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HISTORY OF
MADISON COUNTY
INDIANA:
A Narrative Account of Its Historical Progress,
Its People and Its Principal Interests
Compiled Under the Editorial Supervision of
JOHN L. FORKNER
VOLUME
ILLUSTRATED
THE LEWIS PUBLISHING COMPANY
CHICAGO AND NEW YORK
I914
A Reproduction by UNIGRAPHIC, INC.
4400 Jackson Avenue, Evansville, Indiana 47715
Nineteen Hundred Seventy
1525094
PREFACE
111 presenting tliis history to tlie people of Madison county, the
editor and publishers do not claim that it is to till the proverbial "long
felt want." They believe, however, that there is always room for a
good county history, and no effort has been spared to make this work
both as authentic and as comprehensive as. possible.
To write of the past ; to preserve the historic records of by-gone
generations; to cull the good and true of any period of time; to render
green again the memories and experiences of former days ; to record the
achievements and even the errors of our ancestors, is but to perform a
common duty to a common humanity.
The division of the subject matter into topics and the arrangement
of chapters is, we believe, the best that could lie made, and will prove
of great convenience to the reader. The chapter on the Bench and Bar
was written by Hon. Frank P. Foster, mayor of Anderson, who is well
qualified for the task by reason of his long connection with the bar of
^Madison county. The chapter on the Medical Profession was largely
prepared by Dr. Jonas Stewart, one of the oldest practicing physicians
of Anderson, and for several years secretary of the Madison County
Medical Society. J. A. Van Osdol. general attorney of the Indiana
Union Traction Company; Dr. L. E. Alexander, of Pendleton; J. E.
Hall and Dr. F. 8. Keller, of Alexandria: A. D. Moffett, John Nearom
and J. E. Carpenter, of Elvvood; also rendered valuable assistance in
the collection of data regarding their respective cities and the insti-
tutions with which they are connected.
The works consulted in the preparation of this history include the
following : Official publications — Reports of the United States Bureau
of Ethnology; United States Census reports; Reports of the Commis-
sioner of Indian Affairs; Reports of the United States Department of
Agriculture; Reports of the Indiana State Geologist, the Bureau of
Statistics and the Bureau of Inspection; Adjutant-General's reports;
Bulletins of the Railroad Commission ; Session Laws of Indiana, and
the records in the various county offices. Miscellaneous publications —
Harden's History of Madison County (1874); Kingman's History of
Madison County (1880) ; Historical Sketelies and Reminiscences of Jlad-
ison County (1897), by John L. Forkner and Byron H. Dyson; Har-
desty's History of Anderson; Dillon's History of Indiana; O. H. Smith's
iv PREFACE
Early Reminiscences of Indiana ; Reports of the Grand Lodges of
various fraternal organizations ; city directories and the files of the
Madison county papers.
The editor and his assistants desire to express their thanks and
obligations to ^liss Kate Chipman. librarian of the Anderson public
librar3% and her assistants; jMiss Henriette L. Scranton. Miss Zada Carr
and Miss Margaret Wade, public librarians in Ehvood, Alexandria and
Pendleton, respectively, and to the various county officers and their dep-
uties for their uniform courtesies and assistance in the collection of
information.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER I
PHYSICAL FEATURES-, GEOLOGY, ETC.
Location, Boundaries and Area of the County — Principal Water-
Courses — General Character of the Surface — Underlying Rocks
OP the Upper Silurian and Devonian Periods — Pendleton Sand-
Stone — Niagara Limestone — Quarries — The Glacial Drift — The-
ory OF Glaciers — Moraines — Gravel Beds — Natural Gas — Petro-
leum— The Alex.\ndria Oil Field — The Primitive Forests —
Mineral Spring 1
CHAPTER II
ABORIGINAL INHABITANTS
The Mound Builders — Theories Concerning Them — Districts in the
United States — Their Distinguishing Characteristics — Mounds in
Madison County — Distribution op Indian Tribes v^^hen America
First Discovered — Indiana Tribes — The Delawares — Their His-
tory and Tradition — A Delaware Prophet Inspires Pontiac —
Noted Delaware Chieftains — A Legend 11
CHAPTER III
THE PERIOD OF PREPARATION
Early Explorations in America — Conflicting Claims op England,
France and Spain — -French Posts in the Interior — French and
Indian War — Pontiac 's Conspiracy — English in Possession op
Indiana — The Revolution — George Rogers Clark's Conquest op
the Northwest — The Northwest Territory — Campaigns of St.
Clair and Wayne — Treaty op Greenville — Indiana Territory Or-
ganized— Indian Treaties — Tenskwataw^v and Tecumseh — Battle
OF Tippecanoe — War of 1812 — Burning op the Delaware Villages
on the White Rr'er — Indiana Admitted Into the Union — Treaty
of St. ]\rARY's — Seat op Government 24
vi CONTENTS
CHAPTER IV
SETTLEMENT AND ORGANIZATION
First Settlers in Madison County — Sketches op Prominent Pio-
neers— Frontier Life and Customs — The Log Cabin — Furniture
— "Swapping Work"- — Log Rollings — Harvesting — Homespun
Clothing — Madison County Organized — Provisions op the Or-
ganic Act — County Seat Difficulties — Anderson Finally'
Selected — Public Buildings — The Three Courthouses — Laying
the Corner-stone op the Present Courthouse — The Four Jails^
Changes in the Original Boundaries 37
CHAPTER V
TOWNSHIP HISTORY
List of Civil Townships in the County — Early Records — Adams —
Anderson — Boone — Duck Creek — Fall Creek — Green — Pioneers
OP Each — Early Schools and Industries — Churches — Towns and
Villages — Mention op Prominent Citizens — Interesting Inci-
dents 57
CHAPTER VI
TOWNSHIP HISTORY, Continued
Jackson — Lafayette — • Monroe — Pipe Creek — Richland — Stony
Creek — Union — Van Buren — Settlement and Organization of
Each — Early Schools and Churches — Mention of Prominent
Pioneers — Primitive Industries and Roads — Extinct Towns and
Villages, Etc 75
CHAPTER VII
THE CITY OF ANDERSON
Location — First Known as Andersontown — First Incorporation —
Change of Name — Second Incorporation — Becomes a City — First
City Officials — Public Utilities — Water Works — Electric
Lighting Plant — Fire Department — Police Department — Sewer-
age System — Street Railway — The "Mule Motor" — Electric
Lines — Illuminating Gas — Postoffice — Some Historic Hotels —
First Newspaper — A Political Drug Store — Board of Trade —
First City Directory — Sketches of the Mayors — Statistics and
Comment 97
CONTENTS vii
CHAPTER VIII
CITIES AND TOWNS
Extinct Towns and Villages — Incorporated Towns — Elwood —
Alexandria — Pendleton — Summitville — Frankton — Lapel
— Chesterfield — Markleville — Ingalls — Orestes — Smaller
Villages — Alliance — Emporia — Ovid — Leisure — Huntsville
— Halford — Perkinsville — Florida— Lin wood — Fishersburg — List
OF I'ostoffices in- thk Cointy — Rural Routes ■ 115
CHAPTER IX
FINANCE AND INDUSTRY
Public Finances — Outstanding Debt: — Gravel Road Bonds — Banks
AND Trust Companies — Bold Bank Robbery — Anderson Loan
Association — Early Manufacturing Establishments^Natural
Gas Era — New Factories Located — Manufacturing Statistics of
Cities and Towns — "Made in Anderson" Exhibit — Agricultural
Conditions and Statistics — The Farmer Still King 136
CHAPTER X
INTERNAL IMPROVEilENTS
Old Trails — First Highways — State Roads — Turnpike Companies
AND Toll Roads — The Era of Canals — Land Grants — State Legis-
lation for Internal Improvements — Act of 1836 — Indiana Cen-
tral Canal — Its Collapse — The Hydraulic Project — Railroads —
Early Ideas Regarding Them — The Big Four — First Train to
Anderson — The Pan Handle — Cincinnati, Wabash & jNIichigan —
Lake Erie & Western — The Central Indiana — Ditches — Union
Traction Company 161
CHAPTER XI
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
County Seminary — Public Schools of Anderson — Schools of Other
Cities and Towns — Value of School Property — Statistics — ■
County Superintendents — First Graded School — Franklin's
Private School — Anderson Normal University — Business Col-
lege— Parochial Schools — The Press — Struggles of the Early
Newspaper — The First Daily — Hardesty's Window Shutter
Campaign — Present Day Newspapers — Public Libraries — School
Libraries 177
viii CONTEXTS
CHAPTER XII
BENCH AND BAR
First Seat of Justice — Early Courts and Pioneer Judges — Char-
acter OF THE Early Lawyers — Sketches of Judges and Promi-
nent Attorneys — The Superior Court — Incidents in Connec-
tion AViTii Legal Practice 193
CHAPTER XIII
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION
The Pioneer Doctor — His General Character and JIethod of
TrE:\.ting Disease — His Standing in the Community— Balzac 's
Tribute to the Country Doctor — ^Sketches of Early JIadisox
County Physicians — Medical Societies — Their History — Physi-
cians IX THE Army — Pension Examiners — List of Registered
PlIYl^ICIAXS 218
CHAPTER XIV
CHURCH HISTORY
Moravian ^Missions — Monument — The Methodists — The Baptists —
Friends or Quakers — United Brethren — Roman Catholics — •
Chkistians or Disciples — New Light Christians — The Lutherans
—The Universalists — Protestant Episcopal Church — Church
OF God — Congregationalists — Spiritualists — Their Camp Grounds
at Chesterfield — List of Churches in the Cities 228
CHAPTER XV
CHARITIES AND CEISIETERIES
Early Methods of Caring for the Poor — ^Madison County's First
Poorhouse — Later Poorhouses — The County Infirmary — Or-
phans' Home — Associated Charities — St. John's Hospital —
Sketch of its Founder — Country Graveyards by Townships —
GROVEL-iND Cemetery at Pendleton — Odd Fellows' Cemetery
AT Alexandria — Park View — Elwood Cemetery — Grave Rob-
bery— Anderson Cemeteries — ]Maplewood Association 248
CONTENTS ix
CHAPTER XVI
SOCIETIES AND FRATERNITIES
AGRICULTrEAL SOCIETIES— F AIR. ASSOCIATIOXS AXD FaIRS AXDEKSON"
Ltcecm — Old Settlees' As£<xiatiox — The Patkoxs of Husbaxdry
— Horse Thief DETECTI^^; Ass<xtatiox — The Mascxic Frateexttt
IXDEPEXDEXT OeDEE OF <JDD FeLLOWS ^KXIGHTS OF PtTHIA= IM-
PROVED Order of Red JIex — <jRaxd Army of the Replbuc — A Liv-
ixG Flag — Bexe%"olext axd Protective Order of Elks — Lotai.
Order of ;Mo<:>se — iliscELLvxEors Lodges ax"d S<:'Cietie£ — Trades
Vxioxs — Daughter> . 'F the Americax Re\ OLunox 261
CHAPTER Sr^'II
MILITARY HISTORY
JIadis<;>x CorxTY ix the W.vr With !Me3io3 — The CmL "War — Loyal
Spirit of the Citizexs — Meetixg at tee CorRTHorsE — The First
CoMPAXY From ^Iadisox Couxty — Rc"Sters of the Various Com-
PAXiEs — Hetoric-vl Sketches of the Regimexts ix Which They
Ser\'Ed— Cavalry axd Artillery Orgaxtzatioxs — Spaxtsh-Ameri-
CAX War — Aftm>.^v Couxty Represexted ix Two Regimexts. . .2S2
CHAPTER XVIII
CRIMES AND CASUALTIES
Murder of the Ixdiaxs is' 1S24 — The Abbott Mysteby-
Tharp axd Escape of Cox — Murder of Daxiel Ho??is by 3Iiltox
White — The Dale-Traster Affair — A^lYSTEBiors Mubdeh of Albert
Mawsox — Disappearaxce of Susax Nelsox — Shootixg of Bexe-
FiEL BY Dams — Charles Kyxett Shot by the City Marshal — Knx-
iXG of McT.f.m \xd StAxts — McCuLLOUGH Shot by Wetsh — Kill-
rxG of Albert Hawkixs — Historic Fires rx Ajxders-ox. Elwood,
Alexaxdria. Fraxktox axd SuMMmiiiE — ^Some Great Storms —
Fl.>ii>s of 1>47. 1S75. 1SS4. 19«>4 and 1913 312
CHAPTER XIX
MISCELLANEOUS HISTORY
Sketches of a Few Typical Pioxeek; — Levi Brewer — ^Mzx-nox of
Promixext CmzExs — -James Wi;rrcoMB Rilet — Samuel Richards
— The Fexiax Raid — Express Robbery axd the Faujbiuty of
CmcrMSTAXTiu. Evidexce — ^Mysterious Disappearaxce of a Ped-
dler Recalled — Receptiox to Compaxy L — Chroxology of the
County — Cexsis — List <>f Couxty Officers -i^i5
INDEX
Abbott Cabin (view), 313
Abbott mystery, 313
Abbott, William L., 707
Aboriginal inhabitants, 11
Act to secure relocation of county seat,
47
Adams, Abraham, 58
Ailams Township, location, 57; named for
Abraham Adams, 58; early settlers, 58;
first schoolhouse, 59 ; schools, 59 ;
churches, 59; principal villages, 60
Agricultural societies, 261
Agricultural statistics, 159
Alexander, John E., 664
Alexander, Lot E., 476
' ' Alexandria Bee, ' ' 120
Alexandria View (view), 121
Alexandria, mention, 82; location, 119;
third city of the county in population,
119; first hotel in, 120; newspapers,
120; railroads, 120; first natural gas
well, 120; disastrous fire, 121; city gov-
ernment 1913, 121; electric light, 122;
fire department, 122; municipal build-
ings, 122; water works, 122; popula-
tion, 123; schools 179 *
Alexandria Business Men's Association,
123
Alexandria Carnegie Library, 122
Alexandria Electric Lighting Company,
122
Alexandria Library Association, 190
Alexandria National Bank, 142
Allman, Charles H., 571
Alliance, 132
Ancient Order of Foresters, 280
Ancient Order of Hibernians, 281
Anderson, Archie C, 435
Anderson, Captain, 22
Anderson, Chester H., 634
Anderson, Chief, 228
Anderson, mention, 61; location, 97; first
known as Andersontown, 97; incorpora-
tion, 98; change of name, 98; becomes
a city, 98; first election for city ofK-
cials, 99; city officials in 1913, 99; elec-
tric light and water works, 99; public
utilities, 99: water works, 99; first
electric lighting plant, 100; present
electric lighting plant, 101; fire de-
partment, 102; police department, 103;
sewage system, 104; street railway sys-
tem, 104; electric lines, 106; illuminat-
ing gas, 107; postoffice, 107; hotels,
108; first newspaper in, 110; "political
drug store," 110; board of trade, 110;
first city directory of. 111; mayors,
111; tax assessment for 1913, 114;
seventh city in Indiana in population,
114; schools, 177
Andersontown, 47
Anderson Banking Company, 139
Anderson High School (view), 178
Anderson Postoffice (view), 108
Anderson Public Library (view), 188
Anilerson Business College, 182
Anderson Cemetery Association, 258
Anderson Knife and Bar Company, 147
Anderson Loan Association, 140
Anderson Lyceum, 263
Anilerson Normal University, 181
Anderson Reading Room and Library
Association, 187
Anderson Trust Company, 139
Anderson Township location, 60; early
settlers, 61; schools, 61; Anderson,
only town in, 61
American Steel and Wire Comjiany, 147
Arcade File Works, 148
Area of the county, 1
Annington, Charles L., 498
Armstrong, Paul, 592
Artillery service, 306
Associated charities, 251
Attorneys who have practiced at the
iladison Co\inty bar, 210
Auditors, 357
Bagot, Charles K., 197
Baker, George W., 614
Ball, Blaine H., 748
Ball, Robert E., 650
Banking institutions, 13i
Bank robbery, 138
Baptists, 234.
Battle of Tippecanoe, 34
Barber, Fred T., 633
Peall, Curran ("Jack"), 446
Beck, Henry V., 719
Beck, .Mary E., 337
INDEX
Beebe, George T., 388
Beeson, Martin M., 563
Behymer, Andrew J., 698
Behynier, Frank, 694
Bench ami bar, 193
Benefiel-Davis affair, 318
Benefiel, Joel B., 363
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks,
278
Berg, Andrew, 600
Berry, John, 39
Bevilhimer, Spencer C, 481
Bickford, George W., 459
Biddle, Charles \V., 441
Biegel, Balthasar, 564
Big Four Railway, 169
Big Mound at iloiinds Park (view), li
Bireley, William H., 672
Boland, Daniel L., 417
Boone Township, location, 62 ; organiza-
tion, 62; first white man, 62; other
pioneers, 63 ; last wild deer killed in,
6.4; schools, 64; churches, 64
Boone Township Hay (view), 63
Bordwell, Dr. Lewis, 219
Boundaries, 1 ; change in, 56
Bradley, Joseph E., 572
Bradley, Patrick S., 495
Brady, Arthur W., 478
Brenaman, James F., 733
Brewer, Levi (])ort.), 339
Broadbent, Oliver, 637
Broadbent, Sarah I., 637
Bronnenberg, Frederick, 15, 37, 93
Bronnenberg, Henry, 338, 703
Bronnenberg, Isaac, 667
Bronnenberg, Eansom, 514
Bronnenberg, Sheridan, 749
Bronnenberg, Weems, 448
Bronnenberg, William B., 449
Brumbaugh, Austin, 728
Brunt, Kichard H., 576
Brown, George W., 573
Brown, Glendeu, 689
Brown, Henry C, 393
Brown, Levi P., 571
Brown, William L., 112
Buckeye Manufacturing Company, 148
"Bulletin," 184
Burdett, Oliver H., 779
Burke, Newton, 549
Burr, Lafe J., 519
Busby, Grattan A., 751
Busby, Jonathan A., 432
Byrum, Enoch E., 471
Cain, Joseph R., 515
Cain, Winifred, 515
Campbell, Bartlett H., 507
Campbell, Wallace B., 478
Camels of the World, 281
Canada.y, Harrison, 787
Canadav, Joseph R., 625
Canaday, Ward K., 624
Canals, 165
Caring for soldiers families, 307
Carlton, David R., 452
('arlton, James W., 628
Carnegie libraries, 187
Carr, I. W., 619
Cartwright, William E., 604
Catholic Benevolent Legion, 281
Catholic Knights of America, 280
Catholic Order of Foresters, 281
Catholics, 240
Cemeteries, 252
Census statistics, 355
Chambers, Joseph, 545
Chambers, Seneca, 445
Charities, 248
Charles, Etta, 691
Chesterfield, mention, 94; laid out, 129;
growth of, 130; incorporation, 130;
Chief Anderson, 228
Childera, Philip A., 660
Children's Home Association, 250
Chipman, Marcellus, 196
Christians or Disciples, 241
Chronology of the county, 345
Church history, 228
Church of God, 152, 246
Church organizations, Alexandria, 247
Church organizations, Elwood, 247
Church organizations in Anderson, 247
Cincinnati & Chicago Air Line, 169
Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Railroad,
171
Cities and towns, 115
Citizens' Bank, 137
Citizens' State Bank, 141
City Building, Elwood (view), 116
Citv of Anderson, 97
Civil War, 283
Clark, General George Rogers, 26
Clark, Ralph B., 554
Clark, Robert H., 646
Clark 's conquest of the Northwest, 27
Clauser, Joseph L., 724
Clerks, 357
Clymer, Willie E., 745
Cochran, Henry, 65
Coddington, William A., 674
Commercial Bank and Trust Company,
142
Conflicting claims of the English and
French, 25
Congregationalists, 246
Conner, John, 726
Conrad, Ernest M., 376
Cook, A. AV., 400
Cook, Ben.iamin H., 456
Corbet, CM., 740
Coroners, 338
Cory, Wilson, 539
INDEX
Cotterman, Clinton M.. 471
County, area of, 1
County assessors, SoS
County Commissioners, 3,38
County organizeil. 45
County seat locati'd, 4(i
County Seminary, 177
Court-houses, 48
Courts, 193
Cox, E. T., State Geologist. 14
Cox, Lewis C, 734
Coy Lorana Wise, 773
Cragen, John B., 440
Craven, Hervey, 195
Creeks, 1
Crimes and casualties, 312
Crittenberger, Dale J., 651
Croan, William il., 714
Cromer, Martin L., 425
Cunningham, William P., 722
Custer, O. B., 392
Dale-Traster affair, 316
Daniel Hoppis, murder of, 315
Dau_i liters of Libeity, 281
Daughters of the American Revolution.
281
Davis, Alvin H., 662
Davis, Arthur, 432
Davis, Doctor B., 579
Davis, Edgar E., 729
Davis, Jolm E., 466
Davis, L^roy, 644
Dawson, Charles W., 608
Day, Thomas E., 436
Dean, Purl, 585
Decker, Philip G., 679
Dehority, llharles C, 69C
Dellority, Frank E., 708
Dehority, Joseph A., 700
Dehority, William A., 117
Delaware, 17
Dick, Charles G.. 755
Discoverv of natuvil gas, 116
"Dismal," 89
Ditches, 174
Donnelly, James il., 606
Downs, John P., 746
Doty, Thomas J., 387
Douglas, Otho W., 429
Douglass. Frederick, 70
Doxey, Charles T., 341
Doxey Opera House, 323
Drach, Henry. 367
Draper, Joseph, 599
Duck Creek Township organization of,
65 ; location, 65 ; first settler, 65 ; early
industries, 66; schools, 66; churches,
67; last entry of land in county, 67.
Dunham, Wesley, 112
Dunlap, Ivan C., 486
Dunlap, Morey M., 113
Durbin. Winfield T., 341
Dye. Augustus T.. 407
Dyson, Byron H., 112, (i4S
Earliest manufacturing establishments,
144
Early courts and pioneer fudges, 193
Early Dwelling in I'niou Townshij). view
92
Early explorations iji America, 24
Early method.s of caiing for the poor,
248
Early jdiysicians. 210
Electric railways, 175
Educational development, 177
Eighth Cavalry, 305
Eighth Infantry, 284
Eighty-ninth Infantry, 298
Eleventh Infantry, 287
Elks, 278
"Elk's Home. Anderson (view), 279
Elliott, Joseph H., 469
Ellis. Amlrew, 418
Ellison, Alfred, 197
Elwood, mention, 85; discovery of natural
gas, 116; incorporated, 116; first elect-
ric ears in. 117; first mayor, 117; water
works, 117; city government in 1913,
118; city hall,' 118; fire department,
118; new postoffice, 118; police depart-
ment, 118; clubs, 119; statistics of,
119; schools, 179
Ehvood Cemetery Association, 256
Elwood Driving Park and Fair Associa-
tion. 263
Elwood Public Library (view), 190
Elwood State Bank, 141
Elwood Trust Company, 142
Emporia, 132
English and French claims, 25
Episcopalians, 245
Equitable Aid Union, 281
Eshelman, David, 406
Eshelmaun, Ross, 692
Etchison, R. F., 609
Etchison, William, 617
Evans, Will G., 491
Exchange Bank, 138
Express robbery, 343
Extinct towns and villages, 115
Fairs, 262
Fall creek, 1
Fall Creek township, location 67; first
township settled by white men, 68; early
settlers, 68 ; first land entries, 69 ; in-
dustries, 70; churches, 70; Frederick
Douglass tries to address citizens, 70;
schools, 72 ; towns, 72
Falls at Pendleton (view), 68
Farlow, J. M., 616
Farmer, Edgar W., 548
XIV
INDEX
Farmers Trust Cnnipaiiv, 141
Faust, \V. A., 710
Federate.l Catholic Chilis, 2S1
Fenelon, Charles E., 701
Fesler, B. F., Ofili
Finance and imhistry, 13fi
Fires. :VI'2
Fishersburg, 91
Fifth Cavalry, ."104
First company from iladison (oiiiity, 284
First cdiirt house in the connty, ll'4
First daily in Anderson, 1S4
First fair in the connty. 2<i1
First Gas Well, Anderson (view), ]4(i
First gas well sunk in connty, 7
First graded school in the connty, ISl
First highways, 161
First medical society, 224
First National Bank of Anderson, 137
First National Bank of Elwood, 141
]'''irst natural gas well in Madison conntv,
120, 154 ■
First newspaper, 182
First parochial school, 182
First physician in county, 219
First seat of .iustiee, 193
First settlers in Madison county, 37
First successful attempt to develop oil
fields, 8
First Trolley Car (view), 106
Fishersburg, 135
Flanagan, Barney, 711
Floods, 331
^-^ood Scene (view), 333
Florida, 80, 134
Fogerty, Michael J., 762
Ford, Eugene L., 521
Forkner, James M., 527
Forkner, John L., 113, 510
Fornshell, Elmer E., 503
Fornshell, Fred B., 502
Forty-seventh Infantry, 295
Foster, Frank P., 113, 193, 419
Fountain William, 593
Fowler, James A.. 779
1^-ankton, location, 127; incorporated,
128;principals industries, 128; schools,
180
Fraternal Order of Eagles, 280
Free, LeBoy, 730
Free, Wade H., 517
French and Indian war, 25
Friends or Quakers, 238
Fuller, Tillman, 772
Fuller, W. H., 717
Game plentiful, 43
Oarr, Jesse D., 542
Garretson, William M., 735
Gavin, Martin, 617
General character of surface, 3
Geology, 3
German Baptists or Dunkards, 237
Oibault, Father, 26
(iilison. John J., 752
(iivens, John L., 437
(loehler, Daniel, 736
(ioodykoontz, >rartin L., 389
Corden. Welden B., 590
"(iospel Trumpet," 152
(iospel Trumpet I ome, 152
(iospel Trumpet Publishing Plant (View),
153
Cossett, William H., 595 •
(hand Armv of the Republic, 275
Gravel Road l>onds, 136
Great flood of 1913, .333
(ireathouse, Frank il., 501
Great storms, 329
Green Township, location, 72; first set-
tlers, 73; industries, 74; schools, 74;
towns. 74
(ireenville treaty, 30
Grider, ,Tohn L., 676
Griffin, James W., 482
Groendyke, Thomas, 737
Guy, Elmer A., 506
Haines, John, 786
Halboth, Ijouis E., 737
Ifalford, 134
Hall, Jesse E.. 668
Hancock, Garland, 474
Hancock, John L., 639
Hancock, William W., 663
Handy, Edward C, 410
Harbit, Francis M., 705
Hardie, Henry P., 113, 385
Harold, Alva N., 732
Hardy, Thomas M., 457
Hartley, Eugene B., 782
Hartman, Jacob, 658
Harrison, General William Henry, 30
Harvesting Scene Near Lapel (view), 90
Hartzell, George, 638
Hawkes, Marshall A., 709
Hawkins, Albert, killing of, 320
Hays, John D., 721
Hazlett, James, 112
Heffner, Lewis, 484
Henderson, Charles A., 364
Hennings, Joseph E., 366
Henry, Charles L., 342
"Herald," 184
Herring, Charles H., 496
Hickey, John, 251
High School at Alexandria (view), 179
Hill, Forrest J., 368
Himelick, Joseph, 670
Hinderer, John G., 581
Hinshaw, (.irlando D., 488
Historic fires, 322
Hockett, George H., 783
Hoel, Elmer E., 718
IXDijX
Hooven, Clement \V., 4'23
Hoover, Rufiis A., 593
Hopppnrath, William H., 704
Horse Thief Detective Association, 265
Howard, Homer E., 596
Huffman, Owen, 434
Hugliel. Klmer E.. (iS7
Hughel, Herman C, 7S4
Hull. .Tames C. 574
Hundlev. James il., 560
Hunt, i.ee F., 747
Hunt, Jfason V., 420
HuntsviUe. 72. 133
Hupp, George W., 516
Hurst, Alfred D., 641
Improved Order of Red Men, 273
Incorporated towns, 115
I. 0. 0. F. Building (view), 270
Independent Social Club, 191
Indiana admitted to Union, 35
Indianapolis & Bellefontaine Railroad
Company, 168
Indiana Spiritualist Association, 130
Indian Chiefs, 20
Indians, 16
Indians and Pioneers (view), 32
Ingalls, 74
Ingalls Land Company, 131
Ingalls, incorporation of, 131
Ingalls industries. 131
Internal improvements, 161, 166
Interior Pioneer Cabin (view), 44
Isanogel, "Walter, 443
Jackson Township, location, 75 ; early
settlers, 75; industries, 77; schools.
78 ; churches, 78 ; towns, 78
Jacobs, Cassius C, 583
Jails, 54
.Tesuit missionaries, 24
Johnson, Daniel M., 559
Johnson, John C, 549
Johnson, Lewis, 378'
Jones, Arthur H., 690
Jones, Dee R.. 681
.Tones, Homer B., 601
.Tones, Horace E., 422
Jones, Joel M., 577
Jones, John C, 111
.Tones, .Tohn "W., 396
.Tones, Thomas M.. 758
Judd, George W., 595
Judges, 194
Junior Order American Mechanics, 281
Kaufman, Andrew F., 541
Kelelamand, 21
Kellv, Isaac S., 682
Keltner, Sanford M., 416
Kemp, Henry M.. 742
Kidwell, Elbert E., 652
Kikthawenund, 22, 228
Killbuck, Captain, 21
Killing of Albert Hawkins, 3^0
Killing of Susan Nelson, 317 ,
King, Thomas J., 628
King. Willard, 628
Kinnard. Lewis D., 393
Kinnard, William R.. 394
Kirk, George W., 685
Kittinger, William A., 402
Klunipp. .Tohn. Sr., 753
Knight, Frank, 557
Knights and Ladies of Columbia, 281
Knights and Ladies of Honor, 281
Knights of Columbus, 280
Knights of Honor, 281
Knights of Pythias, 272
Knights of the Golden Eagle, 281
Knights of the Maccabees, 280
Knopp, Washington B., 636
Koons, George W'., 497
Koons. .John H., 556
Kynett, Charles, shooting of, 319
Labor Organizations, 281
LaPayette Township, location, 78; early
settlers, 78; organiiation, 79; indus-
tries, 80; schools, 80; churches, 80;
towns, 80
Lail, John H., 485
Lambert. John W., 382
Lamey, .John M., 525
Lantz, Frederick, 532
Lapel, mention, 91; location, 128; first
settler in, 128; incident of 1886, 129;
incorporated, 128; industries, 128;
schools, 180
I^rmore, .Tames iL, 415
Last toll road, 164
Ijawyers, 198
Laying of corner stone of present court-
house, 53
Leisure, 133
Lewark, John W., 399
Lee, James 0., 614
Libraries, 187
Lilly, George, 542
Linwood, 135
List of civil townships in the county, 57
Living Flag (view), 277
Loan Building (view), 140
locating the county seat, 46
Loyal Order of Moose, 279
Lukens, Edwin, 634
Luse, Emereth E., 409
Lutherans, 244
Lyst, Edward E., 451
Maag, Samuel, 686
Madden, James F., 723
Mladison County Agricultural Society,
262
Madison County Bar Association, 199
INDEX
Madison County Courthouse (view), 49
Madison county in the War with Mexico,
282
Madison County Joint-Stock Agricultural
Society, 262
Madison County Wheatfield (view), 159
Major May Post No. 244, G. A. R.
(view), 274
Makepeace, Allen, 129
Makepeace, Amasa, 38
Makepeace, Sherman H., 771
Mann, Bert, 575
Manning, George G., 404
Manning, Lucia K.. 405
Manring, Hubert B., 784
Manger, Emerson, 454
Manufacturing statistics, 146
Miaplewood Association, 259
Maplewood cemetery, 259
^^aris, Harry D., 716
Markle, Sam"uel Q., .381
MarkevJlle early merchants. l.'^O; loca-
tion, 130; incorporation, 131
Markleville Bank, 143
Marshall, William, 39
Martindale, Simeon C, 112
Masonic Fraternity. 265
Masonic Temple, Anderson (view), 267
Maul, Walter, 454
Mauzy, Silas R., 377
Mawson, Albert, murder of, 317
May, Isaac E., 431
McClintock, Oliver E., 438
McClure, John F., 113. 766
McClure, Richard A., 622
McCullough, C. K.. 412
McCullough, Neel M., 415
McCullough- Welsh shooting affair, 320
Mcllwraith, John G., 778
McLain, Robert, 004
McDermit, George B., 554
McKenzie, James D., 534
McMahan, Elijah P., 589
McVaugh, W. Frank, 537
Meckel, John, 458
Medical profession, 218
^Medical societies, 224
Merchants' and Manufacturers' Club, El-
wood, 119
Meyer, Charles F., 677
Meyer, Michael, 623
Meyer, William P., 492
Meridian Street South from Tenth Street
(view), 101
Jlethodists, 229
^lexican War, 282
Miami Confederacy, IS
Miamis, 17
Milburn, Anurew, i)'2Z
Military History, 282
Mingle, Oscar F., 400
Jliscellaneous history, 335
Miscellaneous infantrv regiments, 302
Mobley, Lewis F., 539
Moilern Woodmen of America, 280
ilonroe Township, location, 80; early
settlers, 81 ; organization, 81 ; schools,
82 ; industries, 82 ; towns, 82 ;
churches, 83
Montgomery, Samuel D., 475
.\ioon, .Tohn A., 487
Moravian Alission, 228
ilorris, Thomas, 453
.\rorris, William A., 433
.Morris, William R., 769
Mosiman, Frederick, 489
Moss Island Mills (view), 60
Jloss, Sanford R., 531
Moore, Asbury M., 615
Moore, Charles W., 688
:\toore, Thad M., 744
Mound Builders. 11
ilounds of the United States, 13
Mounds Park, 14
Murder of Daniel Hoppis, 315
JIuriler of McClelland Streets, 319
Murder of the Indians in 1824, 312
^Mustard, Daniel F., 552
Myers, William R., 341
National Union, 281
Neese. Reuben, 763
Netterville, James J., 373
Nichol, George. 460
Xorris, Alonzo D., 371
Norton, Martin C, 523
Norton, Thomas M., 776
Norton, William J., 777
Odd Fellows, 269
Office of county superintendent created,
181
Officers Company L, 160th I. V. I. (view),
309
Official Register of county officers, 356
Oil and Natural gas, 7
Oldham, Charles L., 477
Old Horse Car (view), 105
Old Settlers' Association, 263
Old trails, 161
One Hundred and Fifth Infantry, 300
One Hundred and First Infantry, 299
One Hundred and Thirtieth Infantry, 300
One Mile House (view), 109
Order of Owls, 281
Order of Plowmen, 281
Orestes, discovery of natural gas at 132;
incorporated, 132 ; population, 132
Organic Act, 45
Orioles, 281
Orphans ' Home. 250
Osborn, Edward, 626
Oswalt, Alonzo JI., 715
Oswalt, Ernest M., 716
INDEX
Outstanding indebtedness of county, 136
Overman, George M., 401
Ovid, 132
Palmer. Thomas E., 620
Pan Handle, 169
Park View Cemetery Association, 255
Parochial schools. 182
Parsons, James JI., 577
Pathfinders, 281
Patrons of Husbandry, 263
Peck, J. K Webster, 610
Pence. Frank D., 411
Pendleton, C. B., 386
Pendleton, mention, 72; location, 123;
first seat of justice in county, 123; pio-
neers, 124; first tavern in, 124; first
courthouse, 124; population, 125; pres-
ent town government, 125; early recol-
lections of, 125; clubs. 125; schools,
180
Pendleton Agricultural Society. 262
Pendleton Banking Company, 142
Pendleton Public Library (view). 191
"Pendleton Republican," 185
Pendleton Trust Company, 142
Pennsylvania Glass Company, 147
Pennsylvania R. E. Station (view), 170
Perkinsville, 78, 134
Peters, Allen, 551
Pettigrew, George W., 473
Pettigrew, William C, 421
Phillip and Emma Shinkle, Pioneers,
(port.), 336
Phillips, Samuel G., 674
Phipps, George A., 395
Physicians, 218
Piankeshaws. 17
Pioneer Cabin (view), 41
Pioneer doctor, 218
Pioneer life and customs, 39
Pioneer Settlement (view), 71
Pipe, Captain, 29
Pipe Creek, 2
Pipe Creek Township, location, 83; early
settlers, 83; organization, 84; area,
84; pioneers, 84; industries, 85;
schools, 85; churches, 85; towns, 85
Poindexter. Charles, 434
Poling, William S., 671
Pontiac, 20
Pontiac 's war, 26
Population, 355
Portraits— Milton White 315; Levi
Brewer 339; Philip and Emma Shin-
kle, Pioneers, 336
Postotfice of the county, 135
Pottawatomies, 17
Potts. James W., 538
Presbyterians, 244
Press, 182
Pritehard, John B., 405
Procter, Abraham R., 629
' ' Prophet 's town, ' ' 33
Protected Home Circle, 281
Public libraries, 187
Public school, Lapel (view), 180
Public schools of Anderson, 177
Quakers, 238
Quick, William H. H., 769
Quinn, Charles R., 653
Railroads, 167
Rapp, George, 738
Raymer, C. S.. 389
Raymer, John H., 388
Reception given Company L, One Hun-
dred and Sixtieth Indiana Infantry,
344
Recorders. 357
" 'Red Hot' Herald," 184
Reeves, Cicero R., 739
Registered Physicians (1912), 226
Remy Electric Co. Anderson (view), 149
Remy B. Perry, 790
Remy, Frank I., 790
Representatives, 356
Reynolds, Miron G., 361
Richmond. Dr. Corydon, 219
Richmond, Dr. John L., 219
Richland Township, location, 86 ; area,
86; early settlers, 86; industries, 87;
churches, 87 ; schools, 87 ; towns, 88
Richards, Samuel, 343
Richards, William T., 695
Richwine, Absalom, 661
Riley, James Whitcomb, 342, 610
Rittenour, James M., 781
Ritter, Peter, 760
Rivers, 1
Roach, Ward L., 656
Roach, William, 112
Robinson, Milton S., 340
Rodecap, Joseph D., 691
Rodger, J. C, 430
Rogers, John, 68
Rogers, John, first settler, 37
Rosters of the various infantry compa-
nies, 285
Rosters of various cavalry companies,
304
Rothrock, Jesse, 558
Rozelle, Charles J., 462
Rural routes, 135
Ryan, Noah, 775
Rybolt, William A., 618
Sailing, Neils P., 362
Savage, Harry, 720
Savage, William L., 589
Scene Near Perkinsville (view), 76
Schlegel, Elmer, 659
Schools, 177
XVIU
INDEX
Sebuster, Adam, 530
Schurtz, Clyde D.. 741
Scott, BuBhrod W., 468
Seott, Chester F., 407
Soott, W. C, 370
Scott, W. F., 727
Sefton Manufacturing Conipanv, 147
Sellers, Robert, 584
Sellers, Wilfred, 629
Settlement of county, 37
Seventeenth Infantry, 289
Seventy-fifth Infantry, 296
Shanklin, Andrew, 73
Shaul, Winfield, 536
Shawnees, 17
Shav, Patrick, 622
Shay, Thomas, 622
Shepherd, Leona T., 370
Shepherd, Robert C, 369
Sheriffs, 357
Shetterly, Andrew J., 535
Shinkle,'Emma, 335
Shinkle, Philip, 335
Shirley, Philip G., 761
Shocking crime, 317
Showers, George W., 513
Sigler, John H., 603
Sketches of prominent pioneers, 37
Small, Loren, 785
Smaller villages, 132
Smethers, John A., 455
Sm',"!, Edgar C, 680
Sm 111 mystery, 344
Sneed, Bertan E., 504
Societies and fraternities, 261
Sons of St. George, 281
Spad,-. W. E. C, 649
Spanish-American War, 308
Sjiiritualists, 246
Srackangast, Joseph W., 662
Stanlev, Verling, 437
Starr, John T., 372
State Bank of Lapel, 143
State roads, 161
State senators, 357
State treasury notes, 166
St. Clair, General Arthur, 29
St. John's Hospital, 251
St. John's Hospital (view), 252
Stephens, Byron L., 685
Stewart, Jonas, 425
Stilwell, Thomas N., 341
Stinson, Charles, 670
Stohler, George, 684
Stoker, Oliver H., 609
Stony Creek Township, location, 89;
"Dismal," 89; early settlers, 89;
schools, 90; churches, 90; towns, 91
Storms, disastrous, 329
Stottlemyer, S. J., 712
Streets, McClelland, murder of, 319
Striker, Michael, 447
Studley, Charles C, 533
Summitville Bank and Trust Company,
143 ^ ^'
Summitville, discovery of natural gas at
127; industries, 126; location, 126;
pioneers, 126; schools, 180; statistics,
127; water works, 127
Surveyors, 358
Swain", Samuel, 398
' ' Swapping ' ' work, 42
Tamenend, 20
Tappan, Hezekiah, 713
Tecumseh, 33
Tenskwatawa, 32
Terhune, John H., 113
Territory of Indiana organized, 35
Terwilliger, W. Edward, 721
Tin Plate Works, Elwood (view), 156
The Hoosier Poet, 610
Thirty-Fourth Infantry, 293
Thomas, C. B., 751
Thomas, Edward E., 525
Thomas, John L., 654
Thomas, Willard H., 518
Thompson, Charles H., 727
Thompson, William E., 585
Thorn, Alva, 562
Thurston, George F., 570
Thurston, Robert O. P., 602
Thurston, Robert W., 594
Toll roads, 162
Township history, 57
Transportation facilities, 96
Travelers' Protective Association, 281
Treasurers, 358
Treaty of Greenville, 30
Treaty of St. Mary's, 35
Tribe' of Ben Hur, 280
Trueblood, Wilson T., 442
Turnpikes, 162
Twelfth Infantry, 287
Twightwees, 17
Typical ]iioneers, 335
Underwood, Amos, 380
Union Building Anderson (view), 175
Union Traction Company, 175
Union To^\'nship, organization, 91; loca-
tion, 91; area, 91; rivers. 92; early
settlers, 92; industries, 93; schools,
94; churches, 94; towns, 94
United Ancient Order of Druids, 280
Ignited Brethren, 239
Ignited Commercial Travelers, 281
United Order of the Golden Cross, 281
I'^niversalists, 245
Vandevender, Hiram T., 284
A'an Buren Township, location, 94; or-
ganization, 94; surface, 95; early set-
f^DEX
tiers, 95; industries, 95; schools, 96;
churches, 96
Van Osdol, James A., 427
Van Winkle, John Q., 342
Vermillion, Chancey, 544
Vernon. Charles W., 760
Vernon, EdT\ar(l P., 337
Vernon, Elman G., 765
Vestal, Walter W., 605
Views, White River at Mounds Park, 14;
Big Mound at Mounds Park, 17; In-
dians and Pioneers. 3i; Pioneer Cabin,
41 ; Interior Pioneer Cabin, 44 ; Madi-
son County Courthouse. 49 ; Moss Island
Mills, 60; Boone Township Hay, 63;
Falls at Pendleton. 68; Pioneer Settle-
ment, 72 ; Scene near Perkinsville, 76 ;
Harvesting Scene near Lapel, 90; Early
Dwelling in Union Township, 9- ; Meri-
dian Street South from Tenth Street,
101; Old Horse Car, 105; First Trolley
Car, 106; Anderson Postoffice, 108; One
Jlile House, 109; City Building, El-
wood, 116; Alexandria View, 121; Loan
BuiMing, 140; First Gas Well, Ander-
son, 146; Remy Electric Co., Anderson,
149; Gospel Trumpet Publishing Plant,
153; Tin Plate Works. Elwood, 156;
Madison County Wheatfield, 159; Penn-
sylvania R. R. Station, 170; Union
Building, Anderson. 175; Anderson
High School, 178; High School at Alex-
andria, 179; Public School, Lapel, 180;
Anderson Public Library, 188; Elwood
Public Library, 190; Pendleton Public
Library, 191; St. John's Hospital, 252;
Masonic Temple, Anderson, 267; I. O.
O. F. Building, 270; Major May Post,
No. 244, G. A. R., 274; Living Flag,
277; Elks' Home, Anderson, 279; Offi-
cers Company L, 160th I. V. I., 309;
Abbott Cabin, 313; Ninth Street
Bridge, Anderson, Flood of 1913, 331;
Flood Scene, 1913, 333
Vincennes, 35
Walker, Dr. Madison G., 219
Waymire, Harvey A., 619
Webb. Elmer, 665
Webb, Herbert D.. 463
Webster. Robert E., 551
Werking, Walter R., 632
Wjdener. Oliver P., 640
Wise. Augusta, 789
Wise, Daniel, Jr., 788
Williams, Emmor. 450
Williams, Ira, 464
Williams, Robert X., Ill
Williamson, Alvin B., 520
Wilson. William F., 601
Winn. William R., 646
Winings, Mark E.. 509
Winsell, Adam, 38
Wise, Alexander, 631
Wise, William H.. 616
VVhetsel. Andrew J., 643
White, Milton (port.), 315
White river, 1, 92
White River at Mounds Park (view), 14
White, Wesley, Jr., 390
Whitecotton, MJoses, 69
WTiitledge, George A., 666
Witter, Frank W., 561
Woodmen of the World, 280
Wright. C. R., 627
Wright, Fred D., 428
Wright. Thomas W., 759
Wyandots, 17
Yule, Edwin W., 598
Yule John C, 598
Zerface, William G., 493
Zettel, Joseph A., 757
History of Madison County
CHAPTER I
PHYSICAL FEATURES, GEOLOGY, ETC.
Location, Boundakies and Area op the County — Principal Water-
. Courses — General Character op the Surface — Underlying Rocks
OP the Upper Silurian and Devonian Periods^Pendleton Sand-
Stone — Niagara Limestone — Quarries — The Glacial Drift — The-
ory OF Glaciers — Moraines — Gravel Beds— Natural Gas — Petro-
leum— The Alexandria Oil Field — The Primitive Forests —
Mineral Spring.
Madison county is situated a little northeast of the center of the
state, being bounded on the north by Grant county; on the east by
Delaware and Henry; on the south by Hancock, and on the west by
Tipton and Hamilton. The fortieth parallel of latitude crosses the
county about two and a half miles north of the southern boundary and
the eighty-sixth meridian of longitude lies six miles west of the western
boundary. The county contains four miles of Range 6, all of Range 7,
and five miles of Range 8, east; one mile of Township 17, all of Town-
ships 18, 19, 20 and 21, and five miles of Township 22, north. This
gives it a width of fifteen miles from east to west, a length of thirty
miles from north to south and an area of 450 square miles.
White river, the most important stream in the county, crosses the
eastern boundary about one and a half miles northeast of Chesterfield,
follows a general westerly direction and crosses the western boundary
not far from the village of Perkinsville. Its length in the county is not
far from twenty miles.
Fall creek enters the county from the east, about five miles north
of the southeast corner, flows a southwesterly course through the town-
ships of Adams, Fall Creek and Green, and enters Hamilton county
near the southwest corner of the last named township. Its principal
tributary in Madison county is Lick creek, which rises in Henry county
and runs westwardly through the southern part of Madison, emptying
into Fall creek near the Hamilton county line. Sly Fork, another
tributary, has its source in Union township. After flowing southward
for about four miles it turns west and finally discharges its waters into
Fall creek some two miles east of Ovid. Prairie creek, a little stream
about eight miles in length, flows southwest through Anderson and
1
2 HISTORY OF MADISOxX COUNTY
Fall Creek townships, deriving its name from the fact that it drains
the prairie lying between the cities of Anderson and Pendleton. It
empties into Fall creek a short distance above the falls.
Next in importance after Fall creek is Pipe creek, which rises in
Delaware county, crosses the eastern boundary of iladison about three
miles south of the northeast corner, then flows a southwesterly direction
past Alexandria and Frankton and enters Hamilton county about one
mile north of Perkinsville. It takes its name from the Indian chief
known as "Captain Pipe." Its principal tributaries are Little Pipe,
Mud and Lilly creeks. Little Pipe creek has its source in the southern
part of Section 28, Township 21, Range 6, in Monroe township. Its
course is northwest for its entire length (about four miles), untfl it
empties into the main stream just south of Alexandria. Mud creek,
whose name indicates its character, rises in Grant county, follows a
general southwesterly course thrx)ugh Van Buren township, past Sum-
mitville, touches the southeast corner of Boone township, then turns more
toward the south and continues its course through Monroe township,
emptying into Pipe creek about a mile west of Alexandria. Lilly
creek rises in Boone township and follows a course a little west of south
until its waters fall into Pipe creek, about four miles northeast of
Frankton. Its total length is about eight miles.
Duck creek rises in Boone township, about two miles from the Grant
county line, and flows west into Duck Creek township, where it turns
toward the southwest, running past Elwood and entering Tipton county
not far from the Hamilton county line. Little Duck creek, about six
miles in length, rises in the northern part of Pipe Creek township and
flows southwest, uniting with the main stream two miles south of
Elwood.
Killbuek creek (sometimes written Kill Buck), so called for a noted
chief of the Delaware tribe, rises in DelawfJ^re county, enters Madison
near the northeast corner of Richland township, then flows southwest
until it empties into the White river near the northern limit of the
city of Anderson. Little Killbuek begins in ]Monroe township, unites
with the old canal in Section 18, Township 20, Range 8, not far from
the old village of Prosperity, and from this point runs south, emptying
into the Big Killbuek near the southern line of Richland township.
Mill creek rises in ITnion township, not far from the source of Sly
Fork, but flows in an opposite direction and empties into the White
river near Chesterfield. It is only about two miles long.
Stony creek rises in Jackson township, flows southwest past Fishers-
burg and enters Hamilton county a short distance south of that village.
It is about ten miles in length and takes its name from the stones
abounding in its bed. The lower portion of its course is through Stony
Creek township, which derives its name from the stream.
Indian creek rises near the northeast corner of La Faj'ette town-
ship, flows west and empties into the White river in Jackson township,
near the village of Halford.
Sand creek, formerly called Mud branch, rises in the southern part
of Stony Creek township, flows southwest across the corner of Green
township and enters Hamilton county about a mile south of the Pendle-
ton and Noblesville pike. It is about seven miles long.
HISTORY OF .MADISOX COIXTV 3
Other streams are Winsell's hraiieli, whicli is aliout four miles long
and empties into Fall creek near Iluntsville: Foster's hraneii, wliieh
rises in Jackson township, flows aci'oss the noi'tliwest corner of Fall
Creek township, thence south tlirough (iieen townsiiip and falls into
Fall creek three miles helow Peiidh'toii; and Green's hranch, which
empties into the White river near tlie city of Anderson. Winsell's
branch derives its name from Adam Winsell, a blacksmith, who was a
member of the first court of Madison county, serving as associate judge
from 1823 to 1830, while Jutlges Wick and Eggleston occupied the
bench of the circuit court.
These water-courses provide reasonably good natural drainage for
all parts of the county and tliis natural drainage has been supple-
mented by a system of tlitches which has done much to bring the land
under cultivation and render the soil more productive.
That portion of the county lying south of the Big Four railroad,
and drained by Fall creek and its trilmtaries, has an undulating sur-
face, with hills of moderate size along Fall creek and the White river.
These elevations generall.y consist of beds of bowlders and gravel and
bear unmistakable evidence of glacial action. This is especially true
of a belt ranging from three to four miles in width, extending from
the Lick creek valley, three miles southwest of Pendleton, in a north-
easterly direction along the south side of the tract called the prairie,
crossing the White river near Anderson and following the valley of the
Killbuck creek to the Delaware county line. The northern portion of
the county is more level and it is in this section that artificial drainage
by means of ditches has been I'esorted to most extensively.
State Geologist Collett, in his report for the year 1884, says: "The
greater part of Madison county is covered with a deep deposit of
glacial drift, but the few streams which cut through it and reveal the
rock in place, indicate that the eastern and northern parts of the
county rest on rocks of the Ujjpei" Silurian age, but in the southwestern
corner, endiracing Green, and parts of Fall Creek and Stony Creek
townships, the underlying rock is Devonian. The falls of Fall creek,
at Pendleton, furnish the boldest and most remarkable outcrop of rock
in the count}-. The ledge forming the cataract is composed of heavily
stratified sandstone of a peculiar structui'e. It consists entirel.y of
quartz crystals of pretty uniform size and but feebly held together,
sometimes by a cement of peroxide of iron, but more fre(iuentl.v by no
visible force, and therefore nuicli disposed to crumble ; .vet it has a
wonderful power to resi.st llie action of water. The ledge over which
the water falls at Pendleton has scarcely undergone any change since
the white nuin first became ac(|uaintc(l witli it, sixty years ago."
Six years t)efore Pi-ofessor Collelt made this report, E. T. Cox, at
that time the state geologist, took measurements at Pendleton, concern-
ing which he says: "We have the following section extending from the
bed of Fall c-reek to the top of the drift, all belonging to the Corniferous
epoch :
1. Drift with large bowlders of granite and other crystalline
rocks .strewed over the surface "iO feet.
2. Ash colored, rough weathering, cherty, magnesian lime-
4 HISTORY OF MADISOX COUNTY
stone, alternating with soft, sandy greenish colored,
pyritiferous layers, in all about 4 feet.
3. Buff, sandy, magnesian limestone, Pleurotomaria and coral
bed 4 feet.
4. Heavy bedded and soft, white sandstone, upper part fos-
silif erous 15 feet. ' '
The Pendleton sandstone may be had in blocks five feet in thickness.
When first quarried it is soft, but hardens upon exposure to the atmos-
phere and "has a good reputation as a building stone, both for beauty
and durability." When the Indianapolis Glass Works first started the
deposits at Pendleton furnished the sand and proved to be well adapted
to the manufacture of glass, but the stone has never been extensively
used for that purpose. Geologists seem to differ with regard to the
place this sandstone occupies in the geologic scale. Specimens were sent
to James Hall, state geologist of New York, who saj^s: "My own con-
victions are that it is the equivalent of our own Schoharie Grit, being
the western prolongation of beds that are generally well developed in
Canada West, but making no conspicuous figure in the geology. Sev-
eral of the fossils are identical with those of our own Schoharie Grit,"
etc. Dana and other eastern geologists have located the Oriskany sand-
stone in exactly the position occupied by the Pendleton deposits, and
CoUett was inclined to the opinion that the sandstone at the falls of Fall
creek belongs to that formation.
W. S. Blatcliley, who was state geologist for several years in the
early part of the present century, appears to have devoted more atten-
tion to the geology of Madison county than any of his predecessors. In
his report for 1905 he says: "Three geologic periods are represented
in the surface rocks of this county — the Niagara limestone of the
Silurian, the Pendleton sandstone of the Devonian, and the glacial drift
of the Pleistocene."
After a thorough investigation of the subject, Mr. Blatcliley reached
the conclusion that for limestone the county ranks among the first in the
state, both in quantity and qualitj'. The Niagara limestone outcrops
at numerous places in the beds of the water-courses. It shows at three
points on the south bank of Fall creek in the town of Pendleton — at the
lower edge of the town, at the foot of the falls, and on a knoll about two
hundred yards below the fall. On Foster's branch, four miles below
Pendleton, is an outcrop of Niagara limestone of the hard, gray variety.
Collett noticed this outcrop in 1884 and classed the stone as Cornif erous.
He described it as a "compact, crystalline limestone, which will prove a
durable material for foundations, cellar walls, etc." One and a half
miles northeast of Ingalls sixty acres on the farm of David V. Miller
were found to be underlain with limestone and a stone crushing plant
was erected there in 1905 to prepare material for road building. In
his report for 1878 Cox mentions a quarry on the farm of William
Crim, located on the bank of the White river, about two miles west of
the courthouse in Anderson. Upon examining this quarry he found "as
many as eleven workable layers of stone, vai'ving from four to twelve
inches in thickness."
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 5
In the western part of the cfty of Alexandria is a macadam plant
erected for the purpose of utilizing a deposit of some fifteen acres, the
stone having all the essential qualities of good road material. Another
quarrj' is that known as Daniel Abbott's, located in Section 33, Town-
ship 21, Range 7, near the soutlieast corner of Pipe Creek township.
Other places where the Niagara limestone is quarried are near Frankton,
on Pipe creek, and in the vicinity of Pendleton.
Probably no phenomena have proven more perplexing to students
of geology than those which brought about the destruction of vast
beds of rock and the distribution of their fragmentary remains over
large areas of territory far from their original location. For example,
the large bowlders found all over Indiana, commonly called "nigger-
heads, ' ' are of a granitoid character, belonging to beds that are nowhere
represented in the state, and must have come from some place beyond
her borders. Various theories have been advanced to account for these
conditions, the most prominent of which, and the one most generally
accepted by scientists, is the glacial theory. The glacial epoch, or
Pleistocene period of geologic time, sometimes called the "Ice Age,"
comprises the earliest part of the Quaternary period. During the
latter part of the Tertiary period, preceding, there was a gradual lower-
ing of temperature throughout the north temperate zone until the entire
surface was covered with large bodies of ice, called glaciers. • These
glaciers were formed by periodical or intermittent snows. During the
period of rest between those falls of snow, that which had already fallen
became compacted by pressure until the whole mass was converted into
one solid body.
The pressure upon the yielding mass of snow imparted motion to the
glacier, which cari-ied with it rocks and other mineral matter. This
grinding and, equalizing work of the glaciers in time effected a material
change in the topography and meteorological conditions of the earth.
Not only were mountain peaks worn down and the general leveling
of the land brought about, but vast quantities of earth and sand were
carried forward by the streams of water formed by the melting ice and
flowing beneath the glaciers and deposited in the ocean. In this way
the shores of the continait were pushed forward during a period of
several centuries and the superficial area of the land was materially
increased.
In general, the course of the North American glaciers was toward
the south. One of them extended over Canada and the northeastern
part of the United States, reaching from the Atlantic ocean on the
east to the Missouri river on the west, covering the entire basin of the
Great Lakes. When the ice melted, the rocks and other debris carried
along by the glacier were left to form what is known as the glacial
drift, also called till, bowlder clay and older diluvium.
The accumulation of earth and stone carried by the glacier was
sometimes heaped up along the margin, where it formed a ridge or
deposit called a lateral moraine. When two glaciers came together, the
deposit formed at the point of conjunction is called a medial moraine ;
the more level deposit under the body of the glacier is known as the
ground moraine, and that at the edge of the glacier is called a terminal
6 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
moraine. The valley of the Ohio river was the terminus of the glacier
that once covered Madison county and the channel of that stream owes
its origin to the melting of the ice and the flow of water which always
underlies the bed of a glacier. As the melting process proceeded, the
terminal margin withdrew to the north, and wherever there remained
undestroyed rock barriers or dams they gave direction to the waters
of the terminal moraines. In this way the course of the Wabash river
and the two forks of the White river were determined, or modified,
centuries before Columbus discovered the New World.
The rate at which the glaciers moved rarely exceeded one foot per
day. As it glided along the bowlders at the bottom left marks or
scratches on the bed rock, and from these marks or strise the geologist
has been able to determine with reasonable accuracy the course of the
glacier, by noting the direction of the striae.
In some portions of North America the lateral moraines rise to a
height of from 500 to 1,000 feet. The terminal moraine in northern
Indiana, that marks the southern boundary of the Great Lake basin,
contains several mounds that are from 150 to 200 feet in height. In
Madison county the drift has been more uniformly deposited, though
there are abundant evidences of glacial action. Collett, in the report al-
ready alluded to, says:
"The ice age has left distinct foot-prints on the southeastern sec-
tion of Madison county. A line drawn from near the northeast comer
of Richland township to Anderson and continued in the same direc-
tion down the valley of Prairie creek by Pendleton to the southern line
of the county, will traverse a region of valleys of erosion between hills
of washed gravel deposited by currents from beneath the dissolving
glacier, while the finer and lighter materials were carried forward to
form the clay surface of the counties south. The most distinct remains
of a lateral moraine that I have seen anywhere is in the piles of gravel
and bowlders that skirt the southeastern side of the glacial river bed
which stretches from White river to Fall creek in what is now known
as the Prairie. This valley of erosion has an average width of about
a mile and is some thirty feet below the general level of the country,
while the gravel along the southeast side is piled up from forty to fifty
feet high. The valley crosses Fall creek and continues somewhat nar-
rowed to Lick creek near the Hancock county line. At the point of
crossing Fall creek bowlders of granite, gneiss and trap rock are pro-
fusely distribpted over several hundred acres of land."
Southeast of this eroded valley are gravel hills and the soil in that
section is usually of a sandy loam. North and west of it the gravel
beds are rare and near the northern boundary of the county entirely
disappear, though gravel is sometimes found where there is notliing on
the surface to indicate its presence. In his report for 1905 the state
geologist devotes considerable space to the road building materials of the
state and on a map of Madison county shows the deposits of gravel
that have been developed. Two of these are in the western part of Duck
Greek township; one in the northwestern part of Boone; one near
Alexandria, and one two miles farther west, in Monroe township ; three
in the southeastern part of Pipe Creek; two in the northeastern and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 7
two in the southwestern part of Richland; one near White river, in
Jackson township, and another on Pipe creek, four miles farther north ;
five in Union township; four in Anderson, not far from the city and
three farther south; three in Green; five in Fall Creek and five in
Adams. The map also shows the location of several gravel beds that
at that time had not been opened.
No account of the geologj- of the county would be complete without
some mention of oil and natural gas, both of which have been found
within the county limits. Natural gas is described as "a member of
the paraffin series (hydrocarbons), a combination of carbon and hydro-
gen, about 60 per cent as heavy as air and highly inflammable." It
is composed chiefly of marsh gas, or methane, the gas fields in Ohio and
Indiana having been formed by the decomposition of animal matter,
while the Pennsylvania field is composed of decayed vegetation. The
decomposition, or chemical change, that generated the gas is believed
to have taken place at comparatively low temperatures within the por-
ous rocks of the Lower Silurian formation, the rocks serving as reser-
voirs for the gas.
Natural gas was probably fii-st used in connection with the Delphic
oracles, about 1000 B. C, and it has been used for centuries by the
Chinese in the evaporation of salt water. It was first used in the
United States in 1821, when a well one and a half inches in diameter
and twenty-seven feet deep was drilled near a "gas spring" at Fre-
donia, New York, and thel gas used for lighting the streets. In 1838 its
presence was noticed at Findlay, Ohio, and three years later it was
found in a well at Charleston, "West Virginia. While developing the oil
fields of Pennsylvania, in 1860, the gas was used under the boilers
instead of coal, but the first systematic use of it as a fuel was at Erie,
Pennsylvania, in 1868. On March 14, 1886, the first gas well in Indiana
"blew in" at Portland, where it was struck in the Trenton limestone.
The second well was opened at Eaton, Delaware county, in September,
1886, and the third was sunk at Kokomo, gas being struck in October
of that year.
Little was known of the Trenton limestone prior to 1884, except
from the outcrops in Canada and some parts of the United States. In
that year gas was struck at Findlay, Ohio, which marked the beginning
of an era of prosperity for that city and led to the investigations in
Indiana, with the results above mentioned.
In Madison county, the first gas well was sunk on the farm of
Samuel Cassell, at Alexandria, early in 1887. On the evening of Janu-
ary 25, 1887, a meeting was held at the courthouse in Anderson for the
purpose of organizing a natural gas company. Some work had been
done about a week before that time and the names of forty of the rep-
rekentative citizens had been signed to articles of association for a
stock company with a capital of $20,000, the organization of which
was completed at the meeting of the 25th. Drilling was soon after-
ward commenced on a piece of land donated by John Hickey, imme-
diately south of the Midland railroad station and not far from Meridian
street, where gas was struck in the Trenton limestone at a depth of
847 feet on the morning of March 31, 1887. This was the second
8 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
well in the county and the first at or near the city of Anderson.
A further account of the development of the natural gas field of the
county will be found in the chapter on Finance and Industries.
The original rock pressure throughout the Indiana gas field was
from 300 to 325 pounds to the square inch and the supply appeared to
be inexhaustible. Ihis belief was so prevalent that the gas was used
in the most wasteful and extravagant manner. In 1893 the Indiana
legislature passed an act prohibiting the waste of gas and oil, but it
was, a case of locking tlie door after the horse had been stolen. So
much had already been wasted that it was evident a few years more
would witness the failure of the accumulated supply and that centuries
would probably have to elapse before another could be formed in the
porous rock, if indeed a new supply could ever be generated by natural
processes.
Petroleum, kerosene, or coal oil, is a natural rock oil, composed of
hydrocarbons and classed with asphalt and natural gas as a bitumen.
It was known to the ancients and during the days of the Roman empire
was obtained from Sicily and burned in lamps. The Pennsylvania
Rock Oil Company was organized in 1854, but it was not until five
years later that oil was struck in paying quantities in the western part
of the state. Then fortunes were made in a comparatively short time
and the excitement became widespread. Prospecting for oil was car-
ried on in various parts of the country, but most of them ended in fail-
ure and the few wells yielding oil were poor payers and were soon
abandoned. In 1885 the Lima, Ohio, field was developed and in that
year the production in the United States was about twenty-two million
barrels.
The first successful attempt to develop an oil field in high pressure
gas territory was near Alexandria, Madison county, in the spring of
1897. About the beginning of that year the Northern Ohio Oil Com-
pany secured a lease upon the farm of Nimrod Carver, about two miles
northeast of the city of Alexandria, and on April 20, 1897, the first
oil well in the county came in with a flow of eight hundred barrels
daily. Oil operators flocked to the new field and high prices were paid
for leases upon lands in the vicinity of the Carver farm. Between that
time and March 4, 1898, seventy-five wells were drilled in the Alexandria
field. Of these, forty yielded both oil and gas, thirty-three proved to
be gas wells only, and two were dry. In 1900 the output from this field
was about sixty thousand barrels. During the next year a number of
new wells were drilled, but most of them were light producers — about
thirty barrels each per day. Of ninety-four wells drilled in Monroe
township, thirty-nine were dry; one on section 3 produced forty bar-
rels daily at the start, and one on section 7 had an initial flow of one
hundred barrels. Two wells on the J. M. Hughes farm in section 10
showed ninety and one hundred and fifty barrels respectively at the be-
ginning, but this yield soon fell off. Of the ten wells drilled in Richland
township only four were producers. One started at seventy-five barrels
and one on the Fuller farm in section 6 yielded one hundred barrels.
At the close of the year the wells on the Hughes and Fuller farms were
the only ones in operation. From this time on interest in the Alex-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 9
andria waned and in 1908 operations were practically at a standstill.
Only two wells were sunk in that year, both on section 22, in Monroe
township, and they yielded but five and ten barrels respectively. The
total shipment of oil from the field in 1908 was only one hundred and
eight barrels.
When the first white men came to what is now Madison county they
found a large part of the surface covered with a heavy growth of tim-
ber. The principal varieties of forest trees were yellow and white
poplar; white, burr, red and black oak; black and white walnut; ■wdld
cherry; white, red and slippery elm; white, blue and black ash; shell-
bark and pignut hickorj' ; sycamore ; several varieties of maple ; honey
locust; beech, sassafras and basswood. Some cottonwood grew along
the courses of the streams and there were a few minor species, such as
hackberry, mulberry, ironwood, buckeye, etc. At that time the soil
was of more value for cultivation than the timber, and many trees were
cut down and burned that, if they were standing today, would be worth
more than the land upon which they grew. Then no thought of a timber
famine entered the minds of the pioneers. Far away to the westward
stretched the boundless forest and to the frontiersman it seemed, if he
gave it a thought, that there would be timber for the use of the people
for generations to come. Now, though less than a century has passed,
the conservation of American forests is an engrossing subject. Possibly
much of the timber might have been saved, but would the people of the
present day act differently under the same conditions? Perhaps not.
While making his investigations in Madison county in 1878, State
Geologist Cox noticed several "bold, running springs of chalybeate
water" at the base of the bluff near what is now Mounds Park, about
three miles above Anderson, on the White river. In his report for that
year he gives the following analysis of the water from this spring:
"Bold running spring; cold and clear; strong inky taste; bubbles
up through sand; no appearance of escaping gases; decidedly alkaline
reaction.
Grains in an imperial gallon.
' ' Insoluble silicates 1.6580
Oxide of iron 7287
Lime 8.1610
Alumina trace
Magnesia trace
Sulphuric acid 2.7500
Carbonic acid, combined 7.1070
Iodine trace
Alkalies trace
Loss and undetermined 3.5953
Total in one gallon 24.0000
' ' The above constituents are probably combines as follows :
Bicarbonate of lime 10.898
Carbonate of protoxide of iron 1.177
Sulphate of lime 6.672
10 HISTORY OF MADLSOX COUNTY
Insoluble silicates 1.658
Magnesia trace
Alumina trace
Alkalies trace
Iodine trace
Loss and undetermined 3.595
Total 24.000"
The analysis further disclosed the fact that the amount of gas in an
imperial gallon was 13.580 per cent, and the amount of free carbonic
acid was 6.473 per cent. Concerning the results of the analysis, Mr.
Cox says: "This is a very pure calcic chalybeate water, a tine tonic
and alterative, and is admirable for persons laboring under general
debility and dyspepsia. The location is all that could be desired for
a watering-place and resort."
From the foregoing it may be seen that while Madison county has
no peculiar or startling geological formations, it is well supplied with
mineral resources in the way of stone and road building materials ;
that during the era of natural gas and oil it was one of the largest pro-
ducing counties in the state ; that the glacial drift has given to the
county a fertile soil ; that it has one of the finest mineral springs in
central Indiana, and that its streams and ditches afford ample drain-
age to render the county one of the most productive and healthful in
the state.
CIIAl'TKH II
AH()R1(;IXA1. IXllAlilTANTS
TlIK .MoTM* Hril.DKHS TllKdKlKS (JONCKUNINC TllEM DlSTltlCTS IN THE
United Statks — Tiikir Distinciisiiing Ciiakacteristics — Mounds in
IMadison County — Distribution of Indian Tribes when America
First Discovered — Indiana Tribes — The Deuawares — Their His-
tory AND Tradition — A Delaware Prophet Inspires Pontiac —
Noted Dekaware Chieftains — A Leciend.
Who Were tile first luiiiuHi liciii^s to iiili;il)it the coiitiiu'ut ol' North
America ' The (luestion is more easily asked than answered. When
the first white men eame they found here a peeuliar raee of eopper
colored people, to whom they fiave the name of Indians, hut aftei- a
time it became evident to the student of archaeology that the Indian
had his predecessors. These predecessors have been named Mound
Builders, on account of the gi'eat numher ol' mounds or eartinvorks they
erected, and whicii constitute the only data from which to write their
history. For fully a century the cliaracter and fate of the Mound
Builders have been discussed by antiipiarians and archaeologists, hut
the problem appears to l)e no nearer a positive solution than when it
first came up for consideration. The American Anti(|uarian Society
was organized in 1812 and some investigations were made during the
years immediately following, but the first work of note on American
archaeology, entitled "Anciont Monuments of the Mississip[)i Valley,"
compiled ))\- E. G. S(|uier and K. H. Davis, did not make its appear-
ance until 1847. In that work the authors presented the theory that the
Mound Builders belonged to a very old race and that the.v were dis-
tinct from and in no way related to the Indians found here when the
continent was discovered by Columbus. Allen Lapham, who wrote on
the '■ Anti(|uities of AVisconsin," in IHr);"), als" held to the separate race
and gi'eat age theory.
In fact, such was the hyjiothesis of most of the early writers on the
sub.jecf, and some haxc arranged the peiiod of man in the Mississippi
valley into four epochs, viz.: 1. The Mound Builders; 2. The Villagers;
3. The F'ishermen ; 4. The Indians. This theory, which is somewhat
fanciful, presupposes four distinct races or peoples and is not sus-
tained by any existing or known facts. Baldwin, in his valuable work
on "Ancient America" (p. 71), says: "They were umiuestionably
American aborigines and not immigrants from another continent. That
appears to me the most i'easonabl(> suggestion which a.ssumes that the
Mound Builders came originally from .Alexico and Central America.
11
12 HISTORY OF JIADISON COUNTY
It explains many facts connected with their remains. In the Great
Valley their most populous settlements were at the south. Coming from
Mexico and Central America, they would begin their settlements on the
Gulf coast, and afterward advance gradually up the river to tlie Ohio
valley. It seems evident that they came by this route, and their
remains show that their only connection with the coast was at the south.
Their settlements did not reach the coast at any other point."
On the other hand, JIcLean says: "Prom time immemorial, there
has been immigration into Mexico from the North. One type nfler
another has followed. In some cases different branches of the same
family have successively followed one another. Before the Christian
era the Nahoa immigration from the North made its ajipearance. They
were the founders of the stone works in northern Mexico. Certain
eminent scientists have held that the Nahoas belonged to the race that
made the mounds of tlie Ohio and ilississippi valleys. Following this
people came the Toltecs, and with them the light begins to dawn upon
ancient Mexican migration. They were cultivated and constituted a
branch of the Nahoa family. * * * Jq ^^g light of modern dis-
covery and scientifie investigation, we are able to follow the JMound
Builders. We first found them in Ohio, engaged in tilling the soil and
developing a civilization peculiar to themselves. Driven fi'om their
homes, they sought an asylum in the South, and from there they wan-
dered into Mexico, where we begin to learn something more definite
concerning them."
Two more diverse theories than those advanced by Baldwin and
McLean can hardly be imagined. Of course, it might be that the emi-
gration from Ohio occurred at a very earl.y period of time and that
the descendants of the emigrants at a later date found their way back
into the United States, as suggested by Baldwin, but such a theory is
scarcely tenable. There is not, then, and never has been, a unity of
opinion regarding the Mound Builders. While the early ^vriters classed
them as a hypothetical people, supposed to have antedated the Indian
tribes as inhabitants of the Ohio and Mississippi valleys, the Mound
Builders of these valleys are now regarded "as the ancestors and repre-
sentatives of the tribes found in the same region by the Spanish, French
and English pioneers." Says Brinton :
"The period when the Mound Builders flourished has been differ-
ently estimated; but there is a growing tendency to reject the assumption
of a very great antiquity. There is no good reason for assigning any
of the remains in the Ohio valley an age antecedent to the Christian
era, and the final destruction of tlieir towns may well have been but a
few generations before the discovery of the continent by Columbus.
Faint traditions of this event were still retained by the tribes who occu-
pied the region at the advent of the whites. Indeed, some plausible
attempts have been made to identify their descendants with certain
existing tribes."
The culture of the Mound Builders was distinctly Indian in char-
acter. De Soto and the early French explorers in the southern part
of what is now the United States found certain tribes who were mound
builders in the early part of the sixteenth century, and the relics found
HISTORY OF I\rADISOX COUNTY l:j
in many of the mounds differ but sliglitly from those of known Indian
origin. As these facts have been developed tlie theory that the Mound
Builders were the ancestors of the Indians has in recent years come to
be generall}' accepted by archaeologists.
Cyrus Thomas, of the United States ]5ureau of Ethnology, has
divided the mounds of the United States into eigiit districts.
1. Tlie Wisconsin district, which embraces tiie soutlu'ru half of
Wisconsin, the northern part of Illinois and the northeastern portion
of Iowa. In this district the effigy mounds aimnnd — that is, mounds
bearing a resemblance in form to .some beast or bird. They are sui)-
posed to have been copied from the bird or animal that .served as a
totem for the tribe that erected them, though they may have been objects
of veneration or worship. Effigy mounds are also found in .some of the
other districts, one of the most noted of this class being the "Great
Sei'pent," of Adams county, Ohio. This mound, which is in the form of
a serpent, if straightened out, would l)e l,;i48 feet in length. It is located
on a narrow ridge, almost surrounded by three streams of watrr. The
opened jaws measure seventy-five feet across and immediately in front
of the mouth is a circular or elliptical inclosure with a heap of stones
in the center. The body of the sei'pent is from thirty to iifty feet wide
and about eight feet in height in tlie highest part.
2. The Ujiper JMississippi or Illinois district, which includes north-
ern aiul central Illinois, soutlieastei-n Iowa and nortl.eastern Missouri.
The mounds of tliis district -are mostly conical tunuili, located on the
ridges, uplands, etc.
;5. Th(! Ohio district, which eniljraces Ohio, eastern Indiana and the
western portion of West Virginia. The distijiguishing feature of this
district is the large number of fortifications and altar mounds, though
the conical tumidi are also plentiful. One of the largest known mounds
of this class is the one at Grave creek, West Virginia, which is 900 feet
in circumference and seventy feet high. In the State of Ohio alone
about i;3,000 mounds have been imted.
4. The New York district, including the cmtral lake region and the
western portion of the state, where the enclosing walls or fortifications
constitute the leading reliqe of the ]\I()und Huilders.
•"). The Appalachian district, embracing western North Carolina,
eastern Tennessee, southwestern Virginia and southeastern Kentucky.
In the mounds of this district have been found a large number of stone
pipes, bracelets of copper, mica jjlates and other relics, many of which
have not been seen elsewhere, and the district has also furnished a larger
lunnber of skeletons than any of the othei-s. Some mounds of the fortifi-
cation t.vpe have likewise lieen found in this district.
6. This district includes the middle portion of Mississippi, south-
eastern ilissouri, northern Arkansas, western Teiniessee, western Ken-
tucky, southern Illinois and the Wabash valley of Indiana. Here the
truncated and terraced pyramid mounds are found in greater numbers
than in any of the preceding districts. There are also inclosures, ditches
and canals, and pottery and stone coffins have been found in several of
the mounds that have been explored. Near Cahokia, Illinois, is a
truncated pyramid mound 500 by 700 feet at the base and 97 feet in
height.
14 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
7. The Lower Mississippi district, which includes the southern half
of Arkansas, the greater part of Louisiana and the southern part of
Mississippi. The mounds of this district display no marked characteris-
tics, being chiefly of the conical type.
8. The Gulf States district, which embraces the southern part of
the country east of Mississippi. Here the large flat-topped pyramidal
mounds and inclosures or fortifications abound. There are also a number
of effigy mounds, the great eagle mound of Georgia being one of the
finest specimens of this class in the country.
Concerning the structure and purpose of the mounds, Brinton says:
"The mounds or tumuli are of earth, or earth mingled with stones, and
are of two general classes, the one with a circular base and conical in
shape, the other with a rectangular base and a superstructure in the
form of a truncated pyramid. The former are generally found to con-
tain human remains and are therefore held to have been barrows or
White River at Mounds Park
sepulchral monuments raised over the distinguished dead, or, in some
instances serving as the communal place of interment for a gens or elan.
The truncated pyramids, witli their flat surfaces, were evidently the
sites for buildings, such as temples or council houses, which being con-
structed of perishable material have disappeared."
'E. T. Cox, state geologist, in liis report for 1878, says: "By far the
most unique and well preserved earthworks in this state are on the
banks of White river, in iladison county, about three miles from Ander-
son, the county seat. The principal work in a group of eight is a
circular embankment with a, deep ditch on the inside. The central area
is one hundred and thirty-eight feet in diameter, and contains a mound
in the center four feet high and thirty feet in diameter. There is a
slight depression between the mound and the ditch. The gateway is
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 15
thirty feet wide. Carriages may enter at the gateway and drive around
the mound, as the ditcli terminates on each side of the gateway. The
diteh is sixty feet wide and ten and a half feet deep; the embankment
is sixty-tliree feet wide at the base and nine feet higli. and the entire
diameter of the circle is three hundred and eighty-four feet.
"When I first visited these works, which ^o by the name of the
'Mounds," there were growing upon the embankment a great many
large forest trees, from one foot to four feet in diameter. Several large
walnut trees have since been cut off; with that exception the work still
remains covered with a growth in no respect differing from the adjoin-
ing forest, and the embankment and ditch are in as good a state of
preservation as when abandoned by the builders."
In the immediate vicinity of this large work are seven smaller ones,
four of which are circular in form and two are in the form of links,
slightly bent together in the center, while one consists of two embank-
ments about two and a half feet high, with a gateway at each end.
The largest of these subordinate works is one of the link-shaped forma-
tions, situated 325 feet northwest of the main embankment. It is 181
feet in length, 122 feet across the widest part, and 57 feet across the
constricted part. The wall is from one foot to six feet high, with a
ditch on the inside, and in the end nearest the large mound is a narrow
gateway.
Directly south of this and 475 feet from the large mound is a
circle 126 feet in diameter, with a bank about three feet in height and
a slight ditch on the inside. Still further south, in the public road, is
another circle, the greater part of which has been obliterated by passing
vehicles. The second link mound almost touches the large work on the
west side. Its greatest length is 106 feet, the bank is only about two
feet high and it has no gateway.
A debt of gratitude is due Frederick Bronnenberg, late owner of
the grounds upon which these naounds are situate. During the many
years he owned the property he kept the ancient earthworks from being
obliterated by the plo\f man's share and guarded with jealous eye the
handsome woodlands surrounding tliem. To have stuck an ax into
one of the stately elms or sturdy oaks would have been sacrilege in his
estimation. As long as he was the owner of these grovinds, thev were
open to visitors and he took pride in the ownership of this mysterious
and interesting place. Many people censured Jlr. Bronnenberg because
he would not part with the grounds and convey them to persons who
wished to purchase the place and convert it into a resort. But it seems
that Providence has worked out a better way for their preservation
and has given to the pcojtle a place for rest, amusement and plea.sure
that will be more lasting than by private ownership. Since the death
of Mr. Bronnenberg. his heirs have transferred the property to the
Indiana Union Traction Company, which now conducts the grove as a
pleasure resort, but in such a way that the mounds shall be preserved
and perpetuated. Around the large work is a sti'ong wire fence, with
notices posted at frequent intervals forbidding visitors to walk upon
the slope or crest of the embankment. This policy, if continued, will
preserve this interesting relic of a bygone race for future generations
16 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
to admire and study. At the foot of the blufE is the mineral spring
mentioned at the close of the preceding chapter. This spring may have
had some influence upon the aborigines in the selection of a location for
their earthwork, though Professor Cox, in the same report, notes that
"On the same section of land, but half a mile farther up the river,
and on the same side of the stream, there is another cluster of earth-
works that are of nearly equal interest; in fact, the principal work is,
in some respects, more remarkable than the large circle (previously
described). The outline is of irregular shape — coustricted on one end
and at the sides; at the other end there is a gateway nine feet wide,
protected by two small mounds, now about four feet high. The wall is
thirty to thirty-five feet wide at the base and about four feet high ; ditch
eight feet wide. A central line through the longer way is N. 67° E.
and 296 feet long; it is 160 feet across at the widest and 150 feet across
at the narrowest part — near the middle. With the exception of the two
mounds at the gateway, which lie on the cultivated side of a section
fence, and have been cut down by the plow, the remainder of this
antiquity is in as good state of preservation as when deserted by its
original occupants. Large trees are growing over it, and the under-
brush is so thick that it was difficult to obtain accurate measurements;
in fact, there is hardly a stick of timber amiss over the ruins. ' '
Near this work is a plain circle, 150 feet in diameter, which lies in
a cultivated field and is fast being obliterated. Southeast of this circle
is an oblong work, similar to the one above described by the state
geologist. Its longest diameter is 106 feat and the distance across the
other way is forty-eight feet at each end, but somewhat less in the
center, or constricted part. The wall is about two feet high and the
ditch on the inside is fifteen feet in width. At the southeastern end
is a gateway fifteen feet wide. This portion is well preserved, but the
western part lies in the open field and the plow has almost leveled the
walls. In these works the Mound Builders, whoever they were, or at
whatever time they inhabited the land, have left their indelible impress
upon Madison county. The architects have gone, but the building
remains. Who built it, or for what purpose it was erected, will doubt-
less remain for generations to come largely a matter of speculation and
conjecture.
At the time the Western Hemisphere was first visited by Europeans,
the continent of North America was inhabited by several groups or
families of Indians, each of which was distinguished by certain charac-
teristics and occupied a well defined territory. In the north were the
Eskimo, a people who has never played any conspicuous part in history.
South of them and west of the Hudson bay were the Athapascans,
scattered over a wide expanse of territory. The Algonquian group
occupied a great triangle, roughly bounded by the Atlantic coast on the
east, a line drawn from the most northern poitit of Labrador in a
southwesterly direction to the Rocky mountains, and a second line from
there to the Pamlico sound, on the coast of North Carolina. South of
the Algonquian and east of the Mississippi river was the Muskhogean
family, including the Creeks, Choctaws, etc. Directly west of this group,
across the Mississippi, were the Caddoan tribes. The hardy, restless
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 17
Siouan tribes occupied the Missouri vallej', and in the southwestern
part of what is now the United States was the Shoshonean group.
Along the St. Lawrence river and the shores of Lake Ontario and
Lake Erie, in the very heart of the Algonquian country, were the
brave, warlike Iroquoian tribes, who were probably the most intel-
lectual of all the North American Indians.
Of all these families, the Algonquian was the most numerous, inhab-
ited the largest scope of country, and has been the most important in
the history of the nation. This group consisted of several hundred
tribes, the most prominent of which were the Miami, Pottawatomi,
Delaware, Shawnee, Ojibwa and Ottawa. Among the Iroquois the
principal tribes were the Oneida, Onondaga, Seneca, Mohawk and
Cayuga. The Algonquian invasion of Iroquois territory led to a con-
federacy being formed by these tribes, which became known as the
"Five Nations," and which was a powerful factor in most of the early
treaties made between the Indians and whites. Subsequently the Tus-
caroras, another Iroquoian tribe, were taken into the arrangement and
the confederacy then took the name of the ' ' Six Nations. ' '
The Big IMound at Mounds P.\rk
( Courtesy, Herland Publishing Co. )
When the first white settlements were made in Indiana, the region
now comprising the state was inhabited by at least seven different tribes
of Indians. The Pottawatomies occupied the entire northern part of
the state ; the Miamis, or Twightwees, as they were sometimes called,
dwelt along the St. Joseph and St. Mary's rivers; along the Wabash
were the Weas, their principal village being near the present city of
Lafayette ; east of the Wabash and north of the Ohio lay the country
of the Piankeshaws, extending eastward to what is now Lawrence
county and northward to Vigo; the Wyandots occupied the present
counties of Harrison, Crawford, Spencer, Perry, Dubois and Orange;
east of them were the Shawnees, their country extending eastward into
Ohio and northward to Rush and Fayette counties, while between the
districts inhabited by the Shawnees and the Miamis were the Delawares,
who occupied the present county of Madison.
The Miamis were at one time the most powerful tribe in the West
and when the French traders first visited the lake region were in com-
Vol. \—->
18 HISTORY OF JIADISOX COUNTY
plete control. They had been moving eastward, when they were met
and driven back by the Iroquois, after which they settled in Ohio. One
of their leading chiefs, Little Turtle, once said: "My forefather
kindled the first fire at Detroit ; thence he extended his lines to the
headwaters of the Scioto ; thence to its mouth ; thence down the Ohio
river to the mouth of the Wabash, and from there to Chicago over Lake
Michigan. These are the boundaries within which the prints of my
ancestors' houses are everywhere to be seen."
At some time in the distant past — the exact date is not certain —
the Miamis, with their kindred tribes, because of their great power and
influence, the wide extent of their domain and their aggressiveness,
were known as the ''Miami Confederacy." About tlie middle of the
eighteenth century this confederacy numbered about 1,200 warriors,
though, according to tribal traditions, it was able to muster at an
earlier period a much more formidable force.
Of the Indian tribes above mentioned, the Pottawatomies were prob-
ably the strongest at the time the white man began coming into the
state, the Shawnees were unquestionably the fiercest and most warlike,
and the Delawares claimed to be the oldest. According to their tradi-
tions they once possessed all the western portion of North America,
when they were known as the Lenni Lenape, w'hich in their language
means "men." As they traveled eastward they were met by the
Iroquois, with whom they formed an alliance. The combination of these
two powerful tribes enabled them to overcome all the smaller and
weaker tribes east of the Mississippi, and in time thej' laid claim to
all the territory between the Great River and the Atlantic coast. This
vast region they divided, the Delawares taking the countrj- Ijdng between
the Hudson and Potomac rivers and the Iroquois assuming dominion
over the remainder. It was from the Delawares that William Penn
purchased the province of Pennsylvania. A recent writer on this sub-
ject says: "In the early days of their known history', especially after
their loss of power and caste, the oft-repeated remembrance of their
former high position among the numerous tribes occup.\'ing the lake
region, was a source of proud satisfaction. The relation connecting them
with the period of their prosperity was regarded as a golden epoch in
their tribal history. It was then that the bravery of their warriors,
the wisdom of their counsellors and the brilliancy of their warlike
exploits gave them a prestige worthy to be recounted, in after years,
among the traditions of their fathers. Then they were allied with the
Iroquois, and retained their ancient character for prowess and enter-
prise; To recall these was pleasant. W^hen, however, the Five Nations
confederated at Onondaga, and were no longer engaged in petty quar-
rels among themselves, the former pleasant relations ceased, and the
over-confident Delawares were made to feel the effect of the concentrated
power and consequent arrogance of their ancient allies. The concen-
trated energies of the Five Nations, thirsting for prominence among the
North American tribes, soon set them about acquiring and maintaining
the supremacy. To do this, aggressions were the order and ultimate
conquest the end of the movements thus directed. So the Delawares
lost their native independence in the rise of Iroquois power and became
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 19
a subordinate nation, denied tlie enjoyment oi" their ancient rights and
territory. ' '
A Delaware tradition says that the Iroquois "made them women"
through deceit by inducing them to accept a subordinate position in
order to keep peace with the whites. The event was brought about by
what is known in historj' as the "walking purchase," whereby they
were ousted from a half a million acres of their lands in the forks of the
Delaware, above Easton. Penn.sylvania. The Delawares protested and
the IrO(iuois compelled them to retire to the Susquehanna river. This
was the beginning of their downfall. The Delawares were always at
peace with the whites luitil the French and Indian war, when some of
them took uj) arms against the English settlers. At the conclusion of
that contest some of the tribe went to Ohio, where they found a refuge
among the Shawnees. The white men continued to encroach upon the
Indian lands and in 1768 the Delawares were given permission to settle
among the Miamis and Piankeshaws, between the White and Ohio
rivers, in Indiana. The main body of the tribe established themselves
on the Whitewater river, where they tried -to rekindle the national
council fire under the head chief, Tedpachxit, but in vain. The glory of
the once proud tribe had departed.
The Delawares were divided into three subtribes or elans — the Unami,
or Turtle; the Unalachto, or Turkey; and the Minsi, or Wolf, the ani-
mals having been the emblematic totems of the separate divisions bear-
ing their names. The Minsi became corrupted into ilunsee, sometimes
called the "Christian Indians." After the treaty of 1768, t^iey founded
the village of Gnadenhutten, on the ^Muskingum river.
There is one incident in connection with the history of the Delaware
Indians that has never been sufficientlj' emphasized by historians, and
that is the fact that the celebrated Pontiac received his inspiration for
his great conspiracy through the preaching of a Delaware prophet.
Heckewelder, who was a missionary among the Delawares for fifty years,
says: "In the year 1762 there was a famous preacher of the Delaware
nation' who resided at Cayahaga, near Lake Erie, and traveled about
the country among the Indians endeavoring to persuade them that he
had been appointed by ^he Great Spirit to instruct them in those
things that were agreeable to him, and point out them the offenses by
which they had drawn his displeasure on themselves, and the means
by which they might recover his favour for the future. He had drawn,
as he pretended, by the direction of the Great Spirit, a kind of map
on a piece of deerskin, somewhat dressed like parchment, which he
called ' The Great Book or Writing. ' This, he said, he had been ordered
to show to the Indians, that they might see the situation in which the
Mannitto had originally placed them, the misery which they had brought
upon themselves by neglecting their duty, and the only way that was
now left to regain what they had lost. This map he held up before
him while preaching, frequently pointing to particular marks and spots
upon it, and giving explanations as he went along."
The map or chart was about fifteen inches square, in the. center of
which was drawn a square about eight inches on each side, representing
the "heavenly regions," or place designed by the Great Spirit for Indian
20 HISTORY OF ]\IADISO\ COUNTY
habitation in a future life. At the lower right hand corner of this
square was an opening or avenue, which he declared to be in possession
of the white men, through the shortcomings of the Indians, while another
opening, at the upper corner was for the Indians, but was beset by
many dangers and obstacles, an evil spirit guarding the entrance, etc.
Outside of the square represented a country given to the tribe, in which
they had the privilege to hunt, fish and dwell during this life. The inner
square, he declared, had been lost through neglect and disobedience;
by not making sufificient sacritices to the Great Spirit; by looking with
favor upon a people of a different color and allowing them to occupy
part of the hunting grounds, etc. In order to regain that which had
been lost, he advised that the tribe must desist from drunkenness, wars
among people of their own color and polygamy ; give up the medicine
song and the customs they had adopted since the coming of the white
people.
"Then," he would exclaim with great fervor and enthusiasm, "will
the Great Spirit give success to our arms ; then he will give us strength
to conquer our enemies, to drive them from our hunting grounds, and to
recover the passage to the heavenly regions which they have taken
from us."
In order to impress his teaching upon his tribesmen, and to refresh
the memory, he advised every family to have a copy of the map or
Great Book, which he offered to make for them for one buckskin or two
doeskins. "In some of those maps," says Heckewelder, "the figure of
a deer or turkey, or both, was placed in the heavenly regions, and also in
the dreary region of the evil spirit. The former, however, appeared fat
and plump, while the latter seemed to have nothing but skin and bones."
The sermons and exhortations of the prophet produced a religious
ferment, which soon spread to other tribes, but without concrete effect
until the master mind of Pontiac, the celebrated Ottawa chief, who had
commanded some of his people at the defeat of General Braddock in
1755, conceived the idea of taking advantage of the spirit of unrest and
forming a confederation of all the tribes. The story of Pontiac 's war
is familiar to every reader of American history, but it may not be
generally known that the preaching of the Delaware prophet prepared
the minds of the red men to receive his suggestions, if not to furnish
Pontiac himself with the idea of a general uprising for the expulsion
of the hated palefaces.
Among the great men of the Delawares at various periods in their
history, the names of Tamenend, Tedpachxit, Koguethagechton, Hopocan,
Buckongahelas, Captain Killbuck, Kikthawenund and James Nanticoke
deserve more than passing mention.
Tamenend, one of the chieftains while the tribe occupied the country
in the vicinity of Philadelphia, is considered by many as the foremost
man of the Delaware nation at any period. He was a statesman as
well as a warrior, distinguished in public life for his talents and patriot-
ism, and in private life for his virtues. His tribesmen claimed that he
was favored by the Great Spirit. Many of his contemporary white
friends held him in high esteem and the first day of May was marked
in their calendars as "The Festival of Tamenend." That day was
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 21
given over to festivities and the society of Saint Tammany was named
in his honor.
Tedpachxit has already been mentioned as the head chief who in
1768 endeavored to rehabilitate his tribe with some of its former great-
ness. Little has been written concerning him, but what has been written
shows that he was "wise in counsel, brave in battle, and always alert to
promote the welfare of his people."
Koguethagechton, whose English name was Captain White Eyes,
was the head chief of the Turtle branch of the Delawares at the begin-
ning of the Revolution and resided in Ohio. Upon the death of Neta-
watwees, in 1776, he became the chief sachem of the Delaware nation.
In this capacity he favored the maintenance of missions among his
people and a neutral policy while the colonists were engaged in their
struggle for independence. This policy was opposed by some of the
younger chiefs and warriors, but the old sachem maintained his position
and in the council at Pittsburgh boldly defied some of the Seneca chiefs
who were anxious to bring about an alliance between the British and the
Delawares. White Eyes died at Philadelphia in 1780, and is said to
have been over 100 years of age.
Hopocan, which, according to Heckewelder, means "a tobacco pipe,"
was generally called Captain Pipe. In his younger days he was one
of those who opposed the peace policy of Captain White Eyes and was
inclined to favor the British cause during the Revolution. When the
commandant of the British post at Detroit ordered the expulsion of the
Moravian missionaries. Captain Pipe and his followers joined the Half-
King to aid in enforcing the order. In a grand council at Detroit the
missionaries established their innocence and Pipe was man enough to
acknowledge his error in persecuting them. After this he took very
little part in public affairs. His death occurred about 1818.
Buckongahelas rose from the ranks, so to speak, to be the head war
chief of the Delawares. Heckewelder mentions him as having been at
Tuscarawas as early as 1762, and nineteen years after that he visited
the Christian Indians in Ohio. He is described as "fearless, frank
and magnanimous," and refused to obey the orders of Captain Pipe
when the latter directed that none of the Indians who had been under
the instruction of the Moravian missionaries should be permitted to
leave the territory. He was a friend to the British when they treated
him to his liking" but after General Wayne's great victory in 1794 he
renounced all allegiance to the English and became the steadfast friend
of the United States. He died in 1804 and Dawson says that when
on his deathbed he advised his people to desert the cause of the British
and rely on the friendship of the United States government.
Captain Killbuck, whose Indian name was Kelelamand, or the Big
Cat, was the son of a chief of the same name. He accepted the office of
chief during the minority of the regular heir to the position. Through
the intrigues of Captain Pipe he was forced to abandon the council
house and place himself under the protection of the white men near
Pittsburgh. Subsequently he proved to be a faithful friend to those
who shielded him and rendered them every service in his power. This
so incensed his Indian enemies that they ordered him to be shot on
22 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sight. The latter years of his life Avere passed under the protection
of the Christian Indians, and it is said he never wandered far from
home for fear his enemies would meet and kill him. He died in January,
1811. A creek in Madison county still bears his name.
Kikthawenund (Captain Anderson) was one of the best known and
most influential chiefs of the Delawares in Indiana. His village stood
where the city of Anderson is now located, and which bears the old
chief tain 's ^English name. His home was at the foot of the hill, not far
from where Norton's brewery now stands. One account says his resi-
dence was a two-story, double cabin, one side of which was occupied
by him and his family- aud the other by his son. Chief Anderson was
always friendly to the whites. When Tecumseh visited him for the
purpose of securing him and his tribe as allies of the British in the
War of 1812, the old Delaware firmly refused to take any part against
his white friends and continued the stanch friend of the Americans.
Doubtless one reason for his attitude in this regard was the marriage
of his daughter, Oneahj'e, or Dancing Feather, to Charles Stanley, one
of the pioneer settlers. When the Delawares departed in the fall of
1821, for their new home beyond the Mississippi, Oneahj'e remained
behind with her white husband. There are various accounts concerning
the death of Kikthawenund. One tradition says he died before the
exodus of 1821 and was buried in the burial ground of his tribe. An-
other says he met his death when the pony he was riding plunged over
a high bluff on the White river, a short distance above Anderson. Still
another is to the effect that he, with a few followers, removed to Ohio
and died there. There is also a legend thaj twenty years after his
departure for the far West he returned to visit his daughter, was
stricken with fever and died on the third day after his arrival in the
town of Anderson. The same story states that fifty years later, when
excavating for the Anderson hotel, on North Meridian street, the bones
of the old chief were unearthed, but were reburied under the founda-
tions of the building. He was active in the negotiations that led to
the treaty of St. Mary's in 1818 and was one of its signers.
James Nantieoke was also one of the signers of the treaty of St.
Mary's. His village was situated not far from Anderson and bore the
name of "Our town," which was conferred upon it by Nantieoke 's
squaw, who is said to have been "a very l>eautiful woman and at one
time maintained the relation of 'chief ess' to her tribe."
Peekeetelemund (Thomas Adams) was a chief of some prominence
among the Delawares and had a village at some point on the White
river, but its exact location is now uncertain.
Another Delaware chief and warrior was Captain John Green, who
was part French. He is described as a man of superior intelligence,
tall and weighing about 240 pounds. He was fond of wearing his war
emblems and displaying them on every occasion. His wigwam stood
near what is now the west end of Tenth street, in the city of Anderson,
and Green's branch, which winds through the western part of the city,
bears his name. Whfen the first white men came to Madison county
they could discern near Green's wigwam traces of the pathway where
prisoners, brought before him for trial, were made to run the gauntlet.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 23
There is a fairly well authenticated account to the effect that Captain
Green was an idolater. He had a large slab of wood fashioned to repre-
sent a human face, which was elevated to a height of some twelve or
fifteen feet above the ground upon a tree, and to this image he paid
his devotions. Judge John Davis managed to secure possession of this
idol and for a time kept it in one of the rooms of the old courthouse.
Some one, probably proceeding upon the theory that the "last thief is
the best owner," extracted it from its hiding place and its ultimate fate
is not known. Some suppose that this image was destroyed by fire
among other relics kept in the old courthouse, which was burned Dee.
10, 1880.
]\Iiss Nellie Lovett, daughter of John W, Lovett, of Anderson, now
Mrs. Earle Reeves, of Chicago, some j'cars ago wrote a beautiful story,
or legend, of Chief Anderson, in which she told of the finding of his
skeleton under the Anderson Hotel. The legend closes with the follow-
ing, which is certainly pretty, if it is not true:
"It is said that on the night of the 21st day of September, 1891,
the seventieth anniversary of the exodus of the Delaware, just as the
clock in the tower' of the courthouse struck the hour of midnight, the
ghostly form of an Indian, clad, in the full habiliments of a Delaware
chieftain, might have been seen -standing erect on the highest crest of
the unfinished building (the Anderson Hotel), with folded arms, looking
towards the east, just as the chieftain had stood on the morning of his
departure, seventy years before. It remained thus for a moment and
faded out in a cloud of mist."
CHAPTER III
THE PERIOD OP PREPARATION
Early Explorations in America — Conflicting Claims of England,
France and Spain — French Posts in the Interior — French and
Indian War — Pontiac's Conspiracy — English in Possession of
Indiana — The Revolution — George Rogers Clark's Conquest of
the Northwest — The Northwest Territory — Campaigns op St.
Clair and Wayne — Treaty of Greenville — Indiana Territory Or-
ganized— Indian Treaties — Tenskwatawa and Tecumseh — Battle
of Tippecanoe — War of 1812 — Burning of the Delaware Villages
ON the White River — Indiana Admitted Into the Union — Treaty
op St. Mary's — Seat op Government.
Although Madison county, as a separate political division, was not
called into existence until 1823, the events leading up to its establish-
ment had their beginning more than a century and a half prior to that
time. It is therefore pertinent to notice the work of the early explorers,
particularly those who visited Indiana. Soon after the discovery of
America by Columbus, in 1492, three European nations were busy in
their attempts to establish claims to territory in the New World. Spain
first laid claim to the peninsula of Florida, whence expeditions were sent
into the interior ; the English based their claims to the discoveries made
by the Cabots, farther northward along the Atlantic coast; and the
French claimed Canada through the expeditions of Jacques Cartier in
1534-35.
Spain planted a colony in Florida in 1565 ; the French settled Port
Royal, Nova Scotia, in 1605 ; the English colony at Jamestown, Virginia,
was established in 1607, and Quebec was founded by the French in 1608.
The French then extended their settlements up the St. Lawrence river
and along the shores of Lakes Ontario and Erie, and Jesuit mission-
aries and fur traders pushed on farther west, into the heart of the
Indian country. A mission was established near Green Bay, Wisconsin,
in 1660, by Father ]\Iesnard. In that year Father Claude Allouez made
his first pilgrimage into the interior. Two years later he returned to
Quebec, where he urged that permanent missions be established among
the Indians and that colonies of French immigrants accompany the
missions. Upon his second journey into the western wilds he was
accompanied by the missionaries, Claude Dablon and James Marquette.
In 1671 Father Marquette founded the Huron mission at Point St.
Ignace, and the next year the country south of the missior was visited
by Allouez and Dablon. In their explorations they visiter the Indian
24
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 25
tribes living near the head of Lake Michigan and are supposed to have
touched that portion of Indiana lying north of the Kankakee river. They
were probably the first white men to set foot upon Indiana soil, though
some writers maintain that Robert Cavalier, Sieur de la Salle, crossed
the northern part of the state on the occasion of his first expedition
to the Mississippi river in 1669.
In 1673 JMarquette and Joliet crossed over from Mackinaw to the
Mississippi river, which they descended until they came to an Indian
village called Akamsea, near the mouth of the Arkansas river, when
they returned to Canada. In 1679 Port Miami was built at the mouth
of the St. Joseph river of Lake Michigan (then called the river Miamis)
by La Salle, who about three years later succeeded in descending the
Mississippi to its mouth, where on April 9, 1682, he claimed all the
territory drained by the great river and its tributaries for France, giv-
ing to it the name of Louisiana, in honor of the French king. This
claim included the present state of Indiana.
Spain claimed the interior of the continent on account of the dis-
coveries of Ponce de Leon and Hernando de Soto, the English laid
claim to the same region on account of ithe royal grants of land ' ' extend-
ing westward to the South Sea," but the French ignored the claims
of both nations and began the -work of building a line of posts through
the Mississippi valley to connect their Canadian settlements with those
near the mouth of the great river. There is a vague account of a French
trading post having been established in 1672 where the city of Fort
Wayne now stands. This may be true, but is probably an error, as the
old maps of 1684 show no posts within the present limits of Indiana.
In July, 1701, Cadillac founded the post of Detroit and the next year
Sieur Juehereau and the missionary Mermet made an attempt to estab-
lish- a post near the mouth of the Ohio river. Some writers say this
post was located upon the site now occupied by the city of Vincennes.
Dillon, in his "History of Indiana," says: ,"It is probable that before
the year 1719, temporary trading posts were erected at the sites of
Port Wayne, Ouiatenon and Vincennes. These posts had, it is believed,
been often visited by tradere before the year 1700."
Ouiatenon was located' on the Wabash river, eighteen miles below
the mouth of the Tippecanoe river, not far from the present city of
Lafayette. Says Smith: "The best record is that this was the first
post established in what is now Indiana by the French." He fixes
the date of its establishment as 1720 and says that no effort was made
to plant a colony there.
The conflicting claims of the English and French culminated in
what is known in history as the French and Indian war. In 1759 Quebec
was taken by the British forces and the following year the French
governor of Canada surrendered all the posts in the interior. Soon
afterward Major Rogers, an English officer, took possession of Detroit
and sent detachments to the post at the junction of the St. Joseph and
St. Mary's rivers (Fort Wayne), and to Ouiatenon. By the treaty of
Paris, February 10, 1763, all that part of Louisiana east of the Missis-
sippi river was ceded to Great Britain and Indiana became subject to
English domination.
26 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
In April, 1763, a great council of Indians was held near Detroit, at
which the wily Ottawa chief, Pontiae, "as high priest and keeper of
the faith," revealed to his fellow chiefs the will of the Great Master
of Life, as expounded by the Delaware prophet, and called upon them
to qnite with him in a grand movement for the recovery of their hunting
grounds and the preservation of their national life. Along the Atlantic
coast the white man was in undisputed control, but the Ohio valley
and the region about the Great Lakes were still in the hands of the
Indians. Between these two sections the Alleghenj' mountains formed
a natural boundary and behind this barrier Pontiae determined to
assert the red man's supremacy. The recent defeat of the French taught
him that he could expect nothing from them in the way of assistance,
but, relying upon and encouraged by the loyalty of his own race, when
informed that the British were coming to take possession of the posts
surrendered by the French, he sent back the defiant message : " I stand
in the way."
Pontiae 's war ended as all such contests usually do, when an inferior
race opposes the onward march of a superior one, and the subjection
of the Indians was rendered complete by Colonel Bouquet's march into
the interior of Ohio, forcing the natives to enter into treaties to keep
the peace. Pontiae "s warriors captured the posts at Fort Wayne and
Ouiatenon, but the post at Vincennes, which had not yet been turned
over to the English, but was still occupied by a French garrison under
command of St. Ange, was not molested. This post was turned over by
St. Ange on October 10, 1765, to Captain Sterling, who immediately
issued a proclamation, prepared by General Gage, formally taking pos-
session of the territory ceded by the Paris treatj'.
From that time until the opening of the Revolution, the English
established few posts in their new possessions, though those at Fort
Miami (Wayne), Ouiatenon and Vincennes were strengthened and at
the beginning of the Revolutionary war were occupied by small garri-
sons, the British depending largely upon their Indian allies to prevent
the colonists from encroaching upon their lands in the Ohio valley.
In December, 1777, General George Rogers Clark appeared before
the Virginia legislature with a plan to capture the English posts in the
northwest — Detroit, Kaskaskia and Vincennes, especially. Governor
Patrick Henry approved Clark's plan and the legislature appropriated
£1,200 to defray the expenses of the campaign. Early in the spring of
1778 four companies of infantry, commanded by Captains Joseph Bow-
man, Leonard Helm, John Montgomery and William Harrod. rendez-
voused at Corn island, in the Ohio river opposite Louisville. On June 24,
1778, the forward movement was begun, the little army drifting down
the river to Fort Massac, where the boats were concealed and the march
overland toward Kaskaskia was commenced. Kaskaskia was captured
without resistance on July 4th and Clark sent Captain Bowman to
reduce the post at Cahokia, near the present city of East St. Louis,
which was successfully accomplished.
While at Kaskaskia, Clark learned that Father Gibault, a French
priest, was favorable to the American cause and sent for him to enlist
his aid in the capture of Vincennes. Father Gibault admitted his loyalty
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 27
to the American. side, but on account of his calling suggested that Dr.
Lafonte, whom he knew to be both capable and reliable, could conduct
the negotiations for the surrender of the post better than himself, though
he promised to direct the affair, provided it could be done without expos-
ing himself. Accordinglj', Dr. Lafonte explained to the people of
\'ineennes that they could break the yoke of British domination by
taking the oatli of allegiance to the colonies, which they cheerfully did,
and Captain Helm Avas sent to take command of the post.
In October, 1778, the Virginia assembly passed an act providing
that all the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia "who are already
settled, or shall hereafter settle, on the northwestern side of the River
Ohio, shall be included in a distinct county, which shall be called Illi-
nois county, ' ' etc. But before the provisions of this act could be applied
to the newly conquered territorj', Henry Hamilton, the British lieu-
tenant-governor of Detroit, with thirty regulars, fifty volunteers and
four hundred Indians started down the Wabash to reinforce the posts.
On December 15, 1778, he took possession of the fort at Vincennes, the
American garrison at that time consisting of Captain Helm and one
man, who refused to surrender until promised the honors of war. The
French citizens were disarmed and a large force of hostile Indians began
to gather near the fort.
Clark was now in a perilous position. His force was weaker than
when he set out on his expedition and part of his forces must be used
to garrison the posts already captured. It -was the dead of winter, sup-
plies were scarce and there were no roads over which he could move
against Vincennes. Notwithstanding all these difficulties, when he
learned late in January, 1779, that Hamilton had weakened his garrison
by sending Indians against the frontier settlements, he determined to
attack the post. Hamilton's object was to collect a large body of Indians
and as soon as spring opened drive out the Americans, hence prompt-
ness on the part of Clark was imperative. He therefore hurried for-
ward, overcoming all obstacles, his men frequentl.v wading through
ci-eeks and swamps where the water came up to their waists, and on the
morning of February 18, 1779, was close enough to hear the sunrise
gun at the fort. Three days more were passed in the swamps, but at
daybreak on the 21st his little army was ferried across the Wabash in
two canoes. Soon after that a hunter from the fort M-as captured and
from him Clark learned that Hamilton had but about eighty men in
the fort. He then prepared and sent to the village the following procla-
mation :
"To the Inhabitants of Post Vincennes: —
' ' Gentlemen : Being now within two miles of your village with my
army, determined to take your fort this night, and not being willing to
surprise you, I take this method to request such of you as are true
citizens, and willing to enjoy the liberty I bring you, to remain still in
your houses: — and those, if any there be, that are friends to the king,
will instantly repair to the fort and join the hair-buyer general and
fight like men. And if any such as do not go to the fort shall be dis-
covered afterward, they may depend on severe punishment. On the
contrarv, those who are true friends to liberty may depend on being
28 HISTORY OF :MADIS0X COUNTY
well treated; and I once more request them to keep out of the streets.
For every one I find in arms on my arrival, I shall treat him as an
enemy. ' '
The allusion to Hamilton as "the hair-buyer general" has reference
to that ofiScer's attempt to incite the Indians to greater cruelty by
placing a price upon American scalps. Clark says that he had various
ideas on the supposed results of his letter, or proclamation. He watched
the messenger enter the village and saw that his arrival there created
some stir, but was unable to learn the effects of his communication. A
short time before sunset he marched his men out into view. In his
report of his movements on this occasion he says: "In leaving the
covert that we were in, we marched and countermarched in such a
manner that we appeared numerous." Clark had about a dozen stands
of colors, which were now fastened to long poles and carried so that
they could be seen above the ridge behind which his "handful of men"
were performing their maneuvers, thus creating the impression that he
had several regiments of troops. To add to this impression, the several
horses, that had been captured from duck-hunters near the village, w-ere
ridden by the officers in all directions, apparently carrying orders from
the commanding general to his subordinates. These evolutions were
kept up until dark, when Clark moved out and took a position in the
rear of the town. Lieutenant Bayley, with fourteen men, was ordered
to open fire on the fort. One man in the garrison was killed in the
first volley. Some of the citizens came out and joined the besiegers
and the fort was surrounded. The siege was kept up until about nine
o'clock on the morning of the 24th, when Clark demanded a surrender,
with all stores, etc., and sent the following message to Hamilton: "If
I am obliged to storm, you may depend on such treatment as is justly
due a murderer. Beware of destroying stores of any kind, or any
papers or letters that are in your possession — for, by heavens! if you
do, there shall be no mercy shown you."
To this message Hamilton replied that he was "not to be awed into
doing anything unworthy of a British soldier," and the firing on the
fort was renewed. Most of Clark's men were unerring marksmen and
their bullets found their way through the cracks with deadly effect.
Some of the soldiers begged permission to storm the fort, but Clark
felt that it was much safer to continue his present tactics of harassing
the enemy until he was ready to surrender. After a short time a flag
of truce was displayed and the British officer asked for an armistice of
three days. He also invited Clark to come into the fort for a parley,
but the American general was "too old a bird to be caught with chaff"
and sent word back that he would meet Hamilton at the church, about
eighty yards from the fort. The British officer, accompanied by Cap-
tain Helm, who was a captive, came out to the church and pressed his
request for a truce of three days. Fearing the return of some of Ham-
ilton's Indians, Clark denied the request and informed Hamilton that
the only terms he could offer was "Surrender at discretion." The fort,
with all its stores and munitions of war, was then turned over to the
Americans and a few days later a detachment sent out by Clark cap-
tured about $50,000 worth of goods coming down the Wabash to the
fort.
HISTORY OP^ JIADISOX COUNTY 29
Througli the conquest of the northwest by General Clark, what is
now Indiana became subject to the colony of Virginia and a tide of
emigration followed. On January 2, 1781, the general assembly of
Virginia passed a resolution to the effect that, on certain conditions,
the colony would cede to Congress its claim to the territory northwest
of the Ohio river. But the Revolutionary war was then in progress and
Congress took no action on the subject. On January 20, 1783, an
armistice was agreed upon and proclaimed by Congress on the 11th of
the following April. The treaty of Paris was concluded on September
3, 1783, and ten days later Congress agreed to accept the cession tendered
by the Virginia legislature more than two years before. On December
20, 1783, the assembly of Virginia passed a resolution authorizing their
delegates in Congress to convey to the United States the "title and
claim of Virginia to the lands northwest of the river Ohio." The ces-
sion was made on Alarch 1, 1784, and the present State of Indiana
thereby became territory of the United States.
On Jlay 20, 1785, Congress passed "An ordinance for ascertaining
the mode of disposing of lands in western territory," and on June 15,
1785, a proclamation was issued forbidding settlements northwest of the
Ohio until the lands were surveyed. This ordinance and proclamation
conveyed to the Indians the idea that their lands were to be taken for
white settlers and they grew restless. By treaties in 1768, between
the British colonial officials on one side and the chiefs of the Five Na-
tions and Cherokee on the other, the Ohio and Kanawha rivers were
designated as the boundary between the Indians and the whites, the
former relinquishing all claims to their lands along the Atlantic coast
and in the Delaware and Susquehanna vallej^s, and were confirmed in
their possession of the country lying west of the Allegheny mountains.
The Indians claimed that the acts of Congress relating to the territory
northwest of the Ohio were in violation of the treaties of 1768 — which
was true — but during the Revolution most of the tribes in that region
had acted in accord with the British, and the new government of the
United States repudiated the treaties made by the British provincial
authorities. Late in the summer of 1786 some of the tribes grew so
threatening in their demonstrations that Clark marched against the
Indians on the Wabash and Logan against the Shawnees on the Big
Miami river, and in October a garrison was established at Vincennes.
On July 13, 1787, Congress passed an act or ordinance "for the
government of the territory of the United States northwest of the river
Ohio," and on October 5th General Arthur St. Clair was elected by
Congress as governor of the Northwest Territory. Again the Indians
showed signs of becoming troublesome and on January 9, 1789, Gen-
eral St. Clair made a treaty of peace with some of the leading tribes at
Fort Harmar, on the Muskingum river. Among the Delaware chiefs
that signed this treaty was Captain Pipe, either the one who afterward
lived in Madison county or an immediate ancestor. This treaty was
not kept by the Indians and in the fall of 1791 St. Clair organized an
expedition against the tribes in northwestern Ohio and about the head-
waters of the Wabash. On November 4, 1791, St. Clair's army was
defeated and almost annihilated by the Indians under command of the
30 HISTORY OF :\IADISOX COUNTY
Miami chief Meshekunnoghquoh, or Little Turtle. Soon after his de-
feat, St. Clair resigned his commission as major-general and Antliony
Wayne was appointed to succeed him. Wayne spent the time from tiie
spring of 1792 to August, 1793, in recruiting and e(iuipping an army
for a campaign into the Indian country. In the meantime the govern-
ment appointed Benjamin Lincoln, Beverly Randolph and Timothy
Pickering commissioners to negotiate treaties with the Indians. Coun-
cils were held at various places with the chiefs of the dissatisfied tribes,
' but nothing was accomplished.
In the spring of 1794 Wayne took the field against the hostile tribes
and on the 20th of August won a decisive victor}' at the battle of
Fallen Timbers. On September 17, 1794, he halted his army at the
site of the deserted Miami village, at the junction of the St. Joseph
and St. Mary's rivers, and the next day selected a location for "Fort
Wayne," which was completed on the 22d of October. From this
point he sent messengers to the Indian chiefs, inviting them to visit
Fort Greenville for the purpose of entering into a new treaty. The
season was so far advanced, however, that nothing was done until the
following summer. The greater part of the months of June and July,
1795, were spent in holding councils with the various tribes and on
August 3, 1795, was concluded the treaty of Greenville, one of the
most important Indian treaties in the history of Indiana and Ohio.
That treaty was signed bj' eighty-nine chiefs, distributed among the
several tribes as follows: 24 Pottawatomies, 16 Delawares, 10 Wyan-
dots, 9 Shawnees, 11 Chippewas, 3 ^liamis, 7 Ottawas, 3 Eel Rivei-s,
3 Weas and 3 Kaskaskias. Among the Delawares- who signed was
Kikthawenund, or Anderson, after whom the city of Anderson was
named, and one of the Miami chiefs was Little Turtle, who had so
signally defeated General St. Clair nearly four years before. Some
of the chiefs also represented the Kickapoos and Piankeshaws, so that
the treaty bound practically all the Indians in Ohio and Indiana to
terms of peace.
By the Greenville treaty the United States was granted several
small tracts of land for militarv stations, two of which — Fort Wayne
and Vincennes — were in Indiana. The United States government was
further given the right to build or open roads through the Indian
country, one of . which ran from Fort Wa^Tie to the Wabash river
and down that stream to the Ohio. For these concessions the United
States gave the Indians goods to the value of .$20,000 and an annuity
of $9,500, in goods, forever. This annuity was to be distributed among
the tribes in the following manner : The Delawares, Pottawatomies,
Shawnees, Wyandots, ]\Iiamis, Ottawas and Chippewas, .$1,000 each;
the Kickapoos, Weas, Piankeshaws, Eel Rivers and Kaskaskias, $500
each. The United States further agreed to relinquish claim to all
other Indian lands north of the Ohio, east of the Mississippi and south
of the Great Lakes, ceded by Great Britain in the treaty of 1783.
By an act of Congress, approved May 7, 1800, the Northwest Ter-
ritory was divided into three territories — Ohio, Indiana and Illinois —
and on the 13th of the same month General William Henry Harrison
was appointed governor of the Territory of Indiana. At the same
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 31
time John Gibson, of Pennsylvania, was appointed territorial secretary.
Although the United States, by the treaty of Greenville, agreed to
allow the Indians to remain in peaceable possession of their lands
north of the Ohio, before a decade liad passed the white man began to
look with longing eyes at the rich valleys and prairies of Indiana and
pressure was brought to bear upon the government to negotiate a treaty
whereby these lands could be acquired and opened to settlement. Ac-
cordingly, a general council of Indians was called to meet at Fort
Wayne on June 7, 1803. The most important acts of the council were
the recognition of the right of the Delawares to certain lands lying
between the Ohio and the Wabash rivers, the defining of the post
boundaries at Vineennes, and the cession of the post tract to the United
States bj' the Delawares. General Harrison was present at the council
and made the necessary preliminary arrangements for the treaty after-
ward held at Vineennes on August 18, 1804, by which the Delawares
"for the considerations hereinafter mentioned relinquish to the United
States forever, all their right and title to the tract of country which
lies between the Ohio and Wabash rivers and below the tract ceded by
the treaty of Fort Wa,yne, and the road leading from Vineennes to
the Falls of the Ohio.'"'
The most northern point of the tract ceded by this treaty is not
far from French Lick. For the cession the tribe was to receive an
annuity of .$300 for ten years "to be appropriated exclusively to the
purpose of ameliorating their condition and promoting their civiliza-
tion." To accomplish these ends it was agreed that "suitable persons
shall be employed at the expense of the United States to teach them
to make fences, cultivate the earth, and such of the domestic arts as
are adapted to their situation; and a further sum of $300 shall be
appropriated annually for five years to this object."
The Piankeshaws claimed the land and refused to recognize the title
of the Delawares to the region thus ceded. General Harrison met the
Piankeshaw chiefs at Vineennes on August 27, 1804, and concluded a
treaty by which the tribe relinquished title to the tract for an addi-
tional annuity of .$200 for five years.
Another treaty was concluded at Grouseland, near Vineennes, on
August 21, 180.5, between General Harrison and the chiefs of several
tribes, in which "The Pottawatomies, Miamis, Eel Ri\^r's and Weas
explicitly acknowledge the right of the Delawares to sell the tract of
land conveyed to the United States by the treaty of the 18th of August,
1804, which tract was given by the Piankeshaws to the Delawares,
about thirty-seven years ago." At the same time the Eel River and
Wea tribes agreed to "cede and relinquish to the United States forever,
all that tract of country which lies to the south of a line to be drawn
from the northeast corner of the tract ceded by the treaty of Fort
Wayne, so as to strike the general boundary line, running from a point
opposite to the mouth of the Kentucky river to Fort Recovery, at the
distance of fift.v miles from its commencement on the Ohio river."
The lands thus ceded include the present counties of Jefferson, Ripley,
Jennings, Jackson, Scott, Washington and Orange, and small portions
of some of the adjoining counties.
32
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Aboiit this time some of the Indian chiefs began to see, in the policy
of making treaties of cession, the loss of the lantls guaranteed to the
red men by the treaty of Greenville. They had been accustomed to
look upon Little Turtle as one of their wisest men, a leader whose
opinions were entitled to respect, but when he bowed to the inevitable
and joined in disposing of the lands of his people he was branded as
"an Indian with a white man's heart and a traitor to his race." In
November, 1805, a prophet arose among the Shawnees in the person of
Lalawethika, then about thirty years of age. He went into a trance, saw
the spirit world, and came back with a message from the Master of Life to
"let tire-water alone, abandon the white man's customs," etc. After his
vision he changed his name to Tenskwatawa (sometimes written Elsk-
watawa), wliich in the Shawnee tongue means "The Open Door." This
name was selected because he claimed that he was to open the way by
InDIVNS \ND PlONtER-.
which the Indians were to regain the lands of which they had been
dispossessed and the power they had lost. He took up his headquarters
at Greenville, but the Miamis were jealous of his influence and in order
to lessen his power among the braves of that tribe some of the chiefs
declared him to be an imposter. Says Moonc}':
"By some means he had learned that an eclipse of the sun was to
take place in the summer of 1806. As the time drew near, he called
about him the scoffers and boldly announced that on a certain day he
would prove to them his supernatural authority by causing the sun to
become dark. When the day and hour arrived and the earth at mid-
day was enveloped in the gloom of twilight, Tenskwatawa, standing in
the midst of the terrified Indians, pointed to the sky and cried: 'Did
I not speak the truth? See, the sun is dark!' "
Tenskwatawa then went a step farther in his claims to supernatural
power and asserted that he was a reincarnation of Manabozho, the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 33
great "first doer" of the Algonquians. He opposed the intermarriage
of Indian squaws with white men and accused the Christian Indians of
witchcraft. The Delaware chief, Tatebockoshe, through whose influence
the treaty of 1804 liad been brought about, was tomahawked as a wizard
on the accusation of the prophet, and the Indian missionary known as
"Joshua" was burned at the stake near the present town of Yorktown,
Delaware county, only a few miles east of Anderson. His followers
increased, but it soon became apparent that something more than proph-
ecj' and a display of supei-natural ability was uecessai-y to restore the
Indians to their birthright.
As Pontiac had taken advantage of the preaching of the Delaware
prophet, more than forty years before, to organize a conspiracy, Tecum-
seh (the Shooting Star), a brother of the prophet, now came forward
as a temporal leader and began the work of cementing the tribes
into a confederacy to resist the further encroachment of the white
man. Tecumseh and Tenskwatawa were sons of Pukeesheno, who was
killed at the battle of the Kanawha, in 1774, when the prophet was an
infant.
In the spring of 1801 a mission had been established among the
Delawares in what is now Madison county. This was broken up by
Tenskwatawa about 1806 or early in 1807 and some of the Delawares
espoused the cause of the Shawnee chieftain. A great many Indians
from the lakes came to visit the prophet and his brother in the spring
of 1808. The peaceable Delawares and the Miamis protested against
this incursion and to avoid an open rupture with these tribes the two
brothers removed their headquarters to the Wabash river, just below
the mouth of the Tippecanoe, where they established a village known
as "Prophet's town."
Tecumseh then notified General Harrison that he and his followers
would never consent to the occupation of the Indian lands by white
men until all the tribes should agree, instead of the few who claimed
to own the lands. Ha\'iug served this notice upon the governor of the
Indiana Territory, he began his active propaganda, visiting the chiefs
and head men of the tribeg to secure their cooperation aqd arouse
them to action. Some two years were spent in this work, and in the
meantime a treaty w-as concluded at Fort Wayne on September 30,
1809, whereby two large tracts of land in Indiana were ceded to the
United States. The first embraced practically all of the present coun-
ties of Fayette. Wayne and Randolph, and the second included approx-
imately the counties of Monroe, Lawrence, Green, Sullivan, Owen,
Clay and Vigo. This treaty so incensed the Shawnees and their allies
that they commenced a series of raids upon the frontier settlements.
To protect the settlers, General Harrison, in the summer of 1811, went
up the Wabash to the site of Terre Haute, wliere he built a fort.
He then went to Prophet's town, but before arriving at the village
he was met by a delegation and arrangements were made for a "talk"
the next day. That was on November 6, 1811. That night Harrison's
army encamped on a piece of high ground not far from the village.
Harrison distrusted the members of the delegation, so that night he
placed a strong guard about the camp and ordered his men to sleep on
34 HISTORY OF :\[ADISON COUNTY
their arms. Even's proved that his suspicions were well fouzided. A
little while before the break of day on the morning of the seventh, the
Indians, led by Tenskwatawa in person, made their attack, intending
to surprise the camp. The precautions taken by Harrison now demon-
strated his wisdom. His camp tires were extinguished and his men
fought on the defensive until it was light enough to see clearly, when
they charged, utterly routing the Indians. Amid the din of battle
the voice of the prophet could be heard haranguing his warriors, telling
them that through his supernatural power the bullets of the white men
would be rendered harmless and that they would win the victory. In
this action, known as the battle of Tippecanoe, the whites lost sixty
killed and one hundred wounded. The loss of the Indians was much
greater. Harrison then burned Prophet's town and returned to Vin-
cennes.
Tecumseh was in Tennessee at the time the battle occurred. Upon
his return it is said he called the prophet a fool, took him by the long
hair and shook him until his teeth rattled, and declared that he ought to
be killed for thwarting their plans. Not long after this Tecumseh went
to Canada, joined the British army, in which he was made a brigadier-
general, and fell at the battle of the Thames, October 5, 1813.
In December, 1811, a memorial was sent to Congress by the people
of Indiana, asking for admission into the Union as a state, but before
any action was taken on the memorial the War of 1812 broke out,
which completely engrossed the attention of the national administra-
tion for the next three years. In this conflict some of the tribes in the
interior acted in accord with the British and brought the war into
Indiana. Late in the year 1812 Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, of the
Nineteenth United States Infantry, with about six hundred mounted
men, was sent against the hostile Miamis on the Mississinewa river.
On the morning of December 17, 1812, Colonel Campbell surprised an
Indian town, inhabited by a number of Delawares and Miamis, killed
eight warriors and took forty-two prisoners. Before daybreak the next
morning, while Campbell and his officers were in council, his camp was
attacked by a large party of Indians, but after an action of over an
hour the' assailants fled, leaving fifteen dead upon the field, many more
having been probably carried away. The whites lost eight killed and
forty-two wounded. Campbell then sent two messages to the Delawares
living on the White river, who had previously been requested to aban-
don their towns there and remove to Ohio. In these messages he ex-
pressed his regret at having killed some of their tribe and urged them
to go to the Indian settlement on the Auglaize river in Ohio. Not long
after that they went to Ohio, accompanied by a small number of
friendly Miamis, and placed themselves under the protection of the
United States.
In June, 1813, Governor Posey received information that some
hostile Indians were lurking about the abandoned Delaware villages
on the White river and ordered Colonel Joseph Bartholomew to pro-
ceed at once to those villages and punish any Indians found there.
Bartholomew, with 137 mounted men — parts of three companies of
rangers commanded by Captains James Bigger, Williamson Dunn and
C. Peyton, and a small detachment of militia under Major Depauw
±^^t>U^1
HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY 35
— left Valonia on June 11, 1813, and four days later reached the upper
Delaware town on the White river to tind the principal part of it had
been burned before their arrival. In the four houses that were left
standing was a considerable quantity of corn. Three or four miles
down the river Bartholomew found another village that had been
burned, and twelve miles below the first town visited was another vil-
lage still standing. Here a number of horses were captured, a*large
quantity of corn was destroj'ed and the village laid waste. The sur-
rounding countiy was then scoured in search of Indians, but only a
few were discovered. In the attempt tq surround and capture them,
one Indian was killed. One of Captain Peyton's men was thrown from
his horse and while dismounted was shot in the hip by an Indian lurking
in ambush and severely wounded. The expedition then returned to
Valonia, arriving there on the 21st of June.
On December 14, 1815, a second memorial was addressed to Congress
by the inhabitants of Indiana Territory, praying for admission into
the Union. This time their efforts were crowned with success and a
bill providing for the admission of the state was approved by Presi-
dent ]\Iadison on April 19, 1816. At that time there were but thirteen
organized counties in Indiana and the greater part of the land, includ-
ing JIadison county, was still in the hands of the Indians. In the fall
of 1818 Jonathan Jennings, Benjamin Parke and Lewis Cass were
appointed commissioners on the part of the United States to negotiate a
treaty with the Delawares for their lands in Indiana. The treaty was
concluded at St. Mary's, October 3, 1818, when the tribe relinquished
all claim and title to the lands, with the understanding that posses-
sion was not to be given for three years, at the end of which time they
were to remove to a new home to be provided for them by the United
States on the west side of the Mississippi river. The United States
further agreed to pay to the Delawares a perpetual annuity of $4,000,
and to furnish and support a blacksmith for the benefit of the tribe.
Three days later (October 6, 1818), the treaty was ratified by the
Miamis, making it valid, and on September 20, 1821, the Delawares
turned their faces toward Hie setting sun and set out for their new
home beyond the great Father of Waters. The white man was now in
full possession. In the century that has elapsed since the burning of
the Delaware villages on the White river, great changes have come to
the beautiful valley. The scream of the factory whistle is heard instead
of the howl of the wolf or the war-whoop of the savage; the smoke of
the council fire has been displaced by the smoke that rolls from the
chimneys of great industrial establishments; the schoolhouse has taken
the place of the tepee: the trail through the forest has been broadened
into a highway, over which civilized man skims along in his automobile
at the rate of thirty or forty miles an hour ; along these highways are
stretched telephone and telegraph lines that bear testimony to the
century's progress, and coaches, almost palatial in their magnificence,
propelled by steam or electricity traverse the land where once the red^
man roamed in all his freedom.
The seat of government of the Territory of Indiana was established
at Vineennes when the territory was organized in 1800 and remained
there until 1813. On March 11, 1813, the territorial legislature passed
36 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
an act providing that "from and after the first day of May next, the
seat of government of this territory shall be located at Coiydon, Har-
rison county." There the capital remained until after the admission
of the state in 1816. By the act of January 11, 1820, the legislature
appointed ten commissioners to "select and locate a tract of land, not
exceeding four sections, for a permanent capital." The commissioners
entered at once upon their duties and after visiting several proposed
locations selected the one on the White river, where the city of In-
dianapolis now stands. There is a current rumor that the little vil-
lage of Strawtown, Hamilton county, only a short distance west of
the Madison county line, came within one vote of being the choice of the
commission. Had that site been selected, Madison county would have
been several miles nearer to the capital city. The selection of the
Indianapolis site was confirmed by the legislature on January 6, 1821,
but the seat of government was not removed from Corydon until Janu-
ary' 10. 1825.
CHAPTER IV
SETTLEMENT AND ORGANIZATION
First Settlers in Madisox County — ^Sketches op Prominent Pio-
neers— Frontier Life and Customs — The Log Cabin — Furniture
— "Swapping Work" — Log Rollings — Harvesting — Homespun
Clothing — Madison County Organized — Provisions of the Or-
ganic Act — County Seat Difficulties — Anderson Finally
Selected — Public Buildings — The Three Courthouses — Laying
THE Corner-stone of the Present Courthouse — The Four Jails —
Changes in the Original Boundaries.
When it became known that the Delaware Indians had ceded their
lauds in Indiana to the United States by the treaty of St. Mary's,
October 3, 1818, emigrants from the older states began coming into
the ' ' New Purchase ' ' for the purpose of securing lands and establishing
homes. Although the treaty gave the Indians the privilege of remain-
ing upon the ceded lands for three years, before the expiration of that
period a number of white men had located in what is now Madison
county, the majority of them coming from Virginia and Kentucky.
The first actual settler in the county, of whom anything authentic
can be learned, was an Irishman named John Rogers, who came from
North Carolina and on December 29, 1818, less than two months after the
conclusion of the treaty, located on a tract about a mile and a half east
of the present town of Pei^dleton. The lands had not yet been sur-
veyed, but Mr. Rogers set to work clearing his land and preparing for
a crop the following season. When the survey was made bj' the gov-
ernment, he did not like the tract he was on and removed a short dis-
tance southeast, where he entered a farm and lived until 1838, when
he sold out to Abraham Vernon and went to Iowa.
Among those who located in the county in 1819 were Frederick
Bronnenberg and Adam Winsell, both of whom were afterward prom-
inently identified with public affairs. Frederick Bronnenberg was a
German, who first settled on a piece of land about three and a half
miles east of Anderson, on the south side of the White river. A year
or so later he removed to the north side of that stream, where he
remained for one year, when he recrossed the river and entered a tract
of land about a mile west of the present town of Chesterfield. There he
continued to reside until his death in 1853. Mr. Bronnenberg was one
of the most energetic and progressive of Madi-son county's pioneers. He
built a sawmill, gristmill and woolen factory, all of which were destroyed
by fire some five or six years before his death. He was a member of
the first grand jury after the county was organized.
37
38 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Adam Winsell was a blacksmith by trade. When he came to the
county in 1819, he located on the west half of the northwest quarter
of section 22, township 18, range 7, about a mile and a half east of
Pendleton, where he established what was probably the first blacksmith
shop in the county. He did not enter the land for more than ten years
after settling upon it, but told the other settlere as they came in that he
had done so, later explaining that he did not want to" "run the risk of
having it entered from under him." When the county was organized
in 1823', he was made one of the first associate judges and held the
ofiSee for seven years. As a blacksmith he made the irons and fastened
them upon the men who murdered the two Indians in 1824, remarking
as he did the work that he would put them on so firmly that "no corpus
could get them off without his consent." In 1837 he sold his farm to
Joseph Weeks and went to Iowa. He has been described as a man of
boundless good nature, never cross to his family, and a much better
man than many of those who make higher pretensions. In a sketch of
Judge Winsell, written by Joseph B. Lewis and published in the Ander-
son Herald of September 22, 1881, the writer says: "He always ob-
tained religion at camp meeting, just after the harvest times, and con-
tinued in good standing in the church until the shooting matches
began in the fall, when he would get drunk, and, as a necessary con-
sequence, be expelled from the church and remain outside until camp
meeting time came around the next year. It is due to truth, if not to
the dignity of history, to say that the Judge was a good shot and a
boon companion of the boys at these shooting matches."
In 1820, as the time for the departure of the Indians drew nearer,
quite a number of white men came into the county, most of them set-
tling in what is now Fall Creek township. Among them were eight
men who formed a colony in Clarke county, Ohio, and came to Indiana
in search of lands. They were Elias Hollingsworth, Thomas and Wil-
liam McCartney, Manly Richards, William Curtis, Israel Cox, Saul
Shaul and Moses Corwin. All except the last named were married and
after selecting their lands they returned to Ohio for their families, mak-
ing the journey back to Indiana with one wagon, drawn by an ox team,
and four pack horses. From Dayton, Ohio, to Newcastle, Indiana, they
had a public highway, but from the latter place they guided their course
by a compass, which one of their number was fortunate enough to pos-
sess, blazing their way through the forest to mark out a route for use on
future occasions. Upon arriving at their destination they found that
two men named Stanfield and Burras had settled upon the prairie
north of where Pendleton now stands. A little later in the year Thomas
and James Scott and Thomas M. Pendleton, with some twelve or fifteen
others, settled in the same locality.
