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CHAPTER XXX.*

COPLEY TOWNSHIP—EARLY PHYSICAL CONDITION — NAMES OF EARLY SETTLERS — PIONEER
IMPROVEMENTS—RISE AND PROGRESS OF INDUSTRIES—COPLEY
CENTER — SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES.

THE generations of today can scarcely realize the hardships passed through by their parents and grandparents more than half a century ago. The country was covered with an unbroken forest, through which wild animals and wild men roamed at will, and nothing but continued toil and privation could be expected if pleasant homes were to be created. The roads were mere paths through the woods, and these were in a state bordering on chaotic. Indeed, it is averred by the early settlers that during the spring of the year they could be traveled in but one direction—toward China—and during the remainder caused many a sober and moral man to violate his church vows. What. caused the greatest anxiety, however, was the extreme difficulty in getting supplies of every kind. Men who came to the back woods with but little money or property and a large family of almost helpless children, were, indeed, to be pitied, as, in nine cases out of ten, a mis

*Contributed by W. A. Goodspeed.erable existence was before them, without any satisfactory promise of improvement for a score or more of years. Store supplies of all kinds were almost fabulous in price ; wages were reduced to a starving minimum ; crops raised under trying and adverse circumstances brought scarcely any return ; schools did not exist, even in name ; neighbors were far apart, each struggling to make a living, and the homes were cheerless, uninviting, and too often uncomfortable. This is the darker side of the picture. Some families came to the backwoods with abundant means. These succeeded in rendering their situation comfortable, and very often attractive, and, after a comparatively short period were independent and happy. Many times families were compelled to relinquish their farms and return to their former homes in the East.

The long slopes of land in Copley Township render it one of the most beautiful tracts of land in the county. The vision is not bounded

640 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

by short distances, but extends across extensive valleys or basins, through which the principal streams flow. These valleys are not bounded bluffs, but have a gradual ascent, in some cases, for several miles, and the higher lands, even after that distance, do not reach an altitude but little exceeding eighty feet. However, there is some rough land in the township, perhaps mostly in the eastern and southern portions. Wolf Creek enters from the west. crossing Lots 31, 32, 39, 42. 43, 48 and 47. Pigeon Creek rises in the northwest corner, and flows across Lots 11, 20, 19, 22, 23, 17, 24, 25 and 26. Shocolog Creek (an Indian name. probably) rises in the northern part. and crosses Lots 3, 8, 7, 14, 17, 16 and 25. The land bordering these streams, with some exceptions, is swampy even at the present day, and in early years must have been great bodies of muck and water. Wolf Creek. throughout the most of its course, is not so swampy. Shocolog Pond is an enlargement of the creek of the same name. White Pond is located on Lot 35, and Black Pond on Lot 36. In several places along the swampy valleys of these streams. there are what might be called islands. These are small, irregularshaped bodies of land, rising in some cases fifteen or twenty feet above the level of the swamp, and presenting the appearance of having been surrounded with water at no very remote period. One of these, called " Fort Island," near the residence of Delos Bosworth, is the site of what is unquestionably the remains of an ancient earth fortification. A description of this interesting " fort " will be found elsewhere in this volume. An island near this is called " Beech Island," and is supposed to have been used in ancient times as a cemetery, and small mounds, resembling graves, are pointed out. Another body of land farther down the same stream (Shocolog Creek) is called "Sugar Island." Pigeon Creek, after leaving the township from Lot 26, takes a circuit in Portage Township, and returns, crossing Lots 36, 45 and 46. These three lots are covered with an extensive swamp, which, in early days, was the resort of countless millions of pigeons that came there to roost. In fact, all along the valleys of these streams, the pigeons were accustomed to assemble in spring and autumn. Large numbers were killed and eaten by our parents. It was dangerous to enter the swamps at night, as very often large limbs were broken from the trees when the birds settled upon them. An unusual noise would cause millions to rise, and after they had circled around a short time in the darkness, all the time following a leader, they would suddenly descend, and, very likely, all would try to alight on the same tree, which would be broken down. In the northeast part is a small creek, called Sand Run. An abundance of excellent sandstone is to be found in the township. The traveler over Copley notices that the township is crossed by several prominent ridges, which have a general direction east and west. These ridges are a mile or two apart, and seemingly belong to that series of terraces or ridges, which extends across Ohio, south of Lake Erie and north of the watershed, which geologists maintain was formed during the Glacial period. On the farm of William Wagner is a large mound, supposed by some to have been built by the MoundBuilders. and by others to have been formed by natural means during the Glacial epoch.

