and David -are ministers in the Methodist Church. To William and Sarah Prince were born nine children, six of whom grew to maturity-Mary, David N., Peter W., Elizabeth, Benjamin F. and Lydia. Mary was married to Rhinehart Snapp, with whom she lived until his death, six years later. She is now a resident of Jackson Township. David N. married Mary Jones, of this county. He volunteered, in 1861, in Co. I, 42d O. V. I. From a private, he became Captain of his company, and, after many engagements in the war, from which he escaped unharmed, was honorably discharged, after a service to his country of more than three years. His residence is in Shelby County. Peter W. is the owner of the old home farm, which he has greatly improved, and is, in all respects, a prosperous farmer. His wife was Miss Mary Browning. Elizabeth married John Wantz, and died in 1873. Benjamin F., after passing his boyhood on the farm, attended Wittenberg College, at Springfield, Ohio, from which institution he graduated in 1865. He also studied theology, and is now Professor of Greek in that institution. He was married to Ellen Sanderson, daughter of Col. Sanderson, of the regular army. Lydia is the wife of Emanuel Largent, a resident of this county.
B. F. PRINCE, A. M., Professor of Greek and History in Wittenberg College, Springfield, Ohio. Benjamin F. Prince, A. M., was born Dec. 12, 1840, in Champaign Co., Ohio; his ancestors came to this country about the middle of the last cent ury, and were settlers in Eastern Pennsylvania; his grandfathers, Christian Norman and Adam Prince, with their wives, settled in the forests of Champaign Co., the one in 1805, the other in 1809; both were prosperous farmers, and succeeded in gaining a competency for themselves and their children. William Prince, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in Kentucky in 1807, and the mother, Sarah Norman, in Ohio in 1808 ; they were married in 1828. William Prince became a successful farmer and a man of influence in the community in which he lived; he died in 1848. Benjamin F. Prince is the fifth of six children who grew to maturity ; he was brought up to the labors of the farm, and received his early education in the district school; in 1860, he entered the Preparatory Department of Wittenberg College; he graduated from this institution in 1865, and, at the opening of the next session, he proceeded to the study of theology; in the spring of 1866, he was appointed Tutor in said institution; in 1869, Principal of the Preparatory Department, and Assistant Professor of Greek; in 1873, Professor of Natural History; and in 1878, Professor of Greek and History, which position he now holds. In 1869, he was married to Ella Sanderson, of Springfield, Ohio; Miss Sanderson was the daughter of J.. Sanderson, a lawyer of Philadelphia, editor of the Daily News of that city; in 1861, Chief Clerk to Simon Cameron, Secretary of War; and afterward Colonel in the regular army. Miss Sanderson received her education in the schools of Philadelphia and in the Springfield Seminary, from which she graduated in 1866.
JOSEPH RHODES, mechanic, Terre Haute. Among the many good men represented in the Champaign County History, Joseph and Noah Rhodes may be classed. Joseph came from Shenandoah Co., Va., in 1835. He had for an objective point Harrison Co., Ind., but, after passing one winter there, and being much dissatisfied, started on his return to Virginia ; he was out of money when he reached this county, and engaged with John Reynolds for a year; in the fall of 1836, he visited his old home, and, in the spring of 1837, he returned, accompanied by his brother Noah and two other men ; they commenced working by the month, and Joseph worked five years in this way. when he commenced the manufacture of boots and shoes in Judge Runkle's store; Noah worked four years and went back to Virginia living there until 1456,
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when he returned to Champaign Co., bringing with him a wife and three children; Joseph had, in the meantime, saved money enough to enter a quarter-section of land in Indiana ; in 1845, he traded this for a tract west of John Bryan's farm, and again raded this for 160 acres on Mad River; on this be built a mill, and afterward sold it o Abram Powell and purchased the farm upon which he now resides; Noah purchased 5 acres of his brother Joseph, and another tract adjoining; they farmed in partnership or fourteen years, dividing the profits ; during this time, Noah purchased 60 acres nore land, and his oldest son, Jacob, lives on the tract; one son was born after coming o this county, and the death of one of the others occurred. They are ranked among our best men, and are a credit to the township; they are both Greenback men, and think their party should triumph. Joseph makes his home with his brother Noah, and is one of our confirmed bachelors. They are both exemplary men, and enjoy a high degree of prosperity.
