HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY - 225

CHAPTER XXIV.

RAILROADS, TELEGRAPH AND EXPRESS COMPANIES.

SANDUSKY, MANSFIELD & NEWARK RAILROAD-FIRST

TRAINS-AGENTS- CLEVELAND, MOUNT VERNON & DELA-

WARE RAILROAD - FIRST THROUGH TRAIN-THE OHIO

CENTRAL -A COAL ROAD-TELEGRAPH-ITS MIGRATORY

OFFICE-TELEGRAPH AS A DETECTIVE -EXPRESS COMPANIES.

The coach stands rusting in the yard,.

The horse has sought the plow;

We have spanned the world with iron rails,

The steam-king rules us now.

KNOX county contains a portion of one of the oldest railroads in Ohio, the Sandusky, Mansfield &. Newark (now the Lake Erie division of the Baltimore & Ohio). That portion lying north of Mansfield was chartered March 12, 1836, as the Mansfield & New Haven railroad, and extended from Mansfield to a point a short distance west of the village of New Haven, in the southern part of Huron county. Prior to the building of this railroad, a charter, dated March 9, 1835, had been granted to the Sandusky & Monroeville railroad, running from one city to the other, This latter road, thirteen miles long, was completed prior to the former road (the Mansfield & New Haven).

The purchase of the Monroeville & Sandusky City road by the Mansfield & New Haven road, gave the latter corporations direct control of a line from Mansfield to the lake. The road as consolidated was fifty-four miles in length, and had a busy traffic. Prior to 1853 the road enjoyed a monopoly of the grain trade of this part of Ohio.

The construction of the road-bed was solid, if a multiplicity of timbers could make it so. First a "mud-sill" was laid down lengthwise of the road; strong cross-ties were then spiked on this "mud-sill;' into these, "gains," as they were called, were cut, which received the wooden rails, sawed to fit the "gains." These rails were about five inches wide, broadening out as they entered the "gains," and were about seven inches high. On them the "ribbon " was spiked, being a strip of hard-wood about two and a half inches wide, by one inch thick, and on this the strap-iron rail was laid. Spikes were driven through the strap-rail and the ribbon into the large wooden rail underneath. The heads of the spikes were sunken into "eyes " in the strap rails, leaving a smooth surface for the wheels. This superstructure required three times as much timber as the present system of ties and iron rails.

An extension further south than Mansfield began to be agitated before the road was put in running order. Considerable opposition was, however, exhibited among many classes of citizens of Mansfield, who firmly maintained the opinion that a prosperous railroad town must be a terminal point. A charter for a road, known as the Columbus & Lake Erie railroad, was

226 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

granted March 12, 1845, and, five or six years after, a road was built between Mansfield and Newark, where it could connect with a road to Columbus, known then as the Ohio Central railroad, now a part of the Baltimore & Ohio, and which was completed in 1854, so that transportation was begun. That part of this road running through Richland county, south from Mansfield, was mainly built by Mr. Frederick M. Fitting. He began the work in January, 1850, at Mansfield, doing the grading, furnishing the ties, and laying the iron. By August he had the road in running order, and his construction train running to Lexington. He went on south in the construction of the road, doing the entire work from Mansfield to a point about six miles south of Bellville. The part through Knox and Licking counties was built at the same time, so that, by January, 1851, the cars went on to Newark. The two roads-the Mansfield & Sandusky City and the Columbus & Lake Erie-continued under separate organizations until November 23, 1853, when they were consolidated and took the name of the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark railroad. Each corporation was burdened with debt and judgment, and had hoped by uniting, to establish a road that would meet the past liabilities and maintain itself in the future. This did not prove to be the case, and under an act of the legislature, passed April 8, 1856, the road and property were sold and the company reorganized. Owing to various delays, the deed of conveyance from the old to the new company was not made until March 29, 1865, several years after the sale had been made, and after the new company had taken charge of the road. This organization remained the same until February 13, 1869, when a contract was entered into by and between the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark, the Ohio Central, and the Baltimore & Ohio railroads, whereby the first named came under control of the last named, and is now operated by that extensive corporation.

During the month of June, 1847, the work on the south end of the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark railroad was put under contract from Newark to the Richland county line. The work was not commenced until about the first of August the same year. Of the contractors the names of but a few can be given at this late date. Mr. Joseph M. Byers, then of Newark, in company with Mr. A. Channell and Mr. A. J. Haughey, obtained the fifth, eighth, fourteenth, and nineteenth mile, the latter contract ending at Hunt's Station. Mr. Peter Davis had a mile contract' near Utica, and Mr. Frederick Bumphus the contract near Mt. Vernon. During the fall of 1850 the construction train made its appearance at Dry creek. The bridges over Dry creek and the Kokosing were being rapidly pushed to completion. The work on the north end was being hurried. In the Banner, of December 3, 1850, the following notice appears: "Hereafter the Newark, or eastern mail, will arrive in the cars at nine o'clock in the morning, and go out at four o'clock in the evening. The Columbus mail will be sent via Newark in a short time." And in its issue of January 7, 1851, the Banner says: "The whole railroad line between Newark and Sandusky city is finally completed, and last night (January 6th), a train of four cars passed Mt. Vernon, presenting quite a fine appearance." The connecting of the two ends of the road was effected January 5, 1851, thus giving to Mt. Vernon its first complete railroad.

The first building used for depot purposes was the brick residence formerly owned by the late Daniel S. Norton, now owned and occupied by James Worley. The following gentlemen have been agents of the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark railroad and the Lake Erie division of the Baltimore & Ohio company, as it is now styled: T. C. McEwen, James Blake, Captain Ingram, and Joseph M. Byers. Mr. Blake was agent many years; and was succeeded by Messrs. Patterson & White, John W. White, P. H. Burke, D. P. Wooten, and J. C. Patterson.

March 17, 1851, by authority of an act passed February 17, 1851 (49 O. L. 464), "to amend an act to incorporate the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad company," passed March 14, 1836, "the Akron branch of the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad company," was organized as a separate and distinct company to construct a branch railroad from Hudson, Summit county, via Cuyahoga Falls and Akron, to Wooster, or some other point between Wooster and Massillon, to connect with the Pennsylvania railroad, and any other railroad running in the direction of Columbus.

The act of March 24, 1851 (40 O. L. 542), authorized the commissioners of Summit county to subscribe one hundred thousand dollars to the capital stock of the company.

The road was constructed from Hudson to Millersburgh, Holmes county, sixty-one miles, and was known and operated as the "Akron Branch" until, by order of the court of common pleas of Summit county, entered at the March term, 1853, the name of the company was changed to "Cleveland, Zanesville & Cincinnati Railroad company." Certificate filed in the office of the secretary of state, March 17, 1853- (Record of corporation No. I, p. 159),

The company became embarrassed, and suit being brought August 27, 1861, in the Summit

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 227

county common pleas court, for foreclosure of mortgage and sale of the road, a receiver was appointed in the case, by whom, under the direction of the court, the road was operated until November 2, 1864, when, pursuant to order of the court, the entire road, property and franchises of the company were sold at public auction for three hundred thousand dollars to George W. Cass and John J. Marvin, who, on the first day of July, 1865, following, conveyed the said road and property thus vested in them by deed to the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railway company, who owned and operated it until they, by contract dated June 27, 1869, leased in perpetuity to the Pennsylvania Railroad company to take .effect July 1, 1869, its own railway proper, including the Cleveland, Zanesville & Cincinnati railroad and its leased lines.

The Pittsburgh, Mount Vernon, Columbus & London Railroad company was incorporated by filing its certificate of organization in the office of the secretary of State May 11, 1869 (Record of Corporations No. 6, p. 314), road to be constructed from a point in Wayne county, on the line of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago railway, at or near Orville, through the counties of Holmes, Knox, Licking, Delaware, Franklin, through Columbus, to Madison county, at or near London.

November 1, 1869, this company acquired, by deed from G. A. Jones, trustee, etc., all that portion of the Springfield, Mount Vernon & Pittsburgh railroad (being only partly graded), extending east from Delaware, through Mount Vernon, in the direction of Millersburgh, forty-three miles, which was by him purchased at judicial sale August 31, 1857, under proceedings in Knox county common pleas court. The consideration for this conveyance was one thousand shares, of the par value of fifty thousand dollars, of the capital stock of the said Pittsburgh, Mount Vernon, Columbus & London Railroad company.

November 4, 1869, the Pennsylvania Railroad company and the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad company, sold and transferred by deed the entire Cleveland, Zanesville & Cincinnati railroad, extending from Hudson to the coal mines southwest of Millersburgh, a distance of sixty-five miles, and all its machinery, rolling stock, equipment, fixtures, etc., to the Pittsburgh, Mount Vernon, Columbus & London Railroad company, the consideration being twenty-two thousand shares of the fully paid. up capital stock of the company purchasing, the par value of which was one million one hundred thousand dollars; the latter company assuming the payment of a mortgage debt on said conveyed premises of one hundred and forty-three thousand dollars.

On the same day an assignment was made to the company-being one condition of the sale and purchase aforesaid-of the lease of the Massillon and Cleveland railroad, extending from Massillon to Canton, twelve and a half miles, which had passed into the possession of the Pennsylvania Railroad company July r, 1869, with the property and other leased lines of the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago Railroad company.

December 6, 1869, George W. Cass and wife and John J. Martin and wife executed to the Pittsburgh, Mount Vernon, Columbus & London Railroad company a deed of confirmation of the Cleveland, Zanesville & Cincinnati railroad, thereby vesting any title or rights in said road possessed by said parties in said Pittsburgh, Mount Vernon, Columbus & London Railroad company.

December 20, 1869, the name of the company, by decree of Knox county common pleas court was changed to Cleveland, Mount Vernon & Delaware Railroad company. Certificate filed in the office of the secretary of State December 22, 1869.

December 17, 1872, a supplemental certificate was filed for constructing a branch from the main line in Holmes county, through Coshocton county, to a connection near Dresden, Muskingum county, with the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati & St. Louis and the Cincinnati & Muskingum Valley railways, thirty-three miles. Report of June 30, 1874, shows seventeen miles graded on the Dresden branch, and an expenditure, including rails, etc., of over two hundred thousand dollars.

The main line was completed to Columbus, and the running of through trains commenced September r, 1873.

The Ohio Central railroad passes through Hillier township, It is, or will be, a coal road. But few if any of the financiers of the county are interested pecuniarily. The people of Centerburgh and Hilliar township are the most deeply interested in

228 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

this road. Centerburgh has already felt its influence by the increase of business. During the past year over thirty dwellings and stores have been erected.

The following extract from a Cincinnati paper gives a little inside history of this road:

The line now known as the Ohio Central railroad, owned by a powerful syndicate of wealthy capitalists, and which is on the eve of completion between one of the most wonderful deposits of coal and the northern lakes, has had an eventful history. The enterprise had its origin in a project for building a road from Pomeroy to Toledo, which was first agitated in 1868-69. Hon. V. B. Horton was for a time president of the company, which was known as the Atlantic and Lake Erie. Nothing was done of any consequence, however, until General Thomas Ewing, of Lancaster, was put at the head of the corporation. Under his management an immense amount of money was spent on the Moxahala tunnel and the difficult portion of the road near its southern terminus, and the rails were put down as far as Union Station, a short distance west of Newark, where the road crosses the Pan-Handle. Just then the panic came on and the company was left with an uncompleted section of road, no rolling stock worth speaking of, and a solitary locomotive, which the excursionists, as they inspected their property last week, saw dumped beside the track, near Moxahala tunnel. Rusty and dismantled, the worn-out iron monster was a fitting monument for the financial ruin that overtook President Ewing and the great majority of his associates who first set out to build the line.

The track lay rusting, and the ties rotted in the rain, for several years unused, when the property was sold out under the order of the Crawford county court of common pleas, by Daniel Babst, master commissioner, and bought in by J. T. Brooks, solicitor for the Pennsylvania Central interest. Since the original projectors had started in to build the road, the Hocking Valley railroad interest had completed its own line, known as the Columbus & Toledo, to the lakes, and was in successful operation. The incentives for completing the Atlantic & Lake Erie to Toledo were not promising, as the coal trade, which was almost the sole dependence of the line, had been much depressed for years; and established companies were scarcely earning more than their expenses. Under these circumstances, the road was an elephant on the hands of the purchasers at the Bucyrus sale, even if they got it at about the price of the iron rails. In the spring of 1879 Governor Foster, who had been associated with Ewing in the Atlantic & Lake Erie failure, and a number of capitalists met here, and, after a brief conference, satisfied themselves that they could turn the incomplete road into a bonanza for themselves by diverting it to Columbus. All that was necessary for them to do was to build twenty-six miles of new line between this city and Bush's Station, take the Atlantic & Lake Erie track from there to Corning all ready for the cars, and the thing was done. The finished road-bed was procured for a song, as compared to its cost to the Ewing syndicate, and the iron on the part north of Bush's, which was not to be operated, could be utilized in laying the track on the twenty-six miles to be built, so as to bring the road into Columbus. The company organized as the Columbus & Sunday Creek Valley railroad, and there was never perhaps in the history of Ohio railroad construction a larger bonanza than fell into their hands almost without effort. They had scarcely closed their contracts for the supplies and rolling stock necessary to get their road running before the business boom which followed the panic set in, and in addition to a tremendous rise in the value of the assets of the Atlantic & Lake Erie they had the benefit of a tremendous rise in railroad property of all kinds. There were but seven or eight men in the original Sunday Creek company, and before this ' road was completed, after an interval of but a few months, and without having risked scarcely any money, they were able to sell out at an individual profit of $73,000.