The whereabouts of the early records of the township is unknown or forgotten, and thus much interesting material is placed beyond the ! reach of the historian. " What is everybody's business is nobody's business," is verified in the case of the early records. The proceedings on the occasion of the organization of the township are always interesting, and will continue to become more so as time advances. A few items are recollected and these will be recorded in their proper connection. The first settler in the township is said to have been Jonah Turner, who came from Pennsylvania and located on the Stony Ridge east of Miller's Tavern. He came in 1814, and built a small log cabin. A year or two before, Turner had marched along what is now well known as the Smith road with the battalion under Maj. Crogan, of which he was a member. The army had camped near where Turner afterward selected his farm, and on this occasion (as is related) he concluded that, if his life was spared through the dangers of war, he would locate in that vicinity. He lived here until his death. William Green also came to Copley in 1814. It is not known to the writer whether this man was a relative of Gardner Green, one of the purchasers of the township, from Connecticut, or not. The latter owned perhaps more than any other of the original proprietors, and in his honor the town-

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ship had been informally styled " Greenfield ; " but afterward, for some reason unknown, the name was changed to Copley in honor of Green's wife, whose maiden name was Copley. These two were probably the only settlers in the township until the fall of 1815, when Samuel Hawkins came from the Green Mountain State, and located in the northwest corner. His son, George Washington, was the first white child born in Copley, his birth occurring December 29, 1815. The following list is only approximately correct : Lawrence Moore, a Scotchman who had come to America in 1797, settled on Lot 1. in 1816. He was a sailor, and soon after coming to this country was impressed on board the British frigate, Tartar, where he served for six years, but finally purchased his release by paying $1,225. Moore built a small log cabin, and lived until a few years ago. In 1817, Allen Bosworth came from Rhode Island, and settled near the center. His son Delos was the second child born in the township, his birth occurring in January of the following year. Delos Bosworth is yet living, and it is due to his unusually retentive memory that many of the events narrated here are rescued from falling into forgetfulness. In 1818, Jacob Spafford, Nathaniel Davis. Jonathan Starr and Gat Yale arrived. In 1819. Chester Orcutt came. In 1820, Parker and Benjamin Taylor. and within the next ten years the first settlers came about as follows : David, Samuel and James Griffin, H. C. Aikens. Nathaniel Norville, Erastus. Flavil and Harvey Beckworth. David Taylor, Chauncey and William Davis, Smith and Austin Hull, Noah, Albert and Thomas Spafford, Rudd Hopkins, Levitt and Peter Wicks. Benjamin Sandford, Noah Robinson and others. There also came in soon afterward Henry Francisco, Jackson Chapman, Ashabel Chapman, H. D. Patch, William and Hiram Randall. James Smith. Frank Wilcox, Darwin and Cullen Clark, Lorenzo Russell, Joseph Younglove, William Hanson, Dr. Alpheus Babcock, S. P. Starr, Thomas Cole, Dow Hanson. Lawrence Brewer, Alonzo Coon, George Traver, William, Jacob and Thomas Weager, M. D. Pratt, John Mann and several others. Dr. Elijah Canfield and his brother William came in about 1824. Prior to 1835, there also came in Lyman Green, William Huxley, Chauncey Lease, Robert Stimpson, Henry Begun, Daniel, Joseph and Richard Riley, Daniel Sandford, John Pratt, Salmon Haysington and several others.

In 1825, evidences of civilization were everywhere apparent. Log houses sprang up from all directions, and various industries began to arise. The settlers slowly began to surround themselves with something more than the bare necessities of life. Schools, churches, mills, etc., began to appear, and something like pleasure was felt in living in the fast disappearing forests.

The homely ways and rude garb began to give way before the advance of the autocrat Fashion. Calico could be obtained for less than 75 cents a yard ; axes were no longer $5 or $6 ; all supplies steadily decreased in cost, as the roads and means of transportation became better ; wages for the poor man were soon higher, and the township, and indeed many other townships in Ohio, entered an era of prosperity unknown to it before. In 1281, a ball was given in the township, at which all attended. The girls came out with their calico dresses with flowing skirts, and the boys appeared in the rustic garb of fashionable pioneers. The entertainment was a financial enterprise, created in the brain of Smith Hull, who agreed to furnish everything necessary except whisky and music, provided each gentleman would chop wood for him two days. Roswell Barnett played the fiddle, for which each couple paid him a bushel of corn (not the juice). All was gayety and enjoyment. Cupid, the little wretch, was abroad, armed with bow and arrows, whose barbed points had been dipped in the green poison of jealousy. His skill at archery was better than usual on that occasion, and even he, hardhearted though he be, must have enjoyed the music and dance, as during the evening he shot several arrows into warm hearts—arrows that had not been poisoned with jealousy—hearts that were afterward united. The ball was a domestic event, as well as a financial success. " Scheming mammas " were present to select husbands for their daughters—at least they were present. There was snow on the ground, and what a merry time they had going home. How " eyes looked love to eyes," and each throbbing heart beat a responsive echo to the one near it ! How short seemed the walk through the woods, and how the parting was, protracted, as the first warm kiss of love was given and returned !