Another pioneer of 1820 was Amasa Makepeace, who came from
Massachusetts and settled where the town of Chesterfield is now located.
Not long after settling there he built a mill, and in 1825 his son, Allen,
opened a store. The latter was at one time considered the wealthiest
man in Madison county and at the time of his death, in 1872, was the
owner of nearly two thousand acres of land. Another son, Alford, was
for years a prominent business man of Anderson. He died in 1873.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 39
Amasa Makepeace was a member of the county board whieh ordered
the erection of the first jail in 1829.
William Marshall also came to the county in 1820, built a double
log house on the west side of the White river, opposite the present city
of Anderson, and established a trading post. His stock consisted chiefly
of goods adapted to the Indian trade, such as cheap articles of jewelry,
show}' blankets, etc. Little is known of Mr. Marshall, but it is probable
his trading post was discontinued when the Indians left the country.
Benjamin Fisher and his family settled near the present village of
Fishersburg in 1820. He was killed by Indians while felling a tree
near Strawtown, Hamilton county, and "his widow afterward married
a man named Freel. His son. Charles Fisher, who was but one year
old when the family came to 5Iadison county, was the first merchant in
Fishersburg. In this year there also came Zenas Beckwith, who set-
tled on the White river, near Anderson; Eli Harrison and William
Stogdon (or Stockton), near Anderson; and a few others in various
parts of the country.
On March 4, 1821, John Berry came with his family from Clark
county, Indiana, and established his domicile where the city of Anderson
now stands. When the county was organized he donated a consider-
able portion of his land (Kingman sa.ys sixty acres) for county seat
purposes. He was the first postmaster at Anderson, but after several
years residence there went to Huntington, Indiana, where he died in
1835. His son, Nineveh Berry, was bom in Clark county, April 20,
1804, and was therefore nearly seventeen years of age when the family
removed to Anderson. His whole life was passed in his native state and
just before his death, which occurred on August 17, 1883, it was claimed
that lie was the oldest native born Hoosier living. He served for eight
years as countj' recorder ; four j'ears as treasurer ; was a soldier in the
Mexican war; enlisted in the Thirty-fourth Indiana Infantry in the
Civil war, but after a year's service in the commissary department
failing health compelled him to retire from the army. In 1833 he mar-
ried Hannah Pugh, who came with her parents to Madison county from
Ohio in 1826, when she was eleven years old. She died on June 11, 1875.
During the years 1821 and 1822 William Williams, Palmer Patrick,
Thomas and William Silver, Adam Winchell, the Richmond family and
a few others settled in Fall Creek township ; Jacob Hiday, Samuel Hol-
liday, who was one of the first associate judges of the county, and some
others in Green; the Kinser and Dewey families, Daniel Wise, George
Cunningham, Robert Blair, David, William and John Montgomery, in
Jackson; William Diltz, David Croan, Daniel Noland, William Woods,
John Martin, Joseph Carpenter and a few others in Union; Jonathan
Davis, Abel Jenney, William Nelson, Andrew Young and his three
sons — William, Christopher and Isaac — and a number of others in the
vicinity of Anderson. A more complete account of the local settle-
ments will be found in the chapters on Township History.
Pioneer Life and Customs
The young people of the present generation can hardly understand
or appreciate the toil and hardships of these pioneers who boldly
40 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
marched into the wilderness, robbed it of its terrors, and paved the way
for the comforts and luxuries of modern civilization. One of the first
necessities of the frontier settler was to provide a shelter for himself
and family. This shelter was nearly always a log cabin, rarely more
than sixteen by twenty feet in size, and usually consisting of but one
room, which was living room, dining room, bed room and kitchen. Where
several settlers came into a new country at the same time, one cabin
would ,be built, in which all would live together until others could be
erected. Money was scarce on the frontier and hired labor was prac-
tically unknown. To overcome this condition the settlers in a neighbor-
hood would "swap" work by helping each other to do things that one
man could not well do by himself. Hence, when a settler wanted to
build a cabin, he would cut his logs, drag them to the site, and then call
upon his neighbors to assist in placing them in position. When the com-
pany was assembled four men skilled in the use of the ax were selected
to "carry up the corners." These men took their places at the four
corners of the cabin and as the logs were pushed up to them on poles or
"skids," would shape a "saddle" upon the top of each and then cut a
notch in the under side of the next to fit upon the saddle. The man
who could "carry up a corner," keeping the walls fairly plumb by his
eye alone, was considered an artist.
The "house-raising" was an event of social as well as industrial
importance. While the men were engaged in raising the cabin, the
"women folks" would get together and prepare dinner, each one bring-
ing from her own store such articles of food as she thought the others
might not be able to supply. If the weather was warm enough, the
dinner would be served out of doors upon an improvised table under the
shade of the trees; but if too cold for that, it would be served in the
cabin of the nearest settler. And that dinner! While it boasted no
terrapin nor canvas-back duck, it was made up of wholesome, nutritious
food, with appetite as the chief sauce, and was always accompanied by
jest and good-natured badinage.
The roof of the cabin was made of oak clapboards, split or rived with
an instrument called a frow, and were generally three or four feet long.
Nails and hardware of all kinds were scarce and not infrequently the
cabin would be finished without a single pieoe of iron being used in its
construction. The clapboards would be held in place by poles running
lengthwise of the roof and fastened to the logs at either end with wooden
pins; the door would be made of boards fastened to the battens with
wooden pins, provided with wooden hinges and a wooden latch, which
could be lifted from the outside by pulling a string. At night the string
was drawn inside and the door was locked. This custom gave rise to the
expression "The latch-string is always out," signifying a welcome when-
ever the visitor might choose to call.
Oftentimes the cabin had no floor except "mother earth." At others
a puncheon floor was provided. The puncheons were slabs of timber,
split as nearly the same thickness as possible, and after the floor was
laid the surface would be smoothed with an adz. Lumber was scarce
and hard to obtain. In many frontier settlements the first boards were
made with a whip-saw. By this method of manufacturing lumber the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
41
log, generallj- hewed on two sides with a broad-ax, would be placed upon
a scaffold high enough for a man to stand upright under it. The upper
surface of the log was marked with lines showing the thickness of the
boards. One man would stand upon the top of the log to guide the saw
and another would stand below to pull the saw down, giving it the cut-
ting stroke. This was a slow and tedious process, but it was the one in
use until some enterprising settler would build a sawmill in the neigh-
borhood.
At the time a cabin was raised no openings were left for doors and
windows, these being sawed out after the walls were up. An opening
would also be made at one end for a fireplace, which was usually wide
enough to take in sticks of wood four or five feet in length. If stone was
convenient, a stone chimnev would be built outside the cabin, but in a
Pioneer Cabin
majority of instances the chimney would be constructed of sticks and
clay. The meals for the household were cooked at the fireplace, a long-
handled skillet, with an iron lid, and an iron kettle being the principal
cooking utensils. The former was used for frying meats and baking
bread and the latter in the preparation of the "boiled dinner."
Matches were practically unknown and the fire in the fireplace was
not permitted to become extinguished. If such an unfortunate event
should happen one of the family would be sent to the nearest neighbor's
for a burning brand or a shovelful of coals to replenish the supply. On
fall and winter evenings the light thrown out by the open fire was often
the only light in the cabin. In warm weather, when a fire would be
uncomfortable, light was supplied by partially filling a shallow dish with
lard or bear's grease, in which was immersed a loosely-twisted strip of
cotton cloth, one end of which was allowed to project beyond the edge
of the dish. The projecting end was then lighted and, while this rude
lamp emitted both smoke and the odor of burning grease, it afforded
42 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
light enough for the housewife to attend to her duties. Later came the
tallow cardie, which was considered the acme of perfection in artificial
lighting. These candles were made in moulds of tin, usually consisting
of six or eight tubes soldered together. Through the center of each tube
would be drawn a cotton wick, then' molten tallow would be poured in
until the moulds were filled, when the whole would be set in a cool place
for the tallow to harden, after which the candles were withdrawn and
kept in a cool place until wanted for use.
To transport real furniture for many miles through the woods to a
frontier settlement was out of the question, so the pioneer supplied his
cabin with furniture of his own make. A few clapboards, smoothed
with a draw-knife and supported on pins driven into the walls, served
as a place to keep the dishes. Sometimes this primitive "china closet"
would be covered by a curtain of cotton cloth, though the curtain in
many cases was lacking. Tables were formed by nailing or pinning
clapboards or whipsawed boards to battens and the table top thus formed
would be supported on trestles. When not in use, the top could be stood
on edge against the wall and the trestles stacked in one corner, in order
to make more room. Chairs were a luxury that few could afford. To
provide a substitute benches or stools were made of puncheons, supported
on pins driven into holes bored with a large auger. These holes were
bored at an angle that would permit the legs to flare outward, thus
giving the bench or stool greater stability.
After the "house-raising" came the "house-warming." In every
neighborhood there was at least one fiddler, as the pioneer violinist
was called, whose services would be called into requisition upon the
completion of the cabin, and the neighbors would gather to dedicate
the new dwelling with a dance. The waltz and the two-step were un-
known, but their places were well supplied with the minuet and the old
Virginia reel, or even the "break-down," in which main strength and
physical endurance took the place of the "poetrj- of motion."
Other instances where "swapping" work was customary were in the
log-rollings and at harvest time. When a settler undertook to clear a
piece of ground for cultivation, he felled the trees and cut or burned
the logs into such lengths that they could be handled, after which he
invited his neighbors to aid him in piling them in heaps suitable for
burning. These log-rollings were tests of physical strength. The men
were divided into pairs, according to their muscular ability, and each
pair provided with a piece of tough wood called a "hand-spike." The
two strongest men were selected to "make daylight" — that is, to place
their hand-spike under one end of the log ancl raise it high enough for
the others to get their spikes in position. WHien all was ready they
came up together, and woe to the unfortunate individual who allowed
his fingers "to take mud" by his inability to lift his share of the load,
for the laugh would be on him for the balance of the day, unless be
could redeem himself by causing his partner "to take mud."
In early days the wheat in harvest time was cut with the old-fash-
ioned reaping hook, a crooked steel knife, with a serrated edge and a
handle at one end. As more land was brought under cultivation and
the number of acres sown to wheat each year increased, progress
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 43
demanded a better method of harvesting the grain and the cradle was
invented. This implement consisted of four tingers of tough wood,
bent to conform to the curvature of the scj'the, over which they were
mounted on a light framework. A good cradler could cut from four
to tive acres a day. It was no unusual sight to see a half dozen or
more eradlers in a field, each followed by a hoy with a rake to bunch
the wheat into sheaves and a man to bind them. These were followed
by a shocking party, which stacked the sheaves in shocks. When one
man's grain was harvested the party would move on to the next ripest
field Tintil the wheat of the entire neighborhood was taken care of and
made ready for the flail, which was the primitive threshing machine.
At the log-rollings and harvesting bees a little whisky was always
provided for the men, yet it was an uncommon thing for anyone to
drink enough to become intoxicated. On these occasions the women
would assist in preparing the meals for the log-rollers or harvest hands,
and, as in the case of a house-warming, the frolic would frequently
•wind up with a dance. After awhile the flail gave way to the old
"ground-hog" threshing machine, which separated the grain from the
straw, but did not clean it from the chaff. Then the fanning mill was
invented and many a boy who wanted to spend an afternoon along some
stream fishing for "shiners" has been compelled to turn the crank of
the fanning mill, furnishing the motive power while his father fed the
wheat and chaff into the machine.
Game was plentiful when the first settlers came, and as nearly
every pioneer was an expert in the use of the rifle the forest was
depended upon to furnish the family a supply of meat. It is related of
Caleb Williams, a son of William Williams, who was one of the early
settlers in Fall Creek township, that he stood in one place and killed
fifty-one squirrels as they were preying upon his corn-field, missing his
fifty-second shot. But in the early days there was much larger game
than squirrels, and roast venison, or a feast of bear meat, was fre-
quently to be found upon the settler's table.
Clothing was usually of the homespun variety. The man who wore
"store clothes" was regarded much as the people of the present gen-
eration regard a multimillionaire. Nearly every settler kept a few
sheep, and in every neighborhood there were one or more sets of hand
cards — a sort of brush with short wire teeth, all bent slightly in one
direction — which were used for converting the wool into rolls. Then
the rolls were spun into yarn on the old-fashioned spinning wheel, which
was turned with a stick having a small knob at one end, the housewife
walking back and forth as the rapidly revolving spindle made the roll
into woolen thread. An industrious spinner could "do her six cuts" a
day, but how many of the young women who graduated in the state's
high schools in 1913 know what "six cuts" means? After the yam was
spun it was colored with indigo or the bark of some tree — most fre-
quently the walnut — and then woven into flannel, jeans or linsey on
the old hand loom.
Flax was raised by almost every settler. When the plant was ripe
it was pulled up by the roots and spread out to dry, or "rot," and
when the straw was made brittle by this process the flax was ready for
44
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the "break," an implement which broke the straw into short pieces.
Next, to separate the straw from the bark or fiber, the flax was thrown
over the rounded end of a board set upright and beaten with the "scutch-
ing knife," a piece of hard wood with moderately sharp edges. Pieces
of straw too small to be caught by the scutching process were removed
by the "hackle," which was made by sharpening a number of nails
or pieces of wire of equal length and driving them closely through a
board. Combing the flax through the hackle also split the fiber into
fine threads and thus made it ready for the spinning wheel. Flax was
Interior Pioneer Cabin
generally spun on a small wheel operated by foot power. After the
linen was woven, it was spread out upon a grass plot to bleach, after
which it was used for table cloths, sheets for the bed and numerous
articles of clothing.
But times have changed. The log cabin has given way to the modern
residence and the tallow caudle to the electric light. Jleals are no longer
prepared upon the hearth, where the cook was compelled to wear a
deep bonnet to shield her face from the fierce heat of the blazing fire.
The reaping hook and the cradle have been supplanted by the twine
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 45
binder, and where the weary farmer once toiled with his flail to thrash
his few bushels of wheat is now heard the hum of the steam thresher,
which daily turns out hundreds of bushels ready for the market. The
great packing companies, with their refrigerating cai-s, supply the
denizens of the cities with fresh meats. The spinning wheel and the
hand loom are looked upon as relies of a primitive civilization and now
everybody wears "store clothes." Yes, great progress has been made
since the first white men came to Madison county, but are the people any
happier or more unselfish than the pioneers who "swapped" work
while they brought the wilderness under subjection ?
By the latter part of the summer of 1822 there were a sufficient
number of inhabitants within the county to arouse an interest in the
question of a separate county organization. Meetings were held in the
various settlements, at which the subject was discussed, and through
these meetings was developed a sentiment almost unanimous in favor of
a count3' organization. Accordingly, when the legislature assembled
at Corydon on December 2, 1822, the fallowing bill was introduced early
in the session, and after passing both houses was approved by Governor
William Hendricks on January 4, 1823 :
The Organic Act
"Section 1. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of
Indiana, That from and after the first day of July next, all that tract
of land which is included within the following boundaries shall consti-
tute and form a new county, to be known and designated by the name
of the county of Madison, to wit : Beginning at the southwest corner
of the county of Henry, thence north with the line of the same and to
the township line dividing 20 and 21 north; thence west to the north-
east corner of Section 5, in Township 20 north, Range 6 east; thence
south twenty miles ; thence west to the northeast corner of the county of
Marion ; thence south to the northwest corner of Shelby county ; thence
east with the line of Shelliy, until the same intei-sects Rush county;
thence north with Rush county to the northwest corner of the same;
thence east to the place of beginning.
"Section 2. The .said new county of Madison shall, from and after
the first day of July next, enjoy all the rights, privileges and jurisdic-
tions, which to separate and independent counties, do or may properly
belong or appertain.
"Section 3. Abijah Bayless, of Harrison county; William Williams,
of Jackson county; Jesse Reddick, of Bartholomew county; Rollin C.
Dewey, of Lawrence county, and James Dill, of Dearborn county, are
hereby appointed Commissioners, agreeably to an act entitled 'An act
for fixing the sets of justice in all new counties hereafter to be laid
off. ' The Commissioners above named shall meet at the house of William
McCartney, in the said new county of Madison, on the first Monday in
September next, and shall immediately proceed to discharge the duties
assigned them by law. It is hereby made the duty of the Sheriff of
Marion county to notify the said Commissioners, either in person or by
written notification of their appointment, on or before the fifteenth
46 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
day of August next, and the said Sheriff of Marion county shall be
allowed therefor by the County Commissioners of the county of Madison
such compensation as by them shall be deemed just and reasonable, to
be paid out of the county treasury of the county of Madison in the
same manner other allowances are paid.
"Section 4. The circuit and other courts of the county of Madison
shall meet and be holden at the house of William McCartney, until suit-
able accommodations can be had at the county seat of said county ; and
so soon as the courts of said county are satisfied that suitable accom-
modations are provided at the county seat of said county they shall
adjourn thereto: after which time, all the courts of said county shall
be held at the seat of justice thereof; provided, however, that the circuit
court of said county shall have authoitty to remove from the house of
said William McCartney to any more suitable place in said county
previous to the completion of the public buildings if they should deem
the same expedient.
"Section 5. The agent who shall be appointed for said county, to
superintend the sales of lots at the county seat of said county or receive
donations for said county, shall receive ten per cent of the proceeds of
such sale and donations, which he shall pay over to such person or
persons, as bj' law may be authorized to receive the same, for the use
of a county library for said county, which he shall pay over at such
time or times and manner as shall be directed by law.
"Section 6. The Board of County Commissioners of said county
shall, within twelve months after the permanent seat of justice shall
have been selected, proceed to erect the necessary public buildings
thereon. ' '
There were two other sections. Section 7 providing for the "organiza"-
tion, conduct and support of a county library, as provided by the act
organizing Dubois county, approved January 23, 1818," and Section 8,
which attached the new county of Madison to the Fifth judicial circuit
of the state.
In accordance with the provisions of this act, the county was for-
mally organized on Monday, November 10, 1823, by John Roberts,
sheriff of Marion county, who had been appointed for that purpose by
the legislature. The organization was effected at the house of William
McCartney, a log dwelling of two rooms, which stood upon the site
afterward occupied by the Universalist church in the town of Pendleton.
Commissions were presented by Samuel Holliday and Adam Winsell,
as associate judges; Moses Cox, as clerk, and Samuel Cory, as sheriff.
These commissions set forth that the holders thereof had been regularly
appointed by William Hendricks, governor of the state, and each bore
the indorsement of Sheriff Roberts, certif3'ing that the person to whom
it was issued had taken the prescribed oath of office and the oath against
dueling. After the commissions had been received the sheriff of Marion
county made proclamation that "the Madison circuit court is now open,
according to law." An account of the proceedings of this first court
will be found in the chapter relating to the Bench and Bar.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUxNTY 47
Locating the County Seat
Some trouble was expenenced in the matter ^f locating a permanent
seat of justice. Sheriff Roberts, of Marion county, notified the commis-
sioners named in Section 1 of the organic act of their appointment, and
on September 1, 1823, the same being the first ^Monday in the month,
the commissioners met at the house of William McCartney and pro-
ceeded to discharge the duties imposed upon them by law. Several
proposed sites were visited and examined, but the commissioners finally
decided to accept the proposition of John Berry, who was one of the
first settlei-s at or near Chief Andenson's village on the White river.
Owing to the fact that the records concerning this transaction cannot be
found, the details of Mv. Berry's proposition are not definitely known.
It is certain, however, that the acceptance of this site was not concluded
at the time, and it was not long until some dissatisfaction arose over
the decision of the commissioners. Steps were accordingly taken to
secure a relocation of the seat of justice. The cjuestion came before
the legislature at the session of 1825-26 and on January 13, 1826, the
governor approved an act, the principal provisions of which were as
follows :
"Section 1. Be it enacted hy the General Assembly of the State
of Indiana, That Benjamin Irwin, of Bartholomew county ; George
Hunt, of Wayne county ; Lewis Hendricks, of Shelby county ; Elisha
Long, of Henry county, and Daniel Heaton, of Hamilton county, be,
and they are hereby, appointed commissioners, to relocate the seat of
justice of Madison county. The commissioners above named, shall
meet at the house of ]\Ioses Pearson, in said county, on the first Monday
in June next, and shall proceed to locate the seat of justice of said
county under the provisions of the laws regulating the fixing of the
seat of justice in all new counties hereafter to be laid off.
"Section 2. The circuit and all courts of said county shall be held
at the house of the said Moses Pearson, until suitable accommodations
can be had at the county seat, when all the courts of said county shall be
removed thereunto.
"Section 6. All proceedings had as to the donation made by John
Berry and others to said county, at Andersontown, in said county, are
hereby annulled and revoked, and the said donation is hereby returned
to the respective original proprietor or proprietors, as if the same had
nevef been granted; and all sales made by the agent of said county, of
whatever nature or kind, in the disposal of lots or lands donated to the
said county heretofore, shall be so far considered annulled that the
purchase money paid and the obligations given by the respective pur-
chasers, shall be returned to them or their legal representatives, with
interest on the amount paid, on application; and thereupon, the
respective bond or obligation which may have been given to said pur-
chaser, relative to said sale, shall be returned to the said agent.
"Section 7. If any money, collected by said agent, arising from said
donations to the county, has been so disposed of that it cannot be
returned, the Board of justices of said county shall direct the payment
of the same to be made out of the treasury of the county."
48 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
No record has been found to show that these commissioners ever
made any effort to discharge their duties under the provisions of the
act appointing them. It is probable that no action was taken, for on
January 26, 1827, the governor approved an act, Section 1 of which
provided :
' ' That William Shannon, Jeremiah K. Lemon and William C. Black-
more, of Hamilton county; Moses Prewitt, of Shelby county, and John
Thompson, of Marion county, be, and they are hereby, appointed com-
missioners to relocate the seat of justice of Madison county. The commis-
sioners above named shall meet at the house of John Perry (Berry), in
said county, on the third Monday in May next, and proceed to locate
the seat of justice of said county, agreeably to the provisions of an
act entitled 'An act to establish seats of justice in new counties,'
approved January 14, 1824, and the act amendatory of the same,
approved December 19, 1825."
On May 21, 1827, the time appointed by law, the commissioners met
at the house of John Berry and entered upon the performance of their
duties. There is no evidence to show that they considered any propo-
sition except the one submitted by John Berry, the terms of which were
reported to be satisfactory and the proposition was accepted. Pursuant
to this arrangement, John Berry and his wife, Sally Berry, on November
7, 1827, executed a deed to William Curtis, who had in the meantime
been appointed county agent, for the following described tract of land:
"Commencing at the southeast corner of Lot No. 16, in the southwest
square in the town of Andersontown ; thence north, with Meridian
street, to the northeast corner of Lot No. 1 in the northwest square of
said town ; thence east to White river ; thence up said river, at low-
water mark, until a line running a due south course till it comes parallel
with the south end of Meridian street, will contain thirty acres, being
part of the southeast quarter of Section 12, Town 19 north, of Range
7 east," etc.
The tract of land thus conveyed was to remain the property of the
county "so long as the town aforesaid continues to be the permanent
seat of justice of Madison county," and as a consideration Berry
received Lot No. 7, "in the north front of Anderson, in said county,
receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged." Thus, after nearly four years,
the county seat question was settled. In the meantime justice had been
administered at Pendleton, though that place was never officially recog-
nized as the county seat.
CouRT-HousES
The next step in the county's progress was the erection of public
buildings in accordance with Section 6 of the organic act, which pro-
vided that the county commissioners should "proceed to erect the neces-
sary public buildings within twelve months after the permanent seat
of justice shall have been selected. ' ' More than twelve months elapsed,
however, before any definite steps were taken for the erection of a court-
house. The location of the county seat was settled in May, 1827, and
it was not until September 1, 1828, that the county board directed the
agent of Madison county to "sell the building of a court-house to the
I
HISTORY OF .AIADISON COUNTY
49
lowest bidder, said sale to take plaee on tlie last Friday in Oetober next,
the said house to be twenty-six lect one way and twenty-two feet the
other way on the ground, two stories high, the lower story to be nine
feet between floors and the upper stoiy to be eight feet between floors,
divided into two rooms with two twelve-light window.s in each of the
upper rooms and four twelve-light windows in the lower room, the last
mentioned room to be ceiled and a stove put therein, with all other
necessary conveniences, the aforesaid building to be well finished on or
before the first daj' of September next."
Madisox County Cot;RTiiorsE
Septimus Smith, publisher of a weekly newspaper at Centerville,
Wayne county, was allowed the sum of $2.2.5 by the county board at
tlieJanuarj' "session in 1839 for advertising "the sale of a contract to
build a court-house," which notice had been published five times in his
paper. This court-house was never built. For some reason not explained
in the records, the order authorizing the county agent to sell the con-
tract was revoked at the July session in 1829, as was also the order
50 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
allowing William Curtis, the county agent, the sum of thirty dollars
"for the purpose of building a court-house."
In January, 1831, it was ordered by the board in regular session,
"That the agent of the county of Madison sell to the lowest bidder the
building of a court-house, to be built on lot No. 17, in the N. E. square,
in Andersontown, to be built on the following plan, to-wit : One story
high, thirty-six feet long and twenty feet wide, to be elevated one foot
from the ground and underpinned with stone, the story to be ten feet
between floors, the building to be well weather-boarded and covered with
good joint shingles, to have a good brick chimney in the west end, with
a large fireplace therein, ten feet of the end to the partitioned off and
the room so to be partitioned off as to make two ten-feet jui-y rooms,
all the partitions to be run of good, seasoned plank. Each of the
said jury rooms to have a door to open into the large room; the said
house to have three twelve-light windows in the south side and three
in north side, the windows to be so placed that the large room shall
have four windows and each of the jury rooms one. The under floor
to be laid in good workmanlike manner, the upper floor to be laid of
loose planks; (the) house to have one door in the front, to open near
the partition; then windows to be in, the outside door hung and the
house inclosed on or before the second Monday in May next, and the
whole work completed according to the above plan on or before the
second Monday in November next. The sale to take place at Anderson-
town on the third Saturday in January, inst., the said agent taking
bond and security in double the amount for which is taken, on condi-
tion for the completion of the work against the 15th day of November,
1831."
When the day arrived for opening the bids, Daniel Harpold was
found to be the lowest bidder and was awarded the contract for the
erection of the building. He evidently completed the court-house some-
where near the time specified by the board, as in January, 1832, John
Drewry and Nathaniel Chapman were appointed by the board "to
examine the new court-house and report if it had been built according
to contract."
In these days, when charges of corruption or "graft" in connection
with the erection of public buildings are so common, it is refreshing
to read the itemized list of deductions recommended by Drewry and
Chapman, because the contract had not been "fully complied with."
These deductions were as follows :
Lack of studding in frame $ 5.00
Lack of work at windows 2.00
Lack of joists 2.50
Lack of plank in upper floor 3.00
Lack of rafters 3.00
Deficiency in doors 1-50
Deficienc3' in weather-boards 6.00
Faulty material in chimney 4.00
Deficiency in floors and partitions 3.00
Total $30.00
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 51
The recommendation was adopted by the board and the contractor
was discharged. This first court-hopse stood on East Eighth street,
between Main street and Central avenue. It was used for county pur-
poses until after the erection of a new court-house upon the public
square, when it was sold by order of the county board and was used
as a dwelling until torn down to make way for the business block that
now occupies the site. While it was in use several appropriations were
made by the board for changes or improvements in the building. In
May, 1832, a platform sixteen inches high, three and a half by seven
feet in size, was ordered for the judge, three plank benches were ordered
at the same time, as well as a railing or partition, four feet high, to
separate the bar from the general public. In September, 1834, a new
partition and shutters for the windows were ordered. The first session
of court held in this court-house was the May term of the Madison
circuit court in 1833.
Early in the year 1837 it became apparent that the business of the
county had outgrown the little, one-story court-house, and at the March
term in that year the board of county commissioners ordered the publi-
cation of notices in the Indiana Journal and the Indiana Democrat, both
published in Indianapolis, advertising for bids for the erection of a new
court-house for Madison county, the notices appearing for three succes-
sive weeks. The contract was let on April 5, 1837 (the first Wednesday),
to Crawford & Meek, of Hancock county, for $5,770. The contract
called for a structure "of brick, forty-four feet square., two stories
high, all to be like the court-house at Noblesvilk, except the court-
room, which is to be on the lower floor; the tower to be like that on the
court-house at Indianapolis, and the cupola, which is to be like that on
the court-house at Centerville. "
It was also specified that the court-house was to be erected on the
public square in Andersontown and was to be inclosed on or before
November 1, 1837. Crawford & Meek completed the building within
the time designated in the contract and on November 25, 1839, a special
session of the county board was called "for the purpose of receiving
and accepting the court-house as being fully completed according to
the contract existing between the Board and Nathan Crawford and
Joshua Jleek, embracing subsequent alterations." At that time the
contractors were allowed sixty-three dollars for extra work, and on
January 9, 1840, the board ordered the payment of $2,770 to Nathan
Crawford ' ' in full of amount due for the court-house. ' ' The first term
of the circuit court in the new court-house was held in October, 1839,
with William W. Wick as the presiding judge.
Not only was the court-house used for the transaction of the public
business, but rooms in it were also rented to individuals and societies.
At the May session of the board in 1841, it was "ordered that Nineveh
Berry pay $3 per month rent for the room which he now occupies in
the court-house for the postoffiee, so long as he remains in the ^ame."
In March, 1846, it was "ordered that the southeast room of the court-
house, up stairs, be assigned to Mount Moriah Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons, and to be kept in good order by said lodge." In
December, 1849, Anderson Division, No. 227, Sons of Temperance, pre-
52 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sented a petition asking permission to remove the partition between
the grand jury room and the southwest room, and to occupy the same
as a meeting place when so altered. The request was granted, with
the understanding that the said Anderson Division, No. 227, was to
keep the room in repair. Rooms were also rented to attorneys and
justices of the peace, this custom continuing until about 1860, when
the entire building was devoted to the use of the county. Some ten or
twelve years before that time a small one-story brick building was
erected on the southeast corner of the public square for the offices of
the auditor, treasurer and recorder. This building was torn down in
1882, when work upon the present court-house was commenced.
The court-house built by Crawford & Meek stood for more than
forty years, or until it was destroyed by fire early on the morning of
December 10, 1880. The county suffered more through the loss of the
public records than in the destruction of the building. It was a com-
paratively easy matter to erect a new court-house, but the valuable
records can never be replaced.
On the day following the fire, the commissioners met in special
session, rented quarters in the "Westerfield block on North Alain street
for the clerk and sheriff, and appointed Edwin P. Schlater special com-
missioner to look after the damaged records. Mr. Schlater was familiar
with the records of the court and the clerk's office and through his labors
a large number of valuable documents were saved. For a time the
sessions of the court were held in the hall in the Westerfield block, but
later were removed, with the offices of the clerk and sheriff, to the
Hannah & Boring building, on the north side of the public square. Not
long after the fire the commissioners ordered the levy of a light tax
upon the taxable property of the county, the proceeds of whichi were
to be used in the erection of a new court-house, and advertised for
plans and specifications. On February 8, 1882, the plans submitted
by George W. Bunting, an architect of Indianapolis, were accepted
and on March 27, 1882, the contract for the erection was awarded to
McCormack & Sweeney, of Columbus, Indiana, for $152,000.
August 17, 1882, was a red-letter day in Madison county's calendar.
On that day the corner-stone of the present court-house was laid with
impressive and appropriate ceremonies. Prior to that date the com-
missioners ordered "that the honor of laying the corner-stone be ten-
dered to Mount Moriah Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons." The invi-
tation was accepted by the lodge, which secured the services of Bruce
Carr, at that time the grand master of the Indiana grand lodge. Invi-
tations were likewise extended to various social and fraternal societies
and the Masonic lodges in other counties to participate in the cere-
monies. A reception committee of sixteen members was appointed from
the Masons, Odd Fellows and Red Men to welcome the visiting societies.
On this committee the Masons were represented by John P. Barnes, J. M.
Dickson, T. J. Stephens, Nineveh Berry and C. K. McCullough; the
Odd Fellows by W. R. Myers, Joseph Fulton, M. A. Chipman, Samuel
Myers, W. W. Williams and W. S. Diven; and the Red Men by C. D.
Thompson, James Mohan, J. S. Carr, Thomas Gee and Peter Fromlet.
In the great civic parade that preceded the laying of the corner-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 53
stone Major John F. Wildman was grand marshal. His aids were
J. P. Barnes, C. K. McCuUough and L. J. Burr, for the Masons ; C. B.
Cooper, C. T. Doxey and W. S. Diven, for the Odd Fellows; and for
the Red Men the members of that order who served on the reception
committee. After the parade the vast throng assembled about the public
square to witness the ceremony of placing the stone in position. McCor-
maek & Sweeney, the contractors, had erected a large stand over the
northeast corner of the foundation to accommodate the speakers, the
oificers of the day, the musicians and the invited guests. Thomas B.
Orr, of Anderson, delivered the address of welcome, at the conclusion
of which Grand Master Bruce Carr took charge of the exercises and
after the stone was laid according to the Masonic ritual delivered an
appropriate address. He was followed by Nineveh Berry, one of the
oldest residents of Madison county, and Colonel James B. Maynard,
editor of the Indianapolis Sentinel.
The corner-stone is Berea sandstone from the quarries near Cleve-
land, Ohio. It is six feet three and a half inches long, three feet eleven
inches wide, two feet six inches thick and weighs five tons. "Within the
stone was deposited a copper casket containing historical sketches of
the Masonic bodies of Madison county ; also histories of the Odd Fel-
lows, Red Men, Knights of Honor, Royal Arcanum and other fraternal
organizations in the county; proceedings of the Indiana Masonic and
Odd Fellows grand lodges for 1882; proceedings of the Indiana Grand
Chapter, Royal Arch Masons for 1881 ; copies of the Anderson, Indian-
apolis, Cincinnati and Chicago papers of recent date ; condensed his-
tory of the church societies of Anderson; names of county officials and
the officials of the city of Anderson, past and present; specifications of
the court-house; roll of names of contractors, superintendents and
employees, and list of public works constructed by McCormack &
Sweeney; photographs of Colonel Nineveh Berry and William Roach,
the latter being at that time the oldest Mason in Madison county; a
group photograph of the county commissioners ; a picture of the old
court-house that was burned on December 10, 1880 ; photographic group
of eighty-one old settlers of Madison county, taken in 1877 ; samples
of grain raised in the county; a copy of Hardin's History of Madison
county ; a history of the Madison county schools ; the bar docket for the
June term, 1882 ; reports of various public officials and institutions, and
a number of other interesting relics.
On the face of the stone is a panel, in each comer of which is carved
a cluster of fruit or grain, and within the panel is the inscription :
A. D. 1882
BRUCE CARR,
G. M. of F. and A. M.
B. F. Aimen, 1 McCormack & Sweeney,
J. Bronnenberg, [Commissioners. Contractors.
J. F. Thurston,]
54 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
J. L. Forkner, J. E. Redmond,
Auditor. Superintendent.
G. W. Bunting, N. C. McCullough,
Architect. Local Superintendent.
In the records of a special session of the board of county commis-
sioners, held in February, 1885, is the following entry: "By agreement
with McCormack & Sweeney, contractors for the court-house, the com-
missioners are to take possession of such rooms and parts of the court-
house as they may desire, and such possession is not to be an acceptance
of the building or work thereon. And the board orders that the Madison
circuit court hold its sessions in the new court-house and that the
auditor, clerk, treasurer, recorder and sheriff be instructed to remove
their offices and all records and papers thereto belonging into the proper
rooms in the new court-house by Saturday evening, February 21, 1885."
Pursuant to this order the officers named removed their records, etc.,
to the rooms designated by the commissioners and a little later the
building was pronounced complete and was accepted by the commis-
sioners. Subsequently a raised roof was placed on the building, but
with this exception the court-house stands just as it left the hands of
the contractors in 1885. As the picture shows, it is one of the most
imposing court-houses in the state and is ample in eveiy particular for
the needs of the county for years to come.
Jails
On July 6, 1829, the county board "ordered that the agent of Madi-
son county sell to the lowest bidder the building of a jail in Anderson-
town, according to a plan adopted at the present session, on the 10th
or 11th day of this instant, to be finished within six months, requiring
bond and security for the performance of the building in a workman-
like manner, the bond to be taken in the penalty of double the amount
contracted for, towards the erecting of which building the board agrees
to appropriate the sum of $200, according to the corifideratidns of a
subscription signed at the January session of this board for 1829."
From this order it would appear that the citizens of Anderson sub-
scribed certain sums of money to aid in the erection of the public
buildings, but who the subscribers were, or what amounts they con-
tributed cannot be ascertained. Prior to the issuance of this order, the
prisoners of Madison county had been kept in the jails of the adjoining
counties. In March, 1830, an allowance of $4.81 was made to John
Rogers, the jailer of Henry county, for caring for four Madison county
prisoners. The jail erected under this order stood on the west side of
the public square, about where the west steps of the court-house are
now located. It was a log structure, sixteen feet square, a story and a
half high. The only entrance to the lower story was through a trap
door in ceiling, prisoners being let down from above by means of a
ladder and after they were safely lodged in the lower room the ladder
was withdrawn. It was torn down when the court-house was erected
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 55
in the public square, and from 1837 to 1842 all prisoners that were to
be confined for any length of time were taken to the Marion county
jail at Indianapolis.
Soon after the second court-house was completed, the board gave
notice that "sealed proposals will be received until the first Monday in
December next (1841) for the erection of a jail in Andersontown. "
It was also stipulated that the jail should be constructed of hewed oak
timber, twelve inches square, eighteen by twenty-two feet in dimensions
and two stories in height, the stories to be eight feet between floors, and
that it was to be built "on the public square west of the court-house,
the north side of the jail to be on a line with the north side of the
court-house." It was therefore on nearly the same spot as the former
jail. The cost of this second jail was $149 ; it was accepted by the com-
missioners at the June -term in 1842, and served the county for about
ten years, though it was never a very safe depository for a desperate
criminal and several persons confined within its walls succeeded with-
out much difficulty in making their escape. Accordingly, on March 24,
1852, the commissioners took the following action relative to a new jail :
"Whereas, it having been made known to the board of commissioners
of Madison county, that the jail house in said county has twice been
condemned by the grand jury of said county, that the same is unsafe
and in no way sufficient to answer the purposes intended, Therefore,
it is ordered by the board that it is actually necessary to build a new
house and also a dwelling house attached to said jail house; therefore,
John Davis, George ]\Iillspaugh and William Roach be, and they are
hereby appointed a building committee, and said building committee
are hereby authorized to draw a draft or drafts such as in their opinion
will be suitable and proper in every respect, both for the jail house and
wall and dwelling house thereunto belonging, for the inspection of
builders or contractors, and also said committee shall have power to
advertise in any way they may think best, giving notice that proposals
will be received for materials and construction of the same. Walls to be
built of good brick, the whole to be done under the superintendence of
the said building committee. And said building committee shall have
power to contract for the furnishing materials and constructing the
said building, giving the contract or contracts to the lowest responsible
bidder, and as soon as this is done the auditor shall be authorized to
convene the board of commissioners to confirm the same."
The committee decided upon a two-story, brick building, which was
erected at the northwest corner of Ninth and Jackson streets. It is stated
that they made their final report at the December session of the com-
missioners in 1852, but the records of that term make no mention of
the jail. Records are sometimes defective, however, and it is probable
that the building was completed within the year. This jail, like its
predecessors, in time became inadequate to the needs of the county and
the question of erecting a new one came before the commissioners.
Accordingly, in 1880, the old jail was sold and the board purchased
the lot at the northeast corner of Eighth street and Central avenue as
a site for a new county prison. Notice was given to architects, inviting
them to submit plans and specifications for the proposed new jail build-
56 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
ing. At a special session of the board in October, 1880, the proposition
of T. J. Tolin & Son, architects, was accepted. Bids for the erection
of the jail were then advertised for, the opportunity to submit proposals
remaining open until February 11, 1881, when the contract was awarded
to W. H. Myers & Son for $17,989. The building was completed in
1882, giving to Madison county a prison of modern character, one
from which but few escapes have ever been made, and they were due
rather to the carelessness of the jailer than to any defect in the con-
struction.
Change in Boundaries
As established by the organic act of January 4, 1823, Madison county
included all of the present county of Hancock, but the northern boundary
— the line between townships 20 and 21 north — excluded all that part
of the present county lying north of Lafayette and Richland townships.
Hancock county was erected under the act of January 26, 1827, Section 2
of which defined the boundaries of Madison county as follows :
"Hereafter, the county of Madison shall be bounded as follows,
to-wit : Beginning on the line dividing the counties of Henry and
Madison, one mile south of where the line dividing Townships 17 and
18 crosses the same ; thence north wdth said county line to the line
dividing Townships 22 and 23 : thence west to the iliami Reservation ;
thence south with the line of said Reservation to the southeast corner
of the same ; thence west until a line running south will strike the
northeast corner of Hamilton county ; thence south with said county
line to one mile south of the line dividing Townships 17 and 18 ; thence
east to the place of beginning. ' '
Section 4 of the same act provided that "All the territory lying
one mile south of the line dividing Townships 17 and 18, and within
the former bounds of Madison county, shall be, and the same is hereby,
organized and formed into the countj^ of Hancock," etc.
When Grant county was erected by the act of February 10, 1831, the
southern boundary was established as follows: "Beginning on the line
dividing the counties of Madison and Delaware, three miles north of the
township line dividing Townships 21 and 22, in Range 8 east ; thence
west to the west boundary thereof," and Section 7 of the act provided
"That the strip of land lying between the north line of the county of
Madison and the south line of the county of Grant be, and the same is
hereby, attached to the county of Madison."
By the act of January 15, 1833. the boundary between Henry county
and the counties of Madison and Hancock was tixed on "the fii-st section
line west of the range line dividing Ranges 8 and 9 east. ' '
As designated at present, the boundaries are as follows: "Com-
mencing at the southeast corner of Section 2, Township 17, Range 8 east,
on the west line of Henry county ; thence north on said line to the north-
east corner of Section 11, Township 22 north. Range 8 east; thence
west to the northwest corner of Section 9, Township 22, Range 6 east;
thence south to the southwest corner of Section 4, Township 17, Range
6 east; thence east to the place of beginning."
CHAPTER V
TOWNSHIP HISTORY
List of Civil Townships in the County — Early Records — Adams —
Anderson — Boone — Duck Creek — Fall Creek — Green — Pioneers
OF Each — Early Schools and Industries — Churches — Towns and
Villages — JIention of Prominent Citizens — Interesting Inci-
dents.
Madison county is divided into fourteen civil townships, to-wit:
Adams, Andei-son, Boone, Duck Creek, Fall Creek, Green, Jackson,
Lafayette, Monroe, Pipe Creek, Richland, Stony Creek, Union and Van
Buren. The oldest record of the proceedings of the county board that
can be found begins with the September session in 1828. At the January
term in 1829, it was ordered by the board "Tliat Isaac Jones, of Fall
Creek township ; James Scott, of Green ; Manly Richards, of Adams ;
Jeremiah Williams, of Anderson; and Andrew McClintock, of Jackson,
be, and they are hereby, appointed inspectors of elections in and for
their respective townships for the present year, ending on the first
Monday in January next."
At the same session James Noland and Evan Pugli were appointed
fence viewers for the township of Green ; John McKinzie and Charles
Doty, for Fall Creek; Moses Corwin and Moss Shane, for Adams;
Stephen Noland and Thornton Rector, for Anderson, and Colings Tharp
and Nehemiah Layton, for Jackson. In Januarj', 1830, these five to\vn-
ships were divided into sixteen road districts. Green township consti-
tuting districts Nos. 1 and 2 ; Fall Creek, Nos. 3, 4, 5 and 6 ; Adams,
Nos. 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 ; Anderson, Nos. 12, 13 and 14, and Jackson,
Nos. 15 and 16.
It is evident from these entries in the early records that the five
townships named therein had l)een organized sometime during the first
six years of the county's history, but in the absence of official records
the exact date of the establishment of each cannot be ascertained.
Adams Township
This township occupies the southeast corner of the county. In extent
it is seven miles from north to south, five miles from east to west, and
contains an area of thirty-five square miles. It is bounded on the
north by the townships of Union and Anderson; on the east by Henry
county; on the south by Hancock county, and on the west by Fall
Creek township. The general surface is rolling and the township is
57
58 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
watered by Fall creek and Lick creek, both of which flow westwardly
across the township, and several smaller streams, tributaries of the
above.
Adams is one of the first five townships organized in the county
and was named for Abraham Adams, who was the first white man to
settle within its present limits. He came with his family in 1823, the
year Madison county was organized, and located a short distance east of
the present village of Ovid, where he built a cabin of round logs, the
first house erected by civilized man in the township. Before the close
of the year he was joined by a man named Manl.y, and about the same
time came John and John T. Bridge, James Hudson, Thomas Harper
and Andrew Sawyer, the five men who were indicted by the grand .jury
in April, 1824, for the murder of two friendly Indians, with their
squaws and children, an account of which may be found in chapter
XVIII.
These early settlers sent back to their old homes such favorable
reports concerning the new country that during the next five years a
number of immigi-ants found homes in Adams township. Joseph and
Moses Surber and Abraham Blake came from Ohio in 1826; Anthony
Hill, also from Ohio, came in 1827, and in 1828 George Hudson and
his six sons — Eli, George, Isaiah, William, David and Jonathan — came
from Ohio. Thornton Rector, who had previously settled in Wajme
county, Indiana, likewise came in 1828. The nest year witnessed the
arrival of Hugh and John Gilmore, Samuel and L. D. Reger, Martin
Brown, the McCallisters — Thomas, William and Garrett — and a few
others. The Gilmores and McCallisters came from western Virginia.
Martin Brown and the two Regers were also from that state. Thomas
McCallister afterward served several terms in the Indiana legislature.
Other earl}' settlers were Levi Brewer, Joseph Ingles and Jesse
Martin, in 1830; William S. Gale and Colonel Thomas Bell, in 1831.
Colonel Bell subsequently served five terms in the legislature from
Madison county, or the district of which it constitutes a part. Follow-
ing these came Hezekiah Justice, Samuel Huston, Jacob Evans, Isaac
Cooper, Harvey Chase, William Prigg, Hiram Burch, John Copman,
Stephen and Henry Dobson, William Stanley, William Sloan, Ralph
Williams, Thomas Sbelton, John Markle, David Rice, William Nelson,
James Peden, Caleb Biddle, John Collier, Joseph Smith, John Borman,
Stephen Norman, William Penn, Reason Sargent, James Pearson, and
some others, all of whom had located in the township by 1835.
As already stated, the first log cabin in the township was built by
Abraham Adams in 1823. The first frame house was built by Friend
Brown, and in 1838 Morris Gilmore built the first brick house on what
is still known as the "Morris Gilmore farm." The first orchard was
planted by Abraham Adams in 1829, and, according to Kingman's
"History of Madison County," in the same year Enos Adamson estab-
lished a saw-mill on a small stream called Hasty 's branch. In 1835
Bailey Jackson began the erection of a saw-mill on Fall creek, at New
Columbus, but for some reason did not finish it. James Peden then
purchased the site and completed the mill in 1843. About that time the
Adamson mill was removed to Howard county. In the meantime Isaac
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 59
and Edmund Franklin had established a saw-mill on Fall creek, on
Section 15, in 1841. About two years later they put a grist-mill near
the saw-mill. The "Franklin Mills," as they were known far and wide,
did a successful business, under various owners, until they were de-
stroyed by fire in 1888.
The first steam saw-mill was built near the present village of Markle-
ville by Blake & Hudson in 1857. Six years later the proprietors sold
out and the purchaser removed the mill to Frankton. Abisha Lewis
and John Huston erected the second steam saw-mill in the early '70s. It
cost about $3,000 and at that time was conceded to be the best concern of
the kind in Madison county. It was located at Markleville. A shingle
machine was installed about two years after the mill was built and did
a thriving business for many years. Shortly after the Cincinnati,
"Wabash & Michigan (now the Big Four) Railroad was extended south-
ward from Anderson, a saw-mill was built at Emporia, a small station
two miles north of Markleville. But the valuable timber that was once
abundant in Adams township has almost disappeared and the prosper-
ous era of the saw-mill has passed.
The first election in Adams township was held at the house of
Abraham Adams. Later the voting place was changed to the house of
Manly Richards, where elections were held until 1830, when the county
commissioners designated a permanent voting place where the village
of Ovid is now located, though the town was not laid off by Abraham
Adams until four years later and named New Columbus.
It is stated, on apparently good authority, that the first school house in
the township was located on Section 19, about two miles south of Ovid,
and was a log structure, similar in size and design to other school
■houses of that day, but the date when it was built is uncertain. The
second school house, also a round-log building, stood at the east end of
what is now the village of Ovid. Kingman says this house was built in
182'4, which was the next year after Abraham Adams, the first settler,
located near the place. Other log school houses were built in different
parts of the to%\Tiship and subscription schools maintained until after
the passage of the school law of 1851. Then frame houses began to take
the place of the log ones, and in 1873 two brick school houses were
built — one at Ovid and one at ' Markleville. Four ye^rs later three
more brick houses were erected. In 1912 there were ten school districts,
each provided with a substantial brick house, the school property of the
township, exclusive of maps, libraries and other apparatus, being valued
at $20,900. The ten teachers employed in 1912-13 received $4,256 in
salaries.
The first religious services were usually held at the homes of Abraham
Adams, Reason Sargent and Peter Jones. A Baptist society was formed
in 1830 and a second organization of this faith was effected in 1834.
The Methodists held services at the houses of Stephen Noland and
Ralph Williams, and in the school houses, for many years before they
erected a church building in 1856, near Markleville. - A Christian
church was organized in 1848; a Lutheran church some time in the
'50s ; a German Baptist church in 1860, and a congregation of the
Church of God in 1887. (See chapter on Church History.)
60
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The principal villages of Adams township are Alliance, Emporia
and Markleville on the line of the Big Four Railway — ilichigan division
— and Ovid (formerly New Columbus), a short distance west of the
railroad.
Anderson Township
This township, like Adams, is one of the first five to be organized in
the county. It is situated a little southeast of the center of the county
and is bounded on the north by the townships of Lafayette and Rich-
land ; on the east by Union ; on the south by Adams and Fall Creek, and
on the west by Jackson and Stony Creek. In extent it is six miles
square, having an area of thirty-six square miles, or 23,040 acres. The
Moss Island Mills
White river enters the township about midway on the eastern bound-
ary and flows a general northwesterly course, crossing the western
boundary about one mile south of the northwest corner. Its principal
tributary in the township is the Killbuck creek, which empties into the
river at Anderson.
Located on the White river about three miles west of Anderson, are
the old Moss Island Mills, one of the landmarks of Madison county.
These mills were built by Joseph MuUinix in 1836, long before the
advent of the railroad, but since that time have been owned by at least
fourteen different firms or individuals, some of the owners having been
prominent in business and social life, as well as in political affairs. The
mills, in their palmy days, consisted of a flour mill — large for that day
— with a saw-mill attached, power for both being furnished by a large
water-wheel. They were built with a view to catching the trade that
followed the construction of the old Indiana Central canal, the western
branch of which passed near the mills. With the decadence of the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 61
canal, the building of the railroads and the introduction of improved
machinery and methods in the manufacture of flour, the old Moss
Island mills fell into disuse and they now stand silent and deserted near
the beautiful little island which gave them their name.
When the first white men came to Anderson township they found
the region heavily timbered, but nearly all the valuable timber has
found its way to the log-heap or the saw-mill to make way for the culti-
vated fields of the husbandman. The surface is generally level or
slight!}' undulating. Near Jlounds park, about three miles above An-
derson, the bluffs along the White river rise to a height of some seventy-
five feet above the level of the stream and are the greatest elevations in
the township.
Among the names of the early settlers, that of John Berry stands
preeminent. He came to the county in March, 1821, and entered a
tract of land where the city of Anderson now stands, part of which
he aftei-ward donated to the county to secure the location of the county
seat at that point, as stated in the preceding chapter. About the same
time that Mr. Berry settled at Anderson, Eli Harrison selected a farm
on tlie White river not far from Berry's, and William Stogdon (or
Stockton) also settled in the vicinity. Other early settlers were John
and Christopher Davis, Daniel Harpold, the contractor who built the
first court-house, William and Isaac Young, William Allen, William
Curtis, the first agent of the county, Samuel Kinnamon and David
Williams. About the time the county was organized, or perhaps a
little earlier, the population^ of what is now Anderson township was
increased by the arrival of Benjamin Sumpter, John Renshaw, David
Harris, Philip Shinkle, Jacob Stover, Benjamin Ridgeway and some
others. The descendants of some of these pioneers still reside in the
township and are numbered among its best citizens.
The first school house in the township was a log structure that
stood on what is now Central avenue, between Tenth and Eleventh
streets, in the city of Anderson. The first school was taught here in
1836 by Richard Treadwaj^ and later Nineveh Berry taught in the same
house. In 1912 there weje eleven school districts in the township,
outside of the city of Anderson, and the school houses were valued
at $25,000. In the eleven districts sixteen teachers were employed
during the school year of 1912-13 at an aggregate salary of $7,900.
Anderson is not the only town that was ever laid out or projected
within the limits of the township. In 1838, while the Indiana Central
canal was under construction, John Renshaw laid out a town on the
north side of the White river, where the Anderson cemetery is now
located, and gave it the name of Victoria. As far as can be learned
but one house — a log cabin — was ever erected on the town site. When
work on the canal was suspended Mr. Renshaw disposed of the land and
the town of Victoria has been practically forgotten.
Another canal town was projected by J. W. Alley, who laid out
Rockport, about two miles west of Anderson on the Perkinsville pike,
or Strawtown road, and a little southeast of the old Moss Island mills.
Like Victoria, it never came up to the anticipations of its founder and
the land afterward passed into the hands of J. W. Sansberry, Sr., who
62 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
opened a stone quarry on the site. Rockport boasted of several houses
at one time, but they have all been removed or sank into decay.
The village of Omaha, situated near the line of the Big Four rail-
road in the southern part of the township, was laid out some years
before the railroad was built southward from Anderson. Eli Gustin
had a saw-mill there and a store was conducted for some time by George
Darrow, who afterward went to Denver, Colorado, but returned to
Indiana ?ind located at Montpelier, Blackford county. With the dis-
appearance of the timber and the removal of the saw-mill, Omaha ceased
to exist.
As much of the history of Anderson township naturally belongs, to
the city of Anderson, hence many of the important events that occurred
from time to time in this township are treated in the chapter relating to
the city.
Boone Township
This township is situated in the northern tier and is bounded on
the north by Grant county ; on the east by Van Buren township ; on the
south by the townships of Monroe and Pipe Creek, and on the west
by Duck Creek township. In extent it is five miles from north to south
and six miles from east to west, containing an area of thirty square
miles, or 19,200 acres. It was named in honor of Daniel Boone, the
historic Kentucky pioneer and celebrated Indian fighter.
The exact date when Boone township was organized cannot be ascer-
tained at this late day. Kingman's and Forkner & Dyson's histories
of Madison county both state that the first election in the township was
held in September, 1843, at a log school house near the site afterward
occupied by the Tomlinson school house, and it is probable that the
organization of the township was authorized some time earlier in that
year. The main reason why the township was so late in being organ-
ized was that the northwestern part of Madison county, including nearly
all the western half of Boone and the northern two-thirds of Duck
Creek townships, lay within the Miami Indian reservation, which was
not vacated by the natives uniil several years after the county was
organized. With the departure of the red man the white settlers came
in and it was then not long until civil townships were established.
The honor of being the first white man to establish a home in what
is now Boone township belongs to Wright. Smith, a native of North
Carolina, who upon coming to Indiana first settled in Rush county, but
in 1836 removed to Madison county and located on the southwest quarter
of Section 35, near the southern boundary of the township. He and
his family lived in a tent until a cabin could be erected. Mr. Smith
died on this farm on December 23, 1863. Soon after locating there he
was joined by his brother-in-law, Thomas Brunt. These two men went
to the land office at Fort Wayne and entered the lands upon which they
had located, Brunt's farm being the southwest quarter of Section ^24,
about two miles up Lilly creek from Smith 's, where he died on December
31, 1879. Brunt first rented a cabin from a Mrs. Ballance, in what is
now the northern part of Monroe township, and did not move to his
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
63
land until some months later. Not long after these two had located
land in Boone township, James Brunt, the father of Thomas, and his
son-in-law, John Moore, came from Rush county, where they had first
located upon coming from North Carolina. They entered land on Lilly
creek, between Wright Smith and Thomas Brunt.
Other pioneers were John and James Tomlinson, Elijah "Ward, Hugh
Dickey, Morgan and Enoch McMahan, Peter Eaton, Dudley and George
Doyle and Bazaliel Thomas, from North Carolina; Robett "Webster,
from Delaware; John "W. Forrest, Benjamin Sebrell and Micajah
Francis, from "Virginia.
During the first ten years following the coming of Wright Smith
and Thomas Brunt, the settlement made but little progress in the way
of an increase in population. But in 1847 a number of immigrants
founded homes in the township. Among them were William Sehooley,
Andrew Taggart, Jesse Windsor, William Hyatt and a man named
Boone Township Hay
Purtee, who was the first white man in the township to settle on the
Miami Indian reservation, which became a favorite place with those
who came a little later. The farm entered by Mr. Purtee is the south-
east quarter of Section 21, on Duck creek, near the center of the town-
ship.
Mention has already been made of the first township election in
September, 1843. At that election Peter Eaton was inspector and
Dudley Doyle and Morgan B. McMahan were elected justices of the
peace for a term of five years. At the expiration of the term Doyle was
reelected, but John Tomlinson was chosen to succeed Mr. McMahan.
64 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The firpt M-hite child bom in Boone township was Joseph Taylor
Smith, son of Wright Smith, the first settler. He grew to manhood
in the township, served with distinction as a soldier in the Civil war
as captain of a company in the Seventy-fifth Indiana infantry and
afterward practiced law for several years at Anderson, when he removed
to Manhattan, Kansas.
The first marriage was solemnized on April 18, 1838, when Miss
Sarah Eaton became the wife of Dudley Doyle, and the first death was
that of John Huff, who was killed by a falling tree in 1843. The second
death, that of Mrs. Mary Doyle, wife of Adam Doyle, occurred on
January 21, 1844.
About 1840 a log school house was built on the farm of John Moore.
It was a rude structure of round logs, with clapboard roof and door,
a dirt floor, a huge fireplace at one end, and was without windows. This
was the first school house in the township and the first school was taught
there by James Smith, a son of Wright Smith. In 1852, after the
enactment of the school law of the preceding year, Thomas Brunt,
Benjamin Sebrell and M. L. Overshiner, the township trustees, erected
four or five log school houses at different points, and it is from that
time that the educational history of the township really marks its
beginning. In 1912 there were eight school districts in Boone, each
equipped with a modern brick school building, the value of the eight
houses being estimated at $10,700. The amount paid in teachers' sala-
ries for the school year of 1912-13 was $3,598.
A Methodist class was organized in 1851 and two years later a
Sunday school was opened, with Wright Smith as superintendent. A
meeting was held at the house of John W. Forrest in 1853 for the
purpose of organizing a Baptist congregation, but no house of worship
was erected until four years later.
Boone township has no towns or villages of importance. In the
extreme northwest corner, a part of the village of Independence lies in
this township, the other portions being situated in Duck Creek township,
Madison county, and the townships of Green and Liberty, in Grant
county. A postofifice called Rigdon was once maintained here, but with
the introduction of free rural mail delivery it was discontinued.
Forrestville was laid out on July 24, 1850, by John W. Forrest, on
Section 21, a little west of the center of the township. Several dwell-
ings and a church were erected, a general store was opened and a post-
office was established, but they have all disappeared and the site of the
town is now used for agricultural purposes.
Benjamin Clark laid out a town on Section 13, near the Van Buren
township line, and gave it thfe name of Clarktown. It never grew to
any considerable proportions and a small general store was its only
business enterprise.
Game was plentiful in the early days and the pioneers depended
chiefly upon their rifles for their supply of meat. Venison and wild
turkey, now esteemed as luxuries, were then common articles of diet.
The last wild deer seen in Madison county was killed in this township
by Morgan Sebrell on November 24, 1871, while he and Timothy IMet-
calf were out hunting together. It was a large buck with seven prongs
on each antler. Mr. Sebrell preserved the antlers as a tronhy, and as
reminder of the last deer killed in the county.
HISTORY OF xMADISON COUNTY 65
Duck Creek Township
On Januan- 23, 1851, the following: petition was presented to the
board of commissioners of Madison county :
"We, the undersigned, citizens of Pipe Creek township, in said
county, showeth by this, our petition, that we labor under incon-
veniences in regard to the size of our township, we therefore request
you to strike off a township from the north end of Pipe Creek of the
following dimensions, to-wit : Commencing at the northwest corner of
Section 9, Township 21 north, of Range 6 east; running thence east
four miles to the range line; thence north to the county line; thence west
to the county line ; thence south to the place of beginning, to be called
Dtick Creek township."
This petition was signed by James Gray, Fielding Sampson, James
Casteel and fifteen others, residents within the proposed new township.
No action was taken on the petition at that session, but at the following
term the subject again came up for consideration and the minutes for
March 6, 1851, contain the following entry :
"And now, at this time, after due deliberation has been had thereon,
the board now in session accept said petition and order and direct that
a new township be laid oiit and organized as follows: All of Con-
gressional Township No. 22 north of Range 6 east that lies within
the limits of Madison county, and Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4 in Township
No. 21 north of Range 6 east, in said county f being four miles wide
and six miles long), shall compose said township, and all that part
which now lies in Pipe Creek township, is hereby stricken from and
curtailed from said Pipe Creek township and made a part of Duck
Creek township, as above set forth, for all township purposes. And it is
hereby ordered by the board that on the first Jlonday in April next
(1851) there shall be an election held in said township of Duck Creek
at the Bethel meeting house for the necessary township officers, to-wit :
Two justices of the peace, two constables, one supervisor to each road
district, a township clerk and township treasurer, and any other town-
ship officers authorized by law. ' '
At the same time David Waymire was appointed inspector of the
election and the new township was divided into four road districts.
The boundaries as established in 1851 have not been changed and the
township remains as originally erected. It occupies the northwest
corner of the county, has an area of twenty-four square miles, or 15,360
acres, and is bounded on the north by Grant county ; on the east by the
townships of Boone and Pipe Creek; on the south by Pipe Creek town-
ship, and on the west by Tipton county. Duck creek, from which the
township takes its name, flows in a southerly direction through the
southern part and is the only stream of any consequence in the township.
The settlement of Duck Creek township began in the fall of 1838,
when Henry Cochran came from Butler county, Ohio, and selected a
tract of laud on Section 35, about three miles northeast of the present
city of Elwood. Upon this tract he built a log cabin and then went back
to Ohio, where he remained for a year, at the end of which time he
returned to Indiana with his father and took up his residence on the
Vol. 1—5
66 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
land. Later in the year 1836 Thomas Casteel and Elijah Berryman
settled on Section 3, a short distance southwest of Cochran. During
the next ten years there were few additions to the population. In the
summer of 1848 A. C. Ritter, a native of Ohio, made the first entry of
land on the Miami reserve in Duck Creek township and from that time
the settlement of the region was more rapid. Among those who came
prior to the organization of the township were Fielding Sampson, James
Gray, Anthony Minnick, Azel Stanberry, David and Elliott Waymire,
Thomas W. Harmon, Mahlon Hosier, James French and Isaac Dough-
erty. Stephen Williamson, a veteran of the Mexican war, was also one
of the early settlers.
Previous to 1846, the only dwellings to be seen in the township were
the log cabins usually found in frontier settlements. In 1846 Thomas
Casteel built a frame house and his example was soon followed by sev-
eral of his neighbors. The first brick house was built by Jonathan Noble
in 1872, near the northeast corner of the township. In the spring of
1843, Thomas Casteel and Henry Cochran both planted orchards, the
first in the township. The first white child born in the township was
James, son of Thomas and Elizabeth Casteel, who was born on Novem-
ber 9, 1842. The first wedding was on December 26, 1844, when Henry
Cochran and Miss Rebecca Casteel were united in marriage, and the first
death was that of Samuel Cochran on September 11, 1844. He was
the father of Henry Cochran and was quite old at the time of his death.
James Shofer and Anthony Minnick were the first progressive, up-to-
date farmers in the township. The Minnick farm was a model in all
respects and stood alone in its appointments in the forests that sur-
rounded it.
Among the early industries was a steam saw-mill, erected near
Henry Cochran's place about 1850 by Jacob E. Waymire, who con-
ducted it successfully for over fifteen years. In 1866 the 'mill was pur-
chased by Henry Cochran, who carried on the business at the old place
until 1873, when his son Samuel was admitted to a partnership and the
machinery w*s taken to Elwood and installed in a new mill there. In
1875 a steam saw-mill was established in the northwestern part of the
township by G. & V. Worley, who later sold out to William & J. B.
HoUingsworth and the mill was removed to the Hollingsworth farm,
about half a mile farther south. William Hedrick also owned and
operated a large saw-mill at one time on his farm, about two miles east
of the Hollingsworths.
The first school house, a round log affair of the customary frontier
type, was built in 1841 on the Knott farm, in the southern part of the
township. A few years later it was moved about a mile farther north,
where the school house in District No. 2 is now located. The second
school house was erected in 1853 on Isaac Wann "s farm, on or near the
present site of school No. 1. In 1912 there were seven public school
houses in the township,, five of which were brick and two were frame, the
value of the buildings being $14,000. Eight teachers were employed
during the school year of 1912-13 and the amount paid in salaries was
$3 500.
' The first church in the township was built by the United Brethren
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 67
about the time the society of that denomiuation was organized in 1852.
A little later the New Light Christians united with the United Brethren
in the erection of a better house of worship on the farm of W. F. Hol-
lingsworth. Subsequently congregations of the Christian and Methodist
Episcopal faith were organized in the township.
With the exception of Independence, which has been mentioned in
the preceding history of Boone township, there are no villages in Duck
Creek township. A portion of this village is situated in the extreme
northeast corner. The inhabitants of the southern part of the town-
ship find it convenient to "do their trading" at El wood, the northern
line of which touches the southern border of Duck Creek township.
It may be interesting to the reader to know that the last entry of
land in Madison county was that of a forty-acre tract in Duck Creek
township. This tract is described as the southeast quarter of the north-
west quarter of section 21, township 22, range 6 east, and is situated
three miles due north of Elwood. It was purchased from the state
of Indiana by David Braden, of Indianapolis, for $50. His patent,
dated October 22, 1875, states that the sale was made "under the act
of May 29, 1852, entitled 'An act to regulate the sale of the swamp
lands donated by the United States to the State of Indiana, and to
provide for the draining and reclaiming thereof,' " etc.
The first time this tract of land appears in the public records was
on October 28, 1872, when it was sold by David K. Carver, sheriff of
Madison county, to satisfy an assessment of $175.50, with costs of
$30.33, for the construction of the Wild Cat ditch. On this occasion
the land was taken as the property of Joseph Sigler, but the records do
not show how Sigler came into possession, or by what right he claimed
the ownership of the land. At the sheriff's sale above mentioned the
land was bought by Howell D. Thompson, of Anderson, for $100. At
the time the tract was purchased by Braden from the state it was in the
possession of William A. Sheward. There was some kind of litigation
over the land, but owing to the destruction of the court records by the
courthouse tire of December 10, 1880, the exact nature of the case can-
not be learned. It is certain, however, that Braden 's title was sus-
tained, for on February 1, 1879, he transferred the land to Howell D.
Thompson, who on the same day conveyed it back to Mr. Sheward.
Fall Creek Township
Soon after Madison county was organized the local authorities erected
five townships, one of which was named Fall Creek, from the principal
stream flowing through it and the natural falls on that stream at Pen-
dleton. Fall Creek is the third largest township in the county, being
exceeded in size only by Monroe and Pipe Creek. In extent it is six
miles from east to west and seven miles from north to south, contain-
ing an area of forty-two square miles. On the north it is bounded by
Anderson and Stony Creek townships; on the east by Adams; on the
south by Hancock county, and on the west by the townships of Green
and Stony Creek. Fall creek flows in a southwesterly direction through
the central part and the southern portion is watered by Lick creek.
68 HISTORY OF MADISON COrXTY
The surface is genrally slightly undulating or roUin.ii and the soil
compares tavoral)ly with that of the adjoining townshijjs.
To Fall Creek belongs the distinction of being the first in Jladison
county to be settled liy white men. In a previous chapter mention has
been made of John Rogers as the first white man to locate in the county.
An old diary left by him is authority for the statement that he settled
in what is now Fall Creek township on December 29, 1818, about two
miles east of the present town of Pendleton. More than likely the
vicinity of the falls had been visited by white men before that time,
but none of them attempted to form a permanent settlement. A year
or so after Mr. Rogers came, Judge Stanfield and a man named Burras
settled upon the prairie north of Pendleton. In 1820 came the colony
from Clarke county, Ohio, consisting of William Curtis, Israel Cox,
Moses Corwin, Thomas and William ^IcCartnej', Saul Shaul, Manly
Richards and Elias IloUingsworth. ilrs. Hollingsworth accompanied
her husband and was the first white woman in that settlement, if not in
I
I
Falls at Pendleton
Madison county. Moses Corwin was the only unmarried man in the
colony. After selecting lands the married men returned to Ohio and
brought out their families, traveling with four pack horses and a wagon
drawn by a team of oxen. That wagon was doubtless the first ever
brought to the county. Manly Richards evidently settled in what is
now Adams township, or soon afterward removed there, as the records
show that some of the early elections in Adams township wei-e held at
his residence.
Among the next settlers to come into the township were Isaac Jones,
Conrad Crossley, Adam Dobson, William, Isaac and Henry Seybert,
William Neal, Jacob Shaul, Thomas and William Silver, Palmer Pat-
rick, Kilbourn Morley, John Gunse, Nathaniel Richmond and Adam
Winsell, the last named becoming one of the first associate judges when
the county was organized in 1823. About that time there was a large
influx of immigration to Fall Creek township, and F. M. Richmond,
Moses Whitecotton, Thomas and James Scott, Enos Adamson, Thomas
Snyder, Joseph Carter, George Nicholson, Martin Chapman, Isaac and
HISTORY OK .MADISON COrXTY 69
Thomas Busby, James Irish, Dr. Lewis Bordwell, Thomas Bell, Dr.
Henry Wyman and Thomas M. Pendleton, for whom the town of Pen-
dleton was named, and a number of others located at various points along
the Fall creek valley.
One of these pioneers — Moses Whitecotton — was an eccentric char-
acter who preferred poetry to prose. He was one of the first justices
of the peace in Fall Creek and it is said kept his court docket in rhyme.
Uufortunately his old records have disappeared. Once, when his stock
of provisions ran low, he addressed the following pathetic appeal to
his neighbor, John Rogers :
"My family is sick, with nothing to eat,
I pray you the loan of two bushels of wheat ;
This favor, if granted, shall ne'er be forgotten,
As long as my name is Moses Whitecotton."
Mr. Rogers responded to the plea, as any good neighbor would have
done in those pioneer days, and in acknowledgment of his obligation
Mr. Whitecotton executed a note in the following strain :
"One day after date I promise to pay
To old John Rogers, without delay.
One hundred weight of hemp when I make it and break it.
One dollar I shall not deny ;
Witness my name this 4th of July.
Moses Whitecotton."
One of the first land entries was made by Saul Shaul, who took up
a part of section 30, about two miles southwest of Pendleton, where he
developed a farm and planted what was probably the first orchard in
the county. Nathaniel Richmond, Adam Winsell, John Gunse and
John Rogers had all planted orchards by 1824, their trees having been
brought from Henry county. Early in the '30s William Williams
established a nursery on liis farm about three miles east of Pendleton,
the first nursery in Madison county.
The first white child born in the township, and also the first in
Madison county, was E. P. Hollingsworth, a son of Elias Hollings-
worth and his wife, the date of his birth having been November 7, 1820.
Electa Shaul, daughter of Jacob Shaul, born the same night, was the
first white female child born in the county.
Stephen Corwin and Miss Hannah Ellsworth were united in mar-
riage in 1821, which was the first wedding in the township. As Madi-
son county had not yet been organized, ^Ir. Corwin made the journey
on horseback to Connersville to procure a marriage license. Furniture
was scarce at that time in frontier settlements like the one on Fall
creek and it is said that a door was lifted from its hinges and converted
into a table, upon which the wedding banquet was served.
The first deaths were those of a man named ]\Iartin and his wife,
both of whom were stricken with fever in the fall of 1821 and it is sup-
posed died about the same time, but as they were alone in their home at
70 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the time it is not known which one died first. Their neighbors knew
nothing of their illness and they had been dead for several days before
the fact was discovered. Their bodies were buried in the same grave,
immediately west of the present town of Pendleton. This first visit of
the Grim Destroyer, and the fact that his victims died unattended, cast
a gloom over the little settlement, where it was part of each man's
religion to minister to the wants of his neighbor in times of sickness
and distress.
A corn mill was built by Thomas McCartney on the south side of
Fall creek at the falls in 1821, the first in the township. It was a
crude affair, as Jlr. ^McCartney dressed the stone and constructed most
of the machinery himself, but primitive as it was it proved a great boon
to the settlers, who were thus given an opportunity to have their corn
ground at home, but for wheat flour they were still compelled to go
some distance to the mills in the older settlements. Mr. McCartney
also kept a small stock of goods, consisting of a few staple articles in
demand among the pioneers, and a line of trinkets — beads, cheap jew-
elry, small looking glasses, etc. — adapted to trade with the Indians.
He likewise started a tannery in 1827.
In course of time the McCartney mill gave way to a larger and bet-
ter appointed one, built by Thomas Bell on the opposite side of the
creek and equipped for grinding both corn and wheat. The falls are
situated upon section 16, set apart by Congress for school purposes,
but that portion of the section including the falls was bought by James
M. Irish of the county treasurer at a sale of school lands, and later Mr.
Irish became the owner of the mill erected by Mr. Bell. Sometime
in, the '30s he transferred the property to his son, Samuel D. Irish,
and went to Texas. In 1848 he returned to Madison county, where he
remained for about a year, when he again went to Texas and died there.
He was a man of progressive ideas, very dark complexioned, on account
of which he was called "Black Hawk" by his neighbors. This mill,
known as the "Cataract Mills," was destroyed by fire on July 13, 1882.
About 1850 a movement was started to restore the falls property to
the school fund, but the period of twenty years peaceable possession
had about expired and definite action in the matter was postponed
until it was too late.
]\Iost of the early settlers were of a religious turn of mind and soon
after locating in the township they took the necessary steps for the
establishment of church organizations. The first Methodist church had
its beginning in 1823, though no house of worship was erected until
1839. Antioch Methodist church, at Menden, was organized in 1831 ;
a Baptist church about 1830; the society of Friends or Quakers in 1834;
the United Brethren in 1836, and the Universalists in 1859. An ac-
count of these different congregations will be found in the chapter on
Church History.
In a grove a short distance below the falls, Frederick Douglass, a
negro of national reputation, in 1843 undertook to deliver a public
address on the subject of slavery. He was at that time making a tour
of the western states, stopping at places where there were a number of
Friends, who were universally recognized as abolitionists. Unable to
72 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
secure a hall, a platform was erected in the grove, but Mr. Douglass
had been speaking Ijut a short time when a man named Rix walked up
to the stand and called upon his associates — Duke Scott, Thomas Col-
lins, Peter Runnels and some others — to "come and help clean him
out." Douglass was alarmed and tried to escape by climbing over a
fence immediately back of the platform, but before he could do so
was struck by a stone and severely injured. His friends took him to the
home of Neal Hardy, where he remained until he recovered and it was
deemed safe for him to leave the neighborhood.
The incident caused considerable excitement. Some of the leaders of
the mob were arrested, but while the sheriff was conducting them to
Anderson he was met by a company of men who demanded the release
of the prisoners. For a time it looked as though serious trouble was
imminent. The release of Runnels was finally agreed to and the mob
disbanded. The other prisoners were taken to Anderson and lodged in
jail, but were subsequently released. Since that time public opinion
has changed and a colored man is as free from assault or insult in
Madison county as anywhere in the United States.
Just when and where the first schoolhouse in Fall Creek township
was erected is largely a matter of conjecture. The early settlers be-
lieved in education, however, and subscription schools were maintained
until after the enactment of the school law of 1851. Then a number
of frame school houses were built, one of which was still in use as late
as 1880. In 1876 two brick school houses were erected — one in district
No. 1 and the other in district No. 5. In 1912 there were eleven dis-
tricts in the township outside of Pendleton, but as several of these had
been consolidated there were but nine teachers employed in 1912-13, a
number of the old houses standing vacant. The amount paid in teach-
ers' salaries for the year was $5,188.78.
Pendleton, a little west of the center, and Huntsville, about a mile
up Fall creek from Pendleton, are the only towns of importance in
Fall Creek township. At the intersection of two public highways,
three and a half miles south of Pendleton, was once the village of Men-
den. A general store was established there by Thomas Jordan at an
early day and the village grew up around the store. Jordan sold out
to Morgan Drury and about that time a postoffiee was established there
with Mr. Drury as the first postmaster. The postoffiee was discon-
tinued in 1851, Jonathan Wiseman then being in charge of the office as
postmaster. Public school No. 11, the United Brethren church, the
cemetery and one dwelling constitute all that is left of the old village.
Green Township
Green township occupies the southwest corner of the county, is four
miles in width from east to west, six miles long from north to south,
and contains an area of twenty-four square miles, or 15,360 acres,
nearly all of which is capable of being cultivated. It is bounded on
the north by Stony Creek township; on the east by Fall Creek town-
ship; on the south by Hancock county, and on the west by the county
of Hamilton. The source of its name is uncertain. Many think it was
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNT i^ 73
named for Nathaniel Greene, one of the leading generals in the Con-
tinental army during the Revolutionary war, but as the name of the
township always appears in the records without the final "e," it is
quite likely that it was derived from the verdure of the forests that
practically covered the entire surface at the time the township was
organized in 1826.
The first white man to settle within the present limits of the town-
ship was Jacob Hiday, wlio in 1821 came from Ohio with his wife, four
children — Catharine, Henrj', Susan and Mary — and a grandson, Thomas
Hiday. Mr. Hiday settled on the south side of Lick creek, on section
2, township 17, range 6, not far from where the village of Alfont was
afterward laid out. He was a man of strong character and, though old
enough to be a grandfather at the time he came to Madison county, took
an active part in public affairs. He was one of the early justices of the
peace and was a leader in .securing many of the improvements in the
township in early days.
Samuel HoUiday, who was one of the first associate judges of the
county, came from Kentucky in 1822 and located about half a mile
north of Mr. Hiday. He was in all probability the second settler.
Judge Holliday was a well educated man and as associate judge made
a good record. His son, William A., became a Presbyterian minister
of note, and Joseph, another son, served with distinction in the ^Mexican
war and later represented Blackford county in the Indiana legislature.
After serving as associate judge for several years, Samuel Holliday
removed to Hamilton county and died there in 1835.
The settlement of the township was slow for a few years. In 1825
William Huston came from Virginia and Richard Kinnaman from
South Carolina. The next year witnessed the arrival of Abraham
Cottrell, a native of Ohio, and during the next five years there were a
number of newcomers. Among them were Andrew Shanklin, Walter
Kinnanftn, John and Charles Doty, Peter Colerick, John Cottrell, John
Huston, Thomas Scott, Elijah Bolinger, Samuel Gibson, William A.
Williamson, William Nicholson, Robert Fausset, James Jones, William
Alfont, George Keffer and Washington W. Pettigrew.
Most of these early settlers were from Virginia, South Carolina or
Tennessee, though the Dotys came from Pennsylvania and William
Nicholson from Ohio. Near the close of the Mexican war Mr. Nichol-
son raised a company of volunteers, but the war closed before his com-
pany could be accepted and mustered in. At the time of the Civil war
he was captain of a company of home-guards and was one of the first
militia officers in the state to tender the services of himself and his men
to repel the invasion of the notorious Confederate guerrilla, General
John H. Morgan.
One of the most prominent of these pioneers of Green township was
Andrew Shanklin, who came from Virginia with his family in 1830
and located on section 13, in the northeastern part of the township.
He soon became a leader in the little community ; was elected justice of
the peace in 1840; was a delegate to the constitutional convention in
1850, and two years later was elected to represent Madison county in
the lower branch of the state legislature. Samuel Gibson, a Tennesseean,
74 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
was also a prom'.nent citizen of Green and served as justice of the peace
for a number of years.
The first orchard was planted by Richard Kinnaman in 1826. Jacob
Hiday, Samuel Holliday, George Keffer, Abraham Cottrell and James
Scott all planted orchards a little later, obtaining their trees at Mal-
lory's nursery in Hamilton county, not far from Noblesville.
The first distillery was established by Richard Kinnaman in 1840,
and the first tan-yard by Captain William Nicholson four years later.
Kinnaman 's distillery was located on section 21, near the western
boundary, and Nicholson's tan-yard was on the northeast quarter of
the same section.
The first school house was built in 1829, on the farm of James Jones,
and a fund was raised by subscription to employ John Wilson, as the
first teacher. He taught three months in the winter of 1829-30, which
was the first school ever taught in the township. The second school
house was built in 1837, on section 25, near the eastern boundary, and
John Lewark taught the first school in this house the ensuing winter.
A frame house was afterward built on the site. In 1912 there were
seven brick school buildings valued at $14,000, and the nine teachers
employed during the school year of 1912-13 received in salaries the
sum of $4,936.
Ingalls is the only town of importance in the township. The vil-
lage of Alfont, a short distance west of Ingalls, was laid out by Wil-
liam Alfont about 1850. Some fifteen years before that time Mr. Alfont
had established a small sawmill on Lick creek, from which power was
procured to run the mill. This mill was burned in 1847, but was
replaced by a steam mill, which did a successful business for a number
of years. A few persons settled in the immediate vicinity and when
the old Belief ontaine (now the Cleveland division of the Big Four)
railroad was completed across the southeast corner of Green township,
Mr. Alfont had a town regularly platted and named it after himself.
For a time the venture prospered. A postoffice was established with
William Molden as postmaster. Mr. Molden was also engaged in busi-
ness as a general merchant. A warehouse was erected and a consider-
able quantity of grain was shipped. Other business enterprises came
in, but when Fortville, two miles west, came into prominence it proved
to be the greater attraction and the growth of Alfont suffered a decided
check thereby. With the establishment of Ingalls, only half a mile
away, in 1893, Alfont passed into history.
CHAPTER VI
TOWNSHIP HISTORY, Continued
Jackson — Lafayette — Monkoe — Pipe Creek — Richland — Stony
Creek — Union — Van Buren — Settlement and Organization of
Each — Early Schools and Churches — ^Mention op Prominent
Pioneers — Primitive Industries and Roads — Extinct Towns and
Villages, Etc.
Jackson Township
Jackson is the middle township of the western tier. It is bounded
on the north by Pipe Creek and Lafayette townships; on the east by
Lafayette and Anderson ; on the south by Stony Creek township, and
on the west by Hamilton county, and contains an area of twenty-eight
Square miles. The White river flows across the township from east to
west in the southern part, the northwestern part is watered by Pipe creek
and its tributaries, and Stony creek has its source in the southeast comer.
Along the streams the surface is rather hilly, but farther back it is so
level that artificial drainage is necessary in order to bring the exceed-
ingly fertile soil under cultivation. Jackson is one of the first five
townships to be organized in thfe county and was named after General
Andrew Jackson, who was president of the United States from 1829 to
1837.
Sometime in the year 1821 two men named Dewey and Kinser, with
their families, came to what is now Jackson township. Mr. Dewey built
his cabin on the south side of the White river, opposite the present vil-
lage of Perkinsville, and Kinser located about a mile and half farther
up the river. Neither of these men entered land, nor did they remain
long in the county. In the spring of 1822 Daniel Wise came from Rosa
county, Ohio, and the following October entered four hundred acres of
land on the south side of the river, including the cabin that had been
occupied by Kinser the preceding year. This was the first entry of
land made in the township. Prior to that time, however, Benoni Freel
had cleared land and built a cabin opposite Perkinsville, not far from
the Dewey cabin, and it is believed that he was the first actual settler.
Others who came during the year 1822 were the Montgomerj's —
David, William and John-^George Cunningham and Robert Blair, all
from Ohio.- During the next three years a number of pioneers located
lands in the township. Among them were Thomas Forkner, James
White, the two John Connors (senior and junior). Matthew Connor,
James, Alexander and George ]\IcClintock, Lemuel Auter, Joseph Lee
75
76
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and William Parkins. The last named, with his wife and seven chil-
dren, came in the fall of 1825 and pitched his tent on the north bank of
the White river, where Perkinsville now stands, and remained there
until he leased a tract of land from Daniel Wise and built a cabin, into
which he moved his family about Christmas. Mr. Parkins preached the
first funeral sermon in the township over the remains of a young man
who was killed by the falling of a burning tree in a clearing. He was
also a blacksmith, as well as a preacher, and soon after becoming set-
tled in his cabin on the Wise farm he opened the first blacksmith shop
in the township.
About 1825 the Indianapolis & Fort Wayne road was surveyed
through this region, and during the following fall and winter was cut
Scene Near Perkinsville
out by the settlers. It was the first road through this portion of Madi-
son county.
In the spring of 1826 John Ash by brought his family from Ross
county, Ohio, and settled near the present village of Halford, where he
died about two years later. His son, John Ashby, Jr., who was about
eighteen years of age when the familj^ settled in Jackson township,
assisted in supporting the family and in 1842 opened the first tavern
in Hamilton (now Halford). Among others who settled in the vicinity
of Halford about this time were Joel White, Robert Cather, Joseph
Miller, Joel Epperly, and the Robinett, Harless and Benefiel families.
The first white child born in Jackson township was Sarah, daughter
of Lemuel Auter, but the date of her birth is not known. The first
marriage was in 1825, when Isaac Shelton and Delilah Crist were made
man and wife. The first death was that of William Montgomery. The
niSTOKV OK .AIADISUN COUNTY 77
first brick house was erected in 1827 l)y Robert Blair on his farm op-
posite Perkinsville.
One of the great needs of the early settlers was a mill of some de-
scription. It was fourteen miles by the nearest route from the settlement
near Perkinsville to the McCartney mill at Pendleton, which was the
nearest place where corn could be converted into meal. No roads had
as yet been opened and the task of going to mill was one to be dreaded.
In this emergency AVilliani Parkins set his ingenuity and industry to
work and constructed a small mill, to be operated by hand power. The
stones, which he dressed himself, were of native limestone, and the
remainder of the "machinery" consisted principally of round poles.
By the exercise of sufficient "elbow grease" this mill would grind about
a bushel of meal an hour. It did not lack for patronage, as the settlers
within a radius of several miles brought their corn and frequently
furnished the power to grind their own grists. As the population in-
creased in numbers, the old hand mill became inadequate to supply the
demand. Again Jlr. Parkins came to the rescue. With the assistance
of his neighbors he constructed a dam across the White river in front
of where Perkinsville now stands and built a small mill to be run by
water power. The dam was made chiefly of logs and brush, weighted
down with stones. The mill was a little log building containing one run
of buhrs, or stones, which were fashioned by Mr. Parkins and his son
James out of glacial bowlders, or "nigger heads." Such a mill would
be regarded as insignificant in this day, but at that time it was looked
upon as a triumph of mechanical genius. Subsequently a run of buhra
was added for grinding wheat, the flour being bolted upon a machine
operated by hand.
Some years later this mill propert.y w^as purchased by Andrew Jack-
son, of Anderson, who in 1846 erected a large frame building, in which
he installed the best milling machinery that day afforded. A sawmill
was added in 1854. ]\Ir. Jackson subscribed for stock in the old Indian-
apolis & Bellefontaine Railroad Company and through this deal the
mill passed into the hands of the railroad company, which afterward
sold it to James M. and David B. Jackson, sons of the former owner.
After operating it for some years, they sold it to Jacob Zeller, who in
turn sold it to Alfred Clark. On the night of August 19, 1884, the
building, with all its machinery and a large quantity of grain, was
totall.v destroyed by fire and has never been rebuilt.
Kingman's History of Madison County is authority for the state-
ment that the first school in the township was taught in the year 1825,
in the cabin that had been erected by Mr. Dewey some four years
before, and that the teacher was a man named Williams. Among the
scholars were three or four of the Wise boys, about the same number
of the ]\IeClintock boys and Joseph Lee. The second school house was
built a year or two later on section 34, on the Wise farm, a third was
built a little later on the north side of the White river. Both were small
log buildings of the usual frontier type, and the schools taught in them
were subscription or "pay" schools. After the introduction of the
public school system, better school houses were erected. In 1912 Jack-
78 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
son had six brick buildings, valued at $10,000. During the school year
of 1912-13 nine teachers were employed and received in salaries the
sum of $3,636.75.
About 1824 a Methodist class was organized, with Benoni Freel as
the first class leader, and the first regular services were held in the
Dewey cabin. Sometime in the '40s a United Brethren church was
organized at the house of Samuel Gentry, a short distance from Perkins-
ville. A Christian church was organized at Hamilton about 1857 by
Rev. Carey Harrison, but no house of worship was ever erected by the
congregation, and in April, 1866, a Methodist Protestant church was
organized at Hamilton with eight members.
Perkinsville, on the north side of the White river near the western
boundary, and Halford, on the south side of the river, about four miles
east of Perkinsville, are the only villages in the township. In what is
known as the McCliutock neighborhood, near the site of an old Indian
village and burying groimd, was once a little hamlet called Nancytown,
but it is now extinct and the ground where it stood is used for farm-
ing purposes.
Lafayette Township
This township is centrally located and is the only civil township in
the county whose boundaries coincide with the Congressional township
lines, it being six miles square and embracing township No. 20 north of
range 7 east. On the north it is bounded by the towmships of Monroe
and Pipe Creek ; on the east by Richland ; on the south by Anderson and
Jackson, and on the west by Jackson and Pipe Creek. The surface
being generally level, the lands were originally too wet to carry on
farming successfully, but in 1875 an extensive sj'stem of artificial drain-
age was inaugurated that has made this township one of the most desir-
able in the county for agricultural purposes.
In 1831 Henry Ry brought his family from North Carolina and
settled on section 36, in the extreme southeast corner of the township,
where North Anderson now stands. There he built a cabin of round
logs, the first civilized habitation in the township. During his ten years'
residence here he made many substantial improvements, but about 1841
he sold his farm and removed to Randolph county, Indiana, where he
passed the remainder of his life.
In the spring of 1832 John Croan, who had previously settled in
Anderson township, in 1828, removed with his family to section 35, in
what is now Lafayette township and established a new home, about
half a mile north of Henry Ry's cabin. Later in the same year Reuben
Junks, George Mustard and John B. Penniston came from Ross county,
Ohio, and founded homes in this township. James Baily also came
from Ohio in this year, but soon became dissatisfied and returned to the
Buckeye State. Reed Wilson, of Wayne county, Indiana, came in the
spring of 1834 and settled on what was later known as the Pierce farm,
and about the same time Jordan Newton came from Ohio and settled
on the Stanley farm. The next year (1835) there was a considerable
tide of immigration to the township, Isaac Jones, William Lower, James
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 79
Finney, Samuel Fetty, John JIaggart, David Gooding and Mrs. Mar-
garet Shinkle all entering lands and becoming permanent residents.
Gooding was a Kentiickian, who had served as an aide-de-camp under
Colonel Richard M. Johnson in the War of 1812, and was present at
the battle of the Thames, where Colonel Johnson was wounded by the
famous Shawnee chief, Tecumseh.
In July, 1836, James Hollingsworth settled upon the farm where
he lived for many years, and soon after his arrival he built a carding
machine, which he conducted successfully until it was destroyed by a
flood in 1838. He had not been in the township verj' long before he
started the movement for its organization. He circulated the petition,
which was signed by himself, John B. Penniston, John Croan, Isaac
Jones, Reuben Junks, Reed Wilson, Henrj- Ry, Jordan Newton, George
Mustard, George Moore, William Lower, Enos Mustard, John Maggart,
George Rains, Samuel Fetty, David Gooding and James Finney — the
entire voting population living within the territory it was proposed
to incorporate in the new township. The petition was duly presented
to the county commissioners, who on November 9, 1836, issued the order
for the erection of the to^^^lship, as shown by the following entry taken
from the records of that date :
"Ordered by the board that a new township be stricken off from
the townships of Richland, Jackson and Pipe Creek, said new town-
ship shall include all of Congressional township 20, north of range
7 east, and no more, and that all elections shall be held at the house
of John Maggart therein, and the said new township shall be known and
designated by the name and style of Lafayette township."
The name was suggested by James Hollingsworth, in honor of the
Marquis de La Fayette, the gallant French general who rendered such
timely and efficient aid to the struggling armies of the American colonies
in the war for independence. Mr. Hollingsworth was also inspector
of the first election, which was held at the house of John Maggart, as
directed by the commissioners, on January 17, 1837. On that occasion
no ballot-box had been provided and the inspector used his hat as a
receptacle for the tickets. At that election John Maggart received a
majority of the votes for Justice of the peace and Enos Mustard was
chosen township clerk.
Almost immediately following the organization of the township
there was a decided increase in the population. By 1840 the following
persons had founded homes and were developing farms : Daniel Sigler,
Allen Simmons, Lewis and George Baily, Thomas G. Clark, Matthew
Taylor, Samuel Moore, Henry Purgett, John Ridgeway, Washington
Trotter, Zail and George Rains, Caleb Dehority, James Closser, Francis
Colburn, Nathaniel G. Lewis, John Clock, James Wier, Joseph Van
Meter, Samuel Westerfield, George Hilligoss, Sr., Robert and Samuel
Gooding, John Burk and James Stover.
Annis Croan, daughter of John and Sarah Croan, who was born in
1834, was the first white child born in Lafayette township. The first
marriage was celebrated on March 19, 1838, the contracting parties
being James Hollingsworth and Miss Elizabeth Shinkle, and the first
death was that of Reuben Junks.
80 HISTORY OF MADISON COL'XTY
George Mustard planted the first orchard in the township soon after
settling there, procuring his trees from Dempsy Wilson, of Anderson
township. The first mill was huilt by George Millspaugh and James
Stevenson in 1851. It was a small steam sawmill and was first located
on the farm of Patrick Ryan, but subsequently was removed else-
where. In 1870 Roadcap & Van Winkle built a steam sawmill where
the village of P'lorida is now situated. Two months after it went into
operation the boiler exploded, completely wrecking the mill, killing
Perry Moore and a man named Wolf and severely injuring the engineer,
Solomon Muck.
A small log school house was erected in 1840, near the site afterward
occupied by public school No. 7, and the first school in the township was
taught there in the fall of that year by John Penniston. The first frame
school house was built in the same locality in 1857 and was the first to
be erected as a public school. In 1912 there were eleven districts, each
provided with a modern brick building, the estimated value of the eleven
houses being $22,000. Sixteen teachers were employed during the school
years of 1912-13, receiving $7,666 in salaries.
A Methodist society was organized at the house of William Lower in
the fall of 1836, by Rev. Robert Burns. A Christian church was formed
in May, 1869, and the New Lights and United Brethren also established
churches in the township. Accounts of these organizations will be found
in the chapter on Church Historj'.
Florida, on the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati. Chicago & St. Louis (Pan
Handle) Railroad, and Linwood, on the ilichigan division of the Big
Four, are the only villages of consequence. The town of Frankton is
situated near the boundary line between Lafayette and Pipe Creek town-
ships. Soon after the Pan Handle railroad was built in 1856, a ware-
house was established on the road a mile and a half northwest of Florida
and a general store was also opened there. For a time the trains stopped
at Keller's Station, as the place was called, John Keller being the owner
of the land upon which the station was situated. Owing to an insulifi-
cient patronage the store-keeper disposed of his stock of goods and the
warehouse was likewise an unprofitable venture. Trains ceased to stop
there and Keller's Station is now only a memory.
Monroe Township
This township is the largest in Madison county. It is six miles in
width from north to south ; the northern boundary is nine miles and the
southern eight miles in length, and the area of the township is fifty-
one square miles, or 32,640 acres. Pipe Creek flows a southwesterly
course across the township, entering near the northeast corner and
crossing the western boundary a little south of the center. The south-
eastern portion is drained by Little Pipe and Killbuck creeks and the
northwestern part by Mud and Lilly creeks. Along Pipe creek the sur-
face is somewhat undulating, but the greater part of the township is
generally level. The soil is fertile and some of the finest farms in the
county are in Monroe township.
The first white settlers to locate in what is now Monroe township
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 81
were George Marsh and Micajah Chamness, who in the spring of 1831
came from North Carolina and made the first land entries in that part
of the county. Chaniness entered the west half of the northwest quar-
ter of section 19 and the east half of the northeast quarter of section
24, all of which now lies within the corporate limits of the city of Alex-
andria. His cabin, erected on this tract, was the first habitation estab-
lished by a white man within the present limits of the township.
Sometime during the following year, James M. James entered a part
of section 25, about a mile down the creek from the Chamness cabin.
Morgan James settled on Little Pipe creek, a short distance south of
Alexandria, and Annon James entered land near the mouth of Mud
creek.
In 1833 William Chamness and James Tomlinson, the former from
North Carolina and the latter from Clermont county, Ohio, both set-
tled in the neighborhood and during the next two years a number of
immgrants founded homes in the township. Among them were Jesse
Vermillion, from Lawrence county, Ohio, Thornberry Moffit, from Rush
county, Indiana, David L. Pickard, from Maine, Stephen and John
Marsh, Peter Edwards and Stephen Fenimore. The descendants of
some of these pioneers still reside in Madison county.
One agency that materially aided the settlement of this portion of
the county was the opening of two public highways in 1830. One of
these was the Indianapolis & Fort Wayne road and the other was the
road from Fort Wayne to Shelbyville. These two roads, which form a
junction near the northern line of the present township of Monroe,
were the first opened through that section of the county. Over them
were carried the early mails and they served as a stimulus to the white
man to move in and occupy a district in which the Indian had, up to
that time, been the only inhabitant. Compared with some of the im-
proved highways of the present day, they were poor affairs. At the
present time the township is well supplied with good country roads,
while the Big Four and Lake Erie & Western railroads and the lines of
the Indiana Union Traction Company furnish unsurpassed transporta-
tion facilities to all parts of the township.
By the close of the year 1835 the population was considered suffi-
ciently large to justify the organization of a new township. A petition
was accordingly prepared and circulated, and it was signed by prac-
tically every voter residing within the territory it was proposed to
include. At the January term of the commissioners' court in 1836 the
following action was taken by the board :
"On petition filed, it is ordered that the following described terri-
tory be stricken from Richland township, to wit: Commencing on the
country line, where the to^vnship line dividing townships 20 and 21
north crosses the same; running thence north with the county line to
the northeast corner of Madison county; thence west with the north line
of said county to the northeast corner of Pipe Creek township ; thence
south with tlie east line of Pipe Creek township to the line dividing
townships 20 and 21 north ; thence east on said line to the place of
beginning, and that said territory so stricken off be organized into a
separate township to be known and designated by the name of Monroe
82 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
township. All elections are ordered to be held at the residence of
Micajah Chamness until otherwise ordered."
As established by this order, Monroe township included all of the
present township of Van Buren and the eastern half of Boone township.
The township was named in honor of James Monroe, the sixth presi-
dent of the United States. The first election was held at the designated
plae'fe*jn April, 1836, and David L. Pickard was elected justice of the
peace. Mr. Pickard seems to have been one of the most prominent
pioneers. Besides being the first justice of the peace in Monroe town-
ship, he was the first postmaster at Alexandria when the office was
established, and was the first hotel keeper in that town. His hotel
was built in 1838, though previous to that time he had been accustomed
to entertaining travelers at his residence.
About the time the township was organized, or soon afterward, the
population was augmented by the arrival of John Banks, Evan Ellis,
John Brunt, Elijah Williamson, John Cree, Joseph Hall, Jacob Price,
John Chitwood, Lorenzo Carver, Hildria Lee, Baxter Davis and some
others.
The first school was taught by John Brunt in 1837. Twelve pupils
were enrolled in this school, but the exact location where it was taught
is uncertain. David L. Pickard built the first regular school house in
1839. Richard Edwards was one of the pioneer teachers. In 1912 there
were sixteen school districts in the township, outside of the city of
Alexandria. Ten of these districts were provided with brick buildings
and six houses were frame, the value of all being estimated at $33,400.
During the school year of 1912-13 there were twenty-six teachers em-
ployed in the township schools and the payroll for the year amounted
to $7,852.
The first brick house in the township was built by Peter Edwards,
who came in 1835 and settled on the land afterward known as the
Abram Miller farm, where he erected a brick residence soon afterward.
The first deaths were two'members of the Hyatt family and the third was
that of Micajah Chamness.
There is a rumor, but it is not well founded, that a small corn mill
was built on Pipe creek, about a mile northeast of Alexandria, soon
after the first settlers located in that vicinity. The first mill of which
there is any authentic record was a saw and grist-mill built by James
M. James on Pipe creek, about a mile west of Alexandria, in 1834. A
few years later Henry Huff established a saw-mill about two miles
farther up the creek. In the early days Pipe creek abounded in fish and
old settlers have been heard to relate how they would fish at James'
mill of nights, with the wolves howling in the woods around them.
Alexandria, located a little west of the center of the township, at
the junction of the Big Four and Lake Erie & Western railroads, is
the most important town. Orestes, formerly known as Lowry Station,
is situated on the Lake Erie & Western, two and a half miles west of
Alexandria. On the same line of railway, near the eastern boundary
of the county, is the station of Oilman, and the old village of Osceola
is situated in the northwest part, on section 4 of range 7. Osceola was
laid out in 1855 and was named for the celebrated Seminole chief. At
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 83
one time it promised to become a place of some importance. E. M.
Trowbridge opened a general store there soon after the town was laid
out and when the postofiSce was established he was appointed the first
postmaster. David Perry established the first blacksmith shop and
Absalom Webb was the first shoemaker. A large steam saw-mill was
built, but after the most valuable timber had been manufactured into
lumber the mill was taken away. The loss of the mill, the building of
railroads through other parts of the county, and the discontinuance of
the postofiSce, all had a tendency to cheek the growth and prosperity
of Osceola, and about all that remains is the public school and a few
residences.
The first religious organization in the township was the Little Kill-
buck Old School Baptist church, which was formed on June 18, 1842,
at the house of Moses Maynard, with ten members. About the same
time a Methodist congregation was organized at Alexandria. The
Lilly Creek Christian church was established also in 1842 ; the Alex-
andria Christian church in 1852 ; the Lilly Creek Baptist church in
1868, and in more recent years the Baptist, Presbyterian and Episcopal
churches of Alexandria have been organized and neat houses of wor-
ship have been erected.
By far the greater part of the history of Monroe township centers
about the city of Alexandria and many of the important events will
be treated in the chapter on cities and towns.
Pipe Creek Township
Next to Monroe, Pipe Creek township is the largest in the county,
having an area of forty-three square miles, or 27,520 acres. It is
bounded on the north by Boone and Duck Creek townships; on the east
by Monroe and Lafayette ; on the south by Lafayette and Jackson, and
on the west by the counties of Tipton and Hamilton. It is the most
irregularly shaped township in the county, having seven outside and
three inside corners. Pipe creek, the stream that gave name to the
township, enters near the northeast corner of section 21 of range 7,
flows a southwesterly direction past the city of Elwood, and crosaea
the southern boundary about two miles east of the Hamilton county
line. Its principal tributary in the township is the Big Branch, which
flows through the central portion, and the northwestern part is watered
by the Big and Little Duck creeks. The surface is quite level and the
soil is exceedingly fertile, though the expenditure of a considerable
sum of money in the construction of ditches was necessary before agri-
culture could be carried on successfully. The township is now thor-
oughly drained and produces excellent crops.
In 1830 Joseph Shell settled on section 11, township 20, range 6,
near the southern border of the township and about two and a half
miles east of the county line. He had come from Ohio in 1826 and had
spent the intervening years in Jackson township. Settlement was slow
for about two years after Mr. Shell's arrival, but in 1832 several per-
sons located near where the town of Frankton now stands. Among
them were Walter and William Etchison, from North Carolina, Reuben
84 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
KeUy, from Virginia, Samuel Howard, from Wayne county, Indiana,
John, Peter and Job Chamness. In 1833 John Beeson, from Wayne
county, Indiana, and Jacob Sigler, from Virginia, entered the land
upon which Erankton is now situated. Elijah Dwiggins also settled
in the township this ypar.
On May 13, 1833, the board of county commissioners passed the
following order for the erection of the township:
"Ordered that there be a new township organized and stricken
off from Jackson township as follows, to wit : Beginning on the county
line at the southwest corner of section 9, in township No. 20, in range
6 east; ninning thence east on the section line to the southeast corner
of section No. 8, township 20, range 7 east ; thence north to the county
line; thence west to the northwest corner of the county, thence south
along the county line to the place of beginning ; to be known and desig-
nated by the name and style of Pipe Creek township. It is also ordered
that the sheriff notify citizens of said township, that they, on the last
Saturday in June next, proceed to elect one justice of the peace in said
township, and that all elections in said township be holden at the house
of Walter Etchison until otherwise ordered by the board."
Pursuant to this order, the first election was held on June 29, 1833
(the last Saturday in the month), at the house of Walter Etchison and
James Beeson was elected the first justice of the peace for the township
of Pipe Creek.
As originally established, Pipe Creek township included all its
present area except three square miles; four square miles in what is
now the northwest corner of Lafayette township ; all of Duck Creek,
ajid ten square miles of the western part of what is now the township
of Boone. Two years later — at the May term in 1835 — a strip two
miles wide and extending the full length of the township, was taken
from Richland and added to the east side of Pipe Creek, giving the
latter township an area of 104 square miles, or almost the northwest-
em one-fourth of the county. At the same time Jesse Harris was
appointed constable ; James French and Jesse Etchison, supervisors ;
William Flint and Jacob Sigler, overseers of the poor; Robin Erwin
and Jeremiah Derry, fence viewers ; and an order was issued for an
election to be held on the first Monday in June, for the purpose of
electing an additional justice of the peace.
From the organization of the township to 1840, a large number of
new settlers came in. Among the best known, or those who afterward
became prominently identified with township affairs, were Noah Way-
mire, John and Daniel Dwiggins, Henry Plummer, James and William
Montgomery, James Barrow, Caleb Canaday, Dr. W. H. Ebert, Ben-
jamin and Hezekiah Denny, Edmund Johnson, James French, Jonathan
Reeder, John Benefiel, James M. Dehority, Hezekiah and Sterling Kid-
well, Arthur Legg, Joseph and Jonathan Miller, James Tharp, Davis
Wilborn, Lindsey Blue, John Hardy, Jacob French, Frank Dennis,
Robin Erwin and Jeremiah Derry. Several of these pioneers held posi-
tions of trust and responsibility and some of their descendants still reside
in the township.
About 1839 or 1840 a small corn mill was put up on the Big Branch,
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 85
near the point where that stream is now crossed by the Pan Handle
Railroad. It was not much of a mill and was called a "wet weather
corn cracker," because it could run successfully only when there was
a good stage of water in the creek. However, it made a good quality
of corn meal and saved the adjacent settlers many a weary journey
through the woods and over almost impassable roads to the mills at
Perkinsville and Anderson, whither they had gone before the mill on
the Big Branch was erected. A saw-mill was established about the same
time on Pipe creek, three miles above Frankton, by Joseph and Daniel
Franklin.
Elijah Dwiggins opened the first store in the township in 1837, a
short distance west of Frankton. His stock of goods consisted mainly
of such staples as sugar, coffee, salt, calico, etc. Money was rare -on
the frontier and coonskins and other peltries were made to perform,
to a large extent, the functions of currency.
The first school was taught by a Mr. Perry in 1836, in a house
erected for the purpose on Jacob Sigler's farm, near the present town
of Frankton. Other pioneer teachers were Hezekiah Denny, Tilghman
Armfield, John Ring and Joseph Sigler. The last named taught for a
number of years. In 1854 he was elected county auditor and held the
ofiSce for eight years. In 1912 the fifteen brick school houses in the
township were valued at $40,000 and the number of teachers employed
was thirteen, two houses having no school on account of a consolida-
tion of districts. The amount paid in teachers' salaries was $5,474.
This does not include the schools in the corporations of Elwood and
Frankton.
Sometime in the sunnner of 1836 a Methodist church was organized
at the house of Reuben Kelly. This was probably the first religious
society in the township. The Frankton Christian church was formed
in 1839, a IMethodist Protestant congregation was organized at Elwood
about the close of the Civil war in 1865, and after the discovery of
natural gas several new church organizations sprang into existence.
New Madison was the first village in Pipe Creek township. It was
laid out by John Chamness on December 3, 1849, and was situated on
Pipe creek, about two miles above Frankton. It was also called Cham-
nesstown. About two years later James Hilldrup and a man named
Sanders laid out a town called Monticello, about two miles northwest
of Frankton. Mr. Hilldrup opened a store there, and at one time the
town boasted, besides the store, a blacksmith shop, a school house and
six or seven residences. Neither of these old towns is any longer on the
map.
Elwood, the second largest city in Madison county, is situated in
the northwest corner of this township, at the junction of the Pan Han-
dle and the Lake Erie & Western railroads. Frankton, on the Pan
Handle railroad, five miles southeast of Elwood, is an incorporated
town of importance. In the chapter relating to Cities and Towns may
be found the history of Elwood and Frankton, together with numerous
events pertaining to those sections of the township.
Four and a half miles east of Elwood on the Lake Erie & Western
Railroad, is the village of Dundee. The first settler here was Riley
86 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Etchison, who opened a store "in the woods" in the early '50s and
like Elijah Dwiggins traded staples for coonskins, ginseng, etc. His
store was not on any road, but the settlers found their way through the
woods aod the proprietor did a thriving business. When the railroad
was built past his place in the '70s, the town of Dundee, like Topsy
in Uncle Tom's Cabin, "just growed." At first the place was called
"Mudsock," on account of the character of the soil, but on December
6, 1883, Mr. Etchison filed a plat of the village with the county recorder
under the name of Dundee, which name had been given to the post-
ofiBce established there on December 26, 1876, with A. S. Wood as the
first postmaster.
Richland Township
On March 4, 1834, the county commissioners issued the following
order, as shown by the records of that date: "It is ordered by this
board that there be a new township organized in the county of Madi-
son, to be known by the name of Richland, to be bounded as follows,
to wit: Beginning at the southeast comer of section 33, township 20,
range 7 east; rimning thence east with the line dividing townships 19
and 20 north to the east line of said county; thence north with the
county line to the northeast corner' of township 21 and said line ; thence
west to the northeast comer of section 4, township 21 north, range 7
east; thence south to the place of beginning."
As thus established, Richland included all the present township
bearing that name, all of Monroe except three square miles in the north-
western part, the eastern half of Lafayette and a strip half a mile wide
across the north end of Union. With the organization of Monroe and
Lafayette townships in 1836 and a change in the north line of Union,
Richland was reduced to its present area of twenty-eight and one half
square miles. It is bounded on the north by Monroe township ; on the
east by Delaware county ; on the south by the townships of Union and
Anderson, and on the west by Lafayette. The name Richland was
conferred on it because of the fertility of the soil. Killbuck creek enters
the township near the northeast comer and flows a southwesterly direc-
tion, crossing the southern boundary near the southwest corner. Just
before leaving the township it received the waters of the Little Kill-
buck creek, which flows southward through the western part.
When erected in March, 1834, the township was divided into three
road districts and it was ordered that all elections be held at the house
of Peter Ehrhart until otherwise directed by the board. At the first
election Matthew Fenimore was chosen as the first justice of the peace,
but soon afterward removed from the township and an election was
ordered for the first Saturday in February, 1835, to select his suc-
cessor.
About four years before the township was organized, or in 1830,
William Curtis entered the east half of the southwest quarter of sec-
tion 31, in the southwest corner, near the Killbuck creek and just west
of the road now leading from Anderson to Alexandria. There he built
the first log cabin ever erected for a white man's habitation in the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 87
towuship. In the fall of that year David Penisten located on section
30, directly north of Mr. Curtis. About that time the Shelbyville &
Fort Wayne state road was laid out and passed through what is now
Richland township. This had a tendency to encourage the settlement
of territory, in which, up to that time, the Indian had held undisputed
sway, and before the close of the year 1831 a number of pioneers had
settled within convenient distance of the new road. Among them were
John Shinkle, Joseph Brown, Is&ac Jones, Adam Pence, Joseph Ben-
nett, John Beal, William McClosky, Peter Keicher, J. R. Holston,
Thomas Thornburg, Samuel Stephens, John Coburn, Jacob and Michael
Bronnenberg, Jonathan Dillon, Christian Lower, John Hunt, Jesse
Forkner, Randolph Chambers, Jacob Stover and Weems Heagy. John
Parker's daughter, born in 1832, was the first white child born in the
township.
In 1833 Matthew Fenimore built a saw-mill on the Killbuck creek,
near the southwest corner of the township, and a little later William
Curtis and James Barnes built a grist-mill near by, getting their water
power from the same dam as Mr. Fenimore. After the saw-mill was
abandoned Robert Adams, an Englishman, bought out Curtis & Barnes
and in 1850 converted the grist-mill into a woolen factory. It was
destroyed by fire in 1876.
About three miles farther up the creek, Benjamin Walker built a
saw-mill soon after the settlement of that section began, and in 1840
added a carding machine. Near this mill John 3- Purcell established
a woolen factory, which he operated for a few years, when he sold out
to Stephen Broadbent. After his death some years ago the factory was
abandoned and the machinery sold piecemeal by the administrator of
his estate. The old, dismantled building is still standing, but is rapidly
falling to pieces. With the erection of steam mills, equipped with im-
proved machinery, in various parts of the county, most of the old water
power mills went out of business.
Three churches have been organized in Richland township — two of
the Methodist and one of the Christian denomination. The Methodist
church known as the Wesley Chapel is situated in the northwestern
part, and the Asbury Methodist church is situated on the Killbuck
creek in the southern part. A mile and a half east of this church is the
Chambers Christian church, so called from some of the leading mem-
bers of the congregation at the time it was organized in 1854. Near
the Wesley CHapel, on the farm once owned by J. R. Holston, were the
grounds of the Wesleyan Camp Meeting Association, where for many
years camp meetings were held anmially and were attended by people
from all parts of the country.
The first school house was built in the fall of 1831, on what is known
as the Harrison Canaday farm, near the southwest corner of the town-
ship, and the first school was taught there by an Irishman, whose name
appears to have been forgotten. John Treadway was one of the early
teachers in this house. In 1912 the seven brick school houses of the
township were valued at $20,000, and the seven teachers employed
received in salaries the sum of $2,858.
Several villages have been projected at divers times in Richland.
88 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
township, but none has ever grown to any considerable proportions and
most of them have entirely disappeared. The oldest of these villages
was Moonville, which was laid out by Zimri Moon in 1835. It was located
on section 15, about a mile and a half west of the county line and on
the road later known as the Killbuck pike. During the period from
1838 to 1840, while the old Indiana Central canal was under construc-
tion, Moonville did a thriving business. Among those engaged in various
lines of activity there were Nathan Williams, James Trimble, Abraham
Adamaon, John Winslow, Samuel and Joseph Pence, James Swaar,
Riley Moore, John C. Gustin and Dr. John W. Westerfield. The last
named was the only resident physician. With the suspension of work on
the canal Moonville began to decline and, as one old settler expresses it,
finally died of "dry rot." The site it once occupied is now a farm.
About 1838 the village of Pittsborough was laid out by John Beal
and others on the road leading from Anderson to Alexandria, near
the western boundary, and about three miles south of the northwest
comer of the township. Several lots were sold soon after the town was
laid out. Among the purchasers were Nineveh Berry, William Coburn,
James Carroll, Lewis Maynard, Isaac Snelson and Mrs. Martha Shinn.
The records of the county commissioners' court for the March term
in 1839 show that
"On petition presented and duly supported bj' a competent number
of freeholders, it is ordered that Jeremiah Judd be allowed a license to
vend groceries and liquors by the small in the town of Pittsborough,
in said county, for the term of one year from date."
Local option had not been adopted anywhere, and almost every
neighborhood had a place where liquors were sold, while small dis-
tilleries were common. Although "Jerry" Judd's license entitled
him to sell groceries, it is quite probable that most of his profits were
derived from selling "liquors by the small." Pittsborough was a canal
town and old settlers used to tell of the fights that occurred there among
the men employed on the canal, especially upon or immediately after
pay day, when they could get the inspiration for a fight at Judd's
"tavern." Besides Judd's establishment, there were several stores
and residences, most of them log structures common to that period.
When the canal was abandoned most of the inhabitants "moved on"
and Pittsborough ceased to exist.
Another canal town was Mount Pleasant, which was laid out in 1839
on section 32, near the southern border of the township, on land belong-
ing to Joshua Shinkle. John Thornburg bought a lot and built a dwell-
ing house, the only one ever erected in the town. Work on the canal
was suspended about the time the village was laid out and Mount
Pleasant was short-lived. No trace of it remains to tell the story of its
existence or the ambitions of its founders.
Prosperity, situated in the southwest corner of section 18, on the
Anderson & Alexandria pike, was founded by John Beal and Hiram
Louder, who opened the first store there about the time the canal was
being built. A postoffice was established soon after and for a time
the village flourished, a fact which is probably responsible for the
name. When the turnpike was built in 1858, a toll gate was placed
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 89
at Prosperity. The death of the canal was a severe blow to the village,
the discontinuance of the postoffice added to the decline, and with the
inau^ration of the free gravel road system even the toll gate was
abolished. Three or four houses remain to tell of the good times of
the bygone days, when Prosperity was a bustling little place.
Stony Creek Township
The first mention of this township to be found in .the public records,
is in the minutes of the commissioners' court for March, 1851, when
Thomas McAllister was appointed assistant appraiser of real estate,
"under a law of the legislature at the last session," to appraise the lands
in district No. 1, consisting of the townships of Adams, Fall Creek,
Green and Stony Creek.
It is one of the western tier and is bounded on the north by Jackson
township ; on the east by Anderson and Fall Creek ; on the south by
Fall Creek and Green, and on the west by the county of Hamilton. Its
area is twenty-eight square miles and it takes its name from Stony
creek, which flows a southwesterly course across the northwest corner.
The southern part is watered by Sand creek and its small tributaries.
This creek forms an outlet for a number of neighborhood ditches in that
portion of the county. Originally the township was covered with
a heavy forest growth, but the ax and the saw-mill have done their
deadly work and but little valuable timber is left.
A portion of this township was once known as the "Dismal." It was
a tract of land, several miles in extent, heavily timbered, with a dense
growth of underbrush that gave it a dismal and forbidding appearance.
Wild animals found a certain security in this wilderness and for many
years the "Dismal" was a favorite hunting gi'ound, not only for the
pioneers, but there is also a tradition that the Indian tribes as far
north as the Wabash river came here on hunting expeditions before
the advent of 4:he white man. Human skeletons and Indian relics found
in this part of the county bear out the tradition. But the "Dismal"
is no longer a place with which to frighten timid children. The dense
forest has been cut away, the land drained, and where once the savage
Indian pursued the wild beast are some of the most productive farms
in the county.
The first white settlement in the township was made near the present
village of Fishersburg, in 1823, when Thomas Busby, George Reddick,
John Anderson, Benjamin Fisher, the Studleys and a few others settled
along Stony creek in that locality. Benjamin Fisher was killed by the
Indians while felling a tree near where the village of Strawtown,
Hamilton county, now stands, and his widow afterward became the wife
of Benoni Freel, who is credited with having built the first log cabin
in what is now Jackson township.
Among those who settled in the township during the decade begin-
ning with 1823, were Henry Shetterly and John Fisher, both from
Ohio. The former came in 1828 and the latter in 1831. Other early
settlers were James and Jesse Gwinn, W. A. Aldred, Peter Ellis, New-
ton Webb, Isaac Milburn, Noah Huntzinger and Arbuckle Nelson.
90 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The Gwinns came about 1835 and settled on section 23, about two
miles northeast of Fishersburg, where members of the family still live.
They were from Virginia, where one of their ancestors settled in colonial
times and took up a large tract of land. By some means this land
passed out of the control of the Gwiun family and later was leased to
a coal company. When rich deposits of coal were found, suit was filed
to recover the land and after five years of litigation the ease was decided
in the summer of 1913 in favor of the Gwinn heirs, giving them pos-
session of 440 acres of coal lands, valued at $50,000. The Gwinns of
Stony Creek township shared in this good fortune.
The first death in the township was that of George Shetterly, about
1830, and the first marriage was between Samuel Shetterly and Jane
Freel on July 8, 1834. She was a daughter of Benoni Freel, the pioneer,
and the ceremony was performed by Ancil Beach, a deacon in the
Methodist church.
The first road opened through the township was the one from Pen-
dleton to Strawtown, which was laid out in 1832. In 1865 that portion
between Pendleton and Fishersburg became a toll road known as the
Harvesting Scene Ne.vr L.vpel
Pendleton & Fishersburg turnpike and remained thus until purchased
by the county and made a free gravel road in 1888. There are now
nearly fifty miles of public highway in the township, and one line of
railroad (the Central Indiana), which crosses the eastern boundary
about a mile south of the northeast corner and runs a southwesterly
direction past Lapel, leaving the to\\'oship about half a mile south of
Fishersburg.
About 1835 a log school house, the first in the township, was built
near Stony creek, a short distance southeast of Fishersburg. Three
years later it passed into the hands of a man named Rogers, who con-
verted it into a blacksmith shop, which it is claimed was the first in the
township. "With the introduction of the free school system, better
buildings were erected for educational purposes, and in 1912 there were
nine school houses, all of' brick, valued at $12,000. The nine teachers
employed in the public schools during the year 1912-13 received $4,324
in salaries.
Of the churches in Stony Creek township, the Methodists organized
a society at Fishersburg about 1838, the Baptists formed a congrega-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 91
tion there in 1843, the Forest Chapel Christian church, in the south-
eastern part, was founded in 1860, and the Methodists, Friends and
United Brethren have churches in Lapel.
Fishersburg, near the western boundary, and Lapel, about a mile
southeast of Fishersburg, are the only towns of importance. The lat-
ter is incorporated. Shortly after the completion of the Central Indiana
railroad through the township a postoftice called Bruin was established
at Graber's Station on March 6, 1878, with Marion Graber as post-
master. A few days later another postofBce was established at John-
son's Crossing, about one mile east of Graber's Station, with John J.
Johnson as postmaster. Both these ofiBces have since been discon-
tinued and the people who once received mail there are now supplied
by rural carrier.
Union Township
Union is the smallest civil township in Madison county, though when
created in 1830 it embraced a much larger territory than at present.
The order for its erection was issued by the board of county commis-
sioners on May 3, 1830, and in the records for that date it appears as
follows :
"Ordered by the board that there a new township be laid off from
Anderson township, beginning at the corner of section 23, township 19,
range 8; thence north to the north corner of the county; thence west
three miles to the northwest corner of section 4, township 22; thence
south to the southwest corner of section 12, township 19, range 8 ; thence
east to the place of beginning, to be known and designated by the name
of Union."
The commissioners' clerk evidently made two mistakes in entering this
order in the records. First, the northwest comer of section 4, township
22, is in Grant coimty, one mile north of the Madison county line. It
is probable that the northwest corner of section 9 or the southwest cor-
ner of section 4 was intended, as those two corners join on the county
line just three miles west of the northeast corner of the county. Sec-
ond, to run a line from that point south to the southwest comer of
section 12, township 19, range 8, would be a geographical impossibility,
for the reason that section 12 lies in Delaware county, the southwest
comer of it being one mile east of Chesterfield and two miles due north
of the starting point. Transposing the figures gives section 21, which
was doubtless the one meant, the southwest corner of that section being
exactly three miles west of the ' ' place of beginning. ' '
As at first organized, with the boundaries as above indicated. Union
township was twenty-one miles long from north to south and three
miles wide from east to west. The organization of Richland, Monroe
and Van Buren absorbed all the northern part — in fact all of the town-
ship except nine square miles of the southern end. Subsequently six
square miles were added on the south, carrying the southern boundary
down to the line separating townships 18 and 19, and the northern
boundary was fixed at the middle of sections 33, 34 and 35 of township
20. giving Union its present area of nineteen and one-half square miles.
92 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
It is bounded on the north by Richland township; on the east by Del-
aware county; on the south by Adams township, and on the west by
the townships of Anderson and Richland.
In the original order for the organization of the township it was
specified that the first election should be held on the second Saturday
in June, 1830, at the house of Thomas Vananda, in the town of West
Union (now Chesterfield), for one justice of the peace. At the August
term the commissioners appointed "William Bodle constable for the new
township.
It is claimed by some that the township was named on account of
its being situated opposite the point where the counties of Henry,
Delaware and Madison form a "union," but in view of the great extent
of territory included at the beginning, it is more than likely that the
name was adopted out of regard for the Federal Union of states.
The White river enters the township from Delaware county about
a mile and a half south of the northeast corner and flows westward for
1
An Early Dwelling in Union Township
two miles, when it turns southward and crosses the western boundary
a little south of the center. Its principal tributaries in Union are the
Turkey creek from the north and Mill creek from the south, both of
which empty into the river near Chesterfield. Sly Fork, an affluent
of Fall creek, flows southward in the southeastern portion. The sur-
face is generally level, except along the White river, where there are
some bluff's and hills. On the south side of this stream in Union town-
ship, half a mile east of the western border, are the celebrated mounds
described in Chapter II.
When the first white men came to this part of the county they found
the ground covered with a dense forest, consisting of black walnut, oak,
hickory, ash, poplar, beech, and other varieties of trees, but most of the
valuable timber has disappeared. The soil is fertile, much of it being
a black, sandy loam with clay subsoil and well adapted to agricultural
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 93
purposes. The county infirmary is in this township, about half a mile
west of Chesterfield.
William Uilts, who came from Montgomery county, Ohio, in March,
1821, and settled on the east side of Mill creek, is credited with being
the first white man to erect a cabin in what is now Union township.
Here he dwelt for about three years, when, being without sufHcient
means to enter the land, the place he had selected for a home was en-
tered from under him by Joshua Baxter. Mr. Dilts then went to Del-
aware county, but in 1829 he returned and entered 160 acres just east
of where he had first located. Upon this tract he built a double log
house, which he opened as a hotel, the first in that part of the county.
In 1835 he erected a brick house, the first of its kind in the township,
near the log house. This building was also conducted as a hotel for
many years.
About three months after Mr. Dilts settled on Mill creek in 1821,
Frederick Bronnenberg came into the towniship. He was from Rich-
land county, Ohio, on his way to Sangamon county, Illinois, with an
ox team, when one of his oxen gave out near Mr. Dilts' place, upon
whom he called for assistance. Upon being informed that there were
no roads to speak of farther west, Mr. Bronnenberg decided to locate
in the neighborhood. He first moved his family into an abandoned
cabin that had been erected by an Indian trader named McChester, but
the following spring built a cabin of his own on section 16. This sec-
tion was school land, which was afterward purchased by Mr. Bron-
nenberg, and which is still owned by his descendants.
Prior to the organization of the township in 1830, the following
persons settled within its present limits: Isaac K. Errick, from New
York; John Suman, from Maryland, an unmarried man who made his
home with ]\Ir. Dilts; Daniel Nolandand his four sons-in-law — William
Woods, John Martin, Jason Hudson and Joseph Carpenter — from North
Carolina ; Amasa Makepeace, from Massachusetts ; David Croan and a
Mrs. Shinier, from Ohio ; Bazil Neely, from Virginia ; John Pugh, and
some others.
Michael, son of Frederick Bronnenberg, born on November 21, 1821,
was the first white child born in the township, and the second white
male child in the county. The first wedding was on December 29, 1825,
when Nancy Shimer became the wife of Allen Makepeace, and the sec-
ond was that of John Pugh and Celia Bracken in September, 1829.
For the first four years after the settlement of the township was begun,
the settlers had to take their corn to the mill at the falls of Fall creek
to have it ground into meal. In 1825 Amasa Makepeace offered to build
a mill on Mill creek, a short distance above the mouth, if the neighbors
would construct a race for the water necessary to run it. They cheer-
fully agreed and before the close of that year the Makepeace mill was
a landmark in that section of the county. Soon after the mill was
completed, Allen Makepeace, a son of Amasa. opened the first store in
a log cabin near by, hauling his goods from Cincinnati in wagons. This
was the first mercantile establishment in Union township.
A saw-mill was built on the White river by Frederick Bronnenberg
in 1837. Later buhrs for grinding both wheat and com were added,
94 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
and still later a carding machine. The entire plant was destroyed by
fire in 1847. When the Indianapolis & Bellfoutaine (now the Big
Four) Railroad was completed through the township, Brazleton Noland
built a large flour mill at Chesterfield and not long afterward J. B.
Anderson established a saw-mill there. Both these mills have passed
away.
Samuel Suman started the first distillery in the township, on his
farm on the north side of the White river, at an early date, and Fred-
erick Bronnenberg afterward built a distillery on his farm. Like his
mill, this distillery was destroyed by fire.
The first school house was built in 1829, near where the town of
Chesterfield now stands, and the first school was taught that winter
by Jason Hudson. The six brick school houses in the township in 1912
were valued at $5,000, and the seven teachers employed in the public
schools received $3,680 in salaries.
The United Brethren church organized in Chesterfield in 1840 was
the first religious society. This church was followed by the Baptists
in 1868, and in 1870 a Methodist congregation was organized. In 1890
the Spiritualist camp grounds were established near Chesterfield and
meeting have been held annually since that time, usually in the month
of August.
Union township has about forty miles of public highway and two
lines of railroad. The Big Four runs from southwest to northeast
through the central part and the Pan Handle from northwest to south-
east through the southern part. Chesterfield, on the Big Four, is the
only railroad station in the township. When the Pan Handle was com-
pleted a station called Slyfork was started near the place where the
railroad crosses the stream of that name, and a postoffice called Bran-
son was established by the government. Ballingall & Tucker opened a
store, a sawmill was built, and for a time Slyfork gave evidences of
having "come to stay." But the machinery of the mill was taken to
another location, the postofiice was discontinued, and finally the stock
of goods was removed and the building torn down. Nothing is left to
mark the place where this promising hamlet once stood.
Van Bueen Township
This township occupies the northeast corner of the county and is
five miles square, with an area of twenty-five square miles, or sixteen
thousand acres. It was named in honor of Martin Van Buren, who was
inaugurated president of the United States on March 4, 1837, and two
days later the township was organized, as shown by the following entry
in the records of the commissioners' court for that date:
"On petition filed, and due deliberation thereupon had, it is ordered
by the Board that Congressional township No. 22 north, of range 8
east, in Madison county, be organized into a township to be known and
designated by the name and style of Van Buren township, and it is also
ordered that they hold an election in said township, at the house of
Hiram Palmer therein, on the first Monday of April next, for the pur-
pose of electing one justice of the peace."
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 95
Hiram Palmer was appointed inspector of the election and it waa
further ordered that all elections in the township should be held at his
house until the board might otherwise direct. From the published
accounts of that first election it is clear that Mr. Palmer did not serve
as inspector. He and Samuel P"'enimore were the opposing candidates
for the ofifice of justice of the peace. Early on the morning of -the elec-
tion Mr. Fenimore and three of his friends appeared at the polls and
cast four votes for Fenimore for "squire." No other votes were cast
until just before the time for closing the polls, when Palmer and four
others came up and cast five votes for Palmer, electing him by a major-
ity of one vote. The Fenimore crowd no doubt felt somewhat crest-
fallen, when they realized their defeat, especially as they had made no
effort during the day to bring out other voters and then had to witness
the victory snatched from them when it was too late.
The surface of this township is generally level and was once heavily
timbered. The soil is principally a black loam in the level portions
and clay where the surface is rolling. It is all highly productive and,
now that the level lands are thoroughly drained, some of the largest
crops in the county are produced in Van Buren, especially of wheat
and corn. Pipe creek, which flows across the southeast corner, and
Mud creek, which has its source near Summitville are the only water
courses.
There is some question as to who the first settlers were, or just when
they located in the township. From sources believed to be reliable it is
learned that about 1830 Jacob Davis, John and Hiram Palmer and
Thomas Gordon, came from Virginia and located a little north of where
the town of Summitville now stands. Between that time and the organ-
ization of the township quite a number of immigrants came in and
entered lands. Among them were John and William Kelsey, who set-
tled on section 8, near the Grant county line ; John Cree and Robert
Robb, on section 17, immediately south of the Kelseys; Samuel Feni-
more. on section 20, near those who came in 1830; Thomas Cartwright
and James Blades, on section 31, in the southwest corner; John Moore,
who came from North Carolina and settled near Samuel Fenimore.
Others who came in during this period and settled in various parts
of the township were Ephraim and Madison Broyles (father and son),
John Shields, Zachariah Robinson, David Culberson and John M.
Zedeker. Some of these remained but a short time. Believing that bet-
ter opportunities could be found in Illinois or Iowa which were just
then being settled, they moved on westward to find farms on the prairies,
where the arduous labor of "making a clearing" could be avoided.
After the organization of the township settlement increased steadily.
By 1839 there was considerable travel over the old Indianapolis &
Fort "Wayne state road and in that year Samuel Fenimore built an addi-
tion to his cabin and opened a tavern for the accommodation of travel-
ers who might pass over the "Fort Wayne trace," as the road was called,
and who might need a "square meal" or a night's lodging. This was
the first hotel in the township. The first saw-mill was built by Moore,
Wellington & Harold in 1854, to which a run of buhrs for grinding corn
was afterward added. The first store was opened by Robert Robb in
96 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
1838, and the first postofifice was kept by John Kelsey. The first black-
smith shop was started by Jasper Webb and the first shoemaker was a
man named Snelling. In 1868 the first flour mill was built at Summit-
ville by Columbus Moore.
It is believed that the first school house in Van Buren township was
a small Log cabin, about a mile and half north of Summitville, but the
date when it was built or when the first school was taught there cannot
be definitely ascertained. George Doyle was the first teacher. In 1912
fhere were eight brick school houses, exclusive of the building in the
incorporated town of Summitville, and the value of these eight houses
■was estimated at $10,000. Ten teachers were employed in the township
schools during the school years of 1912-13 and the amount paid to them
in salaries was $4,204.
Probably the first religious society to be organized was a German
Baptist church, which was established at an early date. A Christian
congregation was organized about 1859, the Zion Baptist church in 1874,
the Wesleyan Methodist church at Summitville the same year, and the
Baptists and Presbyterians also have churches in Summitville.
Van Buren township has transportation facilities above the avetage.
Over forty miles of public highway traverse all sections of the township,
and a large proportion of these roads consists of graveled roadways of
the most approved type. The Michigan division of the Big Four Rail-
road runs north and south through the western part, through Summit-
ville, and is paralleled by a line of the Indiana Union Traction Company,
over which electric trains run every hour. Summitville is the only town.
\
CHAPTER VII
THE CITY OP ANDERSON
Location — First Known as Andersontown — First Incorporation —
Change of Name — Second Incorporation — Becomes a City — First
City Officials — Public Utilities — • Water Works — Electric
Lighting Plant — Fire Department — Police Department — Sewer-
age System — Street Railway — The "Mule Motor" — Electric
Lines — Illuminating Gas — Postopfice — Some Historic Hotels —
First Newspaper — A Political Drug Store — Board op Trade —
First City Directory — Sketches op the Mayors — Statistics and
Comment.
Anderson, the county seat of Madison county, is pleasantly situated
on an eminence on the south side of the White river, about five miles
southeast of the geographical center of the county and thirty-nine miles
northeast of Indianapolis, the capital of the state. It is located upon the
site formerly occupied by the Delaware chief, Kikthawenund, or Captain
Anderson, for whom the city was named. The records show that the
original site in section 12, embracing 320 acres, was entered by Wil-
liam Conner previous to the organization of the coujlty. He after-
ward sold it to John Berry, who in 1823 laid out the first plat of the
town and on November 7, 1827, conveyed a considerable portion of it
to the county in consideration of the seat of justice being permanently
located there. The following year the business of the county was re-
moved from Pendleton, which prior to that time had been the seat of
justice by common consent.
During the first ten years of its existence the growth of Anderson-
town, as the place was at first called, was rather slow. In 1837 the
population did not exceed two hundred people. That year witnessed
the introduction of the system of internal improvements throughout
the state and "Andersontown" began to wake up. One of the enter-
prises projected by the board of internal improvements was the Indiana
Central canal (a branch of the Wabash & Erie), which was to leave
the main canal "'at the most suitable point between Fort Wayne and
Logausport, running thence to Muncietown, thence to Indianapolis,"
etc. As this branch of the canal system would pass Anderson it had the
effect of almost doubling the population within two years. It was dur-
ing this period that the subject of incorporating the town first came up
for consideration, and, although there was considerable opposition to
such a proceeding, the legislature that met in December, 1838, passed an
act ""to incorporate the town of Andersontown, in Madison county,
containing 3.50 inhabitants."
Vol. 1 — 7
97
98 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Pursuant to this act, the county commissioners, at their January
session in 1839 ordered "That an election be held at the court-house in
said town, by the citizens of said town, on Monday, the 21st day of
January, instant, for the purpose of electing trustees and appointing
officers to govern the town, and upon the citizens complying with this
order, the said town is hereby and thereafter to be considered an incor-
porated town."
Almost immediately after the town was incorporated came the dis-
couraging news that the work of internal improvements projected by
the state was suspended, and that the canal which had promised mate-
rial growth and prosperity to the budding city was never to become a
reality. A decline in population followed and with it a decline in the
interests of town corporation, which lost its vitality and finally died a
natural death. Anderson was then a village for about fifteen yeai's, or
until the summer of 1853, when it was incorporated for the second time.