Governor Foster had with him in the original Sunday Creek Valley syndicate Calvin S. Brice, of Lima, long associated with him in the Lake Erie & Louisville road; General :Manager Caldwell, of the Pan-Handle, General Thomas, of this city; Josephus Collett, president of the Evansville, Terre Haute & Chicago road, and the firm of Perkins, Livingston & Post, of New York, who were the main reliance of the syndicate in the sale of the bonds of the new corporation: Collett and the :yew York firm dropped out of the arrangement as soon as it was fairly on its feet.

Had the capitalists who invested in the Sunday Creek Valley enterprise confined themselves to the original idea of a coal road between Corning and Columbus they would have had a line costing but a fourth as much as the Hocking Valley, with every prospect of an income nearly as good ; but they had underestimated one item, and that was the cost of completing the Moxahala tunnel. Governor Foster told the writer some time ago that, had they known what it would cost to finish the work on the tunnel, he and his associates would never have entered into the Sunday Creek enterprise. As he put it, they had not enough miles of road to bond, if they confined themselves to the Columbus coal road idea, and an extension was necessary, so as to float more bonds. The result was a reorganization of the Sunday Creek Valley company and the formation of the Ohio Central in its place, which change was made early last winter. The original intention at that time was to make the northern terminus at Fostoria, and the lake port for the road at Sandusky, which could be reached by joining with the Lake Erie & Western road. After some delay it was decided to push on to Toledo, and but ten miles more of track remain to be laid until j that is done. The general office of the company will then be removed from this city to Toledo. A large tract of river front has been purchased there, and it is the intention to begin the erection of buildings for terminal facilities at an early day.

The shipments of coal over the Ohio Central, according to Superintendent Hadley, are fifty cars a day. There was some falling off on account of the strike in September. The road is receiving large numbers of coal-cars from Detroit and Lafayette and new engines from the Brooks Locomotive works, and a large increase in business will follow as soon as the company can handle it.

The road is being extended south from Corning, so as to penetrate eighteen miles further into the c-al region. This will be done by going down the valley eight miles and returning on another fork of Sunday creek to within three miles of Corning. In this way an immense amount of fresh coal territory will he opened.

At the time this sketch was written, the Ohio Central had reached Fostoria. Since then work has been pushed forward rapidly, and the rails are now laid to the city of Toledo.

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 229

In 1849 a few years prior to the advent of the railroad, a telegraph office was opened in Mount Verron, and Mr. John W. White was placed in charge. Two young telegraph experts, of Zanesville, Ohio, Messrs. Kent and Garlock, had undertaken to put up a line of wire from Zanesville to Sandusky. The line ran along the dirt road from Zanesville to Mount Vernon, dropping an office at Irville and Nashport, in Muskingum county; Newark and Granville, in Licking county, and to Mount Vernon via Alexandria, Horner and Brandon, leaving no office between Granville and `Mount Vernon. The first office in Mount Vernon was opened in a room in Hosmer Curtis' brick block, north of the public square. It was immediately over the present bakery of W. A. Tathwell, where it remained several years. Its next abiding place was the room occupied by the meat shop of Winterbotham & Co., and then in the room now occupied by Scribner's drug store, in what was then known as the Booth building. There it remained a number of years. From the last named place it was removed to Abernethy's drug store (now Beardslee & Barr's), where it tarried about one year. The room now occupied as a law office by Abel Hart received it next. In 1861 Mr. Buckingham offering Mr. White a book-keeper's position in his foundry, the telegraph office was removed to his counting room, where it remained until 1865, when it was taken to the depot of the Sandusky, Mansfield & Newark railroad, Mr. White having been appointed Mr. James Blake's assistant in the railroad office.

By the time Kent and Garlock reached Mount Vernon from Zanesville, Mr. J. H. Wade, of Cleveland, had reached Mansfield with a line of wire from Cleveland, on his way with it to Columbus and Cincinnati. Mr. Wade visited Mount Vernon and made overtures to Messrs. Kent and Garlock for the purpose of purchasing their line. A sale was effected, and the Zanesville company was turned over to the Cleveland, Columbus & Cincinnati telegraph company. On a new organization being made, Mr. Wade became its president, and Mr. J. W. White its secretary. Mr. White retained that position a few years, or until the Wade lines became united to the Speed and Cornell eastern lines, when the secretary's office was removed to Rochester, New York. The Wade, the Speed and Cornell and other eastern and western lines united and became widely known in after years as the "Western Union telegraph company." In becoming a part of the union, the Wade lines were put in at twelve dollars a share (the shares being fifty dollars each). Those stockholders of Mount Vernon who owned four shares thought themselves lucky in receiving one share in the Western Union. The small shareholders lost all, and there were quite a number of them.

Many interesting incidents occurred in connection with the telegraph office here, during its early days, one of which, at least, appears of historical importance.

The older citizens of Mount Vernon doubtless remember the Hinton mail robbery. It occurred in the days of Neil, Moore & Company's stage line. Mr. Hinton was the superintendent of the stage line running from Newark to Cleveland via Mount Vernon. Money letters were so frequently missed, that the general post office department placed detectives on the track. A detective visited every post office on the route on the arrival of the mail stage. The losses were sustained between Mount Vernon and Wooster. Another remarkable fact was made known, that all losses occurred on the occasions that Hinton accompanied the stage. Then it took about thirty-six hours to perform the trip; the night driving occurred between Mount Vernon and Wooster. A. J. Smith, then a banker at Newark, ascertaining that Hinton would pass over the route on a certain day, prepared a large decoy package for that day's mail, directed to Cleveland. Arrangements were made at Newark by Smith and General Jones (then United States marshal), at Mount Vernon, that they should have exclusive control of the wire that night after eight o'clock. Smith prepared a complete description of every note in the package, the letter, the number, the bank and denomination. All bills were of small amounts, so as to make the package as large as possible.

Smith had forgotten to furnish Jones with this descriptive sheet-hence the wire came in use. The message received that night was probably the longest local message ever passed over the wires at that early period in the history of telegraphy. At ten o'clock that night Thomas Jones, a brother

230 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

of the marshal, started on horseback for Mansfield with that message in his pocket. At Mansfield he took the train for Cleveland, arriving there at daylight. Hinton was arrested, and bound over for trial. By some means he escaped from the clutches of the law. A few years since, a traveler reported that he met Hinton in Cuba, and recognized him. He bore another name then.

Express companies followed naturally the advent of the railroads. The American was the first to establish an agency in Mt Vernon, the office being at the depot, and up to 1873 the ticket agents were also the express agents. The United States established an office here some years ago, and a company called the Merchant's attempted to do some business about 1866, but failed. Upon the advent of the Cleveland, Mount Vernon & Columbus railroad, the Union express company opened an office in Mount Vernon, placing Mr. W. J. Horner in charge, who subsequently became the only express agent in the city.

A few years since the Baltimore & Ohio company determined to control the express business on that road and opened an office in Mount Vernon, placing it in charge of John W. Stephenson who retains the office at present.

George B. Potwin, in the prosecution of his produce business, was one of the largest shippers by express from Mount Vernon. It was not unusual for him to ship in this way at one time fifty barrels of eggs and a hundred firkins of butter to the New York market. Perhaps the most valuable shipment ever made from the Mount Vernon office in one day, was made by the banks during the war, when fifty thousand dollars in coin was sent to the New York market.

CHAPTER XXV.

KNOX COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.

FORMATION OF THE SOCIETY-GENERAL PROGRESS-RE-

PORTS OF THE FAIRS FROM THE FIRST TO THE PRESENT TIME.

AS agriculture is the avocation of the great majority of the citizens of Knox county, and as it is the principal source of the wealth and prosperity of the county, its introduction and development deserves a place in the county's history.

The first thing the settler had to do, after building his cabin and domiciling his family therein, was to clear off a patch of land for corn and potatoes, in order to secure subsistence as soon as possible, Although the culture of these miniature farms was very imperfect, the implements being rude and clumsy, yet the richness of the virgin soil never failed to produce abundantly.

As the clearing of the pioneer widened, his products became more diversified; rye, oats, buckwheat, etc-, were added. Better implements and better culture followed. The introduction of agricultural papers stimulated inquiry; inquiry led to associations for mutual improvement; hence the agricultural societies.

In the winter of 1846, William Bevans, B. F, Smith, Isaac Nicodemus, Adam Rinehart, and John and William Bonar, organized what they styled "The Morris Agricultural Club," with William Bevans as its president. The object of the club was mutual improvement, by a free interchange of opinions on all subjects pertaining to the farm. The club held regular weekly meetings for discussion, which was sometimes quite animated. Two questions gave great interest to these discussions

First. Does the moon, or the twelve signs of the Zodiac, or both combined, exert such an influence on vegetation as to make it necessary, in order to secure the best results, to be guided by their different phases, in our planting and sowing.

At that time scientific knowledge of the laws upon which successful agriculture is based, was not as widely diffused through books and periodicals as now. There were many ridiculous whims, founded on the ignorance of superstitious dreamers, who said "if you plant your cucumber seed when the moon is in the sign of the virgin, they will bloom but not bear; but plant them in the sign of the

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY - 231

twins,, and they will bear abundantly." Strange as it may appear, such nonsense found credence in the minds of otherwise intelligent men. The discussion of this topic brought out experiences and facts of great practical value. The superstitious whims were exploded, and the truth established that close observation of the earth, rather than the moon and stars, give the best results in agriculture.

The second question to which allusion has been made, was in reference 'to the transmutation of plants, or does wheat, under unfavorable circum stances, degenerate into chess or cheat?

As might be expected, the moon farmers were to a man firm believers in transmutation. In the discussion of this topic, an unanswerable array of facts were brought to bear, proving the Scripture doctrine, that, "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap," to be literally true, in the experience of the husbandman. The practical working of these two opinions is, that the believer in the Scripture doctrine will be careful to keep his fields free from foul seeds, and sow pure grain, assured that in due time he will reap in kind.

One Saturday in November, 1847, The Morris Agricultural Club held a fair on the farm of William Bonar, of Morris township, in which Dr. J. N. Burr, who was an honorary member, took a lively interest. Adam Rinehart was the president. Although the day was unfavorable-being rainy-the display of grain, fruit, stock, etc., was quite encouraging to the friends of improvement. The record of this first agricultural fair exists only in the memories of a few of its participants and is therefore very meagre. Byram Leonard, of Wayne township, was there with short-horn cattle; Henry Wider, of Wayne, and Adam Rinehart of Morris, each had a fine display of apples., The record shows that Wider was so disgusted at the injustice done him by being brought in second best, that he ceased to be a competitor at fairs during life. Premiums were offered as follows: For the best stallion; breed mare; spring colt; milch cow; bull calf; heifer calf; buck sheep (first and second best); ewe (first and second best); best two dozen apples (three varieties); best bunch of grapes; best plow, harrow and cultivator; pair of blankets; pair of woollen socks, etc., etc. The reasons for ignoring wheat were two: first, the poor crop of that season; second, the wheat was sown before' the formation of the club.

From this humble beginning has been developed what is now known as "the Knox County Agricultural Society." This society confines its efforts to encouraging the improvement of farm products; including farm stock of all kinds; the products of domestic industry and skill; in short all that pertains to rural comfort, convenience and elegance; as well as the products of the skilled artisan and mechanic.

Prior to the purchase of the present finely located fair grounds, fairs were held under many disadvantages. The floral hall was migratory. One year the court room of the old court house was used; another, the lecture room of the Union church, better known as the "Peacock church,' was called into requisition; still another year the church room of the Presbyterian congregation was thrown open to the society. For the stock grounds the then vacant lot on East Chestnut street opposite the Knox county jail was used for a few years. To prepare pens for the sheep and swine on exhibition, D. C. Montgomery, then sheriff' of the county, and Dr. J. N. Burr, devoted two or three days prior to the opening of the Fair, in levying contributions upon the rails of neighboring farms to build those pens, and two or three days after the fair closed were occupied in restoring the rails to their former places. The spacious fields of the late D. S. Norton, on the west side of the town, were thrown open for equestrian uses. Under such disadvantages the infant society had to labor for several years. As to the stock, it was herded in vacant lots throughout the town, and when wanted it was driven into the impromptu fair ground, viewed by the committees, and then driven home by the owners. The horses were hitched to fences and posts here and there; and when wanted were brought in, viewed, admired, and sent home. Fairs were thus conducted until about 1853 or 1854, before permanent grounds were procured.