642 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

There comes to the mind the sweet music of Burns

" How sweetly bloomed the gay green birk!

     How rich the hawthorn's blossom!

As underneath their fragrant shade.

     I clasped her to my bosom.

The golden hours on angel wings

     Flew o'er me and my dearie:

For dear to me as life and light.

     Was my sweet Highland Mary."

" Wi' mony a vow and locked embrace.

     Our parting was fu' tender:

And pledging aft to meet again

     We tore oursel's assunder."

But the walk, so short and enjoyed so much, was ended—the sweet dream. like a vision of heaven passed away, and the sober realities of pioneer life swept over the bright scene with their gloom and shadow. How many hearts that on that happy evening beat with love for the first time, could afterward cry out in sorrow as Burns did

“O! pale. pale now, those rosy lips.

     I aft hae kissed sae fondly:

And clos'd for aye that sparkling glance.

     That dwelt on me sae kindly.
And moldering now in silent (lust.

     The heart that loved me dearly:

Yet still within my bosom's core.

     Shall live my Highland Mary."

Is there anything more precious than the sweet recollection of a sainted face that was once so bright in youth and health, but which now lies pale and cold in the embrace of death ? Ah ! how many hearts, in the morning of life, with every prospect delightful and every impulse of heart and mind ennobled by the vision of divine ideals, have been stricken down in frenzied sorrow as their earthly idols were laid low in the dust—have gone weeping away, clothed in the mourning raiment of' sackcloth and ashes. Then how kind is Solace to enter the sorrowing heart with sweet promises of the renewal of love in the shadowy world revealed to us in dreams.

Copley belonged to Medina County before Summit County was created. It was Township 2, Range 12, of the Western Reserve, and was one of six which composed Wolf Creek Township, the others being Norton, Wadsworth, Sharon, Guilford and Montville. It was organized into a distinct township, with its present boundaries and territory, in July, 1819. The first township election was held in1 the barn of Allen Bosworth, as is shown by the following, which is quoted from the records : " On motion, Thomas Beckwith was elected Chairman, and then the meeting was adjourned to the barn of Allen Bosworth for the purpose of doing business." A year or two before, Lawrence Moore had been commissioned one of the Justices of Wolf Creek Township, of which Copley was a part, and after the creation of the latter he served out his time. At this first election, Joseph Bostworth and Jonathan Starr were rival candidates for the position of Justice of the Peace (not much rivalry, however, as neither was anxious to officiate in that capacity). Thirteen votes were polled, of which Bosworth received seven and Starr six. Owing to some imperfection, either in the election or in the qualification, these proceedings were annulled. and a new election was ordered to be held June 10, 1820, at which time Starr was elected. From the fact that the official duties in early years *ere light or altogether wanting, it was customary to honor one man with the responsibility and dignity of several offices. It thus occurred that Starr was the first Township Clerk. Thomas Beckwith was elected Supervisor iii April. 1820, and Jacob Spafford and Lawrence Moore were elected Overseers of the Poor. The names of the other early officers are forgotten. The first lawsuit begun in Copley was before Justice Lawrence Moore. Suit was instituted at the suggestion of David Point, whose wife had loaned a spinningwheel to Mrs. William Green. the latter. as was alleged, refusing to return certain portions of the machine. The matter was compromised before trial through the influence of Moore, who advised Mrs. Point in this wise : You keep the grass too well trod between your houses ; let it grow thicker, and you will agree better." Some years afterward, Gat Yale arose one Sunday morning, and going out, discovered a bear endeavoring to escort a member of the genus &s. against its wishes and vociferous protests, into the forest ; whereupon Yale, regardless of the day, pursued the bear and shot it. He was prosecuted before Squire Moore for violating the Sabbath, and, upon conviction, was fined $1. Whether this had anything to do with Gat's subsequent conduct is not known ; but he soon afterward joined the Mormon ranks, and was living, not many years