JOHN RICHARDSON, general dealer in groceries, etc., Westville. The gentleman whose name beads this sketch keeps the only general store in Westville. He has a substantial business, and his store is a great accommodation to the people in this neighborhood. He is also Postmaster, and has the office located in his place of business. . This adds something to his trade. Mr. Richardson was born in Crawford Co., Ohio, in 1845, and his parents, George and Eve (Slifer) Richardson, came to this county in 1846. They were parents of Amos and John, our subject. Mr. R. died in the fall of 1846, and Mrs. Richardson was married to Daniel Parrott in 1849. They had six children, three sons and three daughters-Aaron, Mary, Franklin C., Reuben W., Ruth E. and Eve Lettie. All the children of the second marriage are living, except Ruth E. and Amos. The eldest son of the first marriage was killed at the battle of Petersburg July 30, 1864. He was First Lieutenant of Co., 27th U. S. Colored Troops. John Richardson acquired a good education during his boyhood, being a graduate of Miami Commercial College, Class of 1865. He commenced teaching Sept. 14, 1863, and taught fourteen years in Champaign County, and two years in Johnson Co., Mo. His marriage to Miss Alice Smith, a daughter of the last wife of David Loudenback, was celebrated Oct. 8, 1874. They have had two children-Annie was born Aug. 26, 1875, and is still living; and Mima, born Sept. 7, 1879, who died March 9, 1880. Both Mr. and Mrs. Richardson are members of the Nettle Creek Baptist Church. He is an enterprising business man, and has the confidence of the community in which he does business.
A. P. ROHRER, farmer; P. O. Urbana. Is one of the popular men of the township, and represents an honorable name in this county. His father, Daniel Rohrer, was a native of Pennsylvania, and came to this State a comparatively poor man. He walked from his home in Pennsylvania to this county, then back to Pennsylvania, and again returned on foot to keep from spending his money. He invested his money in a mill and stillhouse that is located on the Westville Pike, on Mad River. His capital of $2,000 was all gone before his work was completed, and he would have utterly failed, but a loan was effected which completed his mill, and in the short space of fifteen years he had paid all indebtedness and had amassed the snug sum of $45,000. He was a hard worker, and a man whom every one trusted, and their faith was never betrayed. He married Sarah Loudenback April 5, 1834, and reared four children; one son died in infancy; Martin is the eldest; A. P. Rohrer, Mary A. and Christian F. These are all married, and, with the exception of our subject, have been twice married. Mrs. Rohrer died April 1, 1874, and she lies by the side of her husband, in Nettle Creek graveyard. An elegant monument marks their resting place. Abram P. Rohrer, of whom we now write, was married to Miss Francis A. Logan, of this county, in 1858. He has since this time made agriculture and rearing of fine stock his business. He has some young horses as highly bred as any in the State of Ohio. His farm is one of the splendid ones in the Mad River Valley, and very productive. He is a good financier, and is a wealthy man, and intends soon to have a nice residence of the modern
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style. As his father was one of the prominent men of this township, his memory, as well as the family history, should be perpetuated. Abram has been for a number of years connected with the public schools, and is Democratic in politics.
JOHN A. SHAFFER, SR., farmer; P. O. St. Paris. Was married to Miss Mary Wood, in Shenandoah Co., Va., in 1838; she was a daughter of Benjamin and Sally Wood; she was born in 1810, and John in 1811. They emigrated to Champaign Co. in 1846, and purchased the farm upon which he resides, in 1852. Previous to this time, he rented the farm lying south of his purchase. They came to this county poor but industrious people, and their energy and industry have brought their reward, as he now owns a splendid farm of 82 acres, which makes him a comfortable home and brings him a nice income. Three of their children-Sarah J., Ann R. and Mary C.-were born in Virginia; Abram, Allen and Philip in this county; all of whom are married and live near their father; Rebecca, who married James Lodgon, resides in Kansas. Mr. Shaffer has made all the improvements now visible on his farm, which will remain a monument to his memory long after he is gone. During all his life he has been a model man, doing unto others as he would have them do unto him. He was well acquainted with the pioneers of the township, among whom were Joseph Loudenback, Jacob Baker, Andy Blue, Martin Idle, and Simon Baker (who is now the oldest man in the county), John W. Grafton, Thomas Grafton, Ambrose Grafton, and quite a number others. Mrs. Shaffer has been a member of the Baptist Church for thirty years, and her husband of the Lutheran Church for forty-six years. Their descendants may look back with pride on their ancestry, as being people respected by all, and well worthy the confidence reposed in them.