In 1857 and 1858, independent fairs were held at Fredericktown, but of their success or failure no trustworthy accounts can be found.

Careful researches among the newspapers of the day develops the fact that the subject of holding county fairs had not been given that attention its

232 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

importance demanded, for until the year 1849 no mention is made of a fair being held, except one held by the Farmers' club in x847, and the report of the fair of 1849 is of little or no importance. But a few facts can be gathered bearing upon the subject. The officers were: President, William Bonar; secretary, Thomas T. Tress. The fair was held October 23d and 24th; but the place of holding it is not mentioned.

From the reports of the committee it is learned that "horses on exhibition were few in number, but all were of excellent stock; that the whole number of cattle on the ground was four hundred; that only about forty sheep were exhibited; that there was a poor display of fruit, and that of domestic manufactured articles a large display was made."

The date of holding the fair of 1850 is not given. The officers were: William Bonar, president; John Lewis, James Elliott, Richard Hunt, Aaron Nevis, and James Withrow, vice-presidents; Thomas T. Tress, recording secretary; Dr. J. N. Burr, corresponding secretary; M. M. Beam, treasurer; William Bonar, Benjamin F. Smith, R. C. Hurd, Adam Rinehart, Asahel Allen, Job Rusk, Jennings Crawford, Mardenboro White, executive committee.

The stock- exhibited this year was of excellent breed, but few in number. The cattle entries were numerous, a large number being entered merely as a show, and not for premiums. The sheep few in number, but of good stock. Of hogs, the committee remark: "The long-faced gentry were few, but respectable."

The fair of 1851 was the third in number. The officers were: President, William Bonar; vice-presidents, James Elliott, John McElroy, Eli Willett, G. W. Jackson, and Asahel Allen; recording secretary, John Beaty; corresponding secretary, George W. True; treasurer, M. M. Beam; executive committee, J. N. Burr, William Bevans, Benjamin F. Smith, Jennings Crawford, Robert Graham, Nicholas Spindlar, Melvin Wing, David C. Montgomery, Gilman B. Stilley.

The fair was held on the second and third days of October, and was well attended, and the show of articles quite creditable. The exhibition of horses, sheep and hogs was good. The number of cattle was not large; the quality, however, was excellent.

The exhibition of articles by the ladies was highly creditable to them, and attracted general attention and much praise.

So far as the fair of 1852 is concerned, no account can be given further than the list of officers, which is as follows: President, William Bevans; vice-presidents, Benjamin F. Smith, James Elliott, William Babcock, Marvin Tracy, and John Denny; recording secretary, A. Banning Norton; corresponding secretary, E. Ailing; treasurer, Henry P. Warden; executive committee, William Bonar, Asa. hel Allen, J. N. Burr, Isaac Bell, Benjamin Tulloss, Job Rush, Mardenboro White, Daniel McGrady, and Hugh Oglevee.

But little can be found at this late date in reference to the fair of 1853. Stock exhibited was very good. Floral hall was at the Union church, on North Main street, and attracted a large attendance. The contest for the prize for the. best female equestrian drew several thousand people to the field of Daniel S. Norton, west of town, where by universal consent the prize of a silver cup was awarded to Miss Eliza Thompson. The pleasure of the fair this year was destroyed by a serious accident that occurred upon the fair grounds, about three o'clock in the afternoon.

A grey horse hitched to the topmost rail of the fence on the east line, broke away, carrying with him the rail, to which he was fastened about midway, and ran into the crowd at his utmost speed, endangering the lives of many. Judge Hurd was standing in the crowd, and was knocked down and seriously injured, being struck upon the forehead and rendered senseless. Drs. Burr, Kirk, and others, who were present, at once came to his aid, and did all in their power to relieve him. The judge, after a long spell of sickness, finally recovered, but for long years suffered from that blow upon his head.

The fair of 1855 was held October 3d and 4th. The officers this year, as far as can be ascertained, were-President, Benjamin F. Smith; secretary, William Dunbar.

From the published report of the doings of the fair this year, the conclusion is that the stock exhibited was meager in number and poor in quality.

The committee report: They regret to say that there were but three lots of sheep exhibited, and those on exhibition were

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 233

not a fair sample of the most valuable wool sheep of our county; they being mostly a cross, of French and Spanish Merinoes, growing a heavy, greasy wool, very unprofitable to manufacturers, and if increased in our county, will have a tendency to reduce the value of our wools, and lessen the competition in the purchase of them.

The lot of sheep exhibited by Mr. Parminter, being Cotts and Leicester sheep, your committee recommend them as the most valuable sheep for mutton.

The committee on grain reported that the only grain presented was a specimen of corn, the product of two acres, raised by Mr. C. C. Curtis, of Mount Vernon. The corn was of excellent quality, and the amount per acre was one hundred and fourteen and one-half bushels.

The mechanical work, and the ladies' work exhibited, were highly commended. E. W. Cotton took the first premium on marble work, and Dr. C. M. Kelsey the first premium on dental work. Mrs. Beardslee was awarded the first premium on quilts, and Miss White the second premium.

William Turner, by report of the committee on farms and farming, was voted a premium for the neatest and best arranged garden.

The fair of 1856 was held September 18th and 19th, the officers being: President, Henry P. Warden; vice-presidents, G. F. Beardslee and Henry Phillips; recording secretary, E. Alling; corresponding secretary, John Lamb; treasurer, William Bonar.

The fair of this year was one of the most creditable and largely attended yet held in the county. The ladies exhibited numerous articles of domestic and fancy work. The horses on exhibition were an improvement on those of the last fair, both in number and quality, in style and speed. To Dr. E. M. Mast was awarded the first premium on mules. About forty head of cattle, and a fine lot of swine were on exhibition.

The time of holding the fair for 1857, is not stated. The officers were: Henry B. Warden, president; Henry Phillips, Isaac T. Beum, Robinson Frazier, John DeWolf, and Joseph Adams, vice-presidents; John Lamb, secretary; Israel Underwood, corresponding secretary, and C. S. Pyle, treasurer.

The executive committee consisted of twenty persons. The society numbered about three hundred members.

The total receipts were two thousand seven hundred and thirty-six dollars and sixty-eight cents, and the expenses were three thousand nine hundred and sixty-seven dollars and ninety-six cents. The deficit was one thousand two hundred and thirty-one dollars and twenty-eight cents.

The following extracts are from the society's report to the State Board of Agriculture:

We have been struggling for existence several years and until the present year (1857) have not bad what might be called an agricultural fair.

The executive board of the past year determined to make a bold movement, and with little encouragement and no means, purchased ten and three-quarter acres of land for a fairground for two hundred and twenty-five dollars per acre, enclosed it in a board fence, erected permanent halls, stalls, pens, etc., and two temporary halls and offices. The county commissioners agreed that when the society had expended and paid upon it one thousand dollars they would appropriate a like amount.

The fair was a successful one, and a great deal of good has resulted from it. It has breathed new life into the society, and we think that the Knox County Agricultural society and fairs have become a fixed fact. There were over six hundred entries made of horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, mules, fowls, farming implements, grain, vegetables, fine arts, needle and fancy work, domestic manufactures, painting, fruits, flowers, etc.

The fair of 1858 was held September 28th, 29th, 30th, and October 1st, and was a complete success. The officers were: Henry P. Warden, president; Lorin Andrews, I. T. Beum, C. P. Buckingham, H. W. Shipley, William L. King, vice-presidents; William B. Russell, recording secretary; Emmitt W. Cotton, corresponding secretary, and C. S. Pyle, treasurer.

Each township in the county was allotted a member of the executive committee.

The total number of entries was seven hundred and six.

It was evident from the amount of stock, and number of people in attendance, that the present grounds were too small, and a subscription of one thousand dollars was raised on the last day of the fair to purchase additional grounds.

The society numbered about -five hundred members.

The total receipts were one thousand nine hundred and eighty-five dollars and twenty-seven cents, and the expenses were three thousand four hundred and sixty-three dollars and three cents. The deficit was one thousand four hundred and seventy-seven dollars and seventy-six cents.

The heavy frost of June, 1859, was, for a short time, the cause of much alarm to the farming

1234 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

community, but the beautiful growing weather following. soon after, gave them hopes. of plentiful harvests. The fair of that year was held September 28th, 29th, and 30th, and was a very successful one. The officers of the agricultural society that year were as follows: Henry P. Warden, president; Lorin Andrews, C. Delano, and Henry Phillips, vice-presidents; William B. Russell, secretary; C. S. Pyle, treasurer.

The total receipts were two thousand one hundred and eighty-six dollars and sixty-six cents, and the expenses were one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four dollars and thirty-nine cents. The excess of receipts over expenditures was three hundred and twenty-two dollars and twenty-seven cents.

There was a large show of stock and machinery, and a good display of fruits and vegetables. Farm products were rather light, but of good quality.

The fair of 1860 was held on the society's grounds in Mount Vernon, September 19th, 20th, and 21st, and was reported "a complete success."

The society then owned nineteen acres of ground enclosed with a good board fence eight feet high. Upon the grounds good stalls, etc., had been erected. A splendid half-mile track had been laid out and so improved that when finished would make a beautiful drive.

The total receipts were one thousand nine hundred and eighty-nine dollars and fifty-nine cents, and the expenses were two thousand one hundred and thirty-nine dollars and nineteen cents. The deficit was one hundred and forty-nine dollars and sixty cents.

The date of holding the fair for 1861 is not specified. The display in all departments was meagre. The officers were: Joseph M. Byers, president; Lorin Andrews, Samuel Israel, John McIntyre, Jesse Davis, Robert Miller, vice-presidents; William B. Russell, recording secretary; E. W. Cotton, corresponding secretary; C. S. Pyle, treasurer.

The fair of 1862 was held September 24th, 25th, and 26th. Officers-Joseph M. Byers, president; Samuel Israel, C. Baker, Anthony White, C. L. Bennett, Robert Miller, vice-presidents; William B. Russell, secretary; E. W. Cotton, corresponding secretary; C. S. Pyle, treasurer.

No account of the fair can be found, but as it was the second year of the War of the Rebellion, it is presumed it was a slim affair. A new committee was created this year-a committee on asses - to which Dr. J. N. Burr and John Cooper were appointed.

The fair of 1863 was held September 23d, 24th and 25th. Officers-C. Delano, president; Harvey Cox, vice-president; Robert Thompson, secretary.

Samuel Israel, Charles Barker, John Lyal and Columbus Delano were appointed a committee to collect from' the General Government the bill of damages due the society for injury done the fair grounds when occupied by the Forty-third regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry.

The note due the Knox county bank for five hundred and thirty-one dollars and twenty-six cents, was ordered to be renewed.

For 1864 and 1865 no records were made in the journal. The war occupied all minds and the people were more intent on having a country than a fair.

Officers of the agricultural society for 1866, were-George B. Potwin, president; Robert Miller, vice president; Alexander Cassil, secretary; G. B. Dean, corresponding secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

The date of holding the fair this year is not given on the journal Incessant rains during the first and second days were disastrous to its success. The show of horses, cattle and sheep was unusually good. Wheat and clover-seed crops of the county were almost a failure. The corn crop was good, yielding forty-five bushels to the acre. Floral hall made a fine display.

Owing to the disturbed state of the country, fairs had been on the decline; those of the past three or four years had been poorly attended. They did not pay expenses.

January, 1866, found the Knox County Agricultural society heavily in debt. The vacancies in the board were filled up with new and energetic men, and new officers elected. By the exertions of officers, aided by liberal citizens, the fair of 'x866 was one of the best ever held in the county.

Receipts of the fair, together with private subscriptions, were sufficient to pay all the premiums, and to expend large sums in necessary repairs to the grounds and buildings. January r, 1867, the .

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 235

society had on hand available funds sufficient to pay off the indebtedness. With prudent management and the proper appreciation of the enterprise by citizens, the society hoped that it would become one of the permanent self-sustaining institutions of Knox county.

Mr. John D. Thompson represented the society at the State Agricultural convention this year.

Officers for 1867 were-George B. Potwin, president; Robert Miller, vice president; Alexander Cassil, secretary; John M. Martin, corresponding secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

Fair held September 17th, 18th and 19th.

Total receipts from all sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,500 06

" expenses ...................................................................... 3,782 33

Excess of receipts over expenses .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . ....... $ 717 73

The fair this year was a brand success, more than equalling the hopes of the most sanguine. The attendance of visitors on Wednesday and Thursday was large.

The display in fine horses, cattle, sheep and hogs was unusually good. In the way of fruits, vegetables, domestic fabrics and machinery, the display was not large but good. Much praise was awarded the officers of the society for their untiring exertions.