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ago, at Salt Lake City. From the fact that most of the earlier settlers of Copley have passed away like the twilight, and also that the township was settled later than others in its vicinity, it has been impossible to get possession of personal incidents of adventure, without which a township record lacks an attractive feature. That many exciting and interesting hunts took place in early years is well known to the citizens. A circular hunt was instituted in about the year 1823, and a large portion or the whole of the township was inclosed. The venter was one of the large swamps. But little could be learned y the writer concerning this hunt, except that quite a large number of deer, bears, wolves. etc.. was killed. It is related, that, in the disposal of the game after the hunt had ended, two men, each of whom entertained a bitter grudge against the other, became angry. and a savage and protracted fight occurred, in which both men were badly used up. William Cogswell, who settled in Granger Township, Medina County, was one of the most noted of the early hunters in this section of country. He often penetrated the swamps in Copley. and, if the facts could be known, many an exciting and dangerous hunt, in which he played the role of a star actor, could be told. Almost all of the earliest settlers who had arrived at man's estate when they first came in could boast of having killed bears during the few earliest years. At that time, it was no trouble to kill deer. as even the most inexperienced could fire a rifle (if they had a rest), and often that was the only effort necessary to bring down the quarry.

It was not long ere Copley was well populated, with numerous industries and institutions, which arose to improve the domestic, intellectual and moral status of the citizens. The steady and extensive demand for alcoholic drinks gave rise (as it always will) to numerous distilleries, which began to furnish an abundance of whisky, which numbers its victims by the millions. So prevalent had become the practice of drinking, and so many men had become confirmed drunkards, despite reiterated statements to the contrary, that efforts, made in a few localities to end the manufacture and consumption, attracted general attention, and were imitated throughout not only Copley and vicinity, but over the State and country. These efforts received a splendid impetus in about 1830, at which time almost every township in what is now Summit County organized wellattended temperance societies, and soon the various organizations could number its members in the aggregate by thousands. In 1828. the church societies throughout the country recommended a day to be observed in humiliation, fasting and prayer, on account of the prevailing sin of intemperance. In accordance with this recommendation, a meeting was announced to be held for the purpose stated at the old log schoolhouse, on the northwest corner of Copley. The house was filled with enthusiastic people, and prayers for the speedy termination of the prevailing evil were freely offered. Remarks were made by several of those present, during which the pointed question was asked, " Is it consistent for Christians to pray for the abrogation of any particular sin, or evil, when their actions and influence favor its continuance ?" This question unmasked the whole situation, and led to a spirited discussion as to what should be done in the case by consistent and earnest Christian people. A committee was appointed to draft a constitution, which was to be submitted for adoption or rejection at a subsequent meeting. On the 29th of January, 1829, the committee reported the following preamble and constitution, which is given in full, as it is said, on good authority, to have been the first one drafted and adopted in Ohio :

Viewing, with feelings of deep regret, the fatal consequences resulting from the intemperate use of ardent spirits, and believing that so far from contributing to health, happiness or prosperity, the immoderate use of ardent spirits has a direct tendency to destroy health, debase the understanding and corrupt the morals ; and that it introduces vice and misery into families, and has a demoralizing influence on the community at large.

We, therefore, the subscribers, professing to be friends to morality and good order, and desiring to lend our influence to check the progress of an evil so fatal in its consequences, do hereby form ourselves into a Temperance Society, by adopting and adhering to the following constitution :

ARTICLE 1. This society shall be called "The First Temperance Society of Medina County."

ART. 2. The object of the compact shall be the suppression of intemperance, by doing away with the unnecessary use of ardent spirits.

ART. 3. The members of this society pledge themselves not to use ardent spirits, unless necessary for the promotion of health or its restoration, and also to discourage their use by others.

Any. 4. (Refers to the duties and appointment of officers).

ART. 5. The members of the compact shall make use of the means in their power to prevent the in

644 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

temperate use of ardent spirits, and shall use their endeavors to disseminate a knowledge of the direful and fatal effects of intemperance upon individuals and upon society generally.

ART. 6. (Refers to the time of holding meetings).

ART. 7. Each meeting shall be opened and closed by prayer.

ART. 8. Any person may be a member of this society, by signing the foregoing articles and adhering to the same.

ART. 9. This constitution may be altered by a majority vote of the society, notice being given to that effect at a previous meeting.