SAMUEL E. SOWERS, farmer; P. O. Westville. The parents of our subject were early settlers of Pennsylvania, coming to Perry Co. in 1804. Their names were Henry Sowers and Elizabeth Koser. They were married probably in 1832 ; they had five children-Isabella, Samuel (our subject), Jacob, Elmanda and Mary A. The parents are still living in Pennsylvania, and all the children are living and are doing well. The grandparents of Samuel were natives of Maryland on his father's side, and of Pennsylvania on his mother's. In 1859, Mr. Sowers arrived in Westville and formed a partnership with Jacob Aulabaugh, which was continued eighteen months. Jan. 8, 1861, he was wedded to Miss Eunice E. Blose, daughter of Daniel and Susan Blose. They were among the wealthiest, and Daniel was one of the most energetic and successful men of this township. He left his children a large patrimony. In December, Mr. Sowers, having previously sold his interest in the store, came to the farm which is now his home. He purchased the land of his father-in-law, Mr. Blose, in 1871, paying for the same $100 per acre; this land is one of the landmarks of this county, and was entered by Thomas Kenton, one of the first settlers; the block-house mentioned in the history of Mad River Township, was built where Mr. Sowers' garden is now. Mr. and Mrs. Sowers are the parents of five children-Lilly V., Daniel H., Mary L., John J. and Emery. They may feel proud of being born on the land of which we have spoken, that has since been so splendidly improved by their father, who is a man noted for his splendid business qualifications and his honorable character.
DAVID STEINBERGER, farmer; P. O. Urbana. Mr. Steinberger is one of our oldest men, and is now in his 81st year; his grandparents came from Germany and settled in Shenandoah Co., Va. David's parents-John and Elizabeth Steinberger-were married in Virginia, and came to this county in 1804, and settled on Nettle Creek, near where Millerstown is now. This was at that time an Indian village, and was occupied by the Miami tribe. Indians were plenty at that day but were peaceable. The heavy timber was almost unbroken at that time, and wild game was plenty ; raccoons destroyed much corn; and they had to watch their fields at night to save it; squirrels were almost as destructive during the day as the coons were at night. Everybody helped their neighbors raise their log houses, roll and burn their logs, and a general feeling of good-fellowship prevailed. John Steinberger was a prominent man in his
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day, and was an enterprising one, having no money when he came here. When he left the county for Indiana, in 1819 or 1820, he owned 240 acres of land. His children were named George, John, Henry, Frederick, David and Gideon. Elizabeth and Catharine were the daughters. Only our subject and Gideon, who lives in Iowa, are living. David was born in Virginia Sept. 9, 1800, and was married, in 1821, to Elizabeth Pence. Their name figures extensively in this history. David and his wife were parents of seven children, only three-Louisa M., Mary A. and George S.-are living. Mrs. S. died in 1833, and in 1835 David married Lucy Gaines, of Virginia, where she was born, Feb. 22, 1813. By her he had eight children, five of whom are living Caroline, Elizabeth, Amanda, John and Gideon. David started in life with $50, which was spent in trying to regain his health, which was very poor in his younger days. He went bravely to work, married a wife, and commenced life in earnest. This reminds us of a story which Mr. Steinberger relates : "A man (name forgotten) with whom David stayed all night, on Little Flat Rock, Indiana, married his wife when she was only 15 years of age. They had been married fifteen years and had fifteen children, whose mother was only 30 years of age. When they were married, they had not a dollar, and after rearing this large family they had bought and paid for 400 acres of land, and were then engaged in building a mill." After sixty years of toil, commencing without any capital, except a pair of willing hands, Mr. Steinberger is now the owner of 952 acres of land, worth $75,000, not counting personal property, etc., and also a residence in Urbana. All this was gained by honest toil and economy. Both himself and wife are of the Baptist faith, and are now living at their ease on the farm, near the mills that bear his name. Politically, he is Democratic, one of the substantial kind, and is honored and respected by the best citizens of Champaign County.