The fair for 1868 was held on the society's grounds September 29th and 30th, and October 1st. The officers were: George B. Potwin, president; Robert Miller, vice-president; Alexander Cassil, secretary, and John D. Thompson, treasurer.

The display in floral and art halls was not as good as could have been desired. The exhibition of stock was excellent. The wheat crop of the year was good both in yield and quality: amount sown, small. The corn crop was large, and of a good quality; The oat and barley crops were almost a failure. Clover seed was light in consequence of raids by the grasshoppers. The hay crop was very light. The failure of the hay crop caused a falling off of winter stock fully one-fourth, compared with the last winter. This was more especially the case with sheep, as farmers sold off their whole flocks to persons who slaughtered them for pelts and tallow. The fruit crop was unusually light, and of inferior quality.

The fair for 1869 was held on the eighth, ninth and tenth or September. The weather for the first days was very unfavorable.

Stock, especially horses, was well represented. The interest in fine wool sheep continued unabated. Some fine Spanish merinoes were on exhibition. The fine flock of long wool sheep exhibited by Mr. Rinehart, attracted much attention. The ladies under direction of Mr. E. W. Cotton ornamented the new floral hall in fine style. This hall was built at a cost of three thousand dollars. The wheat and oat crop of the county was excellent. The society numbered this year four hundred members.

The officers were: George B. Potwin, president; Robert Miller, vice-president; Alexander Cassil, secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

The officers for 1870 were: George B. Potwin, president; Robert Miller, vice-president; Alexander Cassil (resigned), secretary; C. E. Critchfield, secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

Fair held September 27th, 28th and 29^th.

The board was authorized to borrow one thousand dollars.

Judging from the published premium list, the fair of this year must have been a success: For horses of all grades seventy-nine premiums were paid; for. cattle, thirty-two; for sheep, twentyseven; for swine, fourteen; for farm products, agricultural implements and machinery, fruits and flowers, forty-four premiums were paid. Floral hall was replete with useful and pretty things. The committee on cattle report:

We find the showing in this class, K, the best that we have ever witnessed on exhibition, at any previous show in this county, there being two competitors, J. P. Larimore, esq., and John Lyal, esq., both of whom eqhibited very fine herds so nearly equal in points of excellence that your committee found it difficult to decide.

The premium was awarded to Mr. Larimore.

The officers for 1871 were: Robert Miller, president; Noah Boynton, vice-president; C. E. Critchfield, secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

Fair held September 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th.

The board authorized the building of fifty new stalls, the digging of a well on the grounds, and the making of other necessary repairs.

The entries at the fair this year were uncommonly large, every stall on the ground being full.

236 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

The stock of all kinds was exceedingly good, and drew the attention of all visitors.

Some splendid horses were on exhibition.

The display in floral. hall met the hearty and cordial approbation of all.

The entries of stock were: horses, one hundred and fifty-five; cattle, eighty-four; sheep, ninetytwo; hogs, forty-two; mules, thirteen. .

The fair for 1872 was held on the twenty-fourth, twenty-fifth, twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh of September, and is reported to have been the best and largest fair ever held in the county, there having been over one thousand entries. Receipts from all sources were about three thousand three hundred dollars. There were premiums paid to the amount of two thousand dollars, besides paying on old debts six hundred dollars.

No mention is made of the stock entries, but it is believed the display was superior. The display in floral hall was large and fine. The society this year numbered about seven hundred members. The officers were: Robert Miller, president; Noah Boynton, vice-president; C. E. Critchfield, secretary; John D. Thompson, treasurer.

On motion, a resolution was adopted "that it is expedient to sell the present grounds in accordance with petitions of the city council and of numerous citizens."

Farms in the neighborhood were examined by a committee for new grounds. The farms of Joseph Adams and P. H. Updegraff were favorably mentioned.

Fair for 1873 was held September 23d, 24th, 25th and 26th.

The weather, the first two days, was rainy, but the last two days good. There was a small attendance of visitors. The entries numbered one thousand; receipts from all sources about three thousand dollars. The premiums, expenses and repairs about equalled the receipts. A small debt rested upon the society. The show of horses, cattle, sheep and hogs was very fine, and the display of agricultural implements and products good. The floral hall was filled to overflowing and was a credit to the ladies of the county.

ACRES. YIELD.

Wheat................................. 20,858.............. 240,266 bushels.

Oats.................................... 15,136.............. 336,137 "

Corn ................................... 30,639............ 1,315,785

Potatoes ............................ 926 ............. 79,540 bushels.

Meadow............................. 19, 196 ............ 15,265 tons hay.

Butter............................................................. 634,443 pounds.

Officers-George W. Steele, president; Charles A Young, vice-president; A J. Beach, treasurer.

The question of selling the old grounds and the purchase of new, was discussed during this and subsequent years, and several farms in the neighborhood were examined and reported upon more or less favorably. Propositions to sell the grounds at public outcry to the highest bidder, and to lay them out in town lots and place them on the market, were discussed at meetings of the society, but up to the present (1881) nothing has been done. The sale of the grounds found but little favor with a large majority of the members, and citizens.

Officers for 1874-George W. Steele, president; C. A. Young, vice-president; C. E. Critchfield, secretary; A. J, Beach, treasurer.

The fair was held October 6th, 7th 8th and 9^th. Tuesday and Wednesday the weather was very unfavorable; on Thursday and Friday it was fine. On Thursday fully ten thousand people were on the ground.

The receipts at the gate on Tuesday were twentytwo dollars; Wednesday, five hundred and seventy dollars and sixty-seven cents; Thursday, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-one dollars and seven cents. On Friday the receipts were given up to the jockey club.

The display of stock of all kinds was very full, the stalls and pens being all occupied. The display of machinery and agricultural implements was large and interesting, and gave great satisfaction. Floral hall presented a fine appearance, and was the most attractive feature of the fair.

Officers for 1875-C. A. Young, president; Alexander Cassil, vice-president; O. G. Daniels, secretary; Noah Boynton, treasurer.

The fair this year was held October 5th, 6th and 7th.

The weather the first day up to noon was fine, and the people from the country were out in full force, the annual fair and Barnum's circus being the objective points of interest.

The third day the attendance was good. It was remarked by all that the display of agricultural implements was excellent both in number and va-

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 237

riety. Floral hall was well filled with pictures and needle work, flowers and vegetables. The show, of stock was excellent-the horses, cattle, sheep, hogs and poultry were all of the best grades. John Lyal had some good stock, and it would seem as though he was entitled to some premiums, though he failed to obtain any. James Martin had the largest number, and, it is probable, the best show of cattle on the grounds. He received sixteen premiums on fifteen head.

Officers for 1876-Alexander Cassil, president; Peres Critchfield; vice-president; Willard S. Hyde, secretary; Ira M. McFarland, treasurer.

Fair held q-ptember 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th.

At one of the early meetings of the board a loan of one thousand five hundred dollars was authorized to be made.

At a later meeting another loan of one thousand eight hundred dollars was authorized, and the board authorized to cancel the indebtedness of the society. A committee appointed to ascertain this indebtedness reported as follows: The liabilities for 1876 were two thousand three hundred and forty-four dollars and thirteen cents; the amount due the society was two hundred and forty-six dollars and seventy-nine cents; leaving the liabilities of the society two thousand ninety-seven dollars and thirty-four cents.

On the last three days of the fair the attendance was large, bringing the receipts up to about two thousand six hundred dollars from gate money and entry fees.

All departments were well represented in the display, and commanded great attention from visitors.

Officers for 1877-Alexander Cassil, president; Peres Critchfield, vice-president: Williard S. Hyde, secretary; Samuel Bishop, treasurer.

The receipts of. 1877 were two thousand one hundred and ninety-four dollars and five cents; and the expenses, two thousand six hundred and nine dollars and thirtyone cents, leaving a deficit of four hundred and fifteen dollars and twenty-six cents.

At this fair the display in every department was never excelled, although on account of rain on the first and second days, the number of visitors was small.

The display of horses was uncommonly good. About one hundred and seventy-five were entered for exhibition. The display of cattle was also excellent.

The departments of hogs and sheep were filled with stock of superior breeds. One hundred head of hogs and one hundred and twenty-five head of sheep were entered for exhibition.

In agricultural implements the display was large and fine.

Floral hall was packed full of useful and ornamental articles. The ladies' work displayed great taste, and was much admired.

The fair for 1878 was held September 24th, 25th, 26th, and 27th. The officers were: John C. Levering, president; Alexander Cassil, vice-president; William S. Hyde, secretary; Samuel Bishop, treasurer.

Following is the report of President Levering:

The twenty-fifth annual fair of the Knox County Agricultural society was held on the society's grounds, in the city of Mount Vernon. It was well attended, and was the most successful exhibition the society ever held, every department being fully represented. Crops of all kinds were good the past season. Our farmers have generally adopted a mixed husbandry; more profitable in a series of years than to make a specialty of any one crop, while any crop that can be grown profitably in the State, can be grown here successfully.

Wheat, corn, oats, and hay, are the principal crops grown in the county. The wheat crop of 1878 was perhaps the largest ever grown in the county, both in acreage and the yield per acre. There are many varieties of wheat grown in the county the Mediterranean still holding a prominent place as a sure crop, while the largest .t yields are reported from the Fultz; the Clawson is not yet sufficiently tested; the Gypsey is generally discarded.

A large proportion of our county is well adapted to growing corn, especially the western part, and the Kokosing valley. It is the largest crop raised in the county, and considered the most important; it is generally fed to stock, thus producing the largest income of any other crop.

Of oats, there have been several new varieties introduced, but none succeed so well as the common yellow-spangled variety. The Norway or black oats are entirely discarded.

The potato crop has assumed considerable importance, and is the chief crop grown in the county.

Of fruits, apples are the principal crop; the yield of x878 was the largest ever produced in the county, and of excellent quality. Large quantities were shipped east, and even to England. Of peaches there was more than an average crop.

In the live stock department there is a manifest improvement in all kinds bred and raised in the county.

The importation of the Clydesdale, Norman, and Percheron horses is producing some fine, heavy roadsters, which command ready sales and good prices.

Of cattle we have the shorthorn, which, by crossing with the common cows, produce good feeding steers, which find ready

238 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

market. There are several fine herds in the county. There are but a few of the jerseys, Alderneys, Ayrshires, or Devons in the county.

In the production of sheep and wool, there has been a decline in the numbers in the few past years. The Spanish or American Merino compose by far the larger proportion of sheep in the county.

Of hogs, the Poland-China, Berkshires, and the ChesterWhites make the most important showing in the "long-faced gentry." So far as this department of the fair is concerned, the exhibition was a success.

Floral hall and fine-art hall were great attractions.

Of farm products, the display was excellent. The condition of agriculture in the county is improving. The farmers are taking more pains in the cultivation of the soil, by underdraining, manuring, and a more thorough system in the rotation of crops.

The officers for 1879 were: John C. Levering, president; Alexander Cassil, vice-president; John F. Gay, secretary; B. S. Cassel, treasurer.

The fair was held October 7th, 8th, 9th, and l0th.

On the twenty-first of March Treasurer Cassel reported that there had been placed in his hands one thousand, nine hundred and four dollars and twenty-seven cents; that the amount paid out was one thousand, five hundred and ninety-one dollars and sixteen cents; leaving an excess of receipts of three hundred and thirteen dollars and eleven cents.

This year's fair is published as the twenty-seventh annual exhibition. Previous to the exhibition an addition had been made to floral hall, in which to exhibit fruits and vegetables, where they made a fine display. The halls, sheds, and stalls had also been renovated and repaired, and quite a number of new ones had been added.

Up to Wednesday morning about eleven thousand entries were made, the numbers being in excess of any previous year.

Floral hall, under the management of Mr. C. S. Pyle and Mr. O. M. Mulvany, made a splendid appearance.

In agricultural implements there was an extensive display, that attracted a great deal of attention.

In the horse and cattle departments the number of entries was larger than in any previous year. All stalls were filled. The display of sheep and hogs was very large. All the pens were occupied. The display of poultry was unusually large and fine.

The officers for 1880 were: John C. Levering, president; Alexander Cassil, vice president; John F. Gay, secretary; B. S. Cassel, treasurer.

The fair was held October 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th.

The fair of 1880 was a success. The first two days were lightly attended by visitors, but during the last two days the attendance was large, larger than on any two days of any previous fair. The total gate receipts were two thousand seven hundred and twenty-five dollars; the total entry fees were seven hundred and seventy-five dollars; total receipts, three thousand five hundred dollars.

Floral hall was attractive, and the committee deserved great credit for the admirable taste displayed in arranging the many articles belonging to that department.

Among the exhibitors in the stock department, Messrs. W. S. W. Wing and L. F. Jones had twenty-two head of Kentucky cattle; Mr. John Lyal had thirteen head of fine cattle; and Mr. James Martin fifteen head.

Holmes & Dickeson, J. C. Levering & Company, S. K. Pumphrey, and H. H. Brown, each had on exhibition draft stallions.