John Codding, of Coddingville, is believed to have been the writer of this constitution. It was the first declaration of temperate independence in Ohio, and the first four persons who appended their " John Hancock's " to this interesting document are. in order, as follows : Lawrence Moore, John Codding, Burt Codding and Charles Goodwin. This organization did good work, and yet, apparently. it did not decrease, inthe least, the use of alcoholic drinks ; for, while some few signed and kept the pledge. many—through spite or otherwise—resisted the movement, and encouraged the manufacture and consumption of whisky. The organization of the society was largely brought about by the evil effects of several distilleries which had early been erected in the township, and which were doing a large business. The first one had been erected by Chancey and William Davis, about half a mile north of the Center, in the year 1820. Their grain was ground at neighboring mills, and finally at Akron, and, despite the establishment of temperance societies and the attack made on intemperance, this distillery was conducted for more than thirty years, turning out during its continuance large quantities of whisky, brandy, gin, and wine for sacramental and other purposes. It is said to have averaged as high as fifty gallons a day, and large quantities were shipped to distant points, and a fine revenue was returned to the owners. In about 1826, Allen Bosworth erected a distillery one half mile west of the Center. He did a large, paying business for a number of years, and then rented the distillery to Alonzo Coon, who also conducted the business almost as extensively. It is said that the distillery averaged about fortyfive gallons a day while it was conducted. The building and apparatus were purchased in 1842, by Heman Oviatt, who almost immediately closed out the business. About this time, Alonzo Coon built another on the opposite side of the road. He also manufactured extensively for some foul years, when he severed his connection with the business. Daniel Arnold erected a distillery it about the year 1840, and for some ten or twelve years averaged about twentyfive gallons o1 liquor a day, at the end of which time he like. wise changed his occupation. William Welhouse built an institution of the same kind about the same time, and averaged some forty gallons a day during the greater part of ten years. This sums up the record of these distilleries, and yet it is impossible to write their complete history. Who shall tell of the evil done by them, of the homes and lives made desolate, of the misery created in families that before were bright with the sunshine of happiness. The business was so common, that those engaged in it thought no evil of what they were doing ; and, in earlier days, the manufacture was considered respectable and even laudable, as the distilleries furnished a market for grain. and supplied whisky, which, on account of custom, was indispensable to farm management. It thus occurred, that many of the most respected and prominent citizens were engaged in the manufacture and sale of liquor.

It is thought that Chancey and William Davis built the first sawmill in the township. It was located a short distance north of the village. They put in the same building a turninglathe and one run of stone for grinding grain. A dam was built across Pigeon Creek, and a fair waterpower was obtained by means of a race. After operating the mill about ten years. it was sold to Reuben Lord. It afterward was owned. and operated for short periods by Col. John Stearns, Charles Fuller, Henry Clark, George Welhouse, Charles Crum, Henry Stimpson, Ransom Arnold, and several others. It is yet standing, and is owned by Mr. Arnold. While in the possession of Mr. Lord, the turninglathe and set of stones were removed, and were not afterward replaced. The mill has always been a good one, and, in its time, has furnished large quantities of lumber, much of which may yet be found in dwellings and other buildings over a large tract of country.

Lawrence Moore built a sawmill in about the year 1830, locating it on Yellow Creek, in the northwest part of the township. It was abandoned at the end of some ten or

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twelve years. A sawmill was built on Wolf Creek, in about the year 1832, by Col John Stearns, but was sold a year or two later to Benjamin Stimpson, who, after operating it six or eight years, sold out to John Hetrick, upon whose hands it ran down, and was not subsequently rebuilt or reoperated. Parker & Tyler built one on the same stream a year or two after the erection of the last mentioned, and after operating it quite extensively fifteen or twenty years, it was purchased by Allen Pardee, who improved it and built a gristmill on the same dam. The sawmill was soon afterward discontinued. Peter and Levitt Wicks also built a sawmill on Wolf Creek prior to 1835. At the expiration of about five years, the mill was purchased by George Welhouse, under whose management it was conducted successfully for about fifteen years, when it went into the possession of Mr. Austin, who removed the machinery to another locality. Chancey Davis and Col. Stearns built a sawmill in the swamps in the eastern part, in about the year 1844. It ran for a number of years, and was burned down, but was rebuilt. It was abandoned long ago. Two or three others have been built in the swamps in later years, the most of which have been operated y steam. David Grill built one within the corporate limits of the village some seven years ago. It is operated by steam. A cardingmill was erected at an early day on Wolf Creek. but after two or three years, the enterprise was abandoned.