In the meantime Robert N. Williams, county auditor, and James
Hazlett, county clerk, on behalf of the citizens, went before the legis-
lature of 1844-45 and presented a request to have the name of the town
changed to Anderson, dropping the last syllable of the old name of
" Andersontown, " on the ground that the name was too cumbersome
and did not sound well. The petition was granted by the general as-
sembly and since that time the official name of the place has been
"Anderson," though many years elapsed before the old settlers could
break themselves of the habit of using the old name.
With the completion of the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine Railroad
through Madison county, and the establishment of a station at Ander-
son in 1852, the town soon began to manifest signs of increased busi-
ness activity and the necessity for a town government became apparent.
Consequently a public meeting was called for the evening of April
25, 1853, at the court-house, for the purpose of considering the ques-
tion of incorporation. At that meeting Samuel Myers presided and
P. H. Lemon acted as secretary. After some discussion. Dr. Townsend
Ryan offered a resolution declaring that it was tlie sense of the meet-
ing that Anderson should be incorporated as a town under the laws of
the state of Indiana. The resolution was adopted almost unanimously
and on motion of Milton S. Robinson, John Davis, Townsend Ryan and
Nineveh Berry were appointed a committee to fix the town boundaries.
Armstrong Taylor was appointed to take a census of the population.
Steps were also taken for the circulation of a petition to be presented
to the board of county commissioners at the next regular session.
The commissioners met on June 6, 1853 (the first Monday), and on
Thursday following John Davis, J. C. Thompson and J. W. Sansberry
appeared before the board and filed an application for the incorporation
of the town, which application was accompanied by a map or plat,
showing the bounds as surveyed by Nineveh Berry. After the applica-
tion and plat had been examined by the commissioners, the following
action was taken :
"And the board being satisfied that the requirements of the statutes,
in such case made and provided, have been fully complied with, it is
therefore ordered that the said territory included and embodied in the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 99
survey, to wit: (Then follows a description of the boundaries), be
incorporated as the Town of Anderson. . . . And the qualified
voters of the said territory to be incorporated are hereby notified to
meet at the courthouse in said town on Saturday the 16th day of July
next to determine whether said territory shall be incorporated," etc.
For some reason not apparent, the election was held on Tuesday,
June 28, 1853, instead of on the date fixed by the commissioners. James
W. Sansberry, Burket Eads and S. B. Mattox were the election in-
spectors. The result was thirty-six votes in favor of incorporation and
one against the proposition. The town government established at this
time lasted for about twelve years, when some of the leading citizens,
believing that Anderson had outgrown a municipal organization of that
nature, took steps to organize a city government. For some time the
subject was canvassed and on August 28, 1865, an election was held to
decide whether the old form of government should continue or Ander-
son should become incorporated as a city. At that election 217 votes
were cast, 207 of which were in favor of a city government and only
ten in the negative. The next step was to comply with the requirements
of the state laws and obtain a charter. When this was done the city
was divided into three wards and the first election for city officers was
held with the following results: Mayor, Robert N. Williams; clerk, C.
D. Thompson ; treasurer, Joseph Fulton ; marshal, M. N. Harriman ;
city prosecutor, E. V. Long; councilmen — First ward, John D. Mershon
and Stephen Noland; second ward, Eli B. Goodykoontz and George
Nichol ; third ward, Winburn R. Pierse and Benjamin Sebrell.
Following is a list of the city officials in 1913: Frank P. Foster,
mayor; Maurice Collins, clerk; John C. Williams, controller; Otis P.
Crim, treasurer; Charles T. Sansberry, city attorney; George A. Lan-
phear, city engineer ; Charles G. Alford, chief of the fire department ;
John B. Pritchard, superintendent of police; Henry C. Brown and
Edward F. Staton, eouncilmen-at-large ; J. H. Mellette, councilman
first ward; Fred T. Barber, councilman second ward; Edgar Tupman,
councilman third ward. The board of public works is composed of H.
C. Brown, F. T. Barber and Edgar Tupman, and the board of health
of Drs. E. W. Chittenden, W. A. Lail and J. A. Long.
In the matter of electric light and water works, Anderson has suc-
cessfully solved the problem of municipal ownership. Prior to 1885
the city was without fire protection and after several disastrous fires
had occurred the citizens decided in favor of the establishment of some
system of water works. An appropriation of $20,000 was made as a
starter, and L. J. Burr, T. M. Norton and H. J. Bronnenberg were ap-
pointed trustees. On account of an injury received in an accident on
August 22, 1888, Mr. Bronnenberg resigned and was succeeded by
Harrison Canaday. A building was erected and two pumps — each hav-
ing a capacity of one million gallons daily — were installed. About
five miles of mains were laid and forty-five hydrants placed in position
by July, 1886, when the pumps were started for the first time. It was
thought when this plant was erected and equipped that it would be suffi-
cient to supply the city's needs for the next twenty-five years. But
the water works had but fairly started when natural gas was discov-
100 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ered at Anderson and the city began to spread over new territory, which
demanded that mains be laid to supply the inhabitants with water.
Meetings of the water works trustees and the city council were
called to consider what was best to be done in the emergency, and in
the spring of 1892 an appropriation of $65,000 for enlarging the plant
was made. It was soon discovei-ed that the entire works would have to
be practically rebuilt. The mains were too small to deliver a larger sup-
ply of water than they were already delivering ; new buildings were
necessary to accommodate the large pumps and boilers necessary to meet
the demand, and the result was a bond issue of about $150,000 to secure
the funds for the purpose of putting in a water works system that
would be large enough to supply the constantly increasing demand for
water. Larger mains were laid from the pumping station and the old
ones used in a secondary capacity. Two duplex compound pumps with
a daily capacity of eight million gallons were purchased and installed in
a new building and the boiler capacity was increased in proportion.
According to the report of Henry Drach, superintendent of the water
works, for the year ending on December 31, 1912, the value of the
buildings and machinery was, in round numbers $112,220, and the
amount of water furnished to consumers during the year was 501,451,-
250 gallons. During the year about three miles of new mains were
laid.
Soon after the present plant went into operation the water works
trustees and the city authorities agreed upon the plan of charging the
city $1,500 a month for water furnished to the fire hydrants, public
buildings, etc., that amount to be paid from the general fund. This
plan was followed until 1912, when the charges were reduced to $1,250
per month, or $15,000 for the year. This is no more than the city
would have had to pay a private corporation for water, and by this
method the water works have been placed upon a paying basis. Bonds
to the amount of $20,000 were redeemed during the year 1912 from the
earnings of the system, leaving l)onds outstanding to the amount of
$37,000, which the board expects to redeem from the. earnings of 1913.
In addition to this all the operating expenses, salaries, etc., were paid
from the earnings and at the close of the year there was a net balance
on hand of over $7,000. Notwithstanding this, the rate to consumers
is much below that usually charged in cities the size of Anderson, the
average rate for a family occupying a house of eight rooms being about
$8.50 annually, large consumers being supplied at a somewhat lower
rate.
In 1903 there were a number of cases of typhoid fever in the city
that were charged to the water furnished by the water works, the
.supply coming from the White river and being delivered to consumers
-without being filtered or purified in any way. To obviate this diffi-
culty, a Continental-Jewell filtering system was put in at a cost of
about $66,000, and since then there have been no more typhoid cases
traceable to the city water. There are now nearly forty-five miles of
mains, 379 fire hydrants and about 3,200 private consumers.
The first electric lighting plant in Anderson was started by Isaac D.
Bosworth, in connection with his planing mill on ^Meridian street, be-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 101
tween Teiitli and Eleventh streets, in 1885. He made a contract with
the city to funiisli current to the arc lights in the streets and alleys,
but made no effort to secure private consumers. In 1892 Charles L.
Henry acquired the street railway interests and changed the old mule
power to electricity. About the same time he purchased Mr. Bosworth's
plant, contracts and good will and continued to supply the city with
street light until 1896. He then built the first interurban line from
Anderson to Alexandria and offered the electric lighting plant to the
city. His offer was accepted and the purchase price of $48,000 was
paid in notes, all of which have since been paid from the earnings, so
that the municipal electric lighting plant has really cost the taxpayers
of the city nothing.
At the time this deal wa.s made and the cit.y took over the plant
JIeridian Street, South from Tenth Street
natural gas was in the zenith of its glory. The price of gas was so low
that many people preferred to use it for lighting purposes on account
of the cost. There were then two hundred arc lights in the streets, and
for keeping these supplied with current and in good repair the city paid
$18,000 annually from the general fund— vabout- what it would have
cost to have taken light from a private corporation. This charge was
reduced to $15,000 for the year 1913. Although the charge to the city
was reduced $3,000 for that year, there were then 325 are lights, or
125 more than when the first charge of $18,000 a year was taken from
the general fund to pay for street lighting. In 1903 notes to the amount
of $60,000 were issued to rebuild the plant and these notes have all
been paid from the earnings, the transmission has been greatly impi'oved
and the cost of service has been reduced. The total receipts of the
lighting department for the year 1912 were, in round numbers, $127,000,
and there was a net balance of over $20,000 on hand at the close of the
102 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
year, thougu nearly $15,000 in bonds were paid from the year's earn-
ings. The department also holds $32,500 of Anderson city bonds as an
investment. Edmund Burke is the superintendent of the plant. Through
the successful management of the municipal lighting and water depart-
ments the city tax rate has been i-edueed from $1.08 in 1905 to 65 cents
in 1913. It is estimated by the city controller that the net earnings of
the lighting plant for the year 1913 will reach $70,000.
The first- effort to organize a fire department for the city was made
in the early '70s, when John P. Barnes and Chai-les T. Doxey, then
members of the city council, urged upon that body the necessity of pro-
viding some protection against loss by fire. Through their influence the
council was induced to authorize the purchase of a Silsby engine at a
cost of $7,000. After the engine arrived it was useless without an ade-
quate water supply and some of the citizens, seeing that a large expend-
iture of money would have to be made in erecting buildings, construct-
ing cisterns, etc., applied to the circuit court for an injunction. A
temporary restraining order was granted by the court and pending
further hearing the engine was locked up in a building on West Eighth
street, where it remained until the case was decided against the council
by the circuit court of Henry county, where it had been taken on a
change of venue. Such was the manner in which the first attempt to
establish a fire department ended in failure.
Some years later, while James Hazlett was mayor, he and H. H.
Conrad, a member of the city council, after much argument, prevailed
upon the council to purchase a small hand engine and a hook and ladder
apparatus at a cost of $600. A shed was erected by order of the council
on east Eighth street, at the first alley east of the public square, where the
engine was kept for several years. There was no organized department,
the citizens turning out on an alarm of fire to man the engine, and at
one time this little machine saved the east side of the public square from
destruction when a fire broke out in the Grunewald building.
In 1886, while the water works were under construction, a petition
was presented to the city council asking for the organization of a
volunteer fire department. On August 13, 1886, a meeting was held
in the mayor's office and fifty-seven men enrolled themselves as members
of the volunteer department. By-laws, rules and regulations were
adopted for the government of the department ; Amos Coburn was elected
chief; C. K. McCuUough, assistant chief; S. A. Towell, secretary; Bart
Proud, captain of Hose Company No. 1 ; Jesse Talmage, captain of Hose
Company No. 2 ; John Ewing, captain of the Hook and Ladder Company.
Headquarters were secured in the basement of the court-house and the
first Friday in each month was selected as the time for holding regular
meetings. Soon after the organization was perfected the city council
furnished the members with rubber coats, boots, fire hats, etc. The
citizens gave the volunteers a banquet, which encouraged them to do their
best, and the movement was pronounced a success. At last Anderson
had a fire department.
At the time this department was organized the fire fighting apparatus
consisted of two hand reels, 1,000 feet of hose, the old hand engine and a
hook and ladder truck. Better hose was soon afterward provided by
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 103
the city council and members of the department were allowed two dollars
each for attendance at a fire. In the spring of 1887 Amos Coburn
resigned as chief and was succeeded by Samuel A. Towell. A year later
two horses were purchased and Edward Wilcox was employed as a regular
driver — the first paid man in the department. Three additional men
were placed on the pay roll at forty dollars a month in 1889; the chief's
salary was fixed at $100 per annum ; the two old hand reels were replaced
by a one-horse reel, and further improvements were added. The Gane-
well alarm system was installed in 1890, a hose wagon was purchased
and the building at the corner of Central avenue and Eighth street was
erected for the use of the department. As soon as the building was com-
pleted two new members were added to the department and the salary
of firemen was fixed at forty-five dollars a month. The chief's salary
was also increased. Three years later the department was converted
into a full paid force of thirteen men. This was done on motion of John
L. Forkner, who at that time represented the Second ward in the city
council. The same year a building was erected at the comer of
Seventeenth street and Madison avenue and Hose Company No. 2 was
there stationed.
In 1913 the department consisted of Charles G. Alford, chief; Philip
HoUingsworth, assistant chief; four captains; two lieutenants; three
laddermen, and twelve pipemen. The city now owns four buildings, viz. :
The Central Station at the corner of Eighth street and Central avenue,
where a chemical engine and the hook and ladder truck are stationed, and
where the chief maintains his headquarters; Hose Company No. 2, at
the corner of Madison avenue and Seventeenth street; Hose Company
No. 3, at the corner of Columbus avenue and Twenty-first street; and
Hose Company No. 4, at the corner of Third and Hendricks streets.
In his report for the year ending on December 31, 1912, Chief Alford
said : "I wish to call your attention to the automobile fire apparatus. A
great many cities are installing it with a view of increasing the efBciency
as well as decreasing the cost of maintenance." Acting upon his sug-
gestion, the city purchased an automobile chemical engine in the summer
of 1913 at a cost of about $2,200. This engine is an Anderson product,
having been built by the Nyberg Automobile Works expressly for the
city fire department.
When Anderson was first incorporated as a city in 1865, the only
police officer was the city marshal. In 1889 the marshal's office was
abolished by an act of the state legislature and the metropolitan police
system was introduced. Under the operations of this system the duty of
keeping order and enforcing the ordinances and laws is vested in a
board of three commissioners. At the close of the year 1912 the board
of police commissioners was composed of Carl K. Stephens, Ralph B.
Clark and Fred Mustard. Carl K. Stephens is president and John B.
Pritchard, who is also superintendent of the police force, is secretary.
The police force proper is made up of the superintendent, one captain,
one sergeant, a clerk, a humane officer, a bailiff, a motorcycle man, a
detective, and seven patrolmen. In addition to this regular force there
are four special patrolmen with full police powers at the American Steel
and Wire Works, two at Mounds Park and two at the Rcmy Electric
104 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Works. During the year 1912 the pay roll of the department amounted
to $15,384.
No effort was ever made to dispose of Anderson's sewage until after
the discovery of natural gas. This is no reflection upon the city nor
upon the character of its inhabitants, as it has long been a custom in
country towns and smaller cities to let the sewage "take care of itself."
At the time natural gas was discovered the population of the city was
estimated at about 6,000. The United States census for 1890 — three
years later showed it to be 10,741. With this phenomenal increase in
population it became evident that some sanitary precautions were neces-
sary if the health of the people was to be preserved and their comfort
taken into consideration.
In January, 1891, the city engineer, Henry Rawie, was instructed to
investigate the subject and report upon the plan of a sewerage system
and the cost of its construction. Mr. Rawie at once opened a correspond-
ence with George E. Warring, of Newport, Rhode Island, a sanitary
engineer of national reputation, and after a consultation with llr.
Warring the council instructed the city engineer to make a map of the
city, showing its topography and the location of the proposed sewers.
When this map was completed it was submitted to the city council for
consideration. That body approved the plans of the city engineer and
advertised for sealed proposals for the construction of the sewers
as shown on the map. On July 15, 1891, a contract was entered into
between the city and the firm of Kinser and Tuhey, of Terre Haute,
Indiana, for the installation of a sewerage system, the contract price being
$71,900.
The contractors began immediately and prosecuted the work so well
that before the close of the year 1892 the entire system was pronounced
complete, accepted by the city and paid for according to the contract.
The cost of the sewerage system was assessed against the lots benefited
thereby and was paid for by the property holders under what was known
as the Barrett law, which gave them the privilege of making their pay-
ments in ten annual installments.
Mr. Rawie 's plan was at first severely criticised as being too elaborate
and expensive, but he was a man of progressive ideas who believed in
building for the future as well as the present. The system of sewers
built under his supervision as city engineer has been in use for more than
twenty years, and even those who were most free with their criticisms
now acknowledge that he was right. The members of the city council
who favored the scheme also came in for a share of the condemnation,
but after almost another generation has come upon the scene of action
they feel that their course has been fully sustained by the city's sanitary
condition during that period. No trouble has ever been experienced with
any of Anderson's sewers, for the reason that they were constructed
according to the most approved methods known, and it is quite probable
that few cities of the same class have as good a system.
Along with other municipal improvements that followed the discovery
of natural gas was a street railway system. As soon as Anderson began
her great strides forward in 1887, several persons of a speculative turn
of mind visited the city to look over the field with a view to the establish-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
105
ment of street car traffic on the principal streets and to the outlying
suburbs. On August 19, 1887, the city council granted a twelve-years'
franchise to Seldon R. and D. C. Williams, of Lebanon, Tennessee,
authorizing them to construct and maintain a street railway in Anderson.
Work was commenced soon afterward upon the line on Meridian street,
running from the Big Four to the Pan Handle passenger stations. In
order to accommodate travelei's by enabling them to reach the principal
hotels, changes were made in the route as originally intended, the line
running from the Big Four station north on Meridian street to Tenth,
east on Tenth to Main, north on Main to Ninth, west on Ninth to Meridian,
Old Horse Car
north on Meridian to Fifth and east on that street to the Pan Handle
station.
On the morning of September 6, 1888, the citizens of Anderson were
treated to the unusual spectacle of a street car, drawn by mules, passing
over the route above described. That evening the road was formally
opened, the railway company engaging the Riverside Park band and
inviting a number of prominent citizens to enjoy a free ride. The com-
pany had but two ears, each with a capacity of about twenty people.
In the front car was the band, closely followed by the second car in
which were the guests. Along the route the sidewalks were crowded
with people to congratulate themselves and the city that the "walking
days were over. ' '
Branch lines were later built from the main line to the railroad
junction in the southwestern part, and a third line to the northwestern
106
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
portion. The service, however, was not what the people had been led
to expect and it is doubtful if dividends were ever realized upon the
investment while the "mule motor" was in use. Under these conditions
the founders of the system were glad when an opportunity presented
itself for them to dispose of their interests to the Anderson Electric
Street Railway Companj'^ which was organized early in 1892 by Charles
L. Henry, of Anderson, and Philip flatter, of Marion, Indiana. As
soon as the new company came into possession of the street railway
electric power was installed, and the first electric car made its appearance
on the streets of Anderson at 2 o 'clock p. m. on March 12, 1892.
It has been said that capital is timid and not likely to seek investment
unless it is fully protected. But in this ease the reverse is true. At
the time the mules were discarded and electric power introduced by
First Trolley Car
the new company it had no franchise for the use of the streets. Messrs.
Henry, Matter and their associates felt confident that the people would
appreciate the improvement in the service and that the city council
would be willing to grant them a franchise upon liberal terms. They
were not mistaken, for on May 30, 1892, the council granted the new
company a franchise for thirty years. As soon as this was done the
company began the work of rebuilding the lines. The old iron rails
were taken up and heavy steel rails were put in their place. Old lines
were extended and new ones constructed. A large power house was
built and a better class of cars was put into service. Andei-son was the
first city in the gas belt to boast of an electric street railway, and it is a
matter for congratulation that the company was composed of local
capitalists whose interests were identical with those of the people. In
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 107
1896 Mr. Henry constructed the electric line from Anderson to Alex-
andria, which was the beginning of central Indiana's great interurban
system of electric railways now operated by the Union Traction Company.
Long before the discovery of natural gas or the introduction of
electric lights, Anderson was lighted by artificial, or manufactured gas.
Soon after the city was incorporated in 1865 Milton N. Harriman, then
city marshal, and John P. Barnes, a member of the city council, secured
the erection of iron posts through the business section, upon each of
which was placed a kerosene lamp. These were Anderson's first street
lights. In 1875 the city made a contract with G. F. Good, of Astabula,
Ohio, and H. C. Bardwell, of New York, to light the streets with gas and
gave them the use of the streets for a period of twenty years. The gas
plant — a comparatively small affair — was completed on July 2, 1875, and
on the evening of the 3d gas was used for lighting purposes for the
first time in Anderson. The gas was of good quality and was so far supe-
rior to any light that had preceded it that in a short time the company
was taxed to its full capacity to supply the demand.
About a year later N. C. McCuUough, one of the most energetic and
progressive of Anderson's citizens, saw that the enterprise was a paying
proposition and purchased the plant of the original builders. He con-
tinued the manufacture of illuminating gas successfully until the
discovery of natural gas in 1887. In the summer of that year Mr.
MeCullougli merged his interests in the Anderson Gas and Oil Company.
The first gas plant stood at the corner of Twelfth and Main streets and
remained there until Mr. McCullough sank a gas well in what was then
known as McCullough Park, at the east end of Eighth street. This gas
well, known as ' ' Vesuvius, ' ' was the largest ever opened in the Madison
county gas field, having a capacity of 10,000,000 cubic feet per day.
Mr. McCullough then removed the gas plant to East Eighth street,
enlarged the capacity to meet the demands of the community, and for
a year thereafter mixed natural gas with the manufactured product,
furnishing the citizens with gas for lighting purposes at a cheap rate
until the consolidation of the artificial and natural gas interests. Charles
T. Doxey then became a stockholder and the Anderson Gas and Oil
Company absorbed the artificial plant, which was consolidated with the
Citizens' Gas Company and the artificial plant passed out of existence.
The old plant, that stood idle for many years, with its franchise, was
purchased by the late C. W. Hooven and is now a part of the system
operated by the Central Indiaria Gas Company, though the old retorts
and buildings have been dismantled and a new plant erected.
A postoffice was established at Anderson in 1831 and Robert N.
Williams was appointed postmaster. He was also auditor and clerk
of the county and kept the postoffice in the clerk's office. At that time
Anderson was a station on the mail route running from Indianapolis to
Centerville, via Noblesville, Perkinsville, Anderson and Newcastle. The
mails were carried on horseback, the post-rider making two trips a week.
In 1839 Mr. Williams was succeeded by Nineveh Berry. It is said that
when a mail would arrive Colonel Berry would place the letters in his
hat and start out to deliver them to the persons to whom they were
addressed. From this fact he is credited with being the first postmaster
108
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
to introduce the free delivery system in Indiana, but the actual free
delivery system in Anderson was introduced by Postmaster H. J. Daniels
on June 3, 1890, when four carriers appointed by him and confirmed
by the government went into service. Shortly after that the number
was increased by the addition of two carriers and in 1893 four more were
added.
For many years the postoffice was kept in such buildings as could be
secured at a reasonable rental. In May, 1841, the county commissioners
rented a room in the court-house to Postmaster Berry, for which he was
to pay three dollars a month ' ' so long as he remains in the same. ' ' The
present postoffice building at the northeast corner of Eleventh and
Jackson streets was erected by the Federal government at a cost of
$85,000, and was opened for business in August, 1906. In 1913 the
Anderson Postoffice
persons employed in the office were the postmaster, assistant postmaster,
fifteen clerks, two substitute clerks, fifteen city carriers, two substitute
carriers for the city and thirteen rural carriers. The receipts of the
office for the fiscal year ending on June 30, 1913, were $91,100.03.
During the year the office issued domestic money orders amounting to
$146,692.95 and international orders amounting to $18,484.82. The
orders paid during the same period amounted to $215,340.90 for the
domestic and $2,817.20 for the international — quite a change from the
good old days when Colonel Berry carried around the receipts of an
entire mail in his hat. The present postmaster is Henry P. Hardie.
The first hotel — or tavern, as houses of entertainment were called
in those days — in Anderson was kept by John Berry, the founder of the
town, in a hewed log house on the west side of the public square. It
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 109
was the boast of the proprietor tliat his liouse had the best beds in the
United States, though he admitted that tliere might be more imposing
hotels in New York and a few other large cities. Berrj-'s house was a
favorite stopping place for the lawyers who followed the sessions of the
court from one county seat to another on the circuit.
"Uncle Billy" Myers was the second hotel keeper in the town. His
tavern was a two-story log house on the south side of the square. The
building was burned in 1851 and the same day Mr. IMyers purchased the
property at the southwest corner of Main and Tenth streets and imme-
diately resumed business. Some years later he bought a two-story build-
ing on the east side of the square and here he conducted the "Myers
House" until old age compelled, him to retire.
Another famous hostelry of the pioneer days was the "One Mile
House," which was built in 1839 by the widow of David Harris. It
One Mile House
stood on the bank of Green's branch, on the Strawtown road, or about
where Eighth street now crosses Green's branch. David Harris and
his wife came to Madison county about 1826. His death occurred about
a year later and his bodj' was interred in the old Indian burying ground
on East Ninth street. It is thought that his bones were taken away
by the Pan Handle Railroad Company when it opened a gravel pit on
the site of the old graveyard. The One Mile House was a two-story log
structure, with a one-story wing extending to the rear and for many
years it was the principal stopping place in the vicinity of Anderson for
immigrants going westward over the Strawtown road. Another hotel
of note in early times was the Antrim House, which stood on the site
now occupied by the Williams block on Meridian street, opposite the
Union building.
In 1852 Alfred jMakepeace erected a three-story brick building at
the southwest corner of Main and Ninth streets, which was really the
first pretentious hotel in the town. It was long known as the "United
States Hotel" and was one of the best known houses of entertainment
no HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
in central Indiana. After the death of Mr. Makepeace in 1875 the
building was torn down and a business block Was erected upon the
site.
The Doxey House, which is still doing business at the northeast corner
of Ninth and Main streets, was erected by Col. Thomas N. Stilwell
and was opened to the public as the "Stilwell House" in 1871 by John
Elliott, of Richmond, Indiana. The property was purchased by N. C.
McCullough in April, 1875, from the administrator of the Stilwell
estate and a year later Mr. McCullough sold it to Maj. Charles T.
Doxey, whose name it still bears.
In 1878 the Windsor Hotel was built by Cal. Lee at the northwest
comer of Seventh and Meridian, and in 1880 the Griffith House was
erected by George R. Griffith at the southeast corner of Tenth and
Meridian. Both these hotels have gone out of business. A business
block occupies the site of the Windsor and the Anderson Trust Company
has its place on the corner where the Griffith once dispensed good cheer.
After the discovery of natural gas J. W. Lovett and Dr. H. E. Jones
built the Hotel Anderson on North Meridian street between Sixth and
Seventh. It is now owned and occupied by the Loyal Order of Moose
for the supreme offices and as a club house.
The first newspaper published in the city was the Federal Union,
which was likewise the first paper publisher in Madison county. It was
started by T. J. Langdon in 1834, but was discontinued after a few
months. A more complete account of the newspapers and periodicals
of the present day will be found in the chapter on Educational Develop-
ment.
The first drug store was started by Dr. J. W. Westerfield in 1843,
on the south side of the public square, where he continued in business
until 1846, when he sold out to Attieus Siddall. The store was destroyed
by the big fire of 1851, which consumed the entire south side of the
square. About the beginning of the Civil war Dr. Westerfield again
became the proprietor of the store, and during the war the firm was
Westerfield & Menefee. Subsequently the place of business — on the
east side of the square — became widely known as the Henderson drug
store. This concern has been mentioned because it was one of the
famous places of rendezvous of the Madison county politicians. Many
times have the "pins been set up" at Henderson's drug store for the
nomination of some individual for an office, or for the defeat of another
who was not looked upon with favor. The old building is still standing
and were the walls endowed with the power of speech they could doubt-
less tell of many a political intrigue of bygone days.
Shortly after Anderson started on its natural gas boom some of the
business men began to advocate some sort of an organization for the
purpose of advertising the advantages of Anderson as a location for
new factories and in other ways advancing the material interests of the
city. The result of this agitation was that on the evening of May 24,
1887, a meeting was held at the court house for the purpose of organizing
a board of trade. George Nichol presided and E. E. Hendee was chosen
secretary. A committee was appointed to draft a constitution, by-laws
and articles of association, which it seems had been prepared in advance.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY m
as they were adopted the same evening. At a second meeting, held at
Chipman & Chipraan's law office on the evening of May 31, 1887,
George Nichol was elected president and M. A. Chipman, secretary.
At this meeting a communication in the nature of a proposal from a
prominent glass manufacturer was read and discussed, but no definite
action was taken to secure the location of the plant. Later in the year
the board became more active and a number of new industries were
established in Anderson under its influence.
An interesting relic of Anderson's early days is now owned by John
L. Forkuer. For want of a better name it might be called the first
city directory. It was compiled by Eli P. Brown in 1876 and is v/ritten
out with a pen in an old account book, the names being aiTanged in
alphabetical order by wards. On the front page is the inscription :
"Centennial Census, July, 1876, by Eli P. Brown.'" Opposite the name
of each person of foreign birth is written in the margin his nationality,
and the recapitulation shows 652 Irish, 266 Germans, 21 English, 12
French, 3,116 native born, and 51 colored — a total of 4,118. Of this
population 1,195 were children between the ages of six and twenty-one
years, and 527 were children under the age of six j-ears.
Following is a list of the mayors of Anderson from the time it was
incorporated as a city to the present, with the year in which each
assumed the duties of the office : Robert N. Williams, 1865 ; John 0.
Jones, 1866; Wesley Dunham, 1868; Simeon C. Martindale, 1870
William Roach, 1872 ; William L. Brown, 1874 ; Byron H. Dyson, 1876
James Hazlett, 1878 ; Wesley Dunham, 1882 ; John F. McClure, 1886
John H. Terhune, 1890 ; Morey H. Dunlap, 1894 ; John L. Forkner, 1902
John H. Terhune, 1905; Henry P. Hardie (acting), 1909; Frank P.
Foster, 1909.
Robert N. Williams, the first mayor, was elected soon after the city
-was incorporated in the summer of 1865 and served until the next general
election in the spring of 1866. His administration was uneventful as
there but little to be done except to preside over the deliberations of
the city council and occasionally impose a fine upon some offender who
might be brought before him as judge of the city court. He was the
first postmaster of Anderson, served as county clerk, auditor and re-
corder, and was at one time a large holder of Anderson real estate.
He was also one of the leading members of the Madison county bar for
many years. Mr. Williams was a Republican in politics, but by his
popularity as a citizen was chosen the first mayor by common consent,
without opposition. The first political contest for the mayoralty was
when the next general election took place in 1866, at which John C.
Jones defeated Mayor Williams for reelection.
John C. Jones, the second mayor, was a Virginian bj^ birth, but came
to Madison county a few years before the beginning of the Civil war
and was one of the pioneers of Boone township. His first appearance
in politics was as deputy sheriff under his brother-in-law, Benjamin
Sebrell, who was elected in 1860. While in this office he made many
acquaintances and was elected mayor in 1866. His administration of
two vears, like that of his predecessor, was uneventful. Mayor Jonea
112 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
was good-natured and good-hearted, and frequently sent some poor
man to his home after a lecture instead of imposing a fine.
Wesley Dunham was elected in 1868 and served until 1870. During
his administration the first street in the city to be improved on an
established grade was made passable. This was Water street (now
Central avenue). He believed in municipal progress in the way of
public works, and though this led to some criticism he was again elected
mayor in 1882 and reelected in 1884. After retiring from the mayor's
office he served several years as justice of the peace.
Simeon C. Martindale, who served as mayor from 1870 to 1872, was
the first Reput)lican to be elected to that office, as such, defeating Wesley
Dunham and Andrew Jackson. He M'as born in Henry county, was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1860 and was for many years a prominent figure as
a member of the bar of Madison county.
William Eoach succeeded Mayor Martindale in 1872 and served one
term. He had previously served as deputy sheriff and sheriff of the
county and had a wide circle of acquaintances. He was one of the pio-
neer merchants of Huntsville, in Fall Creek township, and was recog-
nized as a sterling citizen. In 1874, when he was a candidate for reelec-
tion, the temperance crusade, which swept over the country, struck
Anderson. Women paraded the streets and erected booths in front of
every saloon, where they held prayer meetings from the opening to the
closing hours, keeping tab on all who entered the places. Although
Mayor Roach was a temperance man, he yielded to the importunities of
the business men and issued a proclamation prohibiting public demon-
strations upon the streets or the holding of prayer meetings in front
of the saloons. Then the guns of the crusaders were turned upon the
mayor with such effect that he was defeated for reelection.
William L. Brown, the temperance candidate, was elected in 1874
and served for two years. In 1875 he took all the members of the
city council and a number of the leading citiens to Union City, Indiana,
to inspect the water works that had recently been established in that
city, with a view of awakening sufficient interest to induce Anderson
to follow the example. Nothing came of the effort, however, and it was
not until eleven years later that the Anderson water works were cpfi-
structed. Mr. Brown was public-spirited and was instrumental in
securing the building of the road from the Pan Handle tracks to the
cemetery, as well as other public improvement*. He subsequently re-
moved to Sterling, Kansas, where he died.
Byron H. Dyson succeeded iMayor Brown in 1876, being the young-
est man ever elected to the office in Anderson. At the time of his elec-
tion he was just from college and was a law student in the office of
Judge W. R. Pierse. As mayor he presided with dignity and tact and
was in all respects a good chief executive. After serving two years as
mayor he entered the field of journalism, was connected with the local
press and served as correspondent for some of the metropolitan papers.
In the early '90s he collaborated with John L. Forkner in the compila-
tion of a work entitled ' ' Historical Sketches and Reminiscences of Jladi-
son County."
James Hazlett was mayor from 1878 to 1882, serving two terms.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 113
He has been credited with being one of the smoothest politicians Madi-
son county ever produced. William C. Fleming, editor of the Demo-
cratic organ of the county and a warm personal friend of Mr. Hazlett,
was wont to allude to him as the "smoothing iron" of the Republican
party. Mr. Hazlett also held the offices of county clerk, county treas-
iirer and county commisiouer at different times. At one time he was
a large property holder and was once a partner with William Grim in
the grain business. Hazlett 's addition, in the northwestern part of the
city, is upon land once owned by him. Atjout 1888 he removed to River-
side, California, where he died some years later.
John F. ilcClure was elected mayor in 1886 and at the close of his
first term in 1888 was reelected. It was during his two administrations
that Anderson made her phenomenal growth following the discovery
of natural gas. Mayor McClure was one of the active spirits in organ-
izing the board of trade and was one of the first men to advocate the
paving of the streets with brick. After retiring from the mayor's office
he was a member of the city council; was twice elected judge of the
Madison Circuit Court, and is now serving as a member of the Indiana
Railroad Commission.
John H. Terhune, who was elected mayor in 1890, 1892 and in 1905
for a four-year term, was one of Anderson 's largest manufacturers. He
was a man of fine executive ability, a shrewd business man and just as
shrewd in politics as he was in business matters. He was the owner of
several business blocks and was always ready to contribute of his time
and means for the promotion of Anderson's interests. As a member of
the Indiana legislature he acquitted himself with credit, and his admin-
istration as mayor were marked by that progressive spirit which was so
characteristic of the man. His death occurred in 1909, before he had
completed his last term.
Morey j\I. Dunlap, who was elected mayor in 1894, was the only man
who has ever served eight successive years as mayor of Anderson. Before
locating in Anderson he had served for one term as mayor of Blooming-
ton, Indiana. He was always alert to every movement for the benefit
of the city, was public spirited and companionable and his administra-
tions have passed into history as clean and business like in all respects.
John L. Forkner was elected mayor in 1902 and at the close of his
first term was reelected. His administrations are notable for the re-
building of the electric lighting plant, the improvements of the water
works by the installation of the filtration system, etc. Mayor Forkner
was fortunate in having a cit}' council composed of men who were
always ready to lay aside political differences when the welfare of the
city was concerned.
Henry P. Hardie was appointed city controller by Mayor Terhune
and upon the death of the mayor early in 1909 Mr. Hardie became
mayor by virtue of his office. He served oiit the unexpired term in a
manner that was entirely acceptable to the people, but at the end of the
term did not ask to be elected to the office as many expected and hoped.
Mr. Hardie was at one time one of the police commissioners and is now
postmaster.
Frank P. Foster, the present incumbent, is a graduate of the In-
114 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
diana State University and one of the prominent members of the bar
of Madison county, having been engaged in the practice of law for
many years. As Madison county's representative in the lower branch
of the state legislature his counsel was sought on all important meas-
ures that came before that body and he has been a factor in the public
and political life of Anderson ever since becoming a resident of the
city. He was elected mayor in 1909 for a term of four years, which
expires in January, 1914.
According to the United States census for 1910, Anderson is the
seventh city ia Indiana in population, being exceeded in that respect
only by Indianapolis, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Terre Haute, South Bend
and Muncie, in the order named. In 1910 the population of Anderson
was 22,476, an increase of nearly 12 per cent, during the preceding
decade. The city has 6 banking institutions, 29 religious organiza-
tions, lodges of all the leading fraternal orders, 10 public school build-
ings, the high school building being one of the finest in the country,
several good hotels, a large number of well stocked mercantile estab-
lishments, several fine office buildings, well paved streets and concrete
sidewalks, neat residences, a public park, which was dedicated on July
4, 1913, a fine public library building, and a number of large manu-
facturing concerns described in another chapter. The property of the
city was assessed for tax purposes in 1913 at $10,226,745.
One thing that impresses the visitor to Anderson is the large num-
ber of shade trees that line the streets. From the tower of the court-
house the city looks like one vast grove, with here and there a house
visible among the trees. Cleveland, Ohio, once rejoiced in the name of
the "Forest City," but never in her history was the streets of that city
as well shaded as those of the residence sections of Anderson at the pres-
ent time. Among the residents there is a spirit of friendly rivalry as
to who can keep their lawns and shade trees in the best condition, giv-
ing the city an air of comfort and prosperity.
i
1
CHAPTER VIII
CITIES AND TOWNS
Extinct Towns and Villages — Incorporated Towns — Elwood —
Alexandria — Pendleton — Summitville — Frankton — Lapel
— Chesterfield — Markleville — ■ Ingalls — Orestes — Smaller
Villages — Alliance — Emporia — Ovid — Leisure — Huntsville
— Halford — Perkinsville — Florida — Linwood — Fishersburg — List
of Postoffices in the County — Rural Routes.
Since the formation of Madison county as a separate political divi-
sian of the state in 1823, a number of towns or villages have been estab-
lished or projected within her borders. Some of these have survived
and have become industrial centers of considerable importance ; others
move along in "the even tenor of their way" as neighborhood trading
points or post-villages, and still others have succumbed to the inevitable
and are no longer in existence. In the chapters on township history
will be found mention of most of these extinct towns, as well as a few
of the minor villages still on the map, but for the convenience of the
reader a list of these places is here given, to wit :
Victoria, Rockport and Omaha, in Anderson township ; Independ-
ence, Forrestville and Clarktown, in Boone; IMenden, in Fall Creek;
Alfont, in Green; Nancy town, an Indian village, in Jackson; Keller's
Station, in Lafayette; Gilaaan and Osceola, in Monroe; Dundee, Monti-
cello and New Madison, in Pipe Creek; Moonville, Pittsborough, Mount
Pleasant and Prosperity, in Richland; Graber's Station and Johnson's
Crossing, in Stony Creek; Slyfork or Branson, in Union.
Anderson, the county seat and largest city, is treated in the preced-
ing chapter. Next to Anderson, Elwood and Alexandria, in the order
named are the largest and most important centers of population. Other
incorporated towns are Chesterfield, Frankton, Ingalls, Lapel, Markle-
ville, Orestes, Pendleton and Summitville.
Elwood
Elwood had its beginning in 1852, when William Barton opened a
general store there. On March 1, 1853, the town was regularly laid
out by James Anderson, J. B. Frazer and Mark Simmons and named
Quincy by the founders. Soon after that a postoffice was established
with William Barton as postmaster. As there was already one post-
ofiSce in the state (in Owen county) called Quincy, the one at Elwood
115
116
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
was named Duck Creek. The confusion arising from having one name
for the town and another for the postofifice often was the cause of both
ludicrous and serious embarrassments, but the condition continued for
more than fifteen years, when Captain F. M. Hunter, who was then
postmaster, enlisted the cooperation of some of the citizens in a move-
ment to change the name of both town and postoffice to Elwood, the
new name becoming effective on July 21, 1869.
In December, 1872, Elwood was incorporated as a town with the
following officers: G. W. Rupp, John Ross and Huston Clendenen,
City Building, Elwood
trustees; J. H. Hunter, clerk; George Ross, treasurer; J. M. Parsons,
marshal. The population was then between three hundi-ed and four
hundred and the principal articles of export were lumber and cooper-
age materials. The town boasted a brick school house, a fine flour mill,
a hotel, several well appointed stores and a bank. The last named insti-
tution had been established by William Barton in 1870, about two years
before the incorporation.
Although Elwood continued to grow steadily, its development was
comparatively slow until after the discovery of natural gas in the im-
mediate vicinity in 1887. Then it experienced a boom. Within two
years the population and business interests had increased to such an
extent that some of the more enterprising and progressive citizens began
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 117
to advocate the establishment of a city goverument. As a result of the
agitation an election was called for April 27, 1891, to give the voters
an opportunity to express themselves for or against the incorporation
of Elwood as a city. The whole number of votes cast at the election
was 523, of which 377 were in favor of the proposition and 146 against
it, a majority of 231 in favor of a city government. As. soon as the
customary preliminaries were complied with, the city was divided into
four wards and an election for city officers was ordered for the 9th
of June.
To William A. Dehority belongs the distinction of having been El-
wood's first mayor. He was born in Elwood (or Quincy, as it was then
called), on October 24, 1868, and was therefore in his twenty-third year
when called by his fellow townsmen to be the city's first chief executive.
At the time of his election he was the youngest mayor in the state of
Indiana, but his energy, fine educational qualifications and inherent
executive ability soon made it manifest that no mistake had been com-
mitted by the people when they intrust-ed him with the important duty
of inaugurating the new municipal regime. Mr. Dehority was also
Indiana's first chief stale accountant, appointed by Governor Marshall.
The other officers elected at the same time as Mayor Dehority were
0. A. Armfield, clerk ; T. L. Dehority, treasurer ; F. M. Hunter, Jr.,
marshal ; G. W. Boyer and Jacob Kraus, councilmen for the first ward ;
Martin E. Goode and Hugh Lyst, for the second; Daniel Heck and S.
H. Cochran, for the third; and John Frith and W. B. Willets, for the
fourth.
One of the first acts of the new city administration was the passage
of an ordinance granting a franchise to a company to put in a system
of water works. This ordinance was approved by the mayor on July
27, 1891, work was commenced on the plant immediately afterward,
and water was supplied to a part of the city by the close of the year.
The source of supply is fourteen, eight-inch deep wells. A reservoir with
a capacity of one million and six hundred thousand gallons forms part of
the system, the water being forced through the mains for ordinary pur-
poses at a pressure of forty pounds to the square inch, which may be
increased to one hundred pounds in case of fire. The quality of the
■water is above the average for cities of Elwood 's size, and the quantity
has always been sufficient to supply the demands.
About the time the franchise was granted to the water company an
electric lighting company was also granted a charter. Some years later
the equipment of this company, with patronage and good will, was trans-
ferred to the Indiana Service Company, which controls electric light and
power plants in a number of cities through central Indiana.
When natural gas was first struck near Elwood, the people were so
elated over the prospect of securing cheap light and fuel that a company
was formed and mains laid through the streets and alleys at pleasure,
without the formality of asking for a franchise. After the city govern-
ment had been in operation for some time, this company sought and
obtained a franchise giving it the right to extend its mains, etc., and
also regulating the rates to be charged for gas.
The first electric cars appeared upon the streets of Elwood in the
118 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
summer of 1893. The privilege of laying tracks upon certain streets
had been granted by the city authorities some time before, but the work
was delayed by the opposition of both the Lake Erie & Western and the
Pennsylvania Railroad Companies, which tried to prevent the street
railway lines from crossing their tracks. The street railway system is
now owned by the Indiana Union Traction Company.
On April 1, 1892, the first Elwood fire department was organized.
It consisted of two regular men, eight volunteers, one wagon and two
horses. In 1895 six paid men were added to the department, which was
still further strengthened by the addition of two more in 1899, after
which time volunteers ceased to form part of the department. The city
now has two hose wagons and a hook and ladder truck, housed in good
buildings and provided with everything that contributes to efficiency.
The working force consists of a chief, an assistant chief and eight men
who give their entire time to the city and are always ready to answer
calls.
Soon after the inauguration of the city government the marshal
gave way to an organized police department, which in 1913 consisted
of a chief, a sergeant and seven patrolmen.
In 1899 a city hall was erected at a cost of $35,000. In the base-
ment are located the heating plant and cells for the city's prisoners.
The main floor is occupied by the municipal offices and the mayor's
court, and in the south wing quarters are provided for the hook and
ladder truck and one of the hose wagons. The inscription on the cor-
ner-stone shows that at the time the building was erected F. M. Harbit
was the mayor; J. J. Davis, city clerk; W. A. Hupp, city treasurer;
John Finan, city engineer; Phil Hamm, J. L. Ringo, Lute Douge and
"William Davis, councilmen; T. F. Harnack and E. Rummel, building
committee, and that J. E. Alexander & Son were the architects who
designed the building.
The city government in 1913 was composed of Austin Brumbaugh,
mayor; John Nearom, city clerk; V. M. Maines, city treasurer; A. R.
Foland, chief of police; Frank Toler, sergeant; Herman Barber, chief
of the fire department; J. H. Snyder, assistant chief, and the council
was composed of five members instead of eight as when the city was
first incorporated. At one time Elwood was divided into five wards,
but in recent years the number has been reduced to three, each of which
elects a councilman and there are two councilmen at large. The pres-
ent council i^ made up of C. C. Haworth and Edmon H. Peters, coun-
cilmen at large; Albert L. Klapp, representing the first ward; W. E.
Clymer, the second, and E. B. Weismantel, the third. These officers
retire in January, 1914, except the members of the fire and police de-
partments.
From the little Duck Creek postoffice, established on February 5,
1855, with William Barton as postmaster, the postal business of El-
wood has grown to such proportions as to justify the erection of a spe-
cial building by the Federal government for its aceommodation. Accord-
ingly, an appropriation was made for that purpose by Congress and
work on the building was commenced on April 22, 1912. On July 21,
1913, it was opened to the public. The new postoffice is located at the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 119
corner of North A and Anderson streets, near the business center of the
city, and was completed at a cost of $57,555. Besides the postmaster
and assistant postmaster, the office employs five clerks and six carriers
in the city and six rural carriers deliver mail from the Elwood office to
the surrounding country.
Since the incorporation of Elwood as a city, several clubs or associa-
tions have been formed by the business men for the promotion of the
material welfare of the city and its industries. The present Merchants'
and Manufacturers' Club was organized on September 13, 1911, and
numbers ninety-eight members. The officers for 1913 were: M. J. Fo-
garty, president; B. H. Campbell, vice president; R. J. Weber, secretary;
W. E. Harting, treasurer.
The Elwood of today has twelve miles of brick streets, five modern
public school buildings, twelve churches, a free public library, a central
heating plant that supplies hot water heat to over one hundred buildings,
lodges of all the leading fraternal organizations, four of which own
their homes, two daily newspapers, three banks and one trust company
with deposits of about $1,500,000, good hotels and theaters, two large
grain elevators, a well equipped flour mill, several important manufac-
turing establishments, over one hundred retail mercantile houses, and is
surrounded by one of the best agricultural districts in the state. Excel-
lent transportation and shipping facilities are afforded by the Lake Erie
& Western and Pan Handle railroads and the Indiana Union Traction
Company. In 1910 the population, according to the United States census,
was 11,028, and the assessed value of the property in 1912 was $3,188,690.
Th€ business development of Elwood, bringing it up from a mere vil-
lage to a city of large proportions, is largely due to the enterprise and
loyalty of the Dehority family and the Callaways. These two families
were in business in Elwood when it was but a "speck" on the map,
and they both prospered to such an extent that when the moment came
to make strides toward making Elwood a city, they were there, ready to
lead the procession. No proposition for the betterment of Elwood has
ever presented itself that did not receive their hearty support.
Alexandria
Alexandria, the third city of the county in population, is situated
on Pipe creek, near the center of Monroe township, ten miles north of
Anderson, with which city it is connected by the Michigan division of
the Big Four railway, and a line of the Indiana Union Traction system.
The first white settler in Monroe township, Micajah Chamness, located
here in 1831. Others came soon after and quite a settlement had grown
up in the vicinity before the town was formally laid out. Soon after the
passage of the internal improvement act by the state legislature of 1836,
John D. Stephen.son and William Connor came to the conclusion that
the Indiana Central canal must pass near this settlement and conceived
the idea of starting a town on the banks of Pipe creek. They therefore
purchased of Micajah Chamness the east half of the northeast quarter
of section 24 and employed Nineveh Berry, at that time county survej'or,
to lay out the town. The survey and plat were completed on June 3, 1836,
120 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and on the next day was held the first sale of lots. News of the canal had
spread and a large number of buyers were present, the prices of lots
ranging from ten to tifty-three dollars.
Thus the town started off under favorable auspices. Soon after it
was laid out Nineveh Berry erected a log house at the southeast corner
of what are now Berry and Clinton streets and, as the agent of Conner
& Stephenson, put in a stock of general merchandise. This was the
first mercantile establishment in Monroe township. In a few months
Colonel Berry's official duties as surveyor called him to Anderson and
David L. Pickard became his successor as manager of the store. About
this time a postoffiee was established and Mr. Pickard was appointed
postmaster. He was succeeded by Nathan E. Tomlinson, who came
from Yorktown, Delaware county, in 1839 as manager of the store of
Burner & Company.
The first hotel in the town was opened by David L. Pickard in 1838,
in a log house weather-boarded on the outside, located at the corner of
Harrison and Berry streets, where it remained standing for fifty years
or more as one of Alexandria's landmarks. In that day there were no
railroads, and, as most of the travel was on horseback, the frontier hotels
were generally prepared to furnish "entertainment for both man and
beast." For this service Mr. Pickard 's rates were sixty cents per day.
Connor and Stephenson had judged rightly when they anticipated
that the canal would pass Alexandria, and when it was located in 1838
the town enjoyed an era of prosperity that lasted until the canal project
was abandoned about two years later. For the twenty years from 18-40
to 1860 the growth of Alexandria was rather slow. Among the enter-
prises established during this period were the mercantile houses of
William Calloway (1845) and William T. Scott (1847), and the fan-
ning mill factory of Wolfe & Sherman in 1850. At the beginning of the
Civil war in 1861 the population of Alexandria was about 350.
In 1875 two railroads — the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan and the
Lafayette, Muncie & Bloomington — were completed through Alexandria.
The former of these roads is now the Michigan division of the Big Four,
and the latter is the Lake Erie & Western. With the advent of the rail-
roads Alexandria experienced a marked increase in both population and
business activity. So much so, indeed, that early in the summer of
1876 the town was incorporated with the following officers : Nathan E.
Tomlinson, E. B. Chanmess and Gideon Kiefer, trustees; J. M. Tomlin-
son, clerk; Seth B. Henshaw, treasurer; ilarion Tuttle, marshal. The
first meeting of the town board was held on July 5, 1876.
Attracted to the enterprising little town, Joseph Fenimore started
the publication of the Alexandria Bee in 1877, but he "reckoned with-
out his host," for the patronage was not equal to his expectations and
after a somewhat precarious career of a few months the Bee was forced
to suspend.
On March 27, 1887, the first natural gas well in Madison county,
near the end of East Washington street came in with a strong pressure
and for the third time Alexandria was due for a boom. The population
was then about 800. The enterprising citizens were not slow to recog-
nize the possibilities and offered flattering inducements to manufac-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
121
turers to locate in Alexandria. The first window glass factory in the
county was started by Harper & Cruzen in 1888. Within the next three
years two large brick factories, four glass works, the Kelly Ax Works
and the Union Steel Company, established themselves in Alexandria.
The 3,500 men employed by these concerns, as well as a number employed
by several smaller concerns, added materially to the population and it
soon became evident that the old town government was too antiquated
in form for a municipality that was going forward by leaps and bounds
like Alexandria. Consequently Alexandria was incorporated as a city
in 1893, with the following officers: John E. Sherman, mayor; L. J.
Hernly, clerk; E. C. Robinson, treasurer; W. W. Penimore, marshal;
C. F. Heritage and John Reese, couneilnien for the First ward ; Joseph
Brannum and Henry Herr, Second ward ; T. AV. JIullen and Peter
Hartman, Third ward.
In 1913 the city government was administered by James H. Edwards,
mayor; Bernard M. Madden, city clerk; Horace J. Inlow, treasurer; D.
Alexandria View
A. Allman and John M. Walker, councilmen at large; George C. Her-
man, First ward ; Charles P. Meyer, Second ward ; John F. Kelly, Third
ward ; D. R. Jones, city attorney ; S. E. Donahoo, chief of police ; John '
F. Merker, chief of the fire department ; Emmet N. Hollowell, assistant
chief; Dr. E. J. Beardsley, health officer.
On the night of December 6, 1891, fire was discovered in Pauly's jew-
elry store about midnight and every building in that square was de-
stroyed before the flames could be checked. All the buildings were
frame except the one occupied by H. P. Williams' saloon. A few days
after the fire the walls of this structure fell and buried John Fink and
William Morley, the latter a boy about fifteen years old, in the ruins.
Both were unconscious when rescued and died soon afterward. Another
disastrous fire occurred on the night of January 21, 1893, starting in
Clayton's grocery on the west side of Harrison street, between Church
and Wood streets. Although the citizens rendered such aid as they
could on both these occasions, it was apparent that the city needed some
systematic protection against conflagrations. The city council was
122 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
appealed to by the citizens to establish a fire department, but the state
of the public finances was such that nothing could be done by the munic-
ipal authorities.
In this emergency R. H. Hannah, A. E. Harlan, S. E. Young,
Anthony Bertsehe and J. P. Condo, five of the public spirited citizens,
came forward with a proposition to furnish the money to purchase a
hook and ladder truck, a two-horse chemical engine and a small fire
extinguisher if the people would undertake to man them. The appa-
ratus was purchased in Chicago and upon its arrival in Alexandria a
meeting was held at the office of Mayor Sherman to organize a fire com-
pany. Forty men volunteered and Pink Varble, Joseph Brannum,
Joseph Fulton and T. W. Mullen were elected a board of directors. This
was the beginning of Alexandria's fire department. As the city pos-
sessed no suitable building for the chemical engine and hook and lad-
der truck, they were kept in a livery stable until more adequate quar-
ters could be provided.
After the completion of the water works the chemical engine was
dispensed with, and the department at the present time consists of a
chief, assistant chief and four men, aU paid by the city. The apparatus
consists of a hook and ladder truck and a hose wagon, stationed in a
buildijig on Wayne street, just south of the city building.
On September 2, 1895, bonds to the amount of $40,000 were issued
for the purpose of constructing a water works system for the city.
Mains were laid through all the principal streets, both in the business
and residence districts, a large steel stand-pipe and pumping station
were erected and a number of deep wells were sunk to furnish the
water supply. AU the bonds have been paid except $4,000, which are
not due until 1915. Alexandria has a modern water works system and
a bountiful supply of good water and the entire plant is owned by the
city.
In 1893 the Alexandria Electric Lighting Company was organized
and within a comparatively short time had its plant in operation. This
plant is now operated by the Indiana Service Company.
For more than ten years after the city was incorporated, the munic-
ipal officers occupied rented quarters, but in 1905 a lot was purchased at
the southeast corner of Church and "Wayne streets and James McGuire
was employed to make plans for a city building. From the inscrip-
tion on the corner stone it is learned that J. H. Edwards was then
mayor ; H. J. Inlow, city clerk ; J. S. Wales, treasurer ; J. W. Mountain,
marshal ; A. H. Jones, attorney ; M. Miller, F. C. Jones, N. Booth, A.
Schilling, J. F. Kelly and J. H. Prank, councilmen; O'Hara & Good-
win, contractors. The cost of the administration building was $7,679
and the contract provided that it should be completed by May 1, 1906.
Just south of this building is the city prison, or jail, which was erected
about the same time at a cost of $950, and south of the jail is a brick
building for the use of the fire department, erected in 1905 at a cost
of about $3,000. With these buildings Alexandria is as well provided
with municipal accommodations as any city of its size in the state.
Immediately across Wayne street from the administration building is
the Carnegie Library.
1
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 123
The citizens of Alexandria have always been alert to any and every-
thing that would conduce to the material welfare and progress of their
city. To this end the Alexandria Business Men's Association was organ-
ized on January 24, 1911, and now numbers seventy -five members, with
the following officers : F. C. Jones, druggist, president ; L. S. Mahony,
shoe merchant, vice-president; William P. Snethen, tailoring, secre-
tary; S. G. Phillips, banker, treasui'cr. This association assumes charge
of celebrations, advertising, etc., and in other ways endeavors to pro-
mote the interests of the city and its people.
According to the United States census of 1910, the population of
Alexandria was then 5,096. In 1912 the property of the city was
assessed for taxes at $1,159,275, or about $225 for each man, woman and
child living within the corporate limits. The city has four modern pub-
lic school buildings, two banks, two newspapers, one of which issues a
daily edition, fourteen religious organizations, adequate fire and police
departments, a number of well stocked mercantile establishments, well
paved streets over a large part of the city, good hotels, and although the
industries of the city suffered great inconvenience through the failure
of natural gas, there are still several large manufactories at Alexan-
dria. The United States postoffice employs six persons in the office,
four city and eight rural carriers and annually handles a large amount
of mail. John C. Brattain was postmaster in 1913. The first lawyer to
locate in Alexandria was Peter H. Lemon, who opened an office there
in 1842. The first resident physician was a Dr. Spence, who established
himself in the village soon after it was laid out and built the first brick
house in the town. The city now has its full quota of lawyers and doc-
tors.
Pendleton
- This town has the distinction of being one of the oldest in the county. It
is situated near the center of Fall Creek township, on the main line of the
Big Four Railway, eight miles southwest of Anderson. In the early settle-
ment of Fall Creek township a majority of the pioneers located along Fall
creek, near the falls, and their houses were so near to each other that
the settlement had the appearance of a town without ever having been
laid out as such. Thomas M. Pendleton, who owned the land upon
which the major portion of the town now stands, and for whom the
place was named, seeing the desirability of the location, decided to
found a town in the regular way. Accordingly, he employed a surveyor
and on January 13, 1830, had his farm divided into lots and a copy of
the plat filed with the county recorder.
When the county of Madison was erected in 1823, the seat of jus-
tice was established at Pendleton, the organic act providing that the
sessions of the court should be held at the house of William McCartney,
which stood near the falls of Fall Creek. Oliver H. Smith, in his
"Early Reminiscences of Indiana," in giving an account of the famous
trials of the white men for the Indian murders, says: "A new log
building was erected at the north part of Pendleton, with two rooms,
one for the court and one for the grand jury. The court room was about
124 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
twenty by thirty feet with a heavy 'puncheon' floor, a platform at one
end, three feet high, a bench for the judges, a plain table for the clerk,
in front, a long bench for the counsel, a little pen for the prisoners, a
side bench for the witnesses, and a long pole in front, substantially sup-
ported, to separate the crowd from the bar."
This was doubtless the first courthouse ever erected in the county.
The business of the county was transacted at Pendleton until after the
passage of the act of January 26, 1827, which appointed a commission
to select a location for a permanent county seat. A full account of the
work of this commission, and the establishment of the seat of justice at
Anderson, will be found in Chapter IV.
Thomas Silver had opened a store a year or two before the town
was surveyed. He was the pioneer merchant and the brick building
erected by him on the corner of State and Main streets was the first
business building of that kind in Pendleton. Other early merchants
were Palmer Patrick, James Gray, Joseph Bowman and William Silver.
Palmer Patrick was associated for a time with Thomas Silver. James
Gray came in 1833 and at the time of his death in 1850 was considered
the leading merchant of the town. Joseph Bowman remained but a
short time, when he removed to Middletown, where he finally died.
William Silver came in 1838 and engaged in business alone. Ten years
later he transferred his store to his son, J. R. Silver, who conducted it
for many years.
The first tavern was a frame building on the south side of State
street, a short distance west of Main. It was built by Jacob Mingle for
a residence, but, the town being without a hotel, he opened it for the
accommodation of travelers, chiefly immigrants seeking homes in "the
new country. ' '
James Bell, who came to Pendleton in 1833, conducted a hotel for
awhile at the corner of State and Main streets, but later converted the
building into a mercantile establishment. The "Madison House," a
two-story frame building on the south side of Main street, west of State,
was erected and opened as a hotel by Jesse Boston about 1835. He died
two years later, but his widow continued to conduct the hotel until her
death some years afterward, when the house was closed. The building
occupied by James Gray's residence and store, at the northeast corner
of State and Main streets, was converted into a hotel about 1852 and
was first conducted by James H. Smithers, under the name of the Pen-
dleton House. After several changes in ownership it passed into the
hands of F. E. Ireland, who changed the name to the Commercial Hotel.
This building was destroyed by fire on July 7, 1897.
During the first twenty years of its career, the growth of Pendle-
ton was "slow but sure." In 1850 the Indianapolis & Belief ontaine
Railroad (now the Big Four) was completed to Pendleton and proved a
great stimulus to the town. On October 12, 1850, Nineveh Berry made
a new survey of Pendleton and about the same time two or three addi-
tions were made to the original plat. A year or so later a movement
was started for the incorporation of the town, and after the usual pre-
liminaries in the way of circulating petitions, etc., an election was
ordered for December 24, 1853, to determine the question. Nathaniel
f
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 125
Richmond, T. G. Mitchell and G. M. Rogers were the election inspectors,
and upon canvassing the returns they found thirty-seven votes for the
incorporation and only four against it. The first officers were as fol-
lows: Nathaniel Richmond, William Silver, Joseph Stephenson, M.
Chapman and R. Clark, trustees; T. G. Mitchell, clerk; John Huston
(or Houston), treasurer; David Bousman, marshal. The first meeting
of the town board was held on March 31, 1854, when Nathaniel Rich-
mond was elected president of the board.
The present town government is composed of William Swain, Fred
Lantz, Stephen Hair, T. A. Baker and J. W. Linder, trustees; D. B.
Cole, clerk and treasurer ; Edward Burdette, marshal. The school board
is made up of J. J. Rodger, president; Dr. L. E. Alexander, secretary;
George P. Longnecker, treasurer.
In Harden 's ' ' Pioneer, ' ' published in 1895, is an article from the pen
of Mrs. Caroline E. Russell, giving her early recollections of Pendle-
ton. Mrs. Russell- says that about 1831 the citizens decided to have a pub-
lic well and a man by the name of Adam Anderson was employed to dig
it. At the brick store, where many of. the inhabitants were in the habit
of loafing of evenings, a collection would be taken up each evening to
pay Anderson for his day's work. If there was not enough to satisfy
his demand he would cover up the well and wait until he received his
wages before proceeding with the work. In time, however, the well was
completed and was the principal source of water supply for the greater
part of the town. Before it was dug the people carried water for some
distance from two springs — one known as the "Spout Spring," which
was located south of the central part of the town near the right of way
of the Big Four Railroad, and the other north of Fall creek, not far
from the Fishersburg pike.
In common with other Madison county towns, Pendleton enjoyed
a prosperous career for a few years following the discovery of natural
gas. Several new manufacturing establishments were located and for
a time the town wore an atmosphere of industrial activity. With the
failure of the gas supply most of the factories were discontinued or
removed to other points, though there are still some industries of this
nature in operation, mention of which is made in the chapter on Finance
and Industries. Pendleton has a commercial club, of which A. B. Tay-
lor is president and Charles Goodrich is secretary, the purpose of
which is similar to that of such organizations in other towns — to adver-
tise Pendleton and its advantages and by cooperating secure favor-
able freight rates, etc. The Big Four Railroad and one of the principal
lines of the Indiana Union Traction Company afford excellent transpor-
tation and shipping facilities.
The Pendleton of the present day has a modern school building, four
churches, a weekly newspaper, well paved streets, two banks, several
well equipped mercantile establishments and a number of handsome
residences. The population in 1910 was 1,293.
SUMMITVILLE
This town was laid out in 1867 by Aaron M. Williams, who was one
of the pioneers in that section of the county. He established a tanyard,
126 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
which he operated in connection with his farm, kept a general store and
also entertained travelers at his residence. A settlement grew up about
the store and tannery and Mr. Williams sold several lots by metes and
bounds before any regular plat of the town was made and recorded.
Summitville is located a little west of the center of Van Buren town-
ship, seventeen miles north of Anderson. It was first called "Skipper-
ville," but when the surveyors marked the line of the old Indianapolis
& Fort Wayne State road, some years before any settlement was made
where Summitville now stands, they marked that point as the highest
ground between Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. The name of Skipper-
ville not being very dignified or euphonious, it was changed to Summit-
ville, which name was adopted to correspond to the report of the sur-
veyors. A short distance north of the town is the watershed that divides
the valleys of the Wabash and the White river.
Among the early settlers in the vicinity of Summitville were Thomas
Cartwright and his son, William T., who came from Wayne county,
Indiana, early in the fall of 1835. Seven years before that the family
had come from North Carolina and settled at Milton, Wayne county.
Thomas Cartwright kept a tavern on the canal, just south of Summit-
ville. He was one of the three trustees that ordered the erection of the
second public schoolhouse in Van Buren township. His grandson, T.
E. Cartwright, of Summitville, still has in possession the old clock
brought to the settlement by his grandfather in 1835.
Other pioneers who located near where Summitville now stands were
John Thurston, Sr., Asbury Chaplin, George M. and Henry Vinson,
James Oldfield, Harrison McLain, Lemuel Jones, James M." Hundley,
Isaac Woods, John M. Harris, John Allman, Aquila Moore, Aaron M.
Williams apd John Beck.
In November, 1867, Henry Roby opened a store — the first business
enterprise to be established after the town was laid out — but soon after-
ward sold out to Aquila Moore & Son. Some time before that a post-
ofBee had been established about two miles north of the town and Wil-
liam Knowland was the first postmaster. About the time Moore & Son
purchased Mr. Roby's interests, the postofQce was removed to the store
and Aquila Moore was appointed postmaster. The first mails were car-
ried on horseback from Strawtown, Hamilton county, over "blazed"
roads through the woods. Daniel Dwiggins was the first mail rider.
Then Caleb May and Kuhn Slagle began running a stage line between
Anderson and Marion and they carried the mails — north one daj' and
south the next. Thomas Cranfill was the last man to carry the mails by
vehicle prior to the completion of the railroad.
Dr. Cyrus Graul located at Summitville soon after the town was
laid out, though Drs. S. B. Harriman, C. V. Garrett, John Wright, W.
V. McMahan, S. T. Brunt, T. J. Clark and M. L. Cranfill had all prac-
ticed in the neighborhood before that time.
In 1876 the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Railroad (now the Big
Four) was completed to Summitville and a station was established there
with J. P. Smith as agent. James H. Wooden erected a grain warehouse,
several new business enterprises came in and Summitville experienced
its first real boom. Such was the growth during the next few years that
\
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 127
on December 31, 1881, Summitville was incorporated by order of the
board of county commissioners, though the town ofiBcers were not elected
until May 1, 1882, when Joseph A. Allen, Moses Stone and George W.
Fear were chosen trustees; Frank Ilernley, clerk; W. H. Williams,
treasurer; and J. M. Williams, marshal. In 1913 the officers were as
follows: Isaac F. Wilbanks, William W. Bryson and Oscar A. Vinson,
trustees; John M. Kaufman, clerk; Maurice Warner, treasurer; Lytle
Bair, marshal.
The town's second boom came with the discovery of natural gas. In
a short time after the first gas well was sunk Summitville became one
of the thriftiest and most enterprising towns in the county. Among
the industries established there during the gas era were three glass fac-
tories, a large brick factory and the Summitville Tile Works, as well as
several smaller concerns. Some of these industries are still running.
About 1890 or 1891 a question was raised as to the legality of the town's
incorporation. Through the influence of J. M. Hundley, the legislature
of 1895 passed an act legalizing the incorporation and all the acts of the
town board.
The first water works in Summitville were put in by the Summit-
ville Mining Company, which in reality was a natural gas company.
Gas pressure was used to pump water from a deep well bored for gas,
and after the pressure became too low to force the water through the
pipes the water works were abandoned. The present electric light and
water company was organized in 1903 by William Warner & Sons and
R. C. Howard. About a year later the plants were sold to .the town on
a rental basis and were operated by the municipality until in 1911,
when, the town deciding that it was unable to make the payments, they
were turned back to the original company, which is now furnishing an
ample water supply from deep wells, but the electric lighting plant is
idle, the company purchasing its current from the Union Traction Com-
pany.
Summitville has a bank, a flour mill, a handsome public school build-
ing, five churches, several good mercantile establishments, about two
and a half miles of paved streets, concrete sidewalks over the greater
part of the town, first class transportation facilities through the Big
Four Railroad and one of the Union Traction Company's lines, a good
hotel, a weekly newspaper, and in 1910 reported a population of 1,387.
North Summitville, formerly known as "Wrinkle," is the site of a large
drain tile works, a general store, etc. It is located about three quarters
of a mile north of the main town.
Frankton
Situated on the Pan Handle Railroad about ten miles northwest
of Anderson, and on the boundary line between Lafayette and Pipe
Creek townships, is the town of Frankton. It was laid out on March 3,
1853, by Alfred Makepeace and Francis Sigler. The first building had
been erected there some five years before by John Hardy and was occu-
pied as soon as completed by Alfred Makepeace with a stock of goods,
brought in wagons from Cincinnati. As early as 1837 or 1838 a post-
128 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
oflSee had been established at the house of William Taylor, about a mile
east of Franktoa, with Mr. Taylor as the postmaster. In 1855 it was
removed to the village and the name of the office changed to Frank-
ton.
The town was incorporated in 1871 with Dr. Stanley W. Edwins,
William Cochran and Dr. R. Harvey as the first board of trustees. Three
years before the incorporation the town had erected a two-story brick
schoolhouse at a cost of about $2,500. At the present time Frankton
has a commissioned high school and employs seven teachers in the pub-
lic schools. The first bank was started in 1876 by Cornelius Quick
& Company.
Prior to 1887 the principal industries of Frankton were a sawmill
and flour mill. With the discovery of natural gas in 1887 the town
immediately began to look up. A number of new industrial concerns
located there, among them being two brick manufacturing companies,
two window glass companies, one of which erected two factories, three
fence companies, a rolling mill and a novelty works. In a short time
after the introduction of gas the population was estimated at 2,000.
Three additions were made to the town by Joseph M. Watkins, and
other additions were made by different persons until the town spread
over a considerable territory. Several of the factories closed when the
natural gas failed and there was a decline in population. Notwithstand-
ing these losses, Frankton is still one of the active towns of the county.
It has a number of well stocked mercantile houses, a bank, several fac-
tories, a fine public school building, neat church edifices representing
the houses of worship of different denominations, lodges of some of
the principal fraternal societies, and in 1910 reported a populatipn of
936. Being located in the midst of a rich agricultural district, it is an
important shipping point.
Lapel
On the line of the Central Indiana Railroad, eight miles west of
Anderson, lies the incorporated town of Lapel, the principal town of
Stony Creek township. Probably the first settler here was Benoni Freel,
who had previously settled near the present town of Perkinsville, Jack-
son township, but in 1828 erected a cabin upon the site of Lapel. This
town is the outgrowth of the building of the Anderson, Lebanon &
St. Louis (now the Central Indiana) Railroad. Work was commenced
on this road in 1873 and the first rail was laid late in the year 1875. On
April 27, 1876, Samuel E. Busby and David Conrad laid out the town
of Lapel. For several years the village consisted of a few scattering
houses, a flour mill and a general store. Then a second flour mill was
erected and after the discovery of natural gas the growth was more
rapid. In a short time Lapel boasted — besides the two large flour mills
— a planing mill, a flint bottle factory, a pump and gas regulator fac-
tory, tile mills and some minor industries.
In January, 1893, Lapel was incorporated with E. R. Rambo, 0.
C. Shetterly and James Armstrong as trustees, and J. C. McCarty as
clerk. After the incorporation considerable attention was given to the
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 129
work of improving the streets and in other ways beautifying the town,
with the result that Lapel has the reputation of being one of the pret-
tiest places in Madison county. It has a fine public school building, a
commissioned high school and employs eight teachers, there are several
neat churches edifices, lodges of various orders, a number of handsome
residences, some good stores, a bank and a few factories, among which
are a flint bottle works and a large canning factory. Lapel is sur-
rounded by a fertile country and is the principal shipping point on the
Central Indiana Railroad between Anderson and Noblesville.
An incident that occurred at Lapel in the summer of 1886 attracted
considerable attention. That was the incendiary fire that destroyed
Woodward Brothers' large flour mill early on the morning of August
16th. Mrs. William Woodward discovered the fire and aroused her
husband, who reached the window in time to see the incendiary watch-
ing, apparently to see if his work was well done. The town had no fire
department and the mill, together with its contents — about 5,000 bush-
els of wheat and a large quantity of flour — was completely destroyed,
the loss being given as $15,000. Detectives were employed by the
owners to discover and convict the guilty parties. Suspicion pointed
to John Cottrell, who was soon afterward arrested at Pendleton and
taken to jail. In a preliminary hearing before a justice of the peace
he was bound over to the Madison circuit court. Thomas and George
Ford, the son and nephew of James Ford, the rival miller, were also
arrested, given a preliminary hearing and bound over to the circuit
court.
Upon promise of immunity Cottrell turned state's evidence, testify-
ing that a conspiracy was formed between him and the Fords by which
he was to fire the mill. A change of venue was taken to the Hamilton
county circuit court, where George Ford was found guilty at the Decem-
ber term in 1886 and sentenced to serve nine years in the penitentiary
and pay a fine of $1,000. At the March term following Thomas Ford
was found guilty as an accessory and sentenced to four years in the
penitentiary. Cottrell was never punished for his part in the work.
James Ford, the owner of the rival mill, an old and respected citizen,
spent the greater part of Ihe fortune he had accumulated in the defense
of his son and nephew. No accusation was brought against him as hav-
ing guilty knowledge of the affair and he had the sympathy of many
citizens who had known him for years as an honorable and upright
man.
Chesterfield
This tovra dates back to about the year 1827, though it was not for-
mally laid out until early in the year 1830 by Allen Makepeace. It was
first called West Union and when the township of Union was organ-
ized in May, 1830, the first election was ordered to be held at the house
of Thomas Vananda, who kept a grocery in the town of West Union.
The county commissioners, at the September term in 1834, changed the
name to Chesterfield upon a petition signed by a majority of the cit-
izens and presented by Allen Makepeace.
In its early days Chesterfield was one of the prosperous towns of
130 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the county and so far as trade was concerned bid fair to become a
formidable rival to Anderson. When the Indianapolis & Bellefon-
taine Railroad was completed through Madison county in 1852, Ches-
terfield experienced several years of unusual business activity. Large
shipments of agricultural products were made from the town and the
merchants extended their trade over a large district of the surround-
ing country. Population increased to such an extent that in the late
summer of the year 1857 a petition was circulated and signed by a
large majority of the citizens, asking for the incorporation of the town.
At the September term the county commissioners ordered an election
for October 9, 1857 (the second Friday), at the sehoolhouse, when
the voters might have an opportunity to express themselves for or
against the incorporation. For some reason that election was not held,
and in December the board ordered a second election, to be held on
January 2, 1858. This time the effort was productive of better results.
Thirty-two votes were cast in favor of the incorporation and none
against it. Proper returns of the election were filed with the commis-
sioners, who, on March 11, 1858, issued the order for the incorpora-
tion of Chesterfield.
For some time after the town was incorporated it continued to pros-
per and improve. Harden, who wrote in 1874, said at that time — "It
has, however, lost its prestige, and many of its houses are untenanta-
ble." The principal reasons why Chesterfield thus declined were no
doubt that other towns offered better inducements and some of the most
active and successful business men of Chesterfield removed to other
points. In 1910 the population of Chesterfield was 285, and the prop-
erty in 1912 was assessed for tax purposes at $107,560.
Since Harden alluded to Chesterfield in 1874 as having "lost its
prestige," it is but justice to the town to say that in recent years it
has again become a live, active place. The building of the interurban
railway had the effect of stimulating industry and activity in mercan-
tile pursuits. It is now one of the best villages in the county for coun-
try trade. The Indiana Spiritualist Association has a large tract of
land adjoining the town, which makes for it a beautiful park and a
meeting place for the annual gathering of those connected with the
Spiritualistic faith. Allen Makepeace, who died at Chesterfield, was
the wealthiest man in the county at the time of his death.
Makkleville
This town is located in Adams township, two miles from the Henry
county line and the same distance north of Hancock county. It is on
the Michigan division of the Big Four Railroad, ten miles southeast of
Anderson, and is the principal town in that section of the county. The
Pendleton & Newcastle pike runs east and west through the town.
Markleville was laid out by John Markle, from whom it derives its
name, in 1852. Soon after the town was laid out a postoflBce was estab-
lished there with John Markle as postmaster.
Among the early merchants were Newton Busby, E. B. Garrison,
Ralph Williams, David Johnson, J. W. Shimer and H. H. Markle.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 131
Those of a later date were the firms of Sebrell & Blake and Hardy &
Lewis. The latter firm about 1873 erected the finest business room in
the town up to that time. Dr. Daniel Cook was probably the first
resident physician. Other physicians in the early history of the town
were William Hendricks, Jacob and William P. Harter and William
Swain.
When the railroad was completed through the town in 1890, Mar-
kleville became a station of considerable importance for the south-
eastern part of the county. By 1910 the population had increased to
225 and some of the citizens began to advocate the incorporation of the
town. Two years passed before anything definite was done, but on
August 10, 1912, a petition to incorporate the town of Markleville,
signed by more than one-third of the resident qualified voters, was pre-
sented to the board of county commissioners. An election was ordered
for Tuesday, August 27, 1912, the polls to be open from 9 o'clock A.
M. to 4 o'clock P.M. On the 31st I. N. Addison, B. F. Ham and B.
L. Petro, inspectors of election, filed a certificate of the result with the
commissioners, showing that sixty-seven votes had been cast, fifty-two
of which were in favor of the incorporation and fifteen opposed.
Upon this showing, and it further appearing that all the require-
ments of the law had been complied with by the petitioners, the board
"ordered and ordained that said town is legally and lawfully incor-
porated under and by the name of Markleville."
Markleville has the usual mercantile concerns and business inter-
ests found in towns of its size, churches of different faiths, a public
school, a bank, lodges of some of the fraternal societies, and is a ship-
ping point for a rich agricultural district.
Ingalls
This town, located near the southern boundary of the county in
Green township, was laid out on June 5, 1893, by the Ingalls Land Com-
pany, of which J. H. Clark was president, and was named in honor of
M. E. Ingalls, president of the Big Four Railroad Company. At that
time natural gas was plentiful in Madison county and the liberal
inducements offered by the founders of Ingalls led to the establish-
ment there of a number of manufacturing concerns, one of which was
known as the Zinc Works, which employed a large number of persons.
A glass factory was established in 1895 and soon after the town was
platted the railroad company erected a comfortable passenger station.
At the March term in 1896 the county commissioners received a peti-
tion asking that Ingalls be incorporated. The petition was granted and
an election ordered for April 7, 1896, for the purpose of giving the voters
the privilege of recording themselves as in favor of or opposed to the
incorporation of the town. John Manifold, Silas Baker and Henry
Swain were the inspectors at this election. They reported sixty-five
votes cast, only four of which were against the proposition to incor-
porate, and on May 1, 1896, the following town officers were elected:
J. C. Manifold, George Laws and William Potter, town council; J.
H. Lail, clerk; J. M. Manifold, treasurer; Chance Stewart, marshal.
132 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Ingalls has never reached the magnitude anticipated by its projec-
tors, though if the natural gas supply had continued the town might
have been larger and more active than it is. In 1910 the population
was 322. It is a trading point for the southeastern part of the county,
but the proximity of Fortville, Hancock county, which is only a little
over two miles distant, robs Ingalls of some of its prosperity.
Orestes
Two miles west of Alexandria on the Lake Erie & Western Railroad
is the incorporated town of Orestes. It was established as a station soon
after the railroad was completed in 1876 and remained a small village
until after the discovery of natural gas. Then a large glass factory
and a tile works were located there and the population increased until
two school buildings were required to accommodate the children of
school age. It was about this time that the town was incorporated, the
order of the commissioners to that effect being made late in the year
1894. With the decline of natural gas the town lost much of its pres-
tige and much of the business formerly transacted there was trans-
ferred to Alexandria. Orestes still maintains a good public school, some
general stores, a money order postoffice, etc., and in 1910 reported a pop-
ulation of 420.
Smaller Villages
Besides the ten incorporated cities and towns above mentioned in
this chapter, there are a number of smaller towns and villages in the
countj' . These are Alliance, Emporia and Ovid, in Adams township ;
Leisure, in Duck Creek township ; Huntsville, in Fall Creek township ;
Halford and Perkinsville, in Jackson township ; Florida and Linwood,
in Lafayette township, and Fishersburg, in Stony Creek township.
Alliance is a station on the Big Four Railroad about five miles south-
east of Anderson. A general store is located here and some shipping
is done from Alliance, though it was considered too small by the cen-
sus authorities in 1910 to give it a separate report as to population, its
inhabitants being included with Adams township.
Emporia, a small station on the Big Four Railroad, is two miles
southeast of Alliance. It was laid out soon after the southern exten-
sion of the railroad was completed in 1891. One of the first industries
to be established there was the sawmill of William and Edward True-
blood. A postoffice was established here with William Trueblood as
postmaster, but upon the introduction of the rural free delivery system
the office was discontinued and the people now get their mail through
the office at MarkleviUe, two miles southeast. William Mauzy opened
the first general store after the town was laid out. -The population in
1910 was fifty.
Ovid, formerly called New Columbus, was laid out by Abraham
Adams in 1834. It is pleasantly situated upon the high grounds just
south of Fall Creek, seven miles south of Anderson and about half a
mile west of the Big Four Railroad. When the postoffice was estab-
lished in 1837 it was named Ovid, in order to avoid confusion with an
HISTORY OF ^LA.DISON COUNTY I33
office at Columbus, Bartholomew county. William Miller was the first
postmaster; Hiram Bureh was the first merchant, and Dr. C. Horn was
the first physician. Armstrong & Fort started a tannery in 1837, but
it was not a financial success and was abandoned after a short time.
Early in 1840 a petition was presented to the county commissioners
praying for the incorporation of the town, whereupon the board took
the following action: "On a petition of a majority of the citizens of
New Columbus, Madison county, Indiana, it is ordered that the citizens
of said town hold aii election in said town on the first Monday in April
next, for the purpose of electing the proper of&cers to govern the said
town as an incorporated town. And upon the citizens complying with
this order the said town thereafter to be considered as incorporated."
The records do not show what became of the town government, but
it IS certain that for many years New Columbus has not appeared upon
the tax duplicates of the county as an incorporated town. The postoffice
has been discontinued and the people are supplied by rural carrier.
The population was 110 in 1910. Ovid has a public school; some of the
fraternal orders are represented by lodges, and the village is a trad-
ing point and rallying center for a rich and populous agricultural
district.
Some of the most prominent men in Madison county, in former
years, lived and thrived in Ovid. Among them may be mentioned Dr.
Joel Pratt, Dr. Bear and Dr. Stanley W. Edwins, all prominent in
their profession. Allen Makepeace and Abner Cory were among the
early merchants. The defeating of a subsidy of $6,000 asked for the
southern extension of the Big Four Railroad through Adams township,
was the death knell of Ovid. It was a mistake often since regretted,
but it can never be corrected. The influence of Ovid was against the
subsidy and for this reason the railroad avoided the town, causing other
villages to be built up along the line.
Leisure is a small hamlet in the northwestern corner of Duck Creek
township, five miles due north of Elwood. It has a church, a public
school, a general store and a few dwellings. A postoffice was once
maintained at Leisure, but it has been discontinued, the people now
receiving mail by rural carrier from Elwood. In 1910 the village re-
ported a population of one hundred.
Huntsville, situated about one mile northeast of Pendleton, is one
of the old towns of the county, having been laid out on May 24, 1830,
by Enos Adamson and Eleazer Hunt, who were among the early set-
tlers in that locality. Other pioneers were Thomas and J. T. Swain,
Abel Johnson, B. F. Gregory, John Montgomer.y, Dr. ilcCain, William
Wright and John Jones. For several years Huntsville was a rival with
Pendleton for commercial supremacy, but with the completion of the
railroad through the latter town in the early '50s, Huntsville began
to decline. In the early days the elections in Fall Creek township were
held in Huntsville, but in 1838 the voting place w£is removed to Pendle-
ton by the county commissioners. In 1890, when the township was
divided into four precincts under the Australian ballot law, Hunts-
ville again became a voting place.
Among the early industries were a tannery, started by A. S. Under-
134 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
wood in 1830; Enos Adamson's gristmill, which began operations the
same year; James Hackney's hat shop, John Conrad's tailor shop, Rob-
ert Childers' distillery and Joseph Hair's shoe shop, all opened in 1831.
Eleazer Hunt also opened a tannery in that year and conducted it for
six years when he sold out to Isaac Wright. Adamson's mill continued
in operation until 1848, when it was destroyed by tire. During the lat-
ter part of its existence a woolen mill and oil mill were conducted in
connection with it. Not long after the burning of this mill Wilson, Wynn
& Kocuin built a new one. Cook & Aimen afterward became the owners
of this mill, as well as the sawmill a short distance east of it, and in
1872 Mr. Aimen became the sole owner. This mill, like its predecessor,
was destroyed by fire and has never been rebuilt.
Benjamin Snodgrass was the first merchant in Huntsville. Simeon
Lewis, John Tillson, Nathan Wilson, William Johnson, Dr. McCain,
Benjamin Lukens and some others were also engaged in merchandising
at Huntsville during the early days. A postofHce was established there
at an early day, with David P. Hazleton as postmaster. Horace Lewis
was the last postmaster, the office being discontinued while he held the
position.
Halford, a small hamlet of Jackson township, is located on the south
bank of the White river, about four miles west of Anderson. It was
laid out in 1836 by Henry Devlin, who was the agent of Conner &
Stephenson, of Noblesville, who were active in locating towns and open-
ing stores along the line of the Indiana Central canal. When it was
first laid out the name of Hamilton was conferred upon it, but the
postoffice established there some years later was called Zinnsburg. Sub-
sequently the name was changed to Halford, after Elijah Halford, an
Indianapolis journalist. William King was the first merchant, and Dr.
William Godell the first physician. John Ashby opened a tavern here
in 1842 and for some years after that the town did a considerable
volume of business. The postoffice has been abandoned and the inhabit-
ants are supplied by rural carrier from Anderson.
Perkinsville, situated on the north bank of the White river in the
western part of Jackson township and extending to the Hamilton
county line, was laid out by Thomas L. and James Beckwith and Bick-
nell Cole on August 1, 1837. It was the intention of the founders to
name the town in honor of William Parkins, who was one of the prom-
inent pioneers, but the plat was recorded as "Perkinsville" through
mistake. Thomas L. Beckwith opened a store here in 1835, and in. 1838
was appointed the first postmaster, a position he held until 1877. The
postoffice has since been discontinued. A large flour mill was one of the
industries of Perkinsville for many years, but it was destroyed by fire
in August, 1884, and has never been rebuilt. The town has a good
public school building, the usual quota of general stores, churches, etc.,
for villages of its size, a hotel, and in 1910 reported a population of
318, according to the United States census for that year.
Florida is a station en the Pan Handle Railroad in Lafayette town-
ship, six miles northwest of Anderson. It was laid out in 1856 on the
farm of Thomas G. Clark, and was at first known as Clark's Station.
Henry Hendriek was the first merchant and George Craighead was the
HISTORY OF IVLADISON COUNTY 135
first postmaster. Dr. Thomas B. Forkner was the first physician. A
large tile mill was one of the early business concerns, but with the drain-
age of the lands in the vicinity the demand for tile decreased and the
plant was converted into a brick factory. Florida is located in a fer-
tile farming district and is a shipping point of some importance. Dur-
ing the era of natural gas Van Metre's addition was made to the original
plat, but the town did not grow as expected and in 1910 the popula-
tion was but 125. The postoffice has been discontinued and the village
now receives mail by rural route from Anderson. Public school No. 10,
of the township schools, is located at. Florida. The village also has a
Methodist church, a general store, etc.
Linwood, originally called Funk's Station, is located on the Michigan
division of the Big Four Railroad, about six miles north of Anderson.
The name of Linwood was given the place when the postofiice was estab-
lished there some years ago, with Samuel A. Towell as the first post-
master. Given & Bruce at one time conducted a general store and
Charles Hartman a drug store. John C. May and a Mr. Thomas have
made additions to the original plat. Linwood has a public school, a
sawmill and lumber yard, a general store and a few minor business con-
cerns. A line of the Union Traction system passed a short distance
east of the main portion of the village and a station has been established
opposite the town.
Fishersburg was laid out in May, 1837, by Rev. Fletcher Tevis. It
is located on the right bank of Stony creek at the western boundary of
the county. The first house in the village was built by a man named
Rogers, who started the first blacksmith shop in that part of the county.
William and Benjamin Sylvester were the first merchants, opening
their store in 1844. A postoffice was established in 1853, with Charles
Fisher, who had bought out the Sylvesters, as the first postmaster.
The postoffice has been discontinued, the citizens now being supplied by
rural route from Lapel. Prior to the building of the Central Indiana
Railroad in 1876, the village of Fishersburg was the principal trading
point for the western part of Stony Creek township and a large section
of Hamilton county. When the railroad was completed the town of
Lapel, three-fourths of a mile southeast, sprang up, and being on the
railroad drew a large part of the trade. The United States census of
1910 gives the population of Fishersburg as two hundred. A good brick
schoolhouse was erected here in 1874, and Methodist and Baptist churches
were organized at an early date.
Over forty-five thousand of the citizens of Madison county reside in
the cities, towns and villages. The postoffices of the county, according
to the United States Postal Guide for July, 1913, were : Alexandria,
Anderson, Chesterfield, Elwood, Frankton, Ingalls, Lapel, Linwood,
Markleville, Orestes, Pendleton and Summitville. All these are money
order offices, those at Alexandria, Anderson, Elwood, Frankton, Ingalls,
Pendleton and Summitville being authorized to issue international money
orders. Forty-four rural routes supply daily mail to all parts of the
county.
CHAPTER IX
FINANCE AND INDUSTRY
Public Finances — Outstanding Debt — Gravel Road Bonds — Banks
AND Trust Companies — Bold Bank Robbery — Anderson Loan
Association — Early Manufacturing Establishments — Natural
Gas Era — New Factories Located — Manufacturing Statistics of
Cities and Towns — "M.vde in Anderson" Exhibit — Agricultural
Conditions and Statistics — The Farmer Still King.
The people of Madison county are to be congratulated upon the fact
that the public revenues have always been managed in such a manner that
at no time has the indebtedness been burdensome to the taxpayers. Bonds
have been issued from time to time for specific purposes, but with each
issue provisions have been made for meeting the obligations when they
fell due. So carefully and conservatively has this policy been followed
that at the beginning of the year 1905 the county was entirely fi-ee from
debt. The great flood of that year swept away a number of bridges, and
to meet the emergency the commissioners decided to borrow $45,000 upon
the county's notes, without issuing bonds. These notes were made pay-
able one year after date, the county reserving the right to make paj'ment
sooner, if the revenues were in shape to do so. Plenty of men were found
to loan money under these conditions, so that a regular bond issue was not
necessary.
Shortly after the passage of the local option law by the state legis-
lature, Madison county "went dry" and the saloon keepers asked a
refund of the money they had paid for liquor licenses. That money
had been turned into the public school fund, from which it could not
be withdrawn and the county authorities borrowed, on notes, the sum
of $3,950 to refund the license fees.
In 1910 this debt of $3,950 was paid, but in that year the county
borrowed $20,000 for current expenses, giving notes therefor. These
notes were all paid in 1911, but the county in that year borrowed $10,000
to meet current expenses. The total outstanding debt at tlie beginning
of the year 1912 was therefore $55,000, but during that year and the
first half of 1913 notes to the amount of $17,000 were paid and canceled,
leaving an outstanding indebtedness on September 1, 1913, of $38,000.
Few counties in the state can show as clean a financial record.
In the purchase of the toll roads some years ago, and in the con-
struction of new gravel roads, bonds aggregating about $2,000,000 have
been issued. These bonds are payable by the townships. The amount
of gravel road bonds outstanding on September 1, 1913, was as follows :
136
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 137
Adams township $ 29,657.81
Anderson township 100,867.56
Boone township 60,288.45
Duck Creek township 32,092.00
Fall Creek township 53,987.20
Green township 27,196.00
Jackson township 39,220.83
Lafayette township 48,817.78
Monroe township 139,808.16
Pipe Creek towmship 206,269.75
Richland township 35,330.32
Stony Creek to\raship 39,597.18
Union township 11,289.99
Van Buren township 26,620.56
Total $851,043.59
While these figures may seem large, when the reader stops to con-
sider that Madison county has approximately five hundred miles of im-
proved highway it will be seen that every dollar of gravel road bonds
issued is a permanent investment, the profits of which can hardly be
estimated.
Banking Institutions
The Citizens' Bank, of Anderson, which was founded in 1855 by
Neal C. MeCullough and Byron K. Elliott, is the oldest bank in Mad-,
ison county. Judge Elliott retired in 1863 and in 1879 the bank was
reorganized, W. T. Durbin and C. K. MeCullough being then admitted
as partners. In 1881 D. F. Mustard became a member of the banking
firm, but withdrew in 1884. In the meantime the Madison County Bank
had been organized by J. E. Corwin, L. J. Burr, N. R. Elliott, J. H. Ter-
hune, John W. Pence and some other local capitalists, and subsequently
was converted into a state bank. About the time Mr. Mustard left the
Citizens' Bank he formed a partnership with A. J. Brunt and others
and purchased the ^ladison County Bank, which was consolidated with
the Citizens' in 1886.
A statement issued by this bank on April 9, 1913, shows the fol-
lowing officers : D. F. Mustard, president ; George E. Nichol, vice-pres-
ident; N. M. MeCullough, cashier; F. E. ]\Iustard, assistant cashiei:;
W. T. Durbin, A. W. Brady, B. H. Gedge, J. W. Lovett, the president,
vice-president and cashier, directors. The capital stock (paid in) is
$125,000; surplus $40,000; total resources, $720,870, and deposits,
$493,000.
The First. National Bank, of Anderson, was organized in 1865. Prior
to that time J. G. Stilwell and his son, Thomas N. Stilwell, had been
engaged in doing a banking business upon a small scale and they were
the principal factors in securing the organization of the First National
in 1865, with a capital stock of $50,000. The bank started off with bril-
liant prospects and for about eight years carried on a successful busi-
ness. It was a correspondent of the banking house of Jay Cooke &
138 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Company, of New York, and when the failure of that concern occurred
in the early fall of 1873 it precipitated a wide-spread panic. Many of
the depositors in the First National, knowing- the relationship between
that bank and Jay Cooke & Company, hastened to withdraw their money.
These withdrawals so crippled the bank that on November 15, 1873,
it was compelled to close its doors. At that time Colonel Thomas N.
Stilwell was president and A. B. Kline, cashier.
Thomas McCullough, of Oxford, Ohio, was made receiver and issued
a statement showing the resources of the bank to be $164,563 and the
liabilities, $137,717. Upon this showing it was thought the bank would
pay all obligations in full, but among the assets were Venezuelan bonds
to the amount of $100,000, of which Colonel Stilwell had acquired a large
part while he was minister to that country, and these bonds turned out
to be worthless, so that the depositors received only about forty cents
on the dollar. The bonds were taken possession of by the comptroller
of the currency at Washington and there are some who still believe that
some time they will be paid.
Mr. McCullough soon resigned as receiver and Walter S. Johnson,
of Washington, D. C, succeeded him, remaining until the business of
the bank was settled. Among the heavy depositors was Weems Heagy,
treasurer of Madison county, whose deposit at the time of the failure
amounted to $21,000. This is the only bank failure that has ever
occurred in the county.
The Exchange Bank, of Anderson, was organized in 1866 by William
Crim & Company, with Joseph Fulton as cashier. It was opened in
what was known as the Adams block, the second door from Main street,
at the northeast corner of the public square, where it continued in busi-
ness until 1873, when it was moved to the northwest corner of the
square, in the building now known as the Harter Hotel. In 1881 it was
reorganized, T. J. McMahan, H. J. Daniels and John L. Forkner be-
coming interested. Three years later J. W. Sansberry purchased the
interest of Mr. Daniels. On July 1, 1886, the bank was removed to the
Doxey Hotel corner, at Ninth and Main streets, and in 1892 it was
reorganized as the National Exchange Bank of Anderson. In October,
1909, it removed to its present location on the east side of Meridian
street, between Ninth and Tenth streets. J. W. Sansberry is the pres-
ent president, Isaac E. May, vice-president, and George S. Parker,
cashier. The capital stock of the bank is $100,000; surplus and undi-
vided profits, $35,000, and deposits, $564,000.
On August 10, 1878, while conducted by William Crim & Company,
this bank was robbed in a peci;liarly daring manner. A few days before
that time a well dressed man registered at the Doxey Hotel as "H. F.
Tilden, IMound City, Iowa," and soon became acquainted with Joseph
R. Cain, who was then cashier of the bank. Just at noon on the 10th,
while Mr. Cain was in the bank alone, Tilden entered and requested
silver for a $20 bill. Mr. Cain counted out the money and just at
that moment Tilden, who had a cloth around one of his fingers as
though he had suffered some injury, requested the cashier to tie up
his finger, saying he could not tie it himself with but one hand.
While Mr. Cain was thus engaged, two of Tilden 's confederates, wear-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 139
ing soft-soled shoes, slipped around to the safe and made away with a
considerable amount of money, which has been estimated all the way
from $5,000 to $12,000. Another confederate stood on the outside to
detain any person about to enter, and did detain Richard Thornburg
with some insignificant inquiry until Tilden and the two sneak thieves
made their "get away."
The absence of the money was discovered a few minutes later when
Norval Crim went to the safe to get funds with which to cash a large
check, and ofificers were soon hot on the trail. Tilden and his associates
made at once for the Pan Handle station to the north-bound train due
at 1 : 20 p. m. and the officers succeeded in boarding the same train.
Tilden; J. C. Curtis, of Cleveland; John Ryan, of Fort Wayne; J. Ash
and J. T. Bradley, of Pittsfleld, were arrested before the train reached
Elwood and were brought back for trial. At the preliminary hearing
Ash and Curtis were released but the other three men were held on bail.
Their friends came forward and put up a cash bond, which was for-
feited and the criminals disappeared. About $2,000 of the stolen money
was found hidden in a stave yard at Elwood, where Ryan tried to make
his escape after being arrested, and many believe that some kind of
arrangement was made by which the bank recovered the greater portion
of it, though the facts have never beeii made public. Mr. Cain was
never censured, as it was always considered that he acted as any one
else would have done under similar circumstances.
In February, 1890, the Anderson Banking Company was organized
with a, capital stock of $60,000, which was held by the following per-
sons : Dr. Braxton Baker, W. H. Quick, Jesse L. Vermillion, George F.
Quick, Harrison Canaday, U. C. Vermillion, S. E. Young, A. J. Brunt
and H. J. Daniels. Braxton Baker was the iirst president and Jesse
L. Vermillion the first cashier. The officers in 1913 were: Jesse L.
Vermillion, president; W. H. H. Quick, vice-president; Otto Buettner,
cashier; Earle E. Young, assistant cashier. The board of directors con-
sists of the president, vice-president, cashier, A. J. Brunt, E. F. Ver-
million, George F. Quick, Harrison Canaday and Braxton Baker. The
bank is located at the southwest corner of Ninth and Meridian streets.
Its capital .stock is now $126,500; surplus, $73,500, and deposits, $650,-
000. It is regarded as one of the strongest banks in this section of the
state.
The Anderson Trust Company, which conducts a general trust com-
pany and banking business at the southeast corner of Tenth and Merid-
ian streets, was established in February, 1899, with a capital stock of
$50,000. Since it commenced business the company has increased its
capital stock to $100,000, accumulated a fund of over $50,000 in sur-
plus and undivided profits, and in June, 1913, carried deposits of
nearly $362,000. The present officers of the company are: Sanford M.
Keltner, president ; Thomas B. Orr, vice-president ; Prank H. Schlater,
secretary; B. B. McCandliss, assistant secretarj-. Besides the three
principal officers, the board of directors includes J. L. Vermillion, A. J.
Brunt, Henry C. Callaway and James M. Donnelly. "William H. Her-
itage is in charge of the real estate and insurance department.
Just across Meridian street from the Anderson Trust Company is
140 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the People's State National Bank. This institution was organized iu
1905 by Joseph I. Schuhmacher as the People's State Bank and it opened
its doors for business on the first day of November with a paid in cap-
ital of $100,000. On November 26, 1912, it was reorganized as a national
bank, with the name indicated above. The officers of the bank are : J. I.
Schuhmacher, president ; Stephan ]\Iarkt, vice-president ; C. A. Thayer,
cashier. Some idea of the successful career of this bank may be gained
from the fact that its surplus and undivided profits are over $30,000
and its total resources nearly $590,000. The deposits are over $300,000.
There is one financial concern in Anderson that stands almost with-
out a parallel in the financial history of the state. That is the Anderson
Loan Association, which has an authorized capital of $10,000,000. It
was organized late in the year 1888, incorporated under the state laws,
.3
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Anhkhshx Li IAN Association Building
and began business on January 1, 1889. For some time the association
had no regular meeting place, using such locations as could be had
without payment of rent. The first secretary received a salary of
$15 per month. After a time a regular meeting place was found
in the commissioners ' court room, for which the association paid a rental
of $12.50 per month. In 1894 the commissioners needed the room and
the association was forced to look for a new home. The officials then
rented a room in the basement of the courthouse for $6.00 per month.
In December, 1894, the lot where the Masonic Temple now stands, on
Meridian street, was bought for $6,400 and the association joined with
the Masonic bodies of Anderson in the erection of a building, the north
Slide of which belonged to the loan association. This building was first
occupied on December 27, 1895.
In a few years it became apparent that more room would soon be
needed for the transaction of the rapidly increasing business and the
officers began to look for a more suitable location. In June, 1908, the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 141
association purchased the lot at the southeast corner of Tenth and
Jackson streets and began the erection of a building 72 by 144 feet,
tliree stories high. Two liusiness rooms front on Tenth street, the one
in the corner (48 by 70 feet) being occupied by the association, and
the east room by tlie Farmers' Trust Company. The second and third
floors are divided into twenty-one apartments, modern in every respect.
The cost of this buikling and the lot upon which it stands was $90,000.
The original founders were Francis A. "Walker, Charles H. Evving
and Thomas li. Orr, the last named being the present attorney for the
association. In the beginning the capital autliorized was $1,000,000,
v.hich has been increased from time "to time until it is now $10,000,000,
of which $8,500,000 has been issued. The association has nearly 10,000
members, the greatest number of any institution of its kind in the State
of Indiana. Members have removed to other states and even to foreign
countries, but they still' retain their holdings. The total assets of the
institution aggregate over $2,500,000, with a surplus of over $120,000,
and it has nearly $2,000,000 loaned on real estate security, most of it in
Madison county.
Anderson's youngest banking house is the Farmers' Trust Com-
pany, which began business on January 6, 1912, with J. J. Netterville
as president ; Edward H. Mathews, vice-president ; George E. Nichol,
secretary and trea.surer; A. T. Dye, assistant secretary and treasurer.
The capital stock of this company is $100,000 and during the first six-
teen months of its existence it accumulated a fund of $5,391 in undi-
vided profits. Its deposits are over $150,000. It is located at No. 29
West Tenth street.
In Elwood, the second city of the county, there are four banks. The
oldest of these is the Citizens' State Bank, which was organized in
1881 by B. T. and H. C. Callaway, with a capital of $50,000. In 1908
it was incorporated under the laws of Indiana. Originally it was
known as the Citizens' Exchange Bank, but at the time of the incorpo-
ration took its present name. The officers in 1913 were : H. C. Callaway,
president; S. C. Spoor, vice-president; Charles Osborn, cashier. H. C.
Callaway, S. C. Spoor, L. M. Gross, J. W. Callaway and Charles Osborn
constitute the board of directors.
The First National Bank of Elwood was opened for business in
1882 as the Farmers' Bank. In 1892 it was reorganized under its
present name and is No. 4,675 under the national banking laws. It has
a capital stock of $50,000 ; a circulation of $50,000 ; a surplus of over
$20,000, and deposits of about $300,000. In 1913 the officers of the
bank were: E. C. Dehority, president; Charles Harvey, vice-president;
C. D. Babbitt, cashier. In 1892 the building occupied by this bank was
destroyed by fire and a new home for it was erected at the northwest
comer of Main and Anderson streets, but this building was exchanged
for the bank's present quarters a few years later.
In February, 1903, the Elwood State Bank was established with a
capital of $75,000, all paid up. In a short time this bank came, to be
generally recognized as one of the strong financial institutions of Mad-
ison county. The present officers are : O. B. Prazier, president ; J. D.
Armfield, vice-president; Charles C. Dehority, cashier. These three
142 HISTORY OF IVIADISON COUNTY
officers, with N. J. Leisure and Wayne Leeson, compose the hoard of
directors.
The Elwood Trust Company commenced its career on March 31,
1907, with a capital of $25,000. It now has a surplus of about $9,000
and deposits of over $330,000. P. M. Harbit is the president of the
company ; J. T.' Jessup, vice-president ; J. D. Higbee, secretary and
treasurer. The board of directors is composed of P. M. Harbit, W. E.
Harting, S. B. Harting, R. A. McClure, P. H. Zahn, Harry Sells and
J. T. Jessup. This company is incorporated under the laws of Indiana
and is authorized to act as trustee, administrator, executor and receiver,
as well as to transact a general banking business. The combined de-
posits of the four Elwood banks amount to over $1,250,000.
The first bank in Alexandria was opened by Dr. Braxton Baker in
McMahan & Company's drug store, years before it was thought the
village would become one of the principal cities of the county. In 1888
it was formally organized as the Alexandria Bank by Dr. Baker and
some local capitalists, and in 1892 it was reorganized under the national
banking laws as the Alexandria National Bank, which afterward liqui-
dated and the same persons resumed business as the Alexandria Bank.
A statement issued by this bank at the close of its business on August
9, 1913, shows a capital stock paid in of $11,500; a surplus of $9,000,
and deposits of over $376,000. At that time the officers of the bank
were as follows : S. G. Phillips, president ; R. H. Hannah, vice-president ;
Isaac S. Kelly, cashier; J. S. Wales, assistant cashier. This bank is a
private institution that has acquired a reputation for the reliable and
conservative management of the funds intrusted to its care during its
successful career of a quarter of a centurj', and today it enjoys the
confidence of the entire community.
The Commercial Bank and Trust Company, of Alexandria, was first
organized in 1893 by S. V. Pree and Dr. B. T. Callaway as the Com-
mercial Bank. In 1908 it was incorporated as the Commercial State
Bank, and in 1912 was reorganized as the Commercial Bank and Trust
Company. The capital of this institution is $25,000 ; its surplus, about
$3,500, and its deposits, nearly $175,000. Arthur E. Harlan is pres-
ident; Harry M. Adams, vice-president; Vernon H. Day, secretary;
Hugh A. Harlan, assistant secretary. The board of directors is com-
posed of the three principal officers, J. C. Vinson, S. P. Brown and
W. P. Wilson.
A. B. Taylor & Son organized the Pendleton Banking Company in
1872. Some years later they disposed of the bank by selling it to E. P.
Rogers, who admitted Thomas M. Hardy to a partnership. In 1891
Aaron Morris became interested in the institution and about 1897 Mr.
Rogers retired. This bank has a capital stock of $25,000 and is in-
corporated as a state bank. Its surplus is over $8,000 and its deposits
nearly $250,000. In August, 1913, the officers of the bank were : Thomas
M. Hardy, president; R. A. Morris, vice-president; W. P. Morris,
cashier; V. P. Wilson, assistant cashier.
The Pendleton Trust Company was organized in the spring of 1910,
with a capital of $25,000. Its officers in August, 1913, were as follows:
A. C. Anderson, president; G. R. Mingle, vice-president; R. P. Thomas,
secretary and treasurer. At that time its deposits amounted to about
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 143
$60,000. Incorporated under the laws of Indiana, the company is
authorized to transact all classes of business legally transacted by trust
companies within the state.
The Summitville Bank and Trust Company was organized on April
14, 1913, by merging the two banks then in the town and the Summit-
ville Realty Company into one institution. In 1892 the Summitville
Bank was organized by A. J. Brunt and a Mr. Scott. Two years later
William Warner became president and Maurice Warner cashier, and
they remained at the head of the concern until the formation of the
Summitville Bank and Trust Company. W. H. Dobson and others
organized the Citizens' tiank, of Summitville, in 1893 and it continued
under that name until in 1905 when it was changed to the Farmers'
and Merchants' Bank. In the consolidation of these two banks' to form
the Summitville Bank and Trust Company the capital stock was fixed
at $35,000, all of which is paid in. The deposits amount to about
$300,000. John F. P. Thurston is president of the institution; Jesse
Vermillion, vice-president; Maurice Warner, secretary; C. M. Waltz
and Frank "SI. Hundley, assistant secretaries. The trust company
department is under the management of Robert McLain and John M.
Kaufman. Soon after the bank was organized the directors purchased
and remodeled the McNabney block, at the corner of Main and Mill
streets, which the management claims is the largest and best equipped
banking room in this section of the state.
In 1876 Cornelius Quick opened a private bank at Frankton, with
his son, George Quick, as a partner. Some years later George Quick
became interested in the Anderson Banking Company and is now a
director in that institution. In 1909 this bank was reorganized as a
state bank, with a capital stock of $17,000, and in 1913 the deposits were
about $110,000. Charles C. Dehority is president; J. M. Farlow, vice-
president, and J. 0. Lee, cashier.
The State Bank of Lapel was organized under the laws of Indiana
in 1898, with a capital stock of $25,000, though it had been founded
some years before bj- David Conrad and conducted as a private bank
until incorporated. David Conrad is now president and D. E. Conrad,
cashier. This bank has deposits of over $100,000 and a surplus of
about $1,000.
On January 6, 1913, the Markleville Bank, a private institution,
subject to the banking laws of the state, was organized at Markleville,
with a capital stock of $10,000. Of this bank C. W. Keach is president ;
J. F. Keach, vice-president; and Benjamin Keach, cashier.
The report of the State Bureau of Statistics for the year 1912 says
of Madison county: "Before gas was discovered in 1887, agriculture
was the county's leading industry; but since then manufacturing has
grown rapidly, and now many hundreds of skilled workmen are em-
ployed in the numerous large plants, which produce nails, files, wire
fence, cut, window and plate glass, decorative tile, carriages, refriger-
ators, electrical supplies, granite ware, tinplate, silos, automobiles, etc.,
worth millions of dollars."
While the above statement is true, it is equally true that consider-
able manufacturing was done in the county before the discovery of
144 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
natural gas. The earliest manufacturing establishments were flour mills.
What were known as the Cataract mills were built at Pendelton as early
as 1825. The Silver or Lower mills, were built at Pendleton in 1828,
and the National mills in 1848. The latter were supplied with two
Leffel turbine wheels and had a capacity of forty barrels of flour per
day. In 1856 a large merchant mill was erected at Perkinsville by
Jacob Zeller. The Germania mills, at Anderson, were established in
1867, by J. H. Carl & Son, in a building at the crossing of Fifth street
and the Pan Handle Railroad that had been erected for a grain elevator
by Mortimer Atherton twelve years before. These mills, now known
as the SehaLk mills, are still in operation, G. D. Schalk, of Hamilton,
Ohio, having purchased the property in 1869 and made a number of
improvements. In 1876 he was killed in this mill by the bursting of
a buhr. His partner, James Wellington, took charge of the mill and
with the minor sons of Mr. Schalk conducted the business and made
further improvements. Subsequently, the sons of G. D. Schalk pur-
chased Mr. Wellington's interest and haye since operated the mill in
their own name.
The Henderson mills, also at Anderson, were built by James M.
Dickson in 1874, on the west side of Meridian street, just north of the
Big Four Railroad. After several changes in ownership they became
the property of Edgar Henderson in October, 1878. He operated the
mills until they were destroyed by fire on October 22, 1881, when he
sold the lot and removed to Kingman, Kansas, where he died some years
later. Another concern of this kind is the Wellington mills, located at
the junction of Central avenue and the Big Four tracks in Anderson.
A carding machine was established in connection with his mill near
Chesterfield, about 1838, by Frederick Bronnenberg. James M. Irish
erected a woolen mill at Pendleton a few years later. He transferred
it to his sons and it was operated by them until destroyed by fire in
1865. The following year it was rebuilt and continued as a woolen mill
until about 1870, when it was converted into a flour mill. There was
also a woolen mill in the southern part of Richland township. It was
built in the early '40s by John B. Purcell, who sold it to Stephen Broad-
bent. Mr. Broadbent continued to operate this mill until his death.
It was the last woolen mill in active operation in the county.
In 1865, the year Anderson was incorporated as a city, James, A. J.
and H. W. Quinn began the manufacture of carriages at the corner of
Main and Fifth streets, near the Pan Handle station, under the firm
name of James Quinn & Sons. James Quinn learned his trade in Ire-
land and his motto was apparently "Honesty is the best policy," as
some of the vehicles made by him and his sons nearly half a century ago
are still in use.
George Mathes and H. H. Conrad formed a partnership in 1866
and began the manufacture of wagons and carriages iinder the firm
name of Conrad & Mathes. Two years later Mr. Mathes withdrew from
the firm and engaged in business for himself on North Main street, not
far from the Pan Handle freight house. In 1877 his brother, William
Mathes, became a partner and the business of the new firm was en-
larged until the Mathes wagon became one of the best known in central
HISTORY OP M.A.DISON COUNTY 145
Indiana. They also shipped a number of wagons to West Virginia
and Ohio. This business is now conducted by Fred Mathes, a son of the
late George Jlathes, who in the spring of 1913 erected a new building
and added a department for repairing automobiles. This is one of the
oldest plants in the city of Anderson.
Jackson & Holloway established a chair factory at the corner of
Eleventh and Meridian streets, in Anderson, in 1865 ; Anderson, Chit-
tenden & Sisco started a factory in 1868 for the manufacture of spokes,
hubs, etc., but five years later the founders were succeeded by the firm
of Lafe J. Burr & Company ; C. T. Doxey & Company engaged in the
manufacture of heading and staves in 1870, their factory having been
located on Jackson street near the Big Four tracks ; and the Ralya stave
factory, near the junction of the Big Four and Pan Handle tracks, was
started by J. J.- Ralya in 1877. All these concerns, in common with,
other wood working factories, were discontinued when the supply of
timber suitable for their use was exhausted.
The Michner Machine Works was organized and incorporated in
1870, with D. W. Swank as president and John W. Westerfield as secre-
tary and treasurer. A foundry and machine shop were erected at the
north end of Jackson street. In 1875 the plant became the Anderson
Foundry and Machine Works, under which name it is still in operation.
Brick making machinery and gas engines are the leading products of
the factory. As an interesting historical fact, the Anderson Foundry
and Machine Works was the first factory to receive a subsidy for locat-
ing in the city of Anderson. The grounds upon which the plant stands
were donated by James Hazlett and the city made an appropriation
to induce the company to locate here.
Platter & Foreman started a pump factory on January 1, 1873,
in buildings that had been erected for the purpose by some other parties
in 1859. After several unsuccessful attempts to make pumps here by
various parties the works were abandoned in 1870 and stood idle for
nearly three years. Platter & Foreman infused new life into the project
and a year after they began business, James Battreall was admitted as
a partner. In a short time the porcelain-lined wooden pumps made by
this firm were knowii all over northern and central Indiana, the southern
peninsula of Michigan and western Ohio. Scarcity of timber was the
principal cause of the suspension of this concern. Platter and Battreall
are both now deceased.
The Natural Gas Era
It is believed that natural gas was first utilized in the United States
at Fredonia, New York, in 1821, when a "pocket" was struck and the
product was used for illuminating purposes. About forty years later,
while developing the oil fields of western Pennsylvania, enough gas
was discovered to serve as fuel under the boilers instead of coal, and
in 1873 gas was first used in the manufacture of iron at Leechburg,
Pennsylvania. Prospecting went on and in the early '80s a rich gas
field was found in Washington county, Pennsylvania. In 1884 the first
gas wells were drilled near Findlay, Ohio, opening the field in that state.
146
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The first successful gas well was drilled in Indiana near Eaton, Delaware
county, in 1886, and early the following year a well was drilled on the
farm of Samuel Cassell, at Alexandria. This was the first well in
Madison county. The second was sunk at Anderson, where a large flow
of gas was found on ]\Iarch 31, 1887. The company that ordered the
drilling of this well was organized at the courthouse on the evening
of January 25, 1887, with a capital stock of $20,000, and, inasmuch as
its labor resulted in transforming Anderson from a sleepy little city
of about 6,000 population into the seventh city of the state, it is deemed
advisable to give the names of tln' men who had the courage to sub-
FiRST Gas Well, Anderson
scribe for stock in an undertaking that might end in failure. They were :
L. J. Burr, G. D. Searle, C. K. and Thomas McCullough, Harry Brels-
ford, H. J. Bronnenberg, F. W. Makepeace, H. J. Daniels, R, P. Grimes,
George C. Forrey, W. A. Kittinger, E. P. Schlater, J. P. Wild, A. B.
Buck, E. T. Brickley, James Wellington, B. L. Bing, W. L. Maynard,
A. J. Brunt, Thomas J. McMahan, Peter Fromlet, Harrison Canaday,
Joseph Schwabacher, Patrick Skehan, George Jlatthews, J. F. Brandon,
Samuel Kiser, W. T. Durbin, L. D. Adams, Thomas M. Norton, J. L.
Kilgore, I. E. May, J. A. Munchoff, N. C. McCullough, John H. Ter-
hune, William Crim, IMilton S. Robinson, and the firms of Nichol &
Makepeace and Sansberry & Sansberry.
To promote the industrial interests of Anderson the board of trade
was organized, but no effectual woi-k was done toward the securing
of new factories xintil late in the fall, when the Fowler Nut and Bolt
Works, of Buffalo, New York, removed to Anderson. This concern
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 147
was followed by others, among wliieh were the American Wire Nail
Company, the Union Strawboard Company, the Anderson Flint Bottle
Company and the Knife and Har Works. By 1890 a number of new
nianufac'tnring eoncerns had located in the city, adding materially to
the population and wealth of Anderson.
One of the largest of these concerns is the American Steel and Wire
Company, which was originally organized at Covington, Kentucky, for
the manufacture of wire nails. In 1888, attracted by natural gas, the
plant was removed to Anderson and the capital stock increased from
$60,000 to $300,000. This company makes all kinds of wire nails and
tacks, wire rods, plain and barbed fence wire, steel springs of all kinds,
wire rope, concrete reinforcement, wire hoops, etc. The main offices
of the company are in Chicago. The Anderson plant employs 600 peo-
ple and is one of the principal works of the company.
The Anderson Knife and Bar Company was first located at Dayton,
Ohio, where it was established by Manning & Farmer. In September,
1888, it removed to Anderson. At that time the capital stock was fixed
at $25,000 and eighteen people were employed. The present number of
employees is about thirty. This company manufactures all kinds of
machine knives for wood-working and paper-cutting machinery, shear
blades, fly bars, etc. The works are located in Hazelwood addition.
Mention has been made of the Fowler Nut and Bolt Works, which
was the first factory to locate in Anderson after the discovery of gas.
After the removal it took the name of the Anderson Bolt Company,
under which name it was operated until 1895, when it changed owners
and became the Schofield Bolt Works. When the supply of gas failed
this factory was discontinued. A similar concern was the Anderson
Iron and Bolt Company,, organized by local capitalists, which was sub-
sequently sold to a company in Louisville, Kentucky, and the works
were removed to that city.
The National Tile Company, originally the Columbia Encaustic
Tile Company, was organized by some Indianapolis men, who located a
factory in the southeastern part of Anderson early in the days of the
gas boom and began the manufacture of unglazed floor tiles, enameled
tiles for hearths, mantels and wainscoting, and embossed tiles. George
E. Lilly is the present president of the company. This concern ships
several car loads of tile each week and maintains sales offices in New
York, Chicago, St. Louis and San Francisco. It is one of the leading
manufacturing industries in Madison county, employing about 200
people.
In 1888 the Penn.sylvania Glass Company was removed from Mead-
ville, Pennsylvania, to Anderson and located near the south end of
Meridian street. At the present time it is under the management of
John Shies, president and general manager, John L. Porkner, secre-
tary and treasurer, and is engaged in the manufacture of fruit .jars,
bottles and druggists' prescription ware. It employs 200 people.
Another Anderson factory of note is the Sefton Manufacturing
Company, which makes all kinds of paper cartons, corrugated ship-
ping cases, paper pails, mailing envelopes, etc. The company has
plants at Anderson, Chicago and Brooklyn, the one at Anderson em-
ploying 500 or more people the year round.
148 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
In North Anderson is located the Wright Shovel Company, a part
of the Ames Tool Company, manufacturers of shovel plate, manufac-
turing tools of various kinds, etc. This company also has a plant
at Elwood. The works at Anderson employ about 175 men.
The Buckeye Manufacturing Company was formed at Union City,
Ohio, where it was engaged in business for several years before remov-
ing to Anderson. When first started in the spring of 1884 the business
was conducted under the firm name of Lambert Brothers & Company,
with a small capital and was engaged in making neck yokes and buggy
materials, with a force of six men and perhaps as many boys. For
a while the 'firm was known as J. H. Osborne & Company, and under
this name the manufacture of certain hardware specialties was added.
Mr. Osborne withdrew in 1890 and the old name of Buckeye Manu-
facturing Company was resumed. In 1891 the plant was destroyed by
fire, but was soon rebuilt upon a larger scale. The Lambert gasoline
engine was patented in 1894 and the company was then reorganized
and incorporated with a capital stock of $100,000; John W. Lambert,
president; George Lambert, vice-president; C. A. Lambert, secretary
and treasurer. In recent years the company has added the manu-
facture of automobiles, which has come to be the chief product of the
factory. The company employs about 200 persons, most of whom
are slalled workmen.
The first glass factory to locate in Anderson was the Anderson
Flint Bottle Company, which was removed from Butler, Pennsylvania,
in 1888. At the time of the removal the company was capitalized at
$60,000 and employed about 100 people, with Alexander P. McKee as
secretary, treasurer and general manager. With the failure of the
gas supply this company liquidated and went out of business.
In 1889 the Union Straw Board Company established a factory
in Anderson. Subsequently the name was changed to the American
Straw Board Company. The capital stock of this concern was $500,000
and in its day it was one of the largest plants of its kind in the country.
The buildings, near the north end of Delaware street, are now used by
a roofing company.
The Arcade File Works, located in the southeastern part of the
city, is one of the industries that has continued to prosper after nat-
ural gas was exhausted. This company makes all kinds of files, the
Anderson plant being one of a chain of factories owned by the Nichol-
son File Company, the largest producers of files in the world. About
600 people are employed, most of them skilled workmen, and the pay
roll of the file works is probably the largest of any manufacturing con-
cern in the city. It was established in 1891.
In addition to the factories already mentioned that ceased to do
business with the failure of natural gas, the following may be added
to the list: Anderson Forging Company, Anderson Paint Company,
Anderson Paper Company, Anderson Pottery Company, Cansfield Sta-
tionery Company, Cathedral Glass Company, Electric Power Compauy,
Fisher Snath Company, Gould Steel Company, Haugh-Kurtz Steel Com-
pany, Indiana Box Company (removed to Elwood), National Tin Plate
Company, Union Glass Company, Victor Window Glass Company,
Wooley Foundry, and the Speed Changing Pulley Works.
HISTORY OP JVIADISON COUNTY 149
A mere superficial glance at this list might convey the impression
that, with the loss of all these factories, Anderson is a dead town. But
such is not the ease, for scarcely had one factory suspended than an-
other came in and took its place. The report of the State Bureau of
Inspection for the year 1912 gives the following list of Anderson manu-
factories, with the general character of their business and the number
of employees in each :
American Rotary Valve Company, compressors, motors, etc., 200;
American Steel and Wire Company, all kinds of wire products, 600;
Ames Shovel and Tool Company, shovel plate and manufacturing tools,
Remy Electric Co., Anderson
173 ; Anderson Brick Company, 91 ; Anderson Canning Company, corn,
peas and tomatoes, 300; Anderson Carriage Manufacturing Company,
35 ; Anderson Foundry and Machine Company, clay working and tin
plate machinery, 60 ; Anderson Gas Company, 25 ; Anderson Knife and
Bar Company, machine knives and heavy cutlery, 30; Anderson Mat-
tress Company, 8 ; Anderson Motor Company, 15 ; Anderson Plating
Company, electro plating, 4 ; Anderson Rubber Works, rubber tires and
specialties, 25; Anderson Tool Company, automatic computing scales,
etc., 230; Arcade Pile Works, 550; Barber Manufacturing Company,
bed springs, cushion springs, etc., 30; W. B. Brown & Company, gas
and electric fixtures and supplies, 90 ; Buckeye Manufacturing Com-
pany, automobiles, gasoline engines, etc., 200; Bulletin Printing and
Manufacturing Company, 23 ; Computing Cheese Cutter Company, 19 ;
J. H. Cloud Company, automobile tops, 15; Crystal Ice Company, 15;
Daniels, Lyst & Douglas, paving and concrete construction, 90 ; De
Tamble Motors Company, automobiles, 160; Dwiggins Wire and Pence
Company, 40; Pletcher Enamel Company, granite enameled kitchen
150 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ware, 80 ; Frazer Stove Company, steel ranges, 75 ; Gedge Brothers Iron
Hoofing Company, iron roofing, corrugated siding, galvanized iron water
tanks, etc., 15 ; Herald Publishing Company, 46 ; Hill Machine Company,
pumping machinery, 42; Hill Standard Manufacturing Company, wire
wheels and children's velaicles, 75; Indiana Brick Company, 90; Indiana
lee and Dairy Company, ice and dairy products, 26 ; Indiana Silo
Company, silos, 52 ; Indiana Union Traction Company, 213 ; Lavelle
Foundry Company, castings of all kinds, 16; National Tile Company,
270 ; Norton Brewing Company, brewers and bottlers, 40 ; Nyberg Auto-
mobile Works, 70 ; Oswalt Printing and Paper Box Manufacturing Com-
pany, 18 ; Pennsylvania Glass Company, 200 ; Philadelphia Quartz Com-
pany, silicate of soda and heavy chemicals, 25 ; Pierse Furniture Com-
pany, dining and library tables, 8 ; Remy Electric Company, magnetos,
etc., 288 ; Reynolds Gas Regulator Company, 40 ; Sefton Manufacturing
Company, 500; Shimer & Company, wire fencing and recutting files,
25 ; Spring Steel Fence and Wire Company, wire fencing and gates,
40; Star Foundry and Machine Works, machinery for canning fac-
tories, 51 ; Wright Rich Cut Glass Company, 40.
From this list it may be seen that over 5,000 persons are employed
in the manufacturing establishments of Anderson, and it is quite prob-
able that two- thirds of the city's population are supported by them.
Lack of space forbids a detailed account of each one of these numerous
factories, but there are a few that are deserving of more than passing
mention. The Remy Electric Company was incorporated in October,
1901, and began business on First street. In 1904 the building now
occupied, in the southwestern part of the city, was erected and a larger
force of men employed. The magneto made by this company is used
on many of the standard automobiles. The company also manufactures
ignition for all kinds of motors, automatic starting motors and electric
locomotive headlights.
The Nyberg Automobile Works, located on West First street, were
originally started as the Rider-Lewis Automobile Company, but were
purchased and enlarged by Henry Nyberg. The cars turned out at this
factory have won a reputation all over the country — whether run-
abouts, touring ears or heavy trucks — and the factory is regarded as
one of Anderson's most substantial concerns. While the report of the
State Bureau of Inspection gives the number of employees as 70, that
number has been increased to about 300 since the report was published.
Fifteen thousand small wire wheels per daj^ is the capacitj^ of the
Hill-Standard Company, besides the large number of children's vehicles
that is constantly being turned out. Who has not seen the little wagon
known as "The Irish Mail?" It is an Anderson product that is sold
all over the country, made by the Hill-Standard Company.
On Ohio avenue, in the southeastern part of the city is located
the Wright Rich Cut Glass Company, of which Richard Wright is presi-
dent ; Hunter Richey, secretary ; and Thomas W. Wright, treasurer.
This is one of two cut glass factories reported in 1912 to the bureaii
of inspection, the other being located at Walkerton, St. Joseph county.
The glass made by this company is sold all over the United States and
compares favorably with the imported article.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 151
The Indiana Silo Company, "William Swain president, has two plants
and several thousand silos in use. It is one of the Anderson industries
that is advertising the city over a wide expanse of territory.
There are also a few factories in Anderson that did not make reports
to the state inspection department in 1912. Among these may be men-
tioned the Anderson Art Glass Company, the Gospel Trumpet Company,
the Koons Oil Furnace Company, the United States Electric Company,
the Vulcanite Roofing Company and the Webb-Baxter Company. The
Anderson Art Glass Company began business about 1888. It makes a
specialty of fine colored and bevel plate designs for memorial windows
in churches, etc. From twelve to fifteen men are constantly employed
and the products of this little factory are shipped to all parts of the
country. The Koons Oil Furnace Company is located at 639 Meridian
street. It makes oil furnaces for annealing, etc. The United States
Electric Company, located on West Tenth street, is owned and operated
by F. P. and Martin Dunn and George Louiso. It makes novelties in
the waj- of electric cigar lighters, clippers, etc. The Vulcanite Roofing
Company is located in the old strawboard plant at the corner of Hazlett
and Delaware streets and employs about seventy-five men in the man-
ufacture of roofing materials. This company also has plants at Frank-
lin, Oliio, Kansas City, Missouri, and San Francisco. In the old Neely
Saw Works building on South Brown street is the establishment of the
Webb-Baxter Company, which manufactures vacuum cleaning devices
that are sold over a large part of the country.
The Gospel Trumpet publishing plant is one of the largest printing
plants in the United States devoted exclusively to the publication of
religious literature. The annual output is constantly and rapidly in-
creasing. During recent years the company has sent out annually about
twenty car-loads of books, tracts, weekly periodicals, and Sunday-school
quarterlies. These are sent to all parts of North America, and to
Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America, and the islands of the
sea. The company maintains a German department, which edits Ger-
man periodicals and publishes a large number of German books and
tracts; also a department for the blind, which publishes books, tracts,
and periodicals in Braille and New York point prints, and conducts a
free library for the blind. Some of tlie literature of this faith is also pub-
lished in Dano-Xorwegian, Swedish, Russian, Lettish, Spanish, Japanese,
Chinese, Hindustani, and other languages. The company is not a com-
munistic colony or institution, but a corporation acting as a publishing-
center of the Church of Got!, with the sole object of publishing the relig-
ious truths taught in the Bible. Its publications are not issued for
profit. The company is organized under the charitable laws of the
State of Indiana. The corporation is self-perpetuating. At the annual
meeting in June the trustees elect the directors and the officers for the
following year.
The business is conducted by up-to-date systematic methods. A well-
organized working-force of about 225 persons is employed. This force
is^livided into about thirty departments with their respective heads.
Over these are the division managers, general superintendent, executive
committee, and finally the directors and trustees of the company.
152 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
A most interesting feature of this publishing-plant is that the em-
ployees, or "workers," as they call themselves, are not paid regular
salaries. They donate their services, receiving only their board, cloth-
ing, and actual expenses. This applies to all, from the common laborers
to the officers of the company. This plan, it is reported, has worked
well for over thirty years. The workers and the church prefer that
devotion to the cause, rather than desire for remuneration, be the
motive for engaging in this publishing-work. A considerable number
renjain for eight, ten, or fifteen years, but most of them for a shorter
time. In procuring the necessary funds as well as the labor, not even
the mildest form of coercion is employed. Only free-will offerings are
received. All profits and donations above the amount needed to oper-
ate the plant are used in sending out literature free, or in enlarging
the plant and in extending the circulation of the publication. The com-
pany maintains a Free Literature Fund to which donations, large and
small, are constantly being made by interested persons. Many thou-
sands of dollars' worth of free literature is sent out each year to mis-
sionaries and ministers, and to inquirers in all parts of the world.
The Gospel Trumpet Home is a large, three-story cement-block struct-
ure situated near the publishing-house. It contains, besides kitchen,
dining-room, laundry, etc., nearly one hundred living-rooms comfort-
ably, though economically, furnished. Most of the married employees
live in private cottages. The workers come from many different parts
of the country, almost every state in the Union being represented. Aside
from the object of donating their time and talents to the publication of
the literature, many come to receive training and qualification for min-
isterial work. A number of classes for the study of different branches
of knowledge are organized from time to time. Bible study and devo-
tional exercises are given prominence. In the chapel of the Trumpet
Home devotional services are held every day, and other public meetings
at appointed times. A high standard of Christian conduct and exper-
ience is demanded of those who are regarded as permanent workers.
The Gospel Trumpet, the main periodical of the Gospel Trumpet
Company, started on its career January 1, 1881, at Rome City, Indiana.
Later the publishing-office was moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, and
after several other moves, was located for thirteen years in Grand
Junction, Mich. Here D. S. Warner, the former editor, died, and the
present editor, E. E. Byrum, took charge. In 1898 another move was
made to Moundsville, W. Ta., and in 1906 the company located per-
manently in Anderson, Ind.
While the Gospel Trumpet office is not the headquarters of the
church, a great deal of correspondence and other business for the Church
of God is handled here. The Mission Board, both home and foreign,
has its office in the publishing-house. The general camp-meeting, at-
tended by several hundred ministers and workers and by several thou-
sand laymen, is held here each year in June. This meeting is not an
official or legislative body; but as it is the largest gathering of the
church, ministers, and foreign missionaries, and others make it a point
to attend as frequently as possible. Many visitors from all parts of the
United States and from foreign lands visit The Trumpet office with the
154 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
object of obtaining spiritual help and instruction. Many also come for
physical healing. Several hundred requests for prayer are received
each week — cablegrams, telegrams, telephone messages, and letters.
The prominent doctrines taught by the Gospel Trumpet literature
are: Conversion, or the new birth; sanctification, or the baptism of the
Holy Spirit; baptism by immersion; the Lord's Supper; feet-washing;
divine healing, and the unity of all believers. Special emphasis is laid
on the. doctrine of church unity. The church of God here represented
is not an ecclesiastical organization as are other churches; it is not
incorporated, has no church discipline but the Bible, has no roll of
members, nor does it license its ministers. After feeling the divine call
and meeting certain Biblical requirements, they are ordained by the
laying on of hands of the elders. All the ministers are recognized as
equal in .authority ; they have no bishops or presiding minister. Min-
isters preach where they feel led to go; they are not appointed to any
particular circuit or district. The membership of the Church of God
includes, according to their doctrine, all who have an experimental
knowledge of conversion, or the new birth (St. John 3:3), and are living
true Christian lives. The doctrine of divine healing, which is given
much prominence, is they claim, quite different from Christian Science.
The doctrine is founded on the example of Jesus Christ and on several
texts of Scripture, the chief one among which, probably, is St. James
5: 14, 15: "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the
church ; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name
of the Lord : and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord
shall raise him up ; and if he have committed sins, they shall be for-
given him." Numerous instances of notable healings are published in
The Gospel Trumpet literature.
As already stated, the first gas well in Madison county was on the
farm of Samuel Cassell, near the eastern terminus of Washington street,
Alexandria. It was sunk by the Alexandria Mining and Exploring
Company and "came in" on March 27, 1887, only four days before
gas was struck at Anderson. The people of Alexandria were not slpw to
take advantage of the discovery as a means of advertising their town,
though the first well was comparatively weak — about 2,000,000 cubic
feet per day — owing to the fact that the drillers were afraid to go too
deep into the Trenton rock, for fear of striking salt water. A second
well drilled by the same company went deeper into the gas-bearing rock
and showed a flow of 6,000,000 cubic feet per day. Soon after that a
Mr. Davis, of Indianapolis, located a large brick plant north of the
town ; Harper & Cruzen brought a window glass factory to Alexandria,
the first to locate in Madison county ; next came the Lippincott Glass
Chimney Works, whieli at one time employed over 600 men, and wliieli
is still one of the large maziufacturing concei-ns of Madison county;
following the Lippincott Company came the Indiana Brick Company;
the DePauw Plate Glass Company and the DePauw Window Glass Com-
pany were the next concerns to locate in Alexandria ; tlien came the
Kelly Ax Manufacturing Company and the Union Steel Company. With
the introduction of these manufacturing concerns and their army of
employees, Alexandria jumped from a little village of 800 to a city of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 155
some 7,000 population within two years. In common with other places
in the gas belt, the town suffered a period of comparative stagnation after
the failure of the gas supply, but there are still a number of prosperous
factories in or about the city, as may be seen from the following list
taken from the i-eport of the State Bureau of Inspection for 1912, show-
ing the number of employees :
Alexandria Creamery Company, butter and dairy products; Alexan-
dria Crushed Stone Company, crushed stone for paving, 26 ; Alexandria
Paper Company, print and wrapping papers, 100; American Insulating
Company, rock products, mineral wool, etc., 25 ; Art Printing Company,
5 ; Banner Rock Products Company, cold storage insulation, 26 ; Brown-
ing Milling Company, 4 ; Empire Mirror and Beveling Company, mirrors
and beveled plate glass, 20 ; Hoosier Rock Wool Company, mineral wool,
etc. ; Imbler Fence Manufacturing Companj', woven wire fencing, 10 ;
Indiana Ice and Dairj' Company, 26 ; Lippincott Glass Company, lamp
chimneys, etc., 500; Penn-American Plate Glass Company, 470; "Wells
& Davis Boiler Shop, 5.