SIMEON TAYLOR, farmer and Justice of the Peace; P. O. Westville. The subject of this sketch is one of the prominent men of Mad River Township; he is a son of Benjamin S. and Sarah (Miller) Taylor. Benjamin was a native of Tennessee, coming to this county probably in 1810; he was born July 24, 1805. Sarah Miller, his wife, was born July 31, 1796, in Loudoun Co.. Va.; her parents emigrated to this county in 1818. Benjamin Taylor and Sarah Miller were married July 28, 1830 ; they were parents of three children-Sarah A., Darius, and Simeon, our subject; all the children are married and living in this county. Simeon was born June 7, 1838, and his boyhood was spent on the farm; he attended high school in Urbana in 1859 and 1860, and afterward attended mercantile college at Cleveland, Ohio; he commenced teaching school in the winter of 1860, and was, for eight consecutive terms, teacher in his own district ; he engaged afterward in teaching for several terms, and acquired a good record, as may be known by his long continuance in the same district. During this time, he became engaged to and married Miss Susan Ward, Oct. 1, 1863, since which time he has devoted his attention almost exclusively to agricultural pursuits; they have four children-Alonzo W., Laura 0., David E. and Bertha R.; Alonzo was born April 5, 1866; Laura, Feb. 22, 1868; David, July 24, 1870 ; and Bertha, Sept. 2, 1872. Mr. Taylor was Township Treasurer in 1871, and, in the fall of 1878, was elected Justice of the Peace of Mad River Township ; his judgment as a Justice is good, having as yet no decisions reversed; he takes the place of Squire David Loudenback, universally acknowledged one of the best Justices ever serving in this township. Mr. Taylor has lately purchased the farm upon which he now resides, and is fitting it up nicely; he has recently built a fine barn, and otherwise added much to the beauty and convenience of the farm. His parents were among the pioneers of this county, and did their share toward its development; his mother was one of ten children, of whom Mary, the eldest (now 92 years of age), is still living; also one brother, Nathan, aged 76, who resides in Sangamon Co., Ill.; many of the old veterans have passed away since their time, and they, too, will soon take their departure. Mr. Taylor's parents died-the father, in 1854, and the wife and mother in 1880; they were estimable people, and their children do honor to their name. Mr. Taylor owns 224 acres of fine land, which brings him a nice revenue ; he lives at his ease; one mile west of the village-
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of Westville, and devotes his time to superintending his estates and attending to his official duties; he is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., and also of the Grange. Mrs. Taylor is a direct descendant of the first settlers of this county, her father, Noah Ward, dying when she was quite young; her grandfather, George Ward, reared a large family, which is well represented in this township. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor- are both members of the M. E. Church ; their home is a pleasant one, and a more genial host and hostess will be hard to find.
JAMES E. VINCENT, miller, Urbana. This gentleman is one of the prominent business men of Mad River Township. He came to Westville Nov. 13, 1857, bringing with him his young wife Adelaide V., daughter of William and. Annie Catlett, of Virginia; she is the youngest of eighteen children, and Mr. Vincent the eldest of twelve. Mr. Vincent was the owner of a team, had a $20 gold piece and 80 cents in silver upon his arrival, and by his own industry and honesty now represents a business of $'50,000 per year. His father was a miller, from whom he learned his trade, and their ancestry for almost a century have been connected with this business. Mr. Vincent has for thirty-five years been a master mechanic, and today stands at the head of his trade ; his flour is worth from 50 to 75 cents per barrel more than any other mill in the county; his trade in New York alone averages $1,000 per week, and the custom work also averaging 1,000 bushels per month. As a man, he is the equal of any of our townsmen for veracity and correctness of purpose. His children may always look with pride upon their line of ancestry. He is one of the few Virginians in this locality who is a Republican. His children are six in number, five living Alton F., William E., Joseph, Emma and Ada. The saw-mill in connection with his flouring establishment annually cuts 2,500,600 feet of lumber. His books are systematically kept and will show a balance in his favor equaling that of any miller in the county. He is full of the old time cordiality, and is an honor to the community in which he lives.