Hogs and sheep were on hand in splendid condition and of superior breeds.

Chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese, were on hand in large numbers.

Buggies and carriages of improved styles, the manufacture of Mr. David Sanderson and Mr. George D. Neal, were on exhibition.

Messrs. Pealer & Norrick made forty-three entries of improved farm implements, and two steam engines.

At the January meeting of the members of the society, Mr. E. A. Pealer was elected president; Mr. John C. Levering, vice-president; Mr. John F. Gay, secretary; and Bascom S. Cassel, treasurer for 1881.

At the annual meeting of the Ohio State Agricultural society, held at Columbus in January, 1881 Mr. John C. Levering, of Knox county, was elected a member of the board of managers. This is the first time Knox county has been thus honored.

The board decided to hold the State fair at Columbus from August 28th to September 3, 1881. Mr. Levering was assigned to the department of "Mechanics' and Manufacturers' products."

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 239

CHAPTER XXVI.

BENCH AND BAR.

FIRST COURT IN THE COUNTY-THE WHIPPING POST-FIRST

PROSECUTING ATTORNEY - PROCEEDINGS OF THE COURT -

FIRST PRACTICING LAWYERS--A BRIEF NOTICE OF EACH

OF THE MEMBERS OF THE MOUNT VERNON BAR.

The first court held in Knox county, convened May 1, 1808, William Wilson, of Licking county, presiding. John Mills and William Gass were the associate judges. Charles Loffland was elected by the court, clerk pro tempore. The first grand jury impanneled consisted of 'Matthew Merrit, foreman, John Herrod, Samuel H. Smith, James Walker, jr., David Miller, Joseph Walker, Gilman Bryant, James Walker, sr., William Douglass, Ziba Leonard, Stephen Chapman, Benjamin Butler, Jonathan Hunt, and Ichabod Nye. The first petit jury was composed of James Loveridge, Henry Smith, Aaron Brown, James Smith, Benjamin Brown, John Beam, William Nash, Daniel Demick, \-iichael Brown, Peter Baxter, Archibald Gardner, and Levi Herrod.

Banning Norton thus introduces the first court held in the county:

On the first of May, 1808, the faces of old and young, great and small, of the male and female, upon Owl creek's "stormy banks," were anxiously turned to the south to catch the first glimpse of that august personage, "the court," then expected to make a first visitation to Mount Vernon. Ben. Butler and aunt Leah had their house all "in apple-pie order" for their grand reception; Jim Craig, at his house on the corner of Mulberry and Gambier, had laid in a fresh supply of whisky and other refreshments; Gilman Bryant had got a bran new horn for his customers, and had rubbed his little store up until the stock looked as bright as a dollar; and Sheriff Brown had caused the little wagonmaker shop of Coyle & Sons to be swept out and supplied with smooth round logs for the jurymen and others in attendance to sit on. Every man and boy that had been fortunate enough to kill his deer had buckskin leggins and a new hunting shirt, and every woman who had a wheel had spun and dyed and made herself and little ones a good homespun garment. Some few who could stand the expense had bought of store calico three to five yards, at seventy-five cents a yard, and fitted themselves with a two or three breadth dress, the third breadth, made into gores, so as to be wider at the bottom; for in those days there were no fashionable women to parade the streets with fifteen to eighteen yards in a dress, and no disposition for extravagant displays of wearing apparel. The court travelled on horse-back-handed the saddle-bags to "Knuck Harris," and, after rest and refreshment, bright and early on the morning of the second of May " opened" and proceeded to business. The whole population-men, women and childrenwere out in their best rig, to witness this great event.

The first jury trial was the State of Ohio vs. William Hedrick. The following is an extract from the minutes of that court

Agreeable to an act of the general assembly of the State of Ohio, passed on the thirtieth of January, 1808, for establishing and organizing the county of Knox

Be it, therefore, remembered and known, that we, William Wilson, president, john Mills and William Gass, associate judges for said county of Knox, did on this day, to-wit: Monday. the second day of May, in the year of our Lord 1808, meet at Mount Vernon, the temporary seat of justice for the county aforesaid, and proceeded to the appointment of a clerk for the said county, whereupon it was declared by the court that Charles Loffland was duly elected clerk pro tempore, who came into court and was duly qualified as the law directs.

Samuel H. Smith, esq., was duly elected surveyor of Knox county.

Present: William W. Farquhar, gentleman; James Armstrong, James Dunlap, and Isaac Cook, gentlemen, who were appointed by the legislature on the ninth of February last for fixing the county seat in the county fur Knox, made their report to the court of common pleas for the county aforesaid that Mount Vernon should be the seat of justice for said county.

At this court four indictments were found against one William Hedrick, as follows: For stealing a watch from William Bowen; for stealing a bay mare, property of William Wallace ; for stealing one pair of overalls, the property of Joseph Cherry Holmes; for stealing one bell and collar, the property of William Wallace. On each indictment Hedrick was found guilty, and judgment rendered against him as follows

1st charge.-Fine five dollars, pay the owner, William Bowen, fifteen dollars, and be whipped on his naked back ten stripes, imprisoned one month, pay the cost, and stand committed until the sentence is complied with.

2d charge.-Prisoner be whipped twenty lashes on his naked back, and pay a fine of twenty dollars, and be imprisoned one month, and pay the owner seventy dollars, the value of the mare, pay the. cost, and stand committed, etc.

3d charge.-Prisoner be whipped on his naked back five stripes, pay a fine of two dollars, be imprisoned one month, pay the owner five dollars, double the value of the overalls, pay cost, and stand committed, etc.

4th charge.-Prisoner to be whipped five stripes on his naked back, pay a fine of one dollar, pay the owner one dollar and a half, the value of the bell and collar, pay the costs, and stand committed, etc.

Norton relates as follows how the above sentences were carried into effect:

The judgment of castigation was executed upon the public square of Mount Vernon, shortly after the adjournment of court, in presence of all the people. Silas Brown was the sheriff; and it fell to his lot as such to serve the "legal process" upon the body of William Hedrick. There was a small leaning kickory tree upon the east side of the public square, between the present Norton building (now occupied by Dr. Israel Green, druggist) and High street, and a little south of where the jail was afterwards built, and this tree bent in such a way that a man could walk around under it. To this delectable spot the culprit was taken, and his hands were stretched up over his head and tied to the tree, and the stripes were applied by the sheriff to his

240 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

naked back. He was struck forty times with a heavy raw-hide whip.

The first few blows with the raw-hide were across the kidneys. Mr. Bryant, one of the bystanders, at once called oat to the sheriff to whip him elsewhere -that was no place to whip a man he should strike higher up; and the test of the lashes were applied across the shoulders.

The criminal sobbed and cried piteously, and when released went off weeping and groaning. In many places the skin was cut and broken, and the blood oozed out, making a pitiable spectacle. And yet such was the feeling against him that few seemed to sympathize with the scourged. As he started off he said to the spectators: . ' You should not blame me for this, for it was not my fault." Bob Walker replied: '-No, you wouldn't have stood up and been whipped that way, if you could have helped it." And at this prompt retort to Hedrick's explanation or apology, the crowd laughed uproariously.

From Gilman Bryant, Samuel H. Smith, Benjamin Butler, Jonathan Hunt, and Stephen Chapman of the grand jury, and James Loveridge and the Herrods of the petit jury, and Richard Roberts, who witnessed this same, this account of the first and last judicial punishment by whipping in Knox county, was gathered. Few of the present citizens are aware that such punishment of criminals was ever the law of the land in which they have the good fortune to live.

The appointment by the court of a clerk for the county, and of a surveyor, completed the organization of the county.

There being no attorney in attendance at this session,the court appointed Samuel Kratzer, a worthy and intelligent citizen, attorney to defend the said Hedrick. To him the county paid the first attorney's fees, six dollars, ever paid in the county. Kratzer, in the early courts, when no attorney was in attendance, officiated as prosecuting attorney.

Among the proceedings of the first court was the granting a license to William Thrift, a Baptist minister, to solemnize marriages. Samuel Kratzer and Stephen Chapman were authorized to retail merchandise in Mount Vernon, on paying into the treasury five dollars each. Samuel Kratzer was also licensed to keep a house of entertainment in Mount Vernon, on paying six dollars, and Daniel Ayers was licensed to keep one in Fredericktown, on paying five dollars. The last will and testament of William Leonard was proven.

The second term of the Knox common pleas was held on Monday, September 5, 1808. The grand jury for this term was Jabez Beers, foreman, Ziba Leonard, John Johnson, James Walker, Jacob Young, Benjamin Butler, William Nash, John Butler, David Miller, John Merritt, William Douglas, James Walker, jr., and James Craig. The first case tried at this term was "The State of Ohio vs, Samuel H. Smith-on a presentment for selling goods without a license. Court on consideration of the offence fined the defendant in the sum of two dollars and fifty cents and costs of .the prosecution." Afterward the court granted a license to Samuel H. Smith to sell merchandise at his store in Clinton, for one year, on the payment of ten dollars. Mr. Smith was also licensed to keep tavern on payment of five dollars.

The following notes regarding the early courts are from Norton's history:

The grand jury at the spring term of common pleas court of 1815 consisted of Anthony Banning, foreman. John Merritt, Peter Bricker, John Hawn, David Hawn, John Green, William Marquis, George Davis, Moses Craig, James Strange, Azariah Davis, Jacob Martin, Benjamin Bell, and Gilman Bryant. They returned nineteen indictments for "assault and battery" and "affrays." Quite a number of the parties plead guilty, and were fined two dollars and costs. Adnal Hersey, of the Christian church, was licensed to marry. John Cook, of the Baptist, was also licensed to do the same. Samuel Mott was appointed master commissioner in chancery. Tavern licenses were granted this year to Jonathan Hunt, Elisha Cornwall, Abner Ayres, John Baxter, and A. H. Royce; and store licenses to Nicholas McCarty, George Girty, Eli Miller, Anthony Banning, L. S. Silliman, Gilman Bryant, John Wilson, and James N. Ayres. Two important roads are opened this year, namely: from Mt. Vernon towards Sandusky, under the supervision of John Lewis, as commissioner, for which he is granted by the county commissioners orders for one hundred dollars, and is paid fifteen dollars for his services; another, a road opened by Benjamin Rush, as commissioner, to 'Mansfield, for which set. vics he is paid nine dollars, and two hundred dollars is expended by the county in work upon the same. Among the bills paid in November, 1818, by the commissioners, are; to Anthony Banning, for one hundred and eighty-two and a half pounds iron and brick for jail, twenty-six dollars and fifty-five cents; and Archibald Crofferd, for the following for the county: One pair hand-cuffs, three dollars; one hasp, fifty cents; shackles and hasp, one dollar and fifty cents; two grates, thirteen dollars and eighty cents; eight spikes, fifty cents-nineteen dollars and fifty cents. The job of making further improve. ments to the jail and jailor's house is given to William Doug. lass at one hundred and twenty-five dollars. The commissioners were determined, if possible, to make the jail burglar proof.

The first session of the supreme court of the State of Ohio held in Knox county was on the third day of August, 1810, be Honorables William W. Irwin and Ethan Allen Brown.

James Smith was appointed clerk for seven years.

The only cases were those of the State vs: Ichabod Nye and Samuel Nye. Upon oath by the defendants that they did not believe an impartial trial could be had, the venue was changed to Licking county.

E. Herrick, esq., attended as prosecuting attorney.

The second session was held May 1, 1811, but two causes were on the docket. Sylvenias Lawrence, for the use of Benjamin

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 241

Rush, vs. George Davidson, and James Peuthres vs. Samuel Kratzer; both of which were dismissed. No other business was to be transacted, and the court adjourned until the next court in course.

The third term was held April 9, 1812. In addition to the former cases the docket shows the following: Joseph Butler vs. Elizabeth Vendrew; William Y. Farquhar vs. James Craig; Andrew Craig vs. Henry McCart and James Cunningham; James Smith vs. Samuel H. Smith; Henry Smith vs. Benjamin Barney; Henry Smith vs. Samuel H. Smith and Benjamin Barney; and Thomas Slater vs. Lovina Slater. Attachments were issued vs. Amos Yarnold and Alexander Enos, for refusing to appear as witnesses.

The case of Slater vs. Slater is the first divorce question ever presented in Knox county.

The fourth term was held on the second of August, 1813, by Thomas Scott and Ethan A. Brown.

William C. Enos was qualified as attorney and counsellor at law as the law requires.

The case of Lawrence for the use of Rush is dismissed for want of bond to prosecute the appeal.