Although the loss of the DePauw Glass Works, the Kelly Ax Works
and the Union Steel Company threw about 3,000 people out of employ-
ment, many of whom left the city, the factories of Alexandria still em-
ploy regularly from 1,200 to 1,500 persons at good wages. The products
of the glass factories and the large refrigerators built by the American
Insulating Company and the Banner Products Company are shipped
to all parts of the country. The materials used by these factories in
the preparation of mineral wool, packing, insulating, etc., come from
the stone in the Pipe creek quarries. This line is comparatively new,
but the business is growing in a satisfactory manner to all concerned.
Among the factories that closed when the gas gave out, the Kelly
Ax Company was one of the best known. W. C. Kelly, the patentee of
the ax manufactured, was president of the company, which employed
at one time about 400 men, the axes being shipped in large quantities to
the lumbering districts all over the civilized world. Another factory
that is closed at present is the Steel Wheel Works. It is not abandoned
entirely but merely suspended, awaiting developments. It is the hope of
Alexandrians that some day soon it will open its doors and resume
business.
Elwood was not far behind Alexandria and Anderson in boring for
gas, and was as fortunate in striking it in large quantities. Within a
short time a number of manufacturing plants were located in the city.
Among them were the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Works, the Macbeth-
Evans Glass Company, the ^IcCloy Glass Works, the Elwood Furniture
Compan.y, the Elwood Boiler and Engine AVorks, Crystal Ice Manufac-
turing Company, Superior Radiator Company, Elwood Window Glass
Company, Nivisen & Weiskolp Bottle Works, Phil Hamm Boiler Works,
Akron Steam Forge Works, HefFner Planing Mill Company, American
Tin Plate Works, Elwood Box Factory, Elwood Iron Works and the
Excelsior Works.
On the night of June 25, 1891, a destructive fire broke out in the
Plate Glass Works. The Elwood fire department at that time was rather
limited and word was sent to Anderson, Logansport and Kokomo ask-
156 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
iug for help. Logansport sent a fire engine, Kokomo two hose carta,
and Anderson sent the hose wagon and hook and ladder truck by special
train. Before any of the outside help arrived the fire was under control,
but the plant was damaged about $60,000. The burned portions were
quickly rebuilt in a more substantial manner.
The Excelsior Works burned on December 20, 1888, the fire originat-
ing by th-e ignition of gas while making repairs. Adam Miller and
Michael Glaspy, who were at work on the repairs in the engine room,
were severely burned. The loss was about $4,000.
A list of Elwood factories reporting to the State Bureau of Inspec-
tion in 1912, with the number of employees in each, is as follows : Ameri-
can Sheet and Tin Plate Company, 1,800; Ames Shovel and Tool Com-
pany, 141 ; Dkwson Machine Works, foundry and machine work, 5 ; L.
J. Diamond, plate, sheet and structural iron work, 15 ; J. P. IDowns,
abattoir, 7 ; Elwood Call-Leader, printing, 10 ; A. D. Moffett, priating,
6; Elwood Iron Works, tin plate machinery, 30; Elwood Lawn Mower
Manufacturing Company, 50; Prazier Packing Company, catsup, chili
sauce, canned vegetables, etc., 100 ; Home Storage and Manufacturing
Tin Plate Works, Elwood
Company, ice and soft drinks, etc., 20 ; Indiana Box Company, wooden
packing eases, 61 (This plant was partially destroyed by fire in August,
1913, but was immediately rebuilt) ; Irwin & Turner Canning Company;
Macbeth-Evans Glass Company, pearl top chimneys, globes, flues and
shades, 400; Ohio Oil Company, pumping station, 40; Pittsburgh Plate
Glass Company (pot works), glass pots, 25; G. I. Sellers & Sons Com-
pany, kitchen cabinets, 68 ; J. L. Small, gloves, 7 ; Tipton-Berry Cigar
Company, 38 ; Hoosier Stogie Manufacturing Company, 23.
A comparison of this list with the one given above, of the factories
that located in Elwood soon after the discovery of gas, will show that
some of the early factories have been discontinued and that new ones
have been established. Of the 11,028 inhabitants of Elwood, approxi-
mately 3,000 are employed in her factories — a larger proportion than
any other city or town in the county.
Elwood also has the largest single plant of any kind in the county — •
The American Sheet and Tin Plate Company. This factorj^ was opened
on September 13, 1892, when William McKinley, chairman of the ways
and means committee of Congress that reported the McKinley tariff bill
and afterward president of the United States, visited Elwood and made a
speech, in which he maintained that the increase in duty imposed by the
new tariff made the establishment of tin plate mills in this country
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 157
possible. As at first established the plant consisted of four hot mills
and a tinning department of six stacks, employing in all about 300 men,
nearly all of whom had been brought from England and Wales. The
original directors of the company were D. G. Reid, W. M. Leeds, J. M.
Overshiner, P. G. Darlington, A. L. Conger, John F. Hazen and W. P.
Ilutton. For some time the plant worked under disadvantages, but in
1898 the American Tin Plate Company was formed, and with the absorp-
tion of the Elwood works by this company a new era was begun. Six
more hot mills were brought to Elwood from Montpelier, making the
plant one of the largest factories in Indiana.
On September 13, 1912, the works celebrated their twentieth anni-
versary. By that time the tin plate factory had grown to twenty-eight
hot mills, the entire works covering thirty-four acres of ground and
employing 1,800 men, many of whom own homes in the city.
Frankton, Lapel, Pendleton and Summitville also benefited by the
discoverj' of natural gas, wells having been sunk in those towns soon after
Alexandria, Anderson and Elwood were enjoying the benefits of nature's
bounty in the way of cheap fuel.
At Frankton the Clyde Window Glass Company erected two fac-
tories. The Frankton Window Glass Company quickly followed. Then
came the Wetherald Rolling Mill, the Hoosier Fence Company, the
Frankton Brick Works, the Dwiggins Fence Company, the Bradrick
and Lineburg Fence Works, the Quick City Novelty Works and a few
other concerns. Most of these factories have been discontinued, the
only one reporting to the state bureau of inspection in 1912 being
the Hoosier Fence Company, which employed 20 men, and the Frankton
Canning Company, also employing 20 persons.
Two large flour mills, a bottle factory, a tile mill, a pump and gas
regulator works, and some minor concerns were located at Lapel. The
bottle factory is still running and in 1912 employed 120 people, and
there is also a large canning factory at Lapel.
The Pendleton Window Glass Company was organized soon after
gas was struck there, with B. F. Aiman at its head. This factory was
isituated on the north side of Fall creek and at one time employed a
large number of men. On the south side of town was the Indiana
Window Glass and Bottle Factory, and the Guptill Glass Works, which
made a specialty of glass tubing for drains, conduits, etc., was located
in the northern part of town, near the Big Four Railroad. There were
also a wire fence factory, tile mill and brick factory. The buildings
once occupied by the Pendleton Window Glass Company are now used
as a canning factory. For a while the Motsinger Device Company, man-
ufacturers of automobile accessories, was located in Pendleton. Among
the present business concerns of the town is the Hardy Manufacturing
Company, which makes sheet metal ware, conduits for silos, etc.
Soon after gas was struck at Alexandria and Anderson a successful
well was sunk at Summitville. Within a short time Central Gla.ss Com-
pany, the Crystal Window Glass Company, tlie Rothschild Glass Com-
pany, the Summitville Brick Factory and the Summitville Tile Works
158 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
were all in active operation. Other factories that located here about
that time were the Madison Brick Company and a stave and hoop
factory. The American Flint Bottle Company also established a plant
here, but it was destroyed by fire and never rebuilt: The Central Glass
Company is still running as the Model Glass Works and is engaged in
the manufacture of bottles, employing about 250 men and boys. The
Summitville Tile Works were started by S. C. Cowgill and at one time
manufactured more drain tile than any similar concern in the United
States. It is now a part of the National Drain Tile Company, which
owns several tile mills in the state. About sixty men are constantly em-
ployed at this factory. There is also anotlier tile works here, now called
the Summitville Tile Works, operated by Berry & Morris. The old
flour mill, from which Mill street took its name, was sold some years ago
by Joseph Daniels to J. M. Gordon and now forms part of the grain
elevator on Main street. About the time this sale was made a model
flour mill was erected by S. B. Gilman & Company and is still running.
To Lemuel Webb, however, belongs the credit of having erected the first
modern flour mill in Summitville. After his death the mill was suc-
cessfully operated for a number of j^ears by his daughter, but shortly
after her marriage she disposed of the property.
Ingalls, in Green township, was laid out during the gas boom and
several factories were projected at that place. Among them were
the Zinc Works, which at one time employed a large number of people,
and a glass factory for the manufacture of fruit jars was erected by
Henry Wagner and others in 1895. It employed a number of opera-
tives and had a successful career for a while, but, like most of the
factories in the smaller towns, all those at Ingalls were closed when
the gas failed.
As an evidence that the manufacturers of Madison county, especially
those of Anderson, are wide awake to their interests and ready to
promote their material progress, a "Made in Anderson" exhibit was
held the first week in June, 1913. Eighth street from Meridian to
Morton was lined with booths, under a mammoth tent, in which the
various manufacturing establishments of the city arranged their ex-
hibits. The exhibit opened on Saturday, May 31, 1913, by a great auto-
mobile parade, at the head of which rode Governor Samuel M. Ralston
and the managers of the exhibit in a nickel-plated Lambert automobile
built especially for the occasion. Following the line of automobiles were
a number of manufacturers' floats. In this part of the parade were
represented the American Steel and Wire Company, the American
Rotary Valve Company, the Anderson Mattress Company, the Public
Schools of the city, the Pennsylvania Glass Company, the Indiana Brick
Company, the Dwiggins Fence Company, the National Tile Company,
the Hill-Tripp Company, the Nyberg Automobile Company and a
number of others, all presenting some feature of their particular indus-
tries in an attractive manner. After the parade the governor formally
opened the exhibit in an appropriate address. Hundreds of people from
other cities were in attendance. Among the distinguished visitors
during the succeeding week was James Whitcomb Riley, the "Hoosier
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
159
Poet," who was a special guest of honor on Tuesday, June 3d, which
(late was set apart by the managers as "Riley Day." It was generally
remarked by those who attended the exhibit that it was a credit to a city
the size of Anderson, and the immediate result was seen in increased
orders by the factories participating.
Notwithstanding the great progress made in manufacturing during
the last quarter of a century, agriculture is still the chief source of
wealth and the tiller of the soil is still king. According to statistics for
The year 1910, Madison county stood far above the average of the ninety-
two counties of the state in the production of the staple crops. It was
the thirtieth county in the state in the production of wheat, ninth in
corn, twenty-fourth in oats, twenty-second in rye, twelfth in potatoes,
sixteentli in tomatoes, twenty-eighth in timothy hay, sixteenth in clover
hay. fifth in clover seed, eighteenth in the value of horses On hand,
fifth in milk sold, nineteenth in butter, the value of dairy products
being over $450,000, tenth in the value of cattle sold, tenth in the value
of hogs sold, and fifteenth in the production of eggs, over 1,000,000
dozen being sold, bringing $178,500. During the year over $500,000
^FaDISOX r'i)rXTV "WlTEATFIELD
of the mortgage indebtedness on farms in the county was paid. These
statistics indicate that the farmers of Madison county are, as a rule,
prosperous, and the visitor to the county sees evidence of this pros-
perity on every hand. Good dwelling houses and barns, bountiful crops
and an abundance of live stock bear out the statement that the farmer
is still the industrial king in the county.
In connection with the agricultural and stock breeding industry,
it is worthy of note that the large business of importing and breeding
English and Belgian horses by James Donnelly & Sons, of Chesterfield,
occupies a high place among the business enterprises of the county.
Mr. Donnelly and his two sons cross the ocean twice each year, bringing
back with them herds of fine horses for sale, or for breeding purposes.
They claim to have the largest horse breeding farm in the State of
Indiana, dealing exclusively in imported stock.
At one time Madison county promised to become a paying oil field.
Many wells were sunk in various parts of the county, some of which
were' producers in paying quantities, especially those in Monroe town-
160 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ship. It has already been stated that the first gas well in the county
was sunk in this township, and it is equally true that the first oil well
in the county was drilled on the form of Nirarod Carver, in Monroe
township. Some experts in the oil industry predict that a profitable
petroleum field will vet be developed in Madison county.
CHAPTER X
INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS
Old Tr.uls — First Highways — State Roads — Turnpike Companies
AND Toll Roads — The Era op Canals — Land Grants — State Legis-
lation FOR Internal Improvements — Act of 1836 — Indiana Cen-
tral Canal — Its Collapse — The Hydraulic Project — Railroads —
Early Ideas Regarding Them — The Big Four — First Train to
Anderson — The Pan Handle — Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan —
Lake Erie & Western — The Central Indiana — Ditches — Union
Traction Company
One of the first necessities in the way of internal improvements in a
new country is the construction of public highways. When the first
white men came to what is now Madison county there was not "a stick
of timber amiss." In going from one place to another the most direct
route was followed, a small compass often being used to keep the traveler
in his course. The first roads were merely marked by "blazes" on the
trees, without regard to section lines, no matter how much they might
later interfere with some pioneer's farming operations. Where an old
Indian trail existed it was used by the settlers until better roads could
be constructed. In after years all these early "traces" were straightened
end altered to conform to tlie lines of the official survey running east
and west and north and south.
Surveys were made for state roads at an early date. Some of these
roads were afterward opened and improved, but in a majority of in-
stances they were .simply "cut out" by the settlers living along the route,
verj' little expenditure being made by the state beyond the cost of the
surve}'. One of the first roads of this character to be surveyed through
J\Iadison county was the Indianapolis & Fort Wayne state road, which
was laid out about 1825 and passed through Jackson, Pipe Creek, Monroe
and Van Buren townships. The Shelbyville & Fort Wayne state road,
which was laid out about 1830, ran northward through Anderson and
Alexandria and formed a junction with the Indianapolis road near the
northern line of what is now Monroe township.
The Newcastle & Lafayette state road was established about the
same time as the Shelbyville road, or perhaps a year or two sooner.
Morgan Shortridge and Zenas Beckwith were appointed by the state
legislature to locate this road and report to the board of justices in each
of the counties through which it was to pass. Their report was dated
December 13, 1828, and the road was opened for the greater part of the
Vol. 1 -II
161
162 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
distance the following year. It entered iladison county about a mile
tnd a half north of the southeast corner, ran thence a northwesterly
direction through Pendleton and across Green township into Hamilton
county.
Another state road projected in the early '30s was the one running
from Newcastle to Logansport. It followed closely the route over which
the Pan Handle railroad now runs. When the legislature granted the
railroad company the right of way over this line the act contained a
provision that a good wagon road should be constructed by the railroad
company parallel to its tracks, but the charter once obtained the company
paid no attention to the stipulation regarding the construction of a
public highway.
In the spring of 1832 a road between Pendleton and Strawtown was
laid out and before the close of that year it was made passable. That
portion of this road in Madison county was afterward made the Pendle-
ton & Fishersburg pike.
Another old highway was the one running west from Anderson to
Strawtown via Hamilton (now Halford) and Perkinsville. It is a con-
tinuation of West Eighth street in Anderson. Along in the latter '30s
and during the '40s, when there was a heavy tide of immigration to the
western states, this road acquired almost a national reputation. Old
settlers living as far east as the Ohio state line can recall the covered
wagons bound westward, the drivers of which would eagerly inquire the
best way to reach the Strawtown road, and manj^ a western pioneer has
traveled over this old pathway to fortune or to failure.
For thirty-five years after Madison county was erected the only high-
ways were of that variety known as "dirt roads." During this period
the county was divided into road districts, in each of which was an ofS-
cial called a supervisor, whose duty it was to "call out" eveiy able-
bodied man between the ages of twenty-one and fifty years to work for
two, three or four days in each year upon the public highway. In these
cases the supervisor would designate what tools each man should bring.
Engineering, as applied to the construction and maintenance of high-
ways, was unknown, each supervisor exercising his own fancy as to what
work was essential. Low places were filled with soil or clay and shallow
ditches were plowed along the roadside, to be filled up again when the
rainy season came. Every spring, when the ground thawed out, the
condition of these roads can be better imagined than described.
Then came the era of turnpikes — toll roads constructed by private
corporations. After laws were passed by the state legislature, authoriz-
ing the organization of companies to build improved roads. Dr. John
Hunt was the pioneer of the movement in Madison county. Through his
efforts and influence a company was organized in 1858 to build what was
long known as the Anderson & Alexandria pike. The first officers of the
company were William Crim, president ; Joseph Fulton, secretary ; Neal
C. McCullough, treasurer. The directors were W. A. Hunt, George
Niehol, Curran Beall and Frederick Black. The officers of the company
were never changed, except that upon the death of Mr. JlcCullough, his
son, C. K. McCullough, was elected treasurer. Work was commenced
soon after the company received its charter and the road was completed
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 163
from Anderson to within two miles of Alexandria, when work was sus-
pended for some reason and the north end of the line was never finished.
This road was the first turnpike in the county.
In 1859 the Pendleton & Newcastle Turnpike Company was organ-
ized with Neal Hardy as president; J. T. Wall, secretary; L. W. Thomas,
treasurer; C. G. Mauzy, Ralph Williams and Elwood Brown, directors.
This pike was constructed on the line of the Newcastle & Lafayette state
road. Work was commenced in the fall of 1859, but it was not com-
pleted to the Henry county line — a distance of nine miles from Pendle-
ton— until 1867. The total cost of this pike was about $13,500, and the
county built two bridges, one over the Spring branch and the other over
Lick creek, at a cost of $1,415. For many years this road was recognized
as one of the best in the county. The portion of the Newcastle & Lafay-
ette state road running west from Pendleton was subsequently improved
and was known as the Pendleton & Noblesville pike.
The third turnpike built in the county was the one known as the
Pendleton & Eden pike, which ran southward from Pendleton for a dis-
tance of eight miles, passing the old village of Menden. Its total cost
was about $12,000 and it was completed in 1862.
During the Civil war — from 1861 to 1865 — little attention was given
to road building, the preservation of the Union overshadowing every-
thing else. In 1865 the Andei-son & Fishersburg Turnpike Company
was organized with the following officers and directors : David Conrad,
president ; C. D. Thompson, secretary ; Samuel Moss, treasurer ; Elias
Brown, William Woodward and John Cunningham, directors. This
road is a little over nine miles in length and was completed after several
delays at a cost of $2,000 per mile. It was one of the best paying turn-
pikes in the county.
Two turnpike companies were formed in 1866 — one for the purpose
of constructing the Anderson & New Columbus short line and the other
to build the Lick Creek pike. The officers of the former were N. C.
McCullough, president ; A. D. Williams, secretary ; George Nichol, treas-
urer ; Peter Fesler, Stephen Carr and Samuel Walden, directors. Work
was commenced soon afterthe company organization was perfected and
the road was completed to New Columbus (Ovid) at a cost of $1,200 per
mile. In 1872 the pike was extended two miles south of New Columbus
and this extension is sometimes called the Anderson & Knightstown pike.
The officers of the Lick Creek Turnpike Company were Jacob Ken-
nard, president; J. L. Thomas, secretary, and these two officers, with
J. P. James, constituted the board of directors. No work was done on
the road until in 1867, after which time the construction was pushed
vigorously, and the three and a half miles from Pendleton to the county
line were completed at a total cost of a little over $5,000.
In 1867 the Anderson & Lafayette pike was built from Anderson to
Frankton, in Lafayette township, a distance of six miles, for $1,800 per
mile. A portion of this road follows the old Newcastle and Logansport
state road. The same year the company was organized to build the road
known as the Killbuck pike, which runs northward from Anderson ancf
intersects the Anderson and Alexandria pike near the Big Killbuck creek.
From this point it extends in a northeasterly direction into Richland
164 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
township, its total length being about seven miles. The cost of construc-
tion was about $1,200 per mile.
A second pike, called east line road, was built from Anderson to
New Columbus in 1868 by a company of which George Nichol, Michael
Stohler, Ephraim Clem, Henry Keller and George F. Chittenden were
the moving spirits. It followed the road to Chesterfield for about a mile
from Anderson, when it turned abruptly to the south and followed the
section line to New Columbus. The cost of this road was $1,100 per mile.
A gravel road known as the Madison and Hancock pike was built in
1870, beginning at the Pendleton and Newcastle pike about two miles east
of Pendleton and running due south to the county line, thence to War-
rington, Hancock county. Three miles of the road are in IMadison
county, and tfcis portion of the road was constructed at a cost of $3,600.
The last toll road to be built in the county was the Anderson and Ham-
ilton pike, which was constructed in 1872. During the era of turnpikes
the roads of this character in Madison county were kept in good condi-
tion and most of them paid good dividends upon the capital invested.
Travelers through the county made many favorable comments upon the
condition of the turnpikes, and while some other counties in the state
might have had more miles of improved road, it is certain that none
showed a better class of such highways than ^Madison. In 1885 the legis-
lature passed an act providing for the purchase of toll roads by the
county commissioners in the several counties of the state, whenever a
majority of the voters at a general election expressed themselves in
favor of such a proposition. Within five j'ears after the taking effect of
this law the people of Madison county had voted in favor of buying all
the turnpikes and converting them into free gravel roads. If this meas-
ure has its advantages it also has its disadvantages. Money expended
by a private corporation in the repair of a turnpike generally pro-
duced better results than the same amount of the public funds expended
in the repair and maintenance of free gravel roads. In the one case the
work was always done under the supervision of a competent man in the
employ of the company, while in the other it is too frequently done
under a careless or incompetent official. IMadison county now has ap-
proximately five hundred miles of free gravel road, most of which is in
good condition, though it is possible that none of these highways comes
up to the standard of the old turnpike.
During the first twenty years of Indiana's statehood — from 1816 to
1836 — scarcely a session of the legislature was convened in which there
were not introduced one or more bills looking toward the establishment
of some system of internal improvements. Most of the governors during
this period were interested in the development of the resources of
Indiana and their messages to the general assembly were replete with
recommendations, some of which possessed merit, but many of them
would now be regarded as visionary in the extreme. Governor Ray was
especially energetic in his efforts to secure the enactment of laws that
would enable the state to prosecute "a grand system of internal improve-
ment to a successful termination, and for the ultimate production of a
revenue that shall relieve our fellow-citizens from taxation."
The prevalent idea seemed to be that water navigation was the one
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 165
thing needed to stimulate commerce and develop the natural resources
of the state. As early as 1822 the states of Indiana and Illinois began
to work together for the improvement of the Wabash river, and in 1823
the subject of connecting the Mauraee and Wabash rivers by a canal
came before the legislatures of Indiana, Illinois and Ohio. Nothing
definite was done at that time, but in 1827 the federal government gave
to the State of Indiana a large grant of land to aid in the construction
of a canal to connect Lake Erie with the Wabash river. Work on the
canal was commenced in 1832, under the supervision of a board of canal
commissioners.
Four years later the financial condition of the state was thought to
be such as to justify the inauguration of an extensive system of public
works. An act was accordingly passed by the legislature of 1836,
authorizing the appointment of a board of internal improvements, to
consist of six persons appointed by the governor "by and with the ad-
vice of the senate and the canal commissioners then in office." Eight
great water and land thoroughfares were specified in the bill, only one
of which directly aflfected Madison county, but the subject is deemed of
sufficient interest to justify the insertion here of the entire list, that the
reader may learn what ideas were entertained three-quarters of a cen-
tury ago with regard to the development of the state. The routes were
as follows:
1. The Whitewater Canal, which was to begin on the west braneli
of the Whitew'ater river at the crossing of the national road and thence
down the Whitewater valley to the Ohio river at Lawrenceburg.
2. The Central Canal, "to commence at the most suitable point on
the Wabash & Erie Canal, between Fort Wayne and Logansport, run-
ning thence to Muncietown ; thence to Indianapolis ; thence down the
valley of the west fork of the White river to its junction with the east
fork of said river, and thence by the most practicable route to Evans-
ville, on the Ohio river."
3. The extension of the Wabash & Erie Canal from the mouth of the
Tippecanoe river to Terre Haute.
4. The construction of a railroad from Madison to Indianapolis via
Columbus and certain other points named in the bill.
5. A macadamized road from New Albany to Vineennes over a
route including Fredericksburg, Salem and Paoli.
6. The construction of a railroad, or, if a railroad was found to be
inexpedient, a turnpike from Jeifersonville to Crawfordsville.
7. The improvement of the Wabash river from Vineennes to the
mouth of the stream.
8. A canal from the Wabash & Erie Canal near Fort Wayne to La'ke
Michigan.
The second of these projects was the one in which Madison county
was directlj' interested. Of the .'filO,000,000 appropriated to carry out
the intent of the bill, $3,500,000 were to be devoted to the construction
of the Central Canal. In the construction of this canal the board of
internal improvement commissioners was given the option of building it
upon the "lower, or Pipe creek route, if found most practicable and
conducive to the interests of the state," in which case a branch or
166 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
"feeder" was to be built to Muncietown, this branch to be of the same
size as the main canal. The commissioners selected the Pipe creek route
and as soon as the survey was made rival towns sprang up like magic
along the line of the proposed canal. The excitement was almost equal
to that which followed the discovery of gold in California, or when oil
was first struck in western Pennsylvania.
In 1838 work was commenced upon that portion of the canal running
through Madison county. According to old maps of the county, the
canal ran southward past Alexandria and through the western part of
Richland township, striking the little Killbuck creek not far from the
village of Prosperity, following that stream to the White river, and
thence down the river valley as provided in the act of 1836. The Muncie
branch was surveyed to unite with the main canal at Anderson.
Says Dillon, in his history of Indiana: "In fixing the mode of or-
ganizing a state board internal improvement, and in defining the duties
and powers of this board, the general assembly of 1836 committed
several material errors. On account of these errors, and for other
reasons, the internal improvement law of 1836 encountered a strong op-
position ; and this opposition was most ^ marked among the people of
those counties through which the lines of the proposed public works did
not pass."
This opposition, like Banquo's ghost, would not down, and by 1839
it became so insistent that work upon the internal improvements was
suspended. In his message to the legislature in December, 1839, Gov-
ernor Wallace summed up the situation as follows: "The failure to
procure funds, as we had a right to expect from the extensive sale of
bonds effected in the early part of the season, has led to great and un-
usual embarrassments, not only among the contractors and laborers, but
also among the people. The state has, in consequence, fallen largely in
debt to the former, and is without means of discharging it. * * * *
What shall be done with the public works? Shall they be abandoned
altogether? I hope not. In my opinion, the policy of the state, in the
present emergency, should be, first, to provide against the dilapidation
of those portions of the works left in an unfinished state, and, secondly,
as means can be procured, to finish some entirely, and complete others,
at least, to points where they may be rendered available or useful to the
country. ' '
The legislature of 1839 authorized the issue of $1,500,000 of state
treasury notes for the payment of the contractors and other public
creditors. These notes circulated as currency for a time at their face
value, but within two years they had depreciated from 40 to 50
per cent. At the close of the year 1841 over $8,000,000 had been ex-
pended on the internal improvements contemplated by the act of 1836,
and it was estimated that $20,000,000 more would be necessary to com-
plete the system according to the original designs. Public sentiment
was against any further issue of state bonds, or any increase in the
public debt to carry on the work, and the whole scheme collapsed.
Madison county, in common with others along the lines of the canals
and highways, suffered a severe blow. ]\Iost of the towms that had com-
menced their career with such a flourish of triumpets were abandoned
HISTORY OF JMADISON COUNTY 167
and it was several years before the business of the county resumed its
normal condition.
Several jears after the abandonment of the Central Canal by the
state, certain persons became interested in a proposition to complete
tliat portion of it situated between Anderson and Daleville and convert-
ing it into a hydraulic canal. After some talk the subject was dropped,
but shortly after the close of the Civil war it again came up for consid-
eration, with the result that on December 19, 1868, the Anderson
Hydraulic Company was organized with a capital stock of $64,000 sub-
scribed. Later the city of Anderson subscribed for .$20,000 of the stock
and issued bonds for the amount. N. C. McCullough was elected presi-
dent of the company; C. D. Thompson, secretarj'; William Crim, treas-
urer; N. C. ilcCullough, William Crim, Peter Suman, H. J. Blacklidge,
George Nichol, Samuel Hughel and James Hazlett, directors. Con-
tracts were let for reconstructing the canal on the original survey from
Anderson to Daleville, a distance of eight miles, but nearly seven years
passed before it was finished. On July 4, 1874, the water was turned
into the canal from the AVhite river opposite Daleville, but the banks
were unable to stand the pressure and gave way at so many places that
the water was shut off. After the breaks were repaired the water was
again turned on, but again the banks gave way. By this time the stock-
holders had reached the conclusion that the undertaking was doomed to
ultimate failure and refused to furnish any more money for experi-
menting, .$80,000 having already been expended with no show of prac-
tical results. The canal was afterward sold by the sheriff of Madison
county to Edward H. Rogers to satisfy certain judgments held by him
against the company. This was the last echo of the old Indiana Central
Canal that once buoyed up the hopes of the people of Madison county,
and they turned their attention to other plans of development.
While the states were turning their attention to the building of
canals as a means of developing their natural resources, a few miles of
railroad were built in the east, and thoughtful men foresaw that this
was the coming method of transportation. Many were skeptical, how-
ever, aud many were actualh- opposed to the introduction of this method
of traffic. About 1830 some young men of Lancaster, Ohio, asked the
school board to permit them to use the schoolhouse for the discussion of
the railroad question. To this request the board replied as follows :
"You are welcome to the use of the school house to debate all proper
questions in, but such things as railroads and telegraphs are impossi-
bilities and rank infidelity. 'There is nothing in the Word of God about
them. If God had designed that Plis intelligent creatures should travel
at the frightful speed of fifteen miles an hour, by steam. He would
clearly have foretold it through His holy prophets. It is a device of
Satan to lead immortal souls down to hell."
A few years after the abandonment of the Indiana Central Canal, a
company was organized to build a railroad from Indianapolis to Belle-
fontaine, Ohio. As this line was to pass through Madison county public
interest was aroused, and, while the opposition was not so pronounced
as that of the Lancaster school board, there were a few pessimistic indi-
viduals who expressed their doubts as to the advisability of spending
168 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
time and money in the construction of railroad, the disadvantages of
which might be greater than the advantages. One prominent citizen of
Anderson objected to the road running through the town, because the
cars would ' ' run over and kill the children. ' ' Another insisted that the
road would have to be operated at loss, for the reason that "one train
could haul all the produce of the county for twenty years at one load. ' '
Notwithstanding such objections, a large majority of the people were
in favor of the road and did everything in their power to encourage its
construction. In the light of modern progress, the objections of 1840
seem puerile in the extreme. And although the holy prophets failed to
foretell a ' ' frightful speed of fifteen miles an hour, " it is no uncommon
occurrence for the railway train of the present day to travel at a rate
four times that great.
At the June session of the Madison county commissioners in 1849 it
was "Ordered that the County Commissioners, for and on behalf of the
county of Madison, take and subscribe the sum of $15,500, which, includ-
ing the sum of $500 heretofore subscribed, makes $16,000, as stock in
the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine Railroad Company, to be paid in four
equal annual installments, and to be expended within the county of
Madison."
The records do not show what became of the stock subscribed for by
the county, nor can any of the old settlers remember what disposition
was made of it. That the stock was issued to the commissioners is shown
by the following letter fromO. H. Smith, author of "Early Reminis-
cences of Indiana," and at one time United States senator, but in 1849
president of the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine Railroad Company:
Office I. & B. R. R. Co.
Indianapolis, Sept. 4, 1849.
To the Board of County Commissioners of the Coimty of Madison:
Gentlemen :— The board of directors of the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine
Railroad Company, in session this day, have adopted the following
resolution :
"On motion by Mr. "Williams: Resolved, That the board do hereby
accept the subscription of stock to the company of $15,500 by the board
of county commissioners of the county of Madison, upon the terms of
said subscription, and that the president be directed to cause the sub-
scription to be entered on the books of the company, and notify said
board thereof, and issue to the county of Madison a certificate of stock
for the proper number of shares."
You are therefore hereby notified that the subscription aforesaid has
been entered on the books of the company, and a certificate for 620
shares of stock has been accordingly issued and is herein enclosed.
Witness the signature of the president and secretary and seal of the
company, the day and year above written.
0. H. Smith,
Attest : Jas. G. Jordan, Prest.
Secy.
In addition to this subscription by the county, many of the citizens
showed their faith in the enterprise by taking stock in the company and
HISTORY OF jVIADISON COUNTY 169
work on the road was prosecuted with vigor. On July 4, 1851, the first
railroad train that ever ran into Anderson — an excursion train from
Indianapolis — came in over this road. The locomotive was one of the
old-fashioned "wood burners," with a smoke stack shaped like a funnel,
and the train consisted of three unvarnished coaches, with plain wooden
seats, quite unlike the upholstered seats of the present day coaches.
News of the excursion had spread over the surrounding country and for
two days before the scheduled time for its arrival curious sight-seers
were seen coming into Anderson, some of .them from points several miles
distant, to see the curiosity of coaches drawn over rails by a steam,
engine. Hotels and boarding houses were taxed to their utmost capacity
and near the wagon bridge over the White river, north of town, a camp
was established by those who were unable to find better accommodations.
Buildings in the town were decorated with flags and bunting and every
thing po*>sible was done to make July 4th a red letter day in the city's
calendar. As the hour for tlie arrival of the train approached a number
of people, unable to restrain their impatience, walked some two miles
down the track toward Indianapolis in Order to catch an early view of
the excursion. When the train came in sight the engineer sounded a
few shrill blasts from the whistle as welcome. Consternation reigned
among the curious sight-seers and they set out with more speed than
grace for the "tall timber" in search of a place of safety. It is said
that one man never stopped running until he reached Anderson. After
the train had been inspected, citizens and excursionists joined in an
appropriate celebration of the anniversary of national independence.
In 1852 the road was completed through the county and a station
was established at Anderson, the first building erected by the company
standing near the present depot and passenger station. Philip Siddall
was the first ticket and freight agent, and also the first telegraph
operator in Anderson. He was a man of pleasing personality, who
quickly made friends and incidentally increased the business of both the
railroad and telegraph companies. In due time the road was completed
to Bellefontaine and subsequently to Cleveland, Ohio, when it became
known as the "Bee Line." It is now operated by the New York Central
Railroad Company and is known as the Cleveland division of the Big
Four Railway System. Through Madison county the line is double-
tracked, with stations at Ingalls, Pendleton, Anderson and Chesterfield.
It is one of the leading railway lines of the Middle West and in connec-
tion with the old Indianapolis & St. Louis Railroad forms a popular
route from the region of the great lakes to the southwest.
The second railroad to enter Madison county was the Cincinnati &
Chicago Air Line — now a branch of the Pennsylvania System and
usually called the Pan Handle. It enters the county about eight miles
north of the southeast corner and follows a northwesterly direction
through Anderson, Florida, Frankton and Elwood, leaving the county
on the west at the northwest corner of Pipe Creek township. This road
was projected about the same time as the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine,
but was not completed through Madison county until about three years
later. Soon after the Columbus, Piqua & Indianapolis railroad was
finished the company, seeing that Chicago was rapidly becoming a city
170
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of importance to the commercial world, decided upon a line from Rich-
mond to Chicago. During the j'ears 1850-51 the road was built from
Richmond to Hagerstown, a distance of sixteen miles, and the next year
it was finished as far as Newcastle. Little progress was made during the
next three years, but early in the summer of 1855 the line was completed
as far as Anderson. On July 4, 1855 — just four years after the first
train came into that town over the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine — an
excursion train of four coaches came up from Richmond.
Again the town of Anderson was in gala attire, the people coming
from all directions to join in the celebration. Perhaps the curiosity was
not so great as on the former occasion, but there were still citizens of
Madison county who had not yet seen a railroad train and they were
Pennsylvania R. R. Station
very much in evidence. Speech-making, wrestling matches and other
athletic contests constituted the principal features of the celebration
that followed the arrival of the excursion, music being furnished by a
"sheepskin band," composed of a bass drum, snare drum and a fife.
The engine that drew the excursion train was not much larger than one
of the sixteen horse-power traction engines of the present day used for
running threshing machines. In the earh' days of railroading in Indi-
ana the locomotives were named instead of being numbered, and nearly
ever}' town or cit.y through which the Cincinnati & Chicago Air Line
passed was anxious to have an engine named after it. The officials of
the road, glad to please the people, named several of their locomotives
after the county seats along the line. Old residents still recall the
"Logansport," the "Anderson," the "Newcastle," the "Chicago" and
other engines that in their day were considered magnificent pieces of
machinery. Then there were the "Swinett," a rather diminutive affair,
the first engine on the road, with John Smock as the first engineer, her
HISTORY OF iL\DISON COUNTY 171
•
twin, the "Julia Dean" the "S. Fosdick," which was named after one
of the ofBeials of the railroad company, and last but not least the
"Hoosier," whose whistle could be heard for miles. It used to be said
that when Mark Smith, the engineer of the Hoosier, would make that
whistle do its best he could shake the beech nuts off the trees in the woods
along the road.
The first depot and passenger station of the Cincinnati & Chicago
Air Line in Anderson stood at the north end of Main street, near the
river. It was near this old station that the locomotive •"Anderson"' came
to grief in the year 1860. While the engineer was eating a lunch in
DehoritT.-"s restaurant opposite the depot, the boiler exploded with ter-
rific force, throwing Iragments ia everj- direction. Fortunately no one
was hurt, but the explosion ended the career of one of the favorite
engines on the road.
Shortly after the close of the Civil war the Grand Rapids, Wabash &
Cincinnati Railroad Company was organized and in 1869 made a prop-
osition to the citizens of Anderson. Monroe and Van Buren township,
of Madison countj-. that if certain aid was extended a road would be
built from White Pigeon. Jilichigan. to Anderson. About the same time
the Lafayette. ^Muncie & Bloomington Railroad Company made a similar
proposition and at a special session on October 12. 1869, the county
commissioners accepted a petition relating to the matter and ordered
"that an election be held on ^^londaj'. November 15, 1869, for the pur-
pose of taking a vote upon the question of appropriating .?14;7,000, by
Madison county, to aid in the construction of the roads above named."
At the election the proposition was carried by a substantial majority,
the commissioners levied a tax in accordance with the vote, and prepara-
tions were made to begin work on the roads. Before anj-thing was done,
however, a number of citizens of the cotinty joined in bringing a suit to
enjoin the collection of the tax and after several years of litigation the
supreme court decided against the appropriation. The money already
collected under the levy was returned to the taxpayers by the county
treasurer.
Five years later, in 1874, the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Rail-
road Company — the succfesor of the Grand Rapids, Wabash & Cincin-'
nati— came forward with a proposition to complete the road to Ander-
son, provided sufficient encouragement was offered. At the March term
in 1874. the commissioners ordered an election in Anderson township
for May 2nd (the first Saturday; for the purpose of taking a vote upon
the question of donating -$28,000 to aid in the construction of the road.
At the same time elections were held in the townships of Monroe, Boone
and Van Buren, the donations asked for in these townships being
$24,000 in Monroe. .4;7.50<5 in Boone, and .*8.000 in Van Buren. Monroe
township voted in favor of the proposition, but in Van Buren it was
defeated by a vote of 120 to 90. In Boone township the first returns
indicated that the proposition had carried, but. tipon c-omplaint that a
number of illegal votes had been cast, a recount was ordered and the
donation was defeated. Another election was ordered to be held in
Van Buren township on December 15, 1874, and as a special inducement
to the voters it was " " Provided that the said Cincinnati, Wabash & Mich-
172 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
igan Railroad makes a station within one-fourth of a mile of Lot No. 1,
in the town or village of Summitville, in said Van Buren township."
Again the proposition was defeated in that township, which reconsidered
at a later date, however, and work was commenced upon the road be-
tween Wabash and Anderson. It was completed to the latter city in the
spring of 1876, giving Anderson three railroad lines.
It was the orginal intention of the railroad company to complete the
road to Louisville, Kentucky, but after Anderson was reached neai-ly
fifteen years elapsed before anything was done toward the building of
the southern extension. Work on that portion of the road was begun
in 1890 and was pushed with such despatch that in May, 1891, the com-
pany published the announcement that the road was open for business
from Bentbn Harbor, Michigan, to Louisville, Kentucky. From North
Vernon, Indiana, this road uses the tracks, of the Baltimore & Ohio
Southwestern to Louisville. Soon after the line was finished it passed
to the control of the Big Four Railroad System and is now known as the
Michigan division of the Big Four. Over thirty miles of the main track
are in Madison county and the stations in the county are Summitville,
Alexandria, Linwood, Anderson, Alliance, Emporia and Markleville.
The first station in Anderson erected by this company stood on the east
side of the track between Fifth and Sixth streets. It was destroyed by
fire and was never rebuilt, the road having in the meantime been taken
over by the Big Four.
The history of the Lafayette, Muncie & Bloomington Railroad is not
materially different from that of the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan.
After several futile efforts, aid was finally extended to the company and
the road was completed through Madison coixnty in 1875-76. Soon after
it went into operation it became a part of the Lake Erie & Western Rail-
road System, of which Calvin S. Brice, of Ohio, was then president.
Mr. Brice was a good financier, understood railroad building, was ambi-
tious and anxious to build up a great system of transportation. A good
story is told of a bout between him and the late Commodore Vanderbilt,
and while it is not directly connected with Madison county history it
shows the character of the man who at one time dominated one of the
county's leading lines of railway. Brice and his coterie built a line of
railroad through northern Indiana to parallel the Lake Shore & Michi-
gan Southern, which was controlled by the Vanderbilt interests. After
the road was finished it was offered to Vanderbilt, in order that he might
prevent competition. When the price was named it seemed to the great
railroad king to be prohibitive and he replied : ' ' Why, Brice, I wouldn 't
pay that for your old road if it was nickel plated." Notwithstanding
this positive refusal, Brice soon made competition so keen that the old
commodore was glad to purchase the road at the figure named. It was
in this way that the "Nickel Plate" got its name. After Mr. Brice 's
death the Lake Erie & Western became a part of the New York Central
System.
A little over fifteen miles of the main track of this road is in Madison
county. The line crosses the eastern boundary about ten miles south of
the northeast corner and runs west through Alexandria, Orestes, Dundee
and Elwood into Tipton county.
I
I
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 173
The last railroad to be constructed through Madison county, even
though it be considered of less importance than the others, has a more
tumultuous history than any of them. In the spring of 1871 seven men
met in Lebanon, Indiana, and started a movement for the construction
of the Anderson, Lebanon & St. Louis Railroad. At the September term
of the commissioners' court of Madison county. Colonel Thomas N. Stil-
well, the president of the company, came forward with a petition signed
by many prominent citizens and taxpayers of the county, asking the
board to order an election in Anderson township for October 21, 1871,
for the purpose of allowing the voters an opportunity to express their
views upon the question of appropriating money to aid in the construc-
tion of the road. At the same session a petition was also presented to
the board bj' the people of Stony Creek township, asking that an elec-
tion be held in that township to vote on the proposition of levying a tax
of 20 per cent on the property of the township for the benefit of the
enterprise. Both elections were held on the same day and in each town-
ship a majority of the voters expressed themselves as being in favor of
extending the assistance asked for, though many of the citizens after-
ward refused to pay the tax.
This refusal embarrassed the railroad companj' and meetings were
held at various points along the line of the proposed road to arouse in-
terest and secure individual subscriptions. Stock was also sold at
$50 a share and some money was realized by this method. On April
17, 1873, the first shovelful of earth was cast at Anderson by President
Stilwell and the construction of the Anderson, Lebanon & St. Louis
Railroad was begun. Work proceeded slowly and it was not until
December 11, 1875, that the first spike was driven at Anderson at 2:30
p. m. President Zion, who had succeeded Colonel Stilwell, made a
speech congratulating the people upon the prospects of a speedy com-
pletion of the road. Mayor Brown made a brief response to ]\Ir. Zion's
address, after which the first rail was laid in place and Mr. Zion drove
the first spike, remarking at the time that it gave him intense pleasure.
At the time the road was commenced the country was in the thi-oes
of the hard times resulting from the panic of 1873, and nearly two j'ears
passed between the time tMte first rail was laid at Anderson and the com-
pletion of the road to Noble-sville, about twenty miles west. Then the
company advertised the "First Grand Sunday School Picnic and excur-
sion from Xoblesville to Anderson, over the Anderson, Lebanon &
St. Louis Railroad, Thursday, June 14, 1877." In the meantime the
road had been thrown into the liands of a receiver and was sold by the
United States marshal at Indianapolis on April 10, 1877, when it was
purchased by Thomas Piatt, president of the American Express Com-
pany, for $40,000. At that time the bonded indebtedness of the company
was nearly $300,000, and prefen-ed claims, receiver's certificates, etc.,
aggregated about $40,000 more.
Mr. Piatt, soon after his purchase, turned the road over to Harry
Crawford, of Chicago, who reorganized the company, changed the name
of the road to the Cleveland, Indiana & St. Louis Railroad, and began the
work of extending the line westward from Noblesville, the objective
point being Paris, Illinois, where connections could be made to St. Louis
174 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and other western cities. When Lebanon was reached there was another
delay for want of ready money, but in course of time the track was com-
pleted to Waveland, in the southwest comer of JMontgomerj' county.
From Waveland the trains of the new company used the tracks of the
Vandalia to Sand Creek (twenty-two miles) and from Sand Creek the
road was completed to Brazil, a distance of twelve miles. About the
same time the road was extended eastward from Anderson to Muncie,
the present eastern terminal.
For many years the old Anderson, Lebanon & St. Louis Railroad was
a standing joke among the newspaper humorists of the state. It is now
known as the Central Indiana, and since the failure of natural gas in the
cities near its eastern terminus is earning dividends in the transporta-
tion of coal to supply fuel to man}- of the factories established in that
region during the period when natural gas was abundant.
Just before the receiver's sale of the roa,d in April, 1877, the com-
pany owned two locomotives, both of which were attached by the sheriff
of Madison count}' and chained to the track to satisfy a judgment. The
present company owns eleven locomotives and sufficient other rolling
stock to handle the traffic. The only stations on this road in Madison
county are Anderson and Lapel, though at one time Johnson's Crossing
and Graber's Station were stopping points.
In 1892 the Anderson belt railroad was built by a number of local
capitalists and manufacturers for the purpose of providing better ship-
ping facilities for the various manufacturing concerns of the city. This
road connects with each of the main lines and makes Anderson one of
the best shipping points in the state.
An improvement of purely local interest, but one that might be
classed as internal improvements, is the ditches that have been con-
structed in the county for the purpose of reclaiming the swamp lands
and bringing them under cultivation. The first drains in the county
were constructed by voluntary associations formed by those whose inter-
ests in the draining of a certain district were mutual. This method was
found to be unsatisfactory, for the reason that it often happened some
land owner, whose farm would be benefited by the ditch, would refuse
to pay anything toward its construction, and there was no way by which
he could be forced to pay a just share, in proportion to benefits received.
On March 10, 1873, Governor Hendricks approved an act providing
for the organization of ditch associations, defining their duties and
powers, etc. This law, while an improvement over the old voluntary
association method, was unsatisfactory, as it provided no way to prevent
any one opposed to the construction of a ditch from carrj'ing out his
opposition, effectively and interposing an obstacle that could not be over-
come by those in favor of it. A supplementary act gave the county com-
missioners power to order the construction of a ditch, upon petition of
a given number of those whose lands would be benefited thereby, and to
levy assessments in proportion to the benefits derived. This system was
better than any that had preceded it and many of the ditches in Madison
county were constructed under its provisions. As mile after mile of
drain was built, the objectors began to see the advantages arising from
such a course and the opposition gradually became weaker, until today
T
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
175
it would be almost impossible to find a land owner in the county who is
not in favor of a thorough going drainage system.
By the act of April S, 1881. the appointment of a drainage commis-
sioner for each county was authorized, and provisions made for the
hearing of petitions by the circuit court. This shortened the process
somewhat, as in the former method, when the commissioners ordered a
diteli, an appeal could be taken to the circuit court, thus delaying the
construction of a needed improvement. By presenting the petition
directly to the court the appeal and delay are forestalled. * Recent legis-
latures have passed numerous acts regarding the drainage and reclama-
tion of swamp lands, and since the beginning of the present century
many of the old ditches of Madison county have been reopened and new
ones built, until at the present time it is estimated that there are eight
hundred miles of main ditch in the county. The expense has been enor-
SllSiiiai
Union Building, Anderson
mous but has been more than offset by the increase in the output of the
farms and the value of agricultural lands.
One internal improvement that has been an important factor in add-
ing to the prestige of Madison county as a commercial and industrial
center is the system of electric railways now operated by the Union
Traction Company. The first dream of an interurban railroad in this
section of the country originated in the mind of Samuel T. Bronnenberg,
of Anderson, about 1890. At that time the industrial activity due to
natural gas was at its height and Anderson and Alexandria were both
spreading out over new territory. When the Anderson street car lines
were extended across the river to North Anderson, Mr. Bronnenberg
conceived the idea of connecting the two cities with a line of electric
railway. His idea was to secure a strip of land four hundred feet in
width, extending from Anderson to Alexandria, through the center of
176 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
which was to be a boulevard one hundred feet in width, over which the
railway would run. On either side the lands were to be beautified and
divided into residence lots, making an ideal suburban locality. He
obtained the greater portion of the right of way and had interested some
outside capital in the project, when the hard times of 1893 set in, which
put an end to the undertaking.
About this time Noah Clodfelter, of Crawfordsville, Indiana, began
the construction of an electric line from Marion to Indianapolis. A con-
siderable portion of the road bed was graded and power houses built
along the line, when the enterprise was overtaken by financial disaster
and abandoned.
Charles L. Henry, one of the large stockholders in the Anderson
Street Railway Company, then undertook the construction of a line
from Anderson to Alexandria. This was the beginning of the Union
Traction Company, which was incorporated on Septembr 3, 1897, by
Charles L. Henry, Philip Matter, John L. Forkner, Ellis C. Carpenter
and James A. Van Osdol. The line running from Anderson to Alex-
andria was continued north to Summitville ; a line was built from
Alexandria to Elwood; the street railway properties in Anderson and
Elwood were purchased by the company, and a little later the Marion
street railway property was purchased, including an interurban line
from Marion to Summitville. On June 27, 1899, the compan.y, with all
its holdings, was consolidated with the jMuncie, Anderson & Indianap-
olis Street Railroad Company, which owned the local street railway lines
in Muncie and the right of way for an electric line from Muncie to
Indianapolis.
The corporation formed by that consolidation took the name of the
Union Traction Company of Indiana. The line from Muncie to Indi-
anapolis, via Anderson, was constructed, and since then the company
has acquired, by construction, consolidation and leases, enough lines to
bring the total up to 370 miles of interurban railway, connecting the
leading cities of what was formerlj' the gas belt with the city of
Indianapolis, and fifty miles of city railway in the various cities where
the company operates. Lines radiating from Indianapolis run to Ander-
son, Muncie, Winchester, Union City, Hartford City, Bluffton, Elwood,
Alexandria, Marion, Wabash, Peru, Logansport, Kokomo, Tipton,
Noblesville and Newcastle, and the intervening towns and villages.
The principal offices of the company, as well as the main power gen-
erating plant and car shops, are located in Anderson, where, according
to the last report of the state bureau of inspection, 210 people are em-
ployed in various capacities connected with the company. The principal
officers of the company are as follows: Arthur W. Bradj-, president;
William H. Forse, secretary and treasurer; H. A. NichoU, general
manager ; Walter Shroyer, auditor ; J. A. Van Osdol, general attorney ;
C. A. Baldwin, superintendent of transportation; F. D. Norviel, general
passenger and freight agent. The company has recently purchased
ground at the corner of Twelfth and Meridian streets, in the city of
Anderson, where it is intended to erect a new passenger and freight
station in the near future.
CHAPTER XI
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
COCNTY SeMIVAKY — PuBLIC SCHOOLS OP AXDEBSON" — SCHOOLS OF OtHEB
Cities and Towns — Vall-e of School Peopebty — Statlstics —
COL'NTY SUPERIXTEN'DENTS FlKST GRADED SCHOOL FBv\>.KLIN 'S
Private School — Anderson Normal Unh'ersity — Business Col-
lege— Parochial Schools — The Press — Strf;ggles of the Eablt
Newspaper — The First Daily — IIardesty's AVindow Shuttee
Campaign — Present Day Newspapers — Public Libraries — School
Libraries
In the chapters on Township Historj- will be found accounts of the
early schools in the rural districts, with statistics showing the condition
of the public schools in each township at the present time. The legisla-
ture of 1828 passed an act providing for the establishment of county
seminaries in the several counties of the state at public expense, but
nearly twenty years elapsed before such an institution was founded in
Madison county. In 1849 a two-story brick building was erected on the
northeast comer of Main and Twelfth streets, in the town of Anderson,
for a county seminarj'. This building was forty feet square, with a hall
running east and west through the center. The lot upon which it stood
was donated "for school purposes" by Andrew Jackson and Robert N.
Williams, two citizens who believed in education. School was taught in
this building until it was destroyed by fire in 18-56.
Soon after the burning of the old seminar}-, a public school building
was erected upon the site. It was used for more than thirty years, but
was torn down in 1888 to make room for the present ilain Street sehooL
The second public school building in Anderson ''known as the f?econd
Ward school^ was erected in 18G8 at the comer of Seventh and Milton
streets, but was torn down in 189-5 to make way for the present commodi-
ous building that occupies the site. In the meantime Anderson had been
incorporated as a city in 1865 and a high school had been organized in
187-3. After the erection of the Main street building in 1888 it was used
for the high school until the Lincoln building was erected in 1890, at a
cost of $-39,000, when the high school was removed to the new building.
Two buildings were erected in 1891 — the Park place building, which
cost .$9,000. and the Central Avenue school, located on Central avenue
between Twentieth and Twenty-first streets, which cost $20,000. In 1892
the Hazelwood building was erected at a cost of -$20,000, and the next
year the Columbia school, at the comer of Ninth and Madison, was
erected at a cost of $22,500. In 1894 the building at the comer of
TtLI— u
177
178
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Seventh and Delaware streets was erected at a cost of $24,000. The
"Washington school, situated on Columbus avenue, between Twenty-third
and Twenty-fourth streets, was established in 1896 by the erection of a
building that cost $37,000, and in 1897 the Shadeland school, a frame
building of five rooms, was built at a cost of $3,000. The first high school
building was erected in 1898. It is situated immediately south of the
Lincoln building and is now called the grammar school.
Just after noon on December 18, 1901, fire was discovered in the
basement of the Lincoln building. Through the ventilating ducts the
flames soon found their way to all parts of the structure. The fire de-
partment responded promptly, but the fire was not under control until
eleven o'clock that night, when the building was reduced to ashes. It
was immediately rebuilt.
The present high school building was erected in 1910 at a cost of
Anderson High School
$150,000. It is centrally located, on Lincoln street, between Twelfth
and Thirteenth streets, and is considered by educators to be one of the
best high school edifices in the state. In the building is a large audi-
torium for public meetings, commencement exercises, etc. The school
is also equipped with a gymnasium and swimming pool. The course of
study includes the usual high school branches, manual training in wood
and iron work for the boys, cooking and sewing for the girls, and kindred
subjects. The display of this school at the ' ' Made in Anderson ' ' exhibit
in June, 1913, attracted a great deal of attention, especially the speci-
mens of pattern making and needlework from the manual training de-
partments. The school is open to students from all parts of the county.
Those who have completed the course of study in the towTiship schools
have their tuition paid from the township funds and all others pay a
small tuition fee. In connection with the high school is a free night
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 179
school, in which is taught the ordinary school branches, shorthand,
machine drawing, commercial chemistry, shop practice, pattern making,
sewing, cookery, etc. The first high school class, consisting of four
young ladies, was graduated in 1876. In 1912-13 there were 626
students enrolled in the Anderson high school. The school board that
ordered the erection of the present magnificent high school was com-
posed of Willis S. Ellis, F. A. Walker and W. B. Campbell.
The present members of the school board of Anderson are H. E.
Jones, Austin Retherford and G. E. Nichol. Among those who have
been prominently identified with the public school system of Anderson
in the past may be mentioned Charles Hewett, T. C. Davis, W. R.
Myers, Joseph Franklin, Dr. C. S. Burr, S. M. Keltner, C. W. Prather,
George Quick, W. T. Durbin, N. C. McCullough, A. J. Dipboye and
J. S. Carr, all of whom served either on the board of education or as
superintendent of the schools. The present superintendent is James
B. Pearcy.
High School at Alexandkia
In 1913 the city of Anderson had eleven public school houses, ten
of which were of modern hrick construction, the value of buildings and
grounds being estimated at $544,000. Of the 109 teachers employed in
the city schools, twenty-three are in the high school.
In 1876 the town of Elwood had but one school building and
employed four teachers. With the discovery of natural gas and the
consequent increase in population the educational facilities were made
to keep pace, until in 1913 the city had eight public school buildings,
viz : High School, Linwoood, Central, Osborne, Washington, Edge-
wood, North C street, and a small frame building in one of the out-
skirts. Five of these buildings are of brick and three are frame. The
total value of grounds and buildings was $210,000. Fifty-seven teach-
ers were employed during the school year of 1912-13, nine of whom
were in the commissioned high school. It is no exaggeration to say that
no city of its size in the state offers better educational advantages to
its young people than Elwood.
Alexandria has four public school buildings, known as the Old Cen-
tral, the Clark, the Tomlinson and the High School. The three last
180
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
named are of modem construction and compare favorably with public
schoolhouses anywhere, costing over $20,000 each. The corps of teach-
ers in the Alexandria public schools in 1912-13 numbered twenty-seven,
six of whom were employed in the high school grades. The value of all
school property in the city was $49,300.
The first schoolhouse in Pendleton stood on the east side of the Big
Four Railroad, on what is now known as Tariff street. In 1864 the
brick building long known as the Pendleton Academy was erected on
the site of the second schoolhouse and was for many years the only
public school in the town. Pendleton now has two modern brick build-
ings— the High School, at the corner of East and High streets, and the
West building, at the corner of Taylor and West. In 1913 a large
addition was made to the high school building, so that the value of all
school property is approximately $45,000. Thirteen teachers were
Public School, Lapel
employed in the Pendleton schools during the school year of 1912-13,
and of these four were engaged in high school work.
Siunmitville has but one school building, which was recently erected
at a cost of $22,500. Nine teachers are employed, three of whom are
in the commissioned high school. The public school building at Lapel
cost $18,000 and the one at Frankton cost $5,000. Eight teachers are
employed at Lapel and seven at Frankton, and in both towns there are
commissioned high schools.
Thus it will be seen that in the seven principal cities and incor-
porated towns there are twenty-eight public school buildings, valued at
$893,800. The incorporated towns of Chesterfield and Markleville have
no separate boards of education and their schools are treated in con-
nection with Union and Adams townships, , respectively. In each of
the seven large cities and towns is a commissioned high school. The
total number of teachers employed in the county during the school year
of 1912-13 was 375, of whom 230 were employed in the cities and towns
and 145 in the country schools. The value of all real estate and build-
ings owned by the county for school purposes was $1,118,300 and the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 181
value of maps and other apparatus was estimated at $23,100. The
total amount paid in teachers' salaries during the last school year was
$228,184.38.
The office of county superintendent was created by the legislature
of 1873. Since that time the county superintendents of the Madison
county schools, with the year in which each took office, have been as
follows: Joseph Franklin, 1873; R. I. Hamilton, 1875; William M.
Groan, 1881 ; Dale J. Crittenberger, 1884 ; Willis S. EUis, 1887 ; Isaac
V. Busby, 1893 ; Manson U. Johnson, 1894 ; Lawrence McTuman, 1897 ;
James W. Frazier, 1902. Mr. Frazier was first appointed upon the
resignation of Mr. McTuman and has since been twice reelected. His
present term expires in 1917.
The first graded county school in the county was taught by W. M.
Croan at a schoolhouse in Richland township known as "College Cor-
ner," and it was in this house that the first "graduating" exercises in
the country schools of the county were held. In 1912-13 the average
length of term in the various schools of the county was 145 days. At
the close of the term there were 177 graduates in the commissioned high
schools and 529 in the township schools.
Madison county has never boasted a college or higher institution of
learning. The law establishing the state university provided that
each county in the state should be entitled to appont two students
annually, whose tuition should be free. Enoch M. Jackson, a son of
Andrew Jack.son, and Augustus M. Williams, son of Robert N. Wil-
liams, were the first from Madison county to become graduates of the
University of Indiana, the former entering the institution in 1845 and
the latter in 1846.
Joseph Franklin, who had charge of the one public school in Ander-
son during the period from 1862 to 1865, erected a frame building on
the west side of Delaware street between Eleventh and Twelfth streets
in 1868 and there conducted a private graded school for several years,
Miss Genevieve Robinson having charge of the lower grades.
On August 29, 1896, the Anderson Normal University, a private
institution founded by W. M. Croan, was opened in the second and
third stories of the Opera House block at the northeast corner of Main
and Eleventh streets, in the city of Anderson. The institution started
off in a rather pretentious manner, as may be seen by the following
faculty and list of subjects to be taught: W. M. Croan, president;
George H. Colbert, higher mathematics and astronomy ; J. C. Black,
pedagogy; J. P. Mullin, language; Lottie N. Mullin, literature; J. Good-
win Perkins, principal commercial department; E. E. Copple, geography
and mathematics; W. C. Rousch, chemistry and pharmacy; Ellsworth
L. McCain, penmanship; Charles Nelson, musical director; Laura Quick,
elocution and delsarte ; Grace S. Langell, voice culture ; James F.
Wysong, conductor of band and orchestra ; Louis J. Weichman, short-
hand and typewriting ; Kenneth M. Burr, military science ; John E.
Wiley, law ; Margaret Beachley, drawing and fine art. No appeal to
the general public for financial aid was made, the aim of the founder
being to make the school self sustaining. The expenses, however, of
maintaining such an institution were greater than the income and after
182 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
a short and somewhat precarious career it succumbed to the inevitable.
The Anderson Business College, located on the third floor of the
Decker building at the southwest corner of Teatli and Meridian streets,
was formed in 190'4, by the purchase and consolidation of the Bliss Busi-
ness University and the Anderson Business School, two institutions that
had been previously established. It is now a branch of the Indiana
Business College, which maintains schools of a commercial character in
thirteen of the principal cities of the state. The Anderson school is
under the management of Prof. J. Phillips.
Parochial schools are maintained by the Catholic church at Anderson,
Alexandria and Elwood. The first pai'ochial school at Anderson was
taught in '1858 by Mrs. Maggie Ryan. After the completion of the
present Catholic church the old edifice was converted into a schoolhouse
and the school is in charge of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. At Elwood
St. Joseph's parish has recently erected a school building at a cost of
some $50,000. It is one of the most modern schoolhouses in the county
and an ornament to the city of Elw.ood.
The Press
"As a factor in the educational development of any community the
newspaper plays an important part. The first newspaper published in
the county was the Federal Union, which was started in 1834 by T. J.
Langdon, said to have been the oldest printer in Anderson. He was
assisted by Charles D. Henderson in the editorial work, but after a few
months the paper was suspended. Shortly after that Charles D.
Henderson began the publication of the Western Telegraph and was
fortunate enough to secure some of the legal printing, which enabled
him to continue in business until about 1838, when he was forced to
suspend the publication.
In 1840 Dr. Thomas Sims established the Atheneum, which, as its
name indicates, was devoted to literature and the sciences, rather than
to the news of the day. Dr. Sims was a clever writer and something of
an enthusiast on the subject of phrenology. After a time the public
tired of his dissertations upon this and kindred subjects and the
Atheneum died for want of patronage.
Joseph G. Jones w^as the next journalistic knight to enter the lists
in Madison county, which he did soon after Dr. Sims retired from the
field by the establishment of the Whig Eagle. This paper was an ardent
supporter of the principles of the Whig party and in the campaign of
1844 carried the banner of Henry Clay. In the spring of 1846 Mr.
Jones removed his printing office to Indianapolis, leaving Madison
county without a newspaper until Gardner Goldsmith began the publi-
cation of the Madison County Journal, which was also an exponent of
"Whig principles. The existence of this paper was brief.
John Q. and William L. Howell, who had been running a paper in
Marion, Indiana, removed their office to Anderson in 1848 and com-
menced the publication of the True Democrat. Peter II. Lemon was
employed as editor and in 1849 the paper was purchased by Jlr. Lemon
and Dr. Townsend Ryan, who changed the name to the Wecllij Demo-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 183
crat. It was an unswerving advocate of Democratic principles, and as
that party was then in power in the county, it was a surprise to many
that the paper was suspended in 1850. Mr. Lemon said it "died of a
broken heart."
Not long after the suspension of the Democrat Dr. James W. Men-
denhall, who has been described as "a young man of some ability but
of little experience," commenced the publication of the Anderson
Gazette. Under Mendenhall's management it was neutral in polities,
but it was purchased by J. F. Henry, who made it a Democratic organ.
Henry was assisted in the editorial work by Colonel Thomas N. Stilwell.
About 1855 it passed into the hands of Charles I. Barker and soon after-
ward expired.
About this time W. H. H. Lewis founded the Madison County
Republican, a paper which advocated the doctrines of the old Whig
party and later the R-epublican party. Subsequently the name was
changed to the Central Indianian, with John Patterson as editor, but it
went the way of its predecessors.
Thomas W. and Ira H. Cook began the publication of the Democratic
Standard in 1855. On January 1, 1858, Thomas W. Cook retired from
the paper, having sold it to Charles I. Barker, who conducted it until
1863, when he disposed of it to Calvin C. Moricle, of White county,
Indiana. Mr. Moricle edited and published the paper for about one
year, when he was succeeded by 0. C. Willitts. Afterward, F. M.
Randall published the paper for a short time, with E. V. Long as
editor, when the propert.y was purchased by W. E. Cook and A. S.
McCallister. These gentlemen published the Standard until the fall
of 1866, when they sold it to Fleming T. Luse, of Warsaw, Indiana.
Mr. Luse continued the publication of the paper until it was consolidated
with the Anderson Democrat, under the editorial management of M. Y.
Todysman, when the name Standard disappeared. Mr. Todysman sold
the Democrat to William R. Brownlee in the fall of 1877. Brownlee
in turn sold it to Glasco Brothers, which resulted in the consolidation
of the paper with the Renew, under the name of the Review-Democrat.
It was not long, however, until the first part of the name was dropped
and the paper continued as the Democrat.
In 1863, in the midst of the Civil war, H. J. Brown launched the
Loyal American as the organ of the Republican party in Madison
county. He remained as editor and publisher until in 1865, when he
was appointed postmaster at Anderson. John C. Hanson then took
charge and issued a few numbers, when the publication was suspended.
The Democracy of Fleming T. Luse, who purchased the Standard in
1866, was not of the type to suit the radical leaders of his party. As a
result of this condition a stock company was formed in 1867 and the
Anderson Plain Dealer appeared. Under the editorial management
of Edwin P. Schlater and W. E. Cook it soon came to be recognized as
the party organ in the county. In 1868 George D. Farrar, of Green-
ville, Ohio, purchased the Plain Dealer and conducted it until 1871,
when he sold it to W^illiam C. Fleming. ]Mr. Fleming published the
paper until 1873, when he sold to Charles L. Zahm, who published it
but a short time, when he was siicceeded by Todysman & Pyle. Thomp-
son & Mvers also conducted the Plain Dealer for a short time.
184 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The first daily paper in Anderson, however, and also the first in
Madison county, was the Bulletin, which made its firat appearance on
March 25, 1885. It was started by Dory Biddle, James W. Knight and
Charles R. Craven. Knight and Craven were practical printers, who
had been thrown out of employment by the consolidation of the Demo-
crat and the Review a short time before. The Anderson Review was
started by George Winter in 1880 and conducted by him as a weekly
for about three years, when George Ross and Thomas P. Harris bought
a controlling interest and adopted a Democratic policy. W. S. Diven
soon after purchased an interest and had charge of the editorial policy
until the paper was merged into the Democrat in the latter part of
1884. On the afternoon of March 15, 1885, Biddle, Knight and Craven
were sitting in George Winter's printing office in the Odd Fellows'
building, wHen Craven siiggested that they start a daily paper. The
following Monday Craven and Knight went to Elwood and bought the
outfit of an old printing office there, shipped it to Anderson, established
an office in the basement room in the northwest corner of the court-
house, where the first number of the Daily Bulletin was "struck off"
on the afternoon of March 25, 1885, as above stated. Dory Biddle was
editor and Knight and Craven were the business managers and com-
positors. It is said the three men had exhausted their combined capital
of $27.00 before the paper was ready to go to press, and that John L.
Forkner went security for the paper bill for the first week, which
amounted to $7.40. This puny infant thrived from the start and in a
short time the Bulletin was on a paying basis. When natural gas was
discovered in the county, this paper was one of the most influential
factors in advertising the advantages to be derived and in bringing new
manufacturing establishments into the county. On September 1, 1907,
the Bulletin was consolidated with the Democrat, but is still published
as an afternoon daily under the old name.
In the summer of 1868 John 0. Hardesty purchased the material
of the old Loyal American and began the publication of the Anderson
Herald. Hardesty has been described as a "live wire journalist," and
as his advent into Anderson was right in the midst of a political cam-
paign he soon found an opportunity to do some active work for the
Republican cause. In looking over the annual statement of the receipts
and disbursements of the county, he found a total of $37,000 — not
much for a county like Madison, but the way he played up those figures
before the taxpayers was a caution. The only expenditure for improve-
ments on public buildings was a small sum for a new window shutter
on the courthouse, but Hardesty referred to it as the $37,000 window
shutter, had a picture of it made and ran it in his paper through the
entire campaign. His paper was known as the "Red Hot" Herald, and
while he did not defeat the Democratic county ticket at that election, he
paved the way for the election of a majority of the Republican candi-
dates for county office in 1870.
In the fall of 1872 Stephen Metcalf purchased a one-half interest in
the Herald and in August of the following year purchased Mr. Har-
desty's interest, becoming sole owner. Mr. Metcalf made substantial
improvements in the mechanical department, including the purchase of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 183
a new press. Various changes in ownership and management occurred
during the next fifteen years, W. M. and Caleb H. Kinnard, George
]\IcKeown, Charles H. Ewmg and Mr. Metcalf all holding an interest in
the paper at different times. In April, 1888, A. A. Small became the
owner, but in the fall of the same year sold the office and good will to
H. G. Doggett. Chase Brothers soon after that became the owners and
publishers. They disposed of the paper to J. H. Lewis, who in turn sold
it to J. Q. Donnel, a man of considerable ability, but as he was not always
in accord with his party he lost both prestige and patronage, and in
1895 sold out to Wallace B. Campbell. In the meantime several at-
tempts had been made to establish a daily edition, but all were unsuc-
cessful until the present morning Herald was started in April, 1887.
The Herald is now published every morning, except Monday, by the
Herald Publishing Company and is the oldest Republican paper in
Madison county.
George Winter, who has been mentioned as the founder of the
Anderson Revieiv, was also interested in other newspaper ventures,
among which were the Eveniiig Star, the Daily Review and the Satur-
day Neivs. The first two were forced to suspend and the last was
absorbed by the Anderson Democrat in 1887, when Mr. Winter went to
Washington to accept a place as printer in the government printing
office. He died in Washington in 1889. He was a fine printer but lacked
executive ability.
Pendleton was the second town in the county to boast a newspaper.
In 1870 T. B. Deem came from Knightstown, Henry county, and started
the Pendleton Register, a weekly Republican paper. Accounts vary as
to the ultimate fate of the Register, one authority stating that it was
conducted at Pendleton until 1876, when it was removed to Greenfield,
and. another says the office was purchased by C. B. Caddy in 1878 and
the name of the paper changed to the Pendleton Republican.
The Pendleton Enterprise was started in the spring of 1871 by B.
Gregory, but after a precarious career of nine months it gave up the
ghost. In 1896 Robert E. Maranville began the publication of the
Pendleton Record, which was devoted chiefly to the interests of farmer
and stock raiser. Subsequently he acquired the Pendleton Republican,
but both the Record and the Republican have passed out of existence
and the only paper now published in Pendleton is the Times. It was
founded in 1901 and is published on Friday of each week. Will E.
Witmer is the present editor and proprietor.
The first paper published in Elwood was the Review, which was
established by George Winter in the early spring of 1877. It was short-
lived and in 1880 Roy Hannah, S. T. Legg and Allen Wilson formed
a stock company and commenced the publication of the Free Press,
with Mr. Hannah as editor and manager. Some time later another
paper called the Review was launched by L. H. Emmons, who sold out
to A. W. Ross in 1888. The following year A. J. Behymer bought and
consolidated the Free Press and Recicw and continued the publication
under the former name. M. H. Geyer & Son later purchased the paper,
but after a short time sold it to Jesse IMellet, who started a daily edition
in 1892. The paper is now owned by A. D. MofiEett, who published the
3.86 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Fixe Press every Thursday as a weekly and an afternoon daily called
the Record, which is issued every day except Suodaj-.
The first number of the Elwood Leader made its appearance on
March 19, 1891, bearing the name of W. J. Spruce as editor and pro-
prietor. E. E. Fornshell issued the fii-st number of the Elwood Daily
Call on November 11:, 1891, and on February 1, 1894, these two papers
were consolidated under the name of the Call-Leader. This paper is
now published every afternoon except Sunday by Fonisliell, Carpenter
& Fornshell, and a weekly edition is issued every Thursda.v.
In 1877 Joseph Fenimore established the AUxandrM Bee, the first
paper in Alexandria, but it seeins the Bcc stung the founder, as after
a few months it expired for want of patronage. Eight years later,
in 1885, T.'A. French started the Alexandria Times and announced his
intention to make the paper a success and boom the town. It seems
that a paper called the Tribune was started iii Alexandria a little later,
as the Times-Tribune dat^s its existence from 1894. It is issued every
afternoon except Sunday, R. M. Yelvington being the present publisher.
The Alexandria Record was established by Moore & Myers in 1892.
The following year Harry E. i\Ianor bought the paper and converted
it into a Republican organ. Weekly and daily editions were issued
for a time, but the paper is no longer in existence.
On September 25, 1893, the first number of the Alexandria Press
was issued by C. F. & C. H. Meyer. It has had a successful career, is
Democratic in politics, but is one of the best local papers in the county
outside of Anderson. It is issued on Monday, Wednesday' and Friday
of each week, the Friday issue being a weekly edition intended for
rural circulation.
In November. 1895, George B. IMiekler commenced the publication
of the Gas Belt Xeics at Alexandria. It was a weekly, published every
Friday, and was devoted to the industrial interests of the gas belt, par-
ticularly Alexandria and the immediate vicinity. With the failure of
the gas supply the mi.ssion of the paper was ended and it was .suspended.
The first paper in Summitville was started by a young man named
Pinkerton, but little of its history can be learned. In 1888 the Sum-
mitville Times was started by A. J. Wertz, who had formerly been con-
nected with the Anderson Bulletin, but it was short-lived. George P.
Louiso licgan the publication of the Summitville Wave in 1890. It was
independent in politics, well edited, and soon built up a circulation that
made it a profitable venture. In 1902 the Wave and the North Madison
Democrat were jiurchased and consolidated by L. P. Moore under the
name of the Summitville Reporter. In the fall of 1906 this paper was
sold to AV. A. Wimmer, who in June, 1913, disposed of it to F. D.
Durham, the present proprietor.
The Frankton Leader was established by E. A. Kemp in 1890. It
has been superseded by the Frankton Critic, which was founded in 1901
and is issued every Thursday by the Smith Printing Company. The
Lapel Xeivs was established in 1891 and is now owned and edited by
Lawrence E. Fair. In 1909 the Call of the Moose, a fraternal monthly
devoted to the interest of the Loval Order of ]\Ioose. was established in
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 187
Anderson, and the Gospel Trumpet, a religious periodical, was started
in Anderson in 1906. E. E. Byrum is the editor.
Public Libraries
Madison county has four Carnegie libraries, located at Anderson,
Elwood, Alexandria and Pendleton. The first movement for the estab-
lishment of a public library in Anderson originated in duly, 1879, when
Stephen Metcalf circulated a petition for stock subscriptions for that
purpose. On August 29, 1879, a meeting was held at the office of John
F. Wildman to decide upon a definite plan for the organization of a
library association. Those present at that meeting were John W.
Pence, John E. Corwin, W. T. Durbin, Stephen Metcalf, C. S. Burr,
J. F. Wildman, Jonas Stewart, W. R. Myers, Edgar Henderson, W. S.
Diven, M. A. Chipman, C. D. Thompson, George W. Shreeve, E. P.
Schlater, Thomas B. Orr, Paul Fitzgerald, James W. Sansberry, L. J.
Burr, H. C. Ryan, Zimri Iloekett, H. E. Jones, J. N. Study, William
Suman, I. D. Bosworth, Amzi W. Thomas, James Mohan, George W.
Kessler, G. AV. Brown and G. D. Searle.
Subscriptions amounting to $270 were reported by Mr. Metcalf and
an association was organized with John W. Pence, W. T. Durbin,
Stephen Metcalf, J. F. Wildman, Garrett W. Brown, Jonas Stewart and
E. P. Schlater as a board of directors. The library was opened on
November 8, 1879, in the office of Amzi W. Thomas, on the north side
of the public square, with 374 volumes. In February, 1882, it was
removed to the office of Walker & Walker. Until October, 1885, the
library was kept open but one day each week to give patrons an oppor-
tunity to exchange books. About that time a Young Men's Christian
Association was organized in Anderson and offered to assume the man-
agement of the library. The offer was accepted by the directors and
the library was removed to "Reeve's art gallery," on the west side of
the public square. The Y^oung Men's Christian Association did not
last long and the books went back to the board of directors. For about
a year the books were stored away and the library was then reopened
in the office of Judge Chipman, where it remained until in 1889.
Late in the year 1888 eight young men organized a club, with
Claude S. Burr as president, and Charles Platter as secretary and treas-
urer. This club held its meetings in the Robinson & Lovett block, on
the north side of the public square. Its members secured a majority
of the shares of the old library stock, took control of the books and
removed them to the club rooms. Donations were received about this
time from various persons that brought the number of volumes up to
650.
On February 12, 1889, the Anderson Reading Room and Library
Association was incorporated with the following board of directors:
John W. Lovett, John F. MeClure (then mayor), Stephen Metcalf,
Martha "V. Underbill, John E. Canaday, Mattie V. Berg and Mrs. E. B.
Goodykoontz. These directors, in connection with the club above men-
tioned, continued in control of the library until the spring of 1891,
when a proposition was made to the city to take charge of the books
188
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
and established a city library. On May 11, 1891, the city council resolved
"That the books, papers, furniture and effects of the Anderson Reading
Room and Library Association be accepted by the city of Anderson, in
accordance with the action of said association transferring said prop-
erty to the city, and that the siune be hereafter maintained as a city
library. ' '
Anderson now had a city library, but had no place to put it. The
books were removed to the Newsom block and ^Marcus Kilburnc was
installed as librarian. He was soon after succeeded by Anna B. JMyers.
In April, 1898, the library was removed to the Masonic Temple on ]\Ieri-
dian street. In the meantime a tax had been levied for the support of
the library and the purchase of new books. By this method the library
was increased until it became evident that the quarters in the Masonic
Anderson Public Libb^vbt
Temple would soon become too small and in 1901 M. JI. Dunlap, then
mayor of Anderson, ^\Tote to Andrew Carnegie, asking for a con-
tribution that would enable the city to erect a library building. Mr.
Carnegie was at that time in Europe, but the following year the mayor
wrote again and this time was successful in securing the promise of a
donation of $50,000, on the condition that the city would furnish a suit-
able site and appropriate $5,000 annually for the support of the institu-
tion.
These conditions were complied with, the lot at the northeast
corner of Tenth and Jackson streets was purchased for $17,400, and
work on the building was soon afterward commenced. It was completed
in the spring of 1905 and was formally dedicated with appropriate
ceremonies at the Central Christian church on the evening of April 20,
1905, the dedicatory address being made by M. M. Dunlap and the
building accepted for the city by Mayor John L. Porkner. The total
HISTORY OF JIADISON COUNTY 189
cost of the grounds, buildings and furnishings was $72,200. Miss Kath-
erine A. Chipman is the lil)rariaii and Miss Carrie E. Lake, assistant.
The library now nuinbei-s about twenty-two thousand volumes and is
one of the points of interest in the eity of Anderson.
The following extract conefrning the Elwood public library is taken
from a little booklet issued by the Library Association: "The Elwood
Public Library had its inception in 1898 in the thought of Mrs. A. D.
Moft'ett and has been brought to its present status of usefulness and
efficiency by the Elwood Library Association.
"The association iiad its origin in a committee, composed of Mrs.
Moffett, i\Irs. D. G. Evans, Dr. H. !\L Brown, Rev. L. C. Howe and
Rev. George Chandler, which was appointed in October, 1898, by Mr.
J. T. Alexander, of Greensburg, Indiana, to select a book list for a small
subscription library, owned by the International Library Association,
installed by Mr. Alexander in Room No. 1, of the building at the cor-
ner of South B and Ander.son streets, then known as the Fitz Williams
building.
"The committee met at the library room and pursuant to the sug-
gestion of Mrs. Moffett, that a free public library be established, the
librarian, Mrs. Eva Gilmore, was instructed to send postal cards to
twenty persons, inviting them to a meeting at the library room, to
confer with the committee upon the feasibility of the plan. In response
to this invitation Mr. George HaJ^les, Mr. W. S. James, Mr. A. H.
McKenzie and Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Willkie met with the committee
November 26, 1898, and it was decided to solicit subscriptions at $10
a share to a fund of $1,000 for the establishment of a free public library.
"January 10, 1899, sufficient funds having been subscribed to insure
the fulfillment of the plan, a mass meeting was held in Odd Fellows'
hall and a temporary organization was effected with Mr. F. N. Simmons
as chairman, and Mrs. H. F. Willkie as secretary. Mr. H. P. Willkie
was authorized to draft articles of incorporation and secure a charter.
"January 25, 1899, the charter having been obtained,, and the
required fund being guaranteed by suliscriptions, the permanent organi-
zation was effected in Odd Fellows' hall by the election of a board of
fifteen directors for a period of one year."
Popular interest in the movement to establish a public library was
manifested in the subscriptions to the stock. Among the subscribers
and contributors were most of the leading professional and business
men of Elwood, a number of lodges and trades unions, Sunday school
classes and the children of the public schools. . In April, 1899, the
library was opened in a small room at 1414 Main street, with 1,150
volumes, twelve magazines in the reading room department, and Mrs.
Eva Gilmore in charge as librarian. In June, 1899, the library was
turned over to the city and a tax was levied by the city council for its sup-
port. The following spring the library was removed to the new city
hall building. In 1901, at the solicitation of the Women's Club, the
American Tin Plat* Company made a donation of $1,000.
In December. 1901 Andrew Carnegie, in response to a communication
from the librarian and secretary of the association, Mrs. F. L. Saylor,
offered to donate $25,000 for the erection of a building, provided the
190 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
city would furnish a site and levy an annual tax equal to 10 per cent.
of the gift. The proposition was accepted, a further gift of $5,000 was
received from Mr. Carnegie in 1903, and on June 1, 1904, the building
was dedicated and opened to the public. In the meantime Mrs. Hannah
B. Leeds had given the library $500 and D. G. Reed had donated $100
as an endowment fund for a men's room in the library building.
In June, 1909, library privileges were extended to all the residents
of Pipe Creek township, and about a month after this action was taken
a branch library was opened at Frankton. J. L. Clauser was president
of the board in 1913 ; Mrs. IM. E. King, secretary, and Miss Henriette L.
Seranton was librarian.
Some efforts were made to establish a public library in Alexandria
in the closing years of the last century, but they were unsuccessful.
Elwood Public Librabt
The present library association was organized in 1901 and soon after it
was chartered steps were taken to secure the asistance of Mr. Carnegie
in the erection of a suitable building. A donation was promised under
the usual conditions that an appropriate site be furnished and an annual
tax equal to 10 per cent, of the donation be levied by the city council
for the library's support. A lot was accordingly purchased at the cor-
ner of East Church and Wayne streets, the council levied a tax that
would bring in about $1,400 annually, and Mr. Carnegie sent in his
donation of $12,000, which was subsequently increased by a supple-
mentary gift of $2,000. The building, a neat little structure, was
opened to the public in 1904 and in 1913 the library numbered over
five thousand volumes.
The boEird of directors of the Alexandria Library Association for
the year 1913 was as foUows: Dr. F. G. Keller, president; Rev. G. A.
Little, vice-president; Mrs. Minnie Malone, secretarj-; Rev. F. P. Faust,
pastor of St. Mary's Catholic church; E. P. McMahan, representing
Monroe township ; A. L. Custer, superintendent of the public schools ;
Mrs. F; C. Jones and W. H. May, the last named being an ex officio
director, by virtue of his office of township trustee. Miss Zada Carr
is the librarian and Miss Bessie Bertsche, assistant.
HISTORY OF :MADIS0N COUNTY
191
A library association was organized at Pendleton on November 8,
1877. Dr. 0. W. Brownbaek was elected president and James W. Hard-
man, secretary. Articles of association and a code of by-laws were
adopted and it was decided to solicit subscriptions to a capital stock of
$1,000, divided into two hundred shares of .$5 each. Subscriptions
amounting to $110, or twentj-two shares, were made at the meeting and
the work of soliciting was commenced. J. B. Lewis, AY. F. Morris, O.
W. Brownbaek, Charles E. Goodrich and Benjamin Rogers were elected
directors to serve until the annual meeting of the stockholders as pro-
vided for in the articles of association. Among the stockholders were
Hervey Craven, A. W. Cook. B. F. Aiman, G. A. Phipps, J. R. Silver,
J. F. Silver. Isaac P. Rinewalt, F. M. Hardy, AY. R. Kinnard, S. F. and
J. L. Thomas, J. W., H. F. and \V. H. Lewis, and a number of others
Pendleton Public Library
whose names cannot be ascertained. The library was established iu
what was known as the Red Ribbon reading room in the Commercial
block, but the records of the old association appear to have been lost
and the history of the library cannot be obtained.
The present public library in Pendleton was first conceived by Mrs.
Sarah Skillen Cook and her ideas were carried into effect by an organ-
ization known as the Independent Social Club, Mrs. Cook being aided
by Mrs. Ida Parsons, Thomas M. Hardy, Sr., and her club associates in
the establishment of a circulating library of their own, supported by
contributions. The library was kept in Tank's drug store, but as inter-
est in the work increased it soon became evident that more commodious
quarters would have to be secured. A mass meeting was therefore
called at the Methodist Episcopal church in the early part of 1910, to
discuss "ways and means" of making the library a permanent institu-
tion. Thomas il." Hardy, Sr., offered to donate a lot on East State
192 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
street, near the high school building, if money could be raised for the
erection of a building. This fact was made knowTi to ]\Ir. Carnegie, who
offered to donate $8,000, if the town board would guarantee an annual
fund of $800 for the support of the library. His proposition was
accepted and a tax levied in accordance therewith, and on March 1,
1912, the building was fonnally dedicated. Jacob P. Dunn, of the state
library commission was present and delivered the principal address.
Major Henry Post, Grand Army of the Republic, presented the library
with eighty-four volumes of war history, the Saturday Club gave 110
volumes, the churches also contributed a number of volumes, and
on March 4, 1912, the library was opened to the public, with Miss
Margaret Wade, as librainan. The library now numbers about 2,200
volumes.
In addition to the public libraries above described, every public
school in the county has a small library composed of works of reference,
history and travel, and the books prescribed by the young people's
reading circle, supplementary to the regular course of study in the com-
mon schools. It is impossible, in the absence of official reports, to give
the number of volumes in these school libraries, but Professor James W.
Frazier, county superintendent, estimates that there are ten thousand
volumes in the township schools alone. There are probably as many
more in the school libraries in the cities and incorporated towns.
With school property valued at over $1,100,000; with more than a
quarter of a million dollars expended annually in teachers' salaries;
with almost a score of well-edited local newspapers; with four public
libraries housed in buildings erected especially for their accommoda-
tion, and some twenty thousand volumes in the libraries of the public
schools, the reader may see that the educational development of Madi-
son county has been at least equal to that of the other counties of the
state. As a rule, the teachers employed in the public schools are men
and women of inherent natural ability, supplemented by training for
their work, and many of them hold teachers' licenses of the highest
grade. The parents generally believe in education, newspapers and
magazines find their way into a majority of the homes, the school and
public libraries are well patronized by the students in the public
schools, and everything points to a still higher educational standard in
the county in the future.
i
CHAPTER XII
BENCH AND BAR
First Seat of Justice — Early Courts and Pioneer Judges — Char-
acter OP THE Early Lawyers — Sketches of Judges and Promi-
nent Attorneys — The Superior Court — Incidents in Connec-
tion With Legal Practice.
Contributed by Frank P. Foster, October, 1913
When Madison county was organized in 1823, its seat of government
was located at Pendleton and kept there until 1828, when it was moved
to Anderson. The liret housing of its court in this city, or town as it
then was, though that was less than a century ago, links the dawn of
our courts with a cherished romance of the period, for our first court-
house was a log cabin which had been built and inhabited by the good
Indian, Chief Anderson, and his son.
At the beginning of our judicial needs, the statutes made provisions
for a circuit court which has continued down to the present, and bids
fair for a long life yet. Now and then at different dates other tribunals
have sprung into existence, but most of them, some after a considerable
period, others in a few brief years, following their creation were cut
short and are no more. The jurisdiction of these additional courts was
not so comprehensive as tliat of the circuit court.
The probate court which flourished from 1829 to 1852 had to do
simply with such matters as are now addressed to the probate side of
the circuit court. James Scott was its fii-st judge and held his office for
more than ten years and until 1841, when W. H. ]Mershon rose to the
same honor wore it during a like period and until 1851 when J. N.
Starkey succeeded him only to lose his office the next year when the
court was abolished.
With the disestablishment of the probate court, a court of common
pleas was brought into existence and was retained until 1873, when
the legislature compelled it to go the way of the former inferior tribunal.
The district of this court was composed of the counties of Madison,
Hancock and Henrj^ And the attorneys elected to fill the office of
judge while it lasted were as follows beginning with the first and nam-
ing them in the order of their service : David S. Gooding of Hancock
county, Richard Lake of IMadison, William Grose of Henrj', E. B. Mar-
tindale of Henry, David S. Gooding, again elected in 1862, William R.
West of Madison and Robert L. Polk of Henry.
Vol. I , 3
193
194 HISTORY OF AIADISON COUNTY
And the attorneys who prosecuted the pleas of the state in this court
were from first to last naming them in the order of their service :
James W. Sansberiy, W. R. Hough, Calvin D. Thompson, William P.
Wallace, Joseph W'. Worl and Washington Saunders.
The only bench in the county which in importance may properly be
classed with that of the circuit court is our superior court organized
in 1895. Aside from criminal and probate cases, over which it has no
power, its jurisdiction is co-equal and co-extensive with that of the
circuit court in all civil causes.
The superior court of Madison county has proved itself of great
value. Its beginning took on a happy cast from the splendid adminis-
tration which it received through the ability of William S. Piven, its
first judge, appointed to the position by the governor of the state imme-
diately upon the passage of the act creating the court. He brought
to the discharge of his duties all the essential requisites of a successful
nisi prius court-industry, impartiality, a keen sense of honor and the
mental power to grasp readily the force of testimony and the law's
reasons.
The confidence of the public in this court continues. The three
terms inaugurated since that of Judge Diven closed have enlisted the
conscientious labors of Henry C. Ryan, Cassius M. Gi'eenlee and Clar-
ence H. Austin, the present incxunbeut, respectively in the order
named. And their deliberations and decisions have aided in securing
for this tribunal the high respect of the bar and of litigants, and a
bright place on the pages of our judicial history.
Referring again to the circuit court we behold a long line of judges
who have from time to time been summoned to its sendee. At the time
of its creation and for many years following that, two associate judges
were called to sit with the circuit judge in the trial of causes. This
form of procedure lasted until 1852. Then it was changed, and ever
since then the circuit judge has presided alone.
The names of those occupying this position from the birth of the
county down to 1852, are William W. Wick, Miles C. Eggleston, Bethel
F. Morris, William W. Wick (second term), James Jlorrison, David
Kilgore, and Jeremiah Smith. And the associate judges who served
during the same period were : Samuel Holliday, Adam Winsell,
Andrew Jackson, Charles Mitchell, William Prigg, Abram Thomas,
Uriah Van Pelt, David Pickard, George Millspaugh, J. W. Walker
and Eli Hodson. And the names of the circuit judges since 1852 are:
Stephen Major, Joseph S. Buckles, Henry A. Brouse, John Davis, James
0 'Brien, W^inburn R. Pierse, Hervey Craven, Eli B. Goodykoontz, David
N. Moss, Marcellus A. Chipman, Alfred Ellison, John F." McClure,
Charles K. Bagot.
This court in Madison county, owing to its long life, coeval almost
with that of the state, and the high and faithful character of its func-
tions deserves in this connection more than a mere mention of its
duration or its honored names. Those of an earlier period with few
exceptions were chosen from the counties with which Madison at differ-
ent times was framed into judicial circuits, and naturally were not so
well known to us as those who were elevated to that station from our
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 195
very midst, which of course took place as populations grew denser and
the circuits in consequence dwindled in area. This process has advanced
until Madison county has become a circuit to itself. The judges of the
old circuits, however, were men of exalted characters and deserve as
they are sure to retain the respect and gratitude of all who have inher-
ited the safe and sane conditions of a society to which they definitely
contributed by their care and efforts in the administration of justice.
The record of the Madison circuit court can not be truly traced in terms
other than those of praise. No one of its many members was ever
impeached nor so much as threatened with such a proceeding. It has
never been charged or believed upon reliable authority that any one
of them was ever moved or tempted in his official action by corrupt con-
siderations. The people of the county can not too often recall the
debt of gratitude they owe to their clean and upright judges. Think
of the thousands of controvereies they have heard and helped to settle.
It seems but little short of marvelous that through all the quarrels of
neighbors and the fierce litigation that has marked our local history,
we should yet have settled down to the quiet order of the present, so
that all fair minded men now looking back over the work of the courts
may say, "well done." Can the general public or the litigants directly
effected do less than declare the integrity and intelligence of the Madi-
son county courts?
To some of the men who have served upon the circuit bench in recent
times there attaches a special interest, both from the inherent traits of
their characters and from the volume and importance of the questions
which they were called upon to try and determine.
At the conclusion of a certain trial before the Honorable Ilervey
Craven wherein the defendant had been fined, his attorney in a com-
plaining tone remarked that the judgment was rather severe. To this
the judge replied, "Well, damn him, he shot my dog."
Again, when a woman of none too savory a reputation for chastity
had appeared at the bar for trial upon a charge which emphasized her
unfortunate weakness, the judge after a composed but complete survey
of the court room, turned to the sheriff and inquired why it was that
Dr. and Mr. , and a number of well known
citizens, naming them, were not present. None of these gentlemen had
any connection with the case, but the judge knowing their relish of
the testimony usually elicited at such trials, thought it worth while to
inquire in open court for them.
But who looking back a generation does not delight to honor the
"rough and ready" manner of Judge Craven, by which he enlivened
the administration of justice? And though somewhat eccentric in his
notions of procedure and the etiquette of the court room, no one
questioned his integrity or that he possessed a fearless love of justice
or the courage to open for it a highway to the true goal when weighty
issues were at stake.
The disposition to encourage a compromise of pending litigation has
increased notably during the present generation. This may be the
ease in various counties of the state. But whether such is a fact or
not, it is so in Madison county. And the spirit of compromise was given
196 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
its most distinctive opportuuity when Eli B. Goodykoontz succeeded
Judge Craven on the bench in 1880. Judge Goodykoontz had never
exhibited the extreme qualities of a militant, even as a practitioner.
He came nearer to being what is generally understood as an office law-
yer. And while he was unquestionably a good pleader and sound law-
yer, as may be supposed from his long partnei-ships with two giants of
the local bar, that first with John Davis, who subsequently became
judge, and that afterward with the late James W. Sansberry, he did
not enjoy participation in the fierce conflicts of the form. Hence, as
was but natural when he came to preside as the judge of the circuit
bench, it was his habit as it was his happy privilege, in cases prom-
ising but meager results at the end of long drawn out struggles, to sug-
gest to attorneys for plaitiffs and defendants a settlement without trial.
In many instances his advice was followed. And soon the resort to
mutual settlements without the intervention of judge or jury became
almost common, except in the weightier cases where differences were
radical or of such a nature that the tribunal provided by the statute,
as aften happens, was the most expedient, the cheapest and the best
that could be invoked for the determination of the dispute. But Judge
Goodykoontz was a man of the purest morals, the highest integrity, and
with his firm grasp of legal principles, he was a positive aid in the con-
duct of the court, and his widespread and healthful influence for honor-
able practice at the bar had a justification in all that he did and stood
for.
Marcellus A. Chipman came to the bench in 1888. He was the
absolute antithesis, both of Judge Moss his immediate predecessor and
of Judge Goodykoontz who had preceded Judge Moss, in his attitude
toward pleading and practice. They cared hardly at all for form, if
only results might be reached. Judge Chipman was more lawyer like.
Trained to make issues by regular and logical steps, he adhered to that
method always. And nothing delighted him more than a well worded,
clean cut, logical presentation of an issue on paper. To him came
exquisite delight to weigh the argument of counsel as revealed in sharp
incisions of keen retort or in the heavy proof of authority piled on
authority. He fell nothing short of the kindly men who had gone
before him in his hope to see justice prevail. He had all patience, and
"would listen to an advocate old or young as long as he cared to write
or talk in support of his position. But he seemed to think that when a
party had committed his grievance to the court, it should be threshed
out through the processes there provided. And so with the circumspec-
tion of the clear headed pleader, with the promptness of the faithful
public servant, with the fairness of the just judge, he welcomed the
formation of the issues to a finish and all the conflict that those joining
them might produce until judgment was rendered. This requirement
of the court too was a good lesson to those practicing before it. The
advantage of well reasoned statements and carefully prepared papers
were readily recognized by all members of the bar. And there is no
doubt that many, especially the younger lawyers, have experienced
great help in the fondness of Judge Chipman for correct pleading and
for all the finer practices of the profession.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 197
Alfred Ellison was chosen circuit judge by the electors of the county
in 1890, being at the time but thirty-six years of age, probably the
youngest candidate ever elevated to that position in this county. He
had then been engaged in the practice of his profession but a few
years, and there were not lacking those in the campaign who expressed
their doubts of his ability to discharge the duties of the office to which
he aspired. But the fact soon dawned and to the gi'eat gratification of
his friends, that he was fully master of the new situation. During the
first four years of his term there were more causes disposed of by
him each term than ever found their way to a trial calendar in a single
term in any court in this county before or since. Hundreds of these
causes involved large sums and important interests. But the judge
did not shirk the mountain of labor which thus piled up before him.
Day after day he held court through terms practically unending, for
when the statutory time arrived for a new term to commence the old
one was still holding on. Besides this, night sessions of the court were
not uncommon. Ten o'clock found court in session many nights. And
upon a few occasions the jury was instructed by Judge Ellison after the
clock in the tower had struck the solemn hour of midnight. The work
was more than one judge should have been required to do. And finally
to relieve the overworked court and to facilitate the disposition of cases
the movement began, which resulted in the establishment of the supe-
rior court in the latter part of his term. Very few, only three or four
of the judgments rendered by Judge Ellison and appealed to the
supreme court were reversed. And he never met with a reversal in
the higher courts from his instructions to a jury.
The characteristic bearing of Judge Ellison upon the bench was dis-
tinctly courteous, and his uniform kindness and ease of manner toward
the several members of the bar served to make him popular. And all
remembering his industry, his integrity, and his kindly disposition,
retain for him" their admiration and good will.
The success of Judge Ellison had made it plain that the younger as
well as the older lawyers were fit for the bench. And so as one of this
class had done so well, the thought was natural that another might be
tried. It was in this conviction that the people called John F. McClur'i
to try his hand. He was just rounding to the maturity of his mental
powers when elected judge in 1896. And endowed with a conquering
greediness for the toil that runs a question down, he delved into the
principles of law and the details of evidence in so thorough a fashion
that although he may have seemed to be slow as he plodded, it was plain
w^hen he had concluded his finding and judgment that he was reaUy
rapid, for then the whole fabric of the case stood revealed and its atmos-
phere cleared in his complete consideration and exposition of the
same. His re-election to a second term was an indorsement of his first.
And during the whole of his twelve years upon the bench he performed
a prodigious amount of labor, through which with admirable judicial
poise and earnest manner uniquely underlaid with a fine sparkle and
relish of quiet wit, he won and retains the deep appreciation of the bar
and public.
It may be that the merits of Charles K. Bagot as judge of the Madi-
198 HISTORY OF JIADISON COUNTY
son circuit court can not now be so truly measured or appreciated as
they may when his entire career in such capacity shall have dropped
into the golden mould of time. But his work has gone far enough
already to warrant an assertion of its success, as it has a general belief
that he will leave behind him a judicial record of exceptional worth and
ability.
He had engaged for many years in an active practice in the courts
when called to preside in this one. He possessed a rare knowledge of
the law and of the rules of proceedure, which he has carried and applied
in the best and most conscientious way to his work upon the bench. Lay-
ing asid,e the partiality which the attorney naturally takes on for his
client, he assumes in his high position the impartiality and reserve which
are found only in the trusted arbiter of litigants. And his unfailing
evenness of temper and genial disposition, together with his recognized
understanding of the law fit him well for his varied work as judge in
questions of probate, in civil and criminal causes.
And passing now from the bench in this narrative to the bar of Madi-
son county, one realizes more fully still the difficulty of attempting a
sketch at once truthful and of interest concerning an institution and
the numerous individuals composing it, whose lives and labors are in-
wrought all told with a hundred years of human controversy.
But while the task looms doubtful of complete success, it is not with-
out attractiveness. There is so much of variety, of effort and of inspira-
tion connected with the character and history of our bar that a real
pleasure fills the minds as it soars in survey of the noblest of its past and
dwells on the precious lessons that have flowed thence to the present.
There is a glory in the very simplicity and naturalness by which law-
yers practicing before a court come into association. They do not
arrive by any assignment. They have no "Union." They stand there
at the call of human brotherhood, obedient to the needs and rights of
clients. Money is not the main moving cause. Fees are charged and
paid, but they are only incidental to the work. They are absolutely
requisite now and then of course. But the compelling magnet which
draws men to this profession is the burning thought of fame and of
service to one 's fellows and to society.
Lawyers laboring always in a situation that would enable them to
form the most rigid combine to monopolize employment and fix charges,
do not choose to exercise such advantage. The field is left always open.
Every attorney remains free to serve whom and to charge what he
pleases. In .this also he consults his client, and the compensation is
largely a mutual matter between them. This is the most honorable
relation between employer and employed in the world. The fee may
be thousands, it may be nothing, but all the same the attorney has the
consciousness of having done his duty and of having satisfied his client.
He has come into this notion of his service by tradition and by impulse.
If he has studied the ethics of his profession, he knows that in a way he
is a public servant and that upon him rests a duty to aid the ends of
justice, although in particular calls upon his time and talent there may
be no pay, while on the other hand he has the right to handsome com-
pensation for intense thought and devotion to the dearest or most valu-
able interests of another.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 199
Could character actuated and developed under such ideals be other-
wise than strong ? Could living sustained in such a pursuit be anything
but noble ? The lawyer may not often enough reflect upon the value or
the extent of his influence. It is sure that he rarely boasts of it. But his
quiet conduct exerted with a fair understanding of what is just and
what is practical in his community is a steadying, leavening force that
has no equal man for man in any other calling.
The legal profession attracts to its pursuits men of brains. There
are such in almost every county seat in the United States, who are able,
should the opportunity offer, to preside with credit in the highest courts
of their state or country. The most of this modest talent receives no
public notice. It does not need nor long for that, for it is a reserved
and latent force and a pleasure to itself and to those it serves in a
private and effective way.
Moreover, here is found exceptional honesty and the trust that fol-
lows it. In business enterprises generally a mortgage or binding con-
tract is executed to secure performance. With all, the lawyer's word is
better than a bond. The deepest secrets and sums without limit repose
absolutely on his judgment and in his keeping. The wrongs wrought by
dishonorable practice on the part of members of the Madison county bar,
could any be found, would make but a bagatelle compared with the
mass of that which is square and upright. Realizing this, it is easy to
understand the uniform courtesy and good feeling that prevails among
practitioners here, where envy and ill will have but little place. But
hope each for the other and faith that the greatest success wall follow
each individual as he adheres nearest to an open and honest struggle is
the sentiment which animates the members, and is well nigh universal
among them.
The Madison County Bar Association was organized in January,
1892, with Howell D. Thompson as president; Edward D. Reardon, sec-
retary, and E. B. Mc^Iahan, treasurer. Mr. Thompson served until his
death, when Frank P. Foster was chosen as his successor and still holds
the position. Upon the removal of Mr. Reardon to Indianapolis,
Frederick Van Nuys was selected as secretary and still serves in that
capacity, and Mr. MclMahan continues to discharge the duties of treas-
urer. All these positions are merely formal, for the purpose of the
association is purely social. It has no stated meetings ; it has formulated
neither a constitution nor by-laws. Its members assemble only when
called upon to attend the last sad rites of a stricken one, or on the occa-
sion of a banquet or other social function. But even in this unwritten
and informal character, the members of the bar have come to regard
their association as something more than nominal and are ever ready
to lend their presence and aid to its invitations and directions.
It would not be worth while, perhaps, if it were proper at all, to com-
ment here upon living members of the bar, since sketches of them, or
many of them, will doubtless appear in biographical notices, elsewhere in
this volume. But it may be helpful to collect, which is done, at the
foot of this article, a roster of the practicing attorneys in our court from
the beginning to the present.
Something also may be said of some of those who have passed to the
200 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
"bourne from which no traveler returns," members of the Madison
county bar, who in one way or another, now and then in a manner very
simple and in other instances quite ^ave, but generally in such a fash-
ion as to leave an impression with their fellows and upon the community
that history hastens to collect and hold for posterity to whom its recital
may be of use and interest in after years.
As a mere mark of wide spread circumstance, the earliest period of
the Madison county bar is the farthest famed of any in its entire record.
A few of its first members were governors, and others United States
senators: James B. Ray became governor of Indiana in 1823. To the
same station in 1843 rose James Whitcomb, who was later advanced to
the senate of the United States. Oliver H. Smith, a profound lawyer
and a happy writer, whose "Early Indiana Trials and Sketches," will
last with the state's literature, was elected a United States senator in
1836.
Smith, prior to the time he became senator, and Ray, while governor,
bore conspicuous parts, though in a very different capacity in one of the
most remarkable lawsuits that was ever prosecuted in this county or in
the United States. It nlay be worth while here to recall the fact that
Madison county's trial of widest note and importance took place but
one year after the organization of the county.
It was in the spring of 1824, that a party of Seneca Indians — two
men, three squaws and four children — encamped on the east side of Fall
creek, about eight miles above Pendleton. They were peaceable and came
to hunt and trap. They had been there a week, when in the evening
seated about their blazing fagots wholly unsuspicious of harm, they
were visited by five white men of the neighborhood — Harper, Sawyer,
Hudson, Bridge and a son of Bridge, aged eighteen. They enticed the
male Indians from the camp on a pretext of having them help in hunt-
ing some lost horses, and shot them, then returned and killed the squaws
and both boys and the two little girls. Harper fled and made good his
escape. The others were arrested and held for trial. News of the crime
flew as if on the "wings of the wind." Soon it was known in every
wigwam and war council of the powerful Senecas. The settlers then but
sparse were greatly alarmed, lest the deed v.'ould call the redskins to
retaliate.^' And the white folks of that day knew what a campaign of
the tribes for vengeance meant. And all were astir. But notice of this
foul murder was taken by others also. It had the attention of John
Johnson, Indian agent at Piqua, Ohio. And he and others visited all
the Indian tribes and promised them that the government would punish
the offenders, and obtained from them consent to make no hostile move
until there had been time for the law to act. The war department at
Washington also was on edge. A national policy and great interests
were at stake. And the secretary of war was quick to weigh the gravity
of the situation. The preparation for and conduct of that trial were
directed from the capital of the nation. The secretary of war employed
United States Senator James Noble to make an argument in the case,
authorizing him at the same time to fee an assistant for the same pur-
pose. Calvin Fletcher then a young man, and a brilliant lawyer, was
the prosecuting attorney. An array of able counsel, some of them
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 201
from Ohio, appeared for the defense. Hudson was tried first. He was
convicted and hanged. Several Seneca Indians, relatives of the victims,
were present at the hanging. The other three defendants were tried,
convicted and sentenced to the gallows. Sawyer and the elder Bridge
paid the extreme penalty. The younger Bridge was on the scaffold and
the noose was around his neck. He was but a stripling, and much
sympathy had been expressed for him. The governor had considered a
petition for his pardon. And an incident of his action on this serves
strongly to reveal a trait that was prominent in Governor Ray. He was
fond of impressing others with his importance. He was, it is related
on good authority, eccentric and vain. He did not hesitate to make a
spectacular exhibition of himself in order to draw the attention of the
public to himself. And to this young man in his awful hour and before
the vast concourse of people gathered about him, the governor chose not
to send his message by a courier, nor to approach the scene in solemn
and dignified bearing, such as would seem to have been suitable to that
occasion, but to ride his steed furiously into the expectant crowd just
in time to stay the fatal drop, dismount, ascend to the scaffold and
address the quivering culprit thus :
"Young man, do you know who now stands before you?"
"No sir," said the dejected boy.
"Well sir, it is time that you should know. There are, sir, but two
beings in the great universe who can save you from death ; one is the
great God of Heaven, and the other is James Brown Ray, governor of
Indiana, who now stands before you. Here is your pardon. Go sir.
and sin no more!" ^
This case was remarkable not alone for its atrocity and for the able
and illustrious counsel engaged in it. It stood out no less clearly for
the absolute faithfulness of the local and national officers and attorneys
in the execution of the law for the expiration of the crime committed upon
those helpless children of the forest. And it was the first instance in
America of a white man suffering the death penalty under the law for
murdering an Indian. -
Richard K. Benson who practiced here in the seventies, and Charles
Nation who continued to do so until some time in the eighties, though
they did nothing so far as the records run to call forth particular com-
ment, each held a certain personal relation to which interest has
attached. For the former was the brother of Luther Benson, the
eloquent temperance advocate noted in his day throughout the land,
while the latter was the son of a former marriage of the husband of
Carrie Nation, who in campaigning against the liquor traffic a decade or
two ago, won as her sobriquet, "The Hatchet."
One of the attorneys who came to the Madison county bar in the
first decade of its history was Robert Newell Williams, a man of extra-
ordinary versatility in the general business and industrial life of the
community. For he was not only a lawyer, but a skilful accountant,
a successful politician and a captain of industry. Through the seventy
' Stories of Indiana, Maurice Thompson, p. 196.
2 Early Indiana Trials and Sketches, Oliver H. Smith, p. 57.
202 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
years allotted to him, his life unrolled like a ribbon of beanty and com-
pleteness. He was bom in 1800 at Elizabeth City, North Carolina. And
migrating from there when he had an-ived at the age of sixteen with his
parents traveling in a wagon drawn by one ox, he halted with them in
Montgomery county, Ohio, near Dayton. During the succeeding twelve
years, young Robert labored principally at making and mending shoes
and harness, steamboating and at teaching school in his adopted county,
and in Darke and Preble counties, Ohio. While residing near Dayton,
he made a trip from Cincinnati to New Orleans by boat. On arriving at
Cincinnati on his return and being in a hurry to reach home, he walked
the entire distance from Cincinnati to his home, a distance of 55 miles
between daylight and dark of one day. But it was in 1828 that his
eyes first tell upon the light that shone over Andersontown. And here
his services were soon in demand. There being but few^ men in the rural
districts of those days, who could discharge the duties of public office,
and no bar to the number of such positions one might occupy, he held
the office of postmaster, county auditor, clerk and recorder, all at the
same time. He represented his county two terms 1842-43 and 1847-8
in the Indiana legislature. And when Anderson became a city, he was
chosen without opposition to be its first mayor. Besides these offices, he
served during the war as deputy revenue collector and as a clerk for
the medical board, having charge of the physical examination of those
drafted for military service.
Mr. Williams had an aptitude also for handling large industrial proj-
ects. He was one of the contractors who built the first railroad in
Indiana, the old junction line extending from Indianapolis to Madison.
And he undertook with the company that constructed what is now the
Pan Handle Railroad to do a portion of their grading. He believed in
the material as well as the political and educational development of his
city and his name was synonymous with progress. Williams' addition
to the south front and Williams' street, now Twelfth street, were named
for him.
The late Augustus M. Williams, the first white male child born in
Anderson, was the son of Robert Newell Williams, and by whose liberal-
ity and love of learning the son was afforded a classical education at
Asbury University. And the late Addison D. Williams, also a lawyer
and for many years the surveyor of Madison county, was his son. And
there still reside in this city two of his grandsons, Drs. Charles F. and
Lucian 0. Williams.
The breadth and independence of his mind may be judged by his
preferences in voting for presidents in the course of which he so favored
John Quincy Adams, Jackson, Harrison, Fremont and Lincoln. And
in all the varied relations of lawyer, public official and private citizen
he sustained a charter of unquestionable integrity, and enjoyed the
esteem and confidence of all who knew him.
Another of the early legal lights was John Davis. He first saw the
light of this world in Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1812. His father, when
John was quite young, moved to Mount Vernon, Ohio, where he owned
and operated large woolen mills. During this period the son attended
Kenyon College at Gambler, Ohio. Later, he came westward and read
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 203
law with John Elliott at Newcastle, Indiana. He settled in Anderson
for the practice of his profession in 1835. Giving some attention to
polities, he was elected to the state legislature in 1842 and again in 1852.
In recognition of his legal attainments and titness, he was honored with
the judgeship of the circuit court from 1865 to 1869, which was then
held in Anderson, Noblesville, Kokonio and Tipton.
Judge Davis was one of the strong lawyers of his time and enjoyed
a large practice. Many of the well known attorneys who afterward
came to the bar studied under him. Among these were Richard Lake,
Eli B. Goodykoontz and William R. Myers.
Judge Davis owned considerable of the land in and near town and he
laid off into building lots several additions. Upon his retirement from
the bench, he traveled extensively and journeyed to Europe. While at
Acqui in Italy, he suffered from a stroke of paralysis, and returning
thence to his home, he continued to reside in Anderson, one of its vener-
able and most respected citizens until his death which occurred in 1875.
In this connection, let us refer also to Richard Lake. He was bom
in Knox county, Ohio, in 1825. At the age of nineteen he came to
Anderson to visit his cousin, John Davis. This was the John Davis who
afterward became judge and who was then practicing law in Ander-
son. Young Lake liked the country here, liked his cousin, more than
liked the sister of his cousin's wife, for two years after that he made
her his wife, and thinking he would like to be a lawyer himself, he
entered upon a course of study with such in view in the office of his
cousin.
Determined to make his education more complete he attended the
Martinsburg Academy in 1847. The next year he was admitted to the
Madison county bar, and in the following year to practice in the supreme
court.
His success was rapid, when once he had launched into the practice.
Though not so close a student, perhaps, of the books as some of the old
attorneys, he possessed a native strength in debate and judgment of
human nature that made him a lion before the jury. His practice once
extended throughout eastern and southern Indiana, and he rode the cir-
cuits with the veterans of the bar.
Judge Lake was the recipient of many public honors. He was the
postmaster of Anderson by appointment from President Pierce. He
served a term as judge of the court of common pleas. And he was elected
to represent his county in the general assembly of 1862-1863.
He was personally and as a citizen one of the finest of characters.
Truthful, honest and square in all his dealings, he was large of heart
and immense in his good cheer. And so he lived to the end of his life
which came on the 22nd day of February, 1898, at his home on South
Jackson street in the city of Anderson, surrounded by his aft'ectionate
wife, sons and daughters.
The career of James W. Sansberry looms large in the history of the
Madison county bar, and is calculated to encourage worthy young men
to high endeavor. Bom in Brown county, Ohio, he lost both his par-
ents when he was but six years of age. A home was found for him with
an uncle in Delaware county, Indiana. But he was fourteen years old
204 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
before he received the advantages of any schooling. Then he went to the
common schools, and in a few j'ears taught a country school. Follow-
ing this he entered the Delaware Academy at which he made rapid prog-
ress in his studies. In 1849, he went back to his birth place in Ohio and
while there taught a term of school. Subsequently he returned to
Muncie and began the study of law in the office of Joseph S. Buckles
where by good conduct and close application to his books he gave prom-
ise of the success which he subsequently achieved. There he made
such favorable impression on his preceptor that when he first bid for
law business, which he did in Anderson, 1851, the name of his mentor
was coupled with his own, and his sign read, "Buckles & Sansberry. "
Mr. Sansberry was at once aThard working lawyer and an eloquent
advocate. Many of his jury speeches are remembered to have been
among the most powerful ever delivered here. And his success at the
bar both in the fate of his clients and in the remuneration which he
earned was commensurate with his merits. And he died the wealthiest
member our bar has ever been called upon to mourn.
As some measure also of the range of Mr. Sansberry 's capacity, it
may be pertinent to say, that he filled the office of prosecuting attorney
from 1852 to 1856 having been reelected midway between these dates.
In 1864 he served as a presidential elector on the ticket favoring Gen-
eral McCIeUan. He served one term in the legislature of his state — the
session of 1870-71. And he discharged these several duties with the
high degree of talent and integrity which leaves with every citizen and
constituent a feeling of pride and satisfaction.
Mr. Sansberry passed away at the age of seventy-seven. But seven-
teen years prior to that he had retired from active practice at the bar,
thus exhibiting a rare exception to the rule. For when he was thus
but sixty years of age in fine physical and mental condition and in the
very plentitude of his practice, he chose to retire and live the remainder
of his days the easy, quiet life among his neighbors and with his family,
which he had fully earned and so deeply enjoyed to the very last.
Another giant of those days was Milton S. Robinson. He was born
in Ripley county, Indiana, April 20, 18.32, and reared there and in
Decatur county. He began the practice of law at Anderson in 1851,
and continued it until his death, July 28, 1892. But, like most men
of his stamp and profession, public service broke some links in the chain
of his prime pui"suit. Milton S. Robinson was a patriot. And when the
bugle note of war sounded, he dropped his Blackstone and shouldered
a musket. He went to the front and remained there till the war was
over. He was mustered in as a lieutenant-colonel, but afterwai'd pro-
moted to a colonelcy, frequently commanding a brigade. And in March,
1865, he was brevetted brigadier-general for gallant services at Chick-
amauga. Missionary Ridge and other great battles.
And he had some political side lines too. He was a presidential
elector on the Fremont ticket in 1856. He was only twent.v-four years
old at that time. He was elected to the state senate in 1866, to con-
gress in 1874 and again in 1876, and appointed a judge of the appellate
court of Indiana, 1891.
But it was as a lawyer perhaps, after all, that Colonel Robinson
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 205
made liis deepest and finest impression on those who knew him. It
would require a book to relate the trials and incidents which bear upon
his work and conduct in the practice. But if the dominant note of his
soul can be sounded in one word, we venture to say it was honesty.
He was perfectly oblivious to the temptation for gain. He first satis-
fied himself that his client was in the right before he would take his
cause. And rather than retain a fee which he thought was excessive,
he would insist on the return of all above what he considered just,
although it maj' have been passed to his credit long prior with the client
satisfied.
In his family relations he was generous and above reproach. Always
ready to open an opportunity to the young man and quick to extend a
helping hand to his older comrades and associates, he had so lived
that when he passed out from among his neighbors and friends, their
name was legion whose hearts were bound to him like "hoops of steel."
Howell D. Thompson, who at the time of his death, ^larch 14, 1901,
had been in continuous practice longer than anj' member of the bar
then living, was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, iMay 6, 1822.
He spent his early boyhood days thei-e working upon his father's farm.
Then he came west and while a young man attended Farmer's College
in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he graduated in 1849. Afterward he taught
school and found his way to the study of law in the office of Ilervey
Ci'aveu at Pendleton. He was admitted to this bar in 1851 and shortly
afterward admitted to practice in the Indiana supreme court and in
the federal courts.
He and AVinburu R. Pierse associated themselves together for the
practice of their profession soon after they had finished their studies.
And the firm of Piei-se & Thompson enjoyed a large practice in Ander-
son until 1873, when by mutual consent it was dissolved.
Mr. Thompson gave his time and attention more exclusively to his
profession probably than any other attorney at this bar. No office or
other business ever drew him away, except that of school examiner
which he held for two years. He clung to his desk with a rare devotion.
Night, almost as regularly as day, found him there. He prided him-
self on his fine collection of law books. And his library, rich in its
store of elementary texts, contained among its varied choice reports,
besides those of his own state, the New York court of appeals, John-
son's Equity Reports, the Ohio State Reports, the Michigan Reports,
the Minnesota Reports and a set of the North Eastern Reporter.
Mr. Thompson was wonderfully methodical in his practice and in
all his habits and work about his office. As an instance of this may
be cited his custom of writing down in narrative form a history of every
lawsuit in which he was ever engaged. He kept this up to the end of
his life. lie had thus filled large journals with these records, all care-
fully indexed, lie put down the names of the parties in full, the
nature of the issues and all the data pertinent to the case. Much of
this great labor seemed to be for nothing. But in scores of instances
attorneys and others looking for facts that had passed from the minds
of men and from current soun-es of knowledge have found on the pages
of his old records the information they sought.
206 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
To the student who might be studying in his office, he was uni-
formly kind and helpful. For the advancement of such he showed a
genuine enthusiasm. He took up the course with the young man. He
assigned him lessons. He came to the office, if more convenient, at
night to hear him recite. He delighted in this manner to review the
principles as laid down in Blackstone, Parsons, Chitty and Starkey.
And it is needless perhaps to say that in doing so, lie supplemented
what was brought out of the books with many oral illustrations from
his own experience which made a deep and abiding impression on the
mind of the learner.
He was for many years and up to the date of his decease the presi-
dent of the Madison County Bar Association. And although his health
had become impaired during the" last few years of his life, his interest in
the courts and in the attorneys never lagged. He was regularly in
attendance on call days and always with the same cheerfulness and
smile that had marked him in days of more rugged health. And when
Howell D. Thompson passed the last time from the court room and from
earth, which was shortly afterward, every attorney at the bar felt the
loss of a friend.
And speaking of Mr. Thompson it is but natural to refer to Win-
bum R. Pierse, so intimately were they associated as students, as part-
ners and as rivals at the bar. They were of about the same age, both
studied together with Judge Craven, began the practice together as
partners and each of them was engaged in active practice when death
overtook them, which was hut a few years apart.
But a business venture of considerable importance to this part of
the country made a large hiatus in the legal career of Winburn R.
Pierse. About 1873, he became interested in promoting the construc-
tion of the Anderson & Lebanon Railroad, now the Central Indiana.
He was one of its stockholders and to its development devoted much
of his energy, time and means. In a financial way it proved a failure.
And Judge Pierse like some of his associates in the enterprise was a
heavy loser. And after several years spent in the furtherance of this
laudible but costly undertaking, he returned to the work of his pro-
fession.
Judge Pierse was a brilliant lawyer. He had a good legal mind.
And the versatility of his powers has often been the subject of remark.
It has been the judgment of some lawyers well qualified to speak in this
regard, that he was as well equipped in every way for the practice of
law as any one who has ever appeared in our courts.
He served two years upon the bench of the circuit court. But the
major part of his time found him in the fierce conflicts of the court
room. And the attorney whoever he might be, and in whatever kind
of a cause they might be engaged, knew when Judge Pierse was on the
other side, that he would have a fight on his hands. His success at the
bar was great. Still he was a good loser. And when beaten took his
defeat with the same ehivalrie grace which he wore in the hour of
triumph.
Oliver P. Stone studied law in Winchester, Randolph county,
Indiana, and was there admitted to the bar. He came to Anderson in
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 207
the '50s and practiced there for some time. He then turned his atten-
tion to educational work and was for several years school examiner
under the old law. He became a large real estate owner and at one
time owned the property now known as "Lincoln Terrace," near the
Catholic church, at the corner of Eleventh and Fletcher streets. Mr.
Stone was a successful lawyer and as school examiner did much to pave
the way for the present magnificent public school system of Madison
county. His son, Frank L. Stone, is now a practicing physician of Pen-
dleton.
One of the most interesting among the patriarchs of the profession
was DeWitt C. Chipman. He is not generally classed among the early
practictioners, because he lived much longer than his brothers at the
bar. He was born in the same year as James \V. Sansberry, and a
year prior to the natal time of Richard Lake. But he lived until
November 24, 1910. He came well down among the moderns with firm
and elastic step.
J\lr. Chipman was an older man than most people took him to be.
Likewise, he is entitled to a higher rating as a lawyer than has gener-
ally been accorded to him at this bar. The fact is he had passed the
meridian of his power as a lawyer before he came to Anderson. But
it is the province of history to credit one with all he may have done
whenever or wherever it may have been.
DeWitt C. Chipman lived in Noblesville nearly thirty years after
he camd from New York in 181:1, and before he came to Anderson in
1870. But he had received a good education at some of the recognized
institutions of learning in New York before he came west. He began
the practice with flattering prospects. He was elected prosecuting
attorney in 1854 in his circuit comprising several counties, including that
of Marion, where he met at that bar those brilliant young scions of their
science, Benjamin Harrison and Jonathan W. Gordon. And so satis-
factorily did he discharge his duties as the state's attorney, that he was
retained as a deputy in the same place for ten years after the expira-
tion of his own term, and during which time, the convictions accredited
to him numbered nearly nine hundred.
In the latter portion of his life he made a specialty of patent law,
and he finallj^ drifted into this branch exclusively. He had undoubt-
edly a greater practice in this field than any other attorney in this
county.
Mr. Chipman was the recipient of several political honors of which
any one might be proud. He was the fii-st mayor of the city of Nobles-
ville. He wa.s chosen to a seat in the legislature of 1857, and later he
was made the collector of internal revenue in his district under a com-
mission signed by Abraham Lincoln.
John A. Harrison was a contemporary also of the above named
Nestors. And in the days of his prime he was a foeman worthy the
steel of any of them. He took up the law in the process of a natural
development rather than from any set purpose in the start. He was a
scholar, a mathematician, a civil engineer, a grammarian and acquainted
with the Greek and Latin languages. He taught in the schools, but
was induced to accept the office of justice of the peace and here his keen
208 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
and versatile mind grasped the grandeurs of the law, and he resolved
to pursue it. He served two terms, in 1862 and 1864, as prosecuting
attorney. He was counsel for the Bee Line Railroad for twelve years.
And he was retained in many cases of importance in this and other
counties. He was profoundly versed in the lore of the law and gave to
its practice his undivided attention.
As an instance of his sagacity as an adviser, the following is recalled :
A tax had been voted in several townships, to aid in the construction
0^ the Cincinnati, Wabash & Michigan Railroad. Afterwards, however,
this promotion became very unpopular, the tax payers in great num-
bers had permitted the tax, to go delinquent and petitioned the auditor
of the county not to advertise or seek to collect the tax. This official
was uncertain as to the action he should take. He realized the feeling
of his constituents. But he knew also that if he should act contrary
to law, he would become liable on his bond and might suffer serious
damages for his mistake.
In this dilemma he consulted John A. Harrison who advised him to
advertise the sale, and let the tax payers enjoin the collection. Thus the
enraged tax payers could gain their point and the auditor would be
shielded by the court's decree, whatever the final outcome might be.
His counsel was followed.
Coming now to a more recent epoch of the bar in this county, we
find the name of Joseph T. Smith who was bom and grew to manhood
in Boone township and came to the county seat about 1870. He was
a careful, painstaking lawyer and enjoyed a large probate practice. He
associated himself with Charles L. Henry under the firm name of
Smith & Henry, and this continued for several years until 1878 when
Mr. Smith moved to Manhattan, Kansas, where he died in 1907.
Calvin D. Thompson was a well known young lawyer who showed
forth at this bar in the seventies. He devoted himself largely to the
criminal practice, and built up a numerous clientage. This however fell
away in later years. His health becoming uncertain, he moved with
his family to Indianapolis, Indiana, about 1881, and lived but a short
time afterward. He was a man of the warmest heart, of open mind and
generous impulses. He was survived by his faithful wife and daughter,
well remembered by old Andersonians.
One of the brightest young men who ever lived in Madison county
was August S. McCallister, a son of one of this county's early inhab-
itants, who figured in the political and social affairs of the community,
highly respected and often honored by his fellow-men. Augustus S.
McCallister was endowed by nature with language rarely possessed. He
was a graduate of the Ann Arbor Law School and a member of the
Madison county bar. In 1874 he was elected prosecuting attorney for
the counties of Madison and Hamilton, but after serving for two years
resigned.
As an orator he never had a superior in the local field and was
equaled only by the late Captain William R. Myers. Captain Myers
was more dramatic in his oratorical flights and raised his audience to
the fullest height, while McCallister was calm and deliberate, his
eloquence coming from the depths of a soul enwrapped in his utterances
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 209
and a heart that knew no boinuls of afl'ection. His voice was clear and
melodious and touched the tender chords of human nature as his words
fell upon the ears of his auditors. He was well versed in the political
issues and was always in demand upon the hustings in his district.
While attending the law school at Ann Arbor Mr. ilcCallister had
an honor conferred upon him that he treasured as a pleasant memory
through life. Hon. Stephen A. Douglas visited the city of Chicago, the
students of the law school called upon him to pay their respects, and
young McCallister was selected to make the address presenting the
party of students. This is said to have been one of his finest oratorical
eiforts. His address was much appreciated by Jlr. Douglas and ap-
plauded by his classmates.
^Ir. jMcCallister was a brilliant writer and to this talent may be
attributed, to some extent, his abandoning the pursuit of law. He was
a lover of political excitement and contributed to the local press many
well written and sometimes scathing articles on the political situation.
He was also for a time an editorial writer on the staff of the Anderson
Standard, the columns of which during that period can tell better of
his ability than any words of his biographer. Men of less intellectual
caliber have tilled high places and many who were his inferiors in edu-
cation and natural ability have been chosen to offices of trust and honor
in his immediate surroundings. He was content with the things that
were to be. He aspired to no political preferment, the only office he ever
held having been thi-ust upon him. While he had his dislikes for some
men, as all humankind possesses, they were not malicious. He could
forgive and forget. His hand was as open as his heart and he was as
generous towards the faults of others as he was in bestowing alms upon
the poor. He gloried in espousing the cause of those whom he admired
and was classed with his friends. His love for his fellow-man was deep-
seated and the embers of affection for those he loved died only when
the last spark of human life left his body, in the year 1881, in a lonely
ward in a public hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, whither he had gone
a few months before.
Fulsome praise is often bestowed upon the unworthy and men who
have no real claim to prominence are frequently eulogized because of
surrounding inflxiences. This sketch is penned in remembrance of one
who was worthy of all the good things that could be said of him, while
drawing around him the drapery, hiding the faults to which he was
heir.
Leander M. Schwin was born in Monroe township, in this county,
in 1847. He worked on his father's farm, and later attended the law
school of Valparaiso University, being a graduate of its first law class in
1881. He and E. B. McMahan immediately thereafter constituted a
firm which engaged in the practice for two years at Alexandria, follow-
ing which they came to Anderson. Here W. A. Kittinger .ioined them
when their "shingle" read, "Kittinger, Schwin & McMahan." Mr.
Mc]\Iahan withdrawing from the firm in 1887, the other two remained
together until the death of Mr. Schwin.
Mr. Schwin was endowed with a fine legal mind, and applied him-
self closely to his work and with pronounced success. But being nat-
210 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
urally of a frail constitution his health began to give way probably
in 1890 or 1891. He spent the greater part of 1893 in Colorado, in an
effort to build up his health, but without avail, and in November of
that year while en route home, he breathed his last. And the Madison
county bar had lost one of the gentlest, brightest and best equipped of
its members.
To the same period also belongs Ed\\dn P. Schlater, who when yet a
young man in his teens, migrated from his native state of Pennsylvania
to "Wayne county, Indiana, in 1856. He was engaged in work upon some
of the public records, of that county when his skill which was great in
that line, was noticed by no less a person than Thomas a. Hendricks,
who recommended him to Col. William C. Fleming, clerk of the court
in this county, and who was then in need of a deputy.
Mr. Schlater came to Anderson in 1865 and became useful not only
in the clerk's office, but from time to time in several of the other county
offices in the keeping of the books and the transaction of the business
connected with the same. And his expert knowledge and thorough
familiarity with the county records became of incalculable value after
the fire of 1880, which destroyed the old courthouse and burned, or
partially burned, many of the records and papers then kept in it. But
Mr. Schlater was able to identify and restore some of the more important
of these documents which otherwise would have been a total loss.
But the gifts of Edwin P. Schlater were not to be confined to the dry
details of records and accounts. His mind took a wider range and it
was no great while until he had proven himself to be an efficient statute
lawyer. He began the practice of law in 1878. He was more familiar
than any attorney of his time at this bar with the provisions and prac-
tice relating to drainage, gravel roads and probate matters, and for
many years he enjoyed an enviable and lucrative class of business along
those lines. He was industrious, prompt to fill his engagements and
strictly honest and reliable, and those traits combined with habits of
social, moral and family faithfulness made him one of the best of
Anderson's citizens. The year of his birth was 1840 and that of his
death 1894.
George M. Ballard arrived in Elwood from Belpre, Ohio, in the
seventies. He lived and kept his office there many years for the prac-
tice of law in this and adjoining counties. When the town of Elwood
was changed into a city, Mr. Ballard became its first city attorney. In
1886 he removed his residence to Anderson and opened a law office here.
He was recognized as one of the strong lawyers of the bar when he
came to the county seat and his business was soon all that he could take
care of. He was the city attorney of Anderson during a term, also of
the towns of Pendleton and Lapel. He was for many years solicitor for
the Pan Handle Railway Company and for the Belt Railway Company
of Anderson. But besides his corporation practice he appeared on one
side or the other of many noted civil and criminal causes tried in Madi-
Son and other counties.
The triumphs of Mr. Ballard at the bar are worthy of recital owing
to the simple fact, if upon no other ground, that he rose to his com-
manding place there through the native strength and poise of his own
HISTORY OF JVIADISON COUNTY 211
«
brain, unaided and alone, and without the preparation of a profes-
sional or even a literary training. He felt the loss and need of these or
at least thought he did, and often spoke of it with regret. But the ranks
of the profession are sprinkled with disciples of the law who had
enjoyed these advantages fully and who were yet but pigmies by the
side of George M. Ballard as they opposed him in the actual conflicts
of the trial and in his telling arguments before the jury.
One instance of his sway in this regard is worthy of recall. It was
his defen.se of jouug Overshiner on the charge of murder in the first
degree. The probability of guilt on the statement of the case seemed
probable. But the defendant was the son of a devoted friend of his
counsel, and no labor was spared, no detail of evidence was left unsifted
that would help or hurt his client. He traveled to distant states to take
the depositions of witnesses whose testimony he needed. It was a defense
prompted by the loyalty of friendship and not for any fee. The whole
being and ambition of George M. Ballard at the time was wrapped up
in this effort. The day for trial, after long delay and the complete
readiness of Mr. Ballard, came on. The state was represented by able
counsel. But the exhaustive preparedness of the defense, the relentless
determination and above all the burning eloquence of Mr. Ballard
poured forth upon the understandings of men direct from a soul wholly
convinced of the innocence of his client and the righteousness of his
cause could not be withstood, and the verdict could only be what it was,
"not guilty." The return of that verdict, Mr. Ballard often said after-
ward, was one of the happiest moments of his life. And it was an
achievement worthy of such an expression and of a great legal battle.
The chivalric demeanor, the courtesy and good cheer of George M.
Ballard toward the members with whom he came in contact must ever
remain in the memory of each among its happiest treasures.
Captain William R. Myers was an honored member of the Madison
county bar. He joined the ranks of this profession rather late in life.
And his popularity among the people was such that, after doing so,
he was spared but little time for the close work required at the lawyer's
desk and in the courts. Still he was there long enough to definitely
and meritoriously identify himself with the practitioners of the county,
and to make it clear that he .belonged to the large school of attorneys
who believed in the law as a science and in its employment for the help
and good of individuals and communities.
Captain Myers was bom in Ohio in 1836 and was brought by his
parents to this county the same year. He had the advantages of a good
education for those times. And after he had grown up and passed
from the academy, he taught several terms of school. He served as the
county surveyor for several years beginning with 1858. But he could
not stay at home while the integrity ot the Union was in the balance.
In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, Forty -seventh Indiana
Infantry, and fought through the whole bitter struggle among the
"bravest of the brave."
Returning from the field of war. Captain Myers again became a
teacher and for several years was at the head of the Anderson schools.
After this he took up the study of law and served as prosecuting attor-
212 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ney in 1872 and 1873. He was elected to congress in 1878. After his
term of service there and a brief interval of two years he was elected
to the oflSce of secretary of state and reelected two years afterward.
In 1892 he was called by the people to fill that office again, being the
only person who has ever had three terms in the office of the secretary of
state in Indiana.
One of the remarks of pride which the partisans of Captain Myers
make of him is that he would have been governor of his state had he
not declined to stand for the nomination in 1892. And this is in all
probability true, for it was generally understood that his party would
give him the nomination without opposition should he desire it, and
he had run ahead of his ticket in -every race he had made for popular
suffrage. But he was suffering from the severe injuries which he had
sustained in a wreck of the Big Pour train, on which he was a passenger,
and he was afraid to hazard the strain and anxiety of a campaign and of
public duties. Putting himself out of the race, Claude Matthews was
placed at the head of the Democratic ticket, which was elected.
Captain Myers was a forceful figure in politics. In his best days, it
was difficult to find his equal on the stump. He was in demand in every
locality of the state when a campaign was on, and his refreshing magical
utterances hung and swayed his audience on every syllable. Daniel F.