SYLVESTER WARD, farmer: P. O. Westville. We are proud of the representatives of so large a number of the pioneer families of this township. Although many of the early pioneers are gone, their children still live, and can give much valuable information in regard to the first settlements and the style and manner of living. The parents of Mr. Ward, our subject, were of the old Virginia stock; they were not the first settlers in this township, but came here about 1815. They settled on the farm now the property of Mr. Ward, and built a cabin in the dense woods. He probably entered the land, as there was considerable Government land. Most of the settlers were natives of Shenandoah Co., Va., as were the parents of Sylvester Ward. The neighbors helped each other roll the logs together, as they had to be burned to make room for the crops. There were numerous Indian camps in the neighborhood when George Ward and his wife came, but during the next few years all went further West. The children were ten in number, and they were able to do much toward helping to clear up the land. The old structure called "Gard's Mill" was the first one erected in this neighborhood; this was long since pulled down. Game was plenty, but very few of the early settlers took much time to hunt. They carried their produce to Cincinnati on wagons ; corn was then carted from this place to that city and sold for 20 to 25 cents per bushel. In all this work, women as well as men did their share. They could chop and grub, and some of them could reap wheat equal to any of the men. Wages were low, harvest hands getting 50 cents per day. The first church was built on the site now occupied by the Nettle Creek Baptist Church, and the Baptists formed the first congregation. Harrison Faulkner was the first teacher Sylvester had, and the log schoolhouse was furnished with seats made by splitting logs and putting in wooden pins for legs; without backs. Order was the subject most thoroughly taught, and the education of most of the children at that time was limited. Sylvester was born in 1826, and, after helping his father clear and otherwise improve his land until the age of 25, was married to Miss Louisa A. Smith, in 1851; they commenced housekeeping in a little house in his father's yard; this structure is still standing. Their life
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was passed as those of most people engaged in agricultural pursuits, steadily increasing their possessions, and daily becoming, by energy and economy, more wealthy, until they now rank among the rich people of the township. They have four children-Philander, Loretta, Fernando and Runetta ; Philander married Mary Straddling, of this county, and resides near the -old farm; Loretta is the wife of James M. Frank, also living in this county; and Runetta married Elijah Heck, of Champaign Co., and resides near St. Paris. The old homestead is in possession of Mr. Ward, who has added a number of acres since commencing business. He is a solid Democrat, and is also one of the most highly respected men of his neighborhood. His residence is a nice one ; be is a genial host, and his lady one of the neatest housewives to be found.
SYLVANUS S. WARD, farmer; P. O. Westville. One of the pioneers of this county was George Ward, who came here about 1815 and settled near the farm that is now owned by his son, whose name heads this sketch. George and his wife, Catharine Strickler, were both born in Shenandoah Co., Va. They were married and had three children before coming to Ohio-Barbara, Maria and Noah. The land was then open for entry, and, although the beautiful Mad River Valley was unclaimed as yet, he preferred the upland, which to him seemed most desirable, as (coming from the mountain ous regions of Virginia) it seemed level enough for farming purposes. The people then thought that springs afforded the only water fit to be used, and as there were plenty along the ravines, they preferred a home in close proximity to such conveniences as they were accustomed to. There were still Indians in the neighborhood, who frequently came in for something to eat; they were always friendly and well disposed. George entered a tract of land and erected a small cabin, that was succeeded by a hewed-log house. Clearing was the general occupation of the settlers, except those that preferred hunting and trapping, of whom we have already several accounts. The settlements were largely increased, mostly by emigrants from Virginia. The family of George increased from three to eleven children, among them were twins; they were of much service in helping to clear up the land and get it ready for the plough. The names of the children were Ambrose, Jerusha, Gideon, Joseph, Sylvanus and Sylvester (twins), Ededemon and Sabra. Noah and Ambrose are the only children now deceased. Their descendants are numerous, and mostly live in this county. The death of the father occurred in 1867, and that of the wife and mother two years later; they were a highly estimable couple, and lived to see the dream of their youthful days realized. Sylvanus was married to Priscilla Smith, whose grandfather was one of the first settlers of this township; the wedding was celebrated in 1849, since which time they have followed in the footsteps of their ancestors, beginning where they left off, and to-day, the log cabin first erected, is replaced by a stately residence. They are the parents of eleven children, ten sons and one daughter; they were named Franklin, Edwin, Eusebia, Theodore, Noah, Clement V., Smith, Thompson P., Charles H., Oren H. and Sylvan O.; Edwin was married to Miss Isabel B. Loudenback, Eusebia wedded Thomas W. Jenkins; there are sons enough to perpetuate the family name for centuries to come. This is one of the first families in the neighborhood, social, refined and highly respected. Mr. Ward is a Democratic bred and born, and is always at the polls on election day; both himself and wife are members of the Old-School Baptist Church, and are rearing their family in accordance with its teachings.