In Craig vs. McCart and Cunningham, judgment of non-suit is entered, because of non-appearance of plaintiff. Farquhar vs. Craig is continued, and the defendant to pay all costs of this term within six months, or judgment, etc. John Jones -vs. j Joseph Cherry Holmes and George Lybarger the complainant being thrice called did net appear, nor any person to prosecute this suit for him, therefore the injunction is dissolved and bill dismissed. The injunction case of Benjamin Barney vs. Henry Smith is heard by counsel, and the injunction is made perpetual, plaintiff to pay all costs. James Smith vs. Samuel H. Smith is argued by counsel, and the court decide that the defendant go hence, without day, and recover of plaintiff costs, etc. David Davis vs. John Cambridge, removed from Licking county, is continued. Slater's divorce petition is dismissed at cost of plaintiff. Lewis Dent & Co. vs. John Wheeler-judgment for plaintiff for four hundred and ninety-three dollars and eighty cents and costs. Another divorce case, Isaac Bonnet vs. Elizabeth Bonnet, is continued at cost of plaintiff, to be paid in six months, and upon condition that he give personal notice to the defendant of the pending of this suit in six months.

On the evening of the third of August, having spent two days court adjourned.

The fifth term was held August 15, 1814-Judges, William W. Irwin and Ethan A. Brown.

John Williamson vs. Samuel Farquhar is continued at defend ants cost.

Isaac Bonnet vs. Mary Bonnet, divorce. After argument the court continued the cause under advisement until the Coshocton supreme court, their decision to be certified from that or some other court to this court. The first jury cause ever tried in the supreme court for this county was that of William W . Farquhar vs, James Craig.

Jury-William Harriss, John Harriss, John Sawyer, Jacob Cooper, John Kerr, Bartholomew Bartlett, John Davidson, John Wilson, Thomas White, Francis Mitchell, Isaac Bonnet. and Benjamin Martin. Verdict for plaintiff, one hundred and. three dollars and sixty cents. A motion is made by defendant for a new trial, argued by counsel, and overruled by court.

The State of Ohio vs. Martin D. Lewis. On indictment by grand jury of Licking county for larceny. On motion, and affidavit of defendant, the court ordered venue to be changed to this county, on defendant giving bond for five hundred dollars and security in two hundred dollars to appear first day of next term. Henry Markley becomes his security. After two days' session, court adjourned.

The sixth term was held August 7, 1815. Judges-Ethan A. Brown and John A. Couch, who produced his commission in room of Hon. Thomas Scott, resigned, etc.

The only jury trial was that of Samuel Mott vs. Gilman Bryant. Jury-Isaac Vore, sr., John Vennoms, Samuel Durbin, James McGibeny, Joseph Hunt, John Arbuckle, Thomas Williams, Moses Merrit, George Dial, William Sapp, and John Stilley. Verdict for plaintiff, five. dollars and costs. Josiah Hedges vs. Samuel Kratzer, Andrew Craig, and George Davis. Default against defendants, and cause continued for inquiry. Anthony Banning vs. Samuel Kratzer and John Williamson. On motion of plaintiff's counsel for dismission of appeal, on hearing the arguments of the parties by their counsel, it is therefore ordered that the motion be overruled.

August 8, 1815. John Williamson vs. Samuel Farquhar. Continued till next term, on motion and affidavit of plantiff, and at his cost. William W. Alexander vs. John Wilson. Suit dismissed at cost of defendant, except docket fee in court below, which is not to be taxed to either party. Anthony Banning vs. Samuel Kratzer and John Williamson. Decree by court for plaintiff, "as per decree on file, signed by chief judge."

The above is a faithful abstract of the business of this, the sixth, term of the supreme court.

The seventh term was held August 15, 1816, by Judges Brown and Couch, the latter having produced his commission for seven years from the fourteenth of February, 18 t6. But one cause was tried by jury - Moses Robinson vs. Isaac Dial. Verdict for plaintiff, one hundred and four dollars and eighty cents and costs. Williamson vs. Farquhar is again continued, with leave to amend, and at costs of plaintiff. Stephen H. McDougal, assignee of William Taylor vs. Enoch Harris. Judgment by default, for eighty-eight dollars and eighty rents and costs. There are four other cases on the docket, in all of which our old friend Samuel H. Smith figures as plaintiff or defendant. The other patties are Robert Fulton, Erasmus Beaty, Levi Davis, Joseph Walker, administrator of Philip Walker, and John Walker. On the sixteenth court adjourned till next court in course.

The first writ of habeus corpus in the county was allowed "by the Hon. John H. Mefford, esq.," April 26, 1819. John Shaw, sheriff, brought into the court house the body of Amos Yarnall, with the mittimus, showing the cause of capture and detention. Samuel Mott, esq., appeared as his attorney, and on his motion, after the attorney for the State had duly considered the matters in law arising, the court let him to bail in the sum of fifty dollars, James Smith his security.

The second case, that of William Knight, who, on the eighth of July, 1819, was brought to the court house, and by judge Mefford admitted to bail in the sum of fifty dollars, Alexander Elliott becoming his bondsman.

The third case occurred April 3, 1820, when judge Joseph Brown set at large Abel Fowler, upon Artemas Estabrook and Alfred Manning becoming security for his appearance at the May term of Knox common pleas, in the sum of fifty dollars.

In this year an interesting case was presented in allowance of a writ, on the twentieth of November, by Judge Brown, requiring John Bird and Judah Bird to bring into court the body of an Indian child, daughter of Rachel Conkapote, deceased, by her husband, Elisha Conkapote, both Indians of the Stockbridge

242 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

tribe. Judges Young and Chapman appeared, and the whole court lent itself to an impartial examination of the case, which resulted in their leaving the little Indian in the hands of the Birds, John and Judah. This little Indian was daughter of the squaw killed.

This was perhaps the most interesting case heard upon writ of this character, until the great military case of Colonel Warden, which was tried upon writ issued in name of the State vs. William E. Davidson.

" By Judge James Elliott, September 27, 1837.

"W. E. Davidson, Provost Marshal of the and Brigade, 3d Division, Ohio Militia (late 4th Brigade, 7th Division, O. M.), in pursuance of an order by Brigadier-General Wm. Bevans (commander of said Brigade), and upon action of a Court Martial, now -in session at Mt. Vernon, convened by order of said Gen. Wm. Bevans, on Monday, Sept. 25th, 1837- Col. H. W, Strong, President of the Board. Discharged by said James Elliott, judge, &c."

Another case, of much interest, at a still later period, was about the two dwarfs-of Porter's wife-held, it was claimed, illegally by Warner. Upon hearing, however, the court did not think so, and they remained in custody of the showman, at last accounts.

The writ of habeas corpus became a favorite resort in liquor cases, where parties were, as they thought, unjustly persecuted and cast into prison, by fines imposed, upon temperance principles. During the administration of his Honor, Judge Bevans, more writs of habeas corpus were granted than in all the rest of our history put together. To such an extent was it carried, that he acquired the sobriquet of "Old Habeas Corpus." The venerable judge always leaned towards the side of suffering humanity. If he erred in judgment, it was because no work upon the subject had been published at that date. Our townsman, judge Hurd's work on Habeas Corpus, did not get into print until the year 1858.

As before stated, William Wilson, of Licking county, was the first president judge. George Tod, of Trumbull; Alexander Harper, of Muskingum ; Lane and Higgins, of Huron; and Ezra Dean, of Wayne, succeeded Wilson in the presidency prior to 1851. Since that time the most prominent have been Judges Finch and Jones, of Delaware; and Hurd and Adams, of Knox Among the early judges of the supreme court who have presided in Knox county, may be mentioned Peter Hitchcock, Reuben Wood, Frederick Grimke, Calvin Pease, Joshua Collett, John C. Wright, and N. C. Read.

The early bar of Knox county was composed entirely of visiting attorneys of distinction, citizens of neighboring counties, who were, for a great number of years, regular attendants at each session. of the court. Among these were Philomon Beecher, Charles R. Sherman, Thomas Ewing, Henry Stanbery, W. W. Irwin, Hocking H. Hunter, of Fairfield county; Edward Herrick, William Stanbery, Joshua Mathiott, Israel Dille, and George B. Smythe, of Licking county; Wyllis Silliman, Samuel W. Culbertson, Charles B. Goddard, Alexander Harper, Charles C. Converse, C. W. Searle, and George James, of Muskingum county; Orris Parish, of Franklin county; and David Spangler, of Coshocton county. All were distinguished attorneys, and many of them became prominent in State and national affairs in after days. Many of these gentlemen were, at different times, appointed temporary prosecuting attorneys. As may be remarked, from the brilliant-array of prfessional men, the early bar of Knox county stood preeminent throughout the State.

Samuel Mott, esq., a native of Vermont, was the first resident lawyer of the county. He came to Mount Vernon about 1811. In the early courts he had considerale business, and was a man of note in the county. At one time he was engaged in the mercantile business. '

William C. Enos was probably the first attorney admitted to the bar in Knox county, about 1813. He was what the people of that day called "home made," and did not attain to a high position as an attorney. He was a quiet, peaceable citizen, and a man of considerable intelligence.

Hosmer Curtis was the second resident attorney. He was a native of Connecticut and came to Mount Vernon in 1815. For a number of years he was the "father of the Knox county bar." In 1816 he was appointed prosecuting attorney, and in 1822 represented the county in the legislature. He removed to Iowa in 1858, and died in 1874, aged eighty-five years.

Henry Barnes Curtis carne to Mount Vernon in 1817, and read law in the office of his brother, Hosmer Curtis; was admitted to the bar, and at a later date to the United States courts at Columbus, and to the supreme court at Washington, D. C. On the ninth day of December, 1872, he retired from the legal profession, after a successful and lucrative professional career of half a century.

About the time Mr. Curtis entered upon his legal career, J. W. Warden, Benjamin S. Brown, Columbus Delano and John K. Miller became members of the bar. At a later period Matthew H. Mitchell, John C. Stockton, William R. Sapp, R. C. Hurd

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 243

and others were enrolled as members. Of the eight mentioned above, Columbus Delano is the only one now living. In the early days of the bar J. C. Hall was a leading member of it. Some thirty-five years ago he started west, and made his home in Iowa, where he became eminent in his profession, and at one time represented his district in congress. Of the professional career of John W, Warden and Benjamin S. Brown, little can be said at this late date, other than that they were eminent in their profession, and well known throughout the State. John K. Miller took high rank in his profession, and also in the field of politics. He represented the Knox congressional district in congress two terms, and also represented his country as consul at one of the French ports. Stricken with bodily infirmities while at the height of his usefulness, he was compelled to retire from a profession he adorned by his abilities and virtues. Matthew H. Mitchell, in the early part of his professional career, was a man of superior abilities, and stood at the head of the bar. He had no superior in the county. In 1850 he represented the county in the constitutional convention, took a leading part in that body, and enjoyed the entire confidence of his fellow-members. His death occurred a short time since.

One of the most brilliant and erratic members of the early bar of Mount Vernon was the late Major Hoey. He was a man of superior education, a comprehensive mind and inferior to none when he thought proper to devote himself to his profession. Socially inclined he deserted his profession for the companonship of the gay, and the thoughtless.

Hon. C. Delano is one of the county's most eminent attorneys, and highly honored men. He was born in Shoreham, Vermont, in 1809; removed to Mount Vernon in 1817 ; was admitted to the bar in 1831, and became eminently successful, both as a criminal prosecutor and as an advocate. In 1844 he was elected a representative from Ohio to the twenty-ninth Congress, and served on the committee on invalid pensions. In 1847 he was a candidate for governor, but lacked two votes of a nomination. In 1860 he was a delegate to the Chicago convention. In 1861 he was apppointed commissary general of Ohio and filled the office with great success until the General Government assumed the subsistence of all State troops. In 1862 he was a candidate for United' States senator, but again lacked two votes of a nomination. In 1863 he was elected to the Ohio house of representatives and was a prominent member of that body, taking a leading part in shaping the important legislation of that session. In 1864 he was a member of the Baltimore convention, and chairman of the Ohio delegation, zealously supporting President Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. He was re-elected to the thirty-ninth Congress, serving as chairman of the committee on claims. Having relinquished the practice of his profession, he became extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits, and the business of banking. He was also a delegate to the Philadelphia "Loyalists' convention" of 1866; and, in 1868, having contested the seat of G. W. Morgan for the fortieth Congress, he was successful, and became a member of the House. After leaving Congress he was appointed commissioner of internal revenue, and was also appointed Secretary of the Interior in 187o, by President Grant, and resigned in 1875.

Judge Rollin C. Hurd was for many years one of the most prominent of Mount Vernon's lawyers. He was a live, active, go-ahead Yankee from Vermont, and pushed his way to the front rank in his profession. He was educated at Kenyon college, studied law with the late Benjamin S. Brown and was admitted to the bar in 1837. His practice soon became extensive not only in the county and circuit courts, but in the United States courts of the northern district of Ohio. In 1863 he was admitted to practice in the supreme court of the United States in Washington

In 1852 he was elected judge of the court of common pleas for this judicial district. Later in life he found time to publish a work on habeas corpus, and to devote much of his time and energy to the completion of the Cleveland, Columbus & Mount Vernon railroad. His death occurred February 12, 1874

Joseph Slocum Davis graduated from Kenyon college in 1835; studied law in the office of Benjamin S. Brown, and was admitted to the bar in 1837. Ill health compelled him to quit the profession after a few years' practice.