Mustard, his life long friend and an advocate of his merits as an orator
insists that he did not exaggerate in once writing him up as the ' ' Cicero
of the West." And the Hon. Charles E. Henry, in a happily worded
tribute to him at the meeting of the bar on the occasion of his death,
which occurred on April 10, 1907, among other things, said, "that
William R. Myers had done more to make Anderson and Madison
county known throughout the state of Indiana than any other man. ' '
Looking to the personal qualities of Captain Myers, one finds no
lack of the desirable. Big of mien and big of heart, open-minded,
candid, fair. Artless as a child and generous to a fault. But the mod-
ern vocabulary is insufficient, except it borrows from the old, to fitly
describe him, and his character may be best set forth in the words of the
immortal poet of whom he was so fond and whose lines he so well inter-
preted,
"His life was gentle, and the elements
So mixed in him that Nature might stand up
And say to all the world, 'This was a man!' "
Several others of the present generation of lawyers have gone out
forever, among whom may be mentioned David W. Wood, who came
to the bar in 1878, served as prosecuting attorney by election in 1884,
and by appointment at the instance of the governor in 1889. He and
William R. Myers were associated as partners at law for several years.
In 1893 he formed a similar relation with Willis S. Ellis, which con-
tinued to the death of Mr. Wood, on the 26th day of June, 1901. He
enjoyed a good practice. He went about his work in a quiet way, and a
superficial notice might have given the impression that he did not do
much in his profession. But a thorough examination found him asso-
ciated from term to term with some of the heaviest and best paying
litigations.
HISTORY OF JMADISON COUNTY 213
Mr. Wood was one of the most companionable of men. Sunny by
nature,, he took time and occasion to cultivate the jovial and joyous
side of life. Neat in dress and tine in person, he carried an easy pass-
port to every social function, and they were many, which he graced.
His death, sudden and tragic, was a shock and a sorrow to the whole
community, and to the bar a loss of that agreeable nature the touch of
which indeed, "makes the whole world kin."
The rise of Gilbert R. Call in his profession was rapid and remark-
able. He was born near Elwood in 1866. But when sixteen years of age
his father with his family sought a home in the hills of Arkansas. Gil-
bert , however, not being satisfied to remain long in that region returned
after two years to his boyhood haunts. He was without money, except
such as he earned through his own exertions. He taught tive terms -of
school in Tipton and Madison counties. Then he took up the study of
law with Judge Cassius M. Greenlee in Elwood, where he made such
progress that he was soon admitted to the bar and began the practice
in 1888. It was but two years after he began that the Sheet and Tin Plate
Company of his native city retained him to look after its legal interests
in this and other counties. In 1906 he was engaged in active legal work
for the United States Steel Corporation and for which service in the last
year of his life, his salary was advanced to the sum of $700 per month.
The emplojTnent of Mr. Call by both the above corporations had con-
tinued from the time of his engagement until the date of his death, and
with every probability, as those closely associated with him know, of
still higher promotion in the service of his wealthy clients, had not the
dread summons of the universal foe come to him at the early age of
forty-two. He passed away on December 4, 1908, of abdominal inflam-
mation following an operation for appendicitis.
Edmond F. Daily is still remembered. He was another of the self-
made disciples of the law. He was bom in the "back woods" of Bar-
tholomew county. During his boyhood days, he worked hard at the
usual routine tasks on his father's farm and attended the country
school in the winter. In this way he gathered some insight of the com-
mon branches, then he found his way to the Hartsville Academy, in
attendance at which he made good use of his time and added to his
store of knowledge. Following this he read law and was admitted to the
bar at Shelbyville, Indiana, in 1883. He came to Anderson in 1885,
from which time his progress in the practice was steady, until failing
health checked his energies two or three years before his death, which
occurred on September 17, 1910.
Mr. DaDy has sometimes been referred to as a case lawyer. And
certainly to the cases in which he became deeply interested, he made a
great effort and showed no little skill in his examination of law and
evidence for the support of his side of the controversy.
But the most pleasant, perhaps the most impressive gift of Mr.
Daily was his droll and unique humor. This he possessed in abundance,
and by him was frequently given expression orally and with the pen in
veins of such piquancy and surprise as to engulf his hearers into
laughter and applause. His description of the forty-story building on
the site of the courthouse in the Ixwm days was a fetching bit of ridic-
214 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
uloufi imagination. And his picture of the slowness and hesitation by
which the few country folks approached the place where once upon a
time he was billed for a speech fell nothing short of that fine power
which is able to turn a situation extremely embarassing iato one genu-
inely funny.
Among the brothers of the bar called by the "grim reaper" to final
account in recent years, none presented a character more odd, per-
haps, than that of John T. Ellis.
He ?tood SLK feet three and one-half inches in his socks, and he often
stood in them. He was slender ia build, and this only rendered more
curious his habit while yet unmarried of leaving his hotel and visiting
his office and business places on 4he way, before breakfast and before
making his toilet. Often without donning a top shirt he would throw
a coat over his undershirt and with this loosely buttoned would walk
the streets undaunted. Yet he possessed a certain fastidiousness as to
his dress, and indulged ia some very good clothes. In this indeed he
exhibited another trait somewhat out of the ordinary, for he purchased
most of his wearing apparel in England and Canada. He visited these
countries frequently, £ind maintained that he was always able to get his
"duds" through minus any custom duties. How he was able to do this
and to make such voya.ges never ceased to puzzle the other members of
the bar, but he went, that is certain.
Mr. Ellis was bom ia 1856, came to Anderson about 1891, and died
March 23, 1909. He was not overly industrious in the consultation of
authority in the preparation of a cause which he might have in hand.
But his agreeable social qualities put him on good terms with many of
his fellow attorneys. He did iiot hesitate to utilize their knowledge,
and when a legal question of difficulty confronted him, he would call
upon one or more of his good lawyer friends and draw them out on his
knotty poiats until he had gathered such information as he deemed
sufficient.
In general and current literature, he was well posted, and his con-
versation, ready and enriched with its southern flavor, never failed to
earn for him a hearty hearing. The loss of his genial, kindly presence
has been keenly felt, while he is remembered with that warmth that is
never lost to those who are kindly and genial.
Yet another name belongs to this necrology— the name of one for
whom there was such regard that it seemed he might have been living in
.our midst a lifetime when the hour had come for him to say "Farewell."
His residence, however, had been here since 1893 only, at which time
he arrived, cheerfully took up and so pursued his work till the 3d day
of July, 1910, when without a murmur he laid it down, though still in
the meridian of his intellectual strength and usefulness.
The bar and public appreciated the worth and service of Thomas
Bagot from the start. And it is doubtful whether any one ever came
into this community a stranger, as he did, who was more quickly or
more fully received iato its coafidence than was he. Whether this was
due more to the modest bearing which marked his manner, to the just
and logical processes of his mind or to the deep sincerity of his faith
in man and respect for his fellows, we do not kno^v. But all are aware
HISTORY OF IVIADISON COUNTY 215
to a certainty that the trust reposed in him was not misplaced. The
early impressions of him but strengthened with the length of time.
Each new acquaintance, each word with an old one, enlarged the treas-
ury of his friendships. And in the light and warmth of these affections
and of his whole career, its close could have come as it plainly did, only
as a shock to every heart that held kinship with his.
The life of Thomas Bagot was an active one, full of the hard strug-
gles that bring self-reliance and usually accompany success. He was
born in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, August 19, 1851, but while yet a
tender youth was taken by his parents to Ripley county, Indiana,
whither they then moved for residence on a farm. Thomas then
attended the public schools of his neighborhood. He easily mastered the
branches there taught and some that were not found in the limited cur-
riculum of the common schools in his day. Thus while yet a young man
he was himself well qualified to teach, and he began to do so in the
country schools. But a promotion was soon waiting for him. He was
selected as principal of the school at the town of Canaan, Jefferson county
at which he remained for several years. Then he was connected for a
time with the Moore's Hill College where he became an instructor iu
mathematics and conducted a Normal course. He served one term as
county school surperintendent of Ripley county. And a glimpse at the
breadth of his acquirements may be had also in the fact that he filled
the office of surveyor during a term in his old county. But the measure
of his learning in this particular may be better judged from the book
entitled "Plane Surveying" of which he is the author. This work, first
published in 1883, has passed through several editions, is consulted by
students and is in wide use by civil engineers in active service. It is a
model of directness and plain statement. Brushing aside the needless
verbiage and involved propositions that had burdened the pages of
former treaties on the subject, he fused in the light of an intelligent
generalization a crisp brevity, and brought forth a much needed and
practical text book.
And besides the volume which he produced, other evidences abound
of his literary taste. For he possessed a fine collection of books, includ-
ing some rare ones and many by standard authors. With these through
years of careful reading, he had cultivated a fond familiarity. And few
were the important topics of learning with which he had not some his-
torical acquaintance.
From 1886 to 1893 Mr. Bagot engaged in the insurance business at
Newcastle, Indiana. It was during this period that he met Miss Georgia
Byers, a most gracious and estimable lady, who in 1896 became his mfe.
In addition to his duties as an insurance agent at Newcastle he gave
some attention, as he had even prior to that time, to the study of law.
And when he settled in Anderson, he was ready to commence practice.
His success was certain from the first, and his law business grew steadily
on during all of his seventeen years at the bar, and which was, at the
time he was obliged from failing health to give it up, in amount and
character a splendid monument to his honorable and faithful devotion
to his profession.
216 HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY
List op Attorneys Who Have Practiced at the JIadison County Bar
Thomas C. Anthony, Clarence H. Austil, L. D. Addison, 0. A. Arm-
field, Lot. Bloomfield, Hiram Brown, Joseph S. Buckles, Ovid Butler,
Lueian Barbour, Nathan Brag, George M. Ballard, Guy Ballard, Perry
Behymer, Andrew J. Behymer, David L. Bishop, Richard Broadbent,
John Beeler, Thomas Bagot, Charles Bagot, E. S. Boyer, Blaine H.
Ball, William S. Beeson, Sparks L. Brooks, Arthur Beckman, Joseph
Cox, William Carpenter, Franklin Corwin, Hervey Craven, T. C. S.
Cooper, DeWitt C. Chipman, Marcellus A. Chipman, E. B. Chamness,
Albert C. Carver, Albert E. Carver, Bartlett H. Campbell, Gilbert R.
CaU, Edward R. Call, Arthur C. Call, Kenneth L. Call, Jacob L. Crouse,
Charles Clevenger, Patrick J. Casey, John Davis, Byron H. Dyson,
William S. Diven, Albert Diven, Edmvind F. Daily, Morey M. Dmilap,
A. L. Doss, Samuel Deadman, Miles C. Eggleston, Joseph E. Elliott,
Floyd S. Ellison, Alfred Ellison, William F. Edwards, James H.
Edwards, WilUs S. EUis, John T. ElUs, William Eldridge, Calvin
Fletcher, Cyrus Finch, James Forsee, Frank P. Foster, D. H. Fernandes,
Sam C. Forkner, James M. Farlow, Morris E. Fitzgerald, Joe G. Field,
Wade H. Free, James Gilmore, Harvey Grigg, William Garver, Lemuel
Gooding, Eli B. Goodykoontz, Cassius M. Greenlee, Elbert S. Griffin,
William Herod, C. D. Henderson, Abram A. Hammond, Mason Hughes,
John A. Harrison, S. W. Hill, Charles L: Henry, J. W. Hardman, James
M. Hundley, Edgar H. Hendee, Nicholas Harper, Edward J. Hall,
George E. Haynes, Paul Haynes, Blanchard J. Home, Lewelyan B.
Jackson, William H. Jones, Dee R. Jones, Ancel Jones, William H.
Johns, Samuel Johnson, David Kilgore, Alfred Kilgore, Obed Kilgore,
William A. Kittinger, Sanford M. Keltner, Lewis E. Kimberlin, Frank
Kimball, Elbert E. Kidwell, Richard Lake, Jolin W. Lovett, Frank A.
Littleton, Isaac A. Loeb, Earnest B. Lane, William 0. Lee, Addison
Mayo, William R. Morris, Bethnel F. Morris, James Morrison, W. H.
Mershon, David Moss, Allen Makepeace, Simeon C. Martindale, William
R. Myers, Linfleld Myers, Eli P. Myers, Samuel B. Moore, Frank
Mathews, James A. May, Lawrence V. Mays, Carl Marrow, Loring
Mellette, Providence McCorry, Augustus S. McCallister. J. H. MeCon-
Bell, John F. McClure, E. B. McI\Iahan, J. B. Mclntire, Robert McLean,
James Noble, David Nation, Charles Nation, William O'Brien, Thomas V.
Orr, William R. O'Neil, Philip B. O'Neil, William J. Peaslee, Joseph
F. Polk, Winburn R. Pierse, J. W. Perkins, Luther F. Pence, Myron
H. Post, William Quarles, James B. Ray, Martin M. Ray, Reuben A.
Riley, James Rariden, Humphrey Robinson, Jacob Robbins, Milton S.
Robinson, Ward L. Roach, Henry C. Ryan, Marc Ryan, Edward D. Rear-
don, Christian Y. Rook, Austin Retherford, L. A. Rizer, John H. Scott,
James Scott, Jeremiah Smith, Oliver H. Smith, D. Lord Smith, Seth
Smith, Philip Sweetzer, Isaac Scearce, Earl S. Stone, Oliver P. Stone,
James W. Sansberry, Edwin P. Schlater, Albert A. Small, Jesse C. Shu-
man, William A. Swindell. William A. Spring, W. S. Shelton, John Shan-
non, Daniel W. Scanlon, Charles T. Sansberry, Glenda B. Slayraaker, Hor-
ace C. Stilwell, Carmon N. Sells, Charles H. Test, Howell D. Thompson,
Calvin D. Thompson, Amzi W. Thomas, John R. Thomburg, Mark P.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 217
Turner, John C. Teegarden, James A. Van Osdol, Albert H. Vestal,
James W. Vermillion, Frederick Van Nuys, Daniel B. Wick, William
W. Wick, James Whitcomb, John M. Wallace, David Wallace, Edgar
C. Wilson,, Thomas D. Walpole, Robert N. Williams, Addison D. Wil-
liams, William R. West, Francis A. Walker, David W. Wood, John E.
Wiley, Herman F. Wilkie, Robert F. Wilkie, Wendell Wilkie, E. M.
Welker, Simpn Yandes, William G. Zerface.
CHAPTER XIII
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION
The Pioneer Doct»b — His General Character and Method op
Treating Disease — His Standing in the Community — Balzac's
Tribute to the Country Doctor — Sketches of Early Madison
County Physicians — Medical Societies — Their History — Physi-
cians IN the Army — Pension Examiners — List of Registered
Physicians.
One of the most useful individuals in a new settlement is the physi-
cian, though the life of the pioneer doctor is not all sunshine and
roses. About the only inducement to a young physician to locate in a
frontier community, was the hope that he might "grow up with the
country." When the first physicians came to Madison county the
region was sparsely settled, no roads were opened and calls had to be
made on horseback, through the woods, the doctor frequently riding
long distances to visit his patients, who were scattered over a wide
expanse of territory. Money was rare in the frontier settlements and
the doctor often received his fee in fresh pork or cordwood. Some-
times he received no fee at all, but this condition of affairs did not deter
him from doing his duty and ministering to the sick. Viewed in the
light of modem medical progress, the old-time doctor might be consid-
ered a ' ' back number. ' ' There were no drug stores to fill prescriptions,
so he carried his stock of medicines about with him in a pair of pill-
bags — a contrivance composed of two leather boxes, with compartments
for a number of viaJs ; these boxes were connected with a broad strap
that was thrown over the rear of the saddle. Many times the early doc-
tor was not a graduate of a medical college, having acquired his pro-
fessional training by "reading" with some other physician. No X-ray
machine, or other costly or elaborate apparatus, graced his office. His
principal surgical instruments were the lancet, for letting blood, and the
turnkey, for extracting teeth, for the doctor was dentist as well as
physician. In his stock of drugs calomel, quinine and Dover's powders
were standard remedies, and every doctor knew the formula for making
' ' Cook 's pills. ' ' He had a wholesome contempt for germs and microbes
and frequently went about his business without considering whether he
was in an antiseptic condition or not. There was generally one redeem-
ing feature about the early physician. He did not assume to know it
all and as his business prospered he attempted to keep pace with the
times by attending a medical college somewhere, the bett' to qualify
218
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 219
himself for his chosen calling. Ilis patrons looked upon him as a friend,
as well as a professional adviser, and on the occasion of his visits to
their homes the best piece of fried chicken or the largest piece of pie
found its way to his plate.
In his travels about the settlement he heard all the latest gossip,
knew what was passing in the minds of the citizens, and this gave him
an opportunity to serve his neighbore in some public capacity. A list of
county officers shows that the doctor has often been called upon to dis-
charge the duties of some local official, to represent his constituents in
the state legislature, or even in the halls of congress. It is quite prob-
able that as many male children in the United States have been named
for the family physician as for the country's great warriors or states-
men. The great French novelist, Honore de Balzac, pays a tribute to
the country doctor when he says : " It is not without reason that people
speak collectively of tHe priest, the lawyer and the doctor as 'men of
the black robe' — so the saying goes. The tirst heals the wounds of the
soul, the second those of the purse, and the third those of the body.
They represent the three principal elements necessary to the existence of
society — conscience, property and health."
The first physician to locate in Madison county, of whoin any definite
information 'can be obtained, was Dr. Lewis Bordwell, who established
himself at Pendleton about the time the county was organized. He
remained there but two or three years, when he removed to Iowa, where
he practiced his profession until his death. Dr. Bordwell has been
described as a genial gentleman of pleasing personality. He had the
failing of "looking upon the wine when it was re"d," and sometimes,
when under the "influence," was wont to boast of his success as a
physician, declaring that he had never lost a patient.
. He was succeeded by Drs. John L. and Corydon Richmond. Dr.
John L. Richmond was bom in Massachusetts in 1785, studied njedicine
and Ijegan practice at Newton, Ohio, where he performed what was
probably the first recorded Cesarean operation in the United States.
About 1832 he located at Pendleton, where he was also pastor of a
Baptist church. A few years later he removed to Indianapolis and prac-
ticed there until 1842. In that year he received a paralytic stroke, when
he retired from practice and removed to Covington, Indiana, where he
died.
Corydon Richmond was a son of the above and was bom in New
York state in 1808. At the age of twenty-four he graduated at the Ohio
Medical College and began practice in Pendleton. Later he practiced in
Indianapolis for a few years and in 1844 located in Howard county,
Indiana. In 1863 he became assistant surgeon in a military hospital at
Nashville, Tennessee, but at the close of the war returned to Howard
county, where he passed the remainder of his life.
In 1833 Dr. Madison G. Walker located in Pendleton, where he prac-
ticed for nearly thirty years. He was a native of what is now West
Virginia. In 1862 he retired from practice and about twelve years
later removed to Jlissouri. When Frederick Douglass was assailed by a
mob in 1843, Dr. Walker rescued him. in which he was assisted by Dr.
Edwin B. Pussell, who had settled in Pendleton a few years before. A
220 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
little after Drs. Walker and Fussell came Drs. John II. and Ward Cook,
natives of Tennessee.
Dr. John H. Cook was a graduate of the medical department of the
University of Louisville and was one of the early specialists in diseases
of the eye and ear. In the treatment of cases of this character he was
frequently called to some of the larger cities. He loved debate, was a
fluent speaker, and in 1836 was elected to represent Madison county in
the legislature.
Dr. "Ward Cook made the journey from Tennessee on horseback. He
had previously studied medicine in his native state and soon after com-
ing to Pendleton was examined and licensed to practice in Indiana, his
license bearing date of October 20, 1832. Three years later he went to
Red Sulphur Springs, Virginia, where he practiced until 1849. In the
meantime he attended the Cincinnati College of Medicine where he was
graduated in 1839. In the spring of 1849 he returned to Pendleton, and
there resided until his death. He was actively engaged in the practice
of his profession for over sixty years and was a contributor to some of
the leading medical journals.
The first physician to locate in Anderson was a Doctor Burt. Little
can be learned concerning him, but it is supposed that he was Dr. Dickin-
son Burt, who was the first physician in Delaware county, locating there
about the time that county was organized. He came to Anderson about
1826 or 1827 and is said to have been also a school teacher.
In 1828 a Doctor Pegg located in Andereon and practiced there for
about two years, wh^n he was succeeded by Doctor Ruddell, who remained
there for about seven years, when he removed to Marion county. Neither
of these physicians have left much of their records in the county, and
little is known of them except what is here stated.
Dr. Henry Wyman, a native of New York state, began practice in
Anderson in 1831 and soon came to be recognized as a leader in his pro-
fession. His practice extended to all parts of the county and even to
adjoining counties. In connection vnth his professional work he was
also editor of a local newspaper. In 1864 he removed to Blissfield, Michi-
gan, where he died in 1892. In 1837 and 1838 he was elected to the legis-
lature from Madison county.
Other early physicians in Anderson were Dr. E. R. Roe, Dr. Andrew
Robb and a Dr. Carmean, but little can be learned concerning them or
their work.
Dr. Townsend Ryan was born at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1813.
Upon arriving at his majority he went to Hamilton, Ohio, and embarked
in mercantile pursuit and was also interested in canal transportation
between that city and Cincinnati. The panic of 1837 left him practically
stranded. He then entered Jefferson Medical College, of Philadelphia,
and upon receiving his degree from that institution he located at Lewis-
viUe, Henry county, Indiana. In 1842 he came to Anderson, where he
continued in practice for a quarter of a century. He represented Madi-
son county in the legislature in 1848, was one of the first vice-presidents
of the Indiana State Medical Society when it was organized in 1849,
and was lieutenant-colonel and colonel of the Thirty-fourth Indiana
Infantry in the Civil war. After the war he engaged in railroad build-
HISTORY OF ]yL\DISON COUNTY 221
ingr, in which he lost a second fortune, and then returned to the practice
of medicine.
Dr. John Hunt, a native of Wayne county, Indiana, began the prac-
tice of medicine in Iluntsville in 1839. Some years later he removed to
Anderson and still later to a farm in Lafayette township. He had a
large practice in each of these localities and became a power in politics.
It has been said that he could dictate the nominations made by the Demo^
cratic party for all the offices in Madison county. He served as state
senator for iladison and Hancock counties in 1851-53 and in 1860 was
elected county treasurer. He died at Springdale, Arkansas, July 23,
1895.
His brother, William A. Hunt, was also a physician of prominence,
in the county in his day. He was a small boy when the family settled
at HuDtsville. He attended Starling Medical College, Columbus, Ohio,
and began practice on a farm about four miles north of Anderson. In
1868 he removed to Anderson, where he first engaged in the drug busi-
ness, but soon resumed practice, in which he continued until within a
few days of his death. He was president of the old county medical
society during the entire period of its existence and was a writer on mis-
cellaneous subjects of more than ordinary ability.
Dr. John W. Westerfield was born in Preble county, Ohio, June 1,
1816, and came with his parents to Payette county, Indiana, in 1828.
He studied medicine in Rushville and in 1839 settled in Madison county.
He owned the first drug store ever established in Anderson and practiced
his profession there for many years. His death occurred on September
29, 1895. In early life he was a Methodist, but later espoused the cause
of the Spiritualists, and at the time of his death was president of the
state association, a position he had held from the time the association
was first organized.
Dr. W. P. Briekley was one of the early physicians of the county.
He first settled in Fall Creek township, where he practiced for several
years. Then attracted by the inducements offered in the West, he went
to Iowa. A few years later he returned to Madison county and opened
an office in Anderson, where his son, Eugene T. Briekley, is now engaged
in the drug business. Doctor Briekley is remembered by old-timers as a
popular and successful physician.
Dr. Thomas N. Jones located in Anderson a few years before the
beginning of the Civil war, having previously practiced in Hancock
county and at Pendleton. He served as assistant surgeon of the Second
Indiana Cavalry and later as surgeon of the One Hundred and Thirtieth
Infantry in the Civil war. He was a successful physician, always man-
aged to secure the confidence of his patients, and stood high in the
esteem of his brother practitioners. He was twice elected to the state
legislature— in 1872 and 1874. He died in 1875.
Contemporary with Dr. Jones was Dr. George F. Chittenden, who
began practice in Anderson in 1858, as a partner of Dr. John Hunt.
In the spring of 1861 he entered the army as assistant surgeon of the
Sixteenth Indiana Infantry and upon the reorganization of the regi-
ment a year later was made surgeon. Subsequently he served as brigade
surgeon, medical director of the Fourth Division, Thirteenth Army
222 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Corps, and at the siege of Vieksburg was inspector and director of that
corps. In 1868 he was elected to the legislature for the district composed
of the counties of Madison and Henry, and in 1873 was appointed one of
the directors of the Central Insane Asylum, a position he held for eight
years.
Other Anderson physicians of prominence in days gone by were
Noah L. Wickersham, Benjamin P. Spann, Chauncey S. Burr, D. M.
Carter, Oscar Ardery, Zimri Hockett, William J. Fairfield, Jesse P.
Crainpton, Dewitt Jordan, Luther B. Terrill, E. H. Menefee, L. P.
Ballenger, William Suman, Thomas J. McClenahan and Joseph F. Bran-
don. The last named practiced for several years at Perkinsville and
after removing to Anderson engaged in the drug business. Dr. Wick-
ersham practiced for thirty-five years in Anderson and was a poet of
considerable ability. Dr. Spann was a native of Jefferson county,
Indiana, located at Anderson in the fall of 1860 and continued in prac-
tice there for thirty-four years. He was a member of the state, county
and American medical associations. Dr. Burr was born in Middletown,
Indiana, in 1840, graduated in medicine in 1865 and practiced for fif-
teen years in Anderson, ten years in Mitchell, South Dakota, and four-
teen years in Chicago, where he died in 1905. Dr. Carter was a mem-
ber of the first Madison County Medical Society and was for a time
its treasurer. After several years successful practice in Anderson he
went to Randolph county and died there. Little is known of Drs.
Ardery, Ballenger and Jordan. Dr. Hockett was one of the most emi-
nent and successful physicians in the county in his day and enjoyed
a large practice. His son is now a practicing physician of Anderson.
Dr. McClenahan, a promising young physician, died at an early age,
before he had an opportunity to establish his reputation. Dr. Fairfield
practiced twenty years in Anderson. He was a finely educated man, a
graduate of Bellevue Medical College of New York, and was a "chalk
talk" lecturer — a talent he often employed in addressing medical socie-
ties. In 1907 he removed to Delta, Colorado. Dr. Crampton was a
native of Ohio. He located at Anderson in 1852 and practiced there for
fourteen years, being part of the time engaged in the drug business.
Dr. Terrill was bom in Missouri, graduated at the Medical College of
Ohio, practiced for a while in Cincinnati, located in Anderson in 1895
and died in 1910. He was a skilful surgeon and while in Anderson was
surgeon for the American Steel and Wire Company. Dr. Menefee came
to Anderson about 1860 and was secretary of the old medical society
from 1862 to 1867. He was a native of Virginia. Dr. Suman was a
native of Madison county and practiced there for thirty-eight years,
twenty-two of which he was located in Anderson and the other sixteen
in Frankton.
As early as 1828 a Dr. Henry located at Chesterfield and not long
after a Dr. Kynett also settled there. Drs. Balingall and Preston, of
Middletown, also made visits to the settlers about Chesterfield, though
neither of them were ever located in Madison county. Early in the '30s
Dr. George W. Godwin began practice at Chesterfield, but a little later
removed to Yorktown, Delaware county. Dr. David Dunham settled on
a farm a short distance northwest of Chesterfield in 1834 and in 1847
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 223
a Dr. Davis located there. These were the pioneer physicians of Union
township.
One of the first physicians in the county was Dr. William Goodell,
who located in Jackson township, on the site of the present village of
Halford, in 1825. He did not remain long and little is known of his
career as a physician. Absalom Paris also practiced in that neighbor-
hood at an early date. He died in 1870.
In the old village of Prosperity was Dr. WiUiam Paris, who came
to Madison county in 1825. He was both physician and preacher. He
was succeeded at Prosperity by Dr. Joseph Saunders, who practiced in
the county for twenty-five years, and who was the first president of the
Madison County Farmers' Insurance Company.
At Huntsville the first physician was a Dr. McCain, who was also a
merchant. 'Following him came Dr. John Hunt, previously mentioned,
and Dr. Joseph Weeks, who began his professional career there but later
removed to Mechaniesburg, Henry county.
In 1840 a number of physicians came to the county. Dr. John Horn
located at New Columbus (Ovid) and was the first physician in that
village; two brothers, Drs. James and John Barrett, settled at Fishers-
burg; later in the year Dr. William Kynett also located there; Dr.
Thomas Douglass located at Perkinsville, and Dr. Robert Douglass where
the city of Elwood now stands. About this time a Dr. McNear located
.at the old village of Moonville, in Richland township. Doctor Horn
remained at Ovid but a short time, going to Middletown and later to
Yorktown. He was succeeded by Dr. Hildreth in 1842, Dr. W. B. Bair
in 1844, and during the next few years Drs. Clark, Smiley and Barry all
located there.
Dr. W. F. Spence established himself in practice at Alexandria in
1839— the first physician in that town. In 1842 Dr. John W. Perry
came and for a time was in partnership with Dr. Spence. Dr. Spence
later removed to Jonesboro, Grant county, where he died. Another early
physician in Alexandria was Dr. Cyrus Westerfield and not long after-
ward came Dr. David Perry. A few years later Drs. S. B. and Leonard
Harriman located in Alexandria. The former afterward removed to
Richmond, Indiana, and the later to Sterling, Kansas. Both are now
deceased.
Dr. Robert Douglass was the first man to practice medicine in what
is now the city of Elwood, having located there twelve years before
the town was laid out. Sometime in the '40s Dr. J. i\I. Dehority located
in that vicinity and engaged in the general practice of m.edicine. He
accumulated a fortune and during the last fifteen years of his life was
engaged in the banking business. Dr. John Beck and his son Thomas
were also practicing physicians of Elwood. Dr. Beniah T. Callaway
first began practice in Alexandria in 1849, but a year later removed to
Elwood, where he practiced for thirty-nine years. He was also inter-
ested in banking operations.
The first physician at Frankton was Dr. John M. Laughlin, who
located there in 1854. He died not long afterward and his widow mar-
ried Dr. Philip Patterson. Other eai-ly physicians here were Dr. Reuben
Harvey, Dr. W. M. Sharp and a Dr. *f oung. Since their day a number
of physicians have practiced in Frankton.
224 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Dr. Thomas Benton Forkner, son of Micajah and Elizabeth Allen
Forkner, was born in Liberty township, Henry county, Indiana, in 1840.
He studied medicine with the late Dr. Magann, of Hagerstown, who
served as surgeon of an Indiana regiment in the Civil war, and in 1862
graduated at the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati. The following
spring he began practice at Clark's Station (now Florida), in Madison
county, where he continued until 1865, when he removed to Anderson
and practiced there until his death, which occurred in October, 1869.
Dr. Cyrus Graul located at Summitville in 1867, about the time the
toWn was laid out, and three years later Dr. C. V. Garrell located there.
Other physicians who practiced at Summitville during the latter part of
the last century were Samuel Brunt, John Wright, W. V. McMahan,
M. L. Cranfill and T. J. Clark. Dr. William J. Morgan practiced at
Oilman from 1870 to 1880. He was a charter member of- the present
Madison County Medical Society. He died on October 13, 1896.
Dr. Stanley W. Edwins, who has practiced his profession at various
places in the county, is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, where he
was born in 1836, of Huguenot ancestry. After graduating in medicine
he practiced in the South until the breaking out of the Civil war, when
he came to Indiana and located iirst in Randolph county. In 1865 he
came to Madison county. He was one of the first trustees of Frankton
when that town was incorporated, but later removed to Elwood, where
he has built up a large and lucrative practice. He is a member of the
board of United State pension examiners and is one of the best known
physicians in the county. In 1878 he was elected to represent Madison
county in the legislature.
MedicaIi Societies
The first medical society in the county had its beginning in a meeting
held on November 1, 1862, in Anderson. Physicians present were Town-
send Ryan, William A. Hunt, N. L. Wickersham, Henry Wyman, B. F.
Spann, William Suman, J. F. Brandon, E. H. Menefee, Philip Patter-
son, D. M. Carter and W. B. Bair. Dr. Wyman was elected to preside
and Dr. Menefee was chosen secretary. A constitution and by-laws were
adopted and the name of Madison County Medical Association was given
the new organization. At one time this association numbered twenty-
eight members. The last meeting of which there is any record, was held
on April 29, 1867. Dr. William A. Hunt served as president and Dr.
E. H. Menefee as secretary during the entire history of the association.
Dr. W. B. Bair was elected treasurer at the organization meeting, but
died six months later and Dr. D. M. Carter was elected to the vacancy.
Harden 's History of Madison County mentions a medical society,
which was organized at Pendleton in October, 1873. At the first meet-
ing Drs. Ward Cook, 0. W. Brownback, T. G. Mitchell, J. II. Harter and
W. H. Lewis were present. Dr. Cook was chosen temporary president
and Dr. Lewis temporary secretary. Invitations were sent to all regular
physicians in the county to meet at Pendleton on Thursday, November
13, 1873. At that meeting the society completed its organization with
thirteen members, viz. : Drs. Ward Cook, 0. W. Brownback, T. G.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 225
Mitchell and J. H. Harter, Pendleton ; B. L. Pussell and W. P. Harter,
Markleville ; Hiram Dnncan, Simeon Yancey, S. A. Troy, J. M. Jones
and T. K. Saunders, Fortville; J. M. Fisher, H. G. Fisher and Daniel
Cook, Fishersburg; W. H. Lewis, Huntsville; and D. H. Myers, New
Columbus. Dr. Hiram Duncan was elected president ; W. H. Lewis,
secretary; J. II. Harter, treasurer; Ward Cook, 0. W. Brownback and
Simeon Yancey, censore. The constitution provided for semi-annual
meetings — on the Tuesdaj- after the second IMonday in May and Novem-
ber. A few members were added at subse(iuent meetings, but in time
the interest waned and the society died of inanition.
On the last day of Augxist, 1875, the following physicians met at the
office of Dr. Chauncey S. Burr, in Anderson, and organized the present
county medical society : John W. Perry, B. F. Spann, Jonas Stewart,
V. V. Adamson, Walter H. Lewis, Oliver Broadhurst, George P. Chit-
tenden, N. L. Wickersham, W. V. McMahan, Joseph Saunders, WiUiam
J. Morgan, James E. Inlow, Daniel W. Cottrell, Cyrenius Free, Chauncey
S. Burr, J. T. Sullivan, Jeptha Dillon, William Suman, William A.
Hunt, J. M. Littler and H. E. Jones.
These twenty-one doctors constituted the charter membership of the
society. A constitution and code of by-laws were adopted and the fol-
lowing officers were elected : John W. Perry, president ; W. A. Hunt,
vice-president ; Jonas Stewart, secretary ; C. S. Burr, treasurer ; W. H.
Lewis, B. P. Spann and John T. Sullivan, censors. Since the organ-
ization of the society the membership has been increased until it includes
practically all of the physicians of the county who take a proper interest
in the uplifting of their profession. Following is a list of the presidents
of the society, with the year in which each was elected : John W. Perry,
1875 ; Ward Cook, 1877 ; George F. Chittenden, 1878 ; William A. Hunt,
1879; N. L. Wickei-sham, 1880; Jonas Stewart, 1881; Samuel P. Brunt,
1882; Horace E. Jones, 1883; B. F. Spann, 1884; William Suman, 1885;
John W. Hunt, 1886 ; I. N. Van IMatre, 1887 ; John W. Cook, 1888 ; N. L.
Wickersham, 1890; W. J. Fairtield, 1891; John B. Fattic, 1892; Benja-
min H. Perce, 1893; F. P. Nourse, 1895; John W. Cook, 1896; A. W.
Tobias, 1897; W. W. Kneale, 1898; 0. W. Brownback, 1899; G. A.
Whitledge, 1900 ; J. W. Covertson, 1901 ; A. E. Otto, 1902 ; J. M. Littler,
1903; William M. Garretson, 1904; Etta Charles, 1905; T. O. Armfield,
1906; P. G. Keller, 1907; L. E. Alexander, 1908; L. 0. Williams, 1909;
W. A. Bovden, 1910; J. E. Hall, 1911; P. F. Mendenhall, 1912; M. A.
Austin, 1913.
In many respects the secretary is a more important officer than the
president, as upon him devolves the duty of keeping the records and
notifying the members of any irapoFtant measure to come before the
society. It is therefore deemed appropriate to include a list of the secre-
taries. In this list the names occur in the order in which the secretaries
served: E. H. Menefee (secretary of the old society), Jonas Stewart,
Horace E. Jones, Charles E. Diven, William M. Garretson, W. N. Horn,
William Suman, Fred J. Hodges, John B. Fattic, E. W. Chittenden,
W. W. Kneale, G. A. Whitledge, A. W. Collins, 0. E. McWilliams, Lee
Hunt, M. A. Austin, Thomas M. Jones, B. H. Cook, S. C. Newlin, Etta
Charles.
226 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The officers of the society for the year 1913 were: M. A. Austin,
president; S. C. Nevvlin, vice-president; Etta Charles, secretary and
treasurer; 0. W. Brownback, L. P. Schmaus, F. F. ilendenhall, censors.
The following named physicians of Madison county served in the
Civil war, 1861-65, though at the time of their service some of them
were not residents of the county : George F. Chittenden, surgeon Six-
teenth Indiana Infantry and afterward iuspector and director of the
Thirteenth Army Corps ; John C. CuUen, assistant surgeon. Sixteenth
Indiana Infantry, promoted to surgeon; Thomas N. Jones, assistant
surgeon Second Indiana Cavalry and surgeon One Hundred and Thir-
tieth Indiana Infantry ; Townsead Ryan, surgeon Fifty-fourth Indiana
infantry and colonel of the Thirty-fourth : C. S. Burr, surgeon of a
regiment of colored troops ; Simeon B. Harriman, assistant surgeon
Thirty-fourth Indiana Infantry ; Teeumseh Kilgore, assistant surgeon
Eighty-fourth Indiana Infantry and surgeon Thirteenth Cavalry ; Stan-
ley W. Edwins, assistant surgeon One Hundred and Twenty-fourth
Indiana Infantry ; Benjamin H. Perce, in the ranks and as hospital
steward ; Horace E. Jones, in the ranks and later a lieutenant in the
United States navy ; Jacob H. Harter, in the ranks ; Jonas Stewart, in
the ranks and as corporal in the Eighth Ohio Cavalry.
At different times the following physicians of the county have been
called to serve upon the board of United States examining surgeons for
pensions : George F. Chittenden. John C. Cullen, Jonas Stewart, Charles
N. Branch, John B. Fattic and Benjamin H. Perce, of Anderson ; Stan-
ley W. Edwins, of Elwood ; and F. G. Keller, of Alexandria. The pro-
fession has also been well represented in the matter of holding county
offices or serving as members of the state legislature.
Registered Physicians, 1912
The subjoined list of Madison county physicians is taken from the
last report of the Indiana State Board of Medical Registration, for the
year ending on September 30, 1912:
Anderson — Charles L. Armington, John C. Armington, Maynard A.
Austin, Wilber A. Boyden. E. E. Brock, George F. Chittenden, Edgar
W. Chittenden, Albert W. Collins, Ernest M. Conrad. David M. Comer,
Benjamin H. Cook. James L. Cummins. Charles E. Diven. John B, Fattic,
Henry W. Gante, J. J. Graham. John H. Hammond. George II. Hockett,
William N. Horn, Lee F. Hunt, M. V. Hunt, Horace E. Jones, Thomas
]\I. Jones, W. W. Kneale. John H. Lail, James A. Long, Oscar E. Mc-
Williams, Doris Meister, Uberto H. Merson, Isaiah Miley, Weir M. Miley,
Albert W. jMiller, Elizabeth Mille^r, J. O. Morrison, Stanley C. Newli'n,
Samuel C. Norris, Thomas J. O 'Neill, Benjamin H. Perce, ]\Ioses A. Rush,
Albert H. Sears, Glen V. Sigler, Nancy E. Snodgrass, Jonas Stewart,
James McC. St-oddard, Silas J. Stottlemyer, Julius R. Tracy, Harley E.
Ward, G. A. Whitledge, Lucian 0. Williams, Samuel C. Wilson, Noah S.
Wood.
Elwood — John D. Armfield. Tilman 0. Armfield, Julius C. Blume,
Carol C. Cotton, Charles G. Dick, George W. Eddingfield, S. W. Edwins,
Ester M. Griffin, W. H. Hoppenrath, Nathaniel H. Manring, Franklin
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 227
W. Mendenhall, II. L. Miller, Luther A. Mott, G. V. Newcomer, M. L.
Ploughe, Chandler P. Runyau, Daniel Sigler, A. W. Tobias, E. L.
Wiggins.
Alexandria — Edmund J. Beardsley, Oliver S. Coffin, John J. Gib-
son, Joseph E. Hall, Frank G. Keller, A. B. JMereer, A. E. Otto, Augustus
R. Schaefer, Leonard F. Schmau.ss, C. D. Schurtz.
Pendleton — L. E. Alexander, Orlando W. Brownbaek, John W. Cook,
Horace C. Martindale, William R. Sparks, Frank L. Stone.
Summitville — Winser Austin, Etta Charles, J. D. Garr, Seth H.
Irwin, Lewis F. Mobley, F. W. White, John W. White.
Miscellaneous — Paul Armstrong and Amos B. Ballard, Oilman ; Eilan
V. Boram, Benjamin L. Petro and Charles M. Smethers, Marklevillej
Charles E. Conway, William M. Garretson and Virgil G. McDonald, Per-
kinsville ; Joel Cook, Orestes; John W. Covertson, W. J. PVench and J. L.
W. Peck, Frankton; John T. Newhouse, Chesterfield; John I. Rinne and
Thomas J. Stephenson, Lapel ; William P. Scott, Linwood.
CHAPTER XIV
CHURCH HISTORY
Moravian Missions — Monument — The Methodists — The Baptists —
Friends or Quakers — United Brethren — Roman Catholics —
Christians or Disciples — New Light Christians — The Lutherans
— The Universalists — Protestant Episcopal Church — Churqh
op God — Congregationalists — Spiritualists — Their Camp Grounds
AT Chesterfield — List op Churches in the Cities.
No doubt the first religious establishment in what is now Madison
county \^s the old Moravian mission on the White river, a short dis-
tance above the city of Anderson. About the close of May, 1801, John
P. Kluge and his wife, accompanied by Abraham Luckenbach, a young
man of twenty-four years, came from Goshen, Pennsylvania, where they
had passed the winter with the missionary Zeisberger, learning the
Delaware language, with a view to establishing a mission somewhere
in Indiana. With them came two Delaware Indians — Thomas and
Joshua — who had been converted to the Christian religion. This little
party first stopped at the Indian village on the White river, opposite the
present city of Mimcie, where it was proposed to establish the mission,
but the Indians, although they received the missionaries in a friendly
manlier, pointed out a place for them to settle, some distance down the
river, near the village of Kikthawenund, or Chief Anderson.
The place where this mission was located was called by the Indians
Wah-pi-mins-kink, or place of the Chestnut Tree, a large tree of that
variety standing near the center of section 17, about two miles east of
Anderson. Here the missionaries were welcomed by the Delaware chiefs
and, after living in bark huts during the summer, erected a substan-
tial log cabin for a permanent residence, into which they moved in
November, 1801. They made slow progress in their work of converting
the Indians, owing to a general distrust of and opposition to the whites.
In March, 1806, Lukenbach and Joshua went to the Indian villages on
the Mississinewa in search of a new location and soon after their return
to Anderson Joshua was charged with being a witch and was killed by
an Indian with a tomahawk.
Joshua was killed on St. Patrick's day — March 17, 1806 — and soon
after that the missionaries decided to ask the Moravian authorities at
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, for permission to abandon the mission. A
messenger was accordingly sent to Bethlehem and Kluge and his com-
panions waited through the summer, annoyed at times by .runken and
228
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 229
meddlesome Indians. Early in September the messenger returned bear-
ing the permission for the missionaries to return to Pennsylvania and
on September 16, 1806, they left the mission on the White river never
to return. The cabin erected by them remained standing for several
years and when the first settlers came to ]Madison county, about 1820
or 1821, they assumed that this cabin had been erected for a fort, be-
cause it was so much more substantial than the Indian structures that
had been erected in the vicinity by the Little Munsees after the de-
parture of the missionaries. Traces of this settlement could be seen
for many years, but the plow of civilization has at last destroyed them,
and the old Moravian mission is little more than a tradition.
In the fall of 1912 the chapter of the Daughters of the American
Revolution at Anderson decided to mark the site of the mission with
an appropriate monument, and began a canvass for funds. The monu-
ment was unveiled on Sunday, June 1, 1913, Jacob P. Dunn, of Indian-
apolis, delivering the dedicatory address. Arthur W. Brady made a
short address, Mrs. Arthur W. Brady spoke on behalf of the Daughters
of the Revolution, and the presentation speech was made by Mrs. Henry
Durbin. A special guest on this occasion was Jliss Alice Kluge, of
Hope, Indiana, whose father was the first white child born in Madison
county, having been born at the old misson, and whose grandfather was
killed by the Indians in 1806, not far from where the monument stands.
The inscription on the monument is as follows:
In Commemoration of
The Moravian Missions
To the Indians
Maintained on White River
South of This Spot, 1801-1806,
Erected by
Kikthawenund Chapter
Daughters of the American
Revolution,
1913
The Methodists
To this denomination belongs the honor of being the first to estab-
lish a regular religious organization in the county of Madison. Serv-
ices were held by itinerant Methodist ministers at the house of Elias
HoUingsworth, at Pendleton, as early as 1821, but no attempt was
made to found a church until in 1823, when Thomas M. Pendleton, his
wife and daughter, Mrs. Thomas McCartney, Mrs. Samuel Holliday,
Elias HoUingsworth and his wife, Samuel Hundley and wife, James
Scott and wife, and perhaps a few others, residing near the falls of
Fall creek, met and organized what was afterward known as the Pen-
dleton Methodist Episcopal church. For about nine years meetings were
held at the houses of the members. On April 28, 1832, Thomas M.
Pendleton and wife deeded to the trustees of the church the north half
of lot No. 32, upon which a log house of worship was erected. In 1839
230 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
this house was torn down and a frame structure with a seating capacity
of about six hundred was erected at a cost of $1,800. At the time it
was dedicated it was the finest church edifice in the county. In 1877
it was enlarged and remodeled and was used by the congregation until
the erection of the present handsome brick and stone house in 1905, at
a cost of about $15,000. Among the early pastors of this congregation
were James Havens, Edwin Ray, J. H. Hull and W. H. Goode, all of
whom afterward became prominent in the annals of Methodism.
As early as 1824 the few Methodists living in the vicinity of Per-
kinsville organized a class, with Benoni Freel as leader. The first
sermon preached here was by Rev. James Reeder. For some time the
little congregation held services in a log school house about half way
between Halford and Perkinsville, but with the coming of more set-
tlers the church grew in membership and about 1848 a brick house of
worship was erected in Perkinsville. It continued to be the home of
the congregation until 1888, when it was replaced by a larger and more
pretentious edifice. This was the first church organization in Jackson
township.
A few Methodists living in Green township, among whom were
Samuel Gibson and wife, John ]\Iarsh and wife, James D. Hardy and
William McCarty, organized a class in the fall of 1825 that afterward
became the Mount Carmel church. Meetings were held in residences,
school houses, etc., until 1848, when a house of worship was erected on
the farm of Henry Manifold, a short distance northeast of the present
town of Ingalls, where James Jones donated a small tract of ground for
the Mount Carmel cemetery in 1862.
The next Methodist church to be organized in the county was in the
town of Anderson in 1827. Prior to that time meetings had been held
in private residences, particularly the homes of Collins Tharp and
William Curtis. Among the first members were Collins Tharp and
wife, William Curtis and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Enoch Donahue, Mr. and
Mrs. Merrill, Henry Russell, Mrs. Harpold and Matilda Shannon. In
1839 Collins Tharp donated the congregation a piece of ground imme-
diately west of Delaware street, between what are now Eleventh and
Twelfth streets, for a church site and cemetery. Soon after that work
was commenced upon a house of worship there, but it was never fully
completed. Meetings were held there, however, for several years, when
the property was sold to J. E. D, Smith, who used the unfinished struc-
ture as a carpenter shop until it was destroyed by fire.
After the sale of this place to Mr. Smith, the congregation met in
the school house and other places until 1849, when two lots were pur-
chased of Robert N. Williams on the northeast corner of Eleventh and
Meridian streets, where a frame house was erected, at a cost of $1,200.
About 1869 the IMethodist congregation purchased a lot at the southeast
corner of Eleventh and Meridian, opposite the old frame church and
where the Union Building now stands, where they commenced the
erection of a large and commodious brick edifice. This church was
ccrmpleted in 1871, when the old frame house was sold to David W.
Swank, who removed it to the corner of Ninth and Meridian streets,
where it was used as a business house until destroyed by fire in the sum-
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 231
mer of 1886. In time ileridian street became a business street and the
Methodist con^egation sold the property and purchased a new location
at the southwest corner of Jackson and Twelfth streets, where the pres-
ent commodious and imposing house of woi-ship was erected in 1900,
at a cost of some $50,000. This church is known as_ the First Metho-
dist Episcopal church of Anderson. Since it was organized in 1827 three
other congregations of this denomination have been established in the
city — one on Noble street, Grace church, on Fourteenth street near
Cedar, and one in North Anderson — and missions are maintained in
the additions of Shadeland and Hazelwood.
According to Harden 's History of IMadison County, a Methodist,
society was formed at Fishersburg in 1827 and for a time met in pri- ,
vate houses. Then a small log church was erected and used until 1834,
when it was replaced by a larger one, also a log house, and this was sup-
planted by a frame buildnig in 1853, at a cost of $1,600. Among the
early ministers at this church were a Rev. Mr. Miller, W. C. Smith,
Lucien Berrj' and James Scott.
About the j-ear 1831 ]\Ianlj' Richards, Joseph Carter, Andrew Bragg,
Jacob and John Lambord, John Russe-ll, James W. Manifold and a few
other members of the Methodist faith organized a society at the old
village of Menden, in Fall Creek township, known as the Antioch
Methodist Episcopal church. Rev. J. N. Elsbury and Asa Beck were the
first ministers. In 1842 a small frame house of worship was built, and
it was used until 1868, when it became unsafe and a new one was
erected about a quarter of a mile northeast, at a cost of $3,000. After
the decline of Menden the church remained and meetings are still held
here, though the congregation has lost many of its members by death
and removals.
What is known as the Busby Meetiftg House was located on the south
bank of Lick creek, on the Warrington pike. A Methodist society was
organized in this neighborhood in 1835 and the house was erected soon
afterward. In 1865 the church was abandoned, the members uniting
with other congregations.
In the fall of 1836 James Hollingsworth and wife, Mrs. George
Mustard, and William Lower and wife met at the house of the last
named and organized themselves into a Methodist society, or class, the
first religious organization of any kind in Lafayette township. The
class grew in numbers, but no effort was made to erect a house of wor-
ship until 1855, when a frame structure was built where the village of
Florida now stands, at a cost of $1,700. Among the early ministers
were Revs. D. F. Strite, John Leach, J. W. Bradbury and John R.
Tansey. The trustees of this church have always been liberal and have
allowed other denominations to use the house, when such occupation
did not interfere with the regular services of the congregation.
The first church in Pipe Creek township was a Methodist society,
which was formed at the residence of Reuben Kelly, a short distance
east of the present town of Frankton, in the summer of 1836. The first
members were Reuben Kelly, William Taylor, John Chamness, Jacob
Speck. Amos Goff. Joseph Miller and their wives, and perhaps a few
others. At first this congregation was a part of the Anderson circuit
232 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and the first preachers were the circuit riders. Among them were
Hezekiah Smith, J. F. Stiles and J. C. Bradshaw, whose names are
well remembered by old-timers. In 1867 the society removed to Frank-
ton, where a comfortable house of worship was erected, and where the
church is still located.
Mount Tabor Methodist church was organized in the northwestern
part of Monroe township in 1838. The members first held their meet-
ings in private houses, then in school houses until 1850, when a church
was erected at cost of about $1,200. Samuel McMahan, David Osborn,
Wright Smith, David Austin and wife and Louisa McMahan were
among the first members. James Havens, Hezekiah Smith and John
Hull were some of the first preachers. After a number of years this
church was abandoned, the members associating with other convenient
Methodist congregations.
About 1840, a Methodist church was organized in the town of Alex-
andria. In 1845 the first house of worship was erected and was used
by the congregation until 1873, when a new structure was commenced.
It was completed early in the year 1876 and was dedicated on June
6th of that year. The cost of this edifice was about $7,200. This build-
ing, which stands at the corner of North Canal and Broadway streets,
has since been remodeled and added to, in order to provide better ac-
commodations for the growing congregation. At the time this church
was organized it was a part of the Pendleton circuit, but later was
transferred to the Anderson circuit, where it continued until the Alex-
andria circuit was organized. The congregation was the first to be
organized in Alexandria.
About two and a half miles west of Pendleton, on the Noblesville
pike, is the Pleasant Valley Methodist church, which was the outgrowth
of a class formed by Elder Donaldson in 1841, at the house of Samuel
Dobson. In 1852 Mr. Dobson removed to Iowa, after which the meet-
ings were held at the house of Andrew ShankUn until 1865, when a
frame church was erected on the farm of George A. Williamson, just
west of Foster's branch. Previous to the erection of this house the
class had been regarded as a branch of the church at Pendleton.
In 1851 a Methodist society was organized at the house of Aaron
Taflfe, in Boone township, by Rev. William Boyden. Seven members at
that time united to form the church and Wright Smith was chosen class-
leader. Not long after that he built a log church at his own expense.
This building was afterward sold to the township for a school house and
a frame church was erected. In 1853 a Sunday school was organized,
with Wright Smith as superintendent. Owing to the activity of Mr.
Smith in promoting the welfare of this congregation, the church was
named "Smith's Chapel." It is located on section 21, a short dis-
tance north of Duck creek.
A class was organized by the few Methodists living in the locality,
at school house No. 5, Jlonroe township, about two miles east of Alex-
andria, in 1854. It was known as the Manuering class and was a
branch of the Methodist church at Alexandria. No house of worship
was ever built and after some years the class disbanded, though at one
time it numbered about seventy members.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 233
The Markleville Methodist Episcopal church was organized about
1850 and meetings were held at the residences of Stephen Norman and
Ralph Williams, and later in an old log house. In 1856 a neat frame
house of worship .was erected, at a cost of $1,400, a short distance
south of the town, where services are still held.
Wesley Chapel Methodist Episcopal church is located on section
8, in the northwestern part of Richland township. A few j'ears before
the beginning of the Civil war a few Methodists living in that neigh-
borhood began holding meetings in the Holston school house. In 1860
a neat frame house, with a seating capacity of about four hundred, waa
erected, at a cost of $1,200. A Methodist congregation had been organ-,
ized in this township as early as 1832 by Elias Hollingsworth and
Joseph Barnes, near the Union township line. In December, 1832,
Joseph Barnes donated an acre and a half of ground in the southwest
quarter of section 28 for a church site, and soon afterward a log house
of worship was erected, taking the name of Asbury Chapel. In 1870
a new frame church was built on the northeast corner of section 29, on
the south bank of Killbuek creek, at a cost of $1,500, and was dedicated
by Rev. Dr. Bowman, president of Ashbury (now DePauw) University,
on September 13, 1870.
In the fall of 1861 Rev. R. A. Newton organized a Methodist society
with twelve members at the Minnick school house, in Duck Creek
township. Five years later a small house of worship was erected by John
Reel on the f arm.of G. H. Harting. It was known as ' ' Reel 's Chapel ' ' and
was used by the Methodists and New Lights alternately for many years.
Rev. John Pierce, Robert Goodin and a few others organized a
Methodist church at Chesterfield in 1870 and the following year a
house of worship was erected. For some time services were held every
two weeks, but the congregation did not prosper and the church was
finally dropped from the circuit.
The first camp meeting in the county was held by the Methodist
Episcopal denomination in 1832, about three miles southwest of Pen-
dleton, on the farm known as the Samuel Hundley place. Rev. James
Havens and other Methodist ministers were in attendance. The meet-
ing was pronounced a success and similar gatherings were held there
annually for many years, usually in the later summer or early autumn.
On the farm of "J. R. Holston, near the Wesley Chapel above de-
scribed, was the Wesleyan Camp Meeting Association grounds, where
camp meetings were held by the Methodists for many years prior to
1880 and were largely attended. After that the interest waned and in
a few years the meetings were discontinued.
The First Methodist Episcopal church of Elwood was organized not
long after the to-svn was laid out in 1853. The present house of wor-
ship, one of the finest in the city, is located at the corner of North A
and Anderson streets, directly opposite the postoffice building. It was
erected in 1899, at a cost of about $30,000.
There are also Methodist Episcopal churches at Lapel and Sum-
mitville, where the congregations are in a healthy condition and own
handsome church edifices.
Rev. James Puekett organized the First Methodist Protestant church
234 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of Elwood, with fourteen members, about 1865. Ten years later the
membership had increased to about sixty and a house of worship was
erected at a cost of $1,000. This was probably the first society of this
denomination in the county. The present place of worship is on South
D street, near Anderson, where a comfortable frame house has been
erected for the use of the church and the Sunday school.
On April 17, 1866, a Methodist Protestant church was organized
at Hamilton, Jackson township, by Rev. Elias Wilson. For several
years meetings were held in the school house or at the homes of the
members, but in 1879 a frame house was erected in Hamilton, at a cost
of $1,000, for the use of the congregation, which then numbered about
thirty-five members. This building was dedicated on October 19, 1879,
by Rev. J. H. Luse, president of the Indiana conference. A Sunday
school was organized about the time the new church was built.
Since the organization of these two ^Methodist Protestant churches,
a congregation of that denomination has been formed in the city of
Anderson. The house of worship is at the corner of Fifth and Locust
streets.
In iladison county there are three colored Methodist churches —
two in Anderson and one in Alexandria. In 1873 the colored Method-
ists of Anderson organized what is known as the Second Methodist
Episcopal church. Not long after it was formed a small frame build-
ing, located at 1125 Delaware street, was purchased for the use of the
congregation and meetings are still held there regularlj^
Allen Chapel, African Methodist Episcopal church, was organized
in 1890. For about six years meetings were held in such places as
could be obtained, but in 1896 the membership had increased to about
thirty and steps were taken to build a house of worship. A lot on the
corner of Sixteenth and Sheridan streets was secured and a neat frame
house erected thereon. It is considered one of the prettiest small church
buildings in the city.
Shortly after the discovery of natural gas, the colored Methodists
of Alexandria got together and formed themselves into a congregation.
Meetings were held at the comer of West and John streets for several
years, but recently the congregation has purchased the brick church
edifice formerly used by the Baptists, located at the corner of Berry
and Black streets.
The Baptists
After the Methodists, this denomination was the next to establish
itself in Madison county. Two Baptist churches were organized in the
year 1830 — one in Pendleton and the other near New Columbus, in
Adams township.
Among the first members of the Pendleton Baptist church were
Nathaniel P. Richmond, J. L. Richmond, Martin Brown and their wives,
Elizabeth Irish and Susannah Richmond. Nathaniel Richmond was the
first preacher. In 1834 a church building thirty-two by forty feet was
erected. It was used by the congregation until about 1854, when a
larger house was built, at a cost of $1,400. A few years later, while
Rev. Mr. Wedge was pastor and P. R. Maul was clerk, a dissension arose
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 235
between these two persons that finally split the congregation in twain
"by a Maul and Wedg:e," as it has been expressed in a sort of jest.
The church, unable to continue its career successfully, sold its house
of worship to the F'rieuds, most of the members transferring their
allegiance to the Baptist church at Anderson.
The Adajns township congregation was organized about the same
time as the one at Pendleton. For a while meetings were held at the
residences of Caleb Riddle and Ira Davis. New members came in
gradually, and in 1834 a small house of worship was built about half a
mile south of New Columbus. Among the early preachers here were
Nathaniel Richmond, Morgan McQuary, \V. A. Thompson and William
Judd. A small cemetery was laid out near the church, where some of
the Adams township pioneers found their last resting place. This
church, known as the "Pewee Baptist Church," held meetings reg-
ularly for over forty years, but about 1875 it began to wane in strength
and influence. After that meetings were held at irregular intervals
for some time and then ceased altogether.
In 1834 a few Baptists met at the house of Mrs. Rebecca Collier,
about a mile and a half southeast of the present town of Markleville,
and organized a church, with thirteen members. There is some diversity
of opinion as to when the first building was erected by this congrega-
tion. Harden says a house was built in 1837, at a cost of about $500,
and other authorities state that it was built in 1852. All agree, how-
ever, that it was twenty-four by thirty-six feet in size. In 1872 this
house was torn down and a new one of larger dimensions erected, at
a cost of $2,800. In both instances J. F. Collier gave the ground upon
which the church building was erected, the new house being about half
a mile north of the old one. It was dedicated by Rev. Joseph M. Brown,
of Indianapolis, October 3, 1872, and is known as the Union Baptist
church.
The Bethel Baptist church, located three miles north of Markle-
ville, was organized about 1836. Until 1853 meetings were held in the
school house near that point, but in that year a frame house of worship
was erected, at a cost of $1,000. James F. Collier was the first pastor.
The first trustees were Jackson Judd, James Ellison and Silby Clark.
About 1862 a division arose that destroyed the usefulness of the church
and some years later a denomination known as the Church of God
came into possession of the house.
On June 18, 1842, the Little Killbuck Old School Baptist church
was organized at the residence of Moses Maynard, with ten members.
Rev. W. A. Thompson was the first pastor. In 1844 a log church was
built on the farm of Christopher Maynard, near the southern boundary
of Richland township. At the regular meeting in July, 1871, a dif-
ference of opinion occurred \ipon some doctrinal point, which resulted
in several members withdrawing and taking with them the church rec-
ords. This faction held meetings in the school house until a council of
the neighboring churches decided the other side to be the regular
church. But the mischief had been done. After a precarious existence
of a few years the congregation ceased to hold meetings and the church
went down.
236 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
In 1843 Rev. Nathaniel Richmond organized a Baptist church at
Fishersburg, where a small house of worship was erected the next
year. Mr. Richmond acted as pastor for some time, but the congrega-
tion was never strong enough numerically to carry the burden of organ-
ization and after about twenty years it gave up the effort.
John W. Forrest founded the village of Forrestville, on the north-
west quarter of Section 21, Boone township, in 1850, and about three
years later a Baptist church was organized there. Mr. Forrest, who
was a local preacher of that denomination, officiated at the organiza-
tion, but Rev. James Smith is said to have been the first regular pastor.
In 1857 a neat frame church was erected, at a cost of about $1,400. It
stood upon Mr. Forrest's farm and was known as "Forrest Chapel."
After several years the society became disorganized.
A congregation known as the Mount Pisgah Baptist church was or-
ganized in Monroe township in 1856, about four miles northeast of
Alexandria, by Rev. John W. Forrest. No church was ever erected,
the meetings being held in school house No. 6. The society was never
very strong and after about twenty yeai-s it was abandoned, the mem-
bers afSliating with other convenient Baptist churches.
Four miles northwest of Alexandria and a mile east of the old vil-
lage of Osceola, the Lilly Creek Baptist church was established in 1858,
though meetings had been held in that neighborhood as early as 1852.
The first pastor was Rev. James E. Ellison. On May 2, 1868, the church
was reorganized and in 1871 a frame church building was erected at
a cost of about $1,000. It was dedicated on the first Sunday in August
of that year.
Through the efforts and influence of J. B. Anderson, a Baptist
church was established at Chesterfield in 1869, with Rev. J. C. Skin-
ner as pastor. Regular services were held for four or five years, but no
house of worship was ever erected. Then, weary of the struggle for
existence, the little flock disbanded, the members uniting with the Bap-
tist church at Anderson.
It may seem strange that no Baptist church was organized at the
county seat for nearly fifty years after the erection of Madison county,
but such is the case. On October 23, 1871, a number of members of
this denomination residing in Anderson, in conference with members
of the Baptist congregations at Pendleton and Chesterfield, organized
the First Baptist church of Anderson. On January 2, 1872, the Ches-
terfield church was consolidated with the new organization, and it was
followed on the 23d of the same month by the Baptists of Pendleton.
On October 19, 1872, the building committee appointed by the chiirch
purchased of the trustees of the Presbyterian congregation their house
of worship on Meridian street for $2,000. Previous to the sale of this
property the Presbyterians had borrowed $1,000 from the state school
fund and placed a mortgage upon their church. This mortgage was
assumed by the Baptists. At that time the Baptist congregation num-
bered about thirty members, none of whom could be called wealthy, and
after holding meetings for some time in the building they were unable
to pay the mortgage. The building was therefore sold by the state to
satisfy the loan made to the Presbyterians some years before. This
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 237
church occupied the lot upon which the Hurst block now stands, on the
west side of Meridian street, between Tenth and Eleventh. In 1890 the
Baptist church was reorganized by Rev. J. W. Porter. During the
next three years meetings were held in Oriental hall and such other
places as could be conveniently secured for the purpose, but in 1893
a lot at the corner of Fourteenth and Lincoln streets was purchased,
upon which was erected a house of worship. It was not completed for
nearly three j^ears after work on it was commenced. In May, 1896,
the building was formally dedicated and since that time the church has
been prosperous, ranking today among the strongest religious organiza-
tions in the city.
Zion Baptist church, about two miles north of Summitville, was
organized in February, 1874, with Rev. J. J. Laugdon as the first pastor.
In 1878 a frame house of worship was erected, at a cost of about $700.
This church is located on section 17, a short distance east of the Mich-
igan division of the Big Four Railroad.
The Baptist church at Alexandria was organized on December 23,
1895, and for some time held meetings in the Red Men's hall. As the
society grew in strength it was not long until a small house of worship
was erected at the corner of Berry and Black streets. This building
was recently sold to the colored Methodists and the Baptists bought the
old Congregational church edifice at the corner of West Church and
Canal streets, where they have a comfortable home.
One of the strongest Baptist churches in the county is the First
Baptist church of Elwood. It was organized about twenty years ago
and has been fairly prosperous ever since it -was established. In the
summer of 1913 a new house of worship was erected by this congrega-
tion at the corner of South D .and Anderson streets, which is regarded
as one of the handsomest churches in the city.
The first Baptist sermon in Van Buren township was preached at
the house of Thomas Cartwright, a short distance south of Summit-
ville, but the date of that meeting is veiled in uncertainty. Meetings
were held from time to time after that, and the result was the organiza-
tion of a Baptist church, which now has a fine brick building on East
Mill street in the town of Summitville. The former house of worship
occupied by this congregation was recently sold to the Dunkards.
A colored Baptist society, numbering about thirty members, was
organized in the city of Anderson in 1890. It is styled the Second
Baptist church. After meeting in various places for some time, a lot
at the corner of Eleventh and Sherman streets was purchased and a
small hou.se of worship erected, where meetings have since been held
regularly.
German Baptists or Dunkards
Probablj^ the first society of this denomination in Madison county
was the one organized near Summitville at an early date, but no reli-
able information concerning its early history is obtainable. For a
number of years the congregation owned a one-fourth interest in the
house of worship erected jointly by the Dunkards and Christians, or
Disciples, on section 31, on the farm once o\vned by Thomas Cart-
238 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Wright. The outgrowth of this organization is the present Dunkard
church of Summitville, which not long ago purchased the old Baptist
church on East Mill street, one square east of the new Baptist church.
In 1860 Elder George Hoover organized a Dunkard church about
a mile north of Ovid, in Adams township. For several years meetings
were held in the school house or at the homes of the members. In 1873
a brick house of worship was erected near the north line of section 7,
at a cost of $2,500. It was two stories in height, the upper floor being
used as an auditorium and the basement exclusively for the celebration
of the Holy Communion. At one time this congregation was large and
prosperous, but it has been weakened by deaths and removals until reg-
ular meetings are no longer held.
A German Baptist society was organized in the western part of
Green township in 1872 and soon afterward a house of worship was
built on the farm of David Richards, near the southeast corner of sec-
tion 21. This church is known as "Beech Grove Church," though it
is sometimes called "Frey's Church," on account of the long services
of Rev. Enoch Frey as assistant pastor.
About 1890 a few members of this denomination in Anderson began
holding meeting among themselves at their homes and in 1892 a small
Dunkard church was erected on McKinley street, between Twenty-first
and Twenty-second. The congregation is not strong, but the few mem-
bers are zealous in support of their church.
Fkiends or Quakers
Among the early settlers in Fall Creek township were a few mem-
bers of this peculiar sect. In May, 1834, Enos Adamson and his wife
deeded to Hezekiah Morgan, William Hunt and Abraham Adamson,
trustees for the Society of Friends, a tract of three acres in the south-
west quarter of section 15, near the present village of Huntsville, for a
consideration of fifteen dollars, the ground to be used as a church site and
cemetery. Later in the year a society was formed at the house of
Jonathan Thomas and in 1836 a small log meeting house was erected
upon the ground purchased two years before. Jehu Middleton was the
first regular preacher. The Pendleton society was a branch of the
Milford monthly meeting until 1839, when it became an independent
monthly meeting. In 1857 the society erected a frame house, at a cost
of $800. For a time the Whitewater quarterly meeting was held once
a year at this church, which was abandoned some years ago, so that
there is now no regular place for holding meetings in the township, al-
though a number of that belief still reside in the vicinity of Pendleton.
On January 13, 1894, a few Friends in Anderson met and organized
a society, under the leadership of Rev. W. S. Wooton. For a while the
meetings were held in the second story of a frame building on West
Tenth street. Then the residence at the northeast corner of Fourteenth
street and Central avenue (206 East Fourteenth street) was purchased
and converted into a meeting house. Two years after the organization
of the society it numbered about one hundred members. It continued
to gain in strength and in the summer of 1913 purchased the brick
HISTORY OP^ MADISON COUNTY 239
church formerly occupied by the Hope Congregational church, at the
southeast corner of Tenth and Chase streets. The Friends also have a
church in Lapel.
United Brethren
As early as 1835 the few members of the United Brethren faith liv-
ing near Chesterfield organized a society and built a brick house of
worship. Among the first members were Daniel and Brazleton Noland,
John Suman, "William Dilts and their wives, J. C. Guston and Henry
Russell. The last named was selected as class leader and a minister
named Smith was the first pastor. The church erected by this little
band stood on the tract now occupied by the county poor farm. A small
graveyard adjoined the church, where some of Union township's pio-
neers lie buried, among them Allen Makepeace, William Dilts and John
Suman. This society has long since become extinct.
Sometime in the eai-ly '40s a few believers in the doctrines of the
United Brethren assembled at the house of Samuel Gentry, a short
distance east of Perkinsville, and organized themselves into a congre-
gation. William Parkins was one of- the moving spirits and was the
tii-st preacher. He was frequently invited to other localities to conduct
services and on one occasion walked eighteen miles to preach ;i funeral
sermon. For about ten years meetings were held at the homes of the
members or in the school house, but in 1852 the church became strong
enough to justify the erection of a frame house of worship in Perkins-
ville, at a cost of about .$1,000. Here the congregation worshiped for
many years, and unless the house has been recentlj' torn down it is still
standing.
As early as 1836 a small society of United Brethren was organized
in Hancock county, not far from the Madison county line, by Rev.
David Storer. Meetings were at first held in a school house in Hancock
county, but as most of the members lived in the vicinity of the old vil-
lage of Menden, the first house of worship was erected there about 1844.
The first preacher here was a man named Steward. At one time this
society numbered about sixty members and was in a flourishing condi-
tion, but it became so weak'ened in time that meetings were held irreg-
ularly for awhile and then abandoned altogether. In the meantime a
society had been organized in the town of Pendleton, where some of
the Menden congregation renewed their membership in the church.
The United Brethren church at Pendleton is a neat, substantial structure
on the corner of John and High streets.
In Duck Creek township the United Brethren organized the first
religious society and built the first house of worship in 1852. When
organized by Elder Samuel Purtee, the congregation numbered but
eight members. Subsequently they united with a few New Light Chris-
tians in the erection of the "Union Church." on the farm of W. F.
Hollingsworth, in the southeast quarter of section 16. After a time
the New Lights passed out of existence and left the United Brethren in
control.
Another old United Brethren church is located a short distance
south of Summitville, in the old building formerly occupied by the
240 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Diinkards and Disciples, but no reliable information concerning its
early history has been found. Originally this house fronted in the op-
posite direction, having been turned around when the road running past
it was straightened so that it was on the other side of the building.
The old graveyard here is upon ground donated by Thomas Cartwright,
one of the pioneers 'f Van Buren township.
The United Brethren church in the city of Anderson was organized
in the fall of 1889 by Rev. J. T. Roberts, at Westerfield's hall, on North
Main street, where ths meetings were at first held. In December, 1892,
a small house of worship at the corner of Sansberry and Eleventh
streets was dedicated, and here the congregation held services until the
completion of their present handsome and commodious. ch.yirch, at the^
corner of Ninth street and Madison avenue. ,,,,. h^, i |, .,
This denomination has a prosperous congregation and a handsome
church building at Lapel, and the same may be said of Elwood. The
church at Elwood is located at the comer of North H and Fourteenth
streets. It is a substantial frame house, and,' while not protentious in
appearance, furnishes the active and flourishing congregation with a
comfortable home. What is known as Beech Grove church in Lafay-
ette township was built by the United Brethren, but has not been used
by them for years. There is also a church of this faith located ia what
is known as the Innisdale addition at Alexandria. The congregation
is small, but composed of earnest workers, and owns a neat frame house
of worship.
The Catholics
While the Indiana Central canal was under construction in the lat-
ter 'UOs, many of the men working upon it w^ere members of the Roman
Catholic church. In order that they might have their spiritual needs
properlv attended to, Fathers Frangois and Bacquelin visited the dif-
ferent gangs of -workmen from Logansport to Anderson, celebrating
mass in such places as could be obtained. The first mass in Anderson
was said in a log tavern that stood at the southeast corner of Central
avenue and Ninth street in 1837. Other pioneer priests followed them,
saying mass in Anderson and in the Quinlan settlement on the prairie,
southeast of the town, but it was twenty years before any attempt was
made to organize a parish or establish a church.
In 1857 Father Clark came as a missionary and for a few months
celebrated mass in the courthouse. The following year he began the
erection of a brick building, to be known as St. Mary's church, on the
northeast corner of Eleventh and Fletcher streets, but it was not com-
pleted until 1864, at which time Father McMahon was in charge. In
January, 1866, he was succeeded by Father Crawley, who in May, 1870,
started a movement for the erection of a new church. Accordingly, the
lot just across the street, on the southeast corner of Eleventh and
Fletcher streets, was purchased, the corner-stone of the new building
was laid on July 4, 1875, and on May 29, 1877, it was dedicated.
Rev. J. D. Mulcahey came to the parish in 1891 and found that the
church building was too small to accommodate the Catholic families
of the parish. After consultation with some of the leading Catholics,
HISTORY OF .MADISON C'OCXTY 241
it was decided to orwt a new eliurcli upon the site of the one that had
been built in 1864, and wliit-h was tlien used as the paroehial school
house. It was torn down, the corner-stone of the present building was
laid on July 9, 1893, and on October 6, 1895, it was dedicated. The
cost of this building was aliout .+41,000.
Previous to 1860 nuiss was celebrated at irregular intervals in EI-
wood by missionary priests, the tir.st ceremony of that character having
been celebrated in the residence of John Huchanan. In 1860 Ehvood
became a "station" and was regularly attended by Father McJIahon,
then pastor at Andei'son. From 1865 to 1884 Ehvood was attended by
Father Crawley and under his charge the station became a "mission."
In February, 1880, Bernard Bauer and James Cornelius were given
authority by Father Crawley to solicit and receive funds for the erec-
tion of a church. The first church was a small brick structure, dedi-
cated in the fall of 1881. It cost about $1,500. Eight years later the
mission became a parish, under the name of St. Joseph's, and Rev. B.
Biegel took charge as the first resident priest on Sunday, July 28, 1889.
In 1892 the little church was enlarged to three times its former size,
at a cost of $2,500, but it soon became evident that a new one was neces-
sary. Father Biegel began the collection of funds for that purpose in
1894, the corner-stone was laid on October 8, 1899, and the building
was dedicated on July 14, 1901, by Right Rev. H. J. Alerding, Bishop
of Fort "Wayne. The cost of the church, with its interior decorations,
was $60,000.
The Catholic church at Alexandria was first established as a station
and was attended by the priests from Anderson. When St. Joseph's
parish at Ehvood was established in 1889, Alexandria became a mission
under the charge of Father Biegel, who held services there twice a
month. Early in the '90s St. Mary's parish was organized and a resi-
dent priest assigned to Alexandria. A few years later the present
church, a commodious brick structure, was erected at the corner of
Madison and Belmont streets. Rev. F. P. Faust is the present pastor.
Christians or Disciples
The first church of this denomination in Madison county, of which
any record can be found, was organized at Frankton in 18-39, by Daniel
Franklin, at the house of Elijah Ring. Among the thirty members,
who were at that time enrolled, were Daniel and Joseph Frankli'i and
their wives, Edmund Johnson and wife, Elijah Lawson and wi"', and
^Ir. and ^Irs. Henry Plummer. About 1854 a majority of the inombers
of this congregation transferred their membership to Ehvood. In 1859
they came back and assisted in the reorganization of the Frankton
church. A frame house of woi-ship was erected in 1867 and since that
time regular meetings have been held.
About 1840 a few Christians living in the northwestern part of
iVIonroe township began holding meetings at their homes ana shortly
afterward organized themselves into the Lilly Creek Christian church.
Their first meeting place was a log house, where they held services until
>..! I-IG
242 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
1871, when a frame church was built on section 3, not far from the Boone
township line. The house cost about $1,800.
In 1848 a meeting was held at the Baptist church near New Columbus
and a Christian societj' was organized with Andrew Bray, J. I. Seward,
Jesse Van Winkle and Eli Hodson as elders. Meetings were held in
the Baptist church, in school houses and elsewhere until 1852, when a
frame house was erected near the southeast corner of section 15, about
two and a half miles northeast of Markleville. This building was
destroyed by fire about 1854, but another was soon afterward erected at
a cost of $1,400. For many years this congregation flourished and then
began to dwindle, owing to deaths, removals and other causes. Meet-
ings finally ceased and the old house of worship was sold to Thornton
Rector, who converted it into a residence. In its prosperous days, this
church was known as "White Chapel."
A Christian church was organized at Alexandria in 1852, with a
small membership, although meetings had been held in the town for
several years prior to that date. Among the early members were Jacob
Cassell, Martha Cassell, Joseph Fenimore, John McMahan, Elizabeth
Fitch and Aunt Betsy Perry. A house of worship was erected in 1853
and used by the little congregation until about 1863, when it was de-
clared unsafe and was abandoned. Some of the members then went to
the Lilly Creek church and others to other societies, but in November,
1875, the Alexandria church was reorganized by Rev. William McKen-
sey and most of the former members came back. Since then the society
has prospered and now owns a neat and substantial frame house of wor-
ship at the comer of Berry and West streets.
I New Hope Christian church, also called the Chambers church, was
organized in 1854 with seven members, viz. : Hiram and John Chambers
ajid their wives, Susan and Mary Chambers, and Nancy Scott. Not long
after the organization, Hiram Chambers donated a small tract of
ground near the south line of section 27, Richland township, for a
church site. In 1869 a frame house was erected thereon at a cost of
about $1,500.
About 1857 Rev. Carey Harrison, a Christian minister of Hamil-
ton county, came to Hamilton (now Halford) and held a "protracted
meeting" in an old school house a short distance west of the village.
At the close of the revival a Christian church was organized with about
a dozen members. Elder Harrison continued to act as pastor for sev-
eral years. No house of worship was ever erected by the society and
about 1876 the meetings were discontinued.
What is now the Central Christian church of Anderson had its
beginning back in the '50s, when Elders Jameson and New, of Indian-
apolis, came to Anderson as missionaries of the denomination. Serv-
ices were held at the Chestnut Grove school house, a mile east of the
"Crossing," and at other places until 1858, when a society was organ-
ized. Among the pioneer members were Burket Eads, Joseph Sigler,
John R. Stephenson, William Mustard and John Kindle. The first
"house of worship was erected in 1861 at the northwest corner of ]\Iain
and Thirteenth streets and the next year Rev. Joseph Franklin, of
Covington, Kentucky, became pastor, a position he held for twelve
years, during which time the membership increased to ovr one hun-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 243
dred. The present handsome and coiumodious church edifice of this
congregation, located at tlie northwest corner of Tenth and Jackson
streets, was erected in 1899-1900. It cost about $45,000 and is one of
the finest church buildings in Anderson.
During the winter of 1859-60 Rev. George Newhouse, a Christian
minister, visited Van Buren township and held services in Allen's school
house, about a mile south of Summitville. James, Thomas and Ellen
Hudson and Byron Vinson and wife were among the early members of
this denomination to settle in that locality, and they were among the
first members of the society that was organized by ilr. Newhouse. In
1873 a frame house, thirty-two by forty-four feet, was erected about a
mile south of Summitville, at a cost of about $1,500, and a Sunday
school was organized. The Dunkards held a one-fourth interest in this
house, but a few years ago both the Christians and Dunkards removed
to the town of Summitville, turning the house over to the United
Brethren. The Christian church building in Summitville is a neat
frame structure and the society is in a flourishing condition.
Four miles north of Pendleton, in the southeast corner of Stony
Creek township, Forest Chapel Christian church was organized on
June 10, 1860, with sixteen members. A frame house of worship was
erected the next year, Rev. B. P. Gregory was installed as pastor, but
the congregation did not prosper and about 1880 meetings were dis-
continued.
On May 9, 1869, Elder Jonathan Dipboye organized a Christian
church at Elm Grove school house, in Lafayette township, with eleven
members. Meetings were held at the Elm Grove school house and other
places in the township until 1872, when a frame house of worship, cost-
ing about $1,000, was erected on the farm of George D. Thompson, not
far from the school house.
The Christian church at Elwood was first organized about 1854.
Before the congregation could erect a house of worship the Civil war
came on and for several years the church languished. After the war
the work was revived and the society took the name of the Main Street
Christian church. The congregation now occupies a modern and com-
modious house of worship, a handsome brick structure, at the corner
of Main and Eighteenth streets, and is in a prosperous state both in
membership and finances. The Holiness Christian church is located
at No. 2209 Main street, where the society has a small frame church,
and there is a Church of Christ located at the corner of North B and
Twentieth streets.
About 1876 the Baptists, Methodists and Christians of Adams
township, especially those congregations near New Columbus, united
in building a house of worship to be used by all three denominations
alternately. This house stood a short distance of the village and was
known as the "Union Church." It is no longer in existence.
New Light Christians
This denomination has never been very strong in Madison county.
The Elm Grove church, above referred to, some years after its estab-
244 HISTORY OF MADISON COLXTY
lishment, became a New Light church. About twenty members of this
sect formed a society in Duck Creek township and for awhile met with
the United Brethren in the church on the Hollingsworth farm, or with
the Methodists at "Reel Chapel," a building erected by John Reel, of
the New Light congregation. North of Linwood is a small frame build-
ing known as "Olivet" church, where a little band of the New Lights
hold services, and there is a New Light church in what is known as
Scott's addition to the city of Alexandria.
The Lutherans
As early as 1847 Lutheran ministers visited the few members of
that faith living near Ovid and held services in the residences of some
of the faithful. A few years later a society was organized, with "William
Sanders, John Baker, John Mowery and wife and J. B. Cromer and
wife as the firet members. Meetings were held in an old log school
house until 1861, when a substantial frame house of worship was erected
a short distance of the village. Never very strong in numbers, the con-
gregation found it burdensome to support a regular pastor, and serv-
ices have been held only at irregular intervals.
At Anderson there are two Lutheran churches. St. John's Evan-
gelical Lutheran church was organized on February 1, 1893, by Rev.
W. J. Finck, the first meeting of the society being held in a small
building on West Ninth street. Subsequently a lot at the comer of
Chase and Fourteenth streets was purchased and a house of worship
adequate to the needs of the congregation was erected. The German
Evangelical Lutheran church was organized sometime after St. John's.
It is an active growing congregation, M-hose place of worship is on Main
street, between Twentieth and Twenty-first streets.
At Elwood, St. John's Evangelical Lutheran church has a nice frame
house of worship at the corner of North F and Fourteenth streets. The
congregation here is harmonious and prosperous, although not large
numerically. The Evangelical Liitheran church of Alexandria has been
more fortunate in one respect than any other congregation in the county.
It has a handsome brick house of worship at the corner of Black and West
Washington streets that was erected by a wealthy New York lady and
given to the Lutherans of Alexandria.
The Presbyterians
On September 4, 1851, Rev. Edward Schofield organized the First
Presbyterian church of Anderson, with eleven members. For several
years prior to that time ministers of this sect had visited Madison county
at intervals and held services at the houses of the believers or in school
houses. About three years after the society was organized a movement
was started for the erection of a church. In 1855 a brick house, 36 by
60 feet, was built on Meridian street, between Tenth and Eleventh, at a
cost of $2,500. When the Baptist church was organized in 1872 this
building was sold to the new society and the Presbyterians erected a
handsome edifice on the southeast corner of Ninth and Jackson streets,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 245
where a lot had been donated by James Hazlett. This building is now
owned by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The present Presby-
terian church, at the northeast corner of Ninth and Chase streets, was
erected in 1904. It is a handsome brick building, witli tile roof and art
glass windows, and is one of the most imposing buildings of its kind in
the city of Anderson.
A United Presbyterian church was organized at Alexandria on May
4, 1893, and on the 1st of July following Rev. A. K. Straw was installed
as pastor. Not long after that a regular Presbyterian church was
established in that city and now has a cozy frame house of worship at
the corner of Harrison and Broadway streets. The First Presbyterian
church of Elwood was organized about the time that natural gas was
discovered there, or soon afterward, and is now in a prosperous condition.
Its house of worship is a good frame building located at the corner of
South A and Eighteenth streets.
The Universalist
There are but two congregations of this denomination in the county —
one at Pendleton and the other in Anderson. The Pendleton society
was organized in Februarj^ 1859. The first meeting was held in Pendle-
ton on the 6th. but the organization was etfected at Iluntsville on the
20th of that month. Among the early members wei'e Joshua Crawford,
John Tillson, James Cassiday, Lewis Cassiday, John Wert, John Houston,
Isaac Busby and T. G. Mitchell. John Houston, John Tillson and David
Bousman constituted the lirst board of trustees. ^Meetings were at first
held in the second story of the seminary, the school house, or in residences,
but before the close of the year a frame house with a seating capacity
of about 400 was erected, at the cost of $2,500, on the corner of Main
and Water streets. In 1895 the present building of brick, on the same
site, was erected. It occupies the site of the old log court-house, where
the Indian murderers were tried in 1824. A minister named Gibson
was the first regular pastor, though the first Universalist sermon
ever preached in Pendleton was delivered by Rev. R. B. Foster, of
Indianapolis.
The Anderson Universalist church is a comparatively new institution
and as yet has not become strong enougli to erect a fine house of worship.
The meeting place of this congregation is at 710 Jackson street.
The Episcopali.\ns
This denomination has churches at Anderson, Elwood and Alexandria.
Trinity Episcopal church, of Anderson, was organized by Rev. J. H.
McGlone, who began the work in 1890 and was the first rector after the
church was established. Meetings were at first held in the Doxey Opera
House until it was destroyed by fire, when a meeting place was found in
the Olympic Theater. In time a lot was purchased at the corner of
Thirteenth and School streets and in June, 1891, the corner-stone of the
first Trinity church was laid. The building was completed in September
of that year and meetings were held there until the erection of the present
hand.some stone edifice on Delaware street, which was completed in 1910.
346 IIISTOIJV OF .MADISON C'OIXTV
St. Paul's Episcopal cliureh, at Alexandria, was organized in Decem-
ber, 1805, l)y Kev. Francis C. Woodard. Meetings were held in halls, or
other convenient places for awhile, but as the congregation gained in
strength steps were taken to erect a church. The result is the cozy frame
house of worship at the corner of p]ast Monroe and Harrison streets,
where the meetings are now held regularly.
St. Stephen's Protestant P^piscopal chui'ch, of Elwood, was organized
about the same time as the one at Alexandria. This congregation now
occupies a comfortable frame church edifice at the corner of North A and
Eighteenth streets.
Miscellaneous
Mrs. Maria Woodworth, a trance evangelist, came to Anderson in the
summer of 1886 and held meetings in a tent at the fair grounds. She
made a number of converts and at the close of her meetings 106 persons
were baptized into an organization called the ''Church of God." Soon
after that a lot was purchased by the congregation, at the northeast
corner of Fourteenth and Brown streets, where a house of worship was
erected. It was dedicated in 1887 and the meetings of this peculiar scjt
are still held there.
Another church of the same faith was organized at Markleville in
1887. A church was built and regular services were held for a time,
but the interest waned and after about ten years the congregation was
without a pastor. Some of the members of this society united with the
church at Anderson.
The Congregationalists have never been very strong in Madison
county. Hope Congregational church, at Anderson, was organized on
November 22, 1891, with eighteen members, and Rev. W. C. Gordon was
the first pastor. For about a year meetings were held in the Olympic
Theater and later in a building on Chase street. On August 16, 1894, the
corner-stone of the brick edifice at the southeast corner of Tenth and
Chase streets was laid anci the building was completed in September, 1895.
For some reason the congregation did not prosper and in 1913 the house
of worship was sold to the Friends.
At Alexandria the eflPorts of the Congregationalists to establish a
church met with a similar fate, the building they erected there being
now owned and occupied by the^ Baptists. There are two congregations
of this denomination now in the county — one on Pendleton avenue, in
Anderson, and the other a Welsh Congregational church, Avhich has a
neat frame house of worship at the corner of South P and Twenty-second
streets, in the city of Elwood.
On January 15, 1892, a Spiritualist societ.y was organized in Anderson.
After holding meetings in dwellings for some time prior to that date,
under the leadership of Dr. John Westerfteld, the organization was given
an impetus at the beginning that resulted in the erection of a Spiritualist
temple at northwest corner of Thirteenth street and ]\Iadison avenue
before the close of the year 1892.
Two years before tliis societ.y was organized the State Spiritualist
Association purchased thirty acres of land just north of and ad.ioining
Chesterfield for a camp ground. A large auditorium, wilh a seating
IIISTOKY OF ilADlSON COUNT V 247
capacity of about oOO, was built, tfie grounds were cleared of rubbish and
undergrowth, several cottages were erected for the use of mediums or
others who desire to sojourn on the grounds during the annual meeting,
which is usually held in August. At these meetings Spiritualists come
from all parts of the United States to consult with others of their belief
and strengthen themselves in llie faith and doctrines of Spiritualism.
In the ftiregoing, an etfort has been made to give a true and faithful
account of the various religious organizations of the county since its
organization. There are and have been some religious societies that are
not mentioned, perhaps, because authentic information concerning them
is not available. In closing this chapter it is deemed advisable to include
a list of the church organizations in the three cities — Anderson, Elwood
and Alexandria — as given in the last city directories.
In Anderson. Allen Chapel, A. M. E., Sixteenth and Sheridan
streets; Arrow Avenue Christian, Eighteenth and Arrow avenue; Central
Christian, Tenth and Jackson ; East Lynn Christian, 2207 George street ;
Christian Congregational, Pendleton avenue; Church of God, Fourteenth
and Brown; First Baptist, Fourteenth and Lincoln; First Methodist
Episcopal, Twelfth and Jackson ; First Jlethodist Protestant, Fifth and
Locust ; First Presbyterian, Ninth and Chase ; First United Brethren,
Ninth and IMadison avenue ; Friends, Tenth and Chase ; German Baptists,
McKinley, between Twenty-first and Twenty-second ; (ierman Lutheran,
Main, between Twenty and Twenty-first; Grace M. E., Fourteenth,
between Cedar and Madison avenue; Holiness Christian, Twenty-fourth
and Delaware ; Mission Alliance, Thirteenth and ]\Iain ; Noble Street M.
E., 2332 Noble street; Park Place M. E., Seventh street, between Park
and Central avenues; Second A. M. E., 1125 Delaware street; Second
P>aptist (colored) Eleventh and Sherman; Seventh Day Adventists,
Thirteenth near Hendricks; Spiritual Temple, Thirteenth and Madison;
St. John's Lutheran, Fourteenth and Chase; St. Mary's Roman Catholic,
Eleventh and Fletcher; Trinity Episcopal, Eleventh and Delaware;
Universalist, 710 Jackson; Wesleyan ^I. E., 1209 West Ninth street.
In Ehvood. First Baptist, South D and Anderson ; St. Joseph 's
Roman Catholic, South A street ; Main Street Christian, IMain and
Eighteenth; Holiness Chriatian, 220!) Main street; Welsh Congregational,
South P and Twenty-second; St. John's Lutheran, North F and Four-
teenth : First JMethodist Episcopal, North A and Anderson ; J"'irst Metho-
dist Protestant, South D near Anderson ; First Presbyterian, South A
and Eighteenth, United Brethren, North H and Fourteenth ; St.
Stepiien's Episcopal, North A and Eighteenth; Church of Christ, North
B and Twentieth.
In Alexandria. First Baptist, West Church and Canal: Christian
Science Society, Odd Fellows' hall; St. Paul's Episcopal, Monroe and
Harrison; Evangelical Lutheran, Washington and Black; First Christian,
Berry and West; First IMethodist Episcopal, Canal and Broadway;
German Lutheran. Central avenue and Broadway; Joyce il. E. Chapel,
Park avenue and Fifth, street; Colored ]\Iethodist Episcopal, Berry and
liiack: Mission chureii, Harrison and Polk; New Light, Scott addition;
United Brethren, Innisdale addition; St. Mary's Roman Catholi'>, Madi-
son and Belmont ; First Presl)yterian, Harrison and Broadway.
CHAPTER XV
CHARITIES AND CEJIETERIES
Early Methods of Caring for the Poor — Madison County's First
PooRHousE — Later Poorhouses — The County Infirmary — Or-
phans' Home — Associated Charities — St. John's Hospital —
Sketch of its Founder — Country Graveyards by Townships —
Groveland Cemetery at Pendleton — Odd Fellows' Cemetery
at Alexandria— Park View — Elwood Cemetery — Gra\'e Rob-
bery— Anderson Cemeteries — jMaplewood Association.
In the early j'ears of Indiana's history the unfortunate poor were
taken care of by the townships, each township having one or more ofBcers
known as overseers of the poor. It was customary for these overseers
to "farm out" tlie paupers under their charge. The results obtained
by this method were not always humane, as the one who bought the
services of a pauper was more frequently interested in "getting his
money's worth" than in the welfare of his bond servant. To the credit
of Madison county, it can be said that the practice never prevailed here
to any great extent, though a few such cases are on record. The minutes
of the county board for the January tenn in 1834 contain the following
entry :
"Now comes John Berry, one of the overseers of the poor of Ander-
son township, and reports that, after due notice, he did, on the 11th day
of December, 1833, farm out to Nathaniel Chapman, Lydia Passons, a
pauper, for the tenn of one year for $11.75, he being the lowest bidder."
About this time the first steps were taken to build a poorhouse for
the county. At the May term in 1831 the commissioners received the
report of Joseph Shannon, county agent, which was as follows : "To
the honorable Board of Commissioners of Madison county, building of a
bouse advertised on the 26th of Febniaiy and sold on the 7th day of
April, 1834, to the lowest bidder, to wit': Jacob Shaul, for $20.00, he
giving bond and approved security to have the poorhouse finished on or
before the 5th day of ^May, on Section 15, northeast quarter, town 19,
N. R. 7 E. Joseph Shannon, Agent."
The report was approved by the board and the county aiulitor was
ordered to draw a warrant for $20 in favor of Jacob Shaul for build-
ing a poorhouse. This poorhouse was located on the road later known as
the Fishersburg pike, about two miles of the public square in Anderson.
On December 7, 1847, William Sparks, James Bell and Bazaliel Thomas,
county commissioner, sold to John Davis the east half of .e northeast
248
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 249
quarter of section 15, to\«iship 19, range 7, for $400, the order stating
that the tract thus transferred was the poor farm.
Four years before that sale was made, the commissioners had pur-
chased two acres of ground in what afterward became the South Park
addition to the city of Anderson, the tract extending from JMain to Pearl
streets, between Nineteenth and Twenty-third. John Renshaw, county
agent, awarded to John Jordan a contract for the erection of a "county
poor house, 20 by 30 feet square, two stories higli, with a stone chimney,"
for $100. This was an iiupruveinent over tlie $20 building
erected in 1834, and with several additions and other improvements
served the county as a home for the poor for over a quarter of a century.
At the March term of the commissioners' court in 1853, Neal Hardy,
William Sparks and Evan Ellis were appointed a special committee to
examine farms for sale, report upon the prices for which they could be
purchased, the character of the buildings thereon, and whether living
water was plentiful upon such fanns, with a view to establishing the
county poor farm in a new location. If this committee ever carried out
the investigations for which it was appointed, the records do not show
the fact, but it is probable that nothing was done, a.s the poorhouse in
the south part of Andei*son continued in use until 1868. In that year
it was sold and the commissioners purchased a farm in Richland town-
ship of John Nelson and the paupers were removed there. In purchas-
ing this farm an agreement was made with Mr. Nelson to act as super-
intendent of the farm and keeper of the poor and he continued to act in
that capacity until the board decided to purchase another farm, in a more
desirable location, and erect a permanent poorhouse. This farm was
afterward conveyed back to Mr. Nelson.
At a special session of the commissioners, held on July 5, 1877, the
board purchased of Berrj'man Shafer 212 acres of land in Union town-
ship, about four miles east of Anderson, and there permanently estab-
lished the county infirmary. At the time of purchase there was a large
brick residence on the farm and this was converted into a residence for
the .superintendent. Plans and specifications were advertised for, and on
July 18, 1877, those submitted by Edwin May, an Indianapolis architect,
were accepted. On September 3, 1877, the contract for the erection of
a building was a\\ arded to William B. Wright, of Anderson, for $7,200.
It was completed in January, 1878, when the paupers were removed to
the new institution, which was placed under the charge of A. J. Ross as
superintendent, his wife at the same time being appointed matron. Re-
cent improvements have been made, which gives Sladison county one of
the best infirmaries in the State of Indiana.
Some feeble attempts were made to care for the orphans and friend-
less children of the county prior to 1885, but it was not until March 6,
1885, that any official action was taken I'V the board of county com-
missioners. The records for that date contain the following entry :
"It is ordered by the board that a home for the friendless and orphan
children of Madison county, Indiana, be purchased and established at
such place in said county as said board of commissioners may designate."
On December 4, 1885, it was "ordered by the board that in all appli-
cations for admission to the orphans' home, the application must be
250 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
accompanied by the recommendation of the township trustee where the
child resides that such child is a proper subject for relief in the county
asylum. ' '
This was followed on December 8, 1885, by the appointment of a
visiting committee, consisting of B. W. Scott, Mrs. Edward Roberts and
Mrs. Leah M. Craven, though up to this time no home had been estab-
lished. On March 17, 1886, Decatur Vandeventer and wife transfcred
to the county of Madison ten acres in the west half of the northwest
quarter, section 19, township 19, range 8, for a consideration of $1,000,
as a site for an orphans' home. This tract is located in the southeast
part of the city of Anderson, fronting east on Columbus avenue and
north on Twenty-fifth street. In September after the purchase of the
property Thomas J. Lyst was paid -$63 for building a cistern, the
first improvement made by the county. The old residence was used as
the "home," Mrs. Henry C. Brown, j\Irs. Allen Richwiue and H. J.
Blacklidge were appointed a visiting committee, and Mrs. Celia Hockett
was installed as matron. She resigned on December 18, 1886, and Mrs.
Mary C. Robertson was appointed in her place. Mrs. Robertson remained
as matron for several yeai-s.
At first, the plan for caring for the children was to pay the matron
so much daily for each inmate. The contract made with Mrs. Robert-
son, when she first entered upon her duties, shows that she was to receive
twenty-five cents per day for each child under her charge, for which she
was to supply them with wholesome food and the necessary clothing,
and to send them lO the most convenient public school, the commissioners
to furnish the books and other necessary school supplies, and to pay
the matron's salary quarterly. This system was continued until in 1901.
Late in the year 1900 a movement was started to organize a Childrens'
Home Association, the principal object of which should be the finding of
permanent homes with good families for orphans, friendless or abandoned
children. The organization was completed in January, 1901, when the
county commissioners turned over the buildings and grounds of the
orphans' home to the association, which assumed control of the institu-
tion on February 1, 1901, and is still in charge.
The present officers of the association are: ^Irs. "Wallace B. Campbell,
president; Mrs. Isaac E. May, vice-president; Mrs. H. D. Webb, secre-
tary ; Wallace B. Campbell, treasurer. W. A. Harris is the superintend-
ent of the home and Mrs. W. A. Harris is matron. Since the association
took charge of the home the commissioners have annually made an
appropriatiozi for its support, Several essential improvements have been
made in the property and the institution has been placed upon a more
substantial foundation than under the old regime. From forty to sixty
children have annually been placed in good homes, where they will be
cared for and educated. None of the officers or members of the Chil-
drens' Home Association receives a salary, their labors being given for
the good of humanity, and through their systematic and unselfish work
the orphans' home of Madison county has lieen improved in character
until it will compare favorably with such institutions elsewhere.
In the early part of 1903 there were a number of unemployed people
in Anderson, many of whom were both able and willing to work, but were
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 251
unable to find any reniuneralive oniployinent. These conditions led to
the organization of the Associated Charities, which began its labors on
May 7, I'M'.i, with the following officers : W. 11. Stanton, president; Mrs.
George J. Manning, vice-president; ilrs. C. W. Ilooven, secretary; W. S.
Poling, trea.surer; JMiss Anna Doan, general secretary. The plan and
purpose of the organization is similar to those of organized charity work
everywhere — to assist the worthy poor by giving them opportunities to
find employment where it is [lossible to do so, rather than by dispensing
eharit}' with a lavish and indiscriminate hand.
Headquarters are maintained at 425 Union building, where the gen-
eral secretary is in attendance every afternoon, except Sundaj'. Most
of the work devolves upon the general secretary and in the ten years that
have passed since the Associated Charities was first organized, this office
has been held by four persons, viz : Miss Anna Doan, Miss Maud Prier,
Miss Gertrude JlcCleery and Miss Leafy ]\I. Wharton. The last named
has held the position since June, 1912. In September, 1913, the officers
were : i\Irs. C. W. Hooven, president ; A. W. Brady, vice-president ; Mrs.
G. A. Lambert, secretary; E. E. Luce, treasurer; Miss Leafy M. Whar-
ton, general secretary; Earle Y'^oung,. chairman of the finance committee.
Anderson has one charitable institution of which her citizens may
well be proud, and that is St. John's Hospital, situated between Brown
and Jackson streets, the grounds extending from Nineteenth to Twenty-
second street. This hospital was made possH le by the generosity of
"Uncle" John Ilickey, who on March 31, 1894, deeded the old Hickey
homestead, occupying the above mentioned tract of ground, to "the
trustees of the corporation of St. Mary's Academy, for the use and
benefit of the Sisters of the Holy Cross." The ^^ed of convej^ance also
contains the provision that if it should ever become necessary, for any
reason, to sell the property the trustees shall invest the proceeds of
such sale in other propert.y, within or adjacent to the city of Anderson.
Immediately after the conveyance was made and the trustees came into
possession of the property a hospital was opened in the old frame resi-
dence. The next year a two-story brick building, 65 by 95 feet, was
erected and ecpiipped with every modern hospital appliance for the treat-
ment of diseases or the perfprmanee of surgical operations. This build-
ing was so designed that it could be added to, should the occasion ever
require, and in 1900 it was improved and extended, making the hospital
one of the best in the state of Indiana. Although the institution is the
property of and under control of the Catholic Sisters of the Holy
Cross, many public spirited citizens of Anderson contributed to the
building fund, confident in the belief that the hospital would be
impartially managed. And this has been the case. Its doors and bene-
fits are open to the afflicted, without regard to race, social condition or
religious affiliation.
John Ilickey, the founder of this institution, was a native of County
Wicklow, Ireland. He came to Anderson in 1853 and there accumu-
lated enough of this world's goods to give him a competence. In giv-
ing the old homestead for a hospital site he might have perpetuated his
name by a stipulation that the institution should bear the name of
"Hickey Memorial Hospital," or some similar appellation. But this
252 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
he did not do. He gave the ground to an organization of the church
in which he had been reared, confident that the benefits of the hospital
would be administered in that broad catholic spirit which has always
been a distinguishing trait of hospitals of this character. ' ' Uncle
John" Hickey, as he was affectionately called by his many friends, died
a few years ago in Anderson. His familiar face is missed upon the
streets of the city where he so long made his home, but the hospital
he established is an enduring monument to his unselfishness and char-
itable disposition.
In the settlement of a new country, one institution that must be
established, yet one that the settlers are loath to see make its appear-
ance among them, ?s a burial place for the dead. Scattered over the
county of Madison are a number of country graveyards, most of which
have no special history. When the first death in a community would
St. John's Hospital
occur some one would donate a piece of ground for a burial place and
this would be the begiiming of a cemetery. Frequently no deed of such
a tract was made to trustees and entered upon the records. As the
old settlers died or moved away these graveyards often fell into disuse,
were neglected and in many instances only a trace of them remains.
As far as possible a list of these country graveyards is given by town-
ships, and where any one of them has a recorded history it is noted.
In Adams township there is a small burial ground on section 10,
near the northeast corner of the to\^^lship. The Gilmore cemetery, on
section 17, was laid out in 1833, on ground donated for the purpose by
Hugh Gilmore. His wife. Lucretia. died in February, 1833, and her
remains were the first to be interred upon the tract set apart by her
husband as consecrated ground for a neighborhood cemetery. On sec-
tion 18 there are two cemeteries. One near the Lutheran church, near
Ovid, and another a short distance further southwest, on the John S.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 253
Davis farm. On section 20, on the south bank of Lick creek and about
half a mile west of the Big Four Railroad, is another graveyard, and
the Collier cemetery is situated on section 35, on land donated by J.
F. Collier in 1836 as a burial place in connection with the Baptist
church. Mr. Collier's son Amos, who died on January 3, 1836, was the
first one to be buried in this cemetery.
In Boone township the plat books show a cemetery on the old Dickey
farm, near the center of section 10, and another on section 21, near the
site of the old village of Forrestville, which was laid out in 1850. It
is probable that this graveyard was estalilished about the same time.
In the southern part of Duck Creek township, on the line between
sections 2 and 35, is a cemetery that was evidently established at an
early date, as is shown by the fact that when a public highway was
established on the section line a detour was made to the southward
around the graveyard to avoid disturbing the resting place of some of
the old pioneers of the township.
There are a number of burial places in Pall Creek township, where
the first settlements in the county were made. As recorded in chapter
V, the firet deaths in this township were those of a Mr. Martin and
his wife, who were buried in one grave, near a large oak tree, in the
western part of the present town of Pendleton, though no regular
cemetery was ever established at that place. A short distance east of
the village of Huntsville, near the center of section 15, is an old bury-
ing ground, on what is known as the Aiman farm. Just a mile west of
it, on section 16, is the old Falls cemetery, which is now controlled by
the Grovelawn Cemetery Company.
Samuel Irish donated a tract of ground here for burial purposes and
the Palls Cemetery Association was organized on December 16, 1864,
with Dr. M. G. Walker as president ; T. G. Mitchell, secretary ; J. 0.
Hardy, treasurer; W. A. Baker and David Bowsman, directors. The
cemetery established by this association is immediately south of the old
Falls graveyard on the tract donated by Mr. Irish, on the northeast
corner of the southwest quarter of section 16.
The Grovelawn Cemetery Company was incorporated on July 25,
1902, with a capital stock of $22,500. "Of this stock $7,500 is known as
common stock and the remainder is preferred stock. Ample provisions
are made in the articles of incorporation for the redemption and can-
cellation of both the common and preferred stock of the company.
Soon after being incorporated the company purchased fift.v-seven acres
of land immediately across the Anderson pike from the old Palls ceme-
tery. In an announcement by the company it is stated that "A satis-
factory arrangement has been made with owners of lots in the old
Falls cemeterj', in which there are no longer any lots for sale, whereby
these old burying grounds, which are adjacent to the new grounds and
onl.v separated from them by a highway, become a part of the grounds
of the new a.ssociation and governed liy its rules. These old cemetery
grounds compose about eight acres of land, and the grounds purchased
by the new association fifty-seven acres, thus making sixty-five acres in
all under the ownership and care of Grovelawn Cemetery Company.
The needs of the community for burial purposes, it will therefore be
seen, have been amply pi-ovided for for more than one hundred years."
254 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
R. Ulrich, a landscape architect of national reputation, was engaged
to prepare plans for the walks and drives through the grounds and
make such suggestion as his knowledge and experience might dictate
for otherwise beautifying the grounds.
One thing has been done by the Grovelawn Cemetery Company that
deserves especial commendation. Thomas M. Pendleton, the founder of
the town that bears his name, was buried upon the farm he owned at
the time of his death. The new company removed his remains from the
neglected grave and reinterred them in a prominent place in the new
cemetery, marked by a "beautiful monument purchased by voluntary
contributions from persons who were pleased thus to honor his memory."
The officers of the company in 1913 were : W. F. Morris, president ;
J. Q. Reid, vice-president; W. H. Aiman, secretary; A. B. Taylor,
treasurer. These officers and J. D. Kinnard constitute the executive
committee and all are members of the board of trustees. The other
trustees are C. L. Henry, "W. H. Lewis, D. J. Williams, 0. W. Brown-
back, G. D. Barrett, Elmer Hester, T. il. Hardy, George P. Frank,
George P. Longnecker and 0. H. Burdett.
Another old country graveyard in Fall Creek township is situated
in the southeast quarter of section 22, near the old Friends church
established there many years ago, and still another is on the south
bank of Lick creek, near the site of the old village of Menden. Here
Ralph Williams, Mrs. Manly Richards and other Fall Creek township
pioneers are buried.
Pleasant Valley Methodist church, located in the northeastern part
of Green township, was organized in 1841. In 1857 William A. Wil-
liamson donated a tract of land near the church for burial purposes
and this is known as Pleasant Valley cemetery. The first to be buried
here was a little daughter of J. W. Ford, who died on March 30, 1858.
Beech Grove cemetery was established in the latter part of the
year 1871, when the German Baptists of Beech Grove church pur-
chased two acres of ground from David Richards, in the southeast
quarter of section 21, near the church, and set the tract apart as a
graveyard in connection with their church. The first to be interred
here was Washington Pettigrew, who died in the fall of 1872.
At Mount Carmel Methodist church, near the present town of
Ingalls, a cemetery was laid out in 1862 on land donated for the pur-
pose by James Jones. In July of that year George Clayton, a private
of the Second Indiana Cavalry, died while at home on furlough and
his remains were the first to be interred in Mount Carmel cemetery.
He was buried with military honors.
On the Doty farm, about two miles west of Ingalls and not far from
public school No. 1, in Green township, is a small graveyard where
some of the early settlers of that locality are buried.
Four country graveyards are marked on the plat books for Jack-
near the southern border of section 13, which is the northeast corner
son township. One is on the bank of a little tributary of Pipe creek,
section of the township. The second is on the Foland farm, near Pipe
creek and public school No. 3, in the northwest quarter of section 27.
The third is situated on the south bank of White river, a short dis-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 255
tanee southeast of Perkiiisville, and the fourth is about half a mile east
of the little hamlet of Halford.
When the Pan Handle Railroad was built through Lafayette town-
ship in 1856, John Keller started "Keller's Station" about a mile and
a half northwest of the present village of Florida. A little east of the
station a graveyard was established on the southwest quarter of section
15, where several of the early settlers are buried. Keller's Station did
not long survive and the graveyard is now seldom u.sed, except by some
family whose relatives were buried there at some period in the past.
About four miles northeast of Alexandria, on the south bank of
Pipe creek and in the southwest quarter of section 10 is a small ceme-
tery that dates back to the settlement of that part of Monroe township.
There is another little cemetery about a mile southeast of the old vil-
lage of Osceola, on a small tributan' of Lilly creek. A third is located
on section 22. a short distance southeast of Orestes, and near the north-
west corner of the township is the old IMount Tabor cemetery, which
was established in connection with Mount Tabor Methodist church, about
1850. There is also a small graveyard, just east of the road running
from Alexandria to Anderson, near the southern border of the town-
ship.
There is a small cemetery between Jackson and Monroe streets, just
east of Harrison, in the city of Alexandria, though there have been
no interments here for several years. In the early '70s Necessity lodge,
No. 222, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Alexandria, realizing
the need for a cemetery conducted on modern principles, purchased a
tract of ground south of what is now Fourth street and east of Park
avenue, laid out the walks and drives, and put the property in charge of
a board of trustees composed of members of the lodge. Subsequently
some additional ground was purchased, extending the cemetery south
to Sixth street, and including in all about twenty-five acres. Burials in
this cemeterj' are not confined to members of the order, but are open to
the general public. This is the only cemetery in the county owned and
managed by a fraternal organization and it is one of the prettiest in
Madison county.
On ^larch 13, 1908, the Park View Cemetery Association, of Alex-
andria, was incorporated with JI. il. Walker, president; Harry M.
Adams, vice-president ; Virgil S. Day, secretary, and Vernon H. Day,
treasurer. The capital stock of the as.sociation was fixed at $5,000 and
a tract of ten acres, immediately south of the Odd Fellows' Cemetery,
was purchased and laid out for burial purposes. This is one of the
newest cemeteries in the county, and while there have been but few
burials so far, there is every prospect that it will become one of the most
beautiful, as the association is exercising great care in looking after the
grounds and keeping them in the best of condition.
In Pipe Creek township there are two graveyards near Frankton —
one south of the town, near the township line, and the other north of
Pipe creek, not far from the Pan Handle Railroad. There is also a
small cemetery on the Shell farm, in section 11, near the southern
boundary of the township, and another in the northeast corner of the
same section. Other old-time graveyards in this township are in the
256 HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY
west side of section 19, near the Big Branch ; near the center of section
21, about a mile southwest of Elwood ; and in the southeast corner of
section 30, about three-fourths of a mile north of Frankton.
The Elwood Cemetery Association was incorporated in April, 1895,
by Daniel King, Thomas Dehority, L. M. Good, Lewis Hefner and Dr.
Daniel Sigler. On the bank of Duck creek, south of the Lake Erie &
Western Railroad and extending from Tenth to Thirteenth streets, was
an old graveyard that had been established soon after the town of
Quincy was laid out in 1853. No one was responsible for its care
except the persons whose relatives and friends were there interred and
this voluntary service was not sufficient to prevent the place from
becoming unsightly by being overrun with weeds and shrubbery.
Moreover, the growth of Elwood from a small town to a city of con-
siderable portions, after the discovery of natural gas, made it
essential that a cemetery association be incorporated, with power to
assume the management of the burial place. The old graveyard was
therefore turned over to the association and in a short time presented a
different appearance.
The site of this cemetery is naturally pretty, and since the improve-
ments made by the association it has become one of the handsomest
"cities of the dead" in Madison county. In this cemetery is the vault
or mausoleum erected by Dr. Stanley W. Edwins, which is considered to
be the finest in the county. It is built of dressed Indiana, oolitic lime-
stone, is elevated above the adjacent driveway and is approached by a
flight of six stone steps. Inside the structure are marble sarcophagi,
stone vases and urns for flowers, etc. This tomb was erected by Doctor
Edwins in memory of his daughter, Mrs. Flora M. Howe, whose remains
are therein deposited. The cost of the vault was about $4,000. There
are also a number of fine moniunents in the Elwood Cemetery, most of
which have been erected since the organization of the association.
In 1891 Bishop M. E. Campion, of the Fort Wayne diocese, con-
secrated a tract of five acres of ground one and a half miles southwest
of Elwood for a cemetery for St. Joseph's parish of the Catholic church.
Since the establishment of this cemetery about four hundred and fifty
bodies have been there interred. According to the custom of the Cath-
olic church it is under the care of a sexton, who keeps it in order, and it
is one of the really pretty burial places of the county.
The plat books of Kichland township show three graveyards, all of
which were established years ago. The first is in section 5, near the
northern boundary; the second is at the cross-roads on the southern
line of section 11, and less than a mile west of the Delaware county
line ; and the third is in the northwest quarter of section 19, a short
distance southeast of the old village of Prosperity.
Two miles northeast of Fishersburg, on the road running to Ander-
son, is an old graveyard, where a number of the pioneers of Stony
Creek township are buried. Near the southern line of section 28, a
short distance south of the town of Lapel and on the banks of Stony
creek, is another cemetery, which is used by the people of Lapel and
Fishersburg.
On the county poor farm in section 10, Union township, is the "Pot-
HISTORY OF AIADISON COUNTY 257
ler's Field," where the inmates of the county infirmary who die while
in that institution are buried. Other cemeteries in this township are
located in the southeast quarter of section 23 and near the center of
section 35. There is also a family burying ground on the old Clem
farm near the west side of section 34.
Only two cemeteries are shown on the plat of Van Buren township.
One of these is located in the northwest quarter of section 17, a short
distance west of the Michigan division of the Big Four Railroad and
less than half a mile south of Zion church. The other is at the old
Christian church about a mile south of Summitville. The ground for
the latter was donated for a gi-aveyard by Thomas Cartwright soon
after the township was settled.
About half a mile southwest of the old Moss Island Mills, on the
north side of the Perkinsville pike, is a small graveyard, which is one
of the oldest in Anderson township. In the extreme southeast comer
of section 22, near the line of the Union Traction Company and the
road leading to Pendleton, is another old-time graveyard, and three
miles south of Anderson, on the New Colimibus pike, is the Whetstone
cemeterA-. This burial place aquired considerable notoriety in the early
part of 1876, through the robbery of one of its graves. Mrs. Abner
Brothers, a joiing and popular woman, who had been married but a
short time, died early in the year and was buried here. On the night
of January 14, 1876, John Stewart and Tunis Whetstone, returning
home from a dance, upon approaching the cemetery noticed a team
hitched to the fence, with two men not far from the bugg>-, and in the
moonlight saw the nude corpse of a woman that had just been taken
from the grave. They hurried to the residence of Dr. Railsback, a short
distance north of the graveyard, and after arousing him started to alarm
other persons living in the neighborhood. While they were thus en-
gaged the two grave-robbers took the body and drove toward Anderson
as fast as the horses could go.
An investigation the next morning disclosed the fact that the body
of Jlrs. Brothers was missing from the grave. Henry McDaniel, a
brother-in-law of IMr. Brothers, and some of his friends hurried to
Indianapolis, where they found the body in the dissecting room of one
of the medical colleges. Suspicion pointed to a medical student that
had been reading under Dr. Zimri Hockett, of Anderson, and it devel-
oped in the investigation that the team and buggy used in carrying away
the body belonged to Dr. Hockett. Marshal Daughert}^ went to Indian-
apolis to arrest the student, who was then attending the college, but some
of his friends warned him in time for him to make his escape. It was
afterward learned that the intention was to take the body of a pauper
named Taylor, who had recently been buried in the cemetery by the
township trustee, and that the resurrectionists made a mistake in the
grave. The student remained away from Madison county until the
excitement died away, when he returned to Anderson. While the excite-
ment was at its height some people were inclined to think that Dr.
Hockett was connected with the robbery, but it was afterward made
]>laiu that he was blameless, the body snatchers taking his team and
bugj,'y without his knowledge or consent.
258 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
At the March session in 1832 the county board "Ordered, that Wil-
liam Curtis, agent of Madison county, for Andcrsontown, the seat of
justice of said county, do make and execute to John Berry, in consider-
ation of a certain lot of ground, by said Berry transferred, for the
purpose of a burying ground, a deed for lots No. 15 and 16, in the south-
east square ot Andcrsontown."
Two years later, in January, 1834, the board again took action upon
the subject of a burial place, the records of that session showing that
it was "Ordered, That Joseph Shannon be, and he is hereby, appointed
agent for the seat of justice of Madison county, and that he is hereby
instructed to receive a good deed of John Berry for a burying ground,
agreeably to said Berry's undertaking, and also to collect the amount
of the donation subscribed thereon."
The records do not show that a deed was ever executed by Berry,
nor can the "amount of the donation subscribed thereon" be learned.
This was the first cemetery at Anderson. It was located at the east end
of Bolivar (now Tenth) street. In 1839 Collins Tharp donated a small
tract of laud situated on the west side of Delaware street, between Elev-
enth and Twelfth streets, as a site for a Methodist church and burial
place. Most of the bodies buried iu the first cemetery were removed to
the new one, but a few years after the Civil war the knoll upon which
the old cemeter>' had been situated was removed by the Pan Handle
Railroad Company and a number of human bones were found. These
were loaded on the cars and hauled away, with the gravel which was
being used as ballast along the line of the road.
In 1863 the Anderson Cemeterj' Association was formed and a tract
of ground north of the river was purchased as a site for a new place of
sepulture. By this time the old Tharp graveyard was practically sur-
rounded by residences and those buried there were removed to the new
cemetery across the river. Some of the coziest residences in Anderson
now occupy the ground that was formerly the Tharp gi-aveyard.
St. Mary's cemetery was established by the Catholic church in 1867,
when a tract of ground, a litle south of Twentieth street and extending
from Brown to Lincoln streets, was purchased as the parish burial
ground. A little later it was consecrated according to the ritual of the
church and the first one to be buried here was Michael, the infant son
of Mr. and ]\Irs. Michael Carmody. This cemetery is directly opposite
St. Mary's hospital.
Last but not least is the beautifid Maplewood cemetery, which lies
just across the highway from the Anderson cemetery established iu 1863.
Maplewood Cemetery Association was incorporated on February 17. 1'lir2
The original trustees were George Lilly, John H. Terhune, AVilliam
H. H. Quick, James J. Netterville, Thomas N. Stilwell, Albert A. Small,
James A. Van Osdol, John L. Forkner, James Wellington, Willis S.
Ellis, John P. Sears, George E. Nichol, Charles L. Henry, Dale J. Crit-
tenberger and William H. Stanton. With the exception of jMessrs.
Terhune, AVellington, Small and Sears, the original members still serve
on the board. Terhune and Wellington are deceased. In 1913 the
officers of the board were : George Lilly, president ; Will Surbaugh, sec-
retary; George N. Nichol, treasurer.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 259
Soon after the association was incorporated a tract of about 216 acres
of ^ound, situated immediately east of the old Anderson cemetery,
wa-s purchased and R. Ulrich, a landscape architect, of Brooklyn, New
York, was engaged to lay out and plat a cemetery according to the most
approved designs of modern times. Upon the grounds is a natural grove
of about thirty-tive acres and in the open places some 800 trees have
been planted. The work of improvement is still going on, the drive-
ways are being macadamized, etc., and to this work lot owners are not
asked to contribute, the entire cost being paid by the association.
In 1907, when those having friends buried in the old cemetery across
the road saw what the Maplewood Association was doing, a movement
was started to have the old graveyard placed under the association's
care. A fund of $10,000 was raised by subscription and paid to the asso-
fiation in consideration of its assuming the perpetual care and control
of the old cemetery, and a contract to this effect was consummated. The
association then assumed control of the old cemetery, which is now
known as West Maplewood, and began the work of clearing away the
weeds and briers with which it was overrun. In the six years that have
elapsed since that time the old cemeterj' has put on a new appearance.
The Maplewood Association was not organized for profit. It was
projected and maintained by men whose chief desire was to give to the
people of Anderson and vicinity a burial ground of which they need
not feel ashamed. It is the plan that, when the debts of the association
are paid and the current operating expenses are provided for, the entire
income shall be used in further improving and beautifying the grounds.
The capital stock of the association is $75,000, of which $25,000 is com-
mon and $50,000 preferred stock. Article III of the articles of incor-
poration provides that "All funds of the corporation raised by the issu-
ance of capital stock shall be used in the purchase and improvement of
real estate acquired for cemetery purposes; and all funds arising from
the sale of burial lots or burial permits shall be used to retire the capital
stock as herein before provided, and in the improvement of the property
of the corporation and in the acquisition of additional property and
improvement thereof, all of which shall be used for cemetery purposes.
It is specifically understood and agreed upon that and provided that all
funds received by the corporation from the sale of burial lots and burial
permits not required for the care and improvement of the cemetery
property, the payment of necessary and proper expenses and the retire-
ment of capital stock, as herein provided, shall be kept and used as a
sacred fund for all time for the improving, ornamenting and caring for
the cemetery property."
Further on in the articles it is stipulated that the "provision regard-
ing the funds of this corporation shall never be changed or modified, it
being a fundamental principle upon which this corporation is organized
that no profits shall inure therefrom to any person or persons, either
by virtue of their being stockholders or owners of lots or burial per-
mits under this corporation, save and except the dividends herein before
specified to be paid on the preferred capital stock."
Organized on this basis, if the plan is adhered to, there is no reason
why the Maplewood cemetery at Anderson should not become one of the
260 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
most beautiful in the state. The natural features are well adapted to
the purpose and the work so far done justifies the prediction that the
Maplewood Cemetery of the future will be still more attractive than it
is at present.
Much credit is due to William H. Stanton, the first president of the
association, for the beautiful appointments of Maplewood cemetery. He
visited a number of cities and studied their cemeteries, and with the
knowledge thus gained he was able to pursue his work intelligently until
he succeeded in laying the foundation of a plan that has made Maple-
wood one of the beauty spots of Madison county.
CHAPTER XVI
SOCIETIES AND FRATERNITIES
Agricultural Societies — Fair Associations and Fairs — Anderson
Lyceum — Old Settlers' Association — The Patrons op Husbandry
— Horse Thief Detective Association — The Masonic Fraternity
— Independent Order of Odd Fellows — Knights of Pythias — Im-
proved Order of Red Men — Grand Army of the Republic — A Liv-
ing Flag — Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks — Loyal
Order of Moose — Miscellaneous Lodges and Societies — Trades
Unions — Daughters of the American Revolution.
One of the first societies to be organized in Madison county was an
agricultural society. In May,' 1835, the county commissioners ordered
"That notice be given by posting up manuscript advertisements at
Pendleton, Andersontown and New Columbus, that a meeting for the
purpose of organizing an agricultural society in Madison county will be
held at Andersontown on the last Saturday of May, instant, and that
the sheriff be required to give said notice."
No record of what was done at that meeting can be found, but it is
quite probable that a society of some sort was organized, as the com-
missioners records for March 7, 1837, contain the following entry:
"Ordered by the board, that the sum of twenty-five dollars of the county
funds of Madison county be, and the same is hereby, appropriated to
the agricultural society of said county, which sum shall be audited by
the clerk and paid by the county treasurer to the president of said
society. ' '
The first fair in the county, so far as can be learned, was a private
enterprise, projected by Archibald Parker and Joseph Barnes, and
was given upon the public square in 1837. No admission fee was charged
and no premiums were awarded except the red and blue ribbons. The
next fair wa-s at Huntsville in 1839, but little can be ascertained con-
cerning it. further than that William Roach, Isaac Busby, John H. Cook,
Conrad Crossley and John J. Lewis were the active promoters of the fair.
There is no record showing that the agricultural society of 1835 ever
gave an exhibit of fann products. This society did not live long and in
1850 a second society was organized with Dr. Townsend Ryan as pres-
ident. The first fairs held by this society were on grounds at the west
end of Tenth street, on what is now known as the Sansberry homestead.
In June, 1862, William Crim, one of the county commissioners, was
ordered by the board to purchase twelve acres of the Michael Ryaa
261
262 HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY
land, near Anderson, "for the use of the Madison County Agricultural
Society (Pair Ground), said purchase not to exceed $33 per acre."
At the Septeml)er term following' Mr. Crim reported the purchase of
lots Nos. 13 and 14, Thomas ^Moore's addition to the town of Anderson,
each containing six acres, for the sum of .$406. The purchase was
approved by the board and on the same day the lots were donated to the
agricultural society, on condition that the society would fit up and
properly maintain a fair ground upon the same. Failure to comply with
the conditions imposed would cause the lots to revert to the county.
In June, 1868, the society paid back to the county the purchase price
of $406, with interest, and received a deed to the fair grounds. Lots 13
and 14 of Moore addition were immediately north of pjighth street and
west of the Michigan division of the Big Four Railroad, extending
north to the vicinity of the present Third .street. They have since been
subdivided and are now covered with comfortable homes.
Under the act of February 20, 1867, the Pendleton Agricultural
Society was organized at a meeting held in Judge Ilervey Craven's
office on June 20, 1867, when a committee of ten was appointed to solicit
stock subscriptions. On July 27, 1867, a second meeting was held and
the articles of association were adopted. That same month the society
purchased of W. V. Shanklin eighteen acres of ground for a fair ground.
On February 8, 1868, J. H. Kinnard was elected president of the society ;
E. Williams, secretary, and J. W. Bomgardner, treasurer. The first
fair was held by this society in September, 1868, and annual exhibits
were held thereafter until 1876, when the society was disbanded.
In the meantime the Madison County Joint-Stock Agricultural
Society had been organized in May, 1868, with "William Crim as pres-
ident. Dr. Townsend Ryan, secretary, and John P. Barnes, treasurer.
On the last day of that month a tract of ground a short distance of the
old fair grounds was leased and the first fair was given by the society
the following fall. A considerable sum of money was expended in mak-
ing improvements upon the grounds and fairs were held annually until
1890. The last thre? fairs preceding that year had not been well at-
tended and the society underwent some financial reverses. The land in
the meantime had increased in value, proceedings had been instituted
for opening streets through the grounds, and in 1890 they were sub-
divided into residence lots and the old joint-stock agricultural society
passed out of existence.
From 1892 to 1894 the North Anderson Driving Park Association
held annual races on grounds m North Anderson. Of this association
H. C. Ryan was president; C. K. McCullough, secretary; "W. T. Diu'bin,
treasurer ; N. A. Free, superintendent. Large stables and a mile track
were provided, but the races were not patronized as liberally as the asso-
ciation had anticipated, the stockholders refused to meet the assess-
ments, and the grounds were sold by order of the circuit court in 1894.
The last fair ground established in the vicinity of Anderson was
situated on the right bank of White river, at the east end of Ninth
street. Fairs were held here for a few years, but they were not suc-
cessful, owing to a general lack of interest, and the fair grounds were
sold to the city of Anderson for a public park. This park was dedicated
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 263
on .luly 4, 1913, and is known as "Foster Park." from the fact that the
laiui was inirchasetl dnring the administration of Hon. Frank P. Foster
as mayor.
The Ehvood Driving I'ark and Fair Association wa.s organized on
October 3, 1895, with C. C Dehority, P. T. O'Brien, D. G. Evans, M. J.
Clancy, H. G. Ilarting and F. ^l. Ilarhit as the first board of directors.
Fairs have been held here annually since that time and have been fairly
well attentled. Horse, corn and poultry shows are given every year at
Alexandria, Lapel and Pendleton.
A society known as the Anderson Lyceum was organized in 185S
for the purpose of discussing current topics and such questions as
might come l>efore it. One of the questions debated soon after the
society was organized was the "Kansas Question," which just then was
attracting universal attention. Among the debaters were such men as
Dr. Townsend Ryan, Neal C. MeCuUough, Thomas N. Stilwell, Milton S.
Robinson. James 'M. Dickson, Thomas W. Cook and I. N. Terwilliger,
all of whom were more or less prominent in pul)lic life in later years.
Probably the first old settlers' meeting in the county was held at
Pendleton in 1856. Among those who' participated were John ]Marklc,
John H. Cook, Thomas Silver, Isaac Bushy, Conrad Crossley, Samuel D.
Irish and Abel Johnson, all of whom have since passed to their reward.
The next meeting of this character, of which there is any account, was
held at Alexandria in July, 1873. It was attended by people from all
parts of the county and by some from adjoining counties, and a general
interest was awakened in the importance of perpetuating the history anrl
traditions of pioneer days. The following year the old settlers of Mad-
ison and Hamilton counties held a meeting near Perkinsville. Other
meetings were held at various places during the next twenty years, but
it was not until July 16, 1894, that st*ps were taken to form a perma-
nent Old Settlers' Aasociation. On that date a meeting called by Sam-
uel Harden, Rufus H. Williams and others a.ssembled for the purpose.
John L. Forkner presided at the meeting and William P. Newman acted
as secretary. In the organization of the association Francis Watkins was
elected president and a vice-president was cho.sen from each township
in the count.v. The first meeting held under the auspices of the associa-
tion v.as in Ruddle's grove on August 30, 1894. It was largely attended
and John H. Terhune, then major of Anderson, welcomed the visitors
in an appropriate address. A number of speeches were made by old
residents, among whom were J. M. Farlow, Dr. Ward Cook, James
Hollingsworth, Charles Fisher, James W. Sansberry, Samuel Myers,
and David S. Gooding. Since then meetings have been held every year
and a record of the proceedings of the association has been kept. This
record contains many interesting facts concerning the manners and
customs of pioneer days and some day it will prove a veritable mine of
information to the historian. The last meeting of the association was
held at ilounds Park, near Anderson, Sunday, August 10, 1913.
In the early '70s an organization called the Patrons of Husbandry
came into existence and in a short time spread over the entire country.
It might lie called a union of farmei's, whose objects were to secure bet-
ter prices for their products and better transportation rates on rail-
264 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
roads. One of the cardinal principles was to do away with the middle-
man as far as possible and buy directly from the manufacturer. To
carry out this principle cooperative stores were established by the order
in a number of towns and cities. Local societies were called granges,
and the members of the orgranization soon came to be known as Grangers.
The first grange in Madison county of which any definite account can be
gathered, was Normal Grange, No. 218, which was organized on July 3,
1873, with F. M. Wood as master and A. E. Swain as secretary. Dageon
Grange, No. 348, was organized on July 12, 1873, with thirty-three
charter members; P. S. Baker, master; !M. H. Ilannon, secretary. On
August 8, 1873, a grange was organized at Osceola, axid on the 28th of
the same month Manring Grange, No. 357, was organized at the Man-
ring schoolhouse in Monroe township, with thirty-five charter members.
Jesse Hall was elected master and N. H. Manring, secretai^y. Richland
Grange, No. 464, was organized at the College Corner schoolhouse in
Richland township, with David Croan as master and Jonathan Dillon as
secretary. Charity Grange, No. 588, was organized on October 6, 1873,
with J. S. Guysinger as master and Lenox Gooding as secretary. Two
days later Fishersburg Grange, No. 554, was organized with Harvey
Gwinn as master and Harrison Quick as secretary. On the 9th Adams
Grange, No. 590, so named from the township in which it was located,
was organized with fifteen charter membens, but the membership in-
creased rapidly and before the close of the year was over fifty. Ander-
son Grange, No. 520, received its chai-ter on October 10, 1873, with
twenty charter members, but the names of the first master and secretary
cannot be learned. On October 12, 1873, Markleville Grange, No. 625,
was organized by William G. Lewis, of Grant county, Indiana, who was
one of the regular organizers of the order and assisted in the establish-
ment of most of the Madison county granges. Pleasant Grove Grange,
No. 495, was organized on October 21, 1874, with twenty-one charter
members. Buttonwood Grange No. 891, was organized on November 6,
1873, with sixteen charter members. Boston Grange, No. 1122, was
organized on December 23, 1873, with J. R. Boston as master and
J. L. Fussell as secretary. Huntsville Grange, No. 1166, was organized
on January 9, 1874, with thirteen charter members. Richmond Chapel
Grange, No. 1167, was organized on Januarj' 13, 1874, and there were
also granges organized in Union and Fall Creek townships about the
same time, or a little before. They were known as Union Grange, No.
422, and Fall Creek Grange, No. 544, but nothing of their history can
be ascertained.
There were a few other granges established in the county and by
the close of the year 1874 it was estimated that over 1,200 Madison
county farmers were members of the order. It was not long until design-
ing men gained admission to the Grange and began using it to further
their political ambitions, so that the usefulness of the organization was
destroyed. There is no doubt, however, that the agitation begun in the
Grange movement, as it was called, has been responsible for much oi
the subsequent legislation regarding freight and passenger rates on
railroads. Women were eligible to membership and held ofSces in the
local granges.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 265
Some years ago a Horse Thief Detective Association was organized
in the state of Kansas for the purpose of running down horse thieves,
thefts of tliat character being of common occurrence. Other states took
up the idea and a National Horse Thief Detective Association was the
result. Bankers and merchants were admitted to membership and a
robbery or burglary committed against one of the members soon enlists
the aid of the entire association in the effort to apprehend the offender.
Several branches of this association have teen established in Madison
county. They are Central, No. 40; Jackson Township, No. 46; Pleas-
ant Grove, No. 74; Lilly Creek, No. 88; Alexandria, No. 114; Frankton,
No. 132 ; Scatterfield, No. 136 ; Monroe TowTiship, No. 141 ; Good In-
tent, No. 159 ; Elwood, No. 173 ; Lapel, No. 175, and Anderson, No. 210.
The Masonic Fraternity
The Masonic fraternity was the tirst of the charitable or benevolent
secret societies to establish a lodge in Madison county. On January 29,
1841, nine Masons met at Pendleton to consider the question of applying
to the grand master for a dispensation to organize a lodge in that village.
These nine men, who afterward became the original members of the
lodge, were John H. Cook, James L. Bell, Thomas Adamson, Archibald
Cooney, Henry Wyman, Samuel D. Irish, William H. Mershou, "William
Roach and Thomas Silver. All signed a petition to the grand master
for a dispensation, which was granted, and on February 10, 1841, the
lodge was formally instituted. On May 15, 1841, Bernard Thomas
received in this lodge the degree of Entered Apprentice, being the first
man to be initiated into Masonry in Madison county. The first officers
of the lodge were James L. Bell, worshipful master ; William H. Mer
shon, senior warden ; Samuel D. Irish, junior warden ; John H. Cook,
secretary ; Thomas Silver, treasurer ; Joseph Chittwood, senior deacon ;
Thomas Adamson, junior deacon; William Roach, tiler.