The gristmill, conducted y the Davis Brothers north of town, was the first in Copley. Allen Pardee conducted his gristmill, mentioned above, until some sixteen years ago. Charles Zeigler owns and operates the mill at present. It is said that Allen Pardee was the only one among the early owners of gristmills who derived a paying income from the business. The mill under his management is said to have been excellent, and a large amount of merchant work was done in addition to the regular custom work. Mr. Welhouse, at the time he got possession of the sawmill on Wolf Creek, built a gristmill on the same dam, which was burned down some ten years later. It was a good mill, and did good work. Col. Stearns and Darwin Clark built a gristmill at the Center in about 1858, in which were placed three run of stone. The mill started finely, but, two years later, was burned to the ground, and was not afterward rebuilt.

In 1837, a stock company was formed for the purpose of furnishing teams and a stage, to be run from Cleveland to Massillon, by the way of Brecksville, Copley and Clinton. Some $2,500 worth of stock was subscribed and paid in, and sixteen horses were purchased to be used on the route. The round trip from Cleveland was made in two days by a change of horses at the different stations. The Shepard Brothers, at Brecksville, had been largely instrumental in securing the subscription, and some twenty or twentyfive men along the route had taken stock in the company, several of whom lived in Copley. About a year after the stage began running, for some cause which the writer was unable to learn, all the horses were taken to Cleveland, where they were detained, and the stage ceased its regular trips. The company was not incorporated, the members being simply bound together by a naked contract. The detention of the horses at Cleveland was probably a scheme to defraud the greater number of the members out of their stock. But this was not to be permitted, and several citizens along the route went to Cleveland and got at least a number of the horses, and the matter was finally adjusted.

The first building at the center was a log schoolhouse, located opposite Mr. Cole's Hotel, and was built in the year 1819. In referring to the village, the present corporate limits are not included, but simply the clusters of houses at the geographical center. According to the reports, the next building was the Thomas store, built by Peter and Levitt Wicks in about the year 1826. These men, as stated several, placed in the building about $500 worth of goods, which they continued to sell until they were bought out by Oviatt & Baldwin. Other reports are to the effect that the Wicks Brothers did not keep a stock of goods at all but that the storeroom was unoccupied until it was purchased y Oviatt & Baldwin. At least, it is known that the latter firm placed goods valued at about $2,000 in the room, in about the year 1832, and continued selling some five years, when the partnership was dissolved, and the junior member entered the Cole Hotel, which had been erected y him two years before, and formally opened the building for the entertainment of the public. After the dissolution of

646 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

the partnership, Mr. Oviatt almost immediately retired, and engaged in other pursuits. Patch & Robinson succeeded him, probably buying his stock of goods, which was increased ; but these men retired after about one year and a half. They were followed by Robert Codding, who likewise engaged in other pursuits after two or three years. The room remained unoccupied for a short time ; but, in 1845. Augustus Warner entered it with a small stock, which was steadily increased, until, at the expiration of six years, it was worth at least $3.000. He kept a good store, and is said to have made considerable money, which he knew how to save. Nash & Stebbins followed Warner, but two years later they were succeeded by John Starr, who continued until the spring of 1865, making in the meantime no little money. He then sold to Mr. Lamey. who, at the end of eighteen months, transferred the stock to William P. Craig, the latter remaining in the business some six years. Nathan Furst was Craig's partner. at least, a portion of the time. He continued the pursuit after the retirement of Craig. but six months later failed. and his goods were sold at auction and otherwise throughout the surrounding country. The building was then vacant a year or so. after which Mr. Gardner placed in it a small stock of goods ; but in about 1875, 0. T. Lane began with a new stock. and two years later sold to Callow & Leonard. The building is at present occupied by Mr. Thomas.

The town hall building was erected by Joseph and Henry White in about the year 1837. It was designed for a storeroom, but for some reason unexplained was not entered until about 1841. when Wicks & Parmele placed a stock of goods in the building, and conducted the mercantile pursuit some three years. when Parmelee purchased his partner's share, and soon afterward removed his stock to the Welhouse settlement, at which place he, sold goods for a number of years. Two or three other parties were in the White building for a short time. George Babcock was in with a small stock some twelve years before the last war, but withdrew at the expiration of about two years, and the building has not been used since as a storeroom. This has been the extent of the mercantile pursuit in Copley Center, though there have been one or two country stores in the western part of the township. The tavern building has been used as such the greater portion of the time since it was built and opened by Andrew Baldwin. Since then. the follow ing and others have kept public house in the village : Noah Robinson, Hiram Randall. Mr Tan Event. Lewis Norton and Daniel Taylor. The building was used a number of years by Oviatt & Stearns as a cheese dryhouse. It is now occupied by Dennis Cole. an experienced landlord, whose personal appearance in every way resembles that of his fellowcountryman. the patron saint of boys (not girls). Santa Claus. or Knecht Clubes. It is also true that

“The stump of a pipe he holds tight in his teeth

And the smoke it encircles his head like a wreath.