William Dunbar came to Mount Vernon in 1847,

244 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

and became proprietor of the Mount Vernon Democratic Banner. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1806, and admitted to the bar in 1842.

General George W. Morgan came to Mount Vernon in 1843, and read law with the late Hon. J. K. Miller. He has been actively engaged in three wars-the Texan war of independence, 1836; the Mexican war, 1846; and the war of the Rebellion, 1861; and has served three termsin Congress. He has also held two foreign appointments-consul and minister plenipotentiary.

The late Hon. William R. Sapp, or "Major," as he was familiarly called, thirty years ago stood high in the profession. He served in Congress two terms, and was also appointed revenue collector and United States commissioner.

John C. Stockton came to Mount Vernon from Zanesville about the year 1855. In 1814 he represented Muskingum county in the State legislature. He was a man of education and great professional ability.

William McClelland, of the firm of McClelland & Culbertson, is a native of Pennsylvania; came to Mount Vernon in 1844, and has been largely engaged in settling estates. He served as county commissioner thirteen years.

William Craig Culbertson is a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. He read law under the preceptorship of General Aquilla Wiley, of Wooster, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar in 1871. He came to Mount Vernon in 1872 and entered into partnership with William McClelland.

Charles H. Scribner was admitted to the bar at Mount Vernon in 1848, and in June, 1869, removed to Toledo and entered into partnership with Hon. Frank H. Hurd. In 1867 he was elected to the State senate from the district composed of the counties of Wayne, Holmes, Knox, and Morrow. He was the author of a valuable legal work, entitled Treatise on the Law of Dower, and was a member of the convention called to revise the constitution in 1873.

Joseph C. Devin was educated at the seminary at Norwalk, Ohio, at the Wesleyan university, at Delaware; studied law under Hon. Columbus Delano, and the late William R. Sapp, and was admitted to the bar in 1851. In 1863 he was elected to the Ohio State senate from the district composed of Wayne, Holmes, Knox, and Morrow counties. 'His law partner, Henry L. Curtis, is a native of this city, and studied law under the preceptorship of his father, the Hon. Henry B. Curtis. Mr. Curtis is a graduate of Kenyon college, and a young man of much promise.

Frank H. Hurd was educated at Kenyon college, from whence he. graduated in 1859, when only eighteen years old, and entered immediately upon the study of the law. He was admitted to the bar in 1862; and during the fall of the same year was elected prosecuting attorney. In' 1866 he was elected a member of the State senate. In 1867 Mr. Hurd removed to Toledo, Ohio, and in 1874 was elected to Congress from the Toledo district, and re-elected in 1878. He is the author of the Ohio Criminal Code of Procedure. In 1876 he published a second edition of his father's work on Habeas Corpus and one of his own on Homestead and other Exemptions.

William C. Cooper, a native of Mt.. Vernon, was admitted to the bar in 1854, and has had a 'successful career as an attorney, a politician, and in a military capacity. He enjoys the respect and esteem of all the citizens of the county.

David Carter Montgomery is a native of Pennsylvania, and was admitted to the bar in Mt Vernon in 1858. He was elected sheriff in 1846, and reelected in 1848.

Henry Harrison Greer is a native of the county, born in 1837. His law preceptors were Messrs, Delano, Sapp and Smith. He was admitted to the bar in 1860, and has enjoyed a successful professional career. In 1861 he was elected treasurer of the county, and served one term, refusing to be a candidate for a second term.

Joseph Watson is a native of Ireland; was born in 1827, and came to America in 1849, settling in Newark, Ohio. He came to Mount Vernon in 1850, and has resided here ever since. In 1859 he commenced reading law with the late Clark Irvine, sr.; was admitted to the bar in 1861, and began the practice of his profession. April, 1880, he opened an office in Columbus.

Charles Edward Critchfield commenced reading law in 1862 with the late Major William R. Sapp, and was admitted to the bar in 1864. He was in practice about fouryears.In 1869, 1872,and

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 245

1878, he was elected probate judge, which office he now holds.

Samuel J. Brent resumed the study of the law, which he had suspended in 1861 to enter the service of his country, and was admitted to the bar June, 1866. He has practiced about two years. He was elected clerk of the court of common pleas in 1869, and 1872, and re-elected for a third term in 1878.

David Wesley Wood, read law with Judge A. K. Dunn, of Mount Gilead, and was admitted to the bar in 1868, and to practice in Knox county in 1869.

Alfred R. McIntire commenced studying law, April 1, 1867, with the late judge Hurd; was admitted to the bar in 1869, and has followed his profession ever since. D. B. Kirk, the law partner of Mr. McIntire, is a son of the Hon. R. C. Kirk, and a native of Mount Vernon.

John Byron Waight, read law with Lewis Lewton, esq., of Cadiz, Ohio, and was admitted to the bar at Carrolton, Ohio, June,1873. In January, 1874, he opened an office at Mount Vernon, where he has since been practicing. January, 1880, the council appointed him city solicitor, to which position he was elected by the people in April, 1880.

Frank R Moore was educated in the city schools, and read law with Messrs. Cooper, Porter & Mitchell, and was admitted to the bar in 1875. Mr. Moore was elected prosecuting attorney in 1878, and re-elected in 1880.

Clark Irvine, jr., studied law with his father. He was elected prosecuting attorney in 1874, and reelected in 1876. At the State Democratic convention held at Cleveland, in 1880, he was elected a member of the Democratic State Central committee, and secretary of that body, and also of the ex. ecutive committee.

William McKee Koons read law under William McClelland, and was admitted to the bar July r, 1874. In his youthful days he learned the trade of machinist and drafting. In 1871, September, he was elected by the city council as city fire engineer, and continued as such until January, 1876. He was elected city solicitor April, 1876, and again in April, 1878, but resigned January, 1880. In the fall of 1879 he was elected a member of the Ohio house of representatives, which position he now holds.

Charles Austin Merriman read law at the Ann Arbor law school; was admitted to the bar in. Michigan, in 1876, and the same year in Ohio.

Frank C. Lewis was educated in the city schools, commenced reading law December 6, 1876, with H. H. Greer, and was admitted to the bar at Columbus February 6, 1878.

Sidney Wood began reading law in 1873 with his brother, D. W. Wood, and July 22, 1879, was admitted to the bar at Mount Gilead; also on the 29th of September, same year, to the bar of Indiana. In May, 1880, he formed a partnership with his brother, in Mount Vernon.

Frank Harper graduated from the city high school, June 22, 1877. He read law with Colonel W. C. Cooper; was admitted to the bar July 7, 1879, and has since practiced his profession.

Charles W. Doty came to Mt. Vernon with his parents in 1863. He read law in the office of General Morgan, and was admitted to the bar July 7, 1879.

A. B. Norton studied law with Colonel W. C. Cooper. He was admitted to practice in the supreme court at Columbus, January 6th, 1880.

A few members of the bar of Knox county went away from time to time to seek their fortunes in other fields, and some of these have became prominent in State and national affairs. Among them were Daniel S. Norton, jr., and William Windom, who left Mount Vernon about the same time, and cast their fortunes with the good people of the new State of Minnesota. Mr. Norton was born in this city, and Mr. Windom was a native of Middlebury township. Both settled in Winona. After a short residence in Minnesota, Mr. Windom was elected to the lower house of Congress. Mr. Norton, a few years later, was elected by the legislature a member of the United States senate. After a few years' service in that body with credit to himself and State, he died. Mr. Windom was elected his successor, and is now Secretary of the Treasury. He was, within the past year, frequently suggested as an available candidate for the Presidency.

Lafayette Emmett, a native born citizen of Mount Vernon, took up his residence in the same State while it was still a territory. After a short residence he was elevated to the bench of the supreme court

246 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

James Smith, jr., a son of the late Rev. James Smith, was admitted to practice in 1839. From that time up to 1856 he was an eminent member of the Knox county bar, and for many years practiced in company with the late Colonel Joseph W. Vance, who was killed at the battle of Sabine Cross Roads, April 8, 1864. In 1856 Mr. Smith took up his residence in St. Paul, and entered into partnership with judge Lafayette Emmett. He was a member of the Minnesota senate in x861, 1862, 1863, and 1865. He is now attorney for the St. Paul and Duluth land department.

A. Banning Norton took up his residence in Texas about 1857. He has been a member of the Texas legislature, postmaster at Dallas, and has twice been judge of the United States circuit court. A. Baldwin Norton entered the army and served as an efficient officer during the war of the Rebellion. He died a few years since while acting as superintendent of a number of tribes of western Indians.

Walter L. Simons located in Kansas, and was soon after elected to the State senate. William F. Turner went west, and became chief justice of Arizona. Fletcher W. Sapp, after practicing in Knox county a number of years, located in Iowa. He soon rose to eminence in his adopted State. He was appointed United States district attorney by the President, and served as colonel of an Iowa regiment during the War of the Rebellion. He is now serving a second term in congress. Henry B. Banning is mentioned in the military history of the county. He was a member of the lower house of congress, serving three terms.

Robert B. Mitchell, in 1846, shortly after his admission to the bar, volunteered for the Mexican war, and was elected first lieutenant of his company. He served until the close of the war, and came home in 1848. After practicing here some years, he went west. He served through the war of 1861, and came out a major-general. While stationed in, New Mexico, on the retirement of Governor Geary, he became acting governor of that territory. David A. Robertson left Mount Vernon and located in Lancaster. In 1850 he removed to St. Paul. A more extended notice of this gentleman will be found elsewhere.

James G. Chapman read law with Hon. H. B. Curtis, and subsequenly formed a co-partnership with that gentleman. As an attorney in the great sheepslaughtering case, about twenty-five years since, Chapman committed an unfortunate faux pas that worried him considerably, and some think it was the real cause of his going west. Be that as it may, the slaughter-pen became a nuisance, and the citizens made an effort to have it abated. The trial was a great one, and created considerable interest. Chapman was defending the sheep man, and thought the killing of so many sheep for their pelts and lard would result beneficially to the county, as it created a great demand for sheep. Chapman went west and became a member of the Nebraska legislature, and is doing well in his new home.

Julius B. Galusha was a student with Hon. Samuel Israel, and after his admission to the bar, became his partner. He removed to Monroe, Wisconsin, and became cashier of one of the banks there.

Caleb J. McNulty came to Mount Vernon from Zanesville about 1838. He is noticed elsewhere. William T. Curtis, a son, and William S. V. Prentiss, a step-son, of the late Hosmer Curtis, were in practice a short time about 1850. Young Curtis wandered off to Oregon, and Prentiss to Columbus, Ohio. Both are now dead.

Walter H. Smith is a citizen of Washington city, and was at one time solicitor of the United States treasury, and held an important position in the interior department. Mr. Smith is a well-read lawyer, and stood high in the profession here.

Louis H. Mitchell is one of the Knox county boys, who, while still a student in the city high school, left his books, took up a musket, and served through the War of the Rebellion. He was a first lieutenant in the regiment of Colonel Vance. After his return home he entered the law office of Colonel W. Cooper, studied the allotted time, was admitted to practice, and entered into partner ship with Colonel Cooper and Henry T. Porter. A few years since he removed to Chicago, and is doing well. There was another young Mitchell, Louis Y., who entered the army, fought through the war, and came out captain, studied law, and was duly admitted to practice. Several years ago he received an appointment in one of

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 247

the departments at Washington, D. C. Frank Green's career can be, stated in the same words as that of young Mitchell. Captain W. A. Coulter came to Mount Vernon from Delaware, Ohio. He had served in the war, and was a promising young lawyer, building up quite a practice in this county. About three years since he took up his residence at Detroit.

John J. Lennon is by birth a native of Canada. In 1861 he enlisted in a New York regiment, and served through the war with some distinction. About 1872 he came here from Wooster, Ohio, and commenced reading law. Shortly after, he was appointed superintendent of some Government work in the south, where lie remained something over a year, when he returned to Mount Vernon, finished his law course and was admitted to practice. In the early part of 1880 he removed to Columbus and formed a partnership with a leading lawyer in that city.

Of those members of the bar who still hold their residence in Mount Vernon, space will not permit an extended notice.

John Adams enjoys a high reputation as a lawyer and jurist, and is now serving out his second term as judge of the district court.

Abel Hart, jr., at one time a partner of judge Adams, is a lawyer of considerable ability. He has been twice elected prosecuting attorney. In 1876 and again in 1878 he represented the people of the county in the lower house of the State legislature.

Henry T. Porter is a native of Knox county, and has been in practice many years. Samuel Israel is a lawyer of long standing and high repute. His health for the past few years, requires him to devote himself to out-door labor.