This lodge continued under dispensation until May 24, 1842, when
it received a charter from the grand lodge as Madison Lodge, No. 44,
and on June 17,' 1842, it was formally instituted under the charter by
Thomas Silver, who was appointed a special deputy for the purpose.
Meetings were at first held in the second story of a dwelling owned by
John H. Cook, but in 1853 a Masonic hall was built by the lodge. After
many years this building was torn down and the present Masonic Temple
was erected in 1892 on the same lot, situated on the west side of State
street. It is three stories in heiglit and cost about $8,000 in the begin-
ning, but improvements costing $1,100 were later added. On December
31, 1912, the lodge reported 124 members, to which additions are con-
stantly being made by the initiation of new members. In 1913 Ray
0. Golder was worshipful master of the lodge, and George A. Phipps
was secretary.
Chesterfield Lodge, No. 53, was chartered on May 27, 1844, with
G. W. Ballingal, worshipful master; G. W. Godwin, senior warden-,
Edward M. Farland, jimior warden. This lodge met in the hall over the
school room for about thirty years, when it became so weakened by
death and removal of members that it surrendered its charter in May,
1875.
266 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Mount Moriah Lodge, No. 77, at Anderson, was organized under a
dispensation on May 23, 1848, and received a charter on June 1, 1849.
It was instituted in one of the second story rooms of the old courthouse,
with Henry Wyman, woi-shipful master; Adam Reed, senior warden;
Robert Wooster, junior warden ; Richard Lake, secretary ; G. T. Hoover,
treasurer; Townsend Ryan, senior deacon; Burkett Eads, junior deacon.
Lodge meetings were held in the courthouse for awhile, when a room
was secured on the third floor of the old United States Hotel. It appears
that the traditional "peace and harmony" did not prevail in the lodge
after a few years, and in January, 1855, the charter was surrendered. A
few months later a petition signed by twenty-eight Masons was pre-
sented to the grand lodge, praying for a restoration of the charter, and
on June 23, 1855, the petition was granted and the lodge was reorgan-
ized with the original name and number. From that time until the
completion of the Masonic Temple in 1896, j\Iount Moriah Lodge held
meetings in various places, the last meeting place being in the old
Union hall at the southeast comer of Eighth and Main streets. Regular
meetings are now held in the temple on the second and fourth Mon-
days of each month. In 1913 Henry W. Gante, Jr., was worshipful
master, and George W. Bickford, secretary. This lodge now uxunbers
about four hundred members.
Anderson Lodge, No. 114, was granted a dispensation on September
16, 1865, when a number of members withdrew from Mount Moriah and
formed the new lodge. This was not the result of any dissension, but
merely due to the fact that the membership of Mount Jloriah had becoine
so large that it was considered the part of wisdom to found a new one.
On May 20, 1866, the lodge received a charter, taking the number 114
from LTnity Lodge, of Perrysville, which had surrendered its charter.
The first officers under the charter were H. J. Blacklidge, worshipful
master ; J. W. Smith, senior warden ; W. Mitchell, junior warden. For
some years the lodge held meeting in the same hall as Mount Moriah,
when the two lodges were consolidated.
The corner-stone of the Masonic Temple at Anderson was laid on
May 21, 1895, by J. A. Thompson, according to the rites of the order,
and on March 23, 1896, the building was formally dedicated. It is
located on the east side of Meridian street, between Tenth and Eleventh,
in the business district of the city and is one of the finest Masonic Temples
in the state. The ground floor is divided into business rooms, the front
of the second floor consists of several nice suites of offices, in the rear of
which is a club room and banquet hall, and the third floor is used exclu-
sively for lodge purposes. The front of the building is of Indiana oolitic
limestone and presents a handsome appearance. The total cost of the
temple was about $40,000.
Ovid Lodge, No. 164, was instituted at New Columbus (now Ovid)
under a charter dated May 24, 1854, with fourteen charter members and
the following officers: B. W. Cooper, worshipful master; Joseph Peden,
senior warden; "William Malone, junior warden. For about six years
the meetings of the lodge were held in the second story of a log building
on the west side of the village, but on July 14, 1860, a new lodge room
was dedicated by Joseph Eastman, William Roach and others who were
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
267
deputized by the grand lodge ofificers for the occasion. After the cere-
mony of dedication the members of the lodge and their guests joined in
an open air dinner, after which a number of short addresses were made
by those present. The charter nieinbers of tliis lodge all came from old
-Madison Lodge at Pendleton. On December 31, 1912, the lodge reported
thirty-five members. Emmor AVilliams was the woi-shipful master for
1913, and Loren Stohler was the secretary.
Quincy Lodge. No. 230, located at Elwood, was organized under a
charter dated I\Iay 25. 1858, having passed tlirough the customary period
RL^soNic Temple, Anderson
of probation under a dispensation. The first officers under the charter
were: Andrew J. Griffith, worshipful master; J. M. Dehority, senior
warden; David Barton, .junior warden. At the close of the year 1912
the lodge numbered 345 members. 0. D. Hinshaw and George W.
Osbom were the woi-shipful master and secretary, respectively, for the
year 1913. Quincy Lodge has a comfortable home and is in a prosperous
condition. Regular meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays
of each month.
Alexandria Lodge, No. 235, was organized under a dispensation dated
October 3, 1856, and received a charter bearing the same date as that of
268 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Quincy Lodge — May 25, 1858. The first officers of the lodge were R. H.
Hannah, worshipful master; John Cobiira, senior warden ; Moses Harris,
junior warden. The first hall owned by this lodge was 20 by 60 feet.
It now owiis tlie third floor of the large brick building at the northeast
corner of John and Harrison streets, where regular meetings are held
on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. In 1913 Blaine H. Ball
was the worshipful master, and Frank E. Henshaw was the secretary.
Alexandria Lodge has about two hundred members.
A Masonic lodge was organized at Perkinsville on June 3, 1858, under
dispensation, and on May 25, 1859, it received a charter as Perkinsville
Lodge, No. 247. At one time the lodge numbered over sixty members
and owned a well furnished liall, but reverses came and it finally sur-
rendered its charter.
Frankton Lodge, No. 290, received its charter on May 27, 1863, with
A. G. Tomlinson as worshipful master; William R. Stoker, senior
warden ; Lafayette Osbom, junior warden. The writer has been unable
to learn the history of this lodge, but it evidently has undergone a re-
organization of some kind, as the Masonic lodge at Frankton now bears
the number 607. The lodge has a comfortable, well equipped hall and
the secretary's report to the grand lodge for the year ending on Decem-
ber 31, 1912, showed sixty -one members. Regular meetings are held on
the first and third Fridays of each month. In 1913 Wayne L. Hobbs was
worshipful master and Elmer E. Carter was secretary.
Rural Lodge, No. 324, at Markleville, received its charter from tho
grand lodge on May 24, 1864, and was regularly organized with ten
charter members and the following officers: John Justice, woi-shipful
master ; John Boram, senior warden ; P. L. Seward, junior warden.
Meetings were at first held in the second story of Samuel Harden 's
dwelling and later over a shoe shop and in the second story of Hardy
& Lewis' store building. In March, 1879, the lodge surrendered its
charter, most of the members uniting with the lodge at Ovid. A few
years ago Markleville Lodge, No. 629, obtained a charter from tlie grand
lodge, and on December 31, 1912, reported forty members. For the year
1913 Lundy Seward was worshipful master and Frank Barnett was sec-
retary. Following the old Masonic tradition, this lodge holds its regular
meetings on "Thursday before the full moon."
A dispensation was granted to twelve Masons living in the vicinity
of Fishersburg, in September, 1875, to organize a lodge in that village.
No charter was ever obtained and in May, 1877, the lodge surrendered its
records and furniture to the grand lodge.
Lapel Lodge, No. 625, located in the town of that name, is one of the
youngest Masonic lodges in the county, but its membership is composed
of men who believe in the tenets of the order and consequently is in a-
prosperous condition. The membership is small — only thit-ty-nine on
December 31, 1913 — but constantly growing. Regular meetings are held
on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. In 1913 Herbert
Bates was worshipful master and Willard H. Thomas was secretary.
Fellowship Lodge, No. 681, which meets on the first and third Fridays
of each month in the Masonic Temple at Anderson, received its charter
on May 24, 1911. The worshipful master for 1913 was Edward Podmore
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 269
and the secretary was U. L. Millspaugh. The lodge has about fifty
members.
The youngest ^lasonic lodge in the county is located at Summitville.
It was first organized under a dispensation granted on July 6, 1912,
with Rol>ert B. Given as worshipful master ; Glen Lawrence, senior
warden ; Samuel B. Oilman, junior warden. A charter was granted by
the grand lodge which met in Indianapolis in May, 1913, when the lodge
was officially designated Summitville Lodge, No. 691. At the close of
the year 1912 the lodge reported twenty-one members. The master and
secretary for 1913 were respectively Robert B. Given and Carl L. Iliff.
In the summer of that year a new building was erected just south of the
bank, and the lodge acquired an interest in it by adding a story for
lodge purposes, thus cwning its own meeting place.
There are four Masonic chapters in the county, located at Pendleton,
Anderson, Alexandria and Elwood. Pendleton Chapter, No. 51, Royal
Arch Masons, is the oldest in the county. It was organized about the
close of the Civil war and holds its regular meetings on the third Friday
of each month. Anderson Chapter, No. 52, was organized in 1866 and
meets on the first Monday of each month. Alexandria Chapter, No.
99, holds its regular meetings on the second Thursday of each month,
and the meetings of Elwood Chapter, 109, are held every Thursday
evening. All four of these chapters are prosperous and number among
their members some of the best citizens of the towns in which they are
situated.
Councils of the Royal and Select Masons are located at Pendleton,
Anderson and Alexandria, and there is one commandery of Knights
Templar, which is at Anderson. This commandery was organized on
April 29, 1885, and holds its regular meetings on the third Thursday
of each month.
The Order of the Eastern Star, a degree that is open to the wives
and daughters of Master Masons, has chapters at Elwood, Pendleton,
Anderson and Alexandria. Elwood Chapter, No. 71, meets on the sec-
ond and fourth Wednesdays of each month; Pendleton Chapter, No.
138, meets on the same dates; Anderson Chapter, No. 154, holds its
meetings on the fiist and third Tuesdays, and Alexandria Chapter, No.
179, meets on the first and third Fridays.
The Odd Fellows
This benevolent order originated in England in the latter part of
the eighteenth century. In 1812 delegates from the lodges about Man-
chester met in that city and organized the "Manchester Unity, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellow^s. " Thomas Wildey and another Odd
Fellow came from England in 1818 and the next year organized a lodge
at Baltimore, Maryland, receiving their charter from the I\Ianchester
Unity. On February 1, 1820, Washington Lodge and the Grand Lodge
of Maryland was organized and a few years later the order in this
country severed its relationship with the Manshester Unity.
The first Odd Fellows' lodge in Madison county was instituted at
Pendleton on September 11, 1850, as Pendleton Lodge, No. 88. The
270
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
first officers were G. W. IJailey, noble grand ; James Beck, vice-grand ;
W. N. Lummis, secretary ; George Brown, treasurer. For some time the
lodge held its meetings in the ilasonic hall, where it was organized,
but in 1880 the trustees purchased a lot and in January, 1891, the Odd
Fellows' hall was dedicated with the customary rites of the order. At
the close of the year 1912 this lodge reported 282 members. Harry
Stevens was then noble gi-and and S. B. McKee was secretary.
Anderson Lodge, No. 131, the second in the county, was instituted
on April 18, 1853, in the room occupied by the Sons of Temperance in
the old courthouse. The first officers were : G. R. Diven, noble grand ;
R. N. Clark, vice-grand; A. ]\I. Williams secretary; William Wilson,
treasurer. Meetings were at first held in the room where the lodge was
organized, but in 1854 a room was secured on the third floor of the old
I. O. 0. F. Building
United States Hotel, at the southwest comer of Ninth and Main streets.
In 1867 an agreement was made with the owner of the lot at the north-
west corner of Ninth and Meridian streets, by which the third story
of a new building was added by the Odd Fellows for a lodge room.
This hall was destroyed by the gi-eat fire of jMay 17, 1875, but was
rebuilt. When the Presbyterians built their new church the old one at
the southeast corner of Ninth and Jackson streets was purchased by
the Odd Fellows. The building was remodeled, a new front added, and
here the lodge has one of the most comfortable and best arranged fra-
ternal buildings in the state. The lodge now numl>ers about five hun-
dred membere. In the grand lodge report for 1912 the name of Brice
Dille appears as noble grand and C. W\ Benbow as secretary.
The next Odd Fellows' lodge to be established in the county was
Quincy Lodge, No. 200, which was instituted at Elwood (then Quincy)
on July 30, 1858, with twelve charter members and the following officers :
HISTORY OP" MADISON COUNTY 271
Culpepper Lee, noble grand; John B. Frazier, vice-grand; B. T. Call-
away, secretary- ; Mark Simmons, treasurer. This lodge now has a mem-
bership of about four hundred and owns one of the best halls in the
county. Koy F. Mossy was noble grand and Ephraim Remmcl was sec-
retary at the end of the year 1912.
Perkinsville Lodge. No. 207, was instituted on May 18, 1859. A
comfortable hall was later acquired by the lodge and meetings were
held regularly on Tuesday evening of each week for a number of years.
Then a decline set in. Some of the members moved away, others died,
and about 1885 the lodge surrendered its charter.
On November 21, 1860, Necessity Ijodge, No. 222, was instituted at
Alexandria with ten charter members and the following officers : Cy-
renius Free, noble grand ; John Hea^y, vice-grand ; R. H. Cree, secre-
tary; S. B. Harriman, treasurer. The lodge now owns a substantial
three story brick building on West Church street and has about 240
members. Michael Furst was noble grand and I. S. Kelly secretary
when the last gi'and lodge report was issued in 1912. This is the only
fraternal society in IMadi.son county that owns a cemetery, an account
of which may be found in the preceding chapter.
An Odd Fellows' lodge was instituted at Fishei-sburg in the spring
of 1875 with eight charter membei-s, A. J. Fisher, noble grand; H. G.
Fisher, vice-grand: George Dunham, secretary. Five years later the
lodge numbered thirteen members, but it never prospered and after
struggling along for a few years more it surrendered its charter.
Summitville Lodge, No. 475, was organized on Decemlier 14, 1875,
with fifteen charter members. S. Fenimore was the first noble grand ,
Thomas J. Clark, vice-grand; L. S. Williams, secretary; E. Runyan,
treasurer. In 1892 a building was erected by the lodge, which now
numbers nearly 150 members. At the close of the year 1912 Lemuel
Dickerson was noble grand and A. F. Kaufman was secretary.
Other Odd Fellows' lodges in the county, with the membership and
principal officere at the close of the year 1912, were Frankton, No. 711,
John Hartley, noble grand. Dolph Meltzer, secretarv-, 109 members;
Gilman, No. 745, William E. Smith, noble grand, J. M. Morgan, secre-
tary, 54 members; Active (located at Anderson), No. 746, A. J. Dowe,
noble grand, H. F. Wright, secretary, 260 members ; Chesterfield, No.
786, R. C. Hall, noble grand, J. M. Heath, secretary, 68 members;
Linwood, No. 793, H. C. Warren, noble grand, R. S. Thompson, sec-
retary, 97 members: Lapel, No. 805, Albert Russell, noble grand, Perle.y
Schultz, secretarj', 106 members. All these lodges are in good condition
and some of them own their own buildings. In connection with each
lodge, except the one at Gilman, has been organized a lodge of the
Daughters of Rebekah, a society to which the wives and daughters of
Odd Fellows are eligible.
Sinai Encampment, No. 54, located at Pendleton, was organized on
March 12. 1857. and is the oldest encampment in the county. On May
21, 1867, Star Encampment, No. 84, was instituted at Andei-son. Since
then the following encampments have been established in the county.
Elwood, No. 168; Alexandria, No. 212; Frankton, No. 9,11; Gilman,
No. 322; Activity (at Anderson), No. 331; Lapel, No. 335.
272 HISTORY OF MADISON COUiNTY
Within the Odd Fellows is a uniformed organization known as the
Patriarclis Militant, the local branches of which are called cantons.
Three cantons have been organized in Madison county, viz: Anderson,
No. 3 ; Elwood, No. 33 ; and one at Alexandria. Anderson Canton was
organized in 1883 by Dr. Horace E. Jones, who drilled them so thor-
oughly that in a contest at Indianapolis in May, 1884, on the old state
fair grounds, they easily won first prize. Upon their return to Ander-
son the members of the drill team were given a banquet at the Doxey
House. A band composed of members of the order accompanied the
canton to Columbus, Ohio, at a later date, and here the drill team again
won first prize and the band, under the leadership of Dallas K. Elliott,
one of the best cornet players in the country, was awarded a medal.
In 1886 the canton again took third prize at St. Paul, Minnesota.
Elwood Canton had for a drill master Captain Nett Nuzum, under
whose instruction the drill team became so efficient that it won several
prizes in the latter '80s. In September, 189], at St. Louis, Missouri,
Captain Nuzum entered his team into a competitive drill contest with the
leading cantons of the country and carried off first honors.
Knights op Pytbias
On Februarj' 15, 1864, Justus H. Rathbone, Robert A. Champion,
William H. and David L. Burnett, and Edward S. Kimball, five govern-
ment clerks at Washington, D. C, met and listened to the ritual of a
new secret order that had been prepared by Mr. Rathbone. As the basis
of the ritual was the friendship of Damon and Pythias, the new order
was named the Knights of Pythias and on February 19, 1864, Washing-
ton Lodge, No. 1, was formally organized. A few weeks later Franklin
Lodge, No. 2, was instituted, and early in April the grand lodge was
organized at Washington. Just at that time the country was in the
throes of civil war and the order made slow progress. On May 1, 1866,
Franklin Lodge was the only one in existence. It was used as a nucleus,
around which the organization was strengthened, new lodges multiplied
and on August 5, 1870, the supreme lodge was incorporated by act of
congress. Since then the order has prospered and has been extended
into every state in the union, as well as to foreign lands.
The first Knights of Pythias lodge in Madison county was Ander-
son Lodge, No. 106, which was instituted on January 19, 1883, with
twenty-one charter members. On November 23, 1894, this lodge dedi-
cated a hall on the third floor of the Donnelly block on Meridian street
between Twelfth and Thirteenth streets, the third story of that building
being owned by the lodge. According to the last available report of the
grand lodge, Anderson Lodge had 188 members at the end of the year
1912, when F. E. Neal was chancellor commander and W. A. Boy den
was keeper of the records and seal. The regular meetings of this lodge
are held on Tuesday evening of each week.
Elwood Lodge, No. 166, the second in the county, was instituted on
March 31, 1887. It is now the strongest and wealthiest lodge in the
county, having a membership of nearly four hundred and owning real
estate valued at $18,000. Regular meetings are held on Wednesday
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 273
evenings. John AV. Grimes, of this lodge, was the deputy grand chan-
cellor in 1912 for the Tenth district, composed of the counties of Hamil-
ton, Tipton, iladison and Delaware. At the same time Claude Wright
was chancellor commander of the lodge and L. AI. Gross was keeper of
the records and seal.
Sicilian Lodge, No. 234, located at Pendleton, was organized on
December 19, 1889. It now has a membership of about 225 and owns
real estate valued at $10,000. The lodge meets every Tuesday evening.
Frankton Lodge, No. :ilo, was instituted on April 30, 1891, and now
has over one hundred and fifty members. It owns real estate valued
at $1,800 and is in a prosperous condition. Regular meetings are held
on Thursday evenings.
Alexandria Lodge, No. 335, was instituted on December 3, 1891,
and now owns real estate worth $4,000. The membership ,is about two
hundred and fifty and tlie regular meeting night is Tuesday of each
week. In the last grand lodge report the name of Will F. Schmitz ap-
pears as chancellor commander and that of W. C. Stewart as keeper of
the records and seal. In 1912 Blaine H. Ball of this lodge was a member
of the grand lodge committee on constitution and by-laws.
On May 5, 1892, Gas Belt Lodge, No. 362, was instituted at Summit-
ville. It now has alx)ut one hundred and seventy members and owns
real estate valued at $2,100. W^ednesday evening of each week is the
time for regular meetings. Ludie Warner was chancellor commander at
the close of 1912, and R. B. Givens was keeper of the records and seal.
Lapel Lodge, No. 386, was instituted on April 6, 1893, and now has
about one hundred and twenty-five members. Regular meetings are
held on Monday evenings.
Banner Lodge, No. 416, located at Anderson, was instituted on April
17, 1895, ^nth eighty charter members, many of whom had withdrawn
from Anderson Lodge for the purpose of organizing a new one. In
1912 the lodge reported 231 members and is constantly adding new ones
to the list. Its regular meeting night is Thursday. J. C. Shuman was
chancellor commander and A. L. Jacobs was keeper of the records and
seal when the last grand lodge report was issued.
Orestes Lodge, No. 471, a'hd Markleville Lodge, No. 479, are the two
j'oungest lodges in the county. The former was instituted on May 29,
1899, and the latter on Februarj^ 16, 1900. Orestes Lodge owns real
estate valued at $1,800 and has about eighty members. It meets every
Thursday evening. Markleville Lodge has over fifty members and owns
real estate worth $500. Friday evening of each week is the time for
holding regular meetings.
The lodges at Pendleton, Anderson and Elwood have companies of
the Uniform Rank, and in connection with all the principal lodges are
temples of the Pythian Sisters, the ladies' degree of the order. The
oldest and strongest of these temples are the ones at Anderson, Elwood
and Alexandria.
Improved Order of Red Men
This order claims an unbroken succession from the Sons of Liberty,
a patriotic order at the time of the American Revolution. It was mem-
[^!S'*0'
V^«»«*,- "V^*^ ">r-<^*^'''
HISTORY OF JIADISON COUNTY 275
bers of the Sons of Liberty, disguised as Indians, who destroyed the tea
rather than pay the unjust tax, and this incident was made use of when
the Improved Order of Red Men was reorganized at Baltimore in 1835.
The local lodges or societies are called tribes and the principal officers
of the tribe bear Indian titles, such as sachem, prophet and sagamore.
There are three degrees — Adoption, Warrior and Chief — for the men,
and a degree called the Daughters of Pocahontas for the wives, daugh-
ters and sisters of the male members. There are also a uniformed rank
and a subordinate degree called the Haymakers. During the decade
ending in 1910 the order paid out in the United States over $6,000,000
for relief, burial expenses and the support of vvidows and orphans.
The first society of this order to be organized in ]\Iadison county was
Ononga Tribe, No. 50, which was instituted at Anderson in 1874. For
about three years its growth was slow and then a large number of
members came in. Two other tribes were later organized from Ononga,
viz. : Mingo and Kamala. The former was instituted on October 19,
1892, but has been discontinued, the members uniting with the other
tribes. Kamala Tribe, No. 157, was instituted on October 18, 1893.
Both Ononga and Kamala tribes are in flourishing condition and are
two of the strongest fraternal societies in Anderson. Each has an
organization of Haymakers.
After the organization of Ononga Tribe at Anderson, the next to be
established was Mashingomisha Tribe, No. 110, at Alexandria. This
tribe meets every Friday evening and the Mashingomisha Haymakers
on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
Seneca Tribe, No. 113, located at Elwood, was the next organization
of Red Men in the county. This tribe owns a handsome building and
is one of the strongest tribes financially in Madison county. Regular
meetings are held on Tuesday evenings and the Seneca Haymakers hold
meetings on Friday evenings.
Oconee Tribe, No. 159, was instituted at Pendleton on November 26,
1892. Meetings are held every Wednesday evening. Subsequently the
Oconee Haymakers were organized and they hold meetings on alternate
Monday evenings.
Neoskaleta Tribe, No. l4^, was organized at Summitville in the sum-
mer of 1892, and Onaway Tribe, located at Lapel, was instituted about
the same time. Both these tril)es are in prosperous condition.
The councils of the Daughters of Pocahontas in the county are as
follows : Wyoming, No. 49, at Elwood ; Oconee, No. 78, at Pendleton ;
Tahoma, No. 82, at Anderson ; Kamala, No. 124, at Anderson ; and
Winona, No. 143, at Alexandria.
Grand Army of the Republic
The Grand Army of the Republic is an organization of volunteer
soldiers who served in the war of 1861-65. It was founded soon after
the close of the war, but for the first fifteen years of its existence was
of rather slow growth. About 1880 there came a revival and during
the next decade the order spread to every state in the union. The pur-
poses of the order are to collect and preserve war relics and records,
276 HISTORY OF MADISON COUxNTY
maintain fraternal relations, and assist needy comrades. The local
organizations are called posts. The strongest post in Madison county,
though not the oldest, is Slajor May Post, No. 244, at Anderson. It was
organized on September 18, 1883, with seventy-one charter members.
For several years it met in various halls about the city, but in 1895
arrangements were made with Major Charles T. Doxey to provide a
permanent home in a building at the northwest comer of Ninth street
and Central avenue. This hall was completed in May, 1896, and the
post met there for some time. It now has quarters in a room in the
courthouse basement. The present membership is about 150. A few
years ago an Anderson photographer (Mr. Clark) made pictures of
nearly all the members of this post and arranged them in a group, which
is here presented that the reader may see the type of men Madison
county furnished to the country's defenders in 1861.
Beginning at the upper left hand corner and reading from left to
right, the members of this post are as follows:
Top Row — William A. Kindle, John Madison, Cornelius Moore, J.
A. Mahan, A. H. Workman, William L. Jones, John F. W. Meyers, C.
C. Johnson, Slavin Graham, Adam Fath, John Cather, George T. Pen-
niston, Henry Clark, H. J. Stein, Vincent Carroll, C. P. G. Austin.
Second Row — D. P. Maynard, M. L. Patton, A. J. Applegate, W. H.
H. Quick, M. G. Watkins, Jacob Harter, John S. Handy, WiUiam F.
Branson, John H. Harrison, John W. Cherington, John B. Swart,
Joshua Kirk, Noah H. Randall, Alfred Brown, James Murphey.
Third Row — John S. Steel, Dempsy Waggy, George Nichol, Jacob
Koehler, John H. Terhune, George Mathes, James L. Webb, James
Clark, Enoch Alexander, B. L. Pickering, Theodore Zion, D. F. Mus-
tard, William Hubbard, John W. Goff, H. E. Jones, James W. Streets.
Fourth Row — D. A. Taylor, WiUiam A. Craven, Robert P. Brickley,
George W. Hackleman, Isaac Foland, Jacob Ellis, John Reynolds, Elias
Falknor, William Mahoney, James Redd, Stephen Metcalf, Samuel Mc-
Nutt, William B. Miller, E. W. Clifford, Henry Kessler.
Fifth Row — William Keiser, Samuel Hicks, John C. Kiight,
Joseph Poor, Jonas Stewart, WiUiam Callahan, Jesse Forkner, Alansing
Lamaster, Henry T. Denius, Moses C. White, Melville B. Cox, Peter
B. Millspaugh, Samuel Todd, Jacob Mays, Samuel Longnecker, Daniel
Stewart.
Sixth Row — Samuel Van Pelt, Thomas L. Brooks, William Dayton,
C. S. Fifer, John Baker, Robert Dorste, William W. CUfford, Robert B.
Mason, B. B. Campbell, Henry Mitchell, Hiram H. Palmer, George W.
Shreeve, Joseph Brown, William Venemon, John A. Cook.
Seventh Row — Thomas Foland, James Gwinn, John Umensetter,
Stephen Price, James Kenroy, W. T. Durbin, Henry C. Durbin, H. H.
Durbin, Ezra Her, John P. Parson, John Hoover, George E. Springer,
John A. Gains, Samuel C. Miller, Abner G. Clark, John Titherington.
Eighth Row — 0. L. Shaul, John McCurley, D. B. Davis, John Run-
yan, James T. Knowland, A. I. Makepeace, Isaac Wood, L. D. Crawley,
B. H. Perse, Joseph R. Cravens, Thomas Talmage, James G. Jeffers,
W. B. Carroll, Henry Vinyard, E. R. Cheney.
Ninth Row — A. D. Ethel, Daniels Rhoads, John W. Lovett, John
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
277
Besom, Warren L. Coot§, F. M. Van Pelt, S. G. Bevelheimer, Edmund
Johnson, Jerome J. Musser, Gambrel Little, John F. Wilson, George F.
Ethel, Thomas Paxton, George W. Lawson, William L. Lundy, W. R.
Myers.
Tenth Eow— John W. Riley, Samuel Wolf, J. B. Howard, J. C.
Mathews, John Turner, John F. Thompson, Samuel A. Towell, Pennell
M. Keepers, Henry Ray, Carl Broanenberg, Joseph A. Studebaker,
John J. Muldowii, Lafe J. Burr, John Featherstone, Amos McGuire.
This post was named in honor of Isaac M. May, who was mustered
into the volunteer service of the United States on July 29, 1861, as
captain of Company A, Nineteenth Indiana Infantry, was promoted to
major of the regiment and was killed at the battle of Gainesville, Vir-
LiviNG Flag
ginia, August 28, 1862. In connection with the post is the Women's
Relief Corps, No. 70, which was organized in 1887, and which meets on
the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.
Elwood Post. No. 61, was one of the first to be organized in this
section of the state. It was at one time also one of the strongest, but
the scythe of time has cut down many of the old veterans comprising its
membership. Meetings of this post are held on alternate Saturday
afternoons. Elwood Women's Relief Corps, No. 117, meets on alternate
Monday afternoons.
Major Henry Post, No. 230, located at Pendleton, was organized on
August 28, 1883, and was named in honor of ]\Iajor Samuel Henry, who
entered the service as captain of Company B, Eighty-ninth Indiana
278 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Infantry, in August, 1862, and was murdered in cold blood by guer-
rillas near Greenton, Missouri, November 1, 1864.
Lew Taylor Post, No. 243, at Alexandria, was established in the
summer of 1883. Its meetings are held on the second and fourth Tues-
days of each month, in the afternoon, and the Alexandria Women's
Relief Corps, No. 200, meets on alternate Thursdays.
Hiram G. Fisher Post, located at Lapel, was named in honor of a
Madison county boy who was commissioned captain of the Fishersburg
Union Guards in the summer of 1861 and later entered the volxmteer
service as first lieutenant of Company E, Thirty-fourth Indiana
Infantry.
One of the most notable events in the history of Anderson was the
entertainment of the state encampment of the Grand Army of the
Republic in May, 1903, when the citizens of the city expended over
$7,000 in caring for members of this patriotic order. A feature of the
encampment was a living flag, composed of Anderson school children,
placed upyon an inclined scaffolding reaching from the sidewalk to the
roof of the courthouse and facing on Eighth street. The idea originated
with Captain Jerome J. Musser, of Major INIay Post, who had charge of
the erection of the scaffolding, and the children who participated in
forming the national colors were under the guidance of Prof. John W.
Carr, then superintendent of the Anderson public schools. No other
city in Indiana has ever attempted to rival this demonstration and at
each subsequent state encampment the "living flag of Anderson" has
been a topic for conversation.
The order known as the Sons of Veterans is represented in Madison
county by R. L. Leeson Camp, No. 305, at Elwood, and J. P. Condo
Camp, No. 364, at Alexandria. Major Doxey Camp was organized at
Anderson some years ago, but it has lapsed into a state of inactivity.
Loyal Order of Moose
This order was first established at Louisville, Kentucky, in 1888,
and for a few years enjoyed a fair growth, reaching a total of thirty
lodges and a membership of five thousand. Then came a decline and in
1907 there were but three lodges and less than three hundred members.
About that time James J. Davis, of Anderson, undertook the work of
reorganizing and building up the order. He associated with him Rod-
ney H. Brandon, then the presiding officer of Anderson Lodge, No. 1,
the first to be instituted under the new regime. In 1908 Mr. Brandon
was elected supreme secretary and the offices of the supreme lodge were
removed to Anderson. On September 30, 1913, the order showed a
total of 1,425 subordinate lodges, with a total membership of over five
hundred thousand. Recently the supreme lodge has purchased one
thousand acres of fine land near Aurora, Illinois, where the order is
erecting a vocational school for the children of members and a home for
dependents, both young and old. The two Moose lodges in Madison
county are located at Anderson and Elwood.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUXTY
279
The Elks
The Benevolent and Protective Order of KIks had its foundation in
a elul) organized in New York soon after the close of the Civil war,
when a number of ""good fellows" were in the habit of meeting at some
suitable plaee to beguile the evening with singing songs, telling stories,
etc. At first the elub, the plan of which was originated by a young
Englishman named Charles S. Vivian, was known as the "Jolly Corks."
By 1868 the membership had increased to such proportions that it was
decided to establish a secret order. A committee was appointed to select
a name. Upon visiting Barnum's museum the committee saw an elk and
learned something of the animal's habits, which inspired them to select
the name of Elks for the new society. The motto of the order is : " The
faults of our brethren we write upon the sands; their virtues upon the
Elks' Home, Anderson
tablets of love and memory." As there is no state grand lodge, the
work of obtaining information concerning the individual lodges is some-
what difficult.
Anderson Lodge, No. 209, was instituted on June 30, 1891, with
thirty-one charter members, in the Odd Fellows' hall, and the ceremony
of institution was followed by a banquet at the Doxey Music hall. The
lodge now owns an equity in the building at the northwest corner of
Main and ?]leventh streets, where the members have well appointed
club and lodge i-ooms on the third floor. From the memliership of
Anderson Lodge have been formed Elwood Lodge, No. 368, and Alex-
andria Lodge, No. 478. The former has club rooms in the second
story of the building formerly occupied by the First National Bank,
and the latter has its headquarters in the Alexandria Opera House
building. All three of the Madison county lodges are in prosperous
condition.
280 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Miscellaneous
The?-e are in the county several orders represented in the principal
cities and towns, of which it was impossible to get detailed information.
So far as possible a list of these lodges is given below, together with
any historical infor:nation that could be procured.
Pendleton Grove, No. 20, United Ancient Order of Druids, was
organized on April 5, 1895. A grove or lodge of this order was organ-
ized at Anderson on July 22, 1896, but after a short existence it sur-
rendered its charter. Subsequently it was revived as Progress Grove,
No. 27, and is now in fairly prosperous shape.
The Woodmen of the "World are represented by "White Oak Camp,
No. 29, at Lapel; Hemlock Camp, No. 18, at Anderson, the regular
meetings of which are held on Tuesday evenings; Hemlock Grove, No.
5, "Woodmen's Circle, which meets on alternate Friday afternoons;
Elwood Camp, No. 95, and "Woodmen's Circle, No. 51, at Elwood, the
former of which holds meetings on Wednesday and the latter on Friday
evenings.
The Modern Woodmen of America camps are as follows : Oak Leaf,
No. 3690, at Anderson ; Elwood, No. 4416 ; Alexandria, No. 5976 ; Pen-
dleton, No. 14,374. The Anderson camp holds meetings on Monday
evenings, the Elwood camp on Wednesday evenings, the Alexandria
camp on Tuesday evenings, and the Pendleton camp on Friday even-
ings. Allied to this order are the Royal Neighbors of America. The
camps and times of regular meetings are as follows: Anderson, No.
2607, Fridays; Elwood, No. 3812, first and third Tuesdays of each
month; Jewel Camp, No. 5976, Alexandria, Mondajs.
In the Knights of the Maccabees the lodges of the men are called
tents and the Ladies of the Maccabees meet in hives. This order is
represented by Tent No. 39, and Hive No. 62, at Anderson; Elwood
Tent, No. 60, and Hive No. 66, at Elwood; Alexandria Tent, No. 112,
and Hive No. 61, at Alexandria.
Anderson Aerie, No. 174, Fraternal Order of Eagles, meets every
Thursday evening; Elwood Aerie, No. 201, on Wednesdays, and Invinc-
ible Aerie, No. 1771, of Alexandria, on Wednesday evenings.
Hazelwood Court, Ancient Order of Foresters, was instituted in the
early '90s and holds its meetings at Kirkliam's hall, Hazelwood. The
Improved Order of Foresters is represented by Court Quincy, No. 62,
Court Elwood, No. 1097, and Court Madison, No. 4968, all at Elwood;
Court Anderson, No. 3110, and White River Court, No. 1094, at Ander-
son.
The Tribe of Ben Hur is represented by three courts or lodges in
the city of Anderson, viz. : Isis Court, No. 32, which meets on Tuesday
evenings, and Iderned Court, No. 26, and Amrah Court, No. 30, which
meet on call of the officers.
Several societies closely connected with the Catholic church have
been organized at Anderson and Elwood. The principal ones are Ander-
son Council, No. 563, Knights of Columbus, and the Elwood Council of
the same order, both of which hold meetings on Tuesday evenings;
Anderson Council, No. 646, Catholic Knights of America, which was
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 281
organized in 1893 ; Cardinal Manning Council, No. 376, of the Catholic
Benevolent Legion, at Elwood; Court St. Joseph, No. 1120, Catholic
Order of Foresters, at Elwood; the Federated Catholic Clubs of
Elwood; and the Anderson and Elwood divisions of the Ancient Order
of Hibernians.
Anderson Castle, No. 4, Knights of the Golden Eagle, was organized
on January 18, 1890, with sixty-eight charter members. Two years
later was organized Hope Temple, No. 3, Ladies of the Golden Eagle,
and still later were organized the Anderson Commandery, Uniform
Rank, and the Supreme Order of Wise Guys, Anderson Retreat, No. 1,
an organization intended to promote the welfare of the Knights of the
Golden Eagle.
The Knights and Ladies of Honor have lodges at Anderson and
Alexandria; the Yeoman at Anderson and Elwood; the Supreme Lodge,
Camels of the World is located in Anderson; and the Junior Order
American Mechanics at Anderson and Pendleton. Other lodges or
societies are the Pathfinders, No. 7, at Anderson; the Daughters of
Liberty, at Elwood; the Sons of St. George, at Anderson and Elwood;
Post 0, Travelers' Protective Association, which meets once a month
at the Grand Hotel in Anderson ; United Comjnercial Travelers, No. 182,
at Anderson ; the United Order of the Golden Cross, at Elwood ; the
Protected Home Circle, at Andei-son ; Nest No. 84, of the Orioles, at
Anderson; Elwood Nest, No. 66, and Anderson Nest, No. 84, Order of
Owls; the Knights and Ladies of Columbia, No. 115, at Elwood; the
Equitable Aid Union and the National Union, of Anderson, and Eureka
Court, No. 259, also of Anderson. The Order of Plowmen have but one
organization in the county — Elwood Council, No. 14. Anderson Lodge,
No. 5, Order of Lincoln, was organized on September 22, 1896, with
thirty charter members. The only Knights of Honor lodge in the county
of which there is any record was organized at Anderson on May 18,
1875, and during the next twenty yeai-s paid out nearly $25,000 in
benefits.
Among the labor organizations of Anderson, Elwood and Alexandria
may be mentioned the unions of stationery engineers, tjqDesetters, glass-
workers, sheet metal workers, bricklayers, carpenters, painters and
decorators, iron molders, electrical workers, stage employees, barbers,
plumbers, musicians, electric railway employees, brewery workers, tai-
lors, retail clerks, file workers, cigar makers, tin plate workers and a
few others, most of which are associated with the Madison County Fed-
eration of Labor. The trades union came with the discovery of natural
gas and has remained after the supply of gas failed, but it is worthy of
note that Anderson has never been disturbed by any serious strike, and
the same is true of Alexandria and Elwood.
On January 30, 1909, Kikthawenund Chapter, Daughters of the
American Revolution, was organized at Anderson with Mrs. John W.
Lovett, regent; Mrs. H. C. Durbin, vice-regent; Mrs. Andrew Ellis,
recording secretary ; Miss Kate Chipman, corresponding secretary ;
Mrs. S. E. Young, treasurer; Mrs. I. E. May, historian. This chapter
was named for tlie old Delaware Indian chief whose wigwam once stood
where the city of Anderson is now situated.
CHAPTER XVII
MILITARY HISTORY
Madison County in the War With Mexico — The Civil War — Loyal
Spirit op ths Citizens — Meeting at the Courthouse — The First
Company From Madison County — Rosters op the Various Com-
panies— Historical Sketches of the Regiments in Which They
Serv-ed — Cavalry' and Artillery Organizations — Spanish- Ameri-
can War — jMadison County Represented in Two Regiments.
It has been said that war brings an element of patriotism that can-
not be developed by any other means. However that may be, the sons
of Madison county have never been backward in responding to the coun-
try's call for volunteers in time of need. The county had been organ-
ized but twenty-three years when the nation became involved in a war
with Mexico over the annexation of Texas to the United States. Formal
declaration of war was made by the Congress on May 11, 1846, and
almost immediately afterward came a call for troops. Under that call
Indiana sent out two regiments — the First and Second Volunteer In-
fantry— in each of which were a number of Madison county men, but
in the absence of the muster rolls it is impossible to tell just how many
or who they were.
A second call was made by President Polk in May, 1847, when a com-
pany was organized at Marion, Grant county, composed of volunteers
from that county and Madison. John M. Wallace, of Marion, was
commissioned captain of the company, which marched to Indianapolis,
via Anderson, and reported to the state authorities that it was ready for
service. From Indianapolis the company proceeded by rail to Madison,
thence down the Ohio river by steamboat to Jeffersonville, where it went
into camp. On the last day of May it was mustered into the United
States service and assigned to the Fourth Indiana Volunteer Infantry as
Company A. This regiment, commanded by Colonel Willis A. Gorman,
left Jeffersonville early in June by steamer bound for New Orleans
and upon arriving there ordered to Brazos Santiago, near the mouth
of the Rio Grande. It then marched about 160 miles up that river
and remained there for nearly a month, when it returned to the mouth
of the river. Soon after that it embarked on a vessel for Vera Cruz,
where it was attached to the brigade commanded by General Joseph Lane.
On September 19, 1847, General Lane left Vera Cruz to go to the relief
of Colonel Childs at Puebla, whei-e there was a hospital filled with sick
and wounded American soldiers threatened bj' the Mexican General
Santa Anna.
282
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 283
At the battle of Huamantla, October 9, 1847, Colonel GorinaQ came
up to the support of the United States cavalry just in time to turn
defeat into victory, and after the capture of the city his regiment was
stationed at the arsenal. A few days later the Fourth Indiana led the
advance in the assault on Puebla, which resulted in another victory,
and Colonel Childs' garrison of sick and disabled soldiers was rescued
from a perilous position. From that time until the close of the war the
Fourth was on duty and was engaged in a number of skirmishes with
the enemy. On December 19, 1847, it joined the main body of the army
under General Winfield Scott, in the city of Mexico, where it remained
on guard duty until orders came on June 1, 1848, to return hoine. The
regiment marched to Vera Cruz, sailed from that city for New Orleans,
then proceeded by steamboat up the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to
Madison, Indiana, where it was mustered out on July 20, 1848.
The members of Captain "Wallace's company who enlisted from
Madison county were : Nineveh Berry, commissary of subsistence ;
Joseph Hunt, corporal; Reuben Stephenson, drummer; Levi Brewer,
Jacob Booser, William Collis, John Dedman, Thomas Dillon, Alexander
Greenlee, Solomon Harpold, John Hicks, Levi Kuowlton, Benjamin
Moore, James Moore, Samuel Moore, Isaac Rheubart, Jacob Spucher,
David Vanasdell, privates. John Dedman died at Perote, Mexico,
December 11, 1847, and Thomas Dillon died at Puebla on March 28,
1848. Jacob Spucher was discharged at New Orleans on June 15, 1848,
for disability, and the other men were mustered out with the company
at iMadison.
During the quarter of a century that followed the war with Mex-
ico, a number of veterans who had served in that conflict settled' in
Madison county. On November 14, 1874, a number of these veterans
met at the auditor's office in the courthouse at Anderson and made
preparations to attend the convention of the surviving soldiers of the
Mexican war at Indianapolis on January 7 and 8, 1875, "and unite
with them in an appeal to a generous country and patriotic Congress
and executive, to add the names of the surviving soldiers in the Mexican
war to the list of pensioners, to the end that the Nation's bounty may
be extended to all, who, by' their deeds of noble daring have contributed
to maintain the rights and uphold the honor of our country either at
home or abroad."
Eight of the fourteen townships in the county were represented in
the meeting as follows : Adams, John Probasco ; Anderson, Nineveh
Berry and W. J. Philpot; Boone, Micajah Francis; Duck Creek, J. R.
Morris and S. T. Tetrick; Fall Creek, H. P. Shaffer, John Hicks and
Brady ; Jackson, John Ilendren ; Pipe Creek, R. P. Moler, Bran-
nock and James Ripley and Robert P. Garretson ; Union. Levi Brewer.
A glance at these names discloses the fact that Nineveh Berry and Levi
Brewer were the only ones credited to Madison county at the time of
the war. the others having become residents at a later date.
The CniL "War
From the time of the Missouri Compromise in 1820 to the election of
Abraham Lincoln to the presidency of the United States in I860, the
284 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
slavery question was a "bone of contention" in nearly every session of
the national congress. During the political campaign of 1860 threats
were frequently made by some of the slave states that, if Mr. Lincobi
were elected, they would withdraw from the luiion. South Carolina
carried out this threat on December 20, 1860, when he^- state convention
passed an ordinance of secession. Mississippi seceded on January 9,
1861 ; Florida, January 10th ; Alabama, January 11th ; Georgia, Janu-
ary 19th; Louisiana, January 26th, and Texas, February 1st. Hence,
when Mr. Lincoln was inaugurated on Llarch 4, 1861, he found seven
states already in rebellion against his authority. Arkansas, North Caro-
lina, Tennessee and Virginia subsequently passed ordinances of seces-
sion.
Early in the year 1861, Major Robert Anderson, who was in command
of the defenses in Charleston harbor, removed his garrison from Fort
Moultrie to Fort Sumter, in order to be in a stronger position in ease an
attack were made. The secessionists looked upon this as a hostile move-
ment and began the erection of batteries with a view to the reduction of
the fort. On January 9, 1861, the steamer Star of the West, an unarmed
vessel bearing supplies to Major Anderson, was fired upon and forced
to turn back. Officially, the Civil war dates from this incident, but the
general public was not thoroughly aroused to the gravity of the situation
until three months later.
At half past four o'clock on the morning of April 12, 1861, the first
shot of the Civil war, as popularly understood, was directed against the
solid walls of Fort Sumter. A constant cannonading was kept up until
the 14th, when the garrison was permitted to retire from the fort with
the honors of war, saluting the flag before it was hauled down. Major
Anderson capitulated on Sunday, and on Monday, April 15, 1861, Pres-
ident Lincoln issued a call for 75,000 volunteers to preserve the union
and suppress the rebellion.
All over the north, when the telegraph flashed the news that Fort
Sumter had been fired upon, the excitement was intense. On Saturday
evening, April 13th, two days before the call for troops was issued, a
mass meeting was held at the courthouse in Anderson to consider the
situation. Speeches were made by Dr. To\rasend Ryan, Colonel Milton
S. Robinson, Robert D. Traster, Joseph Buckles, of Muncie, then circuit
judge, and others, all expressing the same opinion — that the national
administration should be upheld at all hazards. Political differences
were forgotten in the general indignation at the insult offered to the
flag. In an hour's time every man present who was eligible for military
duty — and some who were not eligible — volunteered his services, in case
they were necessary, to preserve the union. Altogether, 186 men volun-
teered, a company was at once organized and W. R. ]\Iyers was elected
captain, but declined in favor of Hiram T. Vaudevender.
Eighth Infantry
On Tuesday, April 16th, Governor Oliver P. Morton issued liis call
for volunteers to fill the state's quota of the 75,000 troops called for
by the president. The next day Captain Vandevender tendered the gov-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 285
ernor a full company of one hundred men, which was accepted, and on
the 22nd was mustered into the United States service for three months
as Company E, Eighth Indiana Infantry, with Hiram T. Vandevender,
captain ; John T. Robinson, first lieutenant ; James Fergrus, second lieu-
tenant; John D. Johnson, first sergeant; William T. Ryan, James A.
Giles and William H. Miller, sergeants; Francis McKahan, Andrew H.
Rockenfield, George H. Dula and Ephraim Doll, corporals; Andrew
Kramer and David Kilgore, musicians, and the following privates:
Washington Alderman, Benjamin F. Allen, Jloses Andrews, William
Atkins, Joseph Beck, Robert Brickley, George Clutter, Thomas Cum-
mings, Benjamin Curtis, George W. Davis, Madison Davis, William H.
Dunham, Hampton Ellis, Edmund Ferris, Henry C. Godwin, Richard
J. Hall, John Hardin, Jacob H. HuUabaugh, Nathan B. Hawhey, Lewis
K. Helvie, Samuel Henry, Michael Housman, David Hurlburt, John H.
Hunt, James M. Irish, Oliver Irish, James H. Lewark, William H.
Martin, Thomas JIadden, Charles A. Maul, Corydon W. Maul, John C.
McCallister, George W. McGraw, James W. McGraw, Michael McGuire,
Thomas McGuire, Joseph McKinnon, Andrew H. Melross, William B.
Mershon, John Moore, Abraham Nicholas, Thomas Orr, Joseph W. Par-
son, John Polk, Nathan Prather, Elisha J. Puckett, Joseph W. Redding,
Jonathan B. Rinavalt, Enoch M. Roach, William Scott, Smith D. Shan-
non, William H. Shelly, Jesse W. Shiner, John A. Shiner, Mathias
Snelson, Augustus Teague, Albert A. Titherington, John D. Tithering-
ton, William H. H. Vernon, Henry Vinyard, Adolphus Walden, Miner
Walden, George Walker, John Wyman.
The regiment, commanded by Colonel William P. Benton, remained
in camp at Indianapolis, engaged in drilling, etc., until the 19th of June,
when it was ordered to western Virginia and on the 22nd went into
camp near Clarksburg. Here it was assigned to a brigade commanded
by General William S. Rosecrans and moved to Buckhannon. On July
11, 1861, it was engaged at Rich Mountain, where Joseph Beck was
killed in a charge upon the enemy's position. On July 24th it was
ordered back to Indianapolis, where it arrived four days later, and on
August 6, 1861, was mustered out.
After the three months' campaign the regiment was reorganized
under its old commander — Colonel William P. Benton — and on Septem-
ber 5, 1861, was mustered into the United States service at Indianapolis
for three years "or during the war." At different times during this
service, the regiment bore upon its muster rolls the names of 139 Madi-
son county boys. James K. Bigelow was made a.ssLstant surgeon ; Wat-
son Adams, Joseph Geik, William F. Fisher and Jacob H. Kinsey were
members of Company A ; Alfred Painter, Alfred and Avery Riggs and
James Williams ser^'cd in Company E ; John A. Gunckle, John Lloyd
and Jasper Rutherford, in Company F ; John N. Elder, Elijah Fiant,
Alexander Hale, Charles Kelly, John Kelly, William B. Pruett and
David N. Robinson, in Company I.
In the reorganization Captain Vandevender's company became Com-
pany K, the i-oster of which at the time of muster in on September 5,
1861, was as follows : Hiram T. Vandevender, captain ; Lorenzo D.
McAllister, first lieutenant; Geoi;'e H. Dula, second lieutenant; John
286 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
H. Hieks, first sergeant; Hampton Ellis, Lewis K. Helvie, Robert Fry,
James Poindexter, sergeants ; Andrew Melross, John J. Pence, James 6.
McCaJIister, Thomas W. Huston, John M. Hunt, Charles Lawsou, Dan-
iel R. Hurlburt, Abram V. Nash, corporals; Corydon McCallister and
Andrew F. Kramer, musicians; George W. Ileagy, wagoner.
Privates — James Alderman, David Anshoot, Philip Anshoot, George
Anshoot, William Atkins, William Baker, Ezra Basicker, James Black,
William H. Bowers, Robert A. Bi-own, Abijah W. Chatman, Samuel
Clark, William Conde, Abner V. Crosley, Simon Cummings, Thomas
Cummings, Isaiah Daniels, George W. Dennis, Larkin E. Dula, Franklin
Eastman, Job Gardner, iladison George, John Giles, Marion Graham,
Simon Gregory, Clinton J. Guthery, Benjamin Hair, Jeremiah Hicks,
Samuel Hicks, David Huston, Joseph L. Huston, William 6. Huston,
William H. Huston, Pliilip Jones, John Jones, Philip Keller, Joseph
Lanaham, Edward Lewark, Francis M. Lewark, James Lewark, Albert
E. Lemon, John Lyons, Sanford Mathews, George K. Maul, John T.
Mansfield, William H. McCallister, Robert J. McCallister, John W. Mc-
Carthey, William S. McCarthey, James McCabe, George Mowery, John
A. Neal, McDonald Perdue, Frederick Perget, Henry Perkins, George
Poor, Peter Priliman, Daniel Roberts, Reason Sargeaut, Charles A. Sav-
age, William Scott, William E. Scott, IsaiaJi Sharits, James Shawver,
John Smith, Lawson Spencer, Anderson Stevenson, Samuel Tibbitts,
Christopher Wall, Adolphus Walden, Minor J. Walden, Wiford Wean,
Henry Webb, Williams Wert, Ambrose Whitecotton, Owen Williamson,
David J. Williamson, Franklin Williamson, Marion Wood, Henry S.
Wyman, Charles W. Wynn, Ransom Young.
Recruits — John Baker, Lewis Cannon, John A. Fesler, James A.
Giles, John H. Gilmore, Noah C. Haines, John Harman, John B. Hus-
ton, Jeremiah Jenkins, John Lowe, William M. McCallister, Thomas
McCormac, James McGuire, George McCullough, Charles McCallister,
Joel Manning, James D. Roberts, James C. Shaw, Joseph. Scott, David
Werts.
On September 10, 1861, the regiment left Indianapolis for St. Louis,
where it was assigned to the command of General Fremont. It took
part in pursuit of General Price as far as Cross Hollows, Arkansas, was
engaged with the enemy at Pea Ridge, and in March, 1863, joined Gen-
eral Grant's army at Milliken's Bend, Louisiana, In the campaign
against Vicksburg it fought at Port Gibson, Champion's Hill, Black
River Bridge and a number of minor engagements. As part of General
McClemand's corps it was engagred in the assault on the works at Vicks-
burg, where Captain Vandevender was fatally wounded, his death oc-
curring on May 23, 1863, Lieutenant McAllister being promoted to the
command of the company. After the surrender of Vicksburg, the
Eighth was ordered to join General Banks in Louisiana and operated
in that state and Texas until in August, 1864, when it was ordered to
Virginia. There it was assigned to the Nineteenth eoi-ps, which was
part of General Sheridan's army in the Shenandoah Valley campaign.
The regiment took part in the battles of the Opequan, Fisher's Hill and
Cedar Creek and in January, was transferred to Savannah, Georgiet,
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 287
where it remained on post and guard duty until ordered home. It was
mustered out at Indianapolis on September 17, 1865.
Eleventh Infantry
George W. Lewis was a private in Company D, Ninth Infantry, and
the Eleventh Infantry received forty-one recruits from Madison county
in March, 1865. They were distributed to the various companies as fol-
lows: Company D, Benjamin Elliott and Jacob Payne; Company E,
Isaac Beeman, Samuel Beeman, Francis M. Boyden, Myron J. Boyden,
Jesse A. Brumley, William Bamett, Lewis Brown, Samuel S. Dewitt, Se-
bastian E. Douglass, John Fisher, John G. Foland, Nelson Foland,
Greenberry L. Freeman, Preslej' O. Garnis, John S. Hougham, Ensley
Hoover, Enos Hoover, William W. Miller, D. C. Marvin, John W.
Myrick, William Neese, John Richwine, William H. Rollins, Samuel
Shultz, Nathan F. Young; Company F, John G. Bamett, Michael
Dougherty, William Kurtz, Asa T. Lewis, Hugh J. Pippin, John B.
Clark; Company H, Harvey Clark, Noah B. Evans, Thornton Wilson;
Company K, Calvin G. Crampton, Charles H. Davis, Timothy Sullivan.
Three recruits — William H. Harding, Frank Somers and William T.
Smith — were not regularlj' assigned to any company. During the en-
tire service of these men they were engaged in guard duty at Balti-
more, Maryland.
Twelfth Infantry
Madison county was well represented in the Twelfth Infantry dur-
ing its first term of enlistment for one year, and when the regiment was
reorganized for the three years' service, in the summer of 1862, a large
part of Company G was recruited in Madison county. Of this company
James Huston was Captain; Robert Alfont, second lieutenant (promoted
to captain after the death of Captain Huston from disease contracted
while a prisoner of war) ; Ralph Cooper, first sergeant (promoted to
first lieutenant) : Richard J. Waterman and Thomas S. Huston, ser-
geants; John H. Hiday, Zachariah Kinnamon and John H. Cottrell,
corporals; Richard Alfont, Reuben M. Alfont, John W. Alexander,
Thomas B. Bannon, Henry Borchording, Benjamin Copper, Nathaniel
Copper, William Doty, Charles V. Harding, John Humphries, Joseph
Huston, James Jordan, George W. Kelly, James N. Kinnamon, Levi M.
Kinnamon, James McGuire, Ralph McGuire, John McVey, Lewis Mi-
chael, James Moulden, William H. ]\Ioulden, William T. Moulden,
Edward Pauley, George W. Piper, Mark Phillips, Isaac Ridenour,
Vantly Rumler, Amos Rush, Daniel Rush, Thomas M. Rush, Thomas
Steel, Amos Wilson, James Wilson and Daniel T. Wynn, privates.
Recruits — George Dunham, Franklin Hooker, Peter B. Leunen, Wil-
liam Thomas and Joseph B. Wiseman.
Moses D. Gage, a JIadison county man, was chaplain of the regi-
ment, and the following members of Company K were also from thia
county : David T. Brooks, William Connell, Thomas D. Denny, John
Engle, Charles Faulkner (corporal), Alexander Ford, Alexander Hor-
288 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ton, Jacob Kirk, Martin Linden, Robert "VV. McCallister, Nicholas Miller
(sergeant), James 0 'Riley, Elijah E. Stephens, Quiucy A. Whitten.
The regiment was mustered into the United States service at Indian-
apolis on August 17, 1862, for three years, and on the 30th of that
month was in the battle of Richmond, Kentucky, where it lost 173 in
killed and wounded. Among the latter was Colonel William H. Link,
commanding the regiment, who died on September 20, 1862. Nearly
the entire regiment was captured and after being exchanged joined the
army under General Grant in Mississippi. It participated in the cam-
paign against Vicksburg, was at the battle of of Jackson, Mississippi,
and then accompanied General Sherman to Chattanooga to relieve Gen-
eral Thomas, who was there besieged by the Confederates under General
Bragg. At the battle of Missionary Ridge, November 25, 1863, the
Twelfth lost sixty-two in killed and wounded. In 1864 it was with
Sherman on the Atlanta campaign and later participated in the cele-
brated "march to the sea." Then, up through the Carolinas, taking
part in numerous engagements, it marched via Richmond to Washing
ton, where it was in the grand review of May 24, 1865, after which it
was ordered to Indianapolis. There it was mustered out on June 14,
1865, with the exception of some recruits and drafted men, whose term.
of enlistment had not expired, and who were transferred to other regi-
ments.
Sixteenth Infantry
Dr. George P. Chittenden was assistant surgeon of the Sixteenth
Indiana Infantry during the regiment's one year's service, and when it
was reorganized for the three years' service he was appointed surgeon.
George F. Williams, another Madison county man, was quartermaster
of this regiment, having been promoted to that position from quarter-
master-sergeant.
In the reorganized Sixteenth the following Madison county men en-
listed in Company A: Eli Adams, Solomon Armfield, Solomon Bond,
Ziba Darlington, Solomon F. Hardy, Thomas M. Hardy, Charles James,
Joseph James, Davis Morton and George F. Williams.
Company K was recruited in Madison county. The roster of this
company was as follows : Charles T. Doxey, captain ; Edward 0. Doxey,
first lieutenant; Oliver C. Davis, second lieutenant (promoted from first
sergeant) ; John C. Blackmore, Clark P. Slade, Albert C. Davis, ser-
geants; Elisha J. Puckett, James Watkins, George W. Jennings, Wil-
liam A. Jennings, Culpepper Lee, Sylvanus Vanhom, Henry Wolfe
and Milton Dove, corporals ; James T. McCardle and William Rans-
bottom, musicians; Jesse Harris, wagoner.
Privates — Corb Adams, James W. Alderman, Jerry Ashbj^ Samuel
Bath, Daniel W. Bettis, Paschal Bradley, George W. Brown, Richard
Burden, Joseph N. Carpenter, Lorenzo D. Carter, Anthony Chamness,
George W. Chapin, Thomas J. Clark, William W. Clifford, Benton Cole,
Jason L. Cunningham, Jonathan Davis, Christopher J. Daze, Joseph
Dickey, George W. Dove, Montgomery Dowois, Thomas Downs, William
Doxey, Michael Doyle, Thomas J. Edwards, Joseph Foreman, Smith
Godwin, Harvey Hamilton, David N. Harris, Hezekiah Hart, William
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 289
Hart, John Harvey, John Hughes, Collins Jones, John Kaufman,
Michael Kelly, Edward Lippold, Patrick McCullough, Joseph L. Mc-
Kinnon, Lewis ^IcQuilliau, Daniel Mahoney, Isaac Minnick, Thomas
Murray, John W. Newton, William O'Brien, Michael O'Rourke, Isaiah
J. Osborn, Jeremiah Painter, James R. Parris, Oliver T. Parris, James
Parsons, William T. Perrj-, Alexander Pickard, Robert Ransbottom,
William B. Reed, Samuel Remmick, Samuel B. Richart, Henry Rigsby,
James Rigsby, William L. Rigsby, John Roan, Zachariah Smart, Frank
Smith, Willis Speany, George Stoker, John B. Taylor (promoted to sec-
ond lieutenant), Albert A. Titherington, Lewis H. Titherington, Robert
Titherington, John Troj', Stephen A. Williamson, John H. Woods, Josiah
W^orth.
Like the Twelfth, the Sixteenth Infantry was at first mustered into
service for one year. It was mustered out on May 14, 1862, and imme-
diately began the work of reorganizing for the three years' service.
Under command of Colonel Thomas J. Lucas it was mustered in on
August 19, 1S62, and the same day started for Kentucky to repel the
invasion of that state by the Confederates under General Kirby Smith.
At the battle of Richmond, Kentucky, August 30, 1862, the regiment
lost 175 in killed and wounded and about five hundred in captured or
missing. The prisoners were paroled and on October 1, 1862, all sur-
viving members of the command reported at Camp Morton, Indianapo-
lis, where the regiment was reorganized, enough recruits coming in to
bring the strength up to the proper quota. The recruits in Company K
were: Stephen Corwin, Benjamin Cavins, Pendleton Claud, Charles
Dinwiddle, James R. Ellison, Peter Emmett, Francis Glardon, James
S. Kimberly, Jacob Kribs, John Lee, Abner J. Luck, William Mason,
John W, Moore, Lewis Moore, James Sellers, William Seymour, Frank-
lin Slim, Joseph Westlake and James Ward. There were also six Madi-
son county boys added to the regiment but appear on the records aa
"unassigned." They were Timothy Akers, John Dunley, William Mad-
sagin, Aaron Weston, Jeremiah and James Wilson.
On November 26. 1862, the regiment was again ordered to the front
and joined General Sherman's forces at Memphis, Tennessee. It was
the first regiment to enter the enemy's works at Arkansas Post when
that place surrendered on January 11, 1863, after which it assisted in
the construction of the famous canal around Vicksburg. It was in
numerous engagements around Vicksburg and participated in the siege
of that city, losing sixty men in killed and wounded during the siege.
After the fall of Vicksburg and the battle of Jackson, the Sixteenth
was sent to Louisiana and took part in General Banks' Red River cam-
paign in the early part of 1864, protecting the rear of the army on the
retreat to New Orleans. It remained in Louisiana, engaged in various
lines of duty, until June 30, 1865, when it was mustered out at New
Orleans, the men proceeding to Indianapolis, where they drew their
final pay and were discharged.
Seventeenth Infantry
During its term of service, this regiment bore upon its muster rolls
tlie I'jiines of one hundred and forty men from the county of Madison.
Tol. 1— 1»
290 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Company G was recruited in the county and was mustered in with the
regiment for three years, at Indianapolis, June 12, 1861, under com-
mand of Col. John T. Wilder. At the time it entered the service the
officers of the company were as follows :
Robert C. Reid, captain ; Ethan M. Allen, first lieutenant ; Hiram J.
Daniels, second lieutenant ; John W. Ryan, first sergeant ; David T. W.
Peterman, Francis JI. Van Pelt, Emery W. Clifford, James DeM. Taylor,
sergeants ; John H. Wagner, William H. Benefiel, ^Milton P. Layman,
Charles M. Murphy, Charles Gustin, James E. Cook, corporals; Isaac
C. Shai-p and W^illiam W. Smith, musicians; Robert W. Reid, wagoner.
Privates — John R. Allsup, John W^. Allsup, William Banks, Seth
G. Bams, Joseph Bloom, Nathaniel Bowers, John T. Boyd, Jack Bren-
naman, Matthew Cane, Thomas Cantwell, Sanford Casebolt, Jacob
Childers, John Childs, William H. Connor, Daniel Daniels, James M.
Daniels, Hiram EUiott, Elijah Evans, William S. Evans, John T.
Fisher, James Gillaspie, Richard S. Gossett, Martin D. Hamilton,
Michael D. Hammonds, Hiram Harcum, Nicholas Heldt, James T.
(Hight, George P. Hopper, James Hoover, John Hoover, James Hub-
bard, Elijah B. Hullinger, James Jenkins, George T. Johnston, William
R. Jones, Francis M. Knight, George Kokoanider, Patrick Lamb, Jacob
Lott, John G. McKinney, James McLaughlin, James P. McMillen, Silas
McMillen, Judson L. Mann, Thomas Mann, W^illiam Meddee, Benjamin
Miller, Thomas J. Miller, William C. Miller, Charles W. Murphy, John
E. Murphy, William H. Myers, John Ober, Thomas Oliver, Levi M.
Overman, Ernest Phillips, James Ripley, John Schnider, Charles
Schraufer, Martin L. Scott, George D. Simpson, Andrew J. Skinner,
Samuel B. Smith, James IM. Stapleton, Samuel Streets, Henry Stultz,
Charles D. Sullivan, Tipton Tait, Franz Taraska, David A. Taylor,
George W. Wagner, Newton M. Ward, He;iry C. Webb, Daniel Weddell,
Noah S. Weddell, Michael Weldt, Lewis M. West, Frederick Wigle,
Isaac Willitt, Thomas Wilson, John Woods, William Wright, Fred-
erick Zehe.
Arduous ser\'iee decimated the ranks of the company until it became
necessary to add almost as many recruits as there were names upon
the original muster roll. The recruits added at various times were
as follows : William A. Akers, Henry Baker, Sidney Barton, William
Bassett, Aaron Bunnell, John Burr, William Chapman, Abraham
Charles, Alfred Clendenin, Luther F. Clifford, Madison Cox, Elijah
Curry, Abel Davenport, Theodore Ellis, George L. Evans, Albert G.
Gunckel, William Hiser, Martin Holt, Albert Hoover. William Huff-
man, Thomas Hughes, Nelson Hunter, Joseph Hurst, William Ingram,
Conrad Leatherman, Beam Lockman, Jacob ]\Iartin, James A. Martin,
Edward Maxwell, Samuel B. ]\IcDonald, Ransom McKibbin, Jason S.
McMullen, William E. Menifee, Michael Miller, Ransom P. ]Moler, Jor-
dan Ooten, John Osbom, Isaac N. Proctor, John Quillian, Alexander
Reynolds, Samuel Ritter, Noah Roach, John B. Rucker, John C. Scrog-
gins, John Shawhan, John Shea, Elias Shook, Thomas J. Smith. Charles
J. Stewart, David Stewart, Joseph Stephens, Andrew J. Summa, Elijah
Sutphin, Joseph A. Swope. There were also a few Madison county
recruits that were unassigned to any company.
HISTORY OF MAUISON COUNTY 291
On July 1, 1861, the regiment left Indianapolis for Virginia. It
was part of General Reynolds' command at the battle of Greenbrier and
in November was ordered to join General Buell at Louisville, Kentucky.
For a while it was in Nelson's division, but in February, 1862, was
assigned to General Wood's division, with which it marched to Pitts-
burg Landing, but being in the rear did not reach the field of Shiloh
until after the battle was over. During the remainder of the year 1862
it was on duty in Tennessee, ^lississippi and Alabama and was fre-
quently engaged with the enemy. On February 12, 1862, Colonel
Wilder received ordei's to mount his regiment by "confiscating horses
belonging to the inhabitants of the country," and from that time until
April 1, 1863, the men were engaged in expeditions to secure horses,
acquiring great skill in finding horses that had been concealed. After
being mounted the Seventeenth was constantly employed on scouting
expeditious and in May the men were armed with Spencer rifles. At
Hoover's Gap, Colonel "Wilder, without waiting for orders, attacked
the enemy, and though outnumbered five to one held his position until
reinforced, when the Confederates were driven from their position.
After the battle of Chickamauga, in which the regiment took part,
it remained in the vicinity of Chattanooga until the last day of Novem-
ber, when Wilder was ordered to the relief of General Burnside at
Knoxville. There it charged through the enemy's lines that surrounded
the Union troops. In Januarj-, 1864, the regiment became a veteran
organization by reenlistment and after the veteran furlough joined
General Sherman for the Atlanta campaign. It formed part of General
Wilson's command in the famous raid through Alabama and Georgia in
the early part of 1865. From I\Iay 22d to August 8, 1865, it was on
post duty at iMacon, Georgia, and on the latter date was mustered out
of service. The men reached Indianapolis on the 16th of August and
Avere there finally discharged.
Nineteenth Infantry
Company A of this regiment was organized in Anderson by Capt.
Isaac M. May. A number of the men came from Delaware county and
for some reason not plain the company is credited to that county in
the adjutant-general's report. The complete muster roll of the com-
pany at the time of muster-in was as follows :
Isaac M. May, captain ; James L. Kilgore, first lieutenant ; Alonzo
I. Jlakepeace, second lieutenant; Charles T. DOxey, first sergeant (pro-
moted to second lieutenant of Company I) ; Charles H. Davis, Julius
Voit. Oliver C. Davis. Adam Gisse, sergeants; Jonathan Tower, James
I\I. ]\Iitchell, Tilman A. Snelson, Asahel Burris, George W. Curleaux,
(leorge W\ Gibson, Charles E. Watkins and George W. Dove, corporals;
Thomas C. O'Neal and Oscar W. Ray, musicians: Bryant Taylor, wag-
oner. Captain ]\Ia.v was promoted to major and Lieutenant Makepeace
became captain, Lieutenant Kilgore having resigned soon after the regi-
ment was mustered in. Sergeants Voit and Gisse each served as second
lieutenant of the company at some period of its service and Sergeant
Oliver C. Davis was made second lieutenant of Companj' K, Sixteenth
292 HISTORY OF MADISON COL'XTV
Infantry. Major May Post, Grand Army of the Republic, at Anderson,
is named in honor of the first captain of this company.
Privates — William H. Abbott, Isaac Adams, Daniel Adams, Charles
A. Anderson, John Andis, Jesse 0. Banyon, George Banner, Ephraim
Bartholomew, Edmund F. Bevelheimer, George Bevelheimer, John B.
Blake, Hiram Brady, John A. Brown, Elisha Burris, Jacob Burris, John
P. Burke, Henry Carr, Henry D. Comer, George W. Conger, Josiah
Cruise, Christopher C. Crummel, John Dyer, George Elliott, Matthew
Elliott, David Ellison, Caleb Francis, George Garrison, James Gates,
Lewis Gauguin, Andrew L. Gibson, Elkanah M. Gibson, John Gilmore,
Morris Gilmore, Thomas Hackett, George Hall, Lewis Harris, George
Harberstrop, John Hawk, George P. Helvie, Samuel Hensley, John C.
Hiatt, Henry Hume, Andrew J. Johnson, George Johnson, Thomas
Jones, Gideon Kennedy, John A. Kindle, Andrew Laibley, Caleb Lamb,
Bradley Landrey, Thomas Loller, Patrick Lynch, John McCollin, Chris-
topher McGregor, James McGinnis, Sleasman Meeker, William H. H.
Miller, James L. Mitchell, William Morgan, William Newton, Peter
Nimrick, Michael O'Rourke, Alvarion Osborne, Eli Pearsoll, Dominick
Pickell, Peter Poor, Stephen D. Pugett. William Rigsby, Augustus
H. Rohrer, Albert Six, Barney Six, Henry Smith, Thomas A. Smith,
Peter Spangler, James N. Stewart, Jesse W. Stitley, John H. Surber,
George Terwilliger, John Udri, Peter Worth, Charles Wykoff, Jacob M.
Wysong and John C. Young.
Subsequently the following recruits from Madison county were added
to the company: James M. Abbott, Enoch Adams, Stephen Adams,
Jacob Bolen, Araasa H. Brown, Clinton A. Burke, Simeon J. Clem,
Levi Dove, Henry Duross, Ephraim B. Eager, Thomas Fletcher, Daniel
Hoppis, Zenas M. Kinnaman, William A. Kendall, James Leamy, John
McGregor, Elias Modlin, Archy H. Peak, Jesse Parson, Seth C. Peden,
John Pitman, Nathaniel Rigsby, Joseph D. Smith, John D. Titherington
and John J. Tucker.
Several members of the regimental band were from Madison county.
Those known to have been from this county were James L. Bell, William
Cole, Oliver and Volney B. Irish, John Pyle, John W. Beem, Samuel D.
Vanpelt and Byron Scribner. In addition to the members of the band
and Compaxiy A the following recruits from the county were added
to Company E : Bartley A. Bose, William J. Branson, John P. Helvie,
William Helvie, Jasper Hoppis, James Love, Oliver Love, John W.
Modlin and David Turner.
The Nineteenth was, mustered into service at Indianapoljs on July
29, 1861, with Solomon Meredith as colonel. Eleven daj's later it joined
the Army of the Potomac at Washington and from that time until
mustered out it was almost constantly on the firing line, being a part
of the famous "Iron Brigade." Among the engagements in which it
participated were Gainesville, Manassas Junction, South Mountain, An-
tietam, FredericksbTirg, Gettysburg, the various actions of the ^lino
Run compaign, and most of the battles of the campaign from the Rapi-
dan to the James in 1864. Major May was killed at the battle of Gaines-
ville, AiTgust 28, 1862, where the regiment lost one hundred and eighty-
seven in killed and wounded, and his body was never recovered, though
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY ' 293
his widow aiui frit'iuls made diligent search for his remains. The two
soldiers who buried him were l)oth killed and no trace of his last resting
place was left. Captain ilakepeaee eonimanded Company A at Gettys-
burg, where he was captured. He was contined tirst at Libby prison
and later at Salisbury, North Carolina. Twice he succeeded in making
his escape from prison, but each time was recaptured. He is now a
resident of Anderson. On July 28, 1864, those of the Nineteenth whose
time had expired were mustered out anVl the three hundred and three
veterans and recruits were consolidated with the Twentieth Infantry,
which was mustered out on July 12, 1865.
Thirtt-fourth Infantry
Madison county was well represented in tliis regiment, which was
organized at Camp Stilwell, Anderson, where it was mustered in on
September 16, 1861, for three years, with Asbury Steele as colonel.
Among the regimental officers were the following Madison county men :
Townsend R.yan, lieutenant-colonel (afterward surgeon of the Fifty-
fourth Indiana infantry); John W. Ryan, adjutant; Thomas N. Stil-
well, quartermaster; Francis A. Griswold, chaplain; Simeon B. Harri-
man, assistant surgeon ; Benjamin B. Campbell, quartermaster sergeant,
promoted quartermaster and captain of Company H ; Nineveh Berry,
commissary sergeant ; James M. Berry, hospital steward.
The regimental band was also composed of Madison and Grant
countj' musicians, viz. : George W. Aumach, William J. Bourk, Christian
S., Clinton M., and Reuben H. Burley, Eli A. Collins, George B. Ed-
monds. Charles P. Hedrick, Edwin C. Hun-y, Allen Ja(|ua, Charles A.
Jones, James G. I\lcllhenny, Horace B. and Samuel D. RIakepeace, Har-
vey S. iMarks, Charles B. Northrop, Franklin H. Pilcher, Silas A. Pulse,
Henry Reid, John J. Shalfer, Elijah D. R. Stout, Albert Thomas and
James C. Wood, all of whom were mustered out on August 21, 1862, by
order of the war department.
In Company C the following privates came from iladison county:
Jonathan D. Ayers, John F. Beecher, Charles Compton, John H. Groves,
Isaac H. Hamilton, Francis B. Howe, Thomas Kelsey, James Kline,
Alanson Palmer, William II. Sale, John M. Smith. The recruits added
to this company later were David Divilbiss, George W. Fox and Nathan
W. Rogers.
Company D was a Madison county company, with the exception of
a few men. Of this company Jonathan Jones, of Alexandria, was cap-
tain ; Samuel Henry, of Pendleton, first lieutenant ; Columbus W. Moore,
of Summit\'ille. first sergeant ; Joshua L. Fussell, Orin L. Walker and
Joseph ^r. Irwin, sergeants: p]noch E. McMahon, Isaac P. Jones, Francis
A. Tomlinson and David K. Carver, corporals.
Privates — John Adams, Benjamin F. Allen, Jona. P. Allen, James
Archer. Andrew J. Barricks, Ephraim Clark, William A. Craven, James
M. Cunningham, John D. Ellis, John R. Gambriel, Jacob Gipe, John W.
Goul, George H. Henderson. Robert Jackson, Samuel Jackson, Elias
James, William L. Johnson, ^lorris H. Jones, John W. Kinnaman, Wes-
ley Kitchen, John W. Lewark, Byram Love, John W. JIcMuUen,
294 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Ambrose Manning, David M. Moore, James A. Noble, John L. Pickard,
Joseph G. Pickard, Nathaniel W. Pickard, George Poore, John H. Poore,
Joseph Poore, Nathan Prather, John A. Reid, John Reeves, Benjamin F.
Rogers, Joseph Rumler, Allison J. Ryan, Thomas Ryan, John R. Sexton,
Elijah Stover, Charles S. Suffield, William R. Teague, Levi Thompson,
Theodore S. Walker, Nicholas Whal^n.
Recruits— Thomas P. Ballard, Thomas M. Bell, George W. Biddle,
Godfrey Bohrer, Edward Christopher, George W. Cartwright, Josiah
Cartwright, Andrew J. Cassell, John P. Condo, William B. Davis,
^quilla Day, Andrew J. Flemming, John Griffee, Oliver Griffee, William
A. Hughs, Augustine King, Daniel F. Lee, Hillary W. G. Lee, Ezekiel
Manning, Boze Murphy, John Norris, William Norris, Lewis M. Painter,
Benjamin F. Piper, James E. Price, Robert Pugh, James H. Ricketson,
Byron Scribner, Enoch Sexton, Mark A. Starr, James Windsor, Daniel
Windsor and William Young.
The greater part of Company E, Thirty-fourth Infantry, was re-
cruited in the western tier of Madison county townships. Francis M.
Hunter, of Duck Creek township, was commissioned captain ; Hiram G.
Fisher, of Fishersburg, first lieutenant ; Francis M. Boyden, of Perkins-
ville, second lieutenant. The sergeants of the company -were John E.
Markle (promoted to captain of Company K), Charles Blake and
William H. H. Quick. The corporals were Warren Cole, Robert S.
Benefiel, Sanford W. Newland, John W. Foland, Daniel F. Ham, Ben-
jamin F. Wise, John W. Brattain and John H. Moore. William E.
Kurtz and John W. Newland enlisted as musicians.
Privates— William Abney, Andrew Anderson, Charles Apgar, George
W. Baxter, James M. Beck, Isham Benefiel, Benjamin A. Bereman, David
F. Boyden, Jonathan Brattain, William R. Brown, Yardman Brown,
George W. Bums, Jackson Cartey, George W. Cochran, William Con-
rad, Thomas K. Cox. Barnette Dewitt, Edward Doty, Addison Dwig-
gins, William Dwiggins, Stephen C. Falconburg, Isaac P. Foland,
W^illiam L. R. Garner, Enos Gross, Jacob Gross, Harvey Gross, Harvey
Gwinu, John C. Gwiun, Franklin Hanley, John A. Harman, George
W. Hosier, Milligan Hosier, Benjamin Huffman, George Huffman, Jas-
per Huffman, William Jerrell, Robert M. Kidwell, Thomas B. Legg,
Samuel Lee, John T. McConneha, John W. IMaguire, Oliver F. Martin,
Joseph Miller, William N. Miller, William Mills, Jabez E. Miner, Wil-
liam Moore, William P. Moulder, Robert A. Niekum, Jefferson Olvey,
James H. Patterson, Elijah W. Piersol, Leonard F. Reddick, Lewis F.
Reader, William Richwine, Jesse Schuyler, Isaac Sears, John Shaw,
Thomas Shaw, William A. Sheward, Jeremiah Simpson, Harvey Sloan,
Calvin W. Studley, Datus E. Studley, William Stokes, Joseph Waymire,
John Webb, Benjamin F. Wise (promoted corporal), Andrew D.
Wood, David Woodyard, William Young.
Recruits — John Buay, Samuel M. Beck, Jonathan Brattain, Isaac
Brokaw, James Brown, George W. Foland, Francis Hosier, Joseph
Holfier, Samuel B. Larue, Joseph Lee, Joseph Simpson, William Shaw,
Daniel E. Valentine, Wilson Weddington, Joel Zeak. Eight men served
as privates in Company F, viz. : C. D. Boone, John P. Davis, Charles
Guinnup, Abram Hatfield, Jacob Maj's, William Stanley, John Thomp-
son and Daniel B. Williams.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 295
On October 16, 1861, the Thirty-fourth left Anderson for Louisville,
Kentucky, where it remained in Camp Wickliffe until February 14,
1862, when it received orders to reinforce General Grant, who was
then engaged in the reduction of Fort Donelson. The fort surrendered
before the regiment reached tliere and it was ordered to Cairo, Illinois,
where it joined the expedition against New Madrid, Missouri. In that
movement it plaj'ed a conspicuous part, then assisted in the capture of
Fort Pillow, was then in Arkansas until April. 1863, when it joined
General Grant for the campaign against Vicksburg. It was in action
at Port Gibson, Champion's Hill, during the siege of Vicksburg, at Jack-
son, Jlississippi, and after the fall of Vicksburg was ordered to Louisi-
ana. To this regiment belongs the honor of having taken part in the
last battle of the Civil war— at Palmetto Ranche, Texas, May 13, 1865.
This action occurred not far from the old battlefield of Palo Alto. The
union troops were attacked by a superior force of the enemy, armed
with artillery, and forced to fall back toward Brownsville. Companies
B and E of the Thirty-fourth Indiana covered the retreat and were cut
off from the main body and captured. In the engagement the regiment
lost eighty-two men in killed, wounded and prisoners. John J. Williams,
usuallj' referred to by his comrades as "Jeff" Williams, a private of
Company B, wlio enlisted from Ja^' county, was killed at Palmetto
Ranche and is said to have been the last man killed in battle in the
Civil war. His portrait hangs in the hall of Major ]\Iay Post, G. A. R.,
at Anderson and is pointed out to visitors by membere of the regiment.
The Thirty-fourth was one of the very last of the volunteer regirnenta
to be mustered out, which was done at Brownsville, Texas, February 3,
1866, and fifteen days later the men received their final pay and dis-
charge at Indianapolis.
In this regiment Elmer B. Warner was captain of Company I for
awhile, and James McDerman, Enos Miller and Daniel F. Mustard
served a.*: privates in the same company.
Forty-seventh Infantry
This regiment was partially formed at Camp Stilwell, Anderson, but
the organization was completed at Indianapolis, where the regiment
was mustered in by companies from December 9 to 13, 1861. James
R. Slack, of Huntington, was commissioned colonel ; Milton S. Robin-
son, lieutenant-colonel; George Nichol, quartermaster; Peter H. Lemon,
commissary sergeant. The last three of the above named officers were
from ]\Iadison county.
Company G was recruited in Madison county and was mustered in
with John T. Robin.son as captain ; John F. Eglin, first lieutenant ; Wil-
liam R. Myers, second lieutenant (both lieutenants were promoted to
captain through changes in the official roster of the company) ; Mc-
Clure H. Bryant, Henry Vinyard (promoted first lieutenant), Joseph
McMullen. sergeants; Jacob E. Waymire, ]\Iathlas Snelson, David E.
Clem, John M. Caster and Frederick Rent, corjjorals; John M. Hankey
and Harrison Jackson, musicians; John Wyman, wagoner.
296 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Privates — Samuel Anderson, Daniel Ashby, William S. Beard,
Johnson Benetiel, Hugh Berryman, Willett E. Bird, William AV. Bod-
kins, William Brown, Moses Cannon, Thomas Cannon, William Carroll,
Sylvester Clary, Andrew Cloud, Abraham Cook, John P. Cornelius,
Peter Costello, Doctor B. Davis, jMarion Davis, Meredith Davis,
Nathaniel Davis, Bartholomew Ellis, Edmund Ferris, William Hard-
castle, Jacob Harris, Arch A. Hattill, Joseph Hensley, Henry Hinckle,
Reuben Hodgson, Isaac Holloway, Doi-sey jM. Hour, William Ingram,
Owen Jan-ett, Albert Jay, John Keller, John H. Lee, Hugh C. Lust,
James B. Mabbitt, William A. Maynard, John Miller, Justice Morse,
Michael Odam, Joseph Phillips, William H. H. Phillips, John Prilli-
man, Wilson Ralph, George W. Reeder, George W. Riley, Martin Sines,
George A. Smith, Oliver Smith, Andrew Stanley, David T. Suffield,
Jacob Trump, J. Watkins, William H. Watkins, John Whitaker, Wil-
liam E. White, Joseph Wier, George W. Williamson, Jeffei-son William-
son. Four recruits were added to the company later, viz : Adam Per-
kins, Orange L. Shaw, Amos Stanley and William Trombla.
In Company H George Sloan held the rank of sergeant and the fol-
lowing Madison county boys were mustered in as privates : Moses Chap-
man, Albert A. Manning, William Z. Manning, Jonathan Nave, William
Sailer, Albert Sloan, Milton Sloan. The recruits added to this com-
pany were : Joseph Creviston, William H. Lain, John and Joseph Lit-
tle, Andrew J. and Francis M. Sale, George B. Strather, Sewell D.
Walker and James Wallace.
Peter Carey was promoted to the second lieutenancy of Company
K, and in the same company Presley E. Jackson held the rank of cor-
poral.
The Forty-seventh left Indianapolis on December 16, 1861, for Bards-
town, Kentucky, and it remained in that state until the following Feb-
ruary, when it was ordered to join General Pope at Commerce, Missouri,
for the movement against New Madrid and Island No. 10. Protn that
time to December, 1863, it was with the Thirty-fourth, an account of
v/hich regiment has been given. In December, 1863, the Forty-seventh
was assigned to the Department of the Gulf and formed part of General
Banks' army in the Red River campaign of 1864. In March, 1865, it
was ordered to Mobile to take part in the siege of that city and distin-
guished itself in the assault on Spanish Fort (April 8th), when that
stronghold surrendered. It was then sent back to Louisiana and re-
mained in that state until mustered out on October 23, 1865.
Seventy-fifth Inp.vntry
When this regiment was mustered into service on August 19, 1862,
John M. Petit was colonel, but in October his health became so impaired
that he was forced to resign and Milton S. Robinson, lieutenant-colonel
of the Forty-seventh, was commissioned to succeed him. Joseph F.
Johnston and Levi S. Sa.ylor, two Madison county boys, enlisted as
privates in Company E and the latter was killed at Chickamauga, Sep-
tember 19, 1863.
HISTORY OF IVLiDISON COUNTY 297
Compaxiy G of this regiment was recruited in Madison county and
was officered at the time of muster in as follows: Joseph T. Smith, cap-
tain; John B. Frazer, tirst lieutenant; William L. Philpott, second lieu-
tenant; William J. Hilligoss, George M. Overehiner, Joel W. McMahon,
John W. Channiess, sergeants; Royson T. Boyden, George H. Hilligoss,
Stephen iletcalf, Daniel H. Clymer, James Reeder, James E. Powell,
Luther C. Harman, corporals; Simpson Carpenter, wagoner.
Privates — Robert A. Bartlett, Edward O. Bowden, John A. Briggs,
Thomas Briggs, Andrew G. Burress, Solomon C. Call, Francis N. Child-
ers, Elman Clary, George W. Custer, Courtland Doau, Cyrus Dwiggins,
Jacob Eaker, Charles Everling, George 0. Everling, ilichael Gillespie,
John A. Haueker, Francis j\I. Helm, David E. Hillis, George Hillis,
Chauncey Hosier, Thomas H. D. Hosier, George Hulse, Clement Ingram,
Wiley Ingi-am, Martin Jackson, John R. Jarrett, Joseph W. Jarrett, Wil-
liam Johnson, John E. Keller, George Lawson, Henderson Lawson,
Elijah Lewark, Henry C. Lyst, Samuel Lyst, Thomas J. Lyst, John D.
McKee, Robert jMcKinney, James McMahan, Samuel S. McMahan, Wil-
liam W. McMahan, William Mather, James M. Miner, Lewis Moler, Ben-
jamin F. Mounts, Jackson Needham, John W. Nelson, James M. Over-
shiner, George W. O'Neal, Emanuel Owen, George W^. Owen, Thomas L.
Patterson, George T. Penniston, Chapman Perkins, Isaac H. Perkins,
James R. Perry, Jacob Petei"s, Silas G. Piper, George W. Rains, G. W.
Riley, John Robbins, Albert J. Ross, John Simmons, John Simpson, Noah
Sloan, Wright Smith, James Snedeker, William Snow, John Stan, Asel
Stansberry, Jesse W. Stillej-, David T. Thompson, Grisby Tracy, John
W. Tranbarger, David W^aymire, Washington Waymire. John U. Wilson.
In Company I, Joseph Gwin enlisted as corporal and was promoted to
first lieutenant ; John Abner was the company wagoner, and the follow-
ing privates enlisted from Madison county : Samuel Bach, Artemus Bid-
die, Joseph Brittinham, Thomas W. Eaton, Moses Good, Elisha Hollo-
way, Jesse Holloway, Abram R. Lilley, Henry P. Michael, Elijah Morse,
John W. Non-is, Charles Rowles, Jonas 0. Smithers, Elias Summers,
Frederick Swigert, Jesriel W^een, Wesley S. White, Hiram Wykoff.
The early service of the Seventy-fifth was in Kentucky and Tennessee.
On January 5, 1863, it marched to Murfreesboro, where it was assigned
to Reynolds' division of the Fourteenth army corps, and in June follow-
ing was an active factor in the TuUahoma campaign. It was then en-
gaged in the various maneuvers preceding the great battle of Chicka-
mauga, where it lost ninety-eight in killed and wounded in the first day's
fighting and in the second day's fighting it lost fifty-three. In Novem-
ber following it was engaged in the "charge without orders" upon the
Confederate position on Missionary Ridge, and the next day pursued the
retreating enemy to Ringgold, Georgia. It was engaged in nearly all
the principal engagements of the Atlanta campaign in 1864, and was
one of the regiments that followed Sherman in the celebrated march to
the sea. Then followed the campaign through the Carolinas, the sur-
render of General Joseph E. Johnston, the march to Washington, via
Richmond, and the grand review. The regiment was mustered out at
Washington on June 8, 1865, except a few veterans and recruits, whose
298 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
time had not expired, and these were consolidated with the Forty-see-
ond Indiana Infantry, which was mustered out at Louisville, Kentucky,
July 21, 1865.
Eighty-ninth Infantry
Company B of this regiment was recruited in Madison county and
when rriustered into the United States service at Indianapolis on August
28, 1862, was officered as follows : Saniuel Henry, captain ; Elijah Wil-
liams, firet lieutenant ; Jonathan W. Zeublin, second lieutenant ; Andrew
J. Scott, Moses D. Gage, Benjamin F. Bowsman, Preston L. Brown, ser-
geants ; George 11. Brown, George AV. AVaitnian, Amos J. Davis, Wil-
liam English, George Rinewalt, Joseph M. Rogers, James H. Smither
and William J. iluUen, coi-porals; William II. Bolinger and William H.
Pardue, musicians; Davis Daily, wagoner.
Privates — John W. H. Alden, George R. Anderson, Thomas Ander-
son, Robert Baily, John A. Baker, Philip Baker, William Baughman,
William B. Beach, William J. Beard, Philip Becker, Jacob Bogart, Allen
Bond, Edmund Brown, William G. Bi-own, Charles A. Bunker. Rollin
S. Carroll, Samuel Castle, Lawrence Craven, Samuel W. Craven, Andrew
Crossley, Henry Crossley, Jacob Delawter, John E. Delawter, Charles
R. Eastman, W. AV. Ellsworth, Robert Galbraith, Jacob Given, John AV.
Goul, Thomas L. Grass. Leonidas Helvie, George W. Ifert, A'irgil P.
Irish, Francis M. Jackson, George Jackson, Stephen J. Jackson, Thomas
B. Jackson, Davis James. Andrew J. Jarrett, James W. Jarrett, Davis
Jones, Tillman H. Kellum, John Kesler, Elijah E. Koons, AVilliam D. F.
Lane, Elyphus LefSngwell, Orange Lemon, Charles H. McCarthy, Madi-
son Mingle, William S. Mingle, John ^Morris, Thomas H. B. Norris,
Samuel Pavey, William H. Prater, James AI. Price, Henry Schuyler,
John A. Sears, Jefferson Seybert, James II. Seybert, Lorenzo D. Sey-
bert. Newel B. Shaul, Richard A. Shaul, James M. Small, John A.
Smithers, AA^'illiam H. Snell, Sr., AVilliam H. Snell, Jr., Christian Snyder,
Addison W. Stephenson, William H. Stouder, Jonathan P. Swope, Wil-
liam H. Taylor, Gustavus A. Tilson, Samuel Todd, John Welty, John
Whiteeotton, Oliver Whitecotton, Allen W. Williams, Thomas W. A.
Wilson, Frank AVright. Fountain B. Wylie, Harvey H. Wylie, Madison
A. Wylie. Thoma.s G. AVylie.
Recruits — Elmore B. Crump, .John Ebert, Andrew Fifer, Jehiel T.
Harder. William Ifert, William F. Jarrett, Paul C. Jones, Philip G.
Jones, George A. Nicholson, John A. Reed and Simon C. Thomas.
Immediately upon lieing mustered in, the regiment left Indianapolis
under command of Colonel Charles D. Murray, with Judge Hei^^'ey
Craven, of Pendleton, as lieutenant-colonel. Captain Henry, of Com-
pany B, was promoted to maj6r and Lieutenant W^illiams was made
captain. After a short stay at Louisville the Eighty-ninth was assigned
to Colonel Wilder 's command, which was engaged in guarding the
Green river bridge on the Louisville & Nashville railroad. On Septem-
ber 14, 1862, the regiment received its bapti.sm of fire in the battle of
Munfordsville. Two days later the enemy made another attack on the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 299
garrison and the regiment lost two killed and several wounded. On
that day the gan-ison surrendered to a vastly superior force and the
men were paroled. Upon being exchanged they assembled at Indian-
apolis on October 27, 1862, and moved at once to ilemphis, Tennessee,
where the regiment remained on duty until in January, 1864. It was
with General Sherman on the Meridian expedition, after which it was
ordered to Louisiana, as part of General A. J. Smith's command, and
remained in that state, being freciuently engaged with the enemy, until
ordered to Vicksburg in May. From that time to February, 1865, the
regiment was in numerous battles and skirmishes in Mississippi, Mis-
souri and Tennessee, ilajor Henry was killed by guerrillas near Green-
ton, Missouri, November 1, 1864. In I\lareh, 1865, it was ordered -to
Mobile and there assisted in the capture of Spanish Fort. It was then
on duty at Montgomery and Mobile until July 19, 1865, when it was
mustered out and the men returned to their homes.
One Hundred and First Infantry
Upon the muster rolls of this regiment the name of John Hendren
appears as a recruit in Company C. In Company D were Elmore T.
Montgomery, first sergeant; Thomas Shannon, corporal, and the follow-
ing privates: Andrew J. Applegatc, David L. Boyden, Wilson P. Car-
penter, Jonathan Corey, Spencer Dewitt, John W. Etsler, Elias Foland,
Joseph Foland, Thomas Foland, Martin Griffith, Albert Hadley, John
Hollingsworth, John R. House, Alexander McClintock, John Miller, Silas
Pearsol, Smith D. Shannon, George D. Sheets, Jolm Showan, Sebron
Wheeler.
Company E was raised in Madison county. The official roster of this
company at the time it was mustered into service was as follows: Josiah
Sparks,"captain; Frederick Cartwright, finst lieutenant; David Richart,
second lieutenant: Joseph F. Lenfesty, first sergeant; John C. Mont-
gomery, George W. Lowthen, Jonathan T. Taylor, John W. Smithurst,
James E. Cook, William ]Moore, corporals; Wylie Bird and Thomas W.
Cook, musicians. •
Privates — John S. Barton, Joshua Barton, William N. Barton, Isaac
Bayles, Joel W. Bicknell, Benjamin Black, John M. Black, William
Blymer, Richard H. Brotliers, Elijah L. Brown, James C. Browni, Wil-
liam M. Brown, Jesse JI. Cook, Solomon Creek, Andrew Davis, Cliarles
Davis, Enoch Davis, Lewis Dean, Calvin Dobson, Isaac Ellison. Henry
Fenimore, John II. Fuller, William B. Fuller, AVilliam H. H. Gipe,
Oliver Griffey, David Harris. William Helm, Andrew C. Himiller,
Ephraim Howell, Rolla F. Howell, James Hughes, Thomas Hughes,
Thomas James, William Laird, Peter Lavin, William E. McDaniel,
Thomas J. Me:\Iullen, Andrew J. Mann, John :Mann, Richard J. Man-
ning, Solomon T. Montgomery. Rufus Otiinger, George W. Perry,
Andei-son Powei-s, Cliarles L. Powers, William ]\I. Price, Samuel Prit-
chard, f^rancis I\I. Sloan, Jacob Smith, John J. Smith, Elijah Stanley,
Josiah Stanley, George W. Timmons, John Yost, William A. Zeak.
In Company G of this regiment Lafayette ^Messier enlisted as a
300 HISTORY OF MADISON COIXTV
sergeant and was promoted to first lieutenant, and the following Madi-
son county boys served as privates: William Holloway, Robert F.
Lynch, James iliUer, Israel Messier, John W. Nedrow, Isaac Price,
Chai-les Sloan and Joseph Whitwright.
This regiment was recruited at Wabash and was mustered in on
September 7, 1862, with William Garver as colonel. Its first service
was in Kentucky, repelling the invasion of General Kirby Smith, after
which it was assigned to the duty of guarding the Green river bridge on
the Louisville & Xasliville Railroad until December, 1862, when it was
sent in pursuit of General Morgan, who was then raiding Kentucky.
In January, 1863, it was assigned to the same brigade and division in
the Fourteenth Army Corps as the Seventy-fifth Indiana Infantry, and
its subsequent historj' is identical with that of the Seventy -fifth. It was
mustei'ed out at Louisville, Kentucky, June 19, 1865.
One Hundred and Fifth Infantry
A considerable portion of Company H in this regiment came from
Madison county. Nicholas Anderson, Jonathan Brattan, Godfrey Ilass,
O. B. Shaul and Daniel Valentine held the rank of sergeant ; Jesse
Smithers and Alfred Valentine were corporals ; William Wendle was one
of the company musicians, and the following served as privates: Theo-
dore Baker, Newton M. Baldwin, Joseph Bock, Anderson Bolinger,
Elijah Bolinger, Henry BoUnger, Andrew Brattan, Samuel Brattan,
William Brovra, Alexander Burditt, William Everett, John Ford, John
Hedrick. James Kerr, John ^McClese, Henry Elaine, Martin Otlinger,
Wilber Shaul, Eli Smithers, George Smithei-s, Henry Smithers, James
Smithers, William Smithers, R. L. Snider, Abraham Swigert, Frederick
Swigert, Samuel Taylor, Eli Thomas, James Valentine, John Valentine,
Maberrj' W^elchel, Wesley W'hite and Burwell Williamson. Dennis
McCarty served in Company B, ajid John II. McCoy and John Maler
in Company K.
This regiment was one of those known as "Minute Men," and was in
sei-vice only a short time during the jMorgan raid in the sununer of
1863. It was commanded by Colonel Kline G. Shryock. In the One
Hundred and Tenth, also an organization of "Minute ilen," there were
three companies from IMadison county, viz. : Company C, Benjamin
Sebrell, captain; Ephraim B. Doll, first lieutenant; Josiah Sparks,
second lieutenant. Company G, Warrington B. Roberts, captain ; John
W. Obrist, first lieutenant; H. B. Makepeace, second lieutenant. Com-
pany I, Isaac P. Rinewalt, captain ; Voluey B. Irisli, first lieutenant ;
J. Reese Rinewalt, second lieutenant. In the absence of the muster
rolls it is impossible to give a complete list of the men. The service
of the regiment was the same as that of the One Hmidred and Fifth,
and it was commanded by Colonel Graham N. Fitch.
One Hundred and Thirtieth Infantry
This regiment was organized at Kokomo and was mustered into
service on March 12, 1864, with Charles S. Parrish as colonel. Dr.
HISTORY OF MADISON COrXTV 801
Thomas X. Jones, of Anderson, was appointed surgeon, and Dr. Braxton
Baker, also a Madison county physician, assistant surgeon. Company
B was recruited in iladison county. Its official roster at the time of
muster in was as follows: Ephraini B. Doll, captain; William H.
Mayes, fii-st lieutenant; John ;\1. Hunt, second lieutenant; William D.
Noble, first sergeant; William P. Watkins, sergeant; James E. Noble,
Lewis Hubbard, John Kesling, John S. Sellers, Lewis C. Maye, Labin
Tunis, Francis M. Lewark, corporals; David Harris and John A.
Moore, nmsiciaus.
Privates — Corbin Adams, Isaac Adams, ]\Ioses Adams, Albert Arm-
strong, Joseph Atwell, Eli Baldwin, Ne\\i:on M. Baldwin, Gilbert Bel-
ville, Spencer G. Bevelheimcr, William Black, Samuel Bowei-s, Ezra
Bradrick, Abner Brothers, Alfred Brown, Joseph Clark, Elias Creamer,
Joseph Davidson, John Dyer, William H. Earls, Jacob P. Ellis, W^esley
Ellsworth, James England, James F. England, James Fifer, George
Gaddis, James P. Garrett, Sylvester George, Allen Gustin, Samuel
Gustiu, Stephen S. Hall, Samuel Harpold, George Jenkins, Gabriel
Little, Dennis McCarty, Esta A. Makepeace, Francis M. G. Melton,
William iloler, John 0 'Bryant, Thomas II. O'Neal, William R. Parish,
John Paul, Ezra Pickering, Jacob M. Plow, Henry Rains, William D.
Rains, David Ranck, Charles A. Rausch, Jacob Rector, James Roach,
George D. Samuels, Levi Sanders, Stephen N. Sargeant, James Shay,
Charles II. Smith, Lero.y Smith, Levi Smith, John D. Smithson, Judah
B. Smithson, James Sneed, George Sullivan, Henry H. Thompson, John
Tokley, Lewis D. Tucker, John Tomlinson, Elijah lyra, Philip Vaiide-
vender, Dempsey Wagg\', William Waggy, Perry Watkins, William
Webb, Isaac Wood, Joshua Wood.
Samuel Jones was a corporal in Company H and Dr. Braxton Baker,
who was promoted to assistant surgeon, was first enrolled as a private
in that company. The gi-eater part of Company K was recruited in
Madison county. In the latter company William M. O'Banion and John
Starr were sergeants; Jlilton Crowell, George W. Newhouse and Henry
King, corporals; R. K. Cunningham, musician; and the following wera
Privates — Enos Baker, John S. Barton, Joshua Barton, Orville P.
Baydan, Isaac T. Bird, Robert W. Bird, George W. Black, Daniel P.
Buck, Frederick Cartwright (i)romoted to fir.st lieutenant), Owen D.
Colvin, John W. Creamer, William Creamer, William T. Cunningham,
Horton J. Dobson, William H. J. Fleener, Henry Gardner, John C.
George, George Godwin, Sylvanus Gordon, Elbert Harrison, David A.
Hendrix. Davidson L. Ilendrix, Wesley B. Ilollingsworth, Leonard
Ingram. Franklin Johnson, i\Iiltoii Johnson. Lemon Jones, Spicer Jones,
John H. Kearns. Eli D. Kelly. William J. Kelly, Thomas Kendal, James
C. King, Peter Z. T. Lane. Quinton Laydon. William B. Linder, John
Lindley. Caleb ^McCoy, John II. McCoy, William JIathes, James .Miller,
John ^loler, Stephen Nnrman, John Powell, Philip Raeder, James T.
Rav. Lewis Rix, William Sinclair. Asburv C. Starr, Lewis Taylor, Alvah
II. Vickey. Philip Waggy, John T. Wells. George H. Widner, Z. T.
Williamson. Miles F. Wood. Daniel D. Word, Zenas J. Wright.
For the fii'st six weeks of its service, the One Hundred and Thirtieth
was on duty in Tennessee, but on ^lay 3, 1864. it joined General Sher-
302 HISTORY OF MADISON COIXTY
mail's army for the Atlanta c-ampaigii. It wa.s engaged at Rocky
Face Ridge, Resaca, Lost ^Mountain, Kciiesaw Mountain, IVachtree Creek,
the battle of July 22, 1864, and after the surrender of that city the
regiment, forming part of tiie Twenty-third corps, came back to Nash-
ville, where it was engaged with the Confederate Army under Oenera!
Hood on December Ifi-IG, 1864. Early in 1865 orders were received
to move to Washington, D. C, whence it was sent to North Carolina,
and it was present at the surrender of General Joseph E. Johnston.
From April to December, 1865, it was on guard at Charlotte, North
Carolina. It left that place on December 2, 1865, and on the 13th
reached Indianapolis, where the men received their final paj' and dis-
charge.
In connection with the organization of this regiment, a pleasant little
incident occurred while it was in camp at Kokomo. Colonel Thomas
N. Stilwell, of Anderson, had been very busy during the earlier years
of the war in raising troops, and was an important factor in the organi-
zation of the One Hundred and Thirtieth. In his relations with the
men his conduct was such as to win their esteem and confidence, and
as a token of their regard the officers of the One Hundred and Thirtieth
and the One Hundred and Thirty-first "chipped in" and purchased a
$400 gold watch, which was presented to Colonel Stilwell. The pres-
entation speech was made by Captain Edgar Henderson, a former resi-
dent of Anderson, and was approjiiuately responded to by the recipient.
MiSCELL.iNEOUS INFANTRY REGIMENTS
In the foregoing pages only those regiments have been mentioned in
which Madison county furnished a whole, or a considerable part of a
company. There were a number of Madison county men scattered
through other infantry regiments, and as far as it has been possible
to obtain the names of these men, they are included in the following
list:
Thirteenth — Wallace Allen, Jeremiah Baxter, Jacob Beidler, Merritt
S. Bicknell, Nathan J. Blowers, Spencer H. Buck, John Carpenter,
James Cox, James M. Davis, Thomas iM. Donahoo (corporal), Daniel
Edw^ards, John R. Fitzgerald, Samuel Howard, Robert Hughes, Thomas
Hughes and Geoi-ge Pugh were all members of Company I, and William
Gos.sett was a musician in Company H.
Thirty-third — John Cassell, Joseph A. Davis, William A. Edsou and
John Hughes served as privates in Company E.
Fortieth — William H. Pyle was quartermaster of this regiment,
Frank Hardy was a private in Company A, and John S. and Thomas
Welsh ill Company l!.
Forty-second — On the muster rolls of Company I of this regiment
appear the names of Samuel Brattan, ^Martin L. Otlinger, Abraham
Swigert and James Valentine.
Fifty-seventh — Wesley W. Seward was a sergeant, Samuel Ham and
Dewitt C. iMarkle, corporals, and Jeremiah Gray, James Gilmore, George
W. Ham, Jacob Ham, William J. Ham, Joseph Huston, Thomas B.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 303
Seward and Jeremiah Sullivan were privates in Company F. This regi-
ment was sometimes called the Methodist regiment, because its first
colonel, John W. T. McMullen. and the lieutenant-colonel, Franklin A.
Hardin, were Ixith ^lethodist ministers, and a large number of the men
were members of that church. It served through the Atlanta campaign
and then returned to Nashville with General Thomas.
Fifty-eighth — In Company ¥j of this regiment were John Black,
Alfred Haskins, Jacob Smith, James Stephenson, William M. Price,
and Jashua W. Williamson ; and in Compan.y G were Robert F. Lynch,
Lsaac ilessler, James A. IMiller, John W. Nedrow, Isaac Price, Charles
Sloan and Joseph Whit right.
Fifty-ninth — Only two .Madison county men appear in this regi-
ment— Addison Conklin and William Haflick — both of whom were
recruits in Compaii.y F.
Sixty-ninth — In Company H Samuel Hardin and William H. Huston
were corporals and the following were privates: Josiah Blake, Carroll
C. Bronnenberg, William Bronnenberg, William C. Clark, William B.
Hankins, William N. Hankins and John Waggoner.
Eighty-fourth — In this regiment John Gensler, Samuel Lamar, Jolui
W. Shroyer and Granville ]\I. Walden were privates in Company D.
These men were transferred to the Veteran Resei'\'e Corps in September,
1863.
Ninety-ninth — Twelve Madison county men served as privates in
Company B of this regiment, viz. : Daniel Bolen, John M. Harlin,
Samuel H. Harlin, Edward P. Johnson, Jacob H. Julions, John G.
Keller, Logan H. Layne, Henry Mullen, Robert ]\Iullen, Christopher C.
Troy, Clark W. and James W. Wright. In Company H was Levi
Brewer, a veteran of the ]\Iexican war and a Madison count3' man,
but as he enlisted in Indianapolis he is credited to Marion county.
One Hundred and Thirty-fifth — This was one of the "One Hundred
Days'' regiments. In Company F were Elliott and Hiram Waymire,
who enlisted from Madison county.
One Hundred and Thirty-sixth — Company D of this regiment con-
tained fifteen men from Madison count.y, viz. : Henry Anderson, John
Anderson, Isaac Beaman, Thomas J. Boggs, Henry B. Cole, Spencer L.
Dewitt, Sebastian E. Douglas, John S. Houghan, Edward G. Huffman,
Jesse Schuyler, Michael Schuyler, Jesse Schrackengast, John W. Wise,
David B. Yale and George W. Young. The service of the regiment was
for one hundred days.
One Hundred and Fortieth — (one year's service). Christian H.
Runkle was a corporal in Company C and in the same company were
Privates William F. Baker, Elijah Beck, John L. Langley, James Payne,
Edwin D. Sweetzer, Lewis W. Thomas, Isaac B. Wood and Daniel M.
Zedeker. In Company H were Privates Elbert Cooper, Joseph W.
Franklin, Jolni Griffith, Joseph G. Gustin. Granville Pearson, Alfred
Pence, Peter Vanmeter.
One Hundred and Forty-second — John S. Neese was a corporal in
Company I, and in the same company John Anderson, Robert M. Brown,
David W. Hosier. Andrew J. MeClintock, Henn' Wise and Alexander
304 HISTORY OF MADISON COLWTV
Wise, privates. This regiment was recruited for the one year's service.
One Hundred and Forty-fourth — This was also a one-year regiment.
Upon its rolls appear but two Madison county men — John B. Blandford
and Henry Smith — both of whom were privates in Company K.
One Hundred and Forty-seventh — ^Madison county was better repre-
sented in this than in any other of the one-year regiments, a large
part of Company F having been recruited in the county. Of this
company George W. Dennis was tiret sergeant; Madison Watkins and
John F. Henrj-, sergeants; Andrew Younce, Jeptha Ballenger, Jesse
Forkner and Samuel T. AVilson, corporals, and the following were
privates: George W. Blazer, William H. Brown, John Cannon, James
P. Carroll, Leander Carty, Lewas Carty, Patrick Crook, Lewis Dean,
Allen Delph, James M. Fidler, George W. Hackleman, John Hamilton,
John Harris, William W. Kersey, John Madden, John C. Matthews,
Philip Mills, John Saunders, David Sehrackengast, James Seybert,
Curtis Six, Charles R. Y'^alker, James T. Wall, Benjamin Ward, Marion
Webb and William W. Whitehead.
One Hundred and Forty -ninth — In Company C of this regiment were
six privates from Madison county, to wit: Elisha J. Baldon, Samuel
Baldon, John Hamriek, John C. Hart, Joseph W. McDonald, John C.
Nelson.
One Hundred and Fifty-third — In this regiment the only man cred-
ited to Madison county was George W. Thorn, who was first lieutenant
of Company K.
One Hundred and Fifty-fourth —William Brown was commissioned
second lieutenant of Company I, in which the follovring privates were
credited to Madison county : George Bear, Wesley Call, Richard Clark,
Daniel W. Hadley, Richard Harris, David C. Hawk, William R, HoUo-
well, William F. Lee, William B. Moulden, Harrison H. Pratt, Isaac
W. Pemster, George Robinett, Leander M. Scheeau, Andrew J. Sullivan,
Daniel I. Sullivan, John T. Sullivan, Hezekiah and Wilson T. Tinieblood.
One Hundred and Fifty-fifth — This was the last of the one-year regi-
ments. In Company F were Charles Adams, Isaac Hopper, Harrison
Hyfield, Andrew A. Kaufman and Elba Musick.
Fifth Cavalry
This was the Nineteenth Indiana Regiment in the order of formation.
It was organized late in the year 1862, with Felix W. Graham as
colonel, and was sent to the front in detachments. A portion of Com-
pany K was recruited in Madison county. Of tliis company Alansou
E. Russell, of Pendleton, was second lieutenant ; David C. Johnson,
sergeant, Philemon E. J. Mills, corporal, and the following served as
privates : Richard M. Andrew, Charles A. Bates, John Buser, James W.
Combs, James W. Cook, William E. Crain, Ross Crossley, George W.
Cummins, Perry C. Cummins, Simon Cummins, Madison Davis, Thomas
L. B. Hayes, Darius R. Huston, Samuel C. Huston, William Landphire,
Oliver H. IMorse, Albert Newman, James Pa.vne, Junius C. Samuels,
John W. Short, Harper W. Smith. Isaac Thurston, Madison Watkins.
In Company I was one Jladison county man — Isaac S. Harger.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 305
In March, 1868, the several companies ot the regiment was con-
centrated at Glasgow, Kentucky, and for the remainder of their service
the men almost lived in the saddle, scouting, skirmishing and foraging
in Kentucky and Tennessee. It was with General Stoneman on the raid
to the rear of Atlanta and was mustered out on June 16, 1865.
Eighth C.walry
Originally this regiment was an infantry organization and was known
as the Thirty-ninth Infantry. It was mustered in as such on August
29, 1861, with Thomas J. Harrison as colonel, and continued as infantry
until April, 1863, when the men were furnished horses and the regi-
ment served as mounted infantry until the 15th of the following
October, when Companies L aiid M were added, bringing it up to the
standard of a full cavalry regiment. It was then reorganized as the
Eighth Cavalry. Madison county was represented in Companies A, B,
E, G, I, L and M.
Company A — Upon the muster rolls of this company were the names
of six privates from Madison county — Thomas J. Adair, Thomas J.
Clevenger, Leroy S. Fallis, William E. Mayo, John H. Poor and
Augustus Simington.
Company B — In this company were Privates John A. Applegate,
George W. Hosier, George W. Lamar, Jolin Landers, James M. Teeters,
Uriah Vermillion. John A. Applegate was promoted to company quarter-
master sergeant.
Company E — Fifteen Madison county men enlisted in this company,
viz. : William Aldridge, John E. Boyer (sergeant, promoted to captain),
John Cook, Joshua Fisher, Samuel Fisher, William Foland, Noah W.
Hall, David McCoy, Ephraim Nicholson, James Nicholson, James A.
Nicholson (promoted second lieutenant), William P. Nicholson, Andrew
T. Welchel, John Welchel and Jacob Worts.
Company G — Only two names of Madison county men appear upon
the rolls of this company — William C. Antrim and James R. Hanshaw.
Company I — In this company were eleven privates — Reuben B.
Aldrich, Martin Bectwith, Scott Cole, Abraham Eshelman, Jacob Eshel-
man, Robert S. PaiLssett, Allen Fisher, Stewart Fisher, Samuel Lanum,
Edward C. Stephenson and Job Swain. The last named was promoted
to sergeant.
Company L — This company contained more Madison county men
than any other in the regiment. They were Privates William L. Barker,
Travis M. Bowers, John A. Bowsman, George I. Burr, RoUin Carroll,
Addison Fisher, George FLsher, Thomas L. Fisher (promoted to com-
missary sergeant), Nathan Fuller, William Gearhardt, James Gwinn,
George Hai-pold, Jacob M. Harpold, Stephen John, Henry Johnson,
Lewis Klepfer, James W. McGraw, William P. Miller, Amos Ratcliffe,
Joseph Shebo, Madison Teeters, Mathers Tobin, Samuel WeLsh, Samuel
Wolf and Jacob M. Wysong.
Company H — In th'" company were Robert A. Armfield, William H.
Bradley, Thomas Camel, Thomas Casto, Orlando Ellis. Carna Parsons,
306 HISTORY OF MADiSOX COIXTV
Frank Rector, Richard B. Slietterl^-, Andrew Shettcrly, John A. Smith
and William B. Tinker.
After being reorganized as a cavalry regijiient, the command was
engaged in courier duty about Chattanooga until the spring of 1864.
It took part in tlie Rousseau raid into Alabauui, the Atlanta campaign,
the i\lcC'ook i-aid around Atlanta, ami then followed Shernuin to the
sea and up through the Carolinas. It was mustered out in North
Carolina on 'hily 20, 1865, and tlie men were finally discharged at
Indianapolis on the 2nd of August.
Artillery Service
Madison county was represented in two batteries of light artillery.
In the Second Battery were Robert Brickley, John Hardin (promoted
to second lieutenant), James M. Irish, Samuel Johnson, Alexander Y.
Johnson, ilathias Jones, Lewis Koeniger, John B. Lewis, Valentine
McNeer, Charles A. Maul, Corydon W. J\Iaul, George W. Measer, "William
W. Roberts, George W. Swain and Charles Vandevender. This battery
served in Missouri and Arkansas and was in a number of spirited
engagements with the enemy, including the battles of Cane Hill, Prairie
Grove, Buffalo Mountain, Poisoned Spring, Marks' Mills and Jenkins'
Ferry. Late in 1864 it was sent to Tennessee, where it joined the army
under General Thomas and took part in the battle of Nashville. It was
mustered out at Indianapolis on July 3, 1865.
In the Eighteenth Battery were Samuel B. Agnew, Albert Allen,
William Black, Francis M. Evans, Harvey W. Hubbard, John Johns,
John D. Johnson (promoted to second lieutenant), Ezra Loyd, William
L. M'cAninch, Abram S. McCorkle, George S. McMuUen (promoted to
sergeant), John R. Malcolm and Joel H. Wood. This battery was
mustered in at Indianapolis on August 24, 1862, with Eli Lilly as
captain. Until the spring of 1864 it was in Kentucky and Tennessee.
It was in the battles at Hoover's Gap, Chickamauga, and a number of
minor actions, and during the Atlanta campaign was in action almost
daily. After the fall of Atlanta it returned to Tennessee and it formed
part of General Wilson's command in the famous raid through Alabama
and Georgia. It w^as mustered out at Indianapolis on June 30, 1865.
(Note — lu the foregoing muster rolls it is probable that some of the names
are misspelled, but as they are copied from the reports of the adjutant-general,
it was deemed advisable not to attempt an_y corrections.)
Under the provisions of the act passed at the special session of the
legislature in 1861, "for the organization and regulation of the Indiana
militia," ten companies of the "Indiana Legion" were formed in iladi-
son county. They were the Foster's Branch Guards, organized June
10, 1861, Burwell Williamson, captain; Alfont Guards, organized June
24, 1861, John Patterson, captain; Fisherburg Union Guards, organized
June 24, 1861, H. G. Fisher, captain; Perkinsville Grays, organized June
28, 1861, H. G. Fisher, captain; Green Township Rangers, organized
September 11, 1862, William Nickleson, captain; Home Guards (Pendle-
ton), organized July 18, 1863, Isaac P. Rinewalt, captain; Morton
]iisToi;v OF :.[.\i)is()x corxTV .jo?
Xoblps, organi/.cil July 2'), hsG:! A. J. Ilutl'iiian, captain; Alt'out Guards
Xo. 2, organizeil July 2."), ISlii!, Warriiiglou CI. Roberts, i-aptaiii ; Waus-
lield Guards, organized August 1, 186:i, Epliraiiu ]i. Doll, eaptain ;
Alexaiulria (iuards, organized August 8, ISii'.i, Jonathan Jones, captain.
These companies were never called into the field, but a large number
of their members enlisted in other companies and were mustered into the
service of the I'nited States.
AVhile the "Boys in Blue" were at the front, the county authorities
and loyal citizens at home were not unmindful of the country's defenders
and the neces-sities of their families. In September, 1861, the commis-
sioneis ajipropriated .'i<200 for the purclia.se of lumber to be used in
fitting up a camp for the ai'conunodntion of a regiment being organized
at Andei'son, the mone.v being made payable to Thomas X. Stihvell,
conunissary. At the same session the sum of $300 was appropriated for
the I'elief of soldiers' families and the trustees of the several townships
were instructed to look after such families and see that their wants
were relieved. In August, 1862. at a special session of the commis-
sioners' court, it was ordered that "an allowance of one dollar per week
be made to each soldier's wife or widowed mother, and fifty cents to
each child under ten years of age," the disbui-sements to be made by the
township trustees. A month later the board ordered a tax levy of ten
cents on each .flOO worth of property in the county to provide a fund
for the relief of soldiers' families. This order and the one preceding
it remained in force until the war was over.
A special session of the commissioners was held in November, 1863,
when it was ordered that each volunteer credited to Madison county be
paid fifty dollars bounty when he produced the certificate of the muster-
ing officer and presented it to the county auditor, and fifty dollars more
at the expiration of his service. To raise the money for this purpose
a levy of twenty-five cents on each $100 worth of property was ordered.
Up to June. 1864, the county treasurer had received for military pur-
poses $10,812.97, and had disbursed $10,700.
When the call for 300,000 men was made by the president in 186-4,
the commissioners of Madison county, in order to fill the quota, ordered
the payment of a bounty of $400 "to each volunteer or drafted man,"
and at the same time authorized a bond issue of $200,000. Altogether,
the amount of money exjjended by the county for bounties and in the
relief of soldiers' families was $354,940. This can be ascertained from
the records, but the amount given by private citizens in their individual
capacity will never be known. 'Slany a sack of flour, many a basket of
groceries, many a bundle of school books, found their way in an unosten-
tatious manner to the home of .some soldier's wife, that her children
might be fed and enabled to attend .school. If the value of all these
donations could be ascertained it would doul)tles,s aggregate more than
the official appropriations of the county. And it is greatly to the credit
of the noble women, whose husliands were engaged in fighting the battles
of their country, that :l.ey were not too proud to accept these olferings
of charity. E\en cast off clothing was accepted without the feeling
that it was a reflection upon their poverty, but rather a grateful recog-
nition on the part of some loyal neighbor of the .sacrifice they had made
308 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
in sending the ones they loved best to preserve the institutions the
Revolutionary forefathers established.
Spanish-American War
For four centuries after the discovery of America, Cuba was a
dependency of Spain. In 1850 Narcisso Lopez planned an expedition
for the liberation of the islanders, but it failed. Four years later the
Cuban junta in New York organized a movement upon a larger scale,
but news reached Spain and the undertaking was "nipped in the bud."
In 1868 there was a general uprising among the Cubans, which was
followed by a ten j'ears' war, during which Spain sent over 100,000
troops to the island. At the end of that war the debt of $200,000,000
was saddled upon the Cubans and this soon started another revolution.
The Cubans moved slowly, however, and it was not until February,
1895, that an open insurrection broke out in the provinces of Santiago,
Santa Clara and Matanzas. Within sixty dajs 50,000 Spanish troops
were in Cuba, under command of General Campos. He was superseded
by General Weyler, whose cruelties aroused the indignation of the
civilized world and forced the Spanish government to send General
Blanco to take his place.
In the meantime legislatures and political conventions in the United
States had passed resolutions asking this government to recognize the
belligerent rights, if not the independence of Cuba. About ten o'clock
on the evening of February 15, 1898, the United States battleship Maine,
then lying at anchor in the harbor of Havana, was blown up and a
number of her crew were killed. This brought the excitement in the
United States to fever heat, and on April 11, 1898, President McKinley
sent a special message to Congress asking for authority to intervene in
behalf of the Cubans. On the 20th Congress passed a resolution, which
was approved by the president the same day, recognizing the inde-
pendence of Cuba and demanding that Spain withdraw all claims to
and authority over the island. On the 25th war was formally declared
by Congress, though two days before the president had declared the
ports of Cuba in a state of blockade and called for 125,000 volunteers
to enforce the resolution of Congress.
Late on the afternoon of April 25, 1898, Governor James A. Mount
received a telegram from the secretary of war announcing that Indiana's
quota of the 125,000 troops would be four regiments of infantry and
two light batteries. The telegram also stated that it was the president's
wish "that the regiments of the National Guard or state militia shall
be used as far as their numbers will permit, for the reason that they
are armed, equipped and drilled."
Instead of four regiments, the state raised five, which were numbered
to begin where the Civil war numbers left off. The Indiana regiments
recruited for the Spanish-American war were therefore the 157th, 158th,
159th, 160th and 161st. Company I of the One Hundred and Sixtieth
was originally Company I of the Fourth Regiment, Indiana National
Guard. In this company were a number of Elwood men. Alexander
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
309
Dillon held the rank of corporal and the following served as privates:
John J. Altmeyer, Nalzo Andrews, Walter Barbo, William Brothers,
Cullodin Coyle, Edward Douglass, Harry Douglass, Edward E. Garret-
son, William Henderson, William Kennedy, Oustave Kappahan, Francis
Kramer, Peter W. Lamb, George Martin, Walter Napier, Peter Peal,
Richard G. Smith, RoUa Thurman.
Company L of this regiment was organized at Anderson and was
composed chiefly of the old members of Company C, Fourth Regiment,
Opficeks Company L., 160th I. V. I.
Indiana National Guard. When mustered into the United States service
with the regiment, the company roster was as follows: Kenneth M.
Burr, captain; John B. Collins, first lieutenant; George C. Sausser,
second lieutenant; Herbert C. Brunt, first sergeant; Robert H. Antrim,
quartermaster sergeant ; John J. Ellis, Lee C. Newsom, George H.
Durhin, Chauncey O. Towell, sergeants; Claude S. Burr, Dorr S.
Worden, John A. Ross, D;:vid V Martin, Howard F. Henry, Robert N.
Nichols, corporals; John L. Hopper, Roscoe Cook, musicians; Thomas
M, Dee, wagoner; William Neft, artificer.
310 IIISTOKV Ol-" .MADISON (■()rXT\'
Privates— Howard .M. Akhvd. Carl (1. ISailcy, .r.iscpli V . l^akur,
George lieasoii, George A. UeclitoUlt, Frank M. licnliow, Cliarles 15oyd,
George W. Bond, Jr., William II. iJromaii, Clay M. Brown, Israel Brown,
Harry Bush, ('laude A. Carpenter, P^ghert E. Carpenter, Clement C.
Cole, Bert J. Cooper, Harry W. Criill, William J. Cumberledge, IJucl
E. Davenport, Herman J3ietricli, P^nos J. Diinbai', Edward Eaton,
Chester R. Falknor, Oliver Fickle, Henry II. Fischer, Charles Fisher,
James A. Fountain, Levi Garrison, ^lorris A. Hallenbcek, Ethel L.
Hinegar, Volney M. Hunt, Jr., Edward M. Inelenrock, John F. Keieher,
Elmo Kellar, Henry M. Kendric, John Keorper, Omer Lawson, John
T. Lay, Frank ^I. Levy, Oscar Lindstrom. Butler Livesay, Lewis F.
Loch, William P. Lycan, Jetferson T. ]\Iartin. Byron iledskar, Wilford
W. ^lingle. James Miller, Bert R. iloon, Harry Moore, Clarence B.
Mourer, Robert Murphv, James 0. Pattie, Othello Roach, Harrv Rosen-
field, Charles iM. Shatter, Joseph H. Smith, Charles E. Tharp, Harry
Thomas, William H. Wagoner, Charles G. Weger, Lowell C. William-
son, William Williamson, Frank ]M. Wilson, Robert L. Wilson.
Recruits — Charles l^idwell, Jesse Bonhomme, Isaac Bosworth, John
W. Coburn, Elmer W. Cummings, Manford Denney, Francis Evans,
Harry Z. Griffith, Harry C. Hawkins, John S. Hayes, Roy S. Jeffers,
Frank Keckler, William Mansfield, Robert McConnell, Howard ]\Ioulden,
Bert Munyon, Louis E. Radway, Amos Ricketts, Arthur Rhonemus,
Clarence B. Seybert, William B. Sine, Jr., Thomas C. Smith, John
Stark, Rolla C. Trees, Lee W'eger, Richard Welsh, Oscar Wynn.
These recruits were made necessary because for some reason about
twenty-five of the original company were rejected by the mustering
officer for different causes, whereupon Captain Burr telegraphed a
friend in Anderson to recruit twenty-five additional men. A recruiting
office was opened in John Keener 's cigar store, on Meridian street, and
in less than half an hour the quota was full. An amusing incident
occurred in connection with the recruiting. Among those who came
forward to offer their services was a young man known as "Splinks"
Myers, an employee of the American Wire and Steel Company, who had
been married but a few days before. After he had signed the roll, the
recruiting officer asked Myers if he had sent word to his wife. "Hell,
no," answered Splinks, "she'll see it in the paper in the morning."
Upon arriving at Indianapolis Splinks expressed his disappointment
because the recruits were not met by a band and escort, refused to be
sworn in, and beat the recruiting officer back to Anderson. That ended
his military career.
The One Hundred and Sixtieth was mustered into the United States
service on ;\Iay 12, 1808, and proceeded directly to Camp Thomas, at
Chickamauga Park, Georgia, where it remained until July 28th, when
it went to Newport News, Virginia. In August it was transferred to
Camp Hamilton, Lexington, Kentucky, and in November to Columbus,
Georgia. On January 15, 1899, it was ordered to Matanzas, Cuba, and
remained there until the following March, when it returned to the
United States and was nuistered out at Savannah, Georgia. April 25,
1899. Captain Burr continued in the service, was appointed major in
the ri'iiiilnr ai'iiiy and assigned to duty in the Philippine Islands,
HISTORY OF MADISON COl XTV 311
The armory of tlie old Ooinpaiiy C, Fouith National Guard, ia
located at the eoriier of Ninth street aud Central avenue, Anderson,
The company was called out by Governor Matthews at the time of the
great strike iu the coal fields and impressed everybody by its soldierly
conduct. At the beginning of the movement to Cuba in January, 1899,
Sergeant Lee Newsoin and Sister Benita, for several years connected
with St. John's Hospital at Antlerson, were especially honored l)y being
sent in advance to arrange the ho.spital service.
Winfield T. Durbin, of Anderson, was conuiiissioned colonel of the
One Hundred and Sixt\-first Regiment, and John R. Brunt, also of
Anderson, was appointed quartermaster. This regiment was mustered
in on Jul.y 15, 1898, and was assigned to the Seventh Corps, commanded
by General Fitzhugh Lee. On December 13, 1898, it left Savannah,
Georgia, for Havana, and remained on duty in Cuba until the follow-
ing March, when it returned to Savannah and was there mustered out on
April 30, 1899. Iu 1900 Colonel Durbin was elected governor of
Indiana.
CHAPTER XVIII
CRIMES AND CASUALTIES
Murder of the Indians in 1824 — The Abbott Mystery — Killing of
Tharp and Escape of Cox — Murder op Daniel Hoppis by Milton
White — The Dale-Traster Affair — Mysterious Murder of Albert
Mawson — Disappearance of Susan Nelson — Shooting op Bene-
FiEL by Davis — Charles Kynett Shot by the City Marshal — Kill-
ing op McLelland Streets — McCullough Shot by Welsh— Kill-
ing OF Albert Hawkins — Historic Fires in Anderson, Elwood,
Alexandria, Frankton and Summitvidle — Some Great Storms —
Floods op 1847, 1875, 1884, 1904 and 1913.
Scarcely had the county of Madison been organized and her civil
and legal machinery been placed in working order, when a crime was
committed within her borders that filled the people of the frontier settle-
ments with both fear and indignation. Although the lands had been
ceded to the United States by the Indians, there were but few white
settlers as yet within what is now Madison county, game was plentiful,
and occasionally small parties of the natives would return to their former
hunting grounds in quest of meat and peltries. Early in the spring
of 1824 a party of Senecas, consisting of two men, three squaws and
four children, came into the county and encamped on Fall creek, about
two miies above the present village of Ovid, in a dense fprest filled
with game. Some alarm was felt by the few white settlers in that
locality at the establishment of an Indian encampment so near their
homes, but the Indians were friendly and showed no inclination to
commit depredations of any character against the person or property
of their white neighbors. The two Indian men were called Ludlow
and Mingo, the former said to have been so named for Stephen Ludlow,
of Lawrenceburg, Indiana.
After they had been in their camp for about a week five white men —
Thomas Harper, Andrew Sawyer, John Bridge, John T. Bridge and
James Hudson — visited the Indians, pretending to have lost their horses,
and asking Ludlow and Mingo to assist in finding them. The Indians
readily consented and when a short distance from the camp Harper shot
Ludlow and Hudson shot Mingo, both men being killed instantly. The
white men then returned to the camp, where Sawyer shot one of the
squaws. Bridge, Sr., another and Bridge, Jr., the third. The four chil-
dren— two boys about ten years old and two girls still y .nger — were
312
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
313
wantonly murdered, after which the camp was robbed of everything
of value.
When news of this atrocious crime spread through the settlements,
the people were terrified, fearing other Indians would come in to avenge
their slaughtered kinsmen, and that their retaliatory vengeance would
be meted out without discrimination. An account of the affair was
sent to the war department by the Indian agent at Piqua, Ohio, with
the result that Colonel Johnston and William Conner visited all the
Indian tribes and promised them that the government would punish
the murderers. This had a salutary effect upon the situation, the
Indians accepting the promise and the settlei-s becoming less afraid
of a massacre.
Immediately after the murder Harper went to Ohio and was never
taken into custody. The other four men were arrested and lodged in
the log jail at Pendleton, where they were tried and convicted. Hudson
Abbott Cabin
was tried at the October term of court in 1824, and was hanged on
December 1, 1824. The other three were tried in May, 1825. All were
found guilty and sentenced to be lianged on the first Friday in June.
Andrew Sawj^er and the elder Bridge were executed according to the
sentence, but the younger Bridge was pardoned on the scaffold by
Governor James B. Ray, who was present at the execution. This was
the first, and is perhaps the only instance in the history of American
jurisprudence, where white men were legally executed for the killing
of Indians.
About the year 1830 a man named Abbott, with his wife and two
grown sons, came from Kentucky and settled near the White river, a
short distance west of where the ]\Ioss Island mills were built a few
years later. The cabin occupied by this family stood upon the north side
of the old Strawtown road and occasionally some traveler would spend
314 IIISTURV OK :\1AI)1S0X CUl XTV
thf night tlunt'. It was no uiicoimuoii oc-L-urreiK-e' lor the eldtT Ai.liott
and his two sons to make trips away Ironi home and l)e absent for two
or three weeks at a time, hut no one ever learned the reason for these
journeys. While not absolutely unsociable, they were very reticent about
their affaii-s, and in a new country, where every one knew all that was
goiniT on in the neighborhood, this caused the Abbotts to be looked upon
as untrustworthy.
In the suunuer of 18;^2, a man from Ohio reached the Abbott cabin
late in the afternoon and sought a night's lodging. He was traveling
by easy stages, looking at lands on his way. with a view to I'emoving his
family to a new home, provided a suitable location could be found.
Before leaving his home in Ohio he announced his intention to return
within si.K weeks. About two weeks after that time had expired his
relatives sent out a searching party. He was traced without difficulty to
the Abbott cabin, whose inmates admitted that he had stopped there, but
stated that the next morning he had proceeded on his w-ay westward.
In(iuiries west of that point failed to elicit any information of the
missing man and the searchers returned to Ohio.
Not long after that the body of a strange man was found floating
in the White river a short distance below the Abbott home. No one
could identify the remains, and the generally accepted theory was that the
unfortunate individual was some passing stranger who had accidentally
fallen into the river. There were some who refused to concur in this
opinion ar.i intimated foul play. "While the puzzle was still unsolved
the Abbotts disappeared one night without leaving any hint of their
destination. Their flight in this mysterious manner was regarded by
many as a confession of guilt and strengthened the belief that the body
found in the river was that of the Ohio land hunter, who had been
murdered by the Abbotts for his money. In time the cabin acquired the
reputation of being haunted and many people avoided it after night-
fall. The Abbotts were never heard of again.
A peculiar homicide, with an equally peculiar aftermath, was com-
mitted on Thanksgiving day in 1847 at a distillery a little West of the
mounds and about two and a half miles from Anderson. A shooting
match had been arranged and among those in attendance were two
young men named Tharp and Cox, between whom there was ill feeling.
Tharp was the larger and w-as inclined to play the part of a bully in
his treatment of Cox. The latter had several times moved away to avoid
Tharp 's insolence, but at last "forbearance ceased to be a virtue."
Snatching a rifle from one of the bystanders, he brought the barrel
down upon Tharp "s head with such force as to fracture the skull, caus-
ing almost instant death. Cox crossed the river to his home, about a
mile away, but the next morning he was arrested and lodged in jail
at Andei-son. At the next meeting of the grand jury an indictment for
murder was returned.