NELSON WEAVER, farmer; P. O. Terre Haute. William and Mary E. Weaver, the parents of our subject, came to this county in 1803; they were natives of Virginia, and emigrated from that State to Kentucky, and afterward came to this county at the time previously mentioned; they entered the land now the farm of our subject, which was from a dense forest transformed into a fertile and beautiful farm. The settlers built a block-house on what is called the Ross farm, for the protection of their families from the Indians, which at that time were very numerous; several skirmishes took place between the early settlers and Indians, but no pitched battle. William and Mary Weaver were parents of fourteen children-three of whom, William, Nancy and
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Nelson. are living William married Rebecca Baker;. Nancy is the wife of Erastus Wilson, and Nelson is still a bachelor Nelson owns the old home farm upon which he was born, and takes fife easy. He rears a large amount of stock and rents his farm, which brings in a nice income. He is a popular man in his neighborhood and enjoys the reputation of being a man of correct business habits. The Weaver Brothers have always been prosperous men and are well worthy the name they bear.
SIMON W. WHITMORE, farmer; P. O. Westville. The grandfather of our subject was one of the pioneers in this township, settling where Simon now lives. He was a native of Virginia, and emigrated from that State in 1804. He entered a quarter section, built a cabin and began clearing up the heavy timber; there were only a few set tlers in the neighborhood, and Indians were plenty. Their camps were numerous along Nettle Creek, and they were very friendly. The settlers had built a block house (for the protection of their wives and children should the Indians make demonstrations of hostility) near where Benjamin Gard now lives. Only once did they flee to the fort, and that was a false alarm. He had four children-David, Jacob, Joseph, and Mary, who is still living with Mr. Whitmore. David lived a bachelor during his lifetime, and died in 1870, at the age of 72; Jacob, the father of Simon, was married to Catharine Zimmerman, probably in 1827. He had seven children, four of whom are living Barbara, the wife of Charles Dagger; Sarah J., the wife of M. W. Barger; Elizabeth, the wife of Leonard Barger, and Simon W., our subject. Jacob died in 1868, his wife still survives, and makes her home with her son. He is an energetic man, and owns an extensive farm. From his residence a commanding view of the country can be obtained, as the elevation above the land is seventy-five feet. It presents the most commanding appearance of any house in the neighborhood. He was wedded to Elizabeth Wiant in 1859. They are the parents of Sylvia, Minnie, Samuel and Dottie Whitmore. The family are an intelligent one, and Mr. Whitmore enjoys an excellent reputation among his neighbors. They are both members of the Myrtle Tree Baptist Church. Representing as they do the old pioneers of this county, we are glad to give them a place in this history.
JASPER WIANT, farmer; P. O. Westville. This gentleman represents the " John Wiant" branch of the family, of whom were two brothers, John and Adam, natives of Page Co., Va., who came here at an early date. Both are long since dead, but their descendants are numerous. Jasper is a son of Bradbury and Jerusha (Ward) Wiant. Bradbury was John's eldest son, and his wife was a native of this township. They settled on a beautiful farm in the Nettle Creek Valley, that is equal, perhaps, to any in the township. For many years he was one of our most successful men, and everything prospered with him. They were parents of Elizabeth, who married Simon W. Whitmore, whose family is represented in this history; Jasper, who married Miss Mary C. Chance; Sarah, who is the wife of Festus Steinberger; Sabra, who wedded Elias Riegle ; James B. and John B., twins (John married Melissa Taylor) ; and Tul lie M. Wiant. The old folks reside on the old home farm, which was rendered dear by their lifetime of hard labor and the birth of their children. Jasper and his wife have six children-Alla, Susan, Edgar T., Lucy, Elmer C. and Laura. The parents were married in 1864, and Mr. Wiant has been a practical farmer all his life. He obtained a common-school education during his boyhood, and has turned it to good account in his business. He is a Democrat, and has never voted any other ticket. Mr. Wiant is a member of Urbana Lodge, No. 8, A. F. and A. M., and is, in all respects, a woman and good neighbor John Wiant and Elizabeth Metz were married in 1819. John came to Ohio in 1816. They were both natives of Virginia ; he operated a large tannery, and was one of the leading citizens of his day. His farmhouse was built in 1829, and was probably the best house in the county when completed; be served in the war of 1812, and during one of his engagements partially lost his hearing. His wife was 56 years of age at the time of her death, and be reached the age of 73. He had wonderful physical endurance, and reared ; family of t :n children, all of them living except two.