J. D. Critchfield and J. B. Graham, doing business together, are establishing a large and paying legal business. Both are natives of the county, and both graduates of Kenyon college. John M. Critchfield, a son of Peres Critchfield, is a native of the county, and a graduate of Kenyon. He commenced his legal career in 1879. J. D. & D. F. Ewing, brothers, as well as partners, came to this county from the neighboring county of Holmes, about five years since. J. D. Ewing is now serving his second term as justice of the peace for Clinton township. Clark Irvine, sr., whose death occurred a few years since, was one of Mount Vernon's early attorneys. In 1850 he was elected prosecuting attorney, and made an efficient one. He was a man of rare mind and sound judgment. He was almost a self-educated man, and gathered during his legal career considerable business.

Emmet W. Cotton, although a member of the profession, has paid but little attention to it. He represented Knox county in the legislature during the sessions of 1846 and 1847, and also served the county as surveyor two or three terms. He was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1808, and came to this county in 1823.

John M. Andrews came to Mount Vernon in 1846. He has considerable practice.

B. A. F. Greer, a native of the county, entered the army at the commencement of his professional career, and served through the war of 1861. He came home broken down in health, caused by exposure, and served one term as justice of the peace for Clinton township; also, one term as probate judge of the county. Charles F. Baldwin, although by profession a lawyer, of late years has been engaged in other business. For a number of years he was in the employ of the internal revenue department of the General Government. At present he is engaged in the main office of the Pennsylvania railroad at Columbus. J. Clark Irvine, a son of the Hon. James C. Irvine, is practicing law in Missouri. A. A. Cassil, a son of Colonel Alexander Cassil, William B. Ewalt, R M. Brown, E. I. Mendenhall, H. Clay Robinson, and Samuel Kunkell, are all members of the bar. Mr. Cassil is city civil engineer of Mount Vernon. Mr. Mendenhall devotes his time and attention to the collecting and agency branch of the profession. Mr. Robinson follows the same line. Mr. Brown is mostly engaged in the collecting branch. Mr. Kunkell was admitted to the bar in 1879; his law preceptor being General G. W. Morgan. Before his admission he was twice elected county recorder. Samuel W. Farquhar was a member of the bar, but his time, while a resident of the county was entirely spent in some county office. He is now a citizen of Iowa. Samuel F. Gilcrist, about 1850, was a prominent attorney. He represented the district of Holmes and Knox in the State legislature in that year, and

248 - HISTORY OP KNOX COUNTY.

was elected probate judge in 1852. He moved west-and died. Mr. R S. Lockwood and a Mr. McIntyre opened a law office in the old market houseabout1850. Mr. Lockwood was a preacher, also, and Was at one time mayor of the city. Some years since he went west. About two years since he came back sick, and died. Mr. McIntyre, also went west. Josephus Ricketts was also a lawyer here about 1850.

The bar of Knox county has already furnished one governor, two United States senators, eight members of the lower house of Congress, six State senators, ten representatives to the lower house, five judges of circuit courts, four probate judges, one United States attorney, one commissioner of internal revenue, one Secretary of the Interior, one solicitor of the United States treasury, one clerk of the lower house of Congress, one foreign minister, two foreign consuls, one Indian superintendent, two major generals in the United States army, one brigadier general in the United States army, one State marshal, three members of Constitutional conventions. As to candidates on State tickets, the bar has furnished for governor, one; for judges, of the supreme court, three, and for attorney general, two. There is hardly an office in Knox county below the grade of probate judge that has not been filled by members of the bar.

Knox county may well feel proud of the record made by her "Bench and Bar."

(NOTE -- More complete sketches of many members of the Mount Vernon bar may be found in the biographical department of this work.]

CHAPTER XXVII.

PUBLIC BUILDINGS OF THE COUNTY.

FOUR COURT HOUSES-THREE JAILS-TWO INFIRMARY

BUILDINGS-MATTERS OF INTEREST CONNECTED WITH

THESE BUILDINGS.

THE court houses of Knox county have been four in number, and in expense of building, material, architectural beauty, etc, have kept pace with the prosperity and gradually increasing wealth of the people.

The first court house was built of logs about 1808 or 1809, and stood on the public square, near the intersection of Main and High streets, on the south side of High and west side of Main, and facing Main. It was but one story in height; fifteen by eighteen feet in size; covered with clapboards, held on by "lug" poles; was lighted by greased paper windows; with the usual large fireplace and mud chimney at one end; no floor but mother earth, and in all other respects as primitive as it was possible for a court house to be. It was only in existence about three or four years when it was removed and a new one erected.

This second building was made of brick and stood on the north side of and facing High street, and on the public square, not far from and east of Main street. The ground upon which it stood was probably ten or more feet higher than at the present time, and while grading Main street about 1828, Mr. Norton, the supervisor, plowed so near the foundation as to weaken it; this being the primary cause of its downfall. It was a square building, two stories in height, with a roof sloping from four sides to the centre upon which stood the cupola, or little square box for the bell. It had double doors on the south and west sides, thus facing both Main and High streets.

Regarding this "new" court house the commissioner's journal of that time contains this entry:

Solomon Geller and George Downs did receive by subscription seven hundred and forty-five dollars.

On the tenth of April, 1812, the following entry is made

The commissioners this day did examine the court house built by George Downs and Geller, and do receive the same.

No sooner is the new court house ready for use than the commissioners become involved in trouble about its occupancy, by different sects, as will be explained by the following entries on the journal

Whereas, a number of the inhabitants of this county have made application for the use of the court house in Mt. Vernon, for the purpose of occupying the same for preaching and holding public worship therein; it is therefore, ordered that the different denominations of Christians are allowed to occupy the same for the aforesaid purpose provided that each denomination shall have the use of the same for-one meeting once in four weeks; provided, also, that the different denominations aforesaid shall meet and mutually agree upon the time or times they shall hold the same, which shall be in force for one year unless they do not agree on the times they shall hold their meetings aforesaid, and each denomination failing to clean up the house

HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY. - 249

and leave the same in as good repair as they found it within three days, shall forfeit their privilege aforesaid, and shall at all times be liable to make good all damages done by such denomination at their meeting aforesaid; and James Smith shall keep the key of the house aforesaid; it is further provided, that each denomination aforesaid shall furnish the said house with at least fifty feet of good strong benches for the use of the house aforesaid, which shall be left there for the use of all pubick business which shall be necessary previous to such denomination occupying the said house for the purpose aforesaid.

Eminently catholic and practical-especially the bench part.

The brethren could not dwell together in unity, and accordingly the commissioners on the eighth of June, 1813, passed this resolution:

Resolved, That the court house, from this date, beclosed and kept lockt from all denominations except courts.

This brought about a cessation of hostilities, and again petitions poured in for use of the court house, agreeing to agree as to the time of using it, etc. Thereupon Commissioners Herrod, Cooper, and McMillen, on the twenty-second of June met for the special purpose of ordering "That the court house be opened as formerly, by and under the same rules as formerly-."

One difficulty was that the Methodists were unwilling to let the "New Lights," who formerly belonged to the Methodist church, occupy the court house for the purpose of holding meetings.

On the commissioners' book for July, 1814, appears another item regarding this court house, to the effect that the building is found to need repairing, and Solomon Geller purchases the privilege of making the repairs for seven hundred and ninety-nine dollars and seventy cents.

The wall of this court house began to crumble about 1828, owing, as before stated, to the dirt being taken away from the foundation in grading; and October 18, 1828, James McGibeny made a contract with the commissioners to build a stone wall to support the building, but it was too late, the building fell. December 2d the commissioners issued an order for forty dollars payable to P. S. Brown for loss and damage to his office, caused by the falling of the wall; his office being in the basement of the building.

Preparations were immediately made for erecting the third court house; meanwhile the court held its sessions in what was known as the "Golden Swan Inn," then kept by Thomas Irvine, which stood on the southwest corner of Main and Gambier streets. This tavern was one of the institutions of the town, and a famous place for many years.

This third court house was also of brick, and stood on the public square, on the northwest corner of Main and High streets. It was two stories and a basement in height, and fronted on Main street., The roof projected out over the front of the building and was supported by white, fluted columns. The entrance to the basement was from High street, and the entrance to the court room and first floor was from Main street, by a few steps. A high bank rose in the rear of the building, coming up to the second floor on that side, thus allowing daylight to enter the basement only on the east and south sides. The basement was rented out for shops and stores, the first floor was used for the court room and one or two offices, and the second floor was devoted to offices.

The following regarding this is from Mr. Norton's history.

The court house was no sooner down than the commissioners ordered proposals to be published in the Standard and Advertiser, for the purpose of making donations for the building of a new court house, and for a plan of building, etc. On the twentieth of January, 1829, they agreed with Thomas Irvine for his brick house for a court house, at twenty-five dollars per term, in orders on the county treasury. In April, James Smith is notified by Marvin Tracy that the commissioners have obtained Thomas Irvine's bar room for an office. The levy for taxes in Knox county, June, 1829, was one and a half mills on the dollar, on the whole valuation of property in said county, for State purposes, and one and a half for canal purposes, making three mills upon the dollar for State and canal purposes; and the commissioners, by and with the consent of the judges of the court of common pleas, levied a tax of three mills on the dollar for county purposes, one mill for road purposes, and three-fourths of a mill for school purposes; one of the three mills shall be assessed and collected and appropriated for the building of the court house, and for no other purpose whatever.

At the June session, the following entry is made: " The account of James Smith, presented to the board of commissioners, for one year, from June 1, 1828, to June 1, 1829, including the rent unpaid at last settlement, books and stationery for clerk's office, all of which was rejected by the board. The charges for one year's firewood, which was twelve dollars. From which decision the said Smith prays an appeal to the court of common pleas as to the fire-wood." That record is clear, is it not? The resolutions of the commissioners, published in the Standard and Advertiser, in reference to the building of a court house, represent that "they will meet on the fifteenth of July, for the purpose of receiving donations, etc.; giving the public square one thousand dollars; preference for location, etc.; otherwise at any point in the town plat where one thousand dollars is subscribed," etc. On the fifteenth of July, the commissioners met,

250 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY.

and adjourned till the twenty-fourth of August, to receive donations, etc., for new court house.

On the eleventh of September public notice is given in the Western Aurora and in the Advertiser and Standard, of sale of contract to build a court house, to the lowest bidder, on the fifth of October next, &c. Peris Sprague is authorized to get E. G. Carlin, or some other person, to make and draft a plat for the same. This plan, as agreed upon, appears on the journal, specifying that the building is to be erected on the west side of Main street and north side of High street, and that one thousand dollars is to be paid to the contractor on the tenth of January, 1830, and one thousand dollars annually, thereafter, and all orders to be expressly understood to be paid when due and presented. Edward G. Carlin is paid county order for ten dollars, for making plat of new court house, and describing timbers, dimensions, &c. Richard House, for assisting Carlin in describing the plan, is paid one dollar and fifty cents.

October 5th. The building of the court house is sold to John Shaw for five thousand four hundred and eighty-five dollars, who enters into bond with Byram Leonard, Philo Norton, Charles Sager, Solomon Geller, Thomas Irvine and H. B. Carter, in the sum of ten thousand nine hundred and seventy dollars. Such is the record of the third court house built in Mount Vernon, which stood on the public square until 1853. It was built of brick, two stories high, with a cupola, and a very imposing building in its time. It answered well its part for many yearsmay we not say for that generation, as almost all then upon the stage of action have passed hence without day. The supreme court, district and associate judges, the commissioners, sheriff, auditor, assessor, treasurer, surveyor, and coroner, the contractor and his sureties are all, all dead.

This court house seems also to have been poorly constructed and was partially destroyed by a storm of wind and rain that passed over Mount Vernon, Sunday night, April 9, 1854. The damage, in dollars and cents, was estimated at from one thousand five hundred dollars to two thousand dollars. The injury to the building was too severe to warrant repairs. The storm came from the southwest, and striking the west gable raised the roof and heavy timbers from their positions, and threw the rafters, shingles, etc., across Main street several hundred feet. The large brick chimneys of the west end were thrown down, and the bricks of the west gable wall blown into the main building itself, with such force that they were carried through both floors of the building, and landed, a mass of rubbish, in the clerk's office in the basement below. The two court rooms were completely demolished. The judges' bench, table, and files of the probate judge were carried below, and there piled together, and mixed in with those of the common pleas court. The clerk of the supreme court, Alexander C. Elliott, was sleeping in his room below at the time, and very narrowly escaped with his life. He was awakened by the falling of a large stove pipe across the head of his bed. He managed to get under the bed where he remained until the violence of the storm had passed, when he made his way to the residence of his mother on East High street. Sheriff Wade and Daniel Clark were the first to reach the scene of disaster, and remained there during the night engaged in rescuing the papers of the court rooms.

After this catastrophe the court was again compelled to seek quarters by renting, and for a time occupied "George's Hall," on Gambier street near Main.

Preparations were immediately made for the erection of the present court house, which occupies a pleasant site on the hill can the north side of High street, and appears solid and substantial as if it might withstand the storms of centuries.

The bell of the old court house now does service for the fire department, and hangs in the cupola of, the third ward engine house and council chamber. That bell, and a small table made from the lumb