Cox had many friends who took the view that he had acted in self
defense, or at least had been provoked to make the assault. Knowing
that the old log jail was nut in^'ulnerable. some of these friends
detennined to effect his release rather than to permit him to stand trial.
Five men were in the secret. In visiting Cox in jail these men managed
IIISTOKV OF .MADISON C'OrXTV
;ii5
to fluile till' watchful i'\i' ol' Slicrill' .loliii II. Diivis long enough to take
an impression of the loek in heeswa.K. A ke.v was made, secretly tested
ami founil to work. A nigiit was ti;en seh-etetl for the release of the
prisoner and about an hour before midnight, when everything was still,
the live men ([uietly approached the jail, one of them leading Cox's horse,
which had been freshly shod for the occasion. While four stood on
watch, the fifth noiselessly unlocked the door and Cox came out. A few
minutes hurried conversation in muffled tones and he mounts his horse,
turns his head westward and sets out on his journey toward freedom.
Pursuit was made as far as Logansport, where all trace of the fugitive
was lost. There were then no telegraphs, telephones, nor even fast mail
^Iii.Tox White
routes in the West, and tlie api)reliension of a fleeing person under
the ban of the law was a much more difificult matter than at the present
time. The exact manner of Cox's escape was not kno\vn until long
afterward. Some twenty-five years later a citizen of Madison county
happened to meet Cox in northern Wisconsin, but no effort was ever made
to bring him back for l:ial.
Upon the morning of April 8, 1867, Daniel lloppis, a farmer living
about three miles south of Anderson, mi.ssed some meat from his smoke-
house and noticed tracks leading to\v:ird the dwelling of Milton AVliite.
316 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Accompanied by a neighbor, a Mr. Swearingen, Hoppis started for
Anderson to secure a search warrant, but the two men met White
before reaching the city. After a short conversation between the sus-
pected man and Swearingen, the former agreed to permit Hoppis to
search his premises without the formality of a warrant and the two men
started together for White's house, Mr. Swearingen returning to his
home.
When Mr. Hoppis failed to return home either for dinner or supper,
his wife informed some of the neighbors of his prolonged absence. In
the meantime the story of the stolen meat had been circulated and White
was at once suspected of knowing something of the missing man's
whereabouts. Accordingly a number of citizens called at White 's house
to make inquiries. White was asleep, but upon being aroused denied
all knowledge of Hoppis. He was kept under sui-veillance, however,
until daylight the next morning, when he was forced to join the party
in search of the man he was accused of having killed. In a little ravine
running through a small piece of woods, near the road known as the
east New Columbus pike and about two miles from Anderson, was found
the body of Hoppis. Near by was a sassafras club about four feet
long, bearing hair and clots of blood, showing plainly that it was the
weapon that had been used. This was near the place where Hoppis
and White had last been seen together by Patrick Allen. White was
given a preliminary hearing before Justice of the Peace Schlater and
was bound over to the circuit court. At the next term of court he was
tried, found guilty and sentenced to be hanged on September 20, 1867,
but a respite was granted until the 1st of November by Governor Baker,
to give him an opportunity to consider a petition for the commutation
of the sentence to life imprisonment. Upon considering all phases of
the case the governor declined to interfere, and on Friday, November 1,
1867, White was forced to pay the penalty of his crime upon the scaffold.
This was one of the most brutal murders that ever occurred in the State
of Indiana. Daniel Hoppis was a kind-hearted, inoffensive citizen,
industrious and devoted to his family, and vnthout an enemy in the
world. It is quite probable that if White had returned the stolen
meat he would never have been prosecuted for the theft.
Later in the same month (April, 1867) William Traster was killed
by Granville Dale, but this traged.y was of a far different character.
At that time Robert and William Traster were the proprietors of the
Moss Island Mills. They had many friends and their mills were a
favorite resort for fishing and picnic parties. One Sunday, late in
April, a number of Anderson men, among whom were Captain Ethan
Allen, R. C. Reed and ex-Sheriff Benjamin Sebrell, went to the mills on a
fishing excursion, intending to take dinner with the Trasters. They
took along something to drink and Granville Dale, who was in the
employ of the millers as a teamster, took a little too much. When the
call came for dinner, Dale was attending to the horses. A slight con-
troversy arose between him and William Traster and the latter made a
move as though he was going to inflict some personal chastisement upon
Dale. Although fuddled by drink, Dale realized that he was no match
HISTORY OF ]MADISON COUNTY 317
for his employer in strength. Seizing a stone about the size of a goose
egg, he hurled it with all his might at Traster, striking him upon the
head and fracturing the skull. The fishing party carried the injured
man to the house, but he died soon after being struck, all efforts to
restore him being futile. Dale gave himself up to the sheriff, admitted
his guilt and at the succeeding term of court was sentenced to seven
years in the penitentiary for manslaughter. He served his time and
afterward was employed as cab driver for several years in Indianapolis.
He always spoke of Ids act with regret, as the man he killed was his
best friend. Both were under the influence of liquor at the time. Had
they been sober the deed would in all probability not have been committed.
On October 21, 187-4, the body of Albert Mawson was found in an
abandoned well on the Mawson farm, about three miles southeast of
Anderson, with the front teeth knocked in, the jaw-bone broken and the
side of the head crushed. A rope was around the neck, blood stains could
be seen upon the boards around the mouth of the well, and for several
rods across the field to south were evidences that a heavy body of some
kind had been dragged toward the well. Coroner Maynard was sum-
moned and when the body, in a nude condition, was taken from the
well it was seen that decomposition had set in, indicating that the young
man had been dead for some time. His mother, a widow, told a somewhat
incoherent story about her son 's disappearance some time before. Investi-
gation developed the fact that she had had some trouble with another
son, and while this disagreement was at its height Mrs. Mawson deeded
her farm to Albert, her youngest child, saying that she had some hopes
of his becoming a useful man, while the other son was inclined to be a
spendthrift.
Subsequently Albert became rather reckless in his habits and showed
a disposition to stray away from home. At one time he found a position
as brakeman with a railroad company and this displeased his mother,
who wanted him to remain at home. Suspicion pointed to her as her
son's murderer, the motive being to regain possession of the lands she
had deeded to him. After the hearing before the coroner she was arrested
and placed in jail to await the action of the grand jury. The verdict of
the coroner's jury was that "Albert Mawson came to his death by a
blow intiictod \\ith an axe or some other hard substance, in the hands
of Nancy Mawson (his mother), which the jury finds to be the cause of
the death of the victim."
This verdict was rendered on October 21, 1874, and four days later
Mrs. ]\rawson ended her life in jail by taking arsenic, having secreted
a (|uantity of that drug in her clothing prior to her arrest. The scene
of this tragedy was not far from the place where Milton White had
murdered Daniel Hoppis seven years before.
A shocking crime, and one that awakened wide-spread interest in
Madison county, occurred in the early autumn of 1883. That was the
killing of Rusan Nelson, widow of William Nelson and a member of the
well known Rronnenbers' family, though the murder was committed near
Terre Haute, in Vigo efnnty On Siptt-mher 7, 18S3, ilrs. Nelson called
at the Aniler.son postoffice and left an order for her mail to be forwarded
to Kansas City, ^Missouri. Later in the day she told the drayman who
318 HISTORY OK MADISON (OrXTV
took her trunk to the IVvj. Four station that she was going to visit her
son, Jasper Nelson, who had written to her that lie was seriously ill.
Her absence was notieed by her friends and aeqnaintances, but none
could tell whither she had gone.
In October, James Porter, while hunting in a piece of timber about
three miles southwest of Terre Haute, discovered his dog carrying a
human skull in his moutli and upon searching the neighliorhood found
the body of a woman concealed in the shrubbery. The coroner of Vigo
eountj^ was at once notified and held an inquest. Physicians agreed that
the woman had been dead for sevei'al weeks, but the body could not
be identified. Some days later an insurance policy issued by Bain &
Harris, of Anderson, upon the household goods of Susan Nelson, was
found near the place. The policy was torn and lilood-stained, but it
furnished a clue to the identity of the woman. A detectivvj visited Ander-
son and in company with Marshal Coburn went to the house where Mrs.
Nelson formerly lived, on North Main street. Here they found a letter
from her son, bearing the postmark of Brazil, Indiana, and dated August
23, 1883, only about two weeks before she left Anderson.
People who knew Jasper Nelson knew that he was something of a
spendthrift, but that he had great influence over his mother. As Brazil
is only sixteen miles east of Terre Haute the theory was fonned by
the detective that he had persuaded his mother to visit him and had
tried to get money from her. Whether he succeeded in this or not, he
had murdered her and then made his escape. He was found at Cape
Girardeau, Missouri, and arrested upon suspicion, but was acquitted.
About the time young Nelson was tried, Perry Manis, a former
preacher who resided near Frankton, was noticed to be rather flush with
ready money — an unusual condition for him — and it was remembered
that he had left his home about the time of Mrs. Nelson's departure. An
investigation was started and soon a witness was found who had over-
heard a conversation between Manis and the murdered woman, in which
it was agreed to go to Kansas City and open a boarding house. Manis was
arrested for the murder and taken to Terre Haute for trial. There he
was identified by witnesses who had seen him and Mrs. Nelson together,
and in the trial it developed that he had hired a buggy and driven
away with the woman, but had returned without her. He was therefore
convicted of murder in the first degree and sentenced to a life term
in the penitentiary. In the trial William A. Kittinger, of Anderson,
assisted the prosecuting attorney of Vigo county and rendered valuable
service in securing the conviction of Manis.
An affray occurred in Anderson on the evening of August 7, 1890,
that resulted in the wounding of John Davis and the death of James
Benefiel, a young man who had been rather fond of Mrs. Davis before
her marriage. On the date named Benefiel and a j'oung man named
Edward Brown called at the Davis home on old South Noble street.'
Finding no one at home they entered the house and carried away among
other things a revolver belonging to Davis. While they were lingering in
the neighborhood, apparently waiting for the return of the family,
Davis came home and seeing that things had been disturbed went out to
find an officer. Failing in this he borrowed a revolver from a friend and
HISTORY OF .MADISON COUNTY :n9
again went home, entering the house by the back way. In the meantime
Mrs. Davis and her mother had returned and Benefiel insisted that ^Ire.
Davis come down to the gate. She at first refused, but finally stepped
out in the yard and asked him wliat he wanted. His reply was that he
had been sent by officers to search tlie house, but did not say what for
or upon whose complaint the search was to be made.
Mrs. Davis then went back in the house and told her husband, who
went to the door and ordered Benefiel and his companion to leave the
place. Benefiel turned as if to depart, but after taking a few steps
turned suddenly and fired, the ball taking effect in Davis' right side.
Davis had at one time been a soldier in the regular army and while in
service on the western frontier won a reputation of a marksman. lie
promptly responded to Benefiers sliot, the bullet entering the head just
below the left eye and passing through the skull. Benefiel never recov-
ered consciousness and died about 6 : 30 the next morning. The coroner's
jury that investigated the case found a verdict justifying Davis in his
course and he was not arrested. The parents of young Benefiel lived at
Elvvood and were respected people, though he had formed bad associa-
tions and acquired reckless habits.
A few months later, December 28, 1890, Charles Kynett was shot and
killed by Edward Downey, then city marshal of Anderson. Kynett was
on one of his periodical sprees and started a disturbance at the old
Rozelle House, at the comer of Eleventh and Main streets, when the
marshal was called upon to arrest him. When the officer told Kynett
to behave himself the latter, instead of obeying assaulted Downey, who
several times ordered him to stop or trouble wouJd ensue. Finally the
aggressor became so violent in his demonstrations that the marshal drew
his revolver and fired one shot, which struck a vital part and Kynett
died shortly afterward. The marshal surrendered himself to the authori-
ties, but the coroner's jury brought in a verdict that the shooting was
justified and in self-defense. Kynett was a laborer and when not in his
cups was an average citizen, but when drinking he was inclined to be
boisterous and (|uarrelsome. Marshal Downey expressed his regret at
the unfortunate incident a»d it i.s said was much relieved when his
term as marshal expired.
As a result of a quarrel among neighbors, in which several families
were involved. John !Moriarty shot McLelland Streets at the corner of
Main and Ninth streets, in the city of Anderson, about ten o'clock on
the morning of April 10, 1898. The report of the pistol attracted a
crowd and Edward King took Moriarty into custody until the arrival of
the officers. The general impression was that Moriarty. who ordinarily
was a peaceable man and law-abiding citizen, had lost his reason over
the trivial affairs that led up to the shooting, and it is said was never
the same afterward. He w-as arrested and placed in jail, where he
managed to commit suicide on June 16, 1893, by hanging himself to the
bedstead in his cell. Little was known of Streets, who had been a resident
of the city but a short time, and the sympathies of the community were
generally with the fanulv of Moriarty.
About 1894 the boom wnich followed the discovery of natural gas
was at its height. Just as the so-called "sporting element" is attracted
320 HISTORY OF ilADISON COUNTY
to rich mining camps, so the same class of people is drawn to cities
that are enjoying a period of industrial activity, in the hope of garner-
ing some ' ' easy money. ' ' At the time mentioned Anderson had a number
of saloons with wine rooms attached and on ilay 26, 1894, a young man
known as "Dote" McCulIough was Ivilled in one of these places, con-
ducted by a man named Welsh, on North Main street. It seems that
young McCullough had become enamored of a certain Laura Skidmore,
a woman of questionable reputation, and upon the evening of May
26th he entered the wine rooms at Welsh's place to find her in the com-
pany of another man. He immediately began making threats of what he
would (Jo to the couple, when Dora Welsh came in and ordered him out of
the place. McCullough went, but in about five minutes came back with
a revolver in his hand and declared he would kill Welsh, at whom he
leveled his gun. Welsh sprang toward the j'oaug man and strilck down
his arm just as he fired, the ball taking effect in Welsli's thigh. The two
then clinched, but Welsh managed to draw his own revolver, broke awa}-
and fii-ed suddenly, the bullet crashing through McCullough 's head, kill-
ing him almost instantlj'.
Welsh was taken in charge by the police, the coroner was notified
and the usual inquest in such cases was held over the body of the slain
man. At the preliminary hearing Welsh was acquitted on the grounds
that he acted in self-defense. The incident had a salutary effect upon
Anderson, inasmuch as it brought about a better enforcement of law
and rid the city of some of its undesirable characters.
During the four score and ten years that have passed since the
county of Madison was first organized, a number of homicides, cold-
blooded murders, or brawls in which one or more of the participants
met death have occurred within her borders. Yet it is true that her
people, as a rule, have been no more turbulent nor less law-abiding than
those of other counties. To describe in detail aU these unfortunate
events would require a volume, and the above cases liave been selected
because they were of unusually heinous character or surrounded by an
atmosphere of mystery that made them more than a "nine days'
wonder. ' '
On the evening of July 9, 1913, at the little town of Ingalls, a hom-
icide occurred that attracted far more than ordinary attention on
account of the prominence of the parties engaged. Some time before
that an election had been held in Green township under the local option
law and the people had voted that no intoxicating liquors should be
sold in the township. As is always the case, this mandate of the people,
as well as the law, was disregarded and liquors were sold. Early in
June, 1913, Constable Albert Hawkins, of Anderson, conducted a raid
on the hotel of Ingalls and confiscated a quantity of liquor and the
fixtures. W. W". Brown, proprietor of the hotel and trustee of Green
township, naturally did not feel kindly toward the constable. In the
meantime Hawkins went to a hospital in Indianapolis, where he under-
went an operation. It is thought that on his way back to his home in
Anderson from the hospital he stopped off at Ingalls on the evening
of July 9, 1913. Town :Marshal Manifold stated that he met the con-
HISTORY OF iMADISON COUNTY 321
stable that evening and that Hawkins told him he was there on business,
but did not expect to make any arrests.
About 10:30 that evening, according to newspaper accounts of the
affair, the body of Hawkins was found lying in the street in front of
Alfont's store, a short distance south of the Union Traction line. Ear-
lier in the evening he had been standing in front of the hotel, but had
gone up the street and for an hour l)efore the finding of his body had
not been seen. At 10 :10 an interurban car arrived at Ingalls from
Indianapolis and four young men — Raymond Higgs, Fred Piper, George
Kuhn and Lester Copeland — who had been spending the evening at
Fortville, alighted from the car. Some of them afterward stated that
when they stepped from the car they noticed three men in front of
the hotel who appeared to be quarreling. A little while later Fred
Piper, while on his way home, heard a man gi'oaning. He hurried to
the home of J. M. Roberts and told him that some man up the street
was hurt, perhaps killed. Mr. Roberts, who had not yet retired, started
toward the spot and on the way met Marshal Manifold. About one hun-
dred feet south of the Union Traction line, at a dark spot in front of Al-
font's store, they found the body of Albert Hawkins. An artery in the
neck had been severed and blood was still issuing from the wound, al-
though the man was dead. There was also a gash about an inch and a
half in length on his right side.
Coroner Albright, Sheriff Black and one of his deputies left Ander-
son on the 11 :15 car for Ingalls and arrived there before the body had
been disturbed. The oiBcers went to work on a clue and soon ascer-
tained that the two men suspected were still in Ingalls. The sheriff
summoned Prosecutor Shuman by telephone and that officer, accom-
panied by Deputy Sheriff Ambrose, hurried to Ingalls in an automobile.
All trains were watched, the house of one of the citizens, in which the
men were supposed to be hiding, was surrounded and every precaution
taken to prevent any one from leaving or entering the town without
being observed and identified. Notwithstanding all these measures,
Trustee Brown and liis son, William, Jr., twenty-seven years of age,
managed to elude the vigilance of the officers and at one o'clock on the
morning of the 10th arrived at the county jail in Anderson and gave
themselves up to the turnkey. The young man stated that he had killed
Albert Hawkins and was locked up, the father waiting in the office of
the jail for the officers to return. Sheriff Black received word at Green-
field, whitKer he had gone in the effort to intercept Brown and his son,
that they were at the Madison county jail, and hurried back to Ander-
son. While waiting for the sheriff' 's arrival the elder Brown gave out
the following statement, which was published in the Anderson Herald of
that date:
"T was in Fortville last evening and returned to Ingalls on the 10
o'clock traction car. "WTien I stepped from the car, my boy. William,
was sitting in front of the hotel crying. When I asked him what was
the trouble, he told me that Constable Hawkins, of Anderson. wa.s going
to kill him. The bn\ is a little hard of h. aring and pasily angered.
He told me that he had met Hawkins last evening in Phillips' grocery,
in the north end of Ingalls, and at that time Hawkins showed a revolver
Vol. I— Jl
322 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and told the boy that he was in Ingalls watching, and was going to kill
some one before leaving. Hawkins and my son had some words and all
evening Hawkins seemed to be looking for trouble. Late in the even-
ing my son and I started home and Hawkins followed us across the
street. Thej' had a few words in the middle of the street and Hawkins
still followed us. In front of Alfont's store they mi.xed and it was
t?hen that Hawkins started to draw a gun on my son and William cut at
Hawkins, stabbing him in the neck. ]My son did it in self-defense, hav-
ing been followed by Hawkins all evening and threatened many times."
The case against Brown and his son at this writing is still pending.
Soon after his being confined in the jail, Mr. Brown's bondsmen asked
to be released, but he filed a new bond and is still trustee of Green town-
ship, transacting much of the township business in jail, or in some of
the county offices, where he is taken under guard for the purpose.
On the night of November 12, 1851, the buildings on the south side
of the public square in Anderson were destroyed by fire. The fire
originated in the frame building at the southeast corner of the square
occupied by Sherman & Wolf as a fanning mill factory. It was dis-
covered shortly after midnight and was supposed to have been of in-
cendiary oi-igin. Nest to Sherman & Wolf's place was a small frame
cottage, at that time unoccupied. The next building was a three-story
frame, in the lower story of which was Joseph Fulton's clothing store.
Next to that \ras the shop of Adam Reed, a hatter, and the next build-
ing was the general store of Dr. Towns-end Ryan. Then came the
Myers House, a two-story log ctructure owned and occupied by "Uncle
Billy" Myers as a tavei-n, and just back of it, fronting on Meridian
street, was a livery stable. All these buildings, with a lot of personal
propertj^ contained in them at the time, were totally destroyed and the
loss fell entirely upon the owners, as no insurance companies were at
that time represented in .Vnderson. The entire population turned out
and did all that could be done to check the ravages of the flames, but the
facilities for fire fighting were of the most primitive character and all
their efforts were without avail. Three men — William R. O'Neil, Seth
Smith and James Kindle — while trying to save their effects were so
seriously affected by inhaling the heated air that they died within a
short time after the fire.
In November, 1866, an old frame livery barn on Main street, between
Ninth and Tenth streets, caught fire about 9 o'clock in the evening
and in a short time was wrapped in flames. The loft was, filled with
hay and straw, which burned furiously, and it was with difficulty that
the horses and vehicles were saved. The United States hotel on the cor-
ner and the Ross house were near the burning building and were in
imminent danger. In fact it looked for a time as though the entire block
was doomed. Anderson had been incorporated as a city only the year
before and no fire department had as yet been organized. No effort
was made to save the burning barn, but Captain W. R. Myers, Major
C. T. Doxey and Joseph Piekard organized the citizens into a "bucket
brigade" and directed a systematic work in saving the adjacent build-
ings. Many of the women brought out their bedclothes, which were
saturated with water and spread over the roofs. Piekard 's hands and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 323
face were so badly burned during liis figlit against this fire that he car-
ried the scars throufrh life. Tiirough the heroic efforts of the people
a heavy property loss was averted.
On December 14, 1871, the plant of the Anderson Foundry and Ma-
chine A\ orks was destroyed by tire, but the plant was in such an isolated
I)Osition that no danger to other buildings was feared. The works were
soon rebuilt on a larger scale than before the fire.
One of the most disastrous fii'es in Anderson started al;out midnight
on ]May 17, 1875, near the middle of tlie lilock on the west side of the
public square and spread in ])oth directions. Tlie Odd Fellows' build-
ing, at the southwest corner of Ninth and Meridian streets, was the only
really substantial building- on that side of the square, the others being
cheap frame structures that furnished excellent food for the flames. An
alarm was sounded, tlie peoide turned outand in a short time the bucket
brigade was in action. A line was formed from the pulilic well to the
blazing buildings and buckets of water were passed from hand to hand
as rapidly as they could be filled at the pump. Those not thus engaged
were busy in the effort to save some of the goods in the various mer-
cantile houses along the street. Among those who suffered the lieaviest
losses by this conflagration were : Nichol, King & ^Makepeace, hardware
dealers on the ground floor of the Odd Ft Hows' building; the Anderson
Democrat, on the second floor of the same building; the law offices of
Calvin D. Thompson and Sansberry & Goodykoontz, on the same floor
as the Democrat office; Fdiss' confectionery store; the shoe stores of
L. ]M. Cox and Ryan & Broadbeck; the American Express Company,
and the bakery of George Daich. The Dunocrat lost not only the ma-
terials of the printing office, but also the files of the paper and other
valuable propertj'.
A smart lireeze was blowing at the time and this carried sparks
and embers some distance to the southwest, threatening the destiiiction
of that section of the city. Carpets were quickly torn from the floors,
bedclothing was taken from the beds, and the.se were saturated with
water and spread over the i-oofs, thus preventing the spread of the
flames. Holes were burned in many of the quilts and carpets, liut the
homes were saved.
The Doxey Opera House on Meridian street, one of the most impos-
ine private edifices in Anderson at that time, was totally destroyed by
fire on the night of Novemlier 14. 1884. It is thouglit that the fire orig-
inated in the rear part of Hurst's livery stable, immediately south of
the theater. Anderson was without an adequate fire department and a
telegram was sent to Indianapolis asking for assistance. The authorities
of that city started an engine and a supply of hose on a special train
for Anderson and had reached Brightwood, when a second message
was sent countermanding the request, the fire by that time having gained
sucli headway that no assistance would be of any benefit. A theatrical
company had .iust concluded a performance when the fire was discovered
and the members of this company rendered efficient service in saving
some of the interior furnishings, though practically everything con-
nected with the theater perished in the flames.
Directly after the fire L. J. Burr, H. J. Bronnenberg and others
324 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
joined with j\Iajor Doxey in rebuilding the opera house, a stock com-
pany being formed for tlie purpose, with ilajor Doxey at the head.
Subsequently he purchased tlie stock of his associates and became the
sole proprietor of the theater. Although the second building was not
quite as elaborate as the former one, it was one of the finest opera houses
in central Indiana, outside of Indianapolis. It was opened to the pub-
lic on the evening of November IS, 1885, and for more than eight years
was Anderson's chief place of amusement. On the night of ilarch 30,
1893, the second building was burned. The origin of the lire on this
occasion is not definitely known, but it was thought to have been started
by a gas jet which was left burning near some of the draperies of the
stage. With the loss of this building Major Doxey gave up the idea of
providing a theater for the people of Anderson. He according!}- sold
the property to Louis Loeb and A. J. Brunt, who rebuilt it as a busi-
ness block.
On the morning of July 13, 1886, tire broke out in a row of wooden
buildings at the corner of Ninth and ileridian streets at an earlj- hour,
before many people were on the streets. The fire was first discovered m
the grocery of Irey brothers by a night watchman named Wolf, who im-
mediately gave the alarm. Before the tire could be checked the gro-
cery in which it started, the millinery store of Miss Carrie Dodd, the
meat market belonging to the Rhoads brothers, Jlinor Barett's shoe
store, the United States express office, and the agricultural warehouse
of B. P. Alford were totally destroyed. It is said that about two weeks
before the fire a pile of shavings saturated with kerosene was found in
the basement under the grocery and many believe the fire to have been
of incendiary origin. The buildings burned were the property of Hes-
ter Neely. who rebuilt some of them and others were rebuilt under leases.
The old Adams block at the corner of Eighth and Main streets, one
of the landmarks of Anderson, was completely destroj'ed by fire on the
morning of August 16, 1888. It was built by Robert Adams in 1867-
68 and at the time of its erection was one of the best business blocks in
the city. The fire was discovered about four o'clock in the morning
by Randle Biddle, a night watchman, who immediately turned in an
alarm. Anderson now had a fire department, but for some reason it
was slow in responding on this occasion, and when it arrived the fire
was beyond control. Attention was therefore turned to saving the ad-
joining buildings, in which the department was successful. A dry
goods store on the ground floor, the offices of Judge Lake and "William
Roach and the rooms occupied by Benjamin Roadcap, Joseph Carr and
Samuel Sykes on the second floor, and the cigar factory of Purcell &
Ehli on the third floor suffered practically a total loss. There were also
a grocery and barber shop on the ground floor that were considerably
damaged.
Captain Frederick Tykle, of Middletown, the owner of the building
at the time of the fire, offered the property to his son-in-law, John H.
Terhune, if he would erect a building upon the site. The offer was
accepted and Mr. Terhune built the When block, which was destroyed
by an explosion of natural gas some years later, and the Phoenix block
was then erected upon the corner. It is still standing.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 325
The burning of the Boring-IIannah block, on the north side of the
public square in Anderson, December 7, 1890, is of historic interest,
because the Daily Bulletin office occupied the entire second floor of the
building. James W. Knight, one of the owners of the paper, was sleep-
ing in the building and gave the alarm. The fire originated in the base-
ment in the bakery of William Williams, and was started by a burning
gas jet. Mr. Knight, knowing that two young men employed by Wil-
liams roomed on the main floor, aroused them just in the nick of time
to save their lives. The greatest loss fell upon the owners of the build-
ing, R. H. Hannah, of Alexandria, and James W. Sansberry, of An-
derson, the Bulletin Com])any, .Mr. Williams and W. S. Shirk, who had
a jewelry store in the block. The newspaper and Mr. Williams were
amply protected by insurance, but the files of the paper can never be
replaced. The publishers showed their enterprise by getting out their
regular daily edition, the publishers of other papers coming to their
assistance by tendering the use of their presses. A new building was
immediately erected upon the site.
About six o'clock on the evening of March 1, 1893, Mrs. J. 0. Hard-
esty heard the crackling of flames, and upon looking out of her window
discovered that the Olympic theater building, only a few feet distant,
was on tire. A. J. Jones, the hardware man, noticed the fire about the
same time and sent in a still alarm. The department responded promptly
and then began one of the most strenuous fights ever experienced by
that organization. At the time the building was occupied by the Colum-
bia Rifles as an armory. Private John Hopper, a member of the com-
pany, afterward reported that he had left the armory only about fifteen
minutes before the fire was discovered by Mrs. Hardesty, but that
before his departure he had turned all gas jets down low enough to be
perfectly safe, as he thought. As the fire originated under the stage,
it was difficult for the department to reach it, and for nearly two hours
they battled with the flames before they were extinguished. The build-
ing was a wreck and the military company lost most of its arras and
equipments.
There have been a number of other fires in Anderson besides the ones
already enumerated. Perhaps the most noted of these were the burn-
ing of Conrad & Mathes' wagon shop in June, 1867; the destruction
of the old hotel known as the "Junction House" on February 23,
1868; the heading factory of C. T. Doxey & Company on Januarj' 3,
1873 ; the Adams heading factory at the junction of the Big Four and
Pan Handle railroads on September 5, 1887 : the Fisher snath and
cradle factory on Februaiy 19, 1888; and the destruction of the Amer-
ican Wire Nail Works on March 13, 1890.
The Junetion House stood at the crossing of the Big Four and Pan
Handle railroads and was a stopping place for all through trains, to
give passengers an opportunity to get something to eat. That was before
the days of dining cars, and the old hotel at the Anderson junction was
well known to the traveling public. H. L. Searle was the proprietor
for several years and uiider Ms management the house won a high repu-
tation. It M'as never renuilt.
The American W^ire Nail Company sustained a heavy loss by the
326 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
burning of the mills, the insurance of $50,000 not being sufficient to
replace the buildings tuid machinery destroyed. In this emergency the
Anderson Board of Trade and some of the liberally inclined citizens
came forward with otters of assistance and in a short time the mills
were rebuilt on a larger scale than before the fire.
Several disastrous fires have occurred in the city of Elwood. On
the morning of September 18, 1872, the large flour and saw mills of
John T. Adair caught tire about three o'clock, or a little before, arid
were entirely consumed, although the "bucket brigade" responded
promptly and worked heroically to save the mills. The total loss was
in the neighborhood of $20)000, all of which fell upon Mr. Adair, as he
carried no insurance. This loss fell so heavily that he never fully re-
gained his former financial status, and it is said to have destroyed in
vsome measure his usefulness as a business man.
Another flour mill in Elwood, operated by Newton House, was de-
stroyed by a boiler explosion about 7 o'clock a. ni., January 4, 1887.
This explosion was caused in a peculiar manner. The evening before,
when the mill was stopped for the day, the engineer, Dell Lyst, drew
off some of the water from the boiler, intending to clean it out the next
morning. That morning he was delayed in getting to his work and
when he arrived at the mill he found that Joseph Redd, the miller, had
already fired up. An examination disclosed the fact that the pumps
were frozen and the two men set to work to thaw them out. A portion
of the flues in the boiler were above the surface of the water and as
soon as the pumps were started the cold water injected into the boiler
struck the heated flues and was instantly converted into steam and the
boiler exploded with terrific force, instantly killing both Lyst and Redd.
George Redd was severely injured, but finally recovered. The mill,
which cost about .$17,000, was a complete wreck, but it was rebuilt on
a smaller scale by Mr. House. Several houses in the immediate vicinity
were more or less damaged by the flying debris. One piece of the boiler
weighting about two hundred pounds was thrown nearly two squares and
crashed through the roof of a blacksmith shop.
Abraham and Simon Sklute, two Hungarians, were arrested as in-
cendiaries at Elwood early in February, 1890, charged with burning
a store in order to get the insurance. The building in which the store
was located belonged to Simon Sklute, who was also the proprietor of
the store, Abraham being merely an employee. The fire occurred about
4 o'clock a. m., February 1, 1890, and as the town had no fire depart-
ment it was a work of some magnitude to prevent a wholesale destruc-
tion of property. After the fire was extinguished the excited populace
repaired to the boarding-house where the Sklutes were stopping threat-
ened to lynch them. The charge was openly made that the two men
had fired the building, but finally wise counsel was heeded by the ex-
cited mob and the law was permitted to take its course. The two men
were arrested on the charge of arson, given a preliminarj' hearing before
"Ward L. Roach, justice of the peace, and were bound over to the cir-
cuit court, where they were acquitted. In the trial the only evidence
against them was that of a man who saw two men, whom he took to be
the defendants, going toward the store about three hours before the fire
(
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 327
was discovered. Although the men were acquitted by a "jury of their
peers," many people about Ehvood still believe them to be guilty.
The large plate glass works at Ehvood were damaged to the extent
of $60,000 by a fire on the night of June 25, 1891, an account of which
is given in Chapter IX. About 8 o'clock a. m., Pebruai'y 12, 1895, the
building known as the Heck block in Elwood was wrecked by an ex-
plosion of natural gas that had accumulated under the floor of the room
occupied by the Elwood Trust Comjiany. The explosion was of such
force that it shattered windows in tiic buildings near by, blew doors off
the hinges and did considerable damage to other property. The Heck
block was a new building, two stories in height, the first floor being used
for business purposes and the second for the city offices. Three men —
Messrs. Graham, Telbs and ^Miller — were in the trust company's room
when the explosion occurred. ^Miller's right leg was broken in three
places, but the other two were only slightly injured. The building was
damaged to the extent of about $2.0(10 and a stock of goods in one of
the rooms was damaged much more, but was covered by insurance. Mr.
Heck rebuilt the block immediately, making it larger and better than
the original.
About midnight on December 6, 1891, the people of Alexandria were
aroused from their slumbers by an alarm of fire, which started in the
jewelry store of Scott Pauly, and before the "bucket brigade" could
check the progress of the flames the buildings between Church and
"Washington streets on Harrison were entirely consumed. The business
houses destroyed by this fire were John AViggins' restaurant, Layne's
shoe store, the store of the Alexandria Fruit Company, John A. Gra-
ham's saloon. Fred Cartwright's grocery, Manlove & Buckley's hard-
ware store, A. Bertsche's harness shop, Patterson's restaurant and the
saloons of John Dwyer, H. P. Williams, George Kelley and Edward
Eccles.
Another disastrous fire in Alexandria occurred on the night of Jan-
\iary 21, 1S93. It started in a frame building on the west side of Har-
rison street, in which were the postoffice and J. C. Clayton's grocery.
The fire was soon communicated to the adjoining buildings, but was
cheeked by tearing away a frame building at the corner of the alley
between Church and "Wood streets, occupied by Rupert & Stockton's
restaurant. A water supplj' was obtained in a novel manner. The in-
tense heat from the burning building melted the snow in the streets
and by building dams across the gutters a supply of water was secured
with which to fight the fire. These two fires led to the establishment
of the Alexandria fire department, an account of which will be found in
Chapter VIII. •
About 11 o'clock p. m., March 31, 1894, the barber shop of Harrell
& Pyle and the express office on the comer of Canal street were wrecked
by an explosion of natural gas. The ruins immediately caught fire and
for a time it looked as though a large part of the city must inevitably
be destroyed. At the time of the explosion seven men were in the bar-
ber shop, waiting for meir Sunday shave, and four of them were burned
to death before they could be rescued. They were Oren Ball. Jesse D.
Harrell, Charles Hoover and Harry Boyer. Hiram Hurd was also
328 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
caught in the fallen timbers, but was rescued after several unsuccessful
efforts had been made.
The Alexandria Plate Glass Works were partially destroyed by fire
on September 17, 1895, the loss in property being considerable. At that
time Major C. T. Doxey was president of the company and with his
characteristic energy he immediately began the work of rebuilding the
plant in a more substantial and elaborate manner than before the iirf.
After it was rebuilt it was one of the largest and best equipped plate
glass factories in Indiana.
Among the minor fires that have occurred in Alexandria may be
mentioned the destruction of the Fred Miller Company's cold storage
building and barns, the burning of the Indianapolis Brewing Com-
pany's cold storage house, and also the office and cold storage plant of
the Terre Haute Brewing Companj', all within a few weeks of each
other in the spring of 1894. The first of these fires was on April 6th,
the second on May 28th and the third on June 4th. As the buildings
were all depositories for beer and other malt liquors, many people at-
tributed the fires to incendiarism.
The little town of Frankton has been especially unfortunate in the
matter of fires. The town was laid out in March, 1853, and one night
in November, 1854, a new store building just erected by Quick & Murphy
was discovered to be on fire. In the building was a large stock of gen-
eral merchandise, the postoffice and the railroad ticket ofSce, and every-
thing was a total loss. It seems that Isaac Sigler and John Ravy had a
short time before that opened a saloon in the little village. Some time
before the fire they had been arrested for tearing up a railroad switch
at Frankton. Sigler gave bail but Ravy, unable to furnish the required
bond, was committed to jail. In the course of the transaction they both
became incen.sed at Quick & ]\Iurphy and it was believed that they had
fired the store to get even. They were arrested and tried for arson,
but the evidence was not sufficient to secure a conviction. Subsequently
both men were convicted of robbing Atherton's store at Frankton. Ravy
made his escape, but afterward fell from a railroad bridge and was
killed, and Sigler died in the penitentiary.
A fire that destroyed a number of buildings in the business section
of Frankton started in William Waples' stable about 5:30 a. m., Octo-
ber 3, 1877, and was thought to have originated through the careless-
ness of some men playing cards in the haymow. Next to Waples' stable
on the south was that of J. W. Phillips, which was soon on fire. From
this stable the flames reached the drug store of John A. Howard and from
there the fire spread to the Dvviggins block, in which were the post-
office and James McLean's grocery. North of the Dwiggins block was
the Suman building, in which were Kimmerling's drug store and the
dry goods store of J. & W. Townsend. Next to this was Hurst Brothers'
hardware store. All these buildings were burned to the ground and
several horses were lost in the burning stables. In one of the buildings
was the Masonic lodge, which lost all its furniture and records. The
Odd Fellows were more fortunate, as they managed to save their effects.
Some plundering was done during the fire, but the people were so intent
on trying to save the tovm that the looters were allowed to go unmo-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 329
lested. Very little breeze was stirring and this probably enabled the
citizens to hold the tire within Iwunds. Had a high wind sprung up
Frankton would doubtless have been 'wiped off the map."
A man named ^McDonald began the erection of a building in Frank-
ton in August, 1S90, and announced his intention of opening a saloon
in the town. Before the building was completed it was destroyed by fire.
As there was no fire about the place, it was the general opinion that the
destruction of the building was due to the work of an incendiary, but
no clue to the identity of the offender was ever obtained.
Summitvillc's first great fire occurred on ilarch 27, 1885, when the
office of Dr. Judd Swallow and the stores of R. A. Menefee & Company
and Aquilla Moore were totally destroyed, together with all their
contents. The fire was first discovered in the east end of Moore's store
about 3 o'clock a. m. and in a short time it was communicated to the
other buildings. The people turned out and rendered all the assistance
possible, but within an hour the three buildings were in ashes. By
good management the flames were confined to them and the adjoining
buildings were saved. The total loss was about $7,000, part of which
was covered by insurance.
A little more than four years later — August 23, 1889 — a fire started
in the hardware store of E. B. Vinson, at Summitville, about 11 o'clock
p. ra. and within a short time the building was a mass of flames. Adjoin-
ing Vinson's establishment was the millinery store of Marj' E. Wertz,
which was also destroyed, and considerable damage was done to the
Vinson residence. The loss in this fire was about $4,000, but was par-
tiall.v covered by insui-ance.
Several destructive storms have visited Madison county at various
periods of its historj'. The first of which there is any account was in
1828, when a tornado struck the county about three and a half miles
south of Anderson. As it passed through the woods it left a path
about half a mile in width, in which but few trees remained standing.
This path was long known among the settlers as the "Fallen Timber."
As the country- was not then thickly settled, no damage of consequence
was done to property or person.
In 1843 a great storm ^egan its destructive work about four miles
northwest of Pendleton, passed eastward through the dense timber tract
known as the "Dismal." then followed the ridge south of Anderson and
spent its force near the present crossing of the Big Four and Pan
Handle railroads. All along the ridge large trees were uprooted and
in many places the little mounds thus formed can still be seen.
Ten years later, June 2, 1853. a violent storm crossed the western
boundary of the county a little south of Perkinsville and followed a
course east and noriheast almost entirely across the county. The sec-
ond story of Daniel Wise"s brick residence was torn away, his barn and
other outbuildings were seriou-sly damaged, and alx)ut two miles further
north a house, in which Clarkson Snyder, James Cusack and a boy had
taken shelter, was blown down and the inmates were all badl.v hurt.
Just south of the present village of Florida some men were at work
upon the grade for the Pan Handle railroad when they saw the storm
coming and took shelter in a log house. They had been inside but a few
330 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
minutes, when the house was demolished by the wind, but none of the
men was injured. One man who caught hold of a sapling, to prevent
his being blown away, was somewhat bruised, but his injuries were not
serious.
The town of Cicero, Hamilton county, was almost completely
destroyed by a storm on June 14, 1880. After wrecking that town the
tornado passed on eastward, entering Madison county near Perkins-
ville, and following the general direction of the storm of 1853. Again
the Daniel Wise residence was unroofed and otherwise damaged and
again it was rebuilt by Mr. Wise's widow. Trees were blown down,
fences scattered to the four winds and growing crops were seriously
damaged. It is said that bolts of dry goods and other things from the
stores at Cicero were afterward found in the path of the storm some
distance from the town whence they were taken.
A storm closely resembling* a western cyclone swept over the north-
ern portion of the county on Jlay 12, 1886, passing about midway between
Frankton and Elwood. James Legg's residence was completely
wrecked and his son, John Legg, was killed. This is the first recorded
instance of any one being killed by a storm in Madison county. I\Irs.
Legg suffered a broken arm and a broken leg, and other members of the
family were less seriously injured. On the old Caleb Canaday farm,
near Legg's, the house and bam were destroyed and everywhere in the
track of the storm the ground was covered with uprooted trees, scat-
tered fences and other debris.
On August 17, 1888, a severe wind and hail storm passed over parts
of Monroe and Richland to\TOships, leaving devastation upon a strip of
country about five miles in width and extending as far eastward as the
Delaware county line. Trees were torn up by the roots, fences and out-
buildings were scattered by the hurricane, and the hailstones, which
were both abundant and unusually large, beat the crops into the ground.
Several instances of small animals being killed by the hail were reported.
A small log house occupied by a Mrs. Hupp and her family was literally
blow to the four winds, some of the logs being carried to a consider-
able distance. One of the boys was hurt on the head by a piece of
falling timber, but recovered in a short time. The other members of the
family escaped without serious injury.
Probably the most destructive storm ever experienced by the people
of Madison count}' was the cyclone that passed over the southern por-
tion on June 25, 1902. This storm covered a large part of central
Indiana, damages being reported from Montgomery, Boone, Hamilton,
Marion, Hancock, Madison, Henrj', Fayette and Wayne counties.
Telegraph wires were torn down and traffic on the interurban lines west
of Anderson was suspended. In Madison county the ravages of the
stonn were greatest in the vicinity of Pendleton, Ingalls and IMarkle-
ville. At Pendleton the Taylor glass factorj' was unroofed, the build-
ings of the Star ^Manufacturing Company and the American Window
Glass Company were considerably damaged, the loss on these three con-
cerns amounting to over $10,000. The Guy schoolhouse near the town
was partially destroyed. On the Henry Coburn farm, near Pendleton,
James Van Hoy sought shelter in the bam when the storm came up.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
331
A few minutes later the barn was blown down and he was killed.
Barns were also blown down on the farms of Lon Pritchard, John Kip-
hart, Oliver Burdette, Arthur Jacobs, Robert Kirkbaum and Ezra Watts.
George Phipps' saw-mill was, wrecked and the residences of Abraham
Umble, George Williamson and Edward Haines were badly damaged.
At Ingalls the Wagner Window Glass Company's buildings were
partially destroyed, a portion of the roof of Kinley's hotel was carried
away, windows were blown in, out-buildings were swept away by the
wind and other damage was done to shade trees and growing crops.
The road from Pendleton to Ingalls was so filled with debris that in
places it was almost impassable.
In the neighborhood of ^Markleville the storm was especially severe.
Bams belonging to Frank, Isaac and Cornelius Mauzy were torn down,
the fences and crops on their farms were almost entirely destroyed and
trees were uprooted, sometimes being carried for some distance by the
Ninth Street BRrocE, Anderson, Flood op 1913
wind. The Morris McDaniel residence was badly damaged and the
barns on the farms of Amos Williams, John McCullougU and John
Foster were completely wrecked. On the 26th hundreds of sight-seers
visited the stricken districts to look upon the ruins wrought by the
cyclone. There have been other storms besides those above enumerated,
but none has ever compared in violence with the great cyclone of 1902.
Old settlers still tell of the great flood of 1847, which washed away
the first bridge over the Wliite river at Anderson, near where Norton's
brewery now stands. This bridge was built by John and Hugh Rogers,
who received final payment of $300 for the work in September, 1846.
The flood that carried it away was in January, 1847. Before the erec-
tion of that bridge a ferrj' was maintained at that point, and after the
flood the old ferry-boat was again called into requisition and was kept
in service until in 1863, when a new l)ridge was built. The destruction
332 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of the bridge was not the only damage done by the flood of 1847, but it
was the most notable and best remembered ease of destruction.
The summer of 1875 was a "wet season." As expressed in the old
negro ballad :
"It rained forty days and it rained forty nights,
And it rained on the other side of Jordan."
During the month of July the ground was too wet for the greater
part of the time to cultivate and the fields were overrun with weeds.
About the first of August the White river broke over its banks and
flooded all the lowlands lying along its course. Much of the land in
Madison county had not then been drained and great damage was done
by the smaller streams. The low grounds along the river and Green's
branch in what is now the northwestern part of Anderson were com-
pletely inundated and for several days the road leading north from
Anderson was impassable on account of the high water. At all hours
of the day sheaves, or whole shocks, of wheat could be seen floating down
the river from the fields whence they had been carried by the flood.
Fences were washed away and much loss to the farmers was caused by
the drowning of live stock. In Anderson special prayer meetings were
held to pray for the rains to cease.
Another great flood occurred in the year 1884. The bridge that
was erected in 1863 was carried away by the raging waters. At that
time the contractors, ilcCormack & Sweeney, were engaged in the
erection of the jMadison county courthouse and soon after the flood
they were awarded a contract for the erection of stone abutments for
a new bridge, the iron work being done by the Morrison Bridge Com-
pany. Again the farmers along the river suffered heavy loss by the
destruction of their crops, and even the lowlands along the smaller
streams were under water.
Rain began falling on the evening of March 24, 1904, and for twenty-
four hours there was a steady downpour. On the 25th the "White river
rose rapidly and Green's branch broke all previous records for high
water. About nine o'clock that evening the first appeals for help came
from some of the inhabitants of Hazelwood, a suburb of Anderson,
where a number of dwellings had been flooded by the latter stream.
Park Place, on the opposite side of the river from the main portion of
Anderson, was also inundated. On Saturday morning, the 26th Jlayor
Forkner issued a proclamation calling on the citizens for aid, and the
township trustee furnished a number of teams and boats for the removal
of the people and their effects from the flooded districts. Along Green's
branch, in the western part of the city, many people were rendered
temporarily homeless by the flood. The electric light plant was dam-
aged, the northern part of Maplewood cemetery was under water and
the works of the Buckeye Manufacturing Company were completely
surrounded by water.
On Sunday, the 27th, a meeting wfis held to devise some means of
taking care of the flood sufferers. A finance committee, consisting of
Mayor Forkner, J. W. Carr, Alexander P. McKee, H. J. Stein, George
HISTOEY OF MADISON COUNTY 333
Nichol, Joseph Henniiigs, George Wlifeloek, Jerome Brown and Rufus
Williams, was appointed to solicit and receive contributions. At that
meeting ^353 were collected and this amount was materially increased
the next day. The Associated Charities, through their finance com-
mittee and the general secretary, ^liss Doan, rendered valuable assist-
ance in caring tor the homeless people. By IMonday the daiiger was
past and the river began falling, but the work of assistance was kept
up for several days, until the unfortunate flood victims were made as
comfortalile as circumstances would permit.
Pipe creek and Duck creek both broke their bounds and considerable
damage was done by these streams, especiallj' in the vicinity of Alex-
andria and Elwood, though the people of Anderson and the immediate
environments were the greatest sufferers. Rural mail service was aban-
doned until after the waters had subsided, and was renewed with diffi-
culty, owing to the destruction of a number of bridges and washouts in
Flood Scene, 1913
the gravel roads. A special session of the county commissioners was
called to take action with regard to repair of highways and bridges.
Altogether the damage done by the flood ran into thousands of dollars.
The great flood of 1913 will long be remembered on account of the
great damage done over all the central portion of the country, Ohio
and Indiana being the states to undergo the greatest disaster. On
March 23, 1913, about three inches of water fell in central Indiana.
Such a rainfall was unprecedented and the natural channels of the
streams were not equal to the emergency ; hence, on the morning of the
24th a large part of ^ladison county was under water. North Anderson
was cut off from the city by the cemetery road. Green's branch had
again inundated the lowlands lying along its course, the Twelfth
street bridge and the li'ig Four railroad bridge were swept away, about
one-half of Ilazelwood was flooded and the people living there had
to seek safety in flight ; trains im all the railroads were delayed, some
634: HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of them being several hours behind time; Duek creek at Ehvood was the
highest ever known and many residents of that city had to be taken
from their homes in boats; Pipe creek at Alexandria and P^all creek at
Pendleton set new high-water marks and did a great deal of damage
along their courses, and again the rural mail service was suspended.
At Anderson the electric light plant was damaged slightly, but
managed to keep part of the machinery in working order, so that the
city was not thrown into utter darkness. The sewers backed up into
the basement of the Sefton Manufacturing Company and inflicted con-
siderable damage on the stock stored there. Views taken from the
Schalk mills, looking north, and from the foot of Main street, looking
toward the cemetery, show the lowlands between Anderson and North
Anderson as one vast sheet of water. Gravel roads all over the county
were washed out in places and the total property loss in the county
was over $100,000. Traffic on the iuterurban lines was suspended on
account of the danger from wash-outs. In such cases there are always
some persons who act the part of harpies and prey on the unfortunate.
Petty thieves and plunderers made their appearance in Anderson and
the mayor and police board asked Governor Ralston fo send militia to
protect the property of those who had been driven from their homes
by the flood. The governor responded by ordering Captain Wells'
company to act as a patrol guard at Anderson.
About midnight of the 2'lth the water burst over the fair ground
levee and Park Place was soon flooded. In the haste to escape from the
rapid rising waters families became separated and the anxiety of moth-
ers over the absence of some child, who had possibly been swept away
by the deluge, was heart-rending. Fortunately, however, no lives were
lost and the separated families were in time reunited. The water-
works were temporarily injured and as a precaution against fire the
moving picture shows were closed.
Then came the work of relief. On the 27th a meeting was held at
the court-room for the purpose of determining upon some plan of sys-
tematic aid to the homeless. A finance committee, consisting of J. J.
Netterville, John L. Forkner and T. J. Niehol, was appointed and
$3,500 were subscribed. The city council met and appropriated $1,000'
to the relief fund, and by the last day of the month the popular sub-
scriptions had reached nearly $6,000. The finance committee of the
Associated Charities also rendered valuable assistance. Trades unions
contributed to their members, especially the Park Place victims, the
Gospel Trumpet Company cared for over 600 homeless and sent out
several tons of coal to those in need of fuel, the Central Christian church
was provided with cots and bedding by the good women belonging to
the congregation and the court-room was also throwm open as a shelter
for the unfortunates.
The water began falling on the 27th and the danger was past, but
the relief work was kept up until all were made at least comparatively
comfortable. It was some time before many of the submerged homes
were habitable. Furniture and carpets were practically ruined and the
floors and walls were so damp that it was a menace to health to try to
live in the houses. It will be a long time before the great flood of 1913
will be forgotten by those who were driven from home by its ravages.
CHAPTER XIX
MISCELLANEOUS HISTORY
Sketches of a Few Typicaxi Pioneers — Levi Brewer — Mention of
Prominent Citizens — James Whitcomb Riley — Samuel Richards
— The Fenian Raid — Express Robbery and the Fallibility op
CmCUMSTANTIAI. EVIDENCE MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE OP A Ped-
dleb Recalled — Reception to Company L — Chronology of thb
County — Census — List of County Officers.
It is a common occurrence when an old resident dies, for the news-
papers to publish an obituary under the headline "Another Pioneer
Gone." As a matter of fact there are very few left who can claim the
distinction of being pioneers. There are, and doubtless always will be,
pioneers in industry, scientific or mechanical development and other
lines of human endeavor. Likewise there are and always will be many
old settlers, by reason of their having lived for a long period in a given
community, but the real pioneers — those who conquered the primeval
wilderness and dwelt in the "cabin in the clearing" — have about passed
into ancient history. Parton describes the pioneers as a '*' little band,
clad in leathern aprons and armed with broadaxes, which marches
boldly in advance of the main bodj' and blazes out the route that civili-
zation is to follow." The pioneers who came to central Indiana in the
early part of the last century are now exceedingly rare. Here and
there is one who has approached near to the century mark that can
really be classed as a pioneer, but the men who wore the "'leathern
aprons and swung the broadaxes" in Madison county, to blaze out the
route for the present generation, have nearly all passed to their long
home.
A true type of the pioneer, who lived, labored, loved and enjoyed
the simple pastimes of early days, is Mrs. Emma Shinkle, a resident
of North Anderson, who has passed the age of four score years and ten,
and who has been a resident of Madison county all her life. She is a
daughter of William Curtis, who was appointed agent for Madison
county when Anderson was made the county seat in 1827, and was a
little girl of some seven or eight years when that appointment was
made, having been bom in 1820, and she has lived to see Madison county
develop from a wild unbroken tract of forest and swamp land into
one of the most populous and prosperous counties of Indiana. In her
youth the opportunities to acquire the accomplishments of the young
335
3:{C
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
rilll.ir AM) E.MMA SjnXKl.E, I'lONEERS
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 337
ladies of the present day were wanting, but she mastered the art of
making and caring for a home. As a young woman she could spin her
"six cuts" a day and she still has in her possession the old loom upon
which she has woven rag cai-pets enough to cover many of the parlor
floors of Madison county. In 1836 she was married on Killbuck creek to
Philip Shinkle and they began housekeeping in the customary log cabin
of that period, but by their thrift and industry the young couple pros-
pered and the log house soon gave way to a residence of a better char-
acter. Although she has lived far beyond the average period allotted to
members of the human family, Mrs. Shinkle is in full possession of her
mental faculties, and physically is as spry as many a woman thirty years
her junior. From the storehouse of her memory she can relate many
an interesting inci •>nt that occurred in Madison county before many
of its present inhak..tants were born. She is indeed a pioneer, and is
now in the ninety-fourth year of her age.
In Van Buren township, near Summitville, lives another pioneer
in the person of Mary E. Beck, widow of the late John Beck and grand-
daughter of General Daniel Morgan of Revolutionary fame. Her illus-
trious grandfather was bom in New Jersey in 1736. Going to Virginia
at the age of seventeen, he worked at various occupations until he became
the owner of a team and wagon and in 1755 joined General Braddock's
expedition as a teamster. The following spring, while engaged in
hauling supplies to troops along the Virginia frontier, a British officer
became so arrogant and abusive that Morgan struck him with the flat
of his sword. For this offense it was ordered that he receive five hun-
dred lashes on the bare back. This so incensed Morgan against the
British that when the battle of Lexington was fought in April, 1775,
he raised a company of Virginia riflemen and was the first officer to
report with his command at Boston. At Washington's request he was
commissioned colonel of the Eleventh Virginia Regiment and afterward
rose to the rank of major-general. Every school boy is familiar with
the story of Morgan 's victory at the battle of Cowpens and his masterly
retreat before the superior forces of Cornwallis. General Morgan died
at Winchester, Virginia, July 6, 1802, but before his death received a
large tract of land in North Carolina for his services in the Revolution.
About 1759 he married Abigail Bailey, a woman of great force of char-
acter, and their only daughter, Elizabeth Morgan, became the wife
Henry R. Shelton. ]Mrs. l\Iary E. Beck is the third daughter of this
union. She was born in 1823, the year Jladison county was organized,
and is the only living granddaughter of a Revolutionary general. She
has been a resident of the county for many years.
The death of Edward P. Vernon, who recently died in Fall Creek
township, could have been appropriately chronicled under the head-
line referred to at the opening of this chapter. He was born on Novem-
ber 10. 1816; was a gi-eat-grandson of Aaron Vernon, who came over
with William Penn in 1682 ; a grandson of Edward Vernon, and a son
of Abram Vernon, who came to Indiana in 1836 and the next year set-
tled in iladison counr>'. Abram Vernon was born on March 5, 1774,
married Mary Bailey in ISOl, and died in the Fall creek settlement on
338 HISTORY OF JVIADISON COUNTY
July 3, 1857, leaving four children. Edward was the only sou ; Hanuah
married Silas Hayes ; Rebecca became the wife of David Catreu, and
Esther married Robert Parry, of Richmond, Indiana. Edward P.
Vernon was in his twentieth year when he came with his parents to
Indiana in 1836. On October 15, 1840, he manned Hannah Rogers, who
died leaving four children — Elizabeth R., Abner, Mary and Sarah Ann ;
and on January 18, 1855, Mr. Vernon married Ruthanna Davis, by
whom he had nine children. Shortly after his first marriage Mr. Ver-
non became the owner of the farm entered by John Rogers, the first
white settler in Madison county. The' old cabin built by Rogers was
weatherboarded and used as a workshop for many years by Mr. Veruon.
When he came to Lladison county there were no gravel roads and but
few highways of any kind. During the three-quarters of a century he
lived in the county he saw the swamp lauds reclaimed by drainage, a
splendid system of highways developed, a good public school system
built up, the advent of the railroad, the telegraph and the telephone,
the introduction of the rural free mail delivery and the electric railroad.
He saw the old reaping hook and the cradle give way to the twine binder,
the tallow candle to the electric light, and the lumbering ox-wagon to
the automobile. Edward P. Vernon was a pioneer. Born and brought
up as a Friend or Quaker, all his life he adhered to the tenets of that
faith. In 1911 there was a reunion of the Vernon family at his place
in Fall Creek township. At that time he was the oldest living repre-
sentative of his family and his death occurred a few months later.
In the little town of Chesterfield lives another old-timer in the per-
son of Henry Bronnenberg, a son of one of the first settlers of Union
township. Although past ninety years of age, Mr. Bronnenberg thinks
nothing of making the long trip to Florida every fall and returning to
his home at Chesterfield in the spring. In his younger days he was a
great lover of horses and has owned some of the fastest running horses
ever brought to Madison county. Like Mr. Vernon, he has seen Madison
county expand from a wilderness to a community possessing all the
comforts and luxuries of modern civilization.
Levi Brewer, for many years a resident of Lafayette township, was
a native of Madison county, where he was born on January 6, 1825,
when the county was but two years old. In 1846 he enUsted as a private
in Captain Wallace's company for service in the war with Mexico and
was in the battle of Chapultepec and the capture of the City of Mexico.
He was also in the Civil war as a member of Company H, Ninety-ninth
Indiana Infantry, and was therefore a veteran of two wars. Levi
Brewer was a fine specimen of the hardy, unlettered frontiersman ;
brought up in the wilderness, amid wild beasts and without an opportu-
nity to acquire an education, it is not surprising that he was compara-
tively illiterate. Yet he never hesitated to "speak his sentiments," no
matter if he did display his ignorance. He knew the word minister as
a synonym for clergyman, but was not aware that it had any other
significance. When he heard that President Andrew Johnson had
appointed Colonel T. N. Stilwell as minister to Venezuela he remarked
that "South America must be devilish hard up for preachin'."
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
339
Levi Brewer
340 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
On one occasion Levi attended camp meeting at the Holston camp
grounds, in Richland township. A preacher named McKeg was "Shak-
ing his brimstone wallet over the heads of his congregation," as Eggles-
ton expresses it. Picturing an imaginary sinner, steeped in vice and
crime, the preacher started in to consign him to everlasting punishment.
Brewer came in soon after the beginning of the sermon, and being unable
to find a seat, stood with his arms folded listening to the excoriation by
the minister. When Brother McKeg had finished and sat down, Levi,
forgetting his surroundings, drew a long breath and exclaimed to nobody
in particular: "Well, I — God, I guess they'll hang him." While some
of the good church members were monentarily shocked at this expres-
sion, most of them knew Brewer and joined in the laugh that followed.
Levi Brewer stood over six feet in his shoes and was in his younger
days a man of almost herculean strength. He never seemed to care for
the accumulation of wealth, but always managed to secure enough to
eat and wear. After the government granted him a pension of eight
dollars a month for his services in the Mexican war, he had at least four
"good times" a year, for among other frailties he liked a toddy and every
quarter-day, upon receiving his pension, he woula remain in Anderson
until his money was about all gone, when he would go back to work.
Yet he never knowingly wronged a human being, unless it was himself.
He died a few years ago, poor but respected by many who had known
him for many years as one of Madison county's eccentric characters.
Among those who have left their impress upon the history of the
county, perhaps the names of ]\Iilton S. Robinson, Thomas N. Stilwell,
Charles T. Doxey, William R. Myers, Charles L. Henry and Winfield
T. Durbin stand out with greatest prominence.
Milton S. Robinson was born at Versailles, Ripley county, Indiana,
April 20, 1832. He received a common-school education, after which
he read law in the oflRce of his father, and was admitted to the bar before
he had reached his twenty-first birthday. In November, 1851, he
located at Anderson, where he built up a good practice. In 1856 he was
one of the presidential electors on the Republican ticket and made a
thorough canvass of the Eleventh district. In 1861 the legislature
elected him one of the directors of the penitentiary at Michigan City,
but this position he resigned in September, 1861, to enter the army as
lieutenant-colonel of the Forty-seventh Indiana Infantry. When the
Seventy-fifth Regiment was organized he was made colonel and in March,
1865, was made brevet brigadier-general. In 1866 he was elected state
senator for the counties of Madison and Grant ; was elected to Congress
in 1874 and again in 1876, and was recognized as one of the foremost
members of the Madison county bar.
Charles T. Doxey was born in Tippecanoe county, Indiana, Julj' 13,
1841. A few years later his father died and when fourteen years old
the boy persuaded his mother to go to Minnesota. There he worked
on a farm for about a year, giving most of his earnings to his mother,
and later went to Fairbury, Illinois, where he worked for his board
while attending school. In 1861 he was employed in a warehouse in
Anderson and in July of that year entered the volunteer service as first
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 341
sergeant of Company A, Nineteenth Indiana Infantry. Later he was
made second lieutenant, but resigned and became captain of Company
K, Sixteenth Indiana Infantry. At the close of the war he had saved
about $3,000, with which he embarked in the manufacture of staves and
heading. In 1876 he was elected to the state senate. He built the opera
house in Meridian street, Anderson, and after it was destroyed by fire
rebuilt it, and he was one of the directors of the first natural gas com-
pany at Anderson. In many other ways Major Doxey was intimately
associated with the industrial and financial affairs of his adopted city.
He died on April 30, 1898.
Thomas N. Stilwell was for many years a prominent figure in
Anderson. At the time of the Civil war he was active in raising and
^equipping troops, especially the Thirty-fourth and the One Hundred
and Thirtieth Indiana Infantry Regiments, and a camp at Anderson was
named in his honor. In June, 1864, the officere of the One Hundred and
Thirtieth and One Hundred and Thirty-first regiments, while in camp at
Kokomo, Indiana, presented Colonel Stilwell with a fine gold watch as
a token of their appreciation of what he had done for the soldiers. In 1856
Mr. Stilwell was elected to the lower house of the legislature and in 1864
was elected to Congress. Before the expiration of his term in Congress
he was appointed minister to Venezuela by President Johnson. Colonel
Stilwell built the well knovvTi hotel, now the Doxey House, on the corner
of Main and Ninth streets, in Anderson, and he was one of the chief
promoters of the Anderson, Lebanon & St. Louis Railroad, now the Central
Indiana.
William R. Myers, familiarly known to the people of Madison
county as "Cap." Myers, was born in Clinton county, Ohio, June 12,
1836, of Huguenot ancestry. In 1848 his parents settled in Madison
county, where he received a common school education. In 1856 he
started for California, but owing to the filibustering expedition of Gen-
eral Walker passengers from the states were not permitted to cross the
Isthmus of Panama. Young Myers then went to Newton, Iowa, where
he clerked in the postofifiee for a while, and then returned to his home in
Madison county. In 1858 he was elected county surveyor, which marked
the beginning of his political career. He enlisted as a private in the
Forty-seventh Indiana Infantry and by successive promotions came to be
captain of his company. After the war he studied law and in 1870 was
admitted to the bar. In 1878 he was elected to Congress as a Demo-
crat. In 1882 and 1884 he was elected to the office of secretary of state
of Indiana, and in 1892 was again elected to this office, having been
the only man in the history of the state to serve three terms in this
important position. Captain Myers was a prominent Odd Fellow, and
as a campaign orator was considered one of the best vote-getters in the
state. His death occurred on April 18, 1907.
Winheld T. Durbin, capitalist and ex-governor, was born at Law-
rencehurg. Indiana, May 4, 1847. He served as a private in the Union
army during the closing years of the Civil war, then taught school for
a few terms, and in 1^69 wpnt to Indianapolis to become a traveling
salesman for a wholesale drv'-goods house. In 1875 he married Bertha
342 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
McCullough, of Anderson, and in 1879 he became a resident of that city,
where he engaged in the banking business. He was one of the mem-
bers of the first natural gas company of Anderson and at the begin-
ning of the Spanish-American war was commissioned colonel of the
One Hundred and Sixty-tirst Indiana Regiment. In 1900 he was elected
governor of Indiana and served the full term of four years. He was
again the Republican candidate for governor in 1912, when the entire
Democratic ticket was elected. Colonel Durbin is now practically retired
from active business affairs, though he still holds an interest in several
large manufacturing concerns.
Charles L. Henry was born in Hancock county, Indiana, July 1,
1849, a son of George and Leah (Lewis) Henry, the former a native of
Ireland and the latter of Virginia. In 1852 the family removed to Pen-
dleton, where Charles attended school until he was fifteen years old,
■when he entered Asbury (now DePauw) University, at Greencastle,
Indiana, but did not complete the coui-se. In 1870 he began the study
of law with Harvey Craven, of Pendleton, and in 1872 was graduated in
the law department of the Indiana State University. He immediately
formed a partnership with, his old preceptor, which was dissolved by
the election of the senior member of the firm to the circuit bench in
October, 1873. Mr. Henry was then in partnership with Joseph T.
Smith until the latter removed to Kansas in 1877, when the law firm
of Henry & Diven was organized. He was elected state senator in 1880
for the counties of Grant and Madison. In 1894 and again in 1896 he
was elected to Congress. He was one of the incorporators of the Indiana
Union Traction Company in September, 1897, and in recent years has
given most of his attention to his railway interests and other invest-
ments.
John Q. Van Winkle, one of the best known railroad men in the
Middle West, is a Madison county boy. He was born on January 16,
1851, and during his boyhood attended the Anderson public schools.
At the age of ten years he began his railroad career as an employee
of the old Indianapolis, Pittsburg & Cleveland Railroad Company, with
which he held various positions. In 1888 he became superintendent of
the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad, which
position he held until 1892. He was then for about a year the superin-
tendent of the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis, and from
1893 to 1906 was general superintendent of the Cleveland, Columbus,
Cincinnati & St. Louis Railroad. Since 1906 he has held the position of
general manager of the same railway system, commonly called the Big
Four.
Two young men, who afterward became famous, one as a poet and
the other as a painter, were residents of Anderson for a time in the lat-
ter '70s. One was James Whitcomb Riley and the other was Samuel
Richards.
James Whitcomb Riley was born in Greenfield, Indiana, in 1853.
His father was a lawyer who journeyed from one court to another and
on these trips was frequently accompanied by his son. In this way
the boy acquired a taste for roving and as a sign painter he went from
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 343
town to town. Next he joined a theatrical troupe and played in the
smaller cities of the eountrj' for a spell. In the summer of 1877 he
became a reporter on the Anderson Democrat and each week contrib-
uted a poem to its columns. At that time Samuel Richards was running
a photograph gallery in Anderson and illustrated Riley's poems with
engravings carved upon blocks of wood with an ordinai'y pocket knife.
These poems and illustrations were afterward collected and produced
in book form by Dory Biddle, under the title of "Riley's F^rst Poems."
When the "Made in Anderson" exhibit was held in that city in June,
1913, Mr. Riley was a guest of honor and was given a rousing reception
by many of his old friends who remembered his work as a reporter
thirty-six years before.
Samuel Richards was bom at Spencer, Indiana, April 22, 1853, and
was educated in the academy of his native town. He began his busi-
ness career as clerk in a general store, but, having a liking for art, soon
abandoned that calling to study under Theodore Lietz, of Indianapolis,
iinder whose instruction he became a fairly good portrait painter. He
next went to Franklin, Indiana, where he married Louise Parks, daugh-
ter of a Baptist minister, and while there formed the acquaintance of
Mr. Riley, the Hoosier poet. In 1877 he went to Anderson and opened
a photograph gallery, but it is said he paid more attention to the brush
than to the camera. In 188G he went to Europe and spent seven years
in the art schools of Munich. The story of Evangeline, by Longfellow,
possessed a peculiar attraction for the artist, and in 1887 he began
work on the painting of "Evangeline," upon which he worked for the
greater part of two years, when his health failed. He completed the
picture, however, and it was exhibited in various American and Euro-
pean cities. In 1891 the painting was bought by Bela Hubbard for
$6,000 and presented to the Detroit Art Museum. Mr. Richards then
went to Denver, in the hope of recovering his health, and died there on
November 30, 1893. His widow now resides in Anderson.
It may not be generally known that Madison county contributed a
number of soldiers to what was kno^vn as the "Fenian Raid," in 1866,
but such is the case. Several men from Anderson and the immediate
vicinity^ most of whom had served in the Civil war and acquired a
taste for adventure, enlisted in the Fenian cause and participated in
the raid into Canada. They were captured soon after crossing the line
and were held as prisoners until President Johnson interfered in their
behalf. He issued a proclamation against holding American citizens
and the men were brought across to Buffalo, New York, where they
were released. They returned to their homes somewhat crestfallen at
the failure of their expedition. Jeremiah 0 'Sullivan is the only Ander-
.son survivor of that famous "army" and may yet be seen daily upon
the streets of that city.
In the spring of 1899 George Osborne, agent for the United States
Express Company at Elwood, was arrested for the robbery of the office
safe, some $700 having been taken, and the company officials declared
that Osborne was the only .nan who could have done the work. He
was indicted by the grand iury and tlirown into .jail, but was afterward
344 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
admitted to bail pending his trial. About this time Joseph Hollis and
William Murphy were arrested in Henry county for robbing a store
at Middletown on the night of April 4, 1899, and after their conviction
confessed to the robbery of the express office at Elvvood. JMurphy even
offered to go to Anderson to testify in Osborne's behalf, provided he
was guaranteed immunity from arrest. Most people who knew Osborne
were confident of his innocence and were rejoiced at the turn of affairs
that showed their judgment of his character was correct.
In September, 1899, Barney Maynard and others, while working
in a gravel pit on the farm of Jacob Maynard, a short distance east of
the Wesley Chapel, in Richland township, unearthed a human skeleton.
Old settlers recalled the fact that some forty years before that time a
peddler named Smith had mysteriously disappeared in that neighbor-
hood. It was Smith's custom to ship his goods to the nearest point on
the railroad and then hire some farmer to haul him around to the
homes of the settlers. It was also recalled that a family living near the
gravel pit left the country soon after the peddler's disappearance.
Naturally the theory was formed that some of the members of this family
had murdered Smith for his money and buried the body in the gravel
bank, where bones were found forty years afterward.
An incident in Madison county history that deserves more than
passing mention was the reception given by the people of Anderson to
Company L, One Hundred and Sixtieth Indiana Infantry, at the close
of the Spanish- American war. When it was learned that the company
would soon be discharged from service, a meeting was called at the
court-house on the evening of April 5, 1899, by Mayor Dunlap, to make
arrangements for welcoming the "boys" home. Charles L. Henry,
Mayor Dunlap, James Wellington and George Lilly were appointed a
finance committee to solicit funds and arrangements were made for
decorating the buildings. At the meeting it was learned that Major
May Post, Grand Army of the Republic, was taking steps to give the
company a reception, and the members of the post and the citizens
worked together. At a subsequent meeting the following chairmen of
committees were appointed: Arrangements, Dale J. Crittenberger;
reception, M. M. Dunlap ; decoration, Alexander P. McKee ; music, Mrs.
LeeNewsom; banquet, George E. Springer; invitation, B. B. Campbell.
The ladies who took an active part in the preparation of the reception
were Mesdames Louis Loeb, J. L. Forkner, Lafe J. Burr, Lee Newsom,
H. E. Jones, Volney Hunt, John B. Collins, JI. A. Chipman, Henry
Bolinger, L. M. Schwinn, H. J. Stein, and Misses Myrtle Ellis and
Jennie Ross.
The company arrived at Anderson about 1 o'clock p. m., April 27,
1899, and was escorted to the court-house by a procession. Captain
A. I. Makepeace, a veteran of the Civil war, was grand marshal and
his aides were B. B. Campbell, Dr. M. V. Hunt, Captain J. J. Musser
and Robert Schenck. At the circuit court-room Mayor Dunlap delivered
an address of welcome; Charles L. Henry spoke on the Spanish-Ameri-
can war; J. J. Netterville, on the American Soldier; Johii L. Forkner,
on Company L ; V. T. Morgan, on the Soldiers of '61 and '98 ; and Captain
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 345
Burr, Lieutenants Sausser and Collins, and Corporal Pattie gave short
talks.
At the banquet at the Doxey Hotel, Mayor Dunlap acted as toast-
master. The responses were as follows: Company L, Captain Ken-
neth M. Burr; Officers' Call, Lieutenant Collins; Reveille, Lieutenant
Sausser; The Oracle, William Williams; Men's Call, Enoch J. Dobson;
Church Call, Sergeant Towell ; Fatigue Call, Corporal Pattie ; DriU
Call, John Ross; Sick Call, E. il. Inclenrock; Taps, Elmo Kellar and
Louis Radway; Soldiers of 1861 and 1898, F. M. Van Pelt; Anderson
in Porto Rico, Delbert Musser. Lieutenant Sausser brought home with
him a young Cuban — San Donelo — who made a few remarks. He was
afterward employed as coachman by James M. Donnelly and attracted
much attention for a time. Sergeant Lee Newsom, who had charge of
the hospital arrangement for the company, brought a young colored
man, named James Colchen, whom he picked up in Georgia, and who
accompanied the company to the close of its service. The banquet was
enlivened by patriotic airs played by a band at intervals, and the recep-
tion of Company L will linger as a pleasant memory with those who
participated in the ceremonies.
Chronology of the County
Following is a list of the principal events that have occurred in the
history of IMadison county from the time the first white men came to
the region now included in its boundaries:
May, 1801 — Moravian mission established near Anderson.
October 3, 1818 — Treaty of St. Mary's, by which the Delaware
Indians ceded the land now included in Madison county to the United
States.
December 29, 1818 — John Rogers, the first actual white settler,
locates near Pendleton.
November 7, 1820 — E. P. Hollingsworth, the first white child bom
in the county, born near Pendleton.
September, 1821 — Last of the Indians depart from Madison county
for a new home bej'ond the Mississippi.
January 4, 1823 — Governor Hendricks approves the act organizing
Madison county and fixing its boundaries.
November 10, 1823 — The county formally organized at Pendleton.
March, 1824— Murder of the Indians in what is now Adams town-
ship. The murderers were afterward executed.
, 1825 — Indianapolis and Fort Wayne state road surveyed
through Madison county.
March 27, 1827 — Commission appointed by the general assembly
selects the site where Anderson now stands as a location for the perma-
nent county seat.
January 13, 1830 — The town of Pendleton laid out.
January, 1832 — First court-house at Anderson completed and
accepted by the county commissioners.
346 HISTORV OF MADISON COLXTY
April 7, 1834 — Contract for the erection of the first county poor-
house awarded to John Shaul, whose bid was twenty dollars.
, 1834 — First newspaper in the county, the Federal Union,
started at Anderson by T. J. Langdon.
June 3, 1836 — The town of Alexandria laid out.
, 1837 — First Catholic priests visit Anderson.
, 1838 — Work on the Indiana Central canal commenced in
Madison county, but was discontinued a year later.
January 21, 1839 — Anderson incorporated.
November 25, 1839 — Second court-house accepted by the commis-
sioners.
August 15, 1840 — Thomas Carlton, the first foreign-bom citizen,
received his naturalization papers. The first papers were taken out on
July 7, 1839.
February 10, 1841 — First Masonic ladge in the county instituted at
Pendleton.
September 11, 1850 — First Odd Fellows' lodge instituted at
Pendleton.
July 4, 1851 — First train on the Indianapolis & Bellefontaine Eail-
road reaches Anderson.
March 1, 1853 — Elwood (then called Quincy) laid out.
June 9, 1853 — Anderson incorporated a second time.
June 20, 1853 — First telegraph line reaches Anderson.
July 4, 1855 — First train on the Pan Handle Railroad reaches Ander-
son.
March 3, 1856— The town of Frankton laid out.
March 11, 1858 — Chesterfield incorporated.
, 1858 — First turapike road in the county began, from Ander-
son to Alexandria.
December 25, 1858 — First anti-saloon crusade in Anderson. Liquor
poured out in the streets by the mob.
April 17, 1861 — First company of volunteers from Madison county
tendered the governor for service in the Civil war. This company after-
ward became Company E, Eiglith Indiana Infantry.
November 1, 1862 — First county medical society organized.
August 28, 1865 — The citizens of Anderson vote in favor of incor-
porating as a eity.
November 1, 1867 — Milton White hanged for the murder of Daniel
Hoppis. This was the last legal execution in the county.
April 17, 1873 — Ground broken at Anderson for the Anderson,
Lebanon & St. Louis Railroad (now the Central Indiana).
July 5, 1876 — First meeting of the town board of Alexandria after
the town was incorporated.
July, 1876 — First city directory of Anderson, written with a pen
by Eli P. Brown and called the "Centennial Census."
December 10, 1880 — iladison county court-house destroyed by fire
and many of the valuable records lost.
August 17, 1882 — Coi'ner-stone of the present court-house laid with
appropriate ceremonies.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 347
Au^st 13, 1886 — Anderson's volunteer fire department organized.
March 27, 1887 — First gas well in Madison county "comes in" near
Alexandria.
March 31, 1887 — First gas well at Anderson.
September 6, 1888 — First street ear (drawn by mules) in the city of
Anderson.
June 9, 1891 — First city officers of Elwood elected.
March 12, 1892 — First electric car in Madison county makes its
appearance upon the streets of Anderson.
April 1, 1892 — Elwood fire department organized.
January, 1893 — The town of Lapel incorporated.
May 1, 1896 — First election of town officers in Ingalls.
For a number of years John L. Forkner has kept a diary of events,
which has been published in some of the Anderson newspapers at the
close of the year. The following events have been taken from these pub-
lished lists since 1897 :
1897
January 2 — Gas pumping station at Frankton explodes and does
considerable damage.
January 16 — Part of the North Anderson glass works destroyed by
a cyclone.
PVbruary 12 — W. W. Barton's packing house at Alexandria destroyed
by fire.
March 4 — John Evans, of Elwood, has his arm blown off by a can-
non while celebrating the inauguration of President McKinley.
]Mareh 15 — Mrs. Harmon Wilkie makes application to be admitted to
the Madison county bar — the first application from a woman in the
county. She was later admitted.
April 20 — First oil well in the county opened on the Nimrod Carver
farm at Alexandria.
April 21 — Grand Commandery, Indiana Knights Templar, meets in
Anderson.
April 23 — James H. Snell, the sheriff who hanged Milton White,
died in Anderson.
July 2 — Cold storage plant at Plhvood burned.
September 3 — Union Traction ('(nnpany organized at Anderson.
1898
January 8 — Big Four freight train held up by robbers near Ander-
son.
January 25 — Mrs. Seneca Chambers burned to death by an explo-
sion of petroleum in Richland township.
February 22 — Richland Lake, ex-judge of the court of common
pleas court, died at Anderson.
]\rarch 14 — The three-story building occupied as a hotel and bar
by Gus Quertermout destroyed by a gas explosion.
April 26 — Company L, One hundred and Sixtieth Indiana Infantry,
348 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
left Anderson for the Spanisli-Anierican war and was escorted to the
train by a large concourse of citizens.
April 30 — ]\Iajor Charles T. Doxey, a veteran of the Civil war and
prominent capitalist of Anderson, died at his home in that city.
May 11 — H. C. Crowell, while watching workmen engaged in blow-
ing stumps from the right of way of the interurban railway, near Sum-
mitville, was accidentally killed.
August 1 — N. W. Klepfer, postmaster at Lapel, found dead in his
bed — supposed to have been due to heart trouble.
August 7 — William R. West, ex-judge of the common pleas court,
died at Anderson.
November 14 — Death of Captain L. D. McCallister, captain of
of Company K, Eighth Indiana Infantry, in the Civil war.
1899
January 9 — George Welker, chief of the Anderson police force, died.
January 20 — Hayes & Crider's planing mill at Alexandria destroyed
by fire.
January 28 — Norton's brewery at Anderson burned.
April 11 — The boilers in Lewis & Fatic's elevators at Markleville
exploded, doing considerable damage.
April 18 — E. H. Peters, former county commissioner, had his arms
blown off while blasting out stumps on his farm in Boone township.
May 5 — Citizens of Elwood gave a reception to the members of
Company L, One Hundred and Sixtieth Indiana Infantry.
May 27 — First interurban car runs into Elwood.
September 9 — Colonel Winfield T. Durbin presented with a sword
by members of the One Hundred and Sixty-first Regiment, which he
commanded in the Spanish-American war.
October 6 — Death of B. F. Alford, the first foundryman who made
the first castings in Anderson, which were also the first made in Madi-
son county.
December 14 — William Morris, engineer at the Weatherall rolling
mill, Frankton. killed.
December 25 — Hunter block at Elwood burned, resulting in the
death of Benjamin Jordan.
1900
January 1 — Corner-stone of the Methodist Episcopal church, corner
of Eleventh and Jackson streets, Andereon, laid.
February 7 — 0. M. Cook, marshal of the town of Pendleton, shot and
killed Joel Richardson, while the latter was resisting arrest.
April 10 — Warren Copper, last city marshal of Anderson, died.
May 8 — First private newspaper telegraph service in the county
established by the Anderson Daily Bulletin.
May 23 — Oscar Wynn Camp, Spanish War Veterans, organized at
Anderson.
May 28 — ^\\'^illiani Fulton, ex-city treasurer, died at Anderson.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 349
June 30 — Shoemaker's warehouse at Frankton burned.
July 14 — Mrs. Caroline Ililligoss, a prominent lecturer of Anderson,
died.
July 18 — First interurban car runs into Chesterfield.
July 26- — John Zeublin, formerly of Pendleton, died on the train.
He was an expert telegraph operator and was one of the first to read by
sound.
August 19 — Kelly Ax Works, at Alexandria, destroyed by fire.
August 29 — Death of J. H. Lewis, formerly editor of the Anderson
Herald.
September 4 — First fair on the new fair grounds on East Eighth
street, Anderson, opens.
September 17 — Fred Littlefield and Clarissa Thompson killed in a
railroad collision at Alexandria.
September 29 — Elijah Radebaugh, a well known railroad engineer,
killed near Anderson.
October 30 — Dr. Pryor Rigdon, for whom the village of Rigdon was
named, died at his home there.
December 2 — Central Christian church at the corner of Tenth and
Jackson streets, Anderson, dedicated.
December 4r — John Ellis, member of Company L, One Hundred and
Sixtieth Indiana Infantry, died at Anderson.
December 6 — Anderson lodge of Elks dedicated their new home at
the corner of j\Iain and Eleventh streets.
December 26 — Death of S. E. Young, a prominent banker, miller
and grain dealer, of Alexandria.
1901
January 3 — First interurban car on the Union Traction Company's
lines run from Anderson to Indianapolis — Hon. Charles L. Henry in
charge.
January 5 — John Critz, an engineer on the Michigan division of
the Big Four, killed in a wreck at North Anderson.
January 6 — Death of Orover Allen, eight years old and weighing
250 pounds. He was known as the Madison county fat boy.
January 18 — W. J. Hilligoss, former editor of the Anderson Demo-
crat, died at Muncie, but the body was brought to Anderson for burial.
January 18 — Collision between interurban cars on the White river
bridge near Chesterfield. Seven people hurt.
January 18 — Joseph Burk died in Anderson. He was the man who
built the first street in Anderson on an established grade. That was
Water street — now Central avenue.
February 3 — Explosion of 700 quarts of nitroglycerine near Alex-
andria, killed one man and doing great damage.
February 26 — George McKeown, former publisher of the Anderson
Herald, died.
April 13 — Benjamin F. Aiman, ex-county commissioner, died at
Pendleton.
April 30 — Death of Captain Frank M. Hunter, of Elwood.
350 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
May 16 — Fire in the Elks )iome at Anderson, slight damage.
May 24 — Diamond robbery at George Greyer 's jewelry store in
Anderson.
June 13 — Bertha Stewart, of Moss Island, killed in a runaway.
June 16 — E. B. Gloodykoontz, ex-judge of the Madison circuit court,
died at Anderson.
June 26 — David W. Wood, ex-prosecuting attorney, killed by a Big
Four train at Anderson.
July 6 — Jacob Jacobson, the last toll-gate keeper in Madison county,
died near Anderson, aged ninety-seven years.
August 29 — Martin L. Bundy, who carried the mails through Ander-
son from Noblesville to Centerville, on horseback, in 1833, addressed an
old settlers' meeting at Chesterfield.
October 24 — Golden jubilee of the Anderson Presbyterian church.
November 2 — Bert Case, a popular railroad conductor on the Pan
Handle, killed in a wreck near Anderson.
November 12 — George Petty, master mechanic of the Big Four rail-
road, killed by a switch engine at Anderson.
December 6 — James W. Sansberry, the oldest member of the Madi-
son county bar, died at Anderson.
December 18 — Lincoln public school building at Anderson destroyed
by fire.
December 20 — Deputy Marshal William Ray, of Summitville, shot
and killed an unknown burglar.
December 26 — Fire at the Penn American Glass Works at Alex-
andria, loss $10,000.
1902
January 20 — Harry McCandless, street commissioner of Anderson,
killed by a, street car.
March 8 — John Julions' saw-mill at Dundee burned.
April 9 — First stone of the Union building, the finest office building
in Anderson, placed in position by Tim Striker.
April 22 — Plant of the Indiana Box Company at Anderson destroyed
by fire.
June 5— Louis J. Weichmann died at Anderson. He was one of the
chief witnesses in the trial of the conspirators for the assassination of
President Lincoln.
June 17 — Indiana Druggists' Association begin their state convention
in Anderson.
June 25 — A great storm sweeps over the southern part of the
county.
July 24 — Formal opening of the Anderson Country Club, north of
White river, on the grounds occupied by Camp Stilwell at the time of
the Civil war.
September 29 — Charles Merryweather, one of the contractors engaged
in erecting the Union building, killed by falling from the top of that
structure. This was the only casualty that occurred while the building
was under construction.
]
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 351
November 12 — Hiram J. Daniels, banker and former postmaster of
Anderson, died.
1903
January 7 — John R. Boston, a pioneer post-rider, died near Pendle-
ton, aged eighty-two years.
January 12 — Site selected for the Anderson postoffice at the corner
of Jackson and Eleventh streets.
January 18 — Charles Harrison and Myrtle East killed by a Pan
Handle train near Frankton.
January 28 — Destructive fire at the Anderson Tin Plate Works.
May 12-14 — State encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic
held in Anderson.
May 24 — Maplewood cemetery at Anderson dedicated — address by
Rev. J. C. Bickford, of the Methodist Episcopal church.
June 12 — Thomas Costello, Philippine soldier, buried at Anderson
with military honors.
July 24— Levi Conner, ex-eounty commissioner, killed by cars at
Daleville, Delaware county.
July 29 — William Elliott killed by lightning near Moss Island.
August 8 — First Chinese restaurant in the county opened at Ander-
son by Chong Long.
September 11 — Berryman Shafer, former prominent Madison county
politician, died at Manhattan, Kansas.
1904
January 17 — William Stanley, a farmer of Green township, found
dead in his room at the Sherman House, Indianapolis. Mr. Stanley
acquired considerable notoriety some years before his death by bring-
ing suit against Congressman W. D. Bynum, because Mr. Bynum prom-
ised the farmers one dollar a bushel for their wheat in ease his party
was successful. Wheat went down below that price and Mr. Stanley
sued to recover the difference.
Februarv' 2 — Indiana Brick Company's plant at Anderson destroyed
by fire, loss" $50,000.
February 9 — First Lieutentant John Collins of Company L, One
Hundred and Sixtieth Indiana Infantry, died and was buried with mili-
tary honors.
March 24 — Highest flood in thirty years.
March 29 — Calumet Mills, an old landmark at Pendleton, destroyed
by fire.
May 24 — ^Michael Ryan, an old citizen and former roadmaster of the
Pan Handle Railroad, died at Anderson.
May 25 — John W. Pence, former city councilman and cashier of the
Citizens' Bank, died.
June 16 — Death of Dr. Walter Hunt, city health officer of Ander-
son.
352 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
July 12 — Death of Silas Williams, whose father planted the first
orchard in Madison county, near Pendleton.
December 22 — First filtered water turned into the mains of the
Anderson water-works.
1905
January 1 — James T. Knowland, former secretary of the water-
works, prominent Mason and member of the Grand Army of the
Republic, died at Anderson.
January 8 — Explosion at the Penn American Glass Works, at Alex-
andria.
January IC — -Mrs. Ollie Huntzinger killed by the closing of a fold-
ing bed at Anderson.
February 2'1 — Captain Joseph T. Smith, of the Seventy-fifth Indiana
Infantry in the Civil war, died at Manhattan, Kansas.
March 30 — A gypsy child bom in a camp near Elwood — the first
gypsy born in the county.
April 20 — Anderson public library dedicated and opened to the
public.
May 11 — Severe tornado in the western part of the county.
May 15 — Opening of the Crystal theater, the first moving picture
show, at Anderson, by John Ammon.
ilay 15 — First public market at Anderson opened on Tenth street,
from Main to Jackson.
June 14 — First general observance of ''Flag Day" in Madison
county.
July 2 — State German Saengerfest opened at Anderson.
July 4 — John Keicher, lineman for the Bell Telephone Company
and former member of Company L, One Hundred and Sixtieth Regi-
ment, was killed by a live wire.
July 20 — Death of William Cronin, street commissioner of
Anderson.
July 27 — First intenirban car runs from Anderson to Middletown.
August 11 — Great cloud-burst at Anderson — cellars flooded and
much damage done.
November 14 — Frank Lee, the first man to run a milk wagon in An-
derson, died.
November 24 — Collision between an Anderson street car and a Big
Four train at Meridian street crossing. William Brittenhara, Big Four
yardmaster, killed and Conductor Hilligoss, of the street car, died some
time later as a result of the shock.
December 2 — Charles Rumler, Spanish-American war veteran, died
at Huntsville.
1906
January 12 — Augustus M. Williams, son of Robert N. Williams and
the first white male child born in Anderson, died.
January 24 — State Dairy Association began its state convention
in Anderson.
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 353
March 14 — The old Cook hoinestead near Iluntsville, one of the ohl-
est residences in the county, destroyed hy fire.
April 1 — Presbyterian church, at the corner of Ninth and Lin-
coln streets, Anderson, dedicated.
April 22 — Meeting at the Grand Opera House in Anderson, for the
relief of the San Francisco eartluiuake sufterers, about $800 raised.
June 22 — Weems Heagj', ex-county treasurer, died.
August 15 — Anderson postotifice, at the corner of P^leventh and
Jackson streets, opened to the public.
Augiist 21 — Disastrou-s wreck at ihe crossing of the Big Four and
the Anderson Belt railroads. Engineer Rugby and Fireman Guy killed.
August 26 — Senator Benjamin Tillman, of South Carolina, delivers
an address on the "race problem" at Chesterfield.
December 26 — William C. Fleming, ex-county clerk and member of
the legislature, died at Anderson.
1907
January 7 — Chauncey Towell, Spanish-American war veteran, died.
January 20 — Death of William Iledrick, once the largest land owner
in the county, and author of "Iledrick's Bible."
January 21 — Tilghman A. Howard, a native of Madison county and
oldest newsboy, died at Los Angeles, California — body brought to Ander-
son for burial.
February 11 — Bridge of the Union Traction Company over the
White river on the Isanogle farm, between Anderson and Chesterfield,
broke down while a car was passing over it and several people were
injured.
April 18 — Captain W. R. Myers, ex-congressman and three times
secretarj- of state of Indiana, diecl at Anderson.
June 12 — Masonic hall at Elwood dedicated.
July 25 — James ]\Iohan, ex-county recorder, died.
September 12 — Destructive fire at Pendleton.
1908
January 1 — Street car strike on electric lines at Anderson, but no
disorder or unlawful acts.
January 4 — Governor Hanley sends militia to Muncie to quell dis-
turbances growing out of the street car strike. Troops pass through
Anderson.
January 15 — Death of ^Irs. Elizalieth Harden, widow of Samuel
Harden, the ]\Iadison county liistorian.
February 1 — Great snow storm and blizzard.
:\Iarch 27 — Severe storm in the northern part of the county.
April 8 Hene-Lederer building at Elwood destroyed by fire, loss
$50,000. ^ ^ ,
July 4_Grand celebration at :\lounds Park for the benefit of the
associated charities and industrial school.
October 23 William H. Taft, Republican candidate for president,
in Andei-son for about twenty minutes.
354 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
1909
March 28 — John H. Terhune, mayor of Anderson and prominent
capitalist, died.
May 15 — David C. East, prominent hardware merchant and former
city councilman, killed by a street car at the corner of Lincoln and
Eleventh streets, Anderson.
May 26 — First local option election in Madison county.
June 3 — Eighth Congressional District Bankers' Association began
meeting in Anderson, closed with banquet at the Anderson Country
Club.
July 18 — Old fiddlers of Madison county meet in contest at Mounds
Park, large number of people in attendance.
July 25 — "Jerry" JIahoney, Big Four yardmaster, killed by falling
between two- ears.
August 3 — Part of the Tenth United States Infantry, while on a
2(X)-mile "hike," camped on the Myers farm, near Anderson.
August 15 — Twenty thousand people attend the old settlers' meet-
ing at Mounds Park to witness a sham battle between the Indians and
whites. The "Indians" were commanded by Gabriel Godfroy, the last
of the Miami chiefs, and the whites by Captain E. J. Finnell.
November 2 — Prank P. Poster elected mayor of Anderson.
1910
February 17 — Death of ]\Iartin L. Bundy, at Newcastle. Mr. Bundy
carried the mail on horseback between Noblesville and Centerville, pass-
ing through Anderson, in 1833.
March 14 — Sudden death of Wesley Dunham, former mayor of
Anderson.
June 23 — Fire in the office of the Anderson Daily Bulletin.
July 24 — Sham battle at Mounds Park under the auspices of the
Improved Order of Red Men.
August 5 — Death of Solomon Smelser, ex-sheriff.
August 17 — Reunion of the One Hundred and Sixtieth Indiana
Infantry at Anderson.
September 28 — Reunion of the One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana
Infantry at Anderson. This was one of the last regiments recruited for
the Civil war.
October 13 — Theodore Roosevelt spoke in Anderson.
December 28 — Ernest Phillips, a druggist of Prankton, accidentally
shot and killed himself while hunting.
1911
January 6 — Mrs. Sarah J. Richards, an inmate of the county in-
firmary, near Chesterfield, set fire to her clothes while lighting her pipe
and was burned to death.
January 11 — Morey I\I. Dunlap, former mayor of Andereon, died at
Denver, Colorado.
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 355
January 22 — Mrs. Itieia Wolf celebrated her one hundredth birth-
day anniversarj'. She died about a month later.
February 12 — Death of William E. Smith, ex-chief of police of
Anderson.
March 4 — John Ellis, chief of police, and Virgil Kirkham, patrol-
man, of Alexandria, were both killed by James Walker, whom they
tried to arrest while caught in the act of robbing a store. Walker
received a life sentence on April 4th following.
March 9 — Champ Clark, speaker of the United States house of repre-
sentatives, lectured at the Anderson high school building.
April 30 — Randall Brothers store and the Big Four depot at Ingalls
destroyed by fire.
May 24— Order of Orioles hold a state convention in Anderson.
Septeml)er 20 — Reunion of the Thirty-fourth Incjiana Infantry at
Anderson.
November 16 — Masonic banquet at Anderson, 400 persons in attend-
ance.
November 23 — Fraternal Order of Eagles give a big banquet in
Anderson, about 500 present.
December 9 — Harry P. Hardie appointed postmaster of Anderson —
appointment confirmed January 12. 1912.
December 25 — Elks gave a Christmas dinner to the children of
Anderson at the Elks' hall.
1912
January 26 — Two fires in Andei-son — -the works of the Anderson
Tool Company destro.yed and the JIasonic Temple damaged.
Februarv 9 — Gas explosion and fire in the Lapel Bottle Works cause a
loss of .$4,000.
February 12 — First Polish dance in Madison county given at the
armorj' in Anderson.
ilarcli 19 — New Odd Fellows' hall at the corner of Ninth and Jack-
son streets, Anderson, dedicated.
April 2 — Joseph Franklin, minister of the Christian church and
former county superintendent of schools, died aged seventy-eight years.
May 2 — Plant of the Indiana Brick Company destroyed by fire a sec-
ond time.
May 22 — Annual state convention of Elks began in Anderson.
July 9 — Anderson postoffice building struck by lightning and slightly
damaged.
Jidy 31 — First electric lights in Lapel.
August 31 — Town of ]\Iarkleville incorporated.
POPUL.iTION
At the time ISIadison county was organized in 1823, the population
was less than 1,000. Since that time the growth, as shown by the United
States census, has been as follows :
356 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
1830 2,238
1840 8,874
1850 12,375
I860 16,518
1870 22,770
1880 27,527
1890 36,487
1900 70,470
1910 65,224
The almost phenomenal growth during the decade between 1890 and
1900 was due to the discovery of natural gas. which brought many
thousands of dollars of capital and a large number of workmen to the
county. Vice versa, the decline in population between 1900 and 1910
was mainly due to the failure of the gas supply, many of the factories
that located in the county during the boom period removed elsewhere
their employees following. While this had a depressing effect upon
the industries of the county for a time, the manufacturing establish-
ments that remained in the county are now prosperous as a rule, and
the present decade is likely to show an increase in population when the
census of 1920 is taken.
The Official Register
Following is a list of the legislative and administrative officers of
Madison county from the time of its organization to 1912, so far as
the names could be gathered from the records. After the name of each
official is the year of election or that in which he took office. It should
be remembered that under the first constitution of the state repre-
sentatives to the state legislature were elected annually. Under the
present constitution, which became effective in 1851, they are elected
biennially. Prior to 1829 the business of the county was transacted by
the "Board of Justices," composed of all the justices of the peace in
the county. The first board of county commissioners assumed the duties
of office in 1829.
Representatives — James Paxton, 1823; James Conner, 1824; John
Conner, 1825 ; Elisha Long, 1826 ; William Conner, 1829 ; Thomas Bell,
1830 ; John Foster, 1833 ; Thomas Bell, 1834 ; Leonard Bardwell, 1835 ;
John H. Cook, 1836 ; Henry Wyman, 1837 ; Willis G. Atherton, 1839 ;
Thomas McCallister, 1841; John Davis and Robert N. Williams, 1842;
Thomas McCallister, 1843 ; Thomas Bell, 1844 ; Evan Ellis, 1845 ; William
Young, 1846 ; Robert N. Williams, 1847 ; Townsend Ryan, 1848 ; Evan
Ellis, 1849; William Crim, 1850; Thomas McCallister and Andrew
Shanklin, 1851; William C. Fleming, 1852; Thomas King, 1854;
Thomas G. Clark and Thomas N. Stilwell, 1856 ; William A. Thompson,
1858; John Hayes, 1860; Richard Lake, 1862; B. E. Croan, 1864; Fred
Black, 1866 ; J." F. Mock and G. F. Chittenden, 1868 ; J. W. Sansberry
and Thomas S. Lines, 1870; Thomas N. Jones and John 0. Ilardesty,
1872; George W. Harris and A. R. A. Thompson, 1874; Edgar Hender-
son and Joseph T. Smith, 1876 ; Stanley W. Edwins and Exum Saint,
HISTORY OP IMADISON COUNTY 357
1878; Stanley \V. Edwins, 1880; H. P. Shaffer, 1882; C. N. Branch,
1884; Frank P. Foster. 1886 (re-eleeted in 1888); A. J. Behymer,
1888; J. yi. Farlow, 1890; J. M. Hundley, 1892; J. H. Terhune, 1894;
E. E. Fornshell and W. W. :Manifold, 1896; E. H. Matthew, 1898, (re-
eleeted in 1900) ; Archer J. Jackley, 1902; George Nichol and Erastus
Robinson, 1904; C. K. McCulloiigh, 1906; A. J. Behymer, William
Cohran and L. A. Stephens, 1908; Charles E. Smith, Charles Biddle
and Edward Osborn, 1910 (all three re-eleeted in 1912).
State Senators — James Gregory, 1823; Calvin Fletcher, 1826; Elisha
Long, 18,31; Thomas Bell. 1835; Thomas D. Walpole, 1841; Andrew
Jack-son, 1844; Thomas D. Walpole, 1847; John Hunt, 1850; Andrew
Jack-son, 1852; David S. Gooding, 1856; Hervey Craven, 1858; John D.
Marshall, 1862 ; Milton S. Robinson, 1866 ; John W. Burson, 1870 ; Jamea
Orr, 1872; R. H. Cree, 1874; Charles T. Doxey, 1876; Marcus C. Smith,
1878; Charles L. Henrv, 1880; James T. Shively, 1884; A. E. Harlan,
1888; 0. A. Baker. 1892; Lafe Johnson, 1896; F. W. Cregor, 1898; W.
A. Kittinger. 1900 (re-elected in 1904) ; C. K. McCullough, 1908 (died
in oiifice and J. il. Farlow elected in 1910 for the remainder of the
term) ; J. J. Netterville, 1910; F. K. Van Nuys, 1912.
While state senators are elected for four j'ears it will be noticed that
one was elected every two years at times, particularly during the decade
from 1870 to 1880. This is due to the fact that ^Madison county was
entitled to one senator and a joint senator with some other county, the
joint senator being elected half-way between the elections of county
senators.
C/crA:s— Moses Cox, 1823: William Curtis, 1825; Ansel Richmond,
1826; Robert N. Williams, 1831; Andrew Jackson, 1838; James Hazlett,
1844; Peter H. Lemon, 1855; Joseph Peden, 1859; William C. Fleming,
1865; Thomas J. Fleming. 1870; Robert H. Hannah, 1874; Jesse L.
Henrv, 1878; Charles A. Henderson, 1882; James J. Netterville, 1886;
Edmiind Johnson, 1894; Isaac E. May, 1898; George S. Parker, 1902;
Arthur E. Harlan, 1906 ; Daniel L. Boland, 1910.
Auditors— Moses Cox, 1823; William Curtis, 1825; Ansel Richmond,
1826 ; Rol>ert N. Williams, 1831 ; Andrew Jackson, 1838 ; Joseph Howard,
1842; Robert N. Williams. 1844 (appointed in place of Howard, who
resigned); John W. Westerfield, 1845; William H. Mershon, 1851;
Joseph Sigler, 1855; James M. Dickson, 1862; George Nichol, 1870;
John L. Forkner, 1874; John E. Canaday, 1882; Calvin H. Allen, 1890;
William N. Heath, 1894; Otis P. Crim, 1898; Joseph D. Kinnard, 1902;
William T. Richards. 1906 ; Joel B. Benefiel, 1910.
Necorders— Moses Cox, 1823 ; William Curtis, 1825 ; Robert N. Wil-
liams, 1833; Isaac T. Sharp, 1839; Nineveh Berry, 1842; A. Taylor,
1850; Samuel B. Mattox, 1852; Burkett Eads, 1860; Joseph Howard,
1865 (appointed to fill the unexpired time of Mr. Eads, who died in
office); James :\Iohan, 1866; Jacob Hubbard, 1870; Albert C. Davis,
1878; Amos T. Davis. 1882; Daniel W. Black, 1890; Moses D. Harmon,
1894; Augustus T. Dve. 1898; James J. Davis, 1902; H. C. Daugherty,
1906; David R. Carlton, 1910.
.S/ic-j/T'.s— Samuel Cory, 1823; William Young, 1828; John C. Berry,
1831; Andrew Jackson, 1833; Joseph Howard, 1837; W. B. Allen,
358 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
1841; John H. Davis, 1845; William Roach, 1849; Benhaiu Nelson,
1853; Burkett Eads, 1855; Lauty Roach 1857 (appointed vice Eads[
resigned); David H. Watson, 1858; Benjamin H. Sebrell, I860; Wil-
liam A. Nelson, 1864; James H. Snell, 1866; David K. Carver, 1870;
Albert J. Ross, 1872; John W. McCallister, 1874; Andrew J. Griffith',
1875 (appointed to fill the unexpired term of McCallister, deceased) ;
Thomas J. McMahan, 1876; Randle Biddle, 1880; Thomas R. Moore,
1882; A. I. Makepeace, 1886; James Etchison, 1888; W. W. Vandyke,
1892; John Starr, 1894; Manville D. Moore, 1898; Truman M. Hous-
ton, 1902; Solomon Smelser, 1904; John W. Mountain, 1908; William
J. Black, 1912.
Treasurers—Thomas Pendleton, 1823; Bicknel Cole, 1829; Allen
Hiatt, 1830; Alfred Makepeace, 1831; Jesse Wise, 1832; James A.
Kindle, 1842; James Hazlett, 1843 (appointed vice Kindle, resigned)
Brazelton Noland, 1844; Seth Smith, 1846; Isaac P. Snelson, 1850
Joseph Howard, 1852 ; Armstrong Taylor, 1854 ; Nineveh Berry, 1856
John Hunt, I860; William W. Noland, 1863 (appointed vice Hunt
resigned, and elected for a full term in 1864); Joseph Pugh, 1866
James W. Thomas, 1870; Weems Heagy, 1872; Daniel F. Mustard!
1876; George Ross, 1882; Nathan T. Call, 1886; John R. Page, 1888
H. C. Callaway, 1892; William Boland, 1894; C. F. Heritage, 1896
C. C. Dehority, 1900 ; Thomas L. Dehority, 1902 ; George F. Quick, 1904
Otis P. Crim, 1908 ; George T. Beebe, 1912.
Comners— Charles Tharp, 1824; Saul Shaul, 1825; James M. Irish,
1829; John M. Allen, 1833; James L. Bell, 1837; John Kindle, 1844;
Lewis Brunt, 1851 ; William Vandevender, 1852 ; Hibbert D. Miner,
1855; J. J. Longenecker, 1856; Edmond W. Shaul, 1858; James Hol-
lingsworth, 1862 ; Anderson Moore, 1864 ; James A. Shawhan, 1866
James McGraw^ 1869; John J. Sims, 1870; G. W. Maynard, 1872
David B. Sims, 1874; A. K. Rockenfield, 1876; George Armstrong, 1880
William A. Hunt, 1884; C. L. Armington, 1889; S. C. Sells, 1894; E
M. Conrad, 1898; Charles Trueblood, 1902; A. V. Frankboner, 1906
Charles R. Smethers, 1908; Elmer S. Allbright, 1910.
Surveyors— 'Elijah Ellis, 1825; James Campbell, 1827; James M.
Irish, 1829 ; Nineveh Berry, 1831 ; L. S. Loveland, 1838 ; W. R. 0 'Neal,
1844; Thomas G. Clark, 1847; Tilghman Armfield, 1850; James W.
Thomas, 1856 ; William R. ilyers, 1858 ; James W. Thomas, 1860 ; Mar-
tin F. Ryan, 1870 ; Charlton Reed, 1875 ; M. F. Ryan, 1877 ; Thomas P.
Harris, 1878; A. D. Williams, 1884; Alexander Ross, 1888; Morton H.
Downey, 1894; Edwin J. Wilcox, 1904; Adolph I. Smith, 1908; Will-
iam F. McVaugh, 1912.
County Assessors — This office was established by the legislature of
1891. The assessors of Madison county have been as follows: B. B.
Campbell, 1891 ; Austin McCallister, 1892 ; John G. Haas, 1896 ; Thad.
M. Moore, 1900 ; Douglas M Montgomery, 1910.
County Commissioners — The first board of commissioners met in
September, 1829, and was composed of Henry Seybert, John Berry and
Thomas McCartney. Berry resigned and Jacob Shaul was appointed to
the vacancy. Since then the election of commissioners has been as fol-
lows : 1831, Brazelton Noland and Daniel Harpold ; 1832, Saul Shaul ;
I
HISTORY OF, MADISON COUNTt 359
1833, William Curtis; 1835, Enos Adamson; 1836, John Renshaw; 1837,
Joseph Ingalls; 1838, IVIicajah Jackson; 1839, Isaac T. Sharp; 1840,
William Curtis, John Renshaw and Enos Adamson; 1841, Henry Plum-
mer; 1842, William Sparks and Archibald Cooney; 1843, James L.
Bell; 1844, Jesse Forkner (died in office and William Wilson appointed
to the vacancy); 1845, Bazaliel Thomas; 1848, William Shaw; 1849,
Samuel Meyers and William Busby; 1850, F. Bron^enberg, Sr., and
Hezekiah Kidwell ; 1851, Thomas L. Beckwith and John McCallister;
1853, J. .M. Zedeker; 1854, Berryman Shafer; 1856, Isaac V. Cox; 1858,
George R. Boran (appointed to fill the unexpired term of McCallister,
deceased) ; 1858, Eli Hodson ; 1859, Thomas Brunt; 1860, William Crim;
1861, George R, Boran; 1863, W. A. Thompson, Sr. ; 1864, Peter Fesler;
1866, John Coburn (resigned and Levi Conner appointed in 1869) ; 1867,
Isaac W. Jones; 1870, James Hazlett and John McCallister; 1871,
Elmore Wright; 1872, Joseph Funk; 1873, George W. Hoel; 1874,
Henrv Plumraer; 1876, Benjamin F. Aiman ; 1878, Jacob Bromienberg ;
1883," John F. Thurston; 1884, W. F. Pence; 1886, William Cox and E.
H. Peters ; 1888 ; 6. L. Jones and John Costello ; 1890, H. Bronnenberg
and A. J. Cunningham; 1892, R. C. Howard; 1894, Allen Boram ; 1896,
Timothy Metcalf and Lafe J. Burr; 1898, J. M. Walker; 1900, C. E.
Swain ; 1902, E. P. McMahan ; 1904, no change in the personnel of the
board; 1906, M. J. Brown and J. F. Mauzy; 1908, Arthur S. Hughel;
1910, Allen Peters and James I. Anderson ; 1912, no change.
In this list of county commissioners no effort has been made to
record the re-elections of members of the board. The list contains the
name of every man who has ever served as county commissioner, with the
year in which such service began. Thomas Brunt, who was elected in
1860, served continuously for twelve years, and Benjamin F. Aiman,
elected in 1876, was a member of the board for ten years.
HISTORY OF
MADISON COUNTY
INDIANA
A Narrative Account of Its Historical Progress,
Its People and Its Principal Interests
Compiled Under the Editorial Supervision of
JOHN L. FORKNER
VOLUME II
ILLUSTRATED
THE LEWIS PUBLISHING COMPANY
CHICAGO AND NEW YORK
I914
'^oy
^^
HISTORY OF
MADISON COUNTY
MiEON 6. Reynolds. In the person of Miron G. Reynolds, of Ander-
son, is found another splendid example of the self-made manhood of
which this country is so proud. Commencing life without advantages,
working with his hands and climbing the familiar but difficult road of
poverty, meeting with obstacles and overcoming them as they arose, he
to-day finds himself in the ranks of Anderson's and many other cities
successful business men, and as president of the Central Heating Com-
pany, vice-president of the Indiana Silo Company and proprietor and
manager of the Reynolds Gas Regulator Company, he is recognized as
one of those who have made Anderson the city that it now is. His
career has been one of great activity and uncommon success, due to abil-
ity, the exercise of good judgment and the exhibition under all circum-
stances of the strictest integrity. A review of his career should have
something in it of a nature encouraging to the youth of to-day who is
struggling to gain, without friends or fortune, a place on the ladder that
leads to success and independence.
Miron G. Reynolds was bom in Wayne county, Indiana, June 16,
1853, a son of Brazila and Lydia (Layton) Reynolds. The parents,
Jiatives of New Jersey, became early settlers of Indiana, locating near
Williamsburg in Wayne county. The father was a millwright, and
followed that trade during his life time. He was an excellent business
man, and in his later years was prosperous. His was the reputation
of an honorable man of affairs, and by his associates he was held in the
greatest confidence.
Miron G. Reynolds received only a common school education, doing
the greater part of his stud3dng in the school of hard work. In time
he began learning the blacksmith's trade in his father's carriage works
plant at Williamsburg, remaining with his father until his twenty-fifth
year, after which he and his brother conducted a planing mill, the
young man in the meantime vainly trying to find his proper field. In
1890 he invented a gas governor, and in the same year came to Anderson
in search of gapit^ to exploit it. Capital, however, is a scarce com-
modity to those who have not influential connections, but Mr. Reynolds
persevered, with a faith in his ideas that would not down, and eventually
secured his backer, found his market, and after his invention was tested
and compared with others his future was assured. These regulators
are now being used throughout the United States and many foreign
countries. The Reynolds Gas Regulator Company was formed for the
361
362 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
manufacturing of this article, and of this large institution Mr. Reynolds
was the president and general manager, but is now the sole owner.
He was also the principal organizer of the Central Heating Company,
capitalized at $130,000, and which has a large plant equipped with the
most modem machinery, and of this concern Mr. Reynolds is the presi-
dent, a position which he has held since the company's inception. In
addition he is vice-president and a large stockholder in the Indiana Silo
Company, the largest enterprise of its kind in the United States. Other
enterprises and ventures of Anderson have had the benefit of Mi*. Reyn-
old's co-operation and support, and everywhere among his associates
he is looked to for guidance, counsel and leadership. No taint of dis-
honesty has rested upon his record. He is positive, strong and energetic,
but is tolerant of the opinions and careful of the rights of others, recog-
nizing the equal liberty of all, and always willing to help those who
were trying to help themselves.
In 1892 Mr. Reynolds was married to Miss Carrie B. Bousman, and
there is one child of this union, Myron B. Reynolds. Mr. Reynolds
has membership relations with the Knights of Pythias fraternity. His
beautiful home, erected in 1910, is of brick and in point of architectural
design and modern conveniences is considered one of the finest in
Anderson.
Neils P. Salling. The largest local enterprise of Anderson is the
lumber and coal business conducted under the name of N. P. Salling.
The yards of this business are located on Home Avenue between Bron-
nenberg and Twelfth Streets. Mr. Sailing, who has the largest lumber
yards and planing mills in this section of the state, furnishes to the
trade all kinds of lumber, lath, shingles, sash, blinds, doors, frames,
mouldings and wood turned work.
Mr. Sailing is a native of Denmark, born in the city of Viborg in
1858. He is one of the men of foreign birth who came to America at
the beginning of their careers, sought and found the largest opportunities
of life in this new country, and though he came without capital his
success has been much more generous than that of the average American
bom citizen.
Neils P. Sailing was educated in the city and select schools of his
native land, and was about thirteen years old when he came to America
in 1872. His first location was at Manistee, Michigan, where he was
connected for a time with the lumber business. His association was
with his uncle, E. N. Sailing, a well known lumberman at Manistee, and
while there he acquired the thorough experience which has enabled him
successfully to handle an independent enterprise and make a success of
it. In 1879 he removed to Grayling, Michigan, where he became inter-
ested in the mercantile business under the firm name of Sailing, Hanson
& Company. For several years, Mr. Salling was in the wholesale lum-
ber trade at Grayling and other parts of Michigan.
In 1899, Mr. Sailing moved to Anderson, and established his present
business on April 25, of that year. From 1899 to 1903^ he was exten-
sively engaged in the manufacture of lumber, shingles and other lumber
products. Purchasing the business of Koontz, Koontz & Lamont Cash
Lumber Company, he added the planing mill and has since developed his
plant in Anderson, until his yards and planing factory are the largest
in this section of Indiana. His large and well selected stock of lumber
is secured and protected under extensive sheds, and by that means he is
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 363
able to supply his customers with all kinds of lumber, and have it finished
in the planing mill according to the customer's specifications and wishes.
In connection with his large lumber yard, he handles coal on an exten-
sive scale. Mr. Sailing is also interested in other lumber yards, two at
;\Inncie. Indiana, and one at Huntington in this state. He is also a stock-
holder in the Webb-Baxter Company at Anderson.
Jlr. Sailing married Miss Nancy Coolidge, a native of Michigan, and
a daughter of Elisha W. Coolidge. a prominent lumber merchant. No
children have been born to their man-iage. Mr. Sailing is well known
as a Mason, having membership in the Manistee Lodge No. 258, A. F. &
A. M.. at Manistee : Chapter No. 142 R. A. M., at Grayling; and Anderson
Commandi^rs- No. 32' K. T. ; Detroit Council of Loyal and Select Masters
in Michigan ; and Moslem Temple of the Mystic Shrine of Detroit, hav-
ing taken also thirty-two degrees of the Scottish Rite. His other social
affiliations are with the Knights of Pythias at Anderson, and the Benevo-
lent and Protective Order of Elks in the same city. As to politics, Mr.
Sailing has always given his support to the Republican party.
^Ir. Sailing came to America a boy without means and with no one
especially to direct his youthful coui-se, and b,y energy, tact and good
management has accumulated a considerable amount of property, and
is recognized as one of the successful business men of Anderson, a broad-
minded, public spirited and very cordial gentleman. He has a good
residence at 832 West Eighth Street, on one of the best residence thor-
oughfares in Anderson.
Joel R. Benefiel. In Madison county where he has spent his entire
life, and where his ability as a farmer and business man and citizen is
highly appreciated, Joel B. Benefiel is now serving as incumbent of the
important county office of auditor. His residence is in Pendleton, and
his name has been known in the southwestern section of the county since
1889.
Of all the old and respected families of Madison county, it is doubtful
if any has played a more important part than the Benefiels, in the set-
tlement, development and the business and civic activities of this sec-
tion. The present Madison county auditor is the only son of W. H. H.
Benefiel and Jennie H. (Epperly) Benefiel, both of whom still reside
at Pendleton. The career of the elder Benefiel in Madison county has
been an interesting one. and among the old-timers none can relate with
keener memory and with better appreciation of relative values in a
story reminiscences of old-timers in Madison county than W. H. H.
Benefiel. He tells not only the experiences of his own life, but the life
and experiences of many pioneers in this section of Indiana, and a
younger generation may better understand what pioneer life meant when
they hear the elder Benefiel describe the corn-huskings. the log-rollings,
the apple cuttings, and similar incidents and activities in which the
first settlers in Madison county engaged. Among the old-timers still
living probably W. H. H. Benefiel knows and can recall that early life
better than any other of his contemporaries. From him one may gain
a graphic word picture of the old school house with its puncheon floors,
with its windows admitting light through greased paper, and with its
various other primitive facilities and furnishings. In these schools
were taught the three R's — reading 'riting and 'rithmetic. His memory
even goes back to the pioneer and green forests, the wild deer and other
game, which haunted this country before the advent of the white man
364 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
and railroads and other facilities of civilization had exterminated them.
Mr. Benefiel and his good wife now reside in a beautiful and com-
fortable home at Pendleton, and are honored by all their old and young
friends, among whom there is none to begrudge them the enjoyment of
the fruits of their early industry and savings.
Joel B. Benefiel was bom on the old home farm in Jackson township
December 20, 1867, and all his early career was spent in the rural dis-
trict. When he arrived at the proper age he entered the local schools,
and proved himself an eager student, and when his services were needed
at home he gave the benefit of his labors in morning and evening and in
vacation time to the multifarious details which always require attention
on a farpi. When he was about fifteen years old, in order to secure a
better education, he entered the high school at Frankton, and there
studied and obtained much useful knowledge which has been of benefit
to him in all his life and in the business world. When his school days
were finished, he took up farming as his regular vocation, and followed
that in connection with stock raising and the manufacturing of cheese
for many years.
Mr. Benefiel 's career as a farmer brought him more than ordinary
success, and it was his standing as a responsible business man and effi-
cient agriculturist that finally brought him into public afifairs. In 1911
he was chosen auditor of Madison county, and took charge of that office
on January 1, 1912. In 1911 after his election to office he moved from
the farm to Pendleton. Mr. Benefiel is accommodating and efficient
as auditor, and his administration of the office has brought credit to
himself and satisfaction to his constituency.
In October, 1890, Mr. Benefiel was united in marriage with Hannah
J. Gusinger. Their marriage has been blessed with the following chil-
dren: Leon G., born February 22, 1892, a graduate of the Pendleton
high school and now deputy auditor under his father; Horace I., bom
April 23, 1894, a graduate of the Pendleton high school * William E.,
bom September 10, 1896; Mary A., bom September . 30, 1898; Nora J.,
bom October 29, 1900 ; and Martha A., born April 30, 1905 ; and Joel T.,
bom September 25, 1907. The family are communicants of the Catholic
church and Mr. Benefiel is afiSliated with the Knights of Columbus at
Anderson.
Since taking up his duties as county auditor, Mr. Benefiel has dis-
posed of his farming interests in Madison county. He is a man who is
well and favorably regarded throughout this county, has made a record
for honesty and honorable dealings, and has won many of the finest
fruits of life, consisting not only of material prosperity, but the fine
esteem of a commiinity, which takes occasion to show its complete confi-
dence in his integrity.
Chables a. Henderson. The oldest drug store in Madison county
is that now conducted by Charles A. Henderson, at Anderson, which
has been used as a pharmacy for more than forty-five years, and has an
old and well-established trade. Mr. Henderson, who is widely and
favorably known in Anderson, is a veteran of the Civil war, and both in
times of war and peace has justified the confidence that has been placed
in him, and has ably and faithfully discharged his duties as both soldier
and citizen. He was bom near Zanesville, Muskingum cc aty, Ohio,
January 28, 1844, and is a son of William R. and Ann (Lumb) Hender
son. His father was bom in Orange county, New York, and was an
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 365
early settler of Muskingum county, where he practiced law until his
death. He was a son of John Henderson, an early settler of West Vir-
ginia, who was bom in the North of Ireland, and who emigrated thence
to New York, later settling in West Virginia and taking up his resi-
dence in the vicinity of the city of Wheeling.
The educational training of Charles A. Henderson was secured in
the public schools of Dresden, Ohio, where, after taking his high school
course under the instruction of Robert Stevenson, a noted educator of
that day, he entered a pharmacy in Zanesville, Ohio, and there he
learned the drug business. He was so engaged at the outbreak of the
struggle between the North and the South, and in 1863 came to Decatur,
Indiana. His youthful patriotism and enthusiasm for the cause of the
Union led him to enlist as a member of Company S, Fifty-ninth Regi-
ment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He entered the service as a raw
recruit, was mustered in at Kendallville, soon after being placed in
charge of a company doing guard duty at Indianapolis, Indiana, where
he served his full time in the service. He received his honorable dis-
charge in 1865, and returning from his military career, he spent two
years in the drug business at Rochester, then went to Indianapolis,
where he was employed by A. Kiefer, who was engaged in the sale of
wholesale drugs. Mr. Henderson's advent into Anderson was in 1868,
and since that time this city has been his home and the scene of his
business activities. He continued to successfully conduct this business
until 1882, when he was elected clerk of the court of Madison county,
a position he continued to hold four years. During this time he also
ran his drug store successfully, having a competent man in charge of
the business, so that his time was not deflected from his official duties.
The stock of his establishment is a comprehensive one, embracing varied
lines of drugs and medicines, toilet articles, druggists sundries and such
other stock as is usual to first class pharmacies, and his business has
with the passing years continued to show a steady and gratifying growth.
Absolutely reliable, Mr. Henderson has gained and held the confidence
of his fellow townsmen, and as a business man and a private citizen is
held in the highest esteem.
On June 1, 1875, Mr. Henderson was united in marriage with Miss
Harriett E. Crabbs, of Wabash, Indiana, a daughter of Joseph Crabbs.
a banker of that city, and well known and highly esteemed in that part
of the state. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Henderson,
as follows: Charles E., a druggist; Joseph C, who is also engaged in
that business; Frederick A., a physician and surgeon, and a graduate of
Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, and now serving as interne in
the Kings County Hospital in New York City ; Bessie M., the only daugh-
ter, who died in the seventeenth year of her life. The wife and mother
died on December 23, 1906, and her loss is deeply mourned, not only by
her family, but by all who knew her and shared in her worthy life in
any way.
Mr. Henderson has always been a stalwart Democrat, but with the
exception of four years spent as county clerk and two years as city clerk
of Anderson, he has never aspired to public service. On both those
occasions he was elected to the office by magnificent and flattering major-
ities, and in both he gave a worthy service, in every way satisfactory to
the public and creditable to himself. His fraternal connections are with
the A. F. & A. M. Mt. Moriah Lodge No, 77, in which he has taken the
366 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Master's degree. He also has membership in Major May Post No. 244,
G. A. R., and his friends in all walks of life are numerous and devoted.
Joseph E. Hennings. One time owner of the Grand Hotel of Ander-
son and now manager of the Grand Opera House and the Anderson
Posting Advertising Company. Joseph E. Hennings has been identified
with the business interests of this city since 1890. His first connection
with the commercial aifairs of Anderson was as salesman and solicitor,
and he gained a local reputation for progressive ideas and genuine busi-
ness capacity that has stood him in excellent stead through all the years
of his operation.
Bom in New York City, May 10, 1865, Joseph E. Hennings received
his early training in the schools of the American metropolis. During
his hours out of school the boy practically supported himself by selling
papers in the streets. His education was limited to the briefest training,
and he was but ten years old when he left school to engage in regular
work. He was employed as an office boy for a time, and then left New
York and landed in Kokomo, Indiana, where he became a bell boy in
the Clinton House. He was also a newsboy in that city. He came to
Anderson in 1890. He was attracted to this town during the days of
the Indiana State Baseball League. In his loyalty to the Kokomo team
he was landed in the grand stand for all his spare change, and the Ander-
son boys advertised him as lost. He remained in Anderson, as he says,
rather than walk back, besides facing the humiliation of defeat. How-
ever, he possessed the wit and independence which would prosper any-
where, and it is said of Mr. Hennings that no matter what convolutions
of experience he might go through he would land on his feet. Though
he had only brains with which to contend against both brains and
capital, his native shrewdness won out and he thus became well estab-
lished in Anderson vnthin a few years. In 1894, he engaged in the
hotel business, becoming proprietor of what was knovsm as the old
Anderson Hotel, a place he continued to operate with success for the
ensuing" ten years. In 1905 he became interested in the Grand Opera
House, and in the same year leased the Grand Hotel, then the principal
hotel in Anderson and new and modern in all its appointments. In this
hotel he brought to bear all his early acquired knowledge of the business
as well as that he had gained in later years, and carried on the manage-
ment until the Grand Hotel became the most popular hostelry in the state.
In the meantime he h^d become manager of the Grand Opera House,
which he operated profitably in connection with his activities as land-
lord of the finest hotel. In February, 1913, Mr. Hennings disposed of
his interests in the Grand Hotel, but continued as manager of the Opera
House. For five consecutive years he was president of the Indiana Hotel-
keepers Association. Since retiring from the hotel business, Mr. Hen-
nings has bought a neat and substantial residence on Central Avenue,
and now devotes his entire time to those interests which have gradually
accumulated during his active business career. He is a stock holder in
the People's State Bank and the Farmers Trust Company, is also owner
of the Bill Posting Plant, the best equipped concern of its kind in the
state. He owns valuable grounds opposite the post office, covering an
area of seventy-two by one hundred and forty-four feet. The Anderson
Posting Advertising Company is well known throughout th' section of
the state. Mr. Hennings was director general in the most important
commercial event in the history of Anderson, and also the most success-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 367
ful affair ever brought about for boosting home interests. This was the
"Made in Anderson exhibit" held under a mammoth canvas during the
first week in June, 1913, and attractinjjr visitors, business men and indus-
trial representatives from every part of the country. He was chairman
of the finance committee in this county. His fraternal relations are with
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and at the present time
he is grand district deputy of the Grand Lodge of that Order, while he
served a.s chairman of the connnittee appointed to provide for the Elks
State Convention which met in Anderson in May, 1912. That was the
best state convention in the history of the order. He is likewise a mem-
ber of the Loyal. Order of Moose, the Knights of Pythias, is interested in
the Travelers Protective As.sociation, of which he is a director, and is
a director of the Antlers Club.
]\Ir. Hennings as a successful man credits no small share of his prog-
ress and prosperity to his capable wife. On August 7, 1891, soon after
he located in Anderson, he married Miss Josephine Morey, of Adrian,
Michigan, a daughter of Max ]\Iorey. They have one daughter Eva.
The family residence is 1222 Central Avenue
Jlr. Hennings has long since demonstrated the character of his citi-
zenship to be above reproach, and his public spiritedness and open-
mindedness has been of the greatest benefit of the city which represents
his home, and where he displays a wholesome interest in every enterprise
calculated to enhance the community welfare.
Mr. Hennings retains his office in the Grand Opera House block and
while he has opportunities in other cities where a larger field for opera-
tions are offered him, he still stands by the ship that carried him over
and believes in loyalty to good old Anderson.
Henry Dr.\ch. It is gratifying to be able to present in this publica-
tion individual mention of so appreciable a percentage of the representa-
tive citizenship of Anderson, and to such recognition Mr. Drach is well
entitled, as he is a loyal and public-spirited citizen and is the able and
popular incumbent of the office of superintendent of the city water works.
Mr. Drach was born in tJie city of Cleveland, Ohio, on the 4th of
August, 1868, and is a son of Jacob W. and Maria (Hechler) Drach, both
natives of Germany and representatives of stanch old families of that
great empire. Jacob W. Drach was reared to adult age in his native
land and was there afforded good educational advantages. At the age
of eighteen years he emigrated to America and here he served a thorough
apprenticeship to the blacksmith's trade in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania,
soon afterward moving to Cleveland, Ohio, and to that enterprise he
devoted the greater part of his active career in that city, there spending
the remainder of his life, and dying in 1871, his widow surviving him
until 1889. Of their five children one son and one daughter are deceased.
To the public schools of his native city Henry Drach is chiefly indebted
for his early educational discipline, and after he left the grades he
attended a night school in the city for some time, after which he entered
the employ of the Stacc^ard Oil Company, where he occupied himself at
learning the machinist's trade. He later had charge of the installation
of machinery in different plants of the Hughes Steam Pump Company
of Cleveland, and still later was employed by the same company in the
work of installing waterworks plants and equipment in various cities
and towns. In 1893 Mr. Drach came to Anderson and assumed charge
of the installation of machinery in a local water works plant, of which
368 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
he was, in 1895, appointed superintendent upon the completion of the
system. Of this office he has continued as the valued incumbent from
the time of the organization of the controlling company and it is largely
due to his ability and effective endeavors that the local water-works sys-
tem has been maintained at the highest standard of efficiency.
In polities Mr. Drach is faithful to the principles of the Republican
party, and in fraternal matters he is affiliated with Mount Moriah Lodge
No. 77, A. F. & A. M., as well as with the local lodge of the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks.
In 1898 Mr. Drach was married to Miss Agnes Ethell, who died in
1906, leaving him one son, — Qeorge Henry. He resides at 728 West
Seventh str^t.
Forrest J. Hill. Two of the important industrial enterprises that
are lending commercial prestige to the city of Anderson, are those repre-
sented in the Hill Machine Company, and the Hill-Trip^ Pump Com-
pany. Of the first named, Forrest J. Hill is secretary and treasurer,
and of the latter he is treasurer, as he also is of the Hill Stage Company.
Mr. Hill is one of the aggressive business men and public spirited citi-
zens of Madison county, where he is well known and held in high esteem,
so that there are many reasons why he shou'd be given specific recogni-
tion in this history of the county and its representative citizens.
Mr. Hill claims the Buckeye State as the place of his nativity, and
belongs to a staunch pioneer family. He was born at Carlisle in War-
ren county on the 31st of August, 1859, and is a son of Jasper N. and
,y Rebecca (Keiser) Hill, the former of whom died at Anderson on July
V 1, 19Q?f and the latter died in ISSJ^pT'he name Hill has been long and
^ conspicuously -identified with general business enterprise in the city of
Anderson, and Jasper N. Hill was the founder of the extensive concern
with which his son Forrest J. is now actively and prominently identified.
Jasper N. Hill was a native of Pennsylvania, and established his residence
in Ohio when a young man. He became one of the substantial business
men of Montgomery county, that state, where he continued to maintain
his home until 1862, when the family came to Anderson, Indiana. In
1889 was effected the organization and incorporation of the Hill ilachine
Company, of which he became president, and the other officials were
likewise members of the family, namely: Forrest J. Hill, secretary;
Hugh A. HiU, treasurer, and Ernest N. Hill, superintendent. The pres-
ent officers of the company are: Hugh A. Hill, president; Forrest J.
Hill, secretary and treasurer ; and Ernest N. Hill, general manager. The
Hill Machine Company operates with a capital stock of forty-five thou-
sand dollars, and its large and well equipped plant is situated at the cor-
ner of St. Charles and Twenty-third Streets. The main building is one
hundred and ninety by eighty feet in dimensions, containing the machine
shop with an extension of sixty-five feet by eighty feet containing foun-
dry and further extension containing cupola, rattler, flasks, pig iron etc.
An "L" that is sixty-five by one hundred and fifty feet in dimensions
is used for offices and for shipping and crating rooms, as well as for
the general sales department. The other apartments are the pattern
shop, pattern storage, boiler room, etc. The manufacturing department
is equipped with the most improved machinery and power for its oppra-
tion is furnished by electric motors of seventy-five horse po ar. In the
establishment are manufactured steam, electric and power pumps, espe-
cially those designed for the pumping of water from wells of great depth.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 369
The products of the Hill Machine Company have gained a wide sale,
and the trade extends through the various sections of the United States
as well as into South America and Europe. Jasper N. Hill was num-
bered among the most progressive business men and the most honored
citizens of Anderson, and contributed much to the furtherance of the
civic and industrial prosperity of his community. After his retirement
from business affairs, he continued to live in Anderson until death came
as an end of his mortal endeavors, when he was in the fullness of years
and well earned honors. His career was guided and governed by the
highest principles of integrity, he was strong in his convictions and ever
ready to do his part in supporting measures and enterprises advanced
for the general good of the community. His name is remembered with
lasting honor in Madison county, and he made his life productive for
good in its every relation.
Forrest J. Hill is indebted to the public schools of his native city for
his earlier educational discipline, after which he attended the public
schools of Anderson, completing his studies in the high school. He then
entered his father's factory, where he gained a thorough knowledge of
the practical details of the business and soon became a valued assistant
in the conduct and management of the enterprise. In the field of manu-
facturing his advancement has been steady, and his own ability and
energj' have won him success. In eveiy respect Mr. Hill has well upheld
the high prestige of the honored name which he bears. He is one of the
liberal and representative business men of Anderson, is a staunch Repub-
lican in his political belief, and takes an abiding interest in all matters
touching the social and material progress and prosperity of his home city.
Mr. Hill married Miss TiUie Granger, a daughter of Dow Granger of
Noblesville, Indiana. The four children of their marriage are : Forrest
Jr., Hester, Marybelle, and Mildred.
Robert C. Shepherd. When the late Robert C. Shepherd died on
November 5, 1904, he was the possessor of one of the finest farm homes in
Madison county, Indiana, where he had lived for many years and reared
his family. Probably no man in Madison county betrayed a deeper inter-
est in farms and farming than did he, and it is certain that few if any,
reached the pinnacle of success as an agriculturist that he attained. The
study of that subject was long one of the most engrossing interest to him,
and he possessed a deeper insight into it and was more thoroughly
familiar with the secrets of Mother Earth than is often given to any
who are not scientific students of the soil. His splendid farm of 260
acres near Anderson was long regarded as one of the finest in Madison
county, and his home corresponded to it in all its detail of comfort and
capacity.
Robert C. Shepherd was born in Kent county, Maryland, on August
24. 1852, and his death occurred at his home place on November 5, 1904.
He was the son of James and Jane (Clendenning) Shepherd, natives both
of Maryland, and there they passed their days. The son received his
education in Kent county, and in his youth was thoroughly trained in
the carpentering business, in which he was for some years occupied as
a contractor, and in which he was fairly successful. It was not the
work, however, in which his heart was centered, and when he came to
Indiana in early life and beheld aboat him the splendid opportunities
for securing land engaging independently in the business of farming,
370 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
he relinquished all activity in building circles, and confined himself to
the acquiring and working of a farm of his own.
Success was never a stranger to Mr. Shepherd. His first three years
in Indiana were spent in Selina and Chesterfield, and it was then that
he took up farming. His first place was one of forty acres, but he early
began to add to his holdings and when he died a few years ago he had
360 acres of the finest Indiana land represented on his tax list. He was
a man of the most thoroughgoing methods, and one who believed that
whatever was worth doing at all was worth doing well. Consequently,
he did not farm in a half hearted or indifferent manner. He did not
make the mistake of attempting to successfully conduct a farm without
acquainting himself with first principles in the art of farming. Rather
did he delve 'deep into the subject, learning the comparative values and
qualities of the different types of soil, and applying his knowledge in
a manner that was conducive to the best results. His fine home was
planned and built by himself, and is a distinct credit to him as a builder,
despite the fact that he abandoned the contracting basiness to take up
one that was of deeper interest to him, and more suited to his natural
inclinations. A man of considerable education, he was a citizen of the
highest type and ever evinced a proper interest in matters affecting the
public weal in his community.