He has a broad face and a little round body

That shakes %hen he laughs like a howl full toddy."

Various industries have flourished in the village. Isaac Moneysmith. as early as 1833. erected a suitable building. and began doing cabinet work. Ile employed three or four workmen, and made bedsteads. tables. bureau. chairs, etc.. and continued until about 1837. when Douglass Storr became proprietor. This man continued the business perhaps ten years. or possibly longer, manufacturing coffins and running a hearse a portion of the time. The building was finally burned down. Dow Bennett was engaged in cabinet business for a short time. Soon after the last war. Coon

Son started a cheese factory. onehalf mile west of the Center. and have continued doing a good business since. The White Brothers opened a wagonshop in about the year 1832. They employed some four workmen, and continued the occupation ten years, when they sold to W. P. Craig. who. at the end of three or four years. transferred the property to William Whitehill. in whose ownership it burned down. It was rebuilt by Henry Leiby about eight years ago Edward Voluntine now owns the shop. and is doing a fair business. The public green or square at the Center was the joint gift of four men. whose land in early years cornered at the crossroads. These four men were Heman Oviatt, Levitt Wicks. Simon F. Starr and Jonathan Starr, who gave the land in about the year 1832. It is said that Mr. Oviatt. about the same time, laid out a number of lots on the northwest corner, which were platted and properly recorded at the county seat. Additions have since been made to the original lots, and

COPLEY TOWNSHIP - 647

possibly some of these additions have been recorded. A Grange lodge was organized in the village a few years ago. Dr. Alpheus Babcock, who was among the earliest settlers, began practicing his profession soon after his arrival, and continued some ten years. Dr. Elijah Canfield practiced in the township for thirty years, over a large section of country. Dr. Samuel Austin was in for a few years. Dr. Jackson Chapman began about 1835, and continued twelve or fifteen years. Dr. Byron Chapman was the township physician about ; thirtyfive years ago. The township, since its creation, has had a resident physician the greater portion of the time, several of whom secured a wide practice and the confidence of their fellowcitizens.

Opinion is divided in the township as to where the first school was taught, and where and when the first house was built. The old log schoolhouse at the Center. as before mentioned, was erected in 1819, and the first term therein was taught the following winter by Jonathan Starr. Other reports are to the effect that while Starr might have taught the first school in the township, he was not the first teacher in the old house at the Center. this honor being accorded to John Codding. Esq. They were both very early teachers, and it may be that the first school was taught in the old log schoolhouse in the northwest corner of the township, instead of in the schoolhouse at the Center, as it is known that the Hawkins Schoolhouse was built very early, some accounts fixing the date before that when the log house was built at the Center. The subsequent township historian will be allowed the honor and pleasure of unraveling the mystery. The old house at the Center was used for school and many other purposes some ten or twelve years. when a frame building was erected on the square to take its place, after which it was abandoned. The frame building was used as a schoolhouse until the erection of the brick building in about 1858, and possibly several terms were taught there after the erection of the brick. It is said that two or three years before the last war was begun, two or three schools were in session in the village at the same time. The frame building is now used as a shop, and the brick was disused in 1872, when the present house was devoted to school purposes. This building is located in thesouthern part of the village, and since it has been used the village has had an excellent school. In truth, no other village in the county of the same size, except, perhaps, Peninsula. in Boston Township, has had so much to do with school ventures and enterprises as Copley Center. A short time before the last war, the villagers became dissatisfied with the appliances made of the township school fund. They saw that, while the village had no better schools than those in surrounding districts, the Center District was paying a much greater amount of school tax than any of the others. New schoolhouses in neighboring districts were erected, and the villagers were burdened with a tax which seemed out of proportion, and which they paid only under remonstrance. The subject was freely discussed, and it was at last resolved to secure the incorporation of the Center School District. which was accordingly done. This procedure freed them from any school tax, save that necessary for the maintenance of their own school. The interest in school affairs had arisen to highwater mark, and while at the flood the tide was turned in the proper direction, and it may be said that, since the incorporation of the district for school purposes. the interest in educational progress has been strong and steady. In about 1858. the building now used as a town hall, which had been built at an early day for a storehouse. was purchased for $1,000, by ten men. each of whom furnished $100. These men were M. D. Pratt, Cyrus Wicks, J. H. Lyon, John C. Stearns, Peter Wicks, James Hammond, Aaron Oviatt, Lorenzo Chamberlain. Delos Bosworth and Alanson Foster. They fitted up the building for a schoolhouse, and employed Rev. John Ensell, a capable instructor and a scholarly gentleman, to take charge of the school, which was then opened. A goodly number of scholars was enrolled, and a moderate tuition paid, and It seemed as it' the school was destined to exert a wide and beneficial influence. But the war came on with its damaging influence. other discouraging events arose, and the school ended some five years after it began. The school in the northwest corner has always been a good one. It is a union district. comprising parts of Copley. Bath, Granger and Sharon. It was an early sealed neighborhood. and on account of the interest which centered there. became well known and largely attended. One

648 - HISTORY OF SUMMIT COUNTY.

or more new houses have taken the place of the old log one. In other neighborhoods than the northwest corner and the Center, schools were not taught until about 1828, and in some districts even later than that. It was about that period, also, that the township was first laid out into school districts.

Two religious societies were organized in the township, but the date when this occurred can not be given, at least with certainty. The Methodists and Congregationalists started up about the same time, and the date is not far from 1830. Among the leading Methodists were Joseph and Henry White, Parker Tyler, Alpheus Northrup and others. In the winter of 1836–37, this society had the greatest revival probably ever in the township. The sweeping statement is made, " Why, everybody joined church." Two ministers of State reputation—Dr. Cone and Elder Poe—had charge of the meetings, and under their experienced and able guidance and management, scores were converted and the churches strengthened by large additions to the membership. Alpheus Northrup was a local minister, about whom a curious incident is related by M. D. Pratt. Pratt was converted—at least, he joined the Methodist Church—and one day Northrup came to him and wanted to borrow one of his horses, of which he owned several, some of them being idle. The request was readily granted, and the local man of God rode the animal away. After two or three weeks had elapsed, several of the neighbors' boys, at different times, spoke to Mr. Pratt, saying that the horse which had been borrowed was getting poor and did not appear to be well taken care of, upon which the owner conferred with the minister about the matter, the latter confessing that the animal was getting thin, and saying that he would get some grain and see that better care was taken in the future. A few weeks later, the minister called on Mr. Pratt, saying that the horse was dead, and expressing his desire to pay for the damage done. He also insisted that, under existing circumstances, the price should be cut down at least half. Mr. Pratt, glad to get anything for the animal from the minister, who was in extremely indigent circumstances, agreed to the proposal, and the price was fixed at $25. Northrup gave his note for the amount, and took his departure A few days later, Pratt was astonished to see the minister riding the animal which was re ported to have died, and he perceived that he had been outflanked. He kept still, however hoping to realize on the note ; but time passe( away, the day of maturity came around, but nothing was paid, and thus the matter rests to. day. It is said that Mr. Northrup's mind was injured in some way, and that he often did peculiar things—things which otherwise would reflect seriously on his honest intentions. Mr, Pratt tells the tale with some bitterness, which, under the peculiar circumstances of the case, may be permitted. The Congregational society grew in strength and grace, and among its early members were the following : Lawrence Moore, Heman Oviatt. Joseph and Samuel Hawkins and Andrew Baldwin. In the year 1844, the two societies united means and erected the church at the Center. Here they have continued to assemble alternately until the present. Each society has had its years of adversity and prosperity, sometimes rejoicing in the strength of a large membership and an abundance of funds, at other times reduced in numbers, funds depleted, and a noticeable lack of religious zeal. That the societies have done a great deal to improve the morals of the community and control the wayward tendency of youth, is apparent to all who will soberly think of the subject. However skeptical a man may be, though his opinions may be those of Diabolus himself; he cannot successfully deny the beneficent effect of good morals on society. Re may denounce the church and traduce its servants, yet he cannot truthfully deny that it creates a worldwide benefit to the human race. A Methodist Church was built at quite an early day on the northern line of the township, the members living both in Copley and Bath. The The building is now used as a dwelling in the village of Ellis' Corners, if the historian has been correctly informed. Citizens in the western part of Copley attend church in Medina County, –' ile many of those on the opposite side attend the Akron churches when the weather is fair.