Mr. Shepherd was married on April 10, 1870, to Miss Leona Tread-
way Nelson, the only child of Moses and Martha Nelson. Seven children
were born to them. Warren, the eldest, married Anna Dean. Thomas
C. is married to Mattie Gobin, and they have two children, — Dorothea
and Beulah. Charles W. married Ira Abbott. Alzora is the wife of
Homer Lawler, and they have one son, William. Mae is the wife of
Daniel Boner, and the mother of two sons, — Robert and Theodore. Jessie
married Francis Scott, and their two children are Helen Mae and
Lavona. Bertha, the last born, is the wife of Henry Hawlor, and has
one daughter, Margaret. All have reached places of usefulness and
merit and are acquitting themselves honorably in the work to which
Life has called them variously.
Mr. Shepherd was an exceptionally public-spirited and enterprising
man, and was known widely throughout his county. He was well read
on topics of the day, an interesting conversationalist, but a thinker and
doer, rather than a talker. He was long a member of the Methodist
Episcopal church, and was fraternally identified by his membership in
the Red Men., He died comparatively young in years, being but little
past his fifty-second birth anniversary, but he had accomplished more in
that brief span than many who are longer spared to this world and its
work, and will long be remembered as one of the most capable and suc-
cessful men who ever identified themselves with the business of agricul-
ture in Madison county.
W. C. Scott. Few men who find pleasure in country life realize more
solid enjoyment from their work than does W. C. Scott, well known
farmer and stock breeder of this community. His work is his recreation
alike, and in it he exercises every faculty in his possession. As a breeder
of fine horses Mr. Scott is known throughout the state, and he is espe-
cially well known as the owner of Dan R., one of the fastest horses of the
country, with a registered speed of 2:011/4. As a general ''armer, too,
as well as in his capacity of breeder, Mr. Scott has gained prominence,
i
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 371
and his place located on the W. C. Scott Gravel Road, lies about a mile
and a half distant from the town of Chesterfield.
Mr. Scott was born on September 12, 1852, in the town named above,
and is the son of William and Betsey (Schrayer) Scott, the former a
native son of Lee county, Virginia, who came to this region in the year
1836 and here settled. He was variously employed in the community
for some years, and was for a considerable time occupied in railroad
contracting, a work in which he was particularly successful. Both par-
ents died in this locality.
When ]\Ir. Scott was a boy he early gained habits of independence and
energy, his first work being that of waterboy to the gang which his father
employed in the railroad work. Later he served as pumpman for the
tank that fed the engines, and he went to school when it was convenient,
rather than otherwise. He also worked on the farm and did teaming for
wages, and was occupied in these ways until he reached his twenty-
second year, when he set out for himself as an independent farmer. He
rented land the first while and later bought the farm, where he has ever
since resided most comfortably. Here he has carried on his work and
with advancing years and growing independence, he has found it pos-
sible to indulge his fancy for thoroughbred horses, as well as to keep up
the regular work of his place. His ownership of the well known Dan R.
has already been mentioned, and is indicative of his taste in horseflesh.
In 1875 Mr. Scott married Rachel Boddel who died without issue,
and he later married Hannah Boddel, who bore him three children.
Luther, the eldest, married Vina Boner ; Jacob married Nettie Dunham,
and Hannah is the wife of Charles Owens. The third marriage of Mr.
Scott was to Mary A. Parker, and to them have been bom two daugh-
ters. Angeline, the eldest, married William Boner, and they have one
child, Eva. Elizabeth married Elmer Jeifries, and to. them two sons,
— Walter and Floyd, were born, the first of whom is deceased.
Beyond his home interests Mr. Scott is not concerned with public
matters, beyond the interest of any good citizen. He is a Republican in
Politics and attends the Christian church.
Alonzo D. Norris. Holding prestige as the leading fruit grower of
Adams township, Alonzo D. Norris has also the distinction of belonging
to that class of men who have achieved their success through personal
effort, as he entered upon his career without financial backing or injSu-
ential connections and has worked his way to the front by steady applica-
tion, untiring industry and constant perseverance. From modest begin-
nings he has built up a business which adds to the importance of Madison
county as a fruit-growing center, and at the same time has identified
himself with all movements which have gone to make for the public
welfare. Mr. Norris was born in Henry county, Indiana, November 10,
1857, and is a son of John C. and Emmeline M. (Bray) Norris, both
now deceased, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Adams
township. There were three children in their family, of whom two
now survive: Cindora, who is the wife of Isaac Keesling and resides
in Kansas; and Alonzo D,
Alonzo D. Norris received his education in the district schools of
Adams township, whence he had been brought as a child, and was here
reared to manhood. In 1878 he was married to Mary F. Stanley, and
about eighteen months thereafter went to Illinois, where he spent two
years. Subsequently he went to Kansas, by way of wagon, but after
372 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
three years spent in farming in that state returned to Indiana, and
took up his residence in the city of Anderson. During the twelve yeara
that followed, Mr. Norris followed the trade of carpenter, with mod-
erate success, and then spent two years in Henry county, but about the
year 1898 returned to Adams township, Madison county. His capital
at this time consisted of about $100, and part of this he invested in a
smaU tract of land, on which he began truck farming. Here he also
began experimenting in the growing of fruit and was so successful with
his initial ventures that he was encouraged to extend ' his operations
along this line. From year to year he has extended the scope of this
industry, and today he has seventeen acres set out in small fruits, prin-
cipally strawberries and raspberries, and, as before mentioned, is the
leading fruit grower of the township. His products find a ready sale
in the markets at Anderson, where Mr. Norris is known as a man of
excellent business abilities. He has made a thorough study of his call-
ing, is recognized as an expert in his line, and has been successful in pro-
ducing some excellent varieties of the smaller fruits. It would be diffi-
cult to find a better example of self-reliance, progressiveness and per-
severing energy, than that displayed in the career of Mr. Norris. He
has met discouragements and disappointments, but has not allowed
them to make him lose faith in himself, and his steady confidence in
his ultimate success has eventually brought him to the vocation for
which, it would seem, he is best fitted. In his political views Mr. Norris
is a Democrat, but he has found little time to devote to matters of a
public nature, although he endeavors to support good men and meas-
ures and to aid other public-spirited men in forwarding movements for
the benefit of Adams township and Madison county. His fraternal con-
nections include membership in the Improved Order of Red Men, at
Emporia, and the Hay Makers at Anderson.
Mr. and Mrs. Norris are the parents of six children : Herbert ;
Clarence, who is married and lives in Adams township ; George, a mem-
ber of the cavalry service in the United States army, stationed at a fort
in Wyoming, Nebraska ; Alva, single and living' at home ; and Ada and
Gladys.
John T. Starr. Adams township can boast of some of the best-
regulated farms in Madison county, and here are also to be found some
of the most progressive agriculturists of this part of the state. Many
of these men have been the architects of their own fortunes, and, ap-
preciating their success because it has been self-gained, take a par-
donable degree of pride in their own achievements and those of their
community, and are striving earnestly in behalf of the public welfare.
Prominent among this class stands John Thomas Starr, who has not
only won an enviable position in agriculture, but has also rendered his
county signal service in the capacity of sheriff. Mr. Starr was born in
Henry county, Indiana, November 5, 1852, and is a son of Wiley and
Dorcas (Vickery) Starr. His father, a native of South Carolina,
migrated to Henry county, here established himself as a farmer, and
passed away when John T. was a child. Mrs. Starr was remarried in
1860, but her second husband died four years later. Three children
were bom to Wiley and Dorcas Starr, namely: John T. ; Joel D., who
served in the Union army throughout the Civil War, i bsequently be-
coming a farmer of Anderson township, where he died in April, 1912,
one of his community's most highly respected citizens; and Elizabeth,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 373
who is the wife of Richard Graham, who was also a soldier in the Union
rankifv
Johu T. Starr was educated in the district schools of Henry county,
and wavi there reared to manhood, continuing to reside in the vicinity
of his native place until March, 1882, when he came to Madison county
and located in PaU Creek township, near Pendleton. Here he com-
menced to feed and ship stock, and his operations, commenced in a
humble manner, soon grew to large proportions, and he was recognized
as one of the substantial men of his community. Since 1898 he has
devoted the greater part of his attention to general farming in Adams
township, and is now the owner of a valuable, well-cultivated property.
He has always been ready to adopt modern methods and ideas in his
work, understands his business thoroughly, and because of persever-
ance, far-sightedness and good management has been uniformly suc-
cessful in all of his ventures. In his political views he is a Republican
with progressive tendencies. He was three times nominated in conven-
tion without opposition for the office of sheriff and became his party's
nominee on another occasion, and served in that capacity from 1894 to
1898, giving the people of Madison county an excellent administration
and bringing to the discharge of his official duties the same enthusiasm
and well-directed effort that have made him successful in his business
affairs. He belongs to Sicilian Lodge, No. 234, Knights of Pythias ; has
been connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1872,
and has twice been noble grand of Mechanicsburg Lodge ; and is also
prominent in Masonry, being a member of Madison Lodge No. 44, F.
& A. M., Pendleton Chapter No. 51, R. A. M., Pendleton Council, R. &
S. M., and Anderson Commandery. In all of these he has a wide
acquaintance and numerous sincere friends.
Mr. Starr was married to Miss Mary Ann Pringy wno was born and
educated in Henry county, Indiana, and three children were bom to
this union, of whom two are living in 1913 : James M., bom April 21,
1875, in Henry county, who served four years as deputy sheriff under
his father, and is now engaged in the manufacturing business at Ander-
son ; and J. Ward, born in Madison county, who is a graduate of the
common and high schools of Anderson and an Indiana University stu-
dent now teaching in Madison county; James M., was married to Miss
Maude Aiman, a daughter of Benj. Aiman of Pendleton, and they have
two children, Frances and Morris.
James J. Netterville. It is highly probable that there are few
r'^sidents of Madison county who are unfamiliar with the name of James
J. Netterville. His is the name of a man, essentially self-made and the
term in this instance is used in the broadest application possil.ile, bring
that of one who in early life determined to win success if industry and
good management might be held as factors in the ultimate realization
of his ambition. With neither the prestige of family nor the opeu
sesame of money to aid him, he has made his way to the front ranks in
the citizenship of Anderson, and is today foremost among business and
political circles of the city.
Of Irish birth and parentage, Mr. Netterville was born in Ireland, on
February 7, 1849. He comes of a family whose paternal ancestors were
bom in that country. The paternal grandfather, Mr. Netterville, was a
well-to-do farmer and landlord in County Mayo, Ireland, and the father
was also engaged in the same vocation while he remained on the island.
374 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
but he migrated to America and settled in Pennsylvania, where he aied
in 1851. Following his death, his widow, who was Margaret Mui-phy in
her maiden days, took her two children to Canada in the fall of 1851,
and there made her home with her brother, who was livincr souie sixty
miles distant from Toronto. She came to Anderstii in 1887, where
she resided until her death. Besides James J., of this review, Mrs.
Netterville had one other son, Prank, who died at the age of four years.
Young Netterville continued to live in Canada until Le was twelve
years old, and at that early age he launched out in independejit life.
His first stop was at Detroit, Michigan, and there he was employed
as check boy at the American Exchange Hotel. After two years he
went to Chicago, and from thence to Milwaukee where he enlisted in
the regular army, serving three years in the reconstruction days fol-
lowing the Civil war. At the expiration of his term of service he re-
turned to Chicago. In that city Mr. Netterville received employment
as time keeper in the North Chicago Rolling Mills, but when the works
were destroyed by fire in 1871, he went to Cincinnati, there accepting
a position in the wholesale and retail dry goods house of H. B. Claflin
& Company, of New York City. It was while thus employed that he
met and married Miss Amanda, the daughter of James and Emily
(Ross) Smith. She was born in Boone township, Madison county, Indi-
ana, where her parents, who were well known farming people, were
pioneer settlers. Until 1875 Mr. NetterviUe continued in Ciucinnati,
and in that year with his wife he located in Anderson, and engaged
in the grocery business, investing his entire savings and available capital
in the business.
For two years he continued in that enterprise, but it failed to meet
his expectations in any way, so that he decided to dispose of it and for
some time engaged in farming. This, too, was not satisfactory to jMr.
Netterville, and he felt a strong inclination to yield to a latent desire
to study law. His indecision resulted in his beginning the study under
the tutelage of C. D. Thompson, long since deceased, and within a year
after he began his studies he was appointed deputy county clerk under
R. H. Hannah, then officiating, and continued in the office through the
administration of Mr. Hannah's successor, Jesse L. Henry. After
three years of service in the office of deputy clerk, he was appointed
Deputy County Treasurer under George Ross. In these departments
of public service he was afforded the best possible opportunity to be-
come acquainted with the people, and «o well did he utilize that oppor-
tunity that the Democratic convention of 1885 nominated him for county
clerk, and he was elected with a majority of 350, despite the fact that
certain of his fellow candidates for various other offices were ingloriously
defeated, some of them by majorities of four hundred, — a simple state-
ment, but highly indicative of the position of the man in the esteem of
his fellows. Mr. Netterville assumed the duties of his office in 1886,
and three years later he was renominated without serious opposition,
being elected by a pleasing majority. "When he was first the incum-
bent of a public office in Anderson the population of the city was 4,520,
and during the years of his service the city grew to something like
25,000, three deputies being required to carry on the work of the office
of county clerk.
• In 1887 Mr. Netterville bought the interests of Mr. Myers, then
Secretary of State, in the Weekly Democrat and became associated in
its publication with Dale J. Crittenden. In 1891 a daily edition of the
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 375
Democrat was launched, and when Mr. Crittenden was appointed post-
master of Anderson by Mr. Cleveland, the paper was sold to the Demo-
crat Company in 1893.
Mr. Netterville has been identified with the organization and opera-
tion of a number of the more important enterprises that are now in
operation in the city, and his relation to many of them today is a highly
influential one. He was a leader in the organization of the Anderson
Fuel Company, of which he became secretary, and which was organized
with a capital stock of $250,000, and owned twenty-five natural gas
wells. In 1896 he established the Netterville Insurance Agency, a con-
cern that rapidly assumed generous proportions and carried on a large
and lucrative business in the city. This was afterwards merged with
the Farmers' Trust Company, one of the leading banking institutions
of the city, and Jlr. Netterville is now president of the concern, with
George E. Nichol as secretary and treasurer, and A. T. Dye assistant
secretary-treasurer.
The Maplewood Cemeterj' Association was another enterprise with
which Mr. Netterville has been conspicuously identified, and as one of
the promoters of the Association has done excellent work for it since
the organization was efi'ected. A purchase was made of 300 acres of land
north of White river and just opposite the city, where is platted and
maintained one of the most beautiful cemeteries of the state. Mr. Netter-
ville is an active member of the executive committee, now serving as its
chairman.
In the line- of public service, his name has long been a prominent
one. In 1895, when Congress enacted a national income tax law, he
was <ippointed by President Cleveland collector of that tax in' Indiana,
and he served in that capacity until the Supreme Court declared the
law unconstitutional and therefore void. He was chairman of the
Board of Public Works of the City of Anderson from 1902 to 1906
and while serving in that position he planned and constructed the water
system that now furnishes pure and healthful water to the city. He
also made such other improvements in the public utilities. of the city as
to transform them from a revenue consuming to a revenue producing
basis. In 1910 Jlr. Netterrille was elected to the state legislature as
ioint senator from the counties of Henry and Madison, and was ap-
pointed by Governor Marshall a member of the legislative visiting com-
mittee of" 1911 to visit the various penal, benevolent, and correctional
and educational institutions of the state, and make i-ccommendations
as to their financial needs for the biennial period of 1912 and 1913.
And it is gratifying to add that these duties were so well performed
that Mr. Netterville was reappointed by the Governor to servo ou the
same committee for the legislature of 1913. He was appointed by the
Lieutenant-governor to a membership on the Penal Farm Commission,
of which he was afterward made chairman, and as such visited and
investigated the work farms and similar correctional institutions in
the United States and Canada. As a result of this investigation work
he caused a law to be enacted providing for a Penal Farm for the state
of Indiana, for the detention of short term jail prisoners, and this law
is regarded in the state as the most advanced prison reform measure
undertaken in Indiana in many years, and it is believed will go far
towards relieving the state of the odium of the present disgraceful
jail and prison system. In the sessions of 1911 "and 1913 Mr. Netter-
ville was an especially active and influential member, and he served
376 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
on many important committees in the senate, as well as serving as
chairman of the joint committees on Ways and Means of the House
and Finances of the Senate.
Mr. Netterville is a man who has ever displayed the utmost interest
in the securing of industrial establishments for the city of Anderson,
and has been influential in that good work to a large extent. With
Colonel Storer he platted Grandview addition of four hundred lots,
which has been long built up and is surrounded by such factories as the
Anderson Paper Company and the American Wire and Nail Company.
He is the owner of two fine business blocks on Meridian street and
it is undeniable that his enterprise along many lines has materially
aided in the splendid growth of his home city.
Mr. Netterville is a member of the Knights of Pythias, the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd FeUows, the Loyal Order of Moose, and the
Masonic orders, in which he is well advanced, and he is well known for
his advanced ideas of fratemalism and brotherhood. Politically, he
is a Democrat, as has been stated, and has been active in the party ranks
for years, serving as Chairman of the Cotinty Central Committee on a
number of occasions and on the State Committee. He is known for
a systematic and effective organizer, as well as a worker of the utmost
energy, and has represented his party in many state and cotmty con-
ventions.
Mr. Netterville was married July 15th, 1874, and five children have
come to them, three of whom are yet living. Their names, in the order
of their birth, are as follows: Lorena May, George F.; Victor Hugo,
James J. Jr., and Emily Ross. George and Victor are deceased, the
former dying at the age of seven and the latter when four years old.
The family home, which is one of the finest in the city, is located
on West Eleventh street.
Ernest M. Conrad, M. D. One of the old and honored families of
Madison county, members of which have been prominently identified
with agricultural pursuits, commercial and industrial activities, and
the various learned professions since the advent of the first pioneer is
that of Conrad. Among the worthy representatives of the name is
Ernest M. Conrad, M. D., physician and surgeon of Anderson, whose
. native ability and devotion to his calling have won him high distinction
in his profession.
Dr. Conrad was born near Lapel, Madison county, Indiana, February
20, 1870, the younger of the two sons of Zachriah and Emma (Wood-
ward) Conrad. His father, who was born in this county, in 1845,
became one of the prosperous farmers of the vicinity of Lapel, and later
in life turned his attention to mercantile pursuits, in which he achieved
an equal success. His death occurred in 1894, when the community
lost one of its most energetic and progressive citizens.
Ernest M. Conrad secured his early education in the country schools
near Lapel, and the high school at Anderson. In 1889, he became a
student in Depauw University at Greencastle, where his studies were
continued for three years. On leaving college and before preparing
himself definitely for his profession, he had one year of experience in
teaching school at Fishersburg. Then began his medical studies in the
Indianapolis Medical College. Prom that institution in 1897 he was
graduated M. D. and practiced at Maxwell until March, 1898, when,
desiring a wider field for his activities, he moved to Anderson. The
^ . I/LA- i^^d-t^c^Z..^i^Jl-.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 377
success that has attended Dr. Conrad's efforts demonstrates his excel-
lent choiee of a profession. He is a close student of his calling, keeps
fully abreast of the advancements that are continuaUy being made in
the science of medicine, his knowledge is comprehensive and accurate,
and his skill is demonstrated in the excellent success which has attended
his efforts in the sick room. He possesses marked judgment and dis-
cernment in the diagnosing of disease, and is peculiarly successful in
anticipating the issue of complications. Along professional lines he is
connected with the Madison County Medical Society, the Indiana State
Medical Society, and the American Medical Association, also having
membership with the Delta Upsilon College Fraternity. To no smaU
degree the success of Dr. Conrad has been due to his constant study and
ambition to keep abreast with the advance in medical knowledge.
Hardly a day passes in which he does not add something to his knowl-
edge and experience by personal observation and study, and he has also
taken three post-graduate courses, one in the College of Physicians and
Surgeons of New York City, and one in the New York Post-graduate
school, and another in the Harvard Medical College. At the present
time Dr. Conrad is giving special attention to internal medicine and
diseases of children. For seven years his professional services were
also directed to the public welfare as a member of the board of health
and for four years he served as coroner of Madison county, having been
elected on the Republican ticket.
Dr. Conrad has long been one of the Republican leaders in Madison
county. From 1902 to 1906 he was chairman and secretary of the
Republican County Central Committee, and in 1908 ag^in became chair-
man. Fraternally his relations are with the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks, and the loc-al lodge of the Woodmen of the World, in
both of which orders, he has numerous friends, as he has in all social
circles of Anderson. The doctor, besides his professional activities, has
interested himself in agriculture, being owner of a fine farm of one hun-
dred and twenty acres in Anderson township.
In 1897 Dr. Conrad married ]\Iiss Charity L. Gwinn of Madison
county, a daughter of Harvey Gwinn, an old resident and highly
esteemed citizen. To Dr. and Mrs. Conrad has been born one daughter;
Bemice E. Conrad. The present family residence is located at 2124
Meridian Street.
Silas R. Mauzy. The career of Silas R. Mauzy, of Adams township,
is illustrative of what may be accomplished by the man of energy and
industry, for from small beginnings he has built up a business that has
grown to such proportions as to give him the distinction of being the
largest shipper of livestock in Madison county. Not only has he gained
prestige in the business world, but in public life and social circles he
has won equal prominence, and no man in his section stands higher in
general public esteem. Mr. Mauzy was bom on a farm in Rush county,
Indiana, May 30, 1846, and is a son of Cornelius C. and Sarah (Gar-
retson) Mauzy.
Silas V. Mauzy, the grandfather of Silas R, of this sketch, was born
in Kentucky, and in young manhood came to Indiana with his first wife,
Rebecca Mauzy. After her death he returned to his native state and
there married a Miss Barnes, and once more came to Indiana, settling
in Rush county, where both passed awaj'. Cornelius C. Maiizy was
born in Kentucky, and was eight years of age when his mother died, he
378 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
being reared by his step-mother in Rush county. After his marriage,
which occurred in Rush county, he came to Madison county in 1852, —
and settled on a farm in Adams township, there spending the remainder
of his life in agricultural pursuits. He became one of the substantial
men of his community, engaged in general farming and stock dealing,
and at the time of his death was the ownier of 192 acres of good land.
Silas R. Mauzy was six years of age when he accompanied his par-
ents to Adams township, and here he secured his education in the dis-
trict schools during the short winter months, his sumjners being given
to the work on the home farm. Thus he became a thoroughly practical
agriculturist and expert stock dealer, and the latter occupation he has
made his life work. When he commenced his operations were carried
on on a modest scale, but gradually his business expanded, each year
seeing him widen the scope of his dealings, until he is now justly
acknowledged to be the largest handler of stock in Madison county,
buying cattle in St. Louis, Kansas City and Chicago, feeding them,
and shipping them to the various markets all ovc the country. An
idea of the extent of this enterprise may be gained from the fact that his
business has run as high as .$384,000 per annum. ]\Ii» Mauzy is known
as a skillful man of business, quick to grasp an opportunity, ever ready
and alert, but always fair and above-board in all his dealings. He has
won the confidence of his associates and those who have had trans-
actions with him, and his reputation is that of a man of business integ-
rity and personal probity. He has invested his means wisely in land,
owning 300 acres in Adams township, 140 acres being in the home farm.
This has been developed into one of the valuable properties of Adams
township and shows the care and good management which are
expended upon it.
Mr. Mauzy was married tirst to Miss Lou Ann Gilmore, who died
leaving one child : Fay, who became the wife of "Woody Cooper, and is
a graduate of the township schools. On July 3, 1892, Mr. IMauzy was
married to Jerusha Biddle, who was bom in Adams township, Madison
county, Indiana^ and is a sister of the Hon. Charles Biddle. One child
has been' bom to Mr. and Mrs. Mauzy; Cophine, who is a graduate of
the township schools and is now in her third year in the Pendleton
High school.
Mr. Mauzy has taken a prominent part in fraternal work, and at
this time is a popular member of Mechanicsburg Lodge Free and
Accepted Masons, Pendleton Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, No. 51, and
Pendleton Council, R. & S. M. He also belongs to the Improved Order
of Red Men, the Haymakers' Lodge, Active Lodge No. 746, Independ-
ent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he is past noble grand, Banner
Lodge No. 416, Knights of Pythias, at Anderson, and the Ancient Order
of United Workmen, in which he carries an insurance policy of $2,000.
In his political belief he was a Republican until the campaign, when
he cast his fortunes with the new Progressive party. His interest in
politics, however, is only that taken by everj' good citizen, as he has
been too busy with his private affairs to enter the public arena. Good
men and measures receive his hearty support, and he is justly consid-
ered one of his section's representative, public-spirited citizens.
Lewis Johnson. Prominent among the highly estec .ed agricul-
turists of Madison county who have won success through the medium
of energy, industry and well-applied exertion, Lewis Johnson, of Adams
A
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 379
township is deserving of more than passing mention in a work of this
nature. He has been a lifelong resident of this township, and has
witnessed and participated in the remarkable growth and development
of its interests, which have changed it during this time from what was
little more than a wilderness into one of the most flourishing and pros-
perous sections of the Hoosier State. Mr. Johnson was born in Adams
township, Madison county, Indiana. July 30, 1846, and is a son of
James and Amanda (Johnson) Johnson.
James Johnson was born in Jackson county, Kentucky, and as a
young man came to Madison county and located in Adams township,
having a farm on Fall Creek, where he spent his entire life. Here he
was married to Jane Johnson, who was born in Greenbrier county, Vir-
ginia, and came to Madison county in 1835, and she died when Lewis
Johnson was still a babe. Mr. Johnson, being thus deprived of mater-
nal care, was reared to manhood by his maternal grandmother, and
received his education in the district schools, although the greater part
of his schooling in his youth was in the school of hard work. He was
taught the numerous duties necessary for the good farmer to know,
and when about twenty-one years embarked upon a career of his own,
renting land, carrying on general farming, and engaging to some extent
in cattle trading, which later occupation' he has followed off and on
during his entire career. Being sober, honest and industrious, he man-
aged to accumulate enough money with which to purchase his first piece
of property, and as the years have passed he has added to this from time
to time, as his finances have pennitted, and has erected new buildings
and made other improvements on this land. This has resulted in the
development of a handsome farm, the appearance of which shows its
owner to be a man of intelligence and thrift, an able agriculturist and
an experienced manager, while his sleek, well-fed cattle give evidence
of his ability and good judgment in the line of stock raising. He has
always been ready to embrace new ideas and methods, believes firmly in
the use of modern machinery, and is justly considered one of the most
progressive men of his section.
j\Ir. Johnson was married to Miss Martha A. Slaughter, who was bom
in Madison county, Indiana, 'a daughter of James and Rebecca (Fessler)
Slaughter. The father was a native of Chester county, Pennsylvania,
and came to this count}- when he was eight years old. His father. John
Slaughter, entered land from the government. Two children were born
to James Slaughter and his wife, John, living in this county, and
Martha, who became Mrs. Johnson. The Slaughters are an old pioneer
family here. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. Johnson there have been
born four daughters and two sons, as follows: Carey A. ; Cora B. ; Georgi-
anna, a graduate of the Adams township public schools and the Pendleton
High school, who also took a course in the State University and is now
engaged in teaching in Adams township ; Everett L., a graduate of the
Pendleton High school and the State University, and also an Adams
township school teacher: Stella, who has been given a good education,
and now resides at ho!ne with her parents; and James L., who is engaged
in farming in Adams township.
In fraternal circles, ^Mr. Johnson is known as a valued member of
Ovid Lodge No. 164, Free and Accepted Masons. He is a man of broad
and liberal views, tolerant of the opinions of others. By his own in-
dustry he has won himself a competence and has reared a family that
is a credit both to himself and to the community in which they are
380 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
filling honorable places. Politically a Democrat, he has manifested a
commendable interest in affairs that afifect his community, and in addi-
tion to serving as assessor and deputy assessor acted as door-keeper in
the Fifty-third General Assembly of Indiana, in 1913. His wide circle
of friends testifies to his popularity, in which his wife and children
share.
Amos Underwood. About the best means by which a man can estab-
lish the highest credit for integrity and good citizenship, is to maintain
a long residence in one locality, where all his neighbors know hun under
a great variety of circumstances, test his reliability and still continue
to sustain him as a valued and valuable citizen. It is through this tfest
that Amos Underwood has been judged one of the leading agriculturists
of Adams township, while his reputation as a citizen is equaDy high.
He is now the owner of a well-cultivated property, situated on the north-
east one-quarter of section 31, where he has ever borne a reputation for
integrity in business dealings and probity of character. Mr. Underwood
was born March 20, 1858, in Hamilton county, Indiana, and is a son
of John and Catherine (Thomas) Underwood.
Amos and Mary Underwood, the paternal grandparents of Amos
Underwood, were natives of Pennsylvania, and some time after their
marriage migrated to Clinton county, Ohio, where they spent the re-
mainder of their careers in agricultural pursuits. They had children
as follows: Amos, Reuben, Isaac, John, Zephaniah, Edward, William,
Elisha, Percilla, Laura and Elihu, the last named of whom is still a
resident of Clinton county, Ohio, and owns the old homestead place.
John Underwood, father of Amos of this review, was born in High-
land county, Ohio, and was there married to Catherine Thomas, a native
of Green county, that state. About the year 1852 they migrated to
Hamilton county, Indiana, locating in Adams township, where they
continued to reside until their deaths. In addition to farming, Mr.
Underwood was a carpenter, a millwright and the proprietor of a mill,
built the first steam sawmill in Adams township, and was always known
as an industrious, energetic and successful man of business. He was a
faithful member of the Friends Church. He and his wife had eleven
children, as follows : Rebecca, who died in infancy ; Mary E., who also
died as a babe ; Lydia, who is the widow of John C. Kassabaum; Reuben,
who died at the age of seven years; Benjamin, who died in infancy;
Josephine, who became the wife of Charles Thistlethwaite ; Percilla, who
is the widow of Eli Hutchins; Harriet, who became the wife of Lenn
Ragon; Amos; John T., who is married and a farmer; and Hannibal,
who is deceased.
Amos Underwood was reared on his father's farm, and during his
youth worked on the home place during the summer months, his educa-
tional advantages being limited to occasional attendance at the district
schools during the short winter terms. He was early put to work at
farming, plowing, plainting, grubbing and harvesting, and the thousand
and one things that are found to occupy the time of an Indiana farmer's
son, thus thoroughly learning the duties of an agriculturalist which
have been of such great benefit to him in later life. He also was employe.d
in a tile mill in his youth, and after attaining his majority operated
a mill of that kind for a period of five years.
Mr. Underwood was married June 14, 1888, to Alice M. Davis, who
was born in Fall Creek township, Madison county, Indiana, February
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 381
28, 1865, a daughter of Washington Davis and Mary Davis, and was
educated in the Spring Valley school. To this union there have been
born two children: John W., born March 24, 1892, a graduate of the
common schools of Madison county, single, and engaged in agricultural
pursuits in Adams township ; and Mary C., born February 24, 1895, a
gradute of the common schools and Pendleton High School, and now
a student in Earlham College. Mrs. Underwood is a member of the
Friends Church. Her husband is a member of Sicilian Lodge No. 234,
Knights of Pythias. In politics he is a Prohibitionist, and has been
active in the ranks of his party in matters of local importance. In
addition to his home farm in Adams township, he has a well-cultivated
tract of eighty acres in section 27, Fall Creek township. As a general
farmer and stock raiser, he has met with uniform success in his various
operations, and is acknowledged to be a practical agriculturist and
excellent judge of livestock. During his long residence here, he has
made numerous friends, and no man stands higher in the general esteem
of the community.
Samuel Q. Makkle. During the past twenty years Adams town-
ship has been the field of endeavor of Samuel Quincy Markle, a man
of energy and push, who has been influential in business, political and
social circles, and who has added materially to the growth and develop-
ment of this section of Madison county. He belongs to one of the. old
and honored families of this part of the state, whose members have
been noted for their honesty, their integrity, as well as for their promi-
nent connection with commercial, agricultural and professional activities.
As a worthy representative of this name, he is worthy of and receives
the esteem of his fellow-citizens.
John Markle, the paternal grandfather of Samuel Q. Markle, was
a native of New York State, and in young manhood came to Madison
county, here becoming a pioneer farmer. He became well known to the
citizens of this vicinity, arose to a position of prominence, and eventually
the town was named in his honor, Markleville. Among his children
was Samuel Markle, the father of Samuel Q. Samuel Markle followed
in the footsteps of his father, taking up agricultural pursuits, and fol-
lowed this vocation throughout a long and honorable career. He married
Miss Ann Riggs, and they had a family of eleven children, of whom
eight are living in 1913 : Laura, who became the wife of Mahlon Maine ;
Madeline, who is the wife of Jacob Swingle ; Loretta, who married Jacob
Keesling; Delia, who became the wife of Harry Blake; Ella, the wife
of D. Fesler ; Quincy ; James and Henry.
Samuel Quincy Markle, or Quincy Markle as he is better known,
was reared on the farm of his birth, situated about one and one-half
miles north of Markleville. and there received his education in the dis-
trict schools. He was reared to the work of the home farm, and as
was the custom of farmers' youths of his day and locality spent the
long summer months in assisting his father and brothers on the home-
stead, his opportunities for an education being limited to the short winter
terms in the nearby schools. He was ambitious and industrious, made the
most of his chances, and thus acquired a good fund of practical knowl-
edge. In 1892, with his three brothers, James, Henry and Albert, the
last-named of whom is now deceased, he entered the sawmill business.
None of the brothers at that time had much money to invest, but a small
mill was purchased for $400, for a part of which sum they went into debt,
382 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and out of this humble beginning has grown the large enterprise that
now bears their name. In addition to the large sawmill located near
Markleville, they are now the owners of farms near that place, to the
east, deal extensively in lumber, and have carried on much profitable
contract work. Mr. Markle is recognized by his associates as a shrewd,
astute man of business, with the ability to recognize an opportunity,
the courage to grasp it, and the business capacity to carry it through
to a successful termination. His career has been but another example
of the successful business man coming from the farm, and through his
achievements he has won the right to the title of self-made man.
In 1888, Mr. Markle was united in marriage with JMiss Eva J. Van-
Dyke, and to this union there have been born six children, namely :
Merle, Oren, Florence; Agnes, Ward and Paul. Mr. ]\Iarkle is a con-
sistent member of the Baptist Church, which his wife and children also
attend, and which all the members of the family have liberally supported.
His fraternal connection is with Markleville Lodge No. 629, Free and
Accepted Masons, in which he has a number of warm friends. In his
political views he is independent, believing in exercising his prerogative
of voting for the man he deems best fitted for the office, irrespective of
party lines. His interest in politics has been only that of a good citizen,
but he has never withl^eld his support from any measure or movement
which his judgment has told him will eventually work out for the better-
ment of the community in which he has made his home all of his life.
Adams township has no more representative or popular citizen.
John W. Lambert, originator of the famous Lambert Patented
Friction Transmission, and treasurer and general manager of the Buck-
eye ^Manufacturing Company. The "Sage of East Aurora" has said:
"To achieve fame, seek out an unpopular cause that you know is right;
then work for it, live for it, die for it." There is something reflecting
this thought underlying the struggles of tliose pioneers of industrial
progress who have had the hardihood to disagi-ee with established ideas
and processes and substitute for them new methods and revolutionary
inventions. Through years of discouragement and ridicule, Alexander
Bell brought his telephone to final public acceptance, and today many
will agree that he is the greatest benefactor of modem business. But
a short time ago, Peter Cooper built a locomotive and dreamed of trans-
continental traffic. Luxurious trains now take us from New York to
San Francisco in five days — a forceful tribute to the far-sightedness
of this pioneer who dared work against public sentiment that the wheels
of progress might revolve with greater speed. There are those living
who laughed at the "impossible" invention of Samuel Morse. We all
remember the public skepticism that preceded the epoch-making achieve-
ment of Marconi.
The point is that these men, with scores of others like them, believed
in their ideas and fought for them through every sort of discouragement
until success and approval finally smiled upon them. From their efforts
we draw a lesson that, even in our smaller, more prosaic undertakings,
cannot fail to leave its impress upon our work. Things worth while
seldom come easily or over night. And just as there seems to be some-
thing inherent in mankind that scoffs at the attempts of our giant
brothers to overturn established practices, just so does i' seem to be
the habit of the big men of all times to keep on and on. unmindful of
discouragements, overcoming barriers, hopeful and confident of making
HISTORY Ot MADISON COUNTY 383
tlu'ir drt'iiius come true. Big men are attracted to the big problems.
Bridge Imilding, canal digging, railroad construction, and, more re-
cently, automobile building, have drawn the daring masters of com-
merce, tlie seekers after the romantic in business.
Even in the pioneer days of the automobile business, certain conven-
tions of construction were established. Some of these were uprooted
earl.v to be succeeded by ^the improvements that necessarily follow in
the rapid development of a new world — industry. Others, though thought
l)y many to be basicly wrong, held on and even to this day few have had
the hardihood to attempt the changes that mean so much opposition
on tile part of those who decry a disturbance of set methods. But the
business, since its inception, has attracted maiiy men who have not been
content to Iniild on tlie ideas of others. For the most part they have
placed "the game for the game's sake." They have found no joy or
profit in their work except as they might discover faults and remedies
for them ; except as they might plan innovations and, after a hard
struggle, put them "over the plate."
Twenty years ago — almost a life-time as things are reckoned in the
automobile world — a man of this type began building a self-propelled
vehicle at Anderson, Indiana, where he was alread.v regarded as one
of the successful manufacturers of the town. To be sure, he did not
spend his time experimenting with a conventional car. Cut and dried
methods did not appeal to him in the least. It was a three-wheeler to
which he turned his thoughts and his inventive capacities. And he
built a successful three-wheeled car, only to abandon the idea, as a
whole, on the grounds that his deeper study of the market failed to
show him the necessary commercial possibilities of a vehicle of that
tj'pe. But that abandoned three-wheel enterprise formed the founda-
tion of a business toda^y grown to sturdy proportions. The present
Lambert pleasure cars and power wagons, known wherever automobiles
are bought and sold, are its proud successors in the affections and in-
terests of the man whose name they bear, John Lambert. Even during
the time he was trying to perfect a three-wheeled car that would be
practicable and marketable, Jlr. Lambert had his attention focused
upon certain features of cohventionable automobile construction that he
knew to be sources of certain trouble and confusion, and which he in-
tuitively felt could and should be remedied. Many improvements, now of
universal adoption, are products of his thought and industry ; but,
without doubt, his most important invention is what is now known in
the trade as "The Lambert Patented Frictioji Transmission."
In his earlier work, Mr. Lambert used in the cars he built the usual
type of gear transmission. That he abandoned it is, in itself, a forceful
argument in favor of the simpler form of transmitting power from
engine to driving mechanism, based on the time-tried principle of fric-
tion. His mechanical mind grasped the idea that the tendency in auto-
mobile construction should be toward simplicity. He foresaw that a
universal use of power-driven vehicles depended upon a reduction of
up-keep and maintenance costs, rather than upon a lowered cost of
first production of selling ]irices. He knew that there were thousands
of men who could afford to buy a car. but who could not afford to
run the gauntlet of expense necessary to maintain one, based on the
then tremendous outlay for broken and worn-out parts due to compli-
cated construction and to the lack of mechanical knowledge and skill
of these w'ho wished to do their own driving. This amounted to a con-
384 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
vietion, and he decided at once to begiu the experimeutal work that has
since resulted in the perfection of the simple, powerful, fool-proof and
safe Lambert friction transmission. The greatest difficulties encountered
in attaining success for his product lay more in convincing the public of
its value than in perfecting it mechanically — just a repetition of the
difficulties that the pioneers of progress have been up against for all
time.
Practically all other builders of automobiles employed the gear type
of transmission. Many of them, due to the tremendous popularity of
the automobile itself, and the unexpected demand that characterized its
earlier history, were highly successful from the standpoint of large
output and high profits. People unfamiliar with mechanics and me-
chanical principles reasoned that if the friction type of transmission
had such extraordinary advantages as were claimed for it, why were not
these large builders using it?
Naturally, those who had automobiles to sell wanted to sell their
own. They laughed at the Lambert form of transmission. Many
"knocked" it outright without reason or thought; others damned it
with faint praise ; all refused to see, or at least to recognize its superior
points until there grew up among users, dealers and manufacturers a
prejudice against it. But this did not, by any means, discourage the
Lamberts. Though theirs was the only concern using this transmission
innovation; though they were compelled to fight this commercial battle
alone and unaided, they knew the principle of their invention as well as
the application was right ; and they knew that ultimately a proper and
just recognition would come. That correct theory and right judgment
will rise to the surface of universal usage is an inexorable law. And so
they continued to employ in their pleasure cars their simple friction
device. Each year saw an increasing output; each season a growing
tendency toward greater public favor. Thej' built into every part of
their product an honesty of intent and purpose that gradually won
for them an honorable standing, not only among those who used their
car, but among competing manufacturers as well. They built strain-
bearing parts more heavily; they sought to simplify construction
wherever it could be done without sacrifice of strength or efficiency ;
they used better materials than most of the manufacturers who pro-
duced cars of their price — better iron, better steel, better tires, better
axles.
Early and late, season after season, they planned to build each car
better than its predecessor, to produce a line of models that would,
more nearly than any other, meet the needs and requirements- of those
to whom they sought to sell. Today finds their plant a busy hive of
industry, filled \vith an army of hurrying workmen, behind orders nearly
every day in the year, and with plans for expansion and increased output
that will satisfy the hundreds of dealers who are clamoring for their
line.
Today we find the old prejudice against the friction system of trans-
mission practically laid to rest among the other ghostly impediments of
progress, with scores of successful manufacturers of both pleasure and
commercial cars adopting it without fear of outcome, and the Lamberts
fighting in the courts of the land to retain, under their patents, the fruits
of their labors and brains. The very disputing of their el ms may be
taken as a public recognition of the worth of their invention.
Since Mr. Lambert began the manufacture of automobiles at Ander-
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 385
son, he has seen the town grow into an important center for the produc-
tion, not only of finished accessories and parts of varied character and
large output that have won well merited fame and found their way
into the wide markets of the world, but of cars other than his ovm.
John W. Lambert was bom in Champaign county, Ohio, January 29,
1860, son of George and Anna (Liber) Lambert, natives of Pennsyl-
vania and early settlers of the Buckeye State. He received his education
in the public schools of his native state, and then went to Union City,
where he formed a partnership with his father, and under the firm style
of J. W. Lambert & Company, engaged in the manufacture of fork
handles and spokes. Subsequently, he moved to Ohio City, where he
was for some time. He conclucted an agricultural implement store and
grain elevator, and in 1893, came to Anderson from Union City, moving
a part of the machinerv' from the plant at that place to Anderson, this
being the nucleus for the present plant. This now covers six acres,
is brick construction, and equipped with the most modem machinery of
every kind, 250 people being employed in the works. In 1893 it was
incorporated under the firm name of the Buckeye Manufacturing Com-
pany and the Lambert Gas and Gasoline Engine Company, and recently
the plant has been equipped for the manufacture of automobiles, a
very superior car being turned out. The capital stock of this- concern
is $100,000. and the present officers are as follows: B. P. Lambert, presi-
dent ; George A. Lambert, seeretai-y ; John W. Lambert, treasurer and
general manager. Among his associates John W. Lambert is known as
a man of force of will, possessed of the courage of his convictions. It
will be seen from a perusal of the foregoing sketch that faith in self
and indomitable perseverance have no small place in his character,
qualities that have unlocked for him the portals of success and brought
out some of its rich treasures. Aside from his business his chief pleas-
ure is his home, and his handsome city residence, located at No. 705
Hendricks street, and surrounded by beautiful shade trees, is one of
the finest in the city.
In 1884 Mr. Lambert was married to Miss Mary P. Kelly, of Ansonia,
Ohio, daughter of T. T. Kelly. Two children have been bom to this
union, namely : E. ]\Ioe and Roy, who are associated with their father in
business. They are manufacturers of gas engines, stationary and port-
able farm tractoi-s and commercial motor trucks, railroad inspection
cars and gasoline street cars.
Henry P. Hardie. Among the capable public officials of Madison
county who are discharging the duties of high public positions with
fidelity and efficiency, none is held in higher esteem than Henry P.
Hardie, the postmaster of Anderson, a man who has long been identified
with the business interests of the city. He is a native of England,
bom at Woolwich in county Kent, in Pebruary, 1867. His parents were
Henry and Marj' (Johnson) Hardie, natives of England, the former
being for a number of years employed in the Illinois Steel Company's
works at Joliet, Illinois. He came to Anderson in 1889 and secured
employment in the steel and nail works here, continuing with that
company until his death, in 1905. His widow .still survives, and now
makes her home in Anderson.
IIenr>' P. Hardie was brought to the United States by his parents
when still a child, and his education was secured in the public and high
schools of Joliet, Illinois. After his graduation from the latter he was
386 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
employed for five years in the steel mills at Joliet. In 1889 he came
to Anderson and was made foreman of the shipping department of the
rolling mill, a position which he held for eleven years. In 1900 he
became the bookkeeper for the Terre Haute Brewing Company, a posi-
tion which he continued to fill for six years, then becoming assistant
manager of the business. In 1906 he was appointed city comptroller
of the city of Anderson, under Mayor J. H. Terhune, and acted in that
capacity for three years, and Mr. Terhmie then dying Mr. Hardie by
virtue of his office became mayor and filled out the unexpired term
of one year. On the completion of his term as mayor he embarked in
the real estate and fire insurance business with a Mr. Luse. under the
firm style of Luse & Hardie, and this association has continued with
mutual success to the present time. Mr. Hardie assumed his duties as
postmaster of Anderson in 1912, for a term of four years, and has been
rendering his city excellent service in the handling of the mails. A
courteous, obliging official, with a high conception of the duties of public
service, he has made an excellent record, and Anderson has had no
more popular public servant. For eight years he also served as police
commissioner, under two appointments by Governor Mount, and a third
under Governor Durbin. He is a Republican in his political views, but
he has friends among all political parties.
On the 14th of October, 1889, Mr. Hardie was united in marriage
with Miss Susan Harris, of Anderson, a daughter of Richard Harris,
an old and honored resident of this city and who for many years was
manager of the Steel Wire and Nail Works. One son has been bom
to Mr. and Mrs. Hardie, Harry R., who is now engaged in the real
estate and insurance business in this city. Mr. Hardie has for a number
of years been prominent in Masonry, and now holds membership in Mt.
Moriah Lodge, No. 77, A. F. & A. M. ; Anderson Chapter, No. 52, R. A.
M. ; Anderson Commandery, No. 32, K. T. ; and Murat Temple, A. A.
O. N. M. S., Indianapolis. He is also a member of Anderson Lodge, No.
209, B. P. 0. E., and Banner Lodge, No. 416, K. of P. He is a member
of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, of Anderson.
C. B. Pendleton, M. D. Among the men of Madison county who
have won positions of prestige in various lines of endeavor through the
exercise of native ability, good judgment and constant integrity. Dr. C.
B. Pendleton, of Adams township, holds prominent place. A member of
a family that had been -connected with the growth and development
of this section for more than eighty years, he has steadfastly maintained
the family reputation for public spirit and personal probity, and no
man stands in higher esteem in the medical profession, in agricultural
affairs or in public life. He was born on the home farm in Adams town-
ship, Madison county, Indiana, which had been entered in 1830 by his
paternal grandfather, John B. Pendleton. His father, A. E. Pendleton,
was born in 1830 on this farm, was here reared and educated, and on
growing to manhood was married to Mary A. Richwine, bj- whom he
had nine children, of whom four are living in 1913 : Dr. C. B. ; C. V.,
who makes his home at Rochester, Indiana; Dr. O. F., a retired dentist
now living in Northern California ; and Nina J., who is the wife of John
J. McClure, of Los Angeles, California.
Curtis Bern Pendleton attended the district schools during the
winter terms, and in the sununer months assisted his father in the
work of the home farm. Subsequently he became a student in the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 387
National Normal school at Lebanon, Ohio, and for some years thereafter
was ong'aged in teaching- public schools in Henry, Madison and Fulton
counties. Later, deciding upon a medical career, he entered the Physio-
Medical College of Indiana, and after his graduation therefrom entered
upon the practice of his profession at Mechanicsburg, Indiana, where
he remained for twenty years. Following this he became a farmer and
for eight years was engaged in tilling the soil of Adams township.
Although he had always been an independent voter, on May 13, 1912,
he was elected trustee of Adams township on the Republican ticket,
and has continued to hold this offiee to the present time. At the time
of his election he located at Markleville, where he discharges the duties
of his office and looks after the needs of a large and representative med-
ical practice. He was a member of the First District ]\Iedical Associa-
tion, and at one time was president of the State Physio-Medical Asso-
ciation, of which he is still a member. He also holds membership in
Mechanicsburg Lodge. No. 327, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in
which he is past noble grand, is also a member of the Encampment,
and with his wife is a member of the Rebekahs, in which she is past
noble grand. Dr. Pendleton is the owner of eighty acres of land and his
wife of seventy acres, all this propertj" being under a high state of cul-
tivation. It is devoted principally to general farming, but they have
also had success in breeding stock, principally thoroughbred Duroc
hogs. As a physician Dr. Pendleton is a close student, an able practi-
tioner and a steady-handed surgeon, and as such has become widely
known in the ranks of his profession, holding a high place in the esteem
of his confreres and that of the public at large.
Dr. Pendleton was married to Miss Flora B. Reed, daughter of Dr.
W. C. Reed, of Mechanicsburg. She was born in Henry county, Indiana,
and there educated in the district schools, subsequently taking a course
in the Mechanicsburg schools. Three children have been bom to Dr.
and Mrs. Pendleton: Dorothy F., a graduate of the' Middleton High
school and later a teacher, is now the wife of C. R. Keesling. of New
York City. Leo E. married Miss Hallie Painter, a graduate of the
Hartford City, Indiana, schools, and subsequently a teacher therein,
daughter of Joseph Painter,' of Hartford City. They have one child,
Lois E. George H., who pursued the agricultural course in Purdue
University, and is now engaged in farming in Adams township. He
man-ied Miss Agnes Copeland, of Hancock ♦iounty, Indiana, who was
formerly a high school teacher. The members of this family are all
widel.v known and highly respected in ^ladison county, where their
friends are only limited to the number of their acquaintances.
Thomas Jenkins Doty, a well known farming man and a pioneer
resident of Green township, Madison county, was born near the place
where he now makes his home, on August 25, 1838. He is the son of
John and Sarah A. (Parsel) Doty, both natives of Pennsylvania, who
came to Madison county some time prior to 1838, and here lived the
remainder of their lives. John Doty entered government land and
established a home on the virgin soil of Indiana, ultimately gaining a
prominent place in the agricultural activities of the county in which
he located with his family. He became the father of nine children, two
of which number are living at the present time (1913). One of the
two is Margaret Doty, who never married, and who makes her home
with Tiiomas J. Doty, her brother.
388 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Thomas J. Doty was reared on the farm where he now lives aud his
early education was received in the local schools, being somewhat limited
in its scope as a result. He helped his father to improve the government
homestead upon which they settled, and in time, as owner of the place,
came to reap the further benefits of his early years of toil on the old
farm. He continued with his mother until he had become of age, his
father having died when he was a boy of tender years, and set out for
himself in the activities of life. With the call of President Lincoln for
troops in April, 1861, Mr. Doty was among the first to respond, and
he was with Captain Edwards in Company B of the Second Indiana
Cavalry. He took an active part at Chickamagua and remained in the
service until the end of the war, being one of those to receive a pension
from the government for his service at that crucial time. Upon the
close of the war he settled down to farm life once more, and though he
was utterly lacking in capital, he met with success in the agricultural
industry. In recent years he has been retired from active farm life,
but still retains his fine place of one hundred and forty-six acres in
Green township.
Mr. Doty was married on February 28, 1878, to Miss Sarah A. Davis,
who was bom in Fall Creek township, a daughter of Bailey Davis. To
Mr. and Mrs. Doty four children have been born, concerning whom
mention is made briefly as follows : Arlie, the eldest, is a graduate of
the common schools of this community, and is married to Ida Miller, and
is engaged in farming in Green tovmship. Vinnie is the wife of Ott
Kinkade, living in Fall Creek township. Anna is the wife of Walter
Reidenbach and lives in Hamilton county, Indiana, and LoucUa is the
wife of Ira Schmiler, of IngaDs.
Mr. Doty is a member of the G. A. R. and attends the Methodist
church. He is a stanch Republican in his politics and is one of the
valued citizens of Green township, where he has passed his long and
useful life thus far.
John H. Ratmer. No more honored tod respected citizen might
be pointed out in Green township than John H. Raymer, who has been
a resident of the county since about 1860, or since he was eighteen years
of age. He was born in Maryland, on September 20, 1843, and is the
son of W. P. and Lena (Prior) Raymer, both of whom were born and
reared in Maryland. Th^y came to Montgomery county, Ohio, where
they passed the remainder of their lives, which had been devoted to
the business of farming. W. P. Raymer was a man of prominence in
his community to the last day he lived. He was a leader in politics,
active and responsible in his work for the party, which was that of the
Democracy, and was in many ways regarded as a valuable man to his
town and county. He and his wife were members of the German
Reformed church. They became the parents of nine children, three of
whom are living at this writing (1913). Silas, one of the three, is a
resident of North Dakota; Sarah J. is the wife of Gideon Coblin, and
lives at Bradford, Ohio; and John H. is the subject of this review.
John H. Raymer was a youth of eighteen years when he accompanied
his parents from Maryland, his birth state, to Ohio, where the family
settled. He had learned carpentering in Maryland and upon coming
to Ohio devoted himeslf to that work. He did not stop lo ' in Ohio,
but soon came to Indiana, locating in Madison county, and here, on
June 11, 1868, he married Emma L. Scott. She was bom on September
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 389
4, 1851, in the house where they now live, and was a daughter of
Thomas and Rebecca (Stowell) Scott. The young couple settled down
to housekeeping on the farm where they live today, and there they
reai-ed a family of eleven children, of whom eight are living in 1913.
They are named as follows: Carlos S. Raymer, who is post master at
Ingalls; jMinnie S. is the wife of E. P. Myers, an attorney at Elwood,
Indiana; Nora I. is the wife of W. A. Myers, superintendent of the
Hartford City (Indiana) Schools; he is a graduate of the State Univer-
sity of Indiana; Alta J. is the wife of Samuel Garrett; Nettie C. is
the wife of Newton Catty of Fall Creek township ; John T. is married
and lives in Green township ; Earl E. lives at home, as does also Scott
P., both of whom are unmarried. ■
The family are membei-s of the Methodist Episcopal church at Pall
Creek, and Mr. Raynaer is a member of the official board of that body.
He is a Progressive in his politics and has been active in a political way
all his mature life. Mr. and Mrs. Raymer are pleasant and admirable
people, who have reared a most creditable family, and they are among
the most highly esteemed citizens of the township, to which they have
given many of the best years of their life, and in whose better interests
they have never failed to take an active and telling part. They have
prospered in their work, and in addition to material advancement have
the greater possessions of good names and pleasing places in the hearta
of their fellow townspeople.
C. S. Raymer, post master of the town of Ingalls and one of the
prominent young men of the town, was born in Green township on
June 7, 1869, and is' a son of John H. and Emma L.' (Scott) Raymer,
of this township, concerning whom detailed mention is made in another
sketch appearing in this biographical work. Further facts vdth regard
to the parentage and ancestry of the subject are therefore unnecessary
at this juncture.
Mr. Raymer was the eldest of the family of his parents, and he was
reared on the home farm, where he was early trained in the business of
farming. He received a good common school education in the seasons
snatched from attention to farm duties, and continued to work on the
farm with his father until his marriage, which event took place on
June 29, 1890, when Amanda House, a daughter of Wilbam R. House,
became his wife. She was educated in the common schools, like himself,
and has many friends in the community, where she has long been known.
Two children have been born to them — -Violet, a graduate of the Ingalls
school, who is the wife of Jadie Gregory, and Hobart, now a student in
the Pendleton high school.
Mr. and Mrs. Raymer are members of the Methodist church, and
Mr. Raymer is active in Republican politics in his section. In the cam-
paign of 1912, however, he cast his vote with the Progressive party. In
connection with his ofiScial duties he carries on the work of his farm,
which, though small, is a well kept and productive place.
Martin Luther Goodykoontz. A native sou of Anderson town-
ship vs-ho has spent his entire career in this section of Madison county,
Mr. Goodykoontz stands in the front rank of the agriculturists of his
communit3', and through his work in developing his present fine prop-
erty of one hundred and forty-five acres is entitled to mention among
the men who have contributed to the prosperity of their township and
390 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
county. He was born on the 25th of Jlareh, 1858, just one mile east of
his present farm, on a property which his grandfather, Jacob Goody-
koontz, had entered from the government. He is a son of Daniel and
Nancy (Watkins) Goodykoontz.
Jacob Goodykoontz, the grandfather, was born in Floyd county,
Virginia, and brought his family to Madison county about 1830. For
many years the name was well represented here, but at this time they
are widely scattered and Martin Luther is the only member of his imme-
diate family found in Madison county. Daniel Goodykoontz was born in
Floyd county, Virginia, and was a lad of eight j-ears when he accom-
panied his parents to Madison county. Here he was reared and educated
and here married Nancy Watkins, a Madison county girl. He continued
to be engaged in agricultural pursuits throughout his active career, and
was known as one of the substantial men and public-spirited citizens of
his community. He and his wife became the parents of two children,
Martin L. and William Arthur, but the latter died when only one year
old.
Martin L. Goodykoontz was born in a pioneer log cabin and grew
to manhood in the uncultivated community of his native place, being
reared to habits of industry and economy. He attended the common
schools during the winter terms and spent his summers in assisting
his father, and when he reached his majority engaged in agricultural
pursuits on his own account. He has improved all his land, now some
of the best to be found in the township, and has engaged extensively in
general farming operations and in breeding Short-Horn cattle and other
good breeds of stock. He uses modem methods and machinery, has im-
proved his farm with buildings of a substantial character, and through
good management and persistent effort has made a success of all his
ventures.
On October 30, 1895, Mr. Goodykoontz was married to Miss Orpha
Malone, a daughter of Eleazer and Elizabeth iKinsey) Jlalone, natives of
Frederick county, Maryland, who migrated fii-st to Pennsylvania, thence
to Indiana, in about 1836, and in 1865 came to Madison county, Indiana.
Mr. and Mrs. Malone had the following named children : William, who
is deceased : Hiram ; James, deceased ; Adolphus : Joseph ; ilary and
Anna who are deceased; John, deceased; Charles: Sarah C, now
Mrs. Edmund Jeffries of Montsea, Pennsylvania; Orpha, now Mrs.
Goodykoontz ; and Elizabeth, now IMrs. Daglish. Mr. and Mrs. Goody-
koontz have no children, but have reared two adopted daughters, Venit-a
Sapp and Bessie Tindall.
, Mr. Goodykoontz is a stockholder and director in the Farmers Trust
Company of Anderson, and he is a Democrat in his political affiliations.
He has always kept in touch with the live political and civic interests of
the day, but has not entered public life as a seeker after office. He is
essentially a home man, being content to devote his energies to the culti-
vation of his land. An automobile enthusiast, he finds that his hand-
some Buick ear not only affords the means of recreation but is a great
help in his business affairs. With his wife he attends the Methodist
Episcopal church.
Wesley White, Jr. For more than half a century the White
family has been identified with Madison county, and alway^ with the
larger activities of farming and count-y life. Wesley White, Jr., is
one of the Grand Armv men still li ing in this eountv and has a
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 391
splendid country home in Green township. He has known Madison
county since before the war, and has not only witnessed practically
everj' important phase in the development of the region from the wilder-
ness, but has borne his individual share of the labors and responsibilities
in this work.
Wesley White, Jr., was bom on a farm in Rush county, Indiana,
August 15, 1844, and was one of the children in the family of the late
Wesley White, Sr., and his wife, Lydia Nicholson White. Wesley
White, Sr., was born in the state of Virginia in 1802, and his wife was
born in Ohio in 1803. The father moved from Virginia to Ohio, and
when still a single man came west to Indianapolis about the time Indian-
apolis was established as the capital of Indiana, and in that city he
found emplojment by assisting in the construction of the first court
house there. Subsequently he returned to Ohio, was married in that
state, and then brought his wife and family out to Rush county, Indiana.
There he bought a quarter section of land and made it his home for
fifteen years. Selling out his interests in Rush county, he came to
Madison county, and paid $900.00 for one hundred and sixty acres. He
kept adding to this original body of land until at one time he possessed
1,800 acres all in one piece. Practically all the land was covered with
heavy timber when he bought it, and as a . practical lumberman he
established a saw mill in his woods, and for about ten years was engaged
in working up all this timber into lumber. Much of the lumber which
can now be found in some of the oldest houses in the county was the
product of the White mills and came off the stumpage on the original
White estate. The senior White was a man of large business enterprise,
as the preceding statements would indicate, and at the same time was
very liberal and public spirited. He was held in the high esteem pf his
entire community, and was always an active member and contributed
to the Methodist church. In poHties he was a staunch Republican
after the formation of that party. There were nine children in the
family and four are living in 1913. Mary is the widow of William
Brattain and a resident in Hamilton county, Indiana; Linnia is the
widow of Isaac Brattain and a resident of Pendleton, Indiana; Wesley,
Jr., is nest among those now living; and Lydia J. is the wife of John
Smithers of Pendleton.
Wesley White, Jr., was two years old when his parents came to
Indiana in 1846, and for that reason he has almost a claim to this county
as his birthright place of residence. On the old homestead he grew to
manhood and as opportunity permitted attended the district schools.
When he was eighteen years old, the Civil war having come on and
distracted the countrj^ he enlisted in Company I of the Seventy-fifth
Indiana Infantry in July, 1862. His service was in Kentucky and
Tennessee and continued up to March, 1863. He was taken down with
the fever and received an honorable discharge on March 10, 1863. On
returning home from his military career he engaged in farming and
subsequently moved to Noblesville, Indiana, where he made his home
for twelve years. He then returned to the farm in Green township,
where he still resides. He possesses one hundred and seventy-three
acres, has some of the best land in the township, and cultivates it accord-
ing to the best method approved by his long experience, and by the
general science of modem agriculture. He is operating the farm for
himself.
On March 28, 1867, Mr. White was married to Lucinda Stem, of
392 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Hamilton county, Indiana, where she was born and reared, a daughter
of Samuel and Jane Stem. Her father was born in Pennsylvania and
her mother in Marion county, Indiana. Mrs. White received her edu-
cation in the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. "White are the parents of
two children, now living. Fannie is the wife of Frank Anderson and
lives in Noblesville ; Harvina, a graduate of the Noblesville high school,
is the wife of Jess Anderson, and they make their home with her father
on the White farm in Green township. There is one granddaughter,
Pauline, who was bom August 9, 1907. Mr. White and family are
members of the Christian church, and he is affiliated with Pendleton
Post, No. 230, of the Grand Army of the Republic. In polities he votes
as a Republican and has served as sujiervisor of his home township.
O. B. CusTEE. The citizenship of Fall Creek township has no
member more respected and esteemed, both for his individual worth
and his many kindly and disinterested service in behalf of his friends
and the community, than Mr. 0. B. Custer.
He was bom near Mortonsville, Indiana, August 9, 1838, and was
a son of William and Judah (Ken die) Custer. William Custer, the
father, was a native of Kentucky, bom near Georgetown, and early in
life came to Indiana, locating in Fayette county. In that county he
married Miss Kendle and spent the rest of his life as a farmer in that
locality. By ancestry he was a descendant of German stock. There
were five children in the family and the two now living are 0. B. and
James, the latter being a resident of Des Moines, Iowa.
Mr. 0. B. Custer was reared on a farm and during the winter months
attended district schools. When still a boy he began earning his own
way, and he has known the practical duties of a farm from earliest
boyhood. He lived at home until he was twenty-six years of age, and
after he attained his piajority he was engaged in buying and selling
horses for several years. He has always been a lover of horse flesh and
an excellent judge of the best points of a horse. On March 9, 1863,
he married Miss Louisa Isgrigg, who was bom in Fayette county,
Indiana, June 6, 1844. Catherine Caldwell Isgrigg, the mother of Mrs.
Custer, died July 26, 1913, at the advanced age of 93 years. Mrs.
Custer received her education in the public schools of her native county
and was a daughter of Daniel Isgrigg. After their marriage Mr. Custer
turned his attention to farming, though he also continued as a stock
dealer. In the winter of 1866 he moved to Madison county, locating in
Fall Creek township, which locality has been his residence for more
than forty -six years. He and his wife are the parents of two daughters :
Edna B., who graduated from the common schools and is now the wife
"of Lewis Rogers; Mota D., the wife of Warren Copper, she being now
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Custer have one grandchild, Glenn M., who is
a graduate of the Anderson high school. Mrs. Custer is a member of
the Christian church. Mr. Custer is active in fraternal affairs, being
a member of Madison Lodge, No. 44, A. F. & A. M., at Pendleton,
Chapter No. 51, R. A. M., and of Fall Creek Council, No. 43, R. & S. M.
In politics he is a Democrat and has cast his vote for good government
and never been interested particularly in party affairs. He is the
owner of a nice little farm of forty-five acres in Fall Cre \ township,
and he and his wife have a comfortable home and enjoy ttie esteem of
a large community of friends.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 393
Henry Clay Brown. A life long resident of Madison county and
for many years a progressive farmer of Pall Creek township, Henry
Clay Brown has enjoyed the best elements of success, having acquired
a good home, having given his family the comforts of living and educa-
tion, and having steered an honorable and straightforward course
throughout his own career.
Henry Clay Brown was born in Anderson township, Madison county,
June 12, 1852, a son of Warner and Lavina (Clark) Brown. Both
parents were bom in the state of Maryland, where they were reared
and married. After their marriage they came west and located at
Anderson, Indiana, and continued in this county until their death. The
father was a contractor by business and he and his wife were the parents
of ten children, four of whom are living in 1913. George Brown and
Samuel Brown are residents of Anderson, and Eliza, the widow of Wil-
liam Snell, is a resident of Logausport.
Henrj' Clay Brown was reared on a farm and such education as he
obtained was aflforded by the neighborhood schools. Up to the time
he was twenty-one years of age he remained at home, and by his work
and his other kindly services cared for his mother. He started inde-
pendently as a farm hand, working at wages, and with the gradual
accumulations of such labor was able finally to make a substantial begin-
ning on his own account. At the age of twenty-four he moved to the
farm where he now lives.
He was married ]\Iay 7, 1873, to Miss Emma Ulen, who was bom on
the homestead where she now lives, a daughter of Absalom Ulen and
was educated in the common schools. Seven children have been bom
to the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Brown : Harry H., a graduate of the
Pendleton schools; Lula. Lavina, and Chester, graduates of the high
Cbester, a graduate of the high school; Rex, Walter, Naomi, wife of
school ; Rex, Walter, Naomi, wife of Alfred White. Mr. Brown is aflBl-
iated with the Improved Order of Red Men and the Haymakers at
Pendleton. A Republican in politics, he has voted as a good citizen,
but has never held any ofiBce. Mr. Brown has a well improved farm
of about forty-five acres, and enjoys all the comforts and conveniences
of modern country life. For several years he was engaged in business
at Anderson as a drayman.
Lewis D. Kinnard. Few of the farmers of Fall Creek township,
in Madison count}', Indiana, have made a better showing from a similar
beginning than Lewis Dunwoody Kinnard. He has gained prominence
in the agricultural sections of the county as a farmer and stock raiser,
as well as being a feeder and shipper of some extent, and has a fine place
of one hundred and sixty acres under cultivation. He takes his place
among the representative citizens of the township, and enjoys the esteem
and friendship of a large circle of the best citizenship of the township.
Lewis D. Kinnard was bom on the farm east of the farm on which
he now resides on September 17, 1865, and is the son of John H. and
Elizabeth Clay (Dunwoody) Kinnard. Both were natives of Chester
county, Pennsylvania, who came to Madison county, Indiana, in the
spring of 1858, locating in this township, where they lived until 1891,
when the father died Nov. 19, 1891, the death of the mother following
on January 16, 1892. They were the parents of nine children, seven
of whom are now living; Lewis D. is the youngest of the family.
The home farm and the schools of the community constituted the
394 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
early environment and influence of Lewis D. Kinnard, and after he
had finished with the district schools he was entered at the Danville
(Ind.) Central Normal. He finished his studies there in 1888, after
which he taught for four years in Madison county, a work in which
he waa especially successful and popular. The business of farming,
however, proved more attractive to him, and he gave up his school work
to enter into agricultural activities following the death of his father
in 1891. Since that time Mr. Kinnard has continued in the business
and has made an excellent success of the work. General farming, cattle
raising, feeding and shipping have constituted his main interests, and
he has gained success and prosperity in the prosecution of the work.
His hundred and sixty acres in section twenty-five is recognized as one
of the finest places in the tovsTiship, and stands for a generous applica^
tion of genuine hard work on the part of Mr. Kinnard, formerly known
ae the Swain farm.
On September 4, 1889, Mr. Kinnard was married to Miss Deila L.
Downs. She is the daughter of Isaac and Jane G. Downs and was born
in Champaign county, Illinois, coming to Madison county in 1886. To
Mr. and Mrs. Kinnard three children have been born, named as follows :
Charles D., born on September 14, 1891, is a graduate of the Pendleton
high school and now a student in Winona Agricultural College; Helen
J., bom January 20, 1899, is a student in the high school; and Hugh,
born February 3, 1902, is also attending the schools of the home com-
munity.
Mr. Kinnard is a member of the Society of Friends and fratemallj
is associated as a member with Madison Lodge, No. 44, A. F. & A. M,
and Sicilian Lodge, No. 234, Knights of Pythias, of which he is Past
Chancellor and a member of the Grand Lodge. He is a Republican and
has given good service to the party in his district. Mr. Kinnard is one
of the broad-minded and liberally disposed men who mean so much in
any community, and whose citizenship is always of the highest order
and worth to their town and county. He, with his family, enjoys the
esteem and regard of a large circle of friends and acquaintances in FaU
Creek township, where they have long been known for their many
excellent qualities. The family are members of the Society of Friends.
Wn.T.TAM R. EJNNARD. Since he located on the old Thomas farm in
Pendleton township, securing the place on the status of a renter, the
fortunes of William Rush Kinnard have kept pace with those of the most
prosperous of the men of his community, and he is today the owner of
the fine old place which had been the property of his wife's family
years ago. Success has attended his efforts and he is reckoned among
the prosperous and substantial men of the town, and one whose influ-
ence and opinion are potent factors in the communal life of the place.
William R. Kinnard was bom in Chester county, Pennsylvania, on
December 7, 1848, and is the son of John H. and Elizabeth (Dunwoody)
Kinnard, both of whom were bom in the same county and state. They
came to Madison county, Indiana, in 1858, locating here on the 8th of
April, and settled in Fall Creek township, where they passed the
remainder of their quiet and industrious lives. The father died in
November, 1891, and the mother in January, 1892. The latter was a
member of the Friends' church and a devout and saintly Christian
woman. She reared her family of nine children in the pui^iy and piety
that were her strongest characteristics, and of the nine seven are today
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 395
filling useful places in the world. They are : Joseph D., William R.,
Mary F., Owen B., of Indianapolis; George L., Elnora B. and Lewis D.
William R. Kinnard was nine years old when the family came to
Madison county, Indiana, and settled in this vicinity. From his early
boyhood until he reached the age of twenty years he spent three months
each year in the district schools, the remainder of the time being
devoted to the varied forms of farm work incident to the time and place.
He was twenty-one years old when he went west on a trip with the
intention of finding something in which to venture as a means of liveli-
hood, but his stay there was short and when he returned to his native
community he joined his brother in a renting enterprise, and for three
years they managed a farm on shares. He married in 1873, choosing
for his wife one Mary S. Thomas, and they took up their abode on the
old Thomas homestead, which Mr. Kinnard rented and which he after-
wards bought. He prospered with the passing years, each succeeding
season finding him advancing in the scale of success, and today he owns
two hundred acres of the best farm land in Madison county, located in
Fall Creek township.
Mr. Kinnard and his family are members of the Friends' church
in which he was reared, and he is a Republican in politics. He is a
man who is highly esteemed and respected in the township and county,
and he has a host of the best of friends in this district, where he has
passed his life thus far, and where his entire family was long and most
favorably known.
As mentioned above, Mr. Kinnard married Miss Mary S. Thomas on
January 16, 1873. She was born and reared on the farm the family
now occupies, and is one of the best known and most popular women of
the community. Four children were bom to them, three of whom are
living at this time: Alice, a graduate of the high schbol and 'the state
University, and for some time a teacher, is the wife of Oliver E. Glenn,
professor of mathematics in the University of Pennsylvania; they have
two children. Elizabeth K., a graduate of the high school and a teacher,
is the wife of Edward Haines. Edith M., after her high school course,
entered upon a course of study in Swarthmore College, and is now living
at home with her parents.
George A. Phipps. In the little village of Huntsville in Fall Creek
township, on the north bank of historic and picturesque old Fall creek,
the principal industrial features and also business institutions are the
flour mill and the saw mill which for many years have been conducted
under the name and proprietorship of Mr. Phipps. A mill or factory
is always an important institution in any community, and particularly
is this true of the small rural settlement of Huntsville, where the mill
becomes almost the central feature of the place and around it are
grouped in comparative order the church and the school and the homes
of the local population. Mr. Phipps came to Huntsville more than forty
years ago, learned his trade in the old Huntsville mill and finally
became its proprietor. He has thus for many years been known in the
business economy of this county, and is one of the highly respected citi-
zens of Fall Creek township.
George Aiman Phipps was bom at Weldon, in Montgomery county,
Pennsylvania, January 4, 1842, a son of William and Margaret (Aiman)
Phipps. Both parents spent all their lives in Montgomery county,
Pennsylvania. In the same county George A. Phipps was reared'and
396 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
attained his early education in the common schools while growing up on
his father's farm. Most of his early education was attained in one of
the old fashioned subscription schools.
In November, 1870, Mr. Phipps came to Madison county, Indiana,
and took employment under his uncle, who was the ov/ner of the grist
mill at Huntsville. In that institution he learned his trade and in 1882
rented the grist mill from its owner. Three years later, in 1885, he
had advanced so far as to be able to buy the property, and now for
nearly thirty years it has been conducted under his name and ownership.
In 1909 a fire destroyed the old grist mill, which was never rebuilt. The
saw mill was not burned at the time the grist mill was destroyed. Mi-.
Phipps was, financiallj' interested in the glass f actorj' and the post factory
when they were located as industrial institutions in Pendleton.
In November, 1870, Mr. Phipps married Arminta Alfont. Mrs.
Phipps was reared in Madison count}' and has been the mother of seven
children, four sons and three daughters, namely: Margaret, a graduate
of the Pendleton high school and now the wife of Ward M. Taylor of
Chicago ; Ben F., in the hardware business at Pendleton and a graduate
of the Pendleton high school; Claude A., now deceased; Sarah, who is a
graduate of the common schools and is now the wife of Ed G. Brown of
Lafayette, Indiana ; Harry M., of Chicago, an unmarried young man
and a graduate of the local schools; Hazel M., who is a graduate of the
high school and is now a stenographer at Frankfort, Indiana; Paul,
who is a student in the high school. Mrs. Phipps is an active member
of the Methodist church. Mr. Phipps is one of the prominent INIasons
of Madison county. He is affiliated with Madison lodge, No. 44, A. F.
& A. M., at Pendleton, with Pendleton Chapter, No. 52, R. A. M., with
Fall Creek Council, No. 42, R. & S. M., and with the Commandery, No
32, of the Knights Templar at Anderson. He has attained thirty-two
degrees Scottish Rite Masonry. In politics he is an active Democrat
and has long been a royal worker and supporter of the party interests
and for local good government. At the present time he is a member
of the Madison county council. He has also served on the township
advisory board. Mr. Phipps is a quiet, unassuming man, honorable
and honest in all his business relations, and has given an excellent
account of the many years he has spent in this county. In his opinions
he is a man of strong convictions, and what he believes, to be right he
acts upon as a solid principle underlying all his character.
John Willits Jones. . Madison county from its early pioneer his-
tory to the present time has had the benefit and the productive labors of
different members of the Jones family, one of whose best known mem-
bers is Mr. John W. Jones of Fall Creek township. The industrial and
social character of a community is the result of its citizenship, and
among the many family groups which have contributed in this important
regard to the development of Madison county, none could claim more
credit than the Jones family, through its various representatives since
early pioneer times.
Mr. John W. Jones the Fall Creek township farmer and stockman,
was born in the township where he now makes his home on December
22, 1865, a son of Captain Jonathan and Elizabeth (Busby) Jones.
Jonathan Jones was bom in "West Virginia in 1832 and d d in March
1898. He came to Madison county with his parents when he was a
boy, 'and the Jones family established itself in Fall Creek township and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 397
took part in the pioneer work which then awaited the coming of every
new settler. Jonathan was reared in Fall Creek township and received
his education in one of the old log school houses which was the chief
feature of the educational system prevailing here during the first half
of the century. These schools were invariably supported by a private
subscription, and were primitive in all their facilities and methods of
work. Jonathan Jones married Elizabeth Busby, who was born on an
adjoining farm in this county, her father having entered, the land from
the government. That farm is now known as the the old Lewis D. Kin-
nard farm. After their marriage Jonathan Jones and wife made their
home in I\Ionroe township near Alexandria. Then in April, 1861, the
Civil war having become reality, after having threatened its fury for a
number of years, he organized Company D of the Thirty-Fourth Indiana
Infantrj-, and was chosen captain. He was out at the front and in the
campaigns of his regiments for about two years, when failing health
compelled him to resign his commission and return home. After he had
sufficiently recuperated, Oovernor Morton appointed him a drafting offi-
cer, and he served for some time in that capacity. About the close of the
war, Captain Jonathan Jones sold his farm in the northern part of Madi-
son county and moved to Fall Creek township, and bought the Scott farm,
situated on Lick Creek. That remained his home until 1884 at which
date he moved into the city of Anderson, which remained his home until
his death. His wife passed away in 1871. He-was one of the prominent
citizens of lladison county during his time. He was for eight years
county ditch commissioner and was also assessor of Fall Creek township.
Fraternally he was a member of the Independent Order of Odd-Fel-
lows. There were nine children born to the parents, and the eight now
living are as follows: Mahala, wife of F. P. Jackson of Anderson,
Indiana; Matilda Jones of Anderson; Isaac B. Joiles of Pendleton;
Sarah, who is unmarried and resides in Anderson; Etta, wife of Justice
Frampton, who resides in California ; John Willits ; and Morrison B. of
Anderson.
Mr. John W. Jones was reared in Fall Creek township and received
his education in the public schools of this locality. He spent most of his
early years on a farm, and along with such schooling as the local schools
afforded, has acquired a thorough knowledge of the principles and prac-
tices of first-class agriculture. When he was alwut twenty-six years of
age, on October 7, 1891. he married ]Miss Ella Haines, who was bom and
reared in Fall Creek township. In March, 1891, a few months previous
to his marriage. Mr. Jones moved to the city of Anderson, where he was
engaged in the ice business. This industry occupied his time and atten-
tion until February, 1911, at which date he sold out his interests in the
Anderson plant, and moved back to Fall Creek township. Since then
he has been an out and out farmer, is the owner of 90 acres of some of
the best land in the township, and makes a specialty of the raising of
hogs and cattle, shipping his stock by the carload. He also has realty in
Alexandria ancl Madison. Mr. Jones is a man of wide experience both
in business and in farming, and has applied business-like methods to
his present enterprise and is regarded as one of the most successful men
in the agricultural line in Madison county. Fraternally he is affiliated
with the Knights of Pythias and the order of Elks and has for a num-
ber of years been one of the influential men in the Republican party.
He is a member of the Universalist church and his wife a member
398 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of the Society of Friends. Mr. Jones and wife have an attractive rural
home, and both are among the prominent members of local society.
Samuel Swain. The old citizenship of Madison county had no be1>-
ter representative than the late Samuel Swain, who was born in FaU
Creek township in the decade of the forties, and who died on the 9th of
September, 1913. He had been continuously identified with this section
of the county throughout practically all the years that intervened since
the pioneer period. Mr. Swain was an infant when the first railroad
was brought through the county and in the vicinity of his old home-
stead, he was a boy in his teens when the Civil war broke out, and he
witnessed practically every innovation and improvement which has been
the teacher in a great civilization of a nation during the last half of the
nineteenth century.
Samuel Swain was born February 14, 1848. It was his distinction,
such as is possessed by comparatively few of the residents of Madison
county, to have been bom in a log cabin. That log cabin was situated
on the farm where he made his home at the time of his death. A log
cabin at that time was not necessarily a sign of poverty nor shiftless-
ness, but was rather a representative habitation, consistent with the
period of development through which the country was then passing.
As a matter of fact Samuel Swain belonged to one of the thrifty and
substantial Quaker families which settled in early Fall Creek township.
His parents were Woolston and Mary A. (Thomas) Swain. Woolston
Swain was a son of Samuel and Martha (Briggs) Swam. Both the
grandparents were natives of Bucks county, Pennsylvania, and spent
all their lives in that portion of the old Quaker state. Woolston Swain
came to Indiana in early manhood, and at Indianapolis met Miss Mary
A. Thomas, who had come to Madison county in 1834, belonging to one
of the first families to locate in this county. After their marriage in
1843, they located in Madison county, and spent all the rest of their lives
in this vicinity on this farm. The father was a farmer, and he and
his wife were active members of the Friends church. They were the
parents of five children, named as follows : Anna M., who is unmarried;
Samuel; Rebecca, who is unmarried; Joseph; and Frances L., the wife of
Joseph Johnson of Cleveland, Ohio, president of Swartlimore College
and president National Educational Society.
Samuel Swain was reared on the farm where he afterward lived and
attained his education in the old district schools near this farm, and.
also in the Spiceland Academy. During his early manhood he obtained
a certificate and taught the district school, during the winter term, while
during the summer he carried on his farming operations. Mr. Swain
never married, and after his father's death he assumed the active man-
agement of the home farm of one hundred aiid twenty acres. In the
profitable cultivation of this estate he proved himself to be one of the
most capable agriculturists and stock raisers in the county. Mr. Swain
was a birthright member of the Friends church in this locality. In
politics he was a Republican, though he was never interested in party
affairs, and was always a supporter of good government. In his farm-
ing operations he made a specialty of raising high-class live stock. Mr.
Swain in his business and civic relations was a quiet unassuming man,
who always performed his proper share of responsibilities, and never
obtruded himself into the conspicuous activities of public life. His un-
married sisters always made their home with him, and together they
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 399
kept the old estate as one of the best centers of the old-time life in
Madison county.
John W. Lew ark. Madison county's citizenship contains few mem-
bers whose careers have illustrated so well the varied battle with fortune
and with circumstance as that of Mr. John W. Lewark, of Pendleton.
Mr. Lewark came to ^Madison county a runaway boy, obtained his educa-
tion between periods of hard work, went from this county to the Union
ranks in the great war between the states, and since returning a veteran
from that conflict has been one of the honored citizens and business men
of Pendleton.
John W. Lewark was born in the city of Anderson on Ninth Street,
April 20, 1842, a son of Andrew T. and Margaret (Marshall) Lewark.
His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother of Ohio, and each of
them when young came to Wabash, Indiana, where they were married.
The family were residents first of Wabash and then of Anderson. The
mother died when John W. was seven years old, and he was then bound
out to David Kunts of Wabash. His adopted home did not prove con-
genial, and was the scene of much hardship to the growing boy. He had
few comforts and practically no opportunity for schooling, and was
employed nearly all his time in hard work in a brickyard and other occu-
pations. When he was fourteen years of age he had reached the limit
of his endurance and on Christmas day of 1856 he ran away from the
Wabash liome in which he had spent several years. He came to Madison
county in the fall of 1857, where a half-sister lived. He remained with
his half-sister for some time, and subsequently moved to Anderson where
he secured work in a brickyard. In 1858 he located at Pendleton, being
then sixteen years of age, and did farm work for some time. In 1861
he had begun work at the carpenter's trade and was getting along very
prosperously in this work until August, 1861, when the demands upon
his patriotism caused him to throw down his tools and enlist for the
war of preservation of the Union. He became a member in Company
D of the Thirty-Fourth Indiana Volunteers, and saw long and arduous
service in the Army of the ilississippi and continued a soldier until
November 6, 1865, when he received his discharge in Texas.
On returning to Pen'dleton, he took up work at the carpenter's trade,
and followed this vocation energetically until February, 1872. At that
date he engaged in the livery business and it is this line of enterprise
with which his name has been identified at Pendleton for forty years.
Mr. Lewark is one of the oldest liverymen in Madison county, and by
straightforward dealing and good management has made a reputation
throughout his part of the county and no business man in Pendleton
enjoys more esteem than this pioneer liveryman.
On May 2, 1867, he married Miss Emily E. Shattuck who was born
in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and came to Indiana in 1866, being a
teacher in the Pendleton schools up to the time of her marriage. After
forty years of happy married life, she passed away on May 3, 1907,
and was the mother of six children, namely: Anna, wife of William
Tague ; Clara, wife of Morris Townsand ; Amy, the widow of Frank
Datros; Mina, wife of Frank Homan ; Edith C, who is Mrs. Alley; and
Clarence L., who is a resident of North Carolina.
On March 16, 1910, Mr. Lewark married Mary Robins of Anderson,
this county. Mrs. Lewark was born in Madison county in March, 1862.
Mr. Lewark has always been a member of the Methodist church since
400 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
his boyhood. He is a popular member of the Grand Army of the Repub-
lic, and is affiliated with Madison Lodge A. F. & A. M. For many
campaigns he was an active Republican voter, but in 1912 joined the
Progressive ranks.
Oscar P. Mingle, D. V. S. A resident of Pendleton for the past four
years, and the only doctor of veterinary surgery in that locality, Dr.
Mingle is a progressive young citizen and has made a very excellent
success in his profession and in general affairs of citizenship in this
locality.
Oscar F. Mingle was bom in Hancock county, Indiana, May, 28,
1878,' a son of Madison and Martha D. (Jackson) Mingle. The father
now makes his home in Pendleton and the mother passed away in the
fall of 1906. They were the parents of five children, four of whom are
living in 1913.
Dr. 0. F. Mingle, the youngest of the family, received his primary
education in the district schools. His early schooling was accomplished
during the winter months, and in the summer time he assisted in the
work of the home farm. After leaving the common schools, he had a
varied experience as a farmer, and during that time evinced a great
fondness for horses and live stock in general. This fondness extended
through a natural study and close observation of the habits and nature
of the domestic animals, and it was from this predisposition that he
finally entered the Indianapolis Veterinary College in the fall of 1906.
He was graduated D. V. S. in 1909, and then located at Pendleton to
begin his active practice. He has no competition in this district, and has
a large practice throughout the country-side. The doctor is a member
of the alumni association of his college and is also a member of the
Indiana Medical Association.
Dr. Mingle married in 1900 Miss Dora F. Kirkman, of Fall Creek
township. Mrs. Mingle is a graduate of the common schools and has
spent practically all her life in this section of iladison county. They
are the parents of one son, Carroll K., who was bom November 8, 1902.
Carroll is a student in the Pendleton schools and has a record as a school
boy probably not e;ceelled anywhere in the county, since throughout his
school period he has never been absent at a regular school session nor
tardy and is now in the fourth grade of the public schools.
Fraternally Dr. Mingle is affiliated with Madison Lodge A. F. &
A. M. and with the Knights of Pythias Lodge. His wife is a member of
the Methodist church in Pendleton. Politically Dr. Mingle is a Demo-
crat, though he has never taken much part in political affairs. He is
the owner of forty acres of land in Hancock county, Indiana, and with
the prosperity which at this early date he has already won through his
energy and progressive ability, the future looks large with commerce
for him and family.
A. W. Cook. One of the oldest and most esteemed residents of Fall
Creek township, Mr. Asahel Walter Cook has spent the most of a long
life of eighty years in this county, has given a long period of service as
a teacher and educator, and for a number of years was a trustee of his
home township first elected in 1890 for five years, then re-elected in
1899 for another four years. The opportunities for sue' service in
behalf of the public come only to the man whose integrity and efficiency
are proved beyond all doubt to the citizenship, and the fact of public
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 4OI
service alone extended over a number of years is a high tribute to the
character of any citizen.
I\Ir. A. W. Cook, who is a birthright member of the Society of Friends,
was born in York county, Pennsylvania, June 17, 1833, so that he came
from the center of the old Quaker colony into the Quaker settlement
of eastern Indiana. His parents were George W. and Elizabeth
(Walker) Cook. Both parents were natives of York county, Pennsyl-
vania, whence they came to Indiana in 1847 and located as early settlers
in Madison county, their location being at Huntsville. The father was
a farmer in that vicinity and died there in 1861. His wife survived for
thirty years, passing away in 1891. They were the parents of eight
children, and six of the family are still living.
Mr. A. W. Cook was reared in Pennsylvania, where he received his
education in the pubUc schools, and on October 26, 1854, was married
to Hannah C. Garrettson. She was born in the same county as her hus-
band, was reared on a farm, educated in the public schools, and after
their marriage they located on a farm. Mr. Cook began teaching school
when he was nineteen years of age, and his experiences as an educator
continued for many j'ears. This occupation he alternated with that of
fanning, and it was his practice to spend the winters in teaching while
he conducted the oi>eration of his farm during the summer. In this
way he taught thirty-two terms of school, and twenty-two of these were
taught in Indiana in Madison county. For twelve terms he was princi-
pal of the Huntsville school in Fall Creek township. Among the older
educators of Madison county, probably not one is better remembered
and stands in higher esteem among the great number of pupils who still
survive and remember him than Mr. Cook.
In 1890 Mr. Cook was elected a trustee of Fall Creek township. After
serving some five years he vacated the office, but was soon afterward
recalled by the citizenship, and altogether gave nine years of service in
the office of trustee. He was also for six years supervisor of his town-
ship. Mr. Cook in 1890 sold his farm east of Pendleton and moved to
the to^vn of Pendleton, where he has since made his home. At the
present time his chief occupation is in writing tire insurance. In poli-
tics he has been a RepubHcan practically since the organization of that
great party. ,
The three living children of Mr. Cook and wife are as follows : Teresa
C, who is the wife of Joseph H. Michael; Melissa Q., vrife of George
Rogers; Mary E., wife of Charles Hedrick. The family are all members
of the Friends church. Mr. Cook is affiliated with Madison Lodge No.
44 A. F. & A. M. and has been an active member of this fraternity for
a great many years. He is in every way a progressive business man,
has upheld all his duties of citizenship, and has been honored in his
many relations in the useful services to his community.
George M. Overman. President of the Madison County Abstract
Company at Anderson, Mr. Overman has been successful in the real
estate and insurance business at Anderson for more than ten years, and
in the abstract company is at the head of one of the solid and pros-
perous institutions of this county. He has served as president and man-
ager since 1907. Mr. Overman has had a varied but generally success-
ful career, has been a farmer and stock raiser in early life, followed
mercantile lines for a number of years, and finally located permanently
402 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
in Anderson, where he is held in high esteem both as a business man
and citizen.
George M. Overman was born in Henrj- county, Indiana, near llaple
Valley, September 17, 1868. He is the youngest of the children born to
Nathan and Elizabeth V. (Wales) Overman. His father was born in
Pesquotank eountj% North Carolina, in the vicinity of Elizabeth City,
in 1830, and his wife was also a native of that state. The founder of the
family in Indiana, was Grandfather Robert Overman, who in the pioneer
days settled in Greenwood at Maple Valley iu Henry county, and with
the labor of his own hands hewed and built a one-room log cabin into
which he moved his famil.y. He spent many .years in clearing up the
farm, and when the settlers had increased in number he laid out a town
site which he named Elizabeth City in honor of the town in North Caro-
lina where he had spent his boyhood. Robert Overman was a settler in
Henry county in 1832, and lived there until his death on January 27,
1875. His wife, Fanny Overman died October 8. 1865. Nathan Over-
man, father of George M., was reared and educated in Henry county and
was a substantial farmer during his career. He moved to Shirley,
Henry county, and afterwards went to California. His death occurred
April 10, 1911, in his eighty-second year, while his wife passed away,
November 7. 1907.
Educated in the countrj' schools of Indiana, until he was fourteen
years of age, George M. Overman completed his education in the high
schools of Knightstown and Central Normal College at Danville, Ind.
When he left school he returned to the homestead farm where he had
received a thorough training in industry and thrifty habits during his
vacation periods, and was engaged in general farming and stock raising
for nearly two years. He next became a commercial salesman, selling
pianos and traveling all over the states of Indiana and Kentucky. Dur-
ing 1894-95, associated with J. M. Fisher, under the name of Overman
& Fisher he was in a music store for twelve months. After that he rep-
resented the firm of W. W. Kimball & Company of Chicago in selling
pianos and organs in different territories of Indiana, and in March,
1899, was transferred to the Kentucky territory, where he continued the
sale of musical instruments with Montinegro & Rheim, of Louisville,
Kentucky. Resigning this position he came to Anderson, and in August,
1901, entered a partnership with his brother, R. E. Overman, under the
firm name of Overman Brothers, Real Estate & Insurance. Some time
later he bought his brother's interest, and has since amplified the busi-
ness to include life insurance and the handling of general real estate
and farm lands. He is regarded as one of the best imiormed and most
reliable real estate men in this section of Indiana, and in consequence
enjoys a large and prosperous business.
In August, 1900, Mr. Overman was married to Miss Adda L. Newby
of Knightstown, Indiana, a daughter of Jabes and Sarah J. (Stites)
Newby. There have been four children born to their union, namely:
Donald N., Sarah E., Margaret F., and Harold B. Mr. Overman has
been honored with the office of clerk of the IModern Woodmen, Camp
3690, of Anderson, and is one of the ver\- popular men of his home
locality. His residence is at 706 East Lynn Street.
Hon. William A. Kittinger. A former state senator "om Madison
county, e.x-prosecuting attorney of Madison and Hamilton counties,
and for many years closely connected with the political and puhlie
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 403
affairs of the couuty, Mr. Kittiuger has been both a prominent and iise-
ful citizen of Anderson for more than four decades, and throughout that
time has practiced his profession of the law. As a criminal lawyer Mr.
Kittiuger is probably unsurpassed in this section of Indiana, and is a
man of the highest standing in his profession and as a citizen.
Mr. Kittinger was not born to fortune, and probably few successfid
men in Madison county today have overcome during their youth more
obstacles than Jlr. Kittinger. He was born in Wayne county, near
Richmond, Indiana, October 17, 1849. His father, John Smith, was a
native of Germany, a shoe maker by trade and after coming to America
settled at Richmond, Indiana. There he married Miss Delilah Turk,
who was born in Virginia, where her father died, and was brought by
her mother to Wayne county, Indiana, where she grew to womanhood.
She died in 1850, when her son William was about one year old, and
the father John Smith then returned to Germany, in order to secure his
interests in an estate, but was never heard of again, after leaving Indiana.
He left behind two children, the oldest of whom, Thomas, died at the age
of three years. William A., an orphan baby, was taken, into the home
of William L. Kittinger, and in this way he adopted the name by which
he is now known and honored. Mr. Kittinger in 1855 moved to Henry
county, Indiana, and was engaged as a saw mill operator and farmer
near Middletown. In that vicinity, William A. grew up and as an
oi"phau boy without influential relatives or friends had only limited
advantages and nearly all his time was taken for the work about the home
and farm, so that his schooling was very meagre. Industry, ambition
and perseverance have always been qualities of hi ; character, and it is
owing to these faculties that he won a successful position in life against
many and heavy odds. He finally gained a sufficient education to enable
him to teach school, and when eighteen years old taught in Union town-
ship of JIadison county, and was afterwards similarly employed in
Lafayette township. The summer seasons were spent in farm work and
in reading law, and while a very young man he also became interested in
the ministry and was licensed to preach in the Christian church. His
first license was obtained in Darke county, Ohio, and his second at Rich-
mond, Indiana, and for two summers he supplied vacant pulpits in
different sections of the state. Finally Mr. Kittinger took up the study
of law in the office of Judge E. B. Goodykoontz at Anderson. On August
2, 1872, he was admitted to practice, and at once moved to Missouri, and
opened an office at Bolivar in Polk county. He had just begun to get
acquainted and earn his first fees in Polk county when a telegram
announced the failure of the bank at Anderson in which his money was
deposited, and he at once returned to the city, in order to look after his
hard earned savings. On his return he took up the practice of law,
and in that way has been engaged in his profession in this city for
forty years.
Many important public services have interrupted the career of Mr.
Kittinger in his regular profession. He was elected in October, 1880,
prosecuting attorney for the twenty-fourth judicial circuit including
Hamilton and Madison counties. He was reelected to the position in
1882, and gave a very satisfactory account of his administration during
four years. After leaving the office he formed a partnership with Judge
R. Lake, which lasted six months. He then fitted up an office of his
own on the southside of the public square, but the building in which
he was located was burned to the ground in less than a month after he
404 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
had occupied the ofBce, and he suffered a heavy loss for him at that
stage of his career. February 1, 1886, he became a partner of L. M.
Schwinn, and the firm of Kittinger & Schwinn became recognized as one
of the strongest aggregations of legal talent in this section of the state.
Through aU these years his reputation was growing as a criminal lawyer,
and at the present time there is no abler practitioner in this special
department in central Indiana than William A. Kittinger.
Mr. Kittinger was in politics a Democrat uutU 1878, and from that
time forward allied himself with the Republicans. In 1888-90 he
served as secretary of the RepubUcau county Central Committee and is
regarded as one of the strongest and most influential workers for his
party i;i Madison county. In 1888 he was nominated on the Republican
ticket representative to the legislature and led his party ticket by about
one hundred and twenty-five ballots, though he was unable to overcome
the Democratic majority in the county. In 1900 he was elected to the
state senate from Madison county and in 1904 he was renominated for
this office, and thus served for eight years his term as state senator end-
ing January, 1908. In 1908 Mr. Kittinger was nominated and elected
state senator on the senatorial district, and as a legislator has an excel-
lent record.
At Columbus Grove, Ohio, September 9, 1874, Mr. Kittinger married
Miss Martha E. Kunneke, who was born in Dayton, Ohio, and reared in
Columbus Grove. The three children of Mr. Kittinger now living are :
Theodore, a graduate of the Annapolis Naval Academj^ of Annapolis,
Maryland ; Leslie F., Tschentseher of Chicago, 111., and Helen M. the
wife of Blanehard J. Home. Mr. Kittinger is a Scottish Rite Mason
and a Shriner. He is affiliated with Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 77 A. F.
& A. JI., in which he served as master of the lodge ; with Anderson
Chapter of which he is a past-high priest; and Anderson Commandery
No. 32 K. T. of which he has been eminent commander. He also is a
member of the Order of The Eastern Star and has a membership in
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and with the R«bekahs.
He is one of the well known members of the County Bar Association.
George Grant Manning. In the death of George Grant Manning,
which occurred at his home in the city of Anderson, August 8, 1908,
there came to a close in its sixty-sixth year a life which contained a
great aggregate of usefulness, of kindly relationship with family and
community, and one that was successful from the usual material
estimate. Mr. Manning gave many years of his life to educational work,
and came to Anderson in 1895 as one of the proprietors of the Crystal
Ice Company, with which his name continued to be identified until his
death.
George Grant Manning was born in Shelby county, New York,
December 28, 1842. He was the fourth son in a family of seven children,
whose parents were William and Elizabeth ^Manning. His boyhood was
spent on a farm, and he pursued the usual routine of farmer boys of
half a century ago, attending the district school during the winter sea-
son, and working at home the other months of the year, and also doing
much both morning and night in the way of chores and other assistance
to the home. At the age of seventeen he entered Medina Academy. The
following year in 1860, he accompanied his parents on their removal to
DeKalb county, Illinois, and continued his education by attendance in
the schools at Sycamore for one term, and was engaged to teach his first
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 405
term iu 1861. In 1862 he moved to Lyndon, in Whiteside county, where
he was elected principal of the village schools at the age of twenty years.
In 1866 Mr. Manning advanct-d his educational equipment by attendance
at the Illinois State Normal School in Bloomingtou, from which institu-
tion he was graduated in 1869. He taught for some time in Fulton and
in Jacksonville, Illinois.
Ill 1871 ]\Ir. ]\Ianning married jMiss Lucia Kingsley, who was a grad-
uate of the Illinois State Normal School, and previous to her marriage
had been a teacher in the model department of the State Normal
Schools. After her marriage they moved to Peru, Indiana, Mr. Man-
ning having been chosen superintendent of the city schools. For twenty-
one years he had charge of the city schools of Peru, and his work as an
educator and organizer was of the quality which lasts both in the minds
and characters of the many generations of children who attended dur-
ing that time, and also left a permanent impress on the school organiza-
tion of that city. On leaving the work of education at Peru, Mr. Man-
ning moved to Anderson, where he became president and manager of
the Crystal Ice Company. In 1903 he erected the Manning Block on
Meridian Street. He was also one of the stockholders in the Union
building, and in the coui^se of a lifetime of effort accumulated a good
estate for the benefit of his family. Mr. Manning served as one of the
trustees of the First Baptist church in Anderson. He was always much
interested in the welfare of his home city, and whenever possible gener-
ously supported the movement for the community good. His genial,
friendly disposition, brought him many friends wherever he lived, but
though he was fond of social life, he found his greatest pleasure in his
home.
I\Ir._ Manning is survived by Mrs. Manning and their four children,
namely: Miss Lucia May Manning; Mrs. Grace E. M. Downing; Mrs.
Edith M. Stein, and George K. Manning. There are also five grand-
children to be mentioned in the family record, their names being George
Elliott Downing, Mary Elizabeth Downing, Lucia Grace Downing,
Margaret Manning Stein and George King Manning.
John B. Pritchard. The present superintendent of police at Ander-
son has recently completed a record of twenty years with the police force,
in which he began as a patrolman, and by efficiency and faithful service
has been promoted and under several different city administrations has
held his present place. He belongs to one of the old families of Madison
county, the Pritchards having been identified with this county for up-
wards of seventy years.
John B. Pritchard was born in Madison, Kansas, December 17, 1863,
a son of Nelson T. and Magdalene (Nelson) Pritchard. His father
belonged to an old North Carolina familj-, in which state he was born.
In 1846 the family came to Madison county, Indiana, and were among
the early farmers of this section. The father took up farming and was
engaged in agriculture and stock raising for many years. He afterwards
moved out to Kansas where he remained a few years, and finally located
permanently in Madison county, Indiana, where he still resides.
John B. Pritchard was reared in his home county, and as a boy had
the advantages of the district schools. While he was in Kansas he
attended a select school. In 1888 at the age of twenty-five he returned
to Anderson, and after following different occupations became con-
nected with the police force in 1893. He was afterwards promoted to
406 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
captain, and from captain was finally made superintendent of the city
police. His service has been unusually satisfactory, and the best evi-
dence of this is the fact that he has served under both Democratic and
Republican administrations, and has maintained the force at a high state
of discipline, and has always cooperated with the agencies of law and
order, so that Anderson is regarded as one of the best policed cities in
the state.
Mr. Pritchard married Miss Armintha Smith, of Kansas, daughter
of William Smith, a prominent citizen of that state. Their union has
been blessed by the birth of five children, namely: Hilton M., Essie
May, Gladys, John N., and George W. Essie May is the wife of A.
Clemmons of Anderson. Mr. Pritchard is affiliated with the Knights of
Pythias, and the Loyal Order of Moose. His home in Anderson is at
1214 West Fifth Street. By his long residence in Madison county, and
his position on the police force he has secured an extensive acquaint-
ance not only in this county but in many of the adjoining counties of the
State.
David Eshelman. The business of contractor and builder has been
the vocation of Mr. Eshelman, since his early manhood. The degree of
accomplishment in such a career is open to inspection, for there are
hundreds of homes, business and public structures through this section
of Indiana that are the practical testimony of his skill and ability.
Representing one of the pioneer families of Madison county and one
of the leading men in his line of business, Mr. Eshelman was bom in
Madison county, on a farm four miles north of the city of Anderson in
Lafayette township on January 16, 1850. His father was John Eshel-
man, a native of Pennsylvania, where he spent his youth and acquired
a common school education. He married Mrs. Nancy (Mustard) "Elliott,
an aunt of Daniel Mustard, so well known at Anderson. Grandfather
George Mustard was a pioneer settler of Madison county, and the maiden
name of his wife was Miss Delay. After his marriage, John Eshelman,
the father, settled on a' farm in Lafayette township, and conducted a
farm of three hundred acres, a place which he did much to develop from'
its original wild state. He continued to live on the farm until his death
in 1870. His wife, who survived him, died in 1892.
David Eshelman was reared on the farm just described, and during
the winter terms for a number of years attended the district school in the
neighborhood. When he was seventeen years old he was qualified and
obtained a certificate to teach, and spent about three years in that voca-
tion in the country districts. Abandoning the profession of teacher, he
took up the trade of carpenter, and in a few years became identified
with building and contracting.
In 1875, Mr. Eshelman married Miss Charity Scott. The two sons
born to their marriage are Ross W., a carpenter and contractor, and
Albert A., who is at home with his father. After the marriage, Da\ad
Eshelman located on a farm for some time, and later moved into Ander-
son. Since establishing himself in business in the county seat, he has
erected a large number of the better residences in the city, many store
buildings, and had a contract for much of the work on the Union Build-
ing, the six-story structure which is one of the best office buildings in
this section of the state. On the basis of his performance, he name of
David Eshelman stands for quality and efificiency. He does much work
in the country districts in ]\Iadison county, and in neighboring towns.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 407
He is noted for his honorable aad thorough work, and is himself a
skilled workman, a fact which has stood him to good advantage in his
business. Mr. Eshelman has a comfortable home at 124 Fifth Street in
Anderson. In politics he takes much interest on the Democratic side,
and has served as a member of the city council, and was trustee of the
township, before he came to Anderson. Fraternally he is well known in
Masonic circles, being affiliated with Mount Moriah Lodge No. 77, A. F.
& A. M., Anderson Chapter No. 52 R. A. M. and Anderson Commandery
No. 2, K. T.
Chester F. Scott. The firm of Scott & Mead, plumbers and dealers
in heating and plumbing supplies, is one of the well known business con-
cerns of Anderson, established here in recent years, with Chester P.
Scott as junior member of the firm. Mr. Scott was born in Windfall,
Tipton county, Indiana, on January 25, 1883, and is the son of Dr. W.
F. and Ada V. (Conkling) Scott. The father is a West Virginian by
birth and there he spent his early days, coming to Indiana while yet in
his young manhood. He is still living, and is in his sixty-first year,
making his home at Linwood, Indiana, where he is actively engaged in
the practice of medicine, and in the enjoyment of a widespread clientele.
Chester F. Scott is the only son of his parents. He was educated in
the township schools of the community where he was bom and reared,
and he finished his public school training in the Andei'son high school,
where he continued for three years. Upon leaving school he entered the
Voorhees Commercial College in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he secured
an excellent business training, that has stood him in excellent stead
since he came to be a business man on his own responsibility. During his
school years, Mr. Scott had at intervals applied himself to the plumbing
trade as a helper, and it was in odd hours of practice thus gained that
he came to qualify as a practical plumber. AVhen he had completed his
college course, he east about for a suitable opening for a well trained
young business man, and the result of his investigation was that he asso-
ciated himself in a business partnership with G. C. Mead, under the firm
name of the Scott & Mead. The new firm met with a pleasing success
from its inception, and they are known today as two of the most suc-
cessful and enterprising young men in the city. They are qualified to
do all kinds of plumbing, both in the city and country finding an ample
field for their activities, and they carry a full line of plumbing supplies
such as might be found in any well conducted establishment of its kind,
and both members of the firm being practical and successful plumbers,
they are able to carry on the entire work of the establishment with but
little outside help. The splendid business training that Mr. Scott
received in Indianapolis has been of inestimable vaJue to him in this
venture, and their affairs are conducted on a strictly business basis,
prominence and success coming to them in generous measure.
Mr. Scott was married on May 22, 1911, to Miss Vera Esther Fin-
frock, of Covington, Ohio, a daughter of Frank P. and Emma (Phipps)
Pinfrock. One son, Benjamin Ferris, has been born to them.
The fraternal relations of Mr. Scott are maintained in Linwood
Lodge No. 793, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, with membership in
Linwood Lodge No. 639, Rebekahs, and the encampment at Anderson.
Augustus T. Dye. A former county recorder and one of the most
popular men in public affairs of Madison county, Mr. Dye has a promi-
408 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
nent place in financial circles of Anderson, being assistant secretary and
treasurer of the Farmer's Trust Company, of which he was the original
organizer. The Farmer's Trust Company is one of the most substantial
organizations of its kind in this section of the state, and among its
directors are many of the reliable business men and well known citizens
of both Anderson and the surrounding country.
The career of Augustus T. Dye began in Clermont county, Ohio,
where he was born July 27, 1864, belonging to an old family of that
state. His grandfather was James Dye, a pioneer of Ohio. The father
was Francis M. Dye, who was bom in Ohio, and for manj- years an
attorney. His death occurred during the year 1866, after four years
service in U. S. Army. He married Miss Amanda Manchester, who
was bom in Kentucky, a daughter of Hiram Manchester and grand-
daughter of Chas. C. Manchester, who began his career as a minister
in his eighteenth year and was widely known among the early settlers
of Ohio as a preacher, living to the advanced age of eighty years. On
the mother's side another ancestor, through a collateral branch, was
Roger Williams, the noted character of early New England history,
who in order to attain freedom of worship, according to his own ideas,
left the old Massachusetts colony, and settled in Rhode Island where
he gathered about him a small congregation and founded what was known
as Providence and Rhode Island plantations. Mrs. Amanda Dye is
still living at Hamerville, Ohio, and was the mother of two children.
Augustus T. Dye spent his early boyhood on a farm in Ohio, and
attended both the common and high schools at Felicity, Ohio, until com-
pleting his education in the high school. He then returned to the farm
and engaged in its various duties until he was twenty-one years of age.
His experience since that time has connected him with the larger phases
of business life. He spent two and a half years as traveling salesman in
Ohio, and then came to Anderson, where he followed various lines of
employment. His popularity as a citizen in 1898 resulted in his election
to the office of county recorder, and he gave four years of faithful and
intelligent service in that capacity. He was a Republican and had the
distinction of being the only candidate on the Republican ticket who
was successful in that election. On the expiration of his term of office
as recorder he spent three years in the mercantile business, and then
with others as his associates, organized the Farmer's Trust Bank. On
the organization of this well known financial enterprise he was made
assistant secretary and treasurer and has held those offices ever since. ■
Mr. Dye was first married to Miss Anna Ayres, daughter
of William and Nancy Ayres. The three children born to this
union were: Harvey, now an employe of the Pennsylvania Rail-
road Company, with headquarters in Indianapolis; Lula, graduate
of the high school, and a teacher of music ; and Stella, now a student in
the high school of Anderson. The mother of these children died on
April 22, 1899. Mr. Dye subsequently married Miss Lida Brooks, of
Anderson, a daughter of E. A. and Catherine Brooks. Mrs. Dye before
her marriage was for seven years a teacher in the schools of Anderson,
and is remembered as one of the most efficient and popular in the pro-
fession at the time. Mr. Dye has membership in Fellowship Lodge No.
681, A. F. & A. M., Anderson Chapter No. 52 R. A. M., Anderson Com-
mandery No. 32, K. T., Indianapolis Consistory, has attair J thirty-two
degrees of the Scottish Rite Masonry, and is a member of Murat Temple
of the Mystic Shrine in Indianapolis. His other fraternal affiliations are
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 409
with the Elks Lodge No. 209 at Anderson. His residence in Anderson
is at 920 West Fifth Street.
Emereth E. Luse. a prominent and old-established real estate man
of Anderson, Mr. Luse has been identified with this city in a successful
and public spirited manner for many years, and is numbered among the
citizens who have been instrumental in helping promote many projects
for the upbuilding and progress of this community. The firm of Luse
& Hardie is the largest office for real estate and insurance in Anderson,
and both members of the firm are well known and able business men.
Emereth E. Luse was born upon a farm near Elwood in Tipton
county, January 5, 1872. William H. Luse, his father, was bom in
Franklin county, Indiana, February 17, 1846, and married Lucinda
(Beeler) Luse, who was born in Wayne county this state, August 20,
18-45. After their marriage the parents settled in Tipton county, where
they remained until 1871, at which time they moved to a farm near the
line of Madison county, but stiU later bought a farm of forty-five acres
just outside the corporate limits of the city of Elwood, which has been
their home ever since. This is an extremely valuable farm, is excellently
well improved and has furnished a delightful and profitable homestead
to the family. The older Mr. Luse is a Republican, and was a Union
soldier in the Civil war, has always taken a lively interest in local and
state politics, though he has never sought or held ofiBce.
Mr. E. E. Luse spent his early boyhood on the Tipton county farm,
and was a student in the district schools there until moving to the vicin-
ity of Elwood, when he entered the high school of that city and grad-
uated with the class of 1893. After that he taught school in Benton
county, this state and was clerk in a clothing store and dry goods store,
an occupation which he followed until 1902.
Moving to Anderson in the latter year, Mr. Luse was appointed Dep-
uty County Treasurer under T. L, Dehority and continued in that
relation during the two terms, or four years, during which Mr. Dehority
was treasurer, and then succeeded and held the same office under Mr.
George F. Quick, the succeeding treasurer of the county. In 1910, Mr.
Luse formed a partnership with Henrj' P. Hardie, under the firm name
of Luse & Hardie, and opened offices for real estate and insurance
business, handling both city and farm property. By their large
acquaintance throughout the county, and by enterprising business meth-
ods, they have advanced their firm to the leading one of its kind in the
city of Anderson. Mr. Hardie, the other partner, is postmaster at
Anderson at this writing.
On March 20, 1900, Mr. Luse married Miss Edith M. Jones of
Elwood, who was originally from Pennsylvania and subsequently became
a resident of Madison count.y. Mrs. Luse was born in McKeesport,
Pennsylvania. Fraternally Mr. Luse is affiliated with the Elks Lodge
at Anderson, and with the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge No. 1. In
politics he is a Republican, and he and his wife are active members of
the Central Christian Church, Mrs. Luse being prominent in church
circles, and especiallj' the Ladies Aid Society. I\Ir. Luse is treasurer and
prominent in the work of the associated charities of Anderson. The
firm of Luse & Hardie have well equipped offices in the Neely Block,
and Mr. Luse and familv reside at 102 West Fourth Street.
410 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Edward C. Handy. As treasurer and general manager of the Indi-
ana Ice & Dairy Company at Anderson, Mr. Handy has the practical
control of one of this city's most servicable industries. The United
States Department of Agriculture estimates that milk and cream to-
gether furnish fifteen percent of the total food of the average American
family, and with this fact before us it is possible to estimate the impor-
tance of the milk business in every community. The Indiana Ice and
Dairy Company, with which Mr. Handy has been connected as man-
ager for the past fifteen years, manufactures and bottles pasteurized
milk and cream, and at the same time manufactures butter. The com-
pany has built up a very large local business and from a small begin-
ning has been obliged to enlarge the capacity of the plant from time to
time in order to handle the largely increased trade. The milk is gathered
in from the dairy farmers of the surrounding country, and through
the medium of this model plant is distributed to a large patronage in
the city. The capacity for butter-making is five ton per day, and the
plant has a capacity of bottling milk at fifteen hundred gallons per day.
The plant is a brick building, and is equipped with the latest and most.
improved machinery, and the entire service is conducted on the most
approved sanitary principles. The Indiana Ice & Dairy Company was
incorporated in 1907, and the chief officers at the present time are : Otis
P. Crim, president ; William C. Collier, vice-president and secretary ;
and Edward C. Handy, treasurer and general manager.
Edward C. Handy was bom in Hancock county, Indiana, July 7,
1865, and has had a varied career since he began life on his own account.
His parents were Minos P. and Elizabeth (Chandler) Handy. His
father was born in Indiana in 1837, was a farmer for a number of years,
and wa^ for a long time court bailiff of Hancock county. In politics he
was a staunch Democrat. The grandfather on the father's side was
William Handy, who was born in Virginia and became one of the pio-
neer settlers in Hancock county, Indiana. The maiden name of his
wife was Smith Eldrige, who was also born in Virginia.
Mr. Handy, one of nine children, five of whom are still living,
attended school in a school house of Hancock county which was known
far and wide as the old Handy schoolhouse, and was a landmark in
that section of the country. He attended school during the winters
and assisted his father on the farm during the summers. After leav-
ing the farm he went to Tipton, Indiana, where he became clerk in a
general store that being the beginning of his general business experi-
ence. He subsequently lived with his Uncle John Handy until his
seventeenth year. Three years after that he was clerk in a general store
at Morristown in Shelby county, and at the expiration of that time
entered a drug store and thus equipped himself for another line of
enterprise.
Mr. Handy has been identified with his present line of industry for
more than thirty years. In 1891 he became connected with a creamery
at Morristown, Indiana, and while there laid a solid foundation of
experience in that business. Then in 1897 he came to Anderson to take
charge of the Indiana Ice & Dairy Company, and his management has
been largely responsible for the success and large growth of this
business.
In 1891 Mr. Handy married Miss Mabel Boes, of Kenton, Ohio,
daughter of James and Elizabeth Boes. Mr. Handy is affiliated with the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 411
Knights of Pythias, and his attractive home is at 303 Jackson Street
in Anderson.
Frank D. Pence. As the owner of a large and well equipped livery
and sales stable in the city of Anderson, Mr. Pence has gained marked
success and is known as one of the aggressive, enterprising and sub-
stantial business men of Madison county. In addition to a general livery
business of important order he has built up a profitable enterprise in
the buying and selling of horses, and he is recognized as an authorita-
tive judge of equine values. He has a wide circle of friends in Madi-
son county and further interest attaches to the record of his achieve-
ment by reason of the fact that he is a native son of this county and a
member of one of its old and honored families.
Mr. Pence was bom on the homestead farm of his father, in Rich-
mond township, Madison county, Indiana, and the date of his nativity
was AprU 19, 1865. He is a son of John J. and Rhoda (Coburn) Pence,
the former of whom continued to reside on his farm until his death,
in 1908, at a venerable age, his devoted wife having passed to the life
eternal in 1893 and having been a daughter of John Coburn, another
sterling pioneer of Indiana and for many years a well known citizen of
Richland township, Madison county. John J. Pence was born near
Connersville, Wayne county, Indiana, and virtually his entire active
career was one of close and effective identification with the great
basic industry of agriculture. He was numbered among the early set-
tlers of Madison county and was long known as one of the representa-
tive farmers and stock-growers of Richland township, where he was the
owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty-eight acres, upon
which he made the best of improvements, including the erection of sub-
stantial buildings. He died in Union township. He was a' soldier dur-
ing the Civil war and a Democrat in politics. He was a man of inflexible
integrity and well fortified views, was liberal and loyal as a citizen and
commanded the high regard of all who knew him. His father, Adam
Pence, was one of the very early settlers of Madison county and did
well his part in the development and upbuilding of this section of the
state, the while he was known and honored for his sterling qualities.
Frank D. Pence has never had cause to regret the discipline which
he received in the formative period of his life, and in connection with
the work of the home farm he learned valuable lessons of responsibility
and practical industry. He made good use of the advantages afforded
in the district schools and continued to be associated with his father in
the work and management of the home farm until he had attained to
his legal majority. At the age of twenty-five years he took unto himself
a wife, who has proved a devoted companion and helpmeet, and shortly
after this important event in his career he rented the old Pence home-
stead, upon which he instituted independent operations as an agricul-
turist and stockgrower. He applied himself with characteristic energy
and ambition and thus his success was of substantial order. After the
passage of a few years he purchased a farm of one hundred and twelve
acres, in Union township, and in addition to continuing his successful
operations as an agriculturist he began to purchase horses, which he
brought into good condition and placed upon the market. His opera-
tions in this branch of his enterprise expanded in scope and importance
and at various times he was the owner of exceptionally valuable horses,
several of which he sold at an approximate sum of five hundred dollars
412 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
each. He is still the owner of his farm, upon which he has made such
improvements as to mark the place as one of the mo^iel farms of the
county, and he gives' to the place a general supervision and he is also the
owner of a considerable amount of real estate in the city of Anderson.
Mr. Pence continued to reside on his farm until 1899, when he re-
moved to Anderson, where he engaged in the livery business and also
continued the buying and selling of horses, in both of which lines of
enterprise he is now one of the leading representatives in Madison
county. In 1906 Mr. Pence purchased the Oliver Osbum livery and
gales stables, which constitute one of the landmarks of Anderson, and
here he has since continued his successful business operations. His
stables are well supplied with excellent horses and vehicles and he gives
careful attention to maintaining of the livery department of his busi-
ness at a high standard, with the result that the same received a large
and appreciative patronage. His operations as a dealer in horses are
based on a technical knowledge gained through wide experience and
he controls a most prosperous business in this line.
Though liberal and public-spirited in his civic attitude, Mr. Pence
has had no desire for the honors and emoluments of political ofBce. He
accords a staunch allegiance to the Democratic party and in a fraternal
way he is identified with the local organizations of the Loyal Order of
Moose and the Improved Order of Red Men.
In the year 1892 Mr. Pence was united in marriage to Miss Susan
Brcnenburgh, of Chesterfield, this county, and they became the parents
of three children, Leslie and Hazel M., both of whom are deceased ; and
Harold L., who remains at the parental home, the same being an attrac-
tive residence at 802 Park avenue.
C. K. McCuLLouGH. Until his death on October 31, 1909, Carroll K.
MeCuUough was one of the foremost leaders in the business activities
of Anderson and Madison county. He was known as a banker in the
local insurance field, as a legislator, and in many ways was identified
with the public life of his county and state. The McCuUoughs have
for sixty years been prominent in the history of Madison county, and
members of three generations have given their enterprise and character
to the framing and development of the varied life and interests of
this locality.
The late C. K. McCullough was born in Madison county, September
4, 1855. The old McCullough homestead farm was located near the
city of Anderson, and the late Mr. McCullough retained its ownership
until his death. He was a son of Neel C. and Maria (Edgerle) McCul-
lough. His grandfather was one of five brothers who came from Scot-
land and located at Oxford in Butler county, Ohio.
Neel C. McCullough, who during his day and generation took a
prominent part in commercial affairs in Madison county, was bom in
Butler county, Ohio, December 25, 1820, was educated in the Miami
University and was a classmate of the former president, Benjamin Harri-
son. At Oxford he learned the drug trade, and in 18'52, having located
at Muncie, Indiana, he established a hardware store there. Two years
later, in 1854, he moved to Madison county and located on a small farm
two miles southwest of Anderson. He proved an enterprising and suc-
cessful farmer, and eventually became the owner of eight Y ndred acres
■of improved land.
In the spring of 1855 Mr. McCullough established the Old Citizens
Aj(jiAA^J^iiJuJiJUr^^'^
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 413
Bank, the first financial institution in the history of Anderson. In
that enterprise he was associated with Byron K. Elliott, who afterwards
became chief justice of the Supreme Court of Indiana. When the
National Bank Act became a law in 1863, Mr. McCullough and Mr. J. 6.
Stilwell organized the Citizens Bank into the First National Bank of
Anderson, with Mr. .AlcCullough as cashier. But he afterward with-
drew from the institution and for several years was actively engaged in
the grocery and hardware business.
The First National Bank having in the meantime failed, Neel C.
McCullough, in 1871, organized the Citizens Bank, which he managed
alone until 1873. His son, the late Carroll Kay, then became interested
in the hank, and the tirm was thereafter known as N. C. McCullough
& Company. In 1897 W. T. Durbin, of IndianapoUs, and later gover-
nor of Indiana, was admitted to the firm and the capital was increased
to fifty thousand dollars. In 1881 Mr. D. F. Mustard took the interest
of C. K. IMcCullough, and the latter then retired, but four years later
bought Mr. Mustard's interest. In 1887 the Citizens and the Madison
Banks were consolidated under the name of N. C. McCullough & Com-
pany, with N. C. McCullough as general manager. While a hanker the
latter also managed his large farming and other interests. . In 1868 he
platted N. C. McCullough 's first addition to Anderson, a tract of land
now comprising that portion of the northwestern quarter of the city. In
1875 he bought the Artificial Gas Plant, operating it until 1887, when
natural gas was discovered. He was an active Republican until the nom-
ination of Horace Greeley by the Democrats in 1872, and then became
a Democrat and was active in the cause of the latter party as he had
been in behalf of the Republicans.
The wife of Neel C. McCullough was born in Sehnectady, New York,
and was a daughter of George W. Edgerlee, who went from New Hamp-
shire to New York and later to Montgomery couhty, Ohio. The daughter
was reared in Ohio, and was educated at Oxford Female College, being
a schoolmate of Carrie Scott, who afterward married Benjamin Harrison,
president of the United States. Mrs. Neel C. McCullough is a leading
member of the Methodist church in Anderson. She resides in the old
homestead in that city, and became the mother of five children, three of
whom grew to adult years. The daughter Bertha M. became the wife of
Hon. W. T. Durbin, a former governor of Indiana; Carroll K. was the
next younger ; and Maud married Dr. C. N. Branch.
The late C. K. McCullough was reared in Anderson and began his
education in the local schools. WTiile attending Asbury (now DePauw)
University at Greencastle occurred the failure of the First National
Bank of Anderson and then the reorganization by his father of the
Citizens Bank, and at this juncture in the community and family's
financial affairs his father gave Carroll the choice either to continue
school or to go in business with the newly organized Citizens Bank. He
chose the latter course, and at the age of eighteen years became identified
with banking, and continued with the Citizens Bank until 1881. In that
year he assumed the management of the Artificial Gas Plant, and thus
continued until the plant was abandoned in 1887.
In the great era of local business improvement which set in with the
discover^' of natural gas in 1887, the late Mr. McCullough became one
of the most energetic factors, and not only developed a large business
of his own, but lent his efforts liberally and freely to the general welfare
of the community. At the outset of Anderson's prosperity following
414 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the natural gas discovery Mr. McCullough laid out iiinety-one lots in
Park Place and twenty-seven lots in what was known as the second addi-
tion, and in order to stimulate purchase he built fourteen houses, aU of
which were quickly sold, as well as the majority of the lots. In 1890,
in connection with W. T. Durbin and other members of the family, Mr.
McCullough built what has long been known as "the post-office block,
with a frontage of seventy-two feet on Ninth street, a three-story build-
ing, one of the largest and most conspicuous structures in the business
history of this time. He also owned a large farm on Pendleton Pike
southwest of Anderson, and he was one of the leading men in the organi-
zation of the Anderson Driving Park Association, the association having
eighty-four acres of level ground and a fine one-mile track. He was
also the owner of Riverside Park, a beautiful plat of ground between
Anderson and the White river.
Mr. McCullough continued actively identified with the Citizens Bank
of Anderson until the organization of the Liberal Life Insurance Com-
pany in 1900, and thereafter was nominally in the bank in the capacity
of manager. He was secretary and manager of the newly organized
Liberal Life Insurance Company, and was one of the eleven original
directors, of whom nine survived in 1909, the time of the death of Mr.
McCullough. The other associates in the insurance company at the
beginning were : The late Major J. H. Terhune, R. P. Grimes, Thomas
J. Nichol, Daniel Goehler, James Wellington, George Shreeve, S. L.
Van Patten and Robert Schenck. After the death of Mayor Terhune in
March of 1909 Senator McCullough became president and manager of
the company, and this addition to his many other interests and duties
was largely responsible for his quickly failing health, ending in his
death.
C. K. McCullough was an active Democrat, and was a member of
the state senate at the time of his death. He had been elected a state
senator in 1908, and served in the session beginning in 1909, but still
had the second session before him. In 1907 he was elected a member of
the House of Representatives. In 1888 he had been the nominee of his
party for senator from Madison and Grant counties, but the district was
then strongly Republican and he was accordingly defeated. He also
gave local service as a school trustee and city councilman, and to the
extent of his ability was always ready to assist and co-operate with local
enterprises. He organized the first volunteer fire department of Ander-
son, and -was secretary and treasurer of every fair association until his
passing away. He organized and was the first exalted ruler of the
Anderson Lodge, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, was a past
commander of Anderson Commandery, Knights Templars, and was
also a past master and a past high priest of other bodies in the York
Rite, and at the time of his death was treasurer of Mt. Moriah Lodge
A. F. & A. M. and Grand Senior Warden of the Grand Commandery of
the state of Indiana. His other fraternal affiliations were with the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Royal Arcanum and the
National Union.
In 1877 Mr. McCullough married Miss Hattie Black, who was born
in Union county, Indiana, a daughter of McFarland Black, one of the
pioneer farmers of Richland township. Mrs. McCuUough eceived her
education in the Anderson high school. Their three children are Mildred,
Neel and Mary.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 415
Xeel ;M. McCullough. As cashier of the Citizens Bank of Ander-
son, as a member of the firm of Vinnedge-McCullough Real Estate
Agency and as president of the Pierce Speed Controller Company,
Neel ^I. ]McCullough is a worthy successor of his late father, and though
one of the youngest independent business men, is successfully super-
vising the many important interests entrusted to his management.
Neel M. McCullough was born in the city of Anderson, March 19,
1886, the only son of the late Carroll K. and Hattie B. (Black) McCul-
lough. His early education was obtained in the grammar and high
schools at Anderson, and after graduating from the latter he entered
Culver Military Academy at Lake Maxinkuckee, where he was graduated
in 1904. In the fall of the same year he entered the University of Mich-
igan, but left that institution after one year to enter the banking busi-
ness. Entering the Citizens Bank in 1905, he went through the entire
routine of banking, and in 1911 was promoted to the office of cashier,
his present position. He is the secretary and treasurer of the Anderson
Club, the city's leading social organization.
In 1907 occurred the marriage of Mr. McCullough to Miss Char-
lotte Gedge, a daughter of Burton H. Gedge, one of Anderson's well
known business men. The two cliildren born to Mr. and Mrs. ilcCul-
lough are Carroll Kay and Burton Gedge. Mr. McCullough is a
prominent Mason, affiliated with Mt. Moriah Lodge, No. 77, A. F. &
A. M., of which he is the treasurer; with Anderson Chapter, No. 52,
R. A. M. ; Anderson Council, No. 62, R. & S. M. ; and Anderson Com-
mandery, No. 32, K. of T. He also has fraternal relations with the
Royal Arcanum and the order of Ben Hur. The McCullough home
is a substantial brick residence at 424 West Tenth street.
James M. L.\kmobe. Born near Areola, Douglass county, Illinois,
September 26, 1874, the youngest son of Matthew T. and Mary (Wild-
ridge) Larmore. The father was born in Hamilton county, Ohio, August
15, 1832, the mother in Franklin county, Indiana, January 1, 1834.
The son attended the common schools of Indiana and graduated in
1891, after which he spent some years on the farm, reading law in the
winter, and one year in the office of Lovett & Ilolloway, Anderson, Indi-
ana, up to 1898, when he engaged in the insurance business, locating in
Pendleton, Indiana. He continued there for a period of about three
years, after which time he moved to Anderson, Indiana, and engaged
in the same business with the old firm of Jackson & Burr, it
being known after his connection therewith as The Jackson-Burr Com-
pany, which continued in the insurance business from the time of his
connection to the first day of January, 1913, when the company was con-
solidated with the Farmers Trust Company, of which Mr. Larmore is
now a stockholder and on its Board of Directors. He is also State Agent
for Indiana and Illinois for the Norwich Union Fire Insurance Society,
having held this position since 1904.
He was married to Laura A. Lewis, October 16, 1901. Laura A.
Lewis was the daughter of James ^I. and Eliza M. Lewis of Markle-
ville, Indiana. ]\Ir. and Mrs. Larmore have three children, two daugh-
ters and a son, Eliza Agnes, I\Iary Louise and James Matthew. The
father of Mr. Larmore is still living at the age of eighty-one, the mother
having died at the age of seventy-seven years. The home of the Lar-
more family is at 300 West Thirteenth Street, Anderson, Indiana.
416 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Sanfoed M. Keltner. Eminently entitled to specific recognition in
this history of Madison county is Mr. Keltner, who was one of the repre-
sentative members of the bar of this section of the state for twenty-six
years. He is president of the Anderson Ti-ust Company and vice-presi-
dent of the Anderson Computing Scale Company, two of the important
corporations of the county, and he is known and honored as a citizen of
substantial worth of character and marked loyalty and public spirit.
Mr. Keltner claims the Buckeye state as the place of his nativity and
is a son of one of its sterling pioneer families. He was born in Preble
county, Ohio, on the 10th of July, 1856, and is a son of Joseph and
Rachel (Paulus) Keltner. lie gained his rudimentary education in
the schools of his native county and was about nine years of age when,
in 1865, the family removed to Darke county, Ohio, where his mother's
death occurred when he was eleven yeai-s of age. Shortly afterward
Mr. Keltner came to Indiana and found a home with James P. Burgess,
an old gentleman who was then living two and one-half miles south
of Richmond, Wayne county. Mr. Keltner remained in this kindly
home until he had attained to the age of fifteen years, and in the mean-
while he had duly availed himself of the advantages of the local schools.
At the age noted he went to Pierceton, Kosciusko county, this state,
where his father had established a home after contracting a second mar-
riage. At Pierceton the subject of this review continued his educational
discipline in the public schools and he soon proved himself eligible for
pedagogic honors. For some time he served as an able and popular
teacher in the schools of Kosciusko county and in 1875 he- entered the
Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute, where he continued his
higher academic studies for two years. For several years thereafter he
divided his time between teaching and attending school, and in Septem-
ber, 1881, he came to Anderson and assumed the position of principal
of the public schools. He was most earnest and successful in his work
in this connection. After devoting three years to teaching and execu-
tive duties u» the city schools Mr. Keltner initated the work of preparing
himself for the exacting profession in which he has achieved much of
distinction and precedence. In June, 1884, he began the study of law
in the office and under the able preceptorship of the firm of Robinson &
Lovett, and he made rapid progress in his absorption and assimilation
of the science of jurisprudence, with the result that he was admitted to
the bar in 1886. After having been for three years identified with the
activities of the firm mentioned, its members showed their appreciation
of his character and ability by admitting him to partnership, where-
upon the title of the firm was changed to Robinson, Lovett & Keltner.
This effective alliance continued until Colonel Robinson, the senior
member of the firm, was called to the bench of the appellate court, after
which the firm of Lovett & Keltner continued the business. The firm
of Chipman, Keltner & Hendee, of which 'Slv. Keltner subsequently be-
came a member, was formed on the 1st of June, 1893, and gained pres-
tige as one of the leading law firms in this part of the state. On the 1st
of June, 1910, Mr. Keltner severed his connection with the law firm of
Chipman, Keltner & Hendee, of which he had been an honored and
valued member for a period of seventeen years, and thereupon he
assumed the active management of the Anderson Trust Company, of
which he is now president and to the affairs of which he gives all of
his time and attention. He is one of the alert and liberal men of ^ladi-
son county and has contributed in generous measure to the civic and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 417
material progress and prosperity of his home city, where it may well be
said that his circle of friends is coincident with that of his acquaint-
ances. As a lawyer he has been concerned in much important litigation
in the courts of this section of the state and his reputation in his chosen
profession is on a parity with his recognized ability and success as one
of its prominent representatives in Madison county.
In politics Mr. Keltner has been found a staunch and effective
exponent of the cause of the Republican party, and while he has not
been imbued with ambition for political office he has served in local
positions of trust and in tlie same has shown himself animated by the
utmost civic liberality and progressiveness. He was for seventeen
years a valued member of the Anderson board of education and he has
been most zealous and enthusiastic in advancing the standard of the
schools of the county. During the administration of ]\Iayor John H.
Terhune Mr. Keltner served as president of the board of public works
of Anderson, and in this position he made his labors inure greatly to
the good of the city and its people. He is affiliated with the local organ-
izations of the ]\Iasonic fraternity, the Benevolent & Protective Order
of Elks, and the Knights of Pythias.
On October 20, 1886. was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Keltner
to ]\Iiss Alice May Cockefair, who was born in Union county, this state,
and who is a daughter of Sylvanus and Mary A. Cockefair. The two
children of this union are Ruth and Mary. The family are members of
the Presbyterian church.
DanieIj L. Bob.'VND, Clerk of the Court of Madison county since Jan-
uary 1, 1911. and for a number of years engaged in the insurance and
loan business, is one of the more prominent and popular men of the city
and county in which he has long been located. Bom in Henry county,
Indianh, Daniel L. Poland is the son of Patrick and Ellen (Tierney)
Boland, the father a native of County Tipperary, Ireland, and the
mother of the same place.
Patrick Boland was educated meagrely in the schools of his native
land and passed his boyhood days on a farm. His marriage to Ellen,
daughter of Daniel and K^therine (Kiley) Tierney, took place in Janu-
ary, 1845, and some five years later Mr. Boland determined to try his
fortunes in America. He left his wife and three small children in the
care of his parents and hers and accordingly set forth, reaching New
Orleans in 1850 and soon after coming to Dearborn county, Indiana.
Two years later his wife left the Island home to join him here, accom-
panied on the long journey by her only surviving child, two others hav-
ing died in the absence of the husband and father. In Dearborn county
the little family, re-united after two years of separation, settled down,
there remaining until 1855, when they removed to Middletown in
Henry county, Indiana. While there Mr. Boland was employed as a
section foreman on the railroad, and was a much trusted and faithful
employe. In 1883 the family removed to Anderson where the father
died on March 21, 1884. aged sixty-six years. He was a staunch Demo-
crat, taking a true Irishman's interest in the politics of his community,
and being ever the loyal supporter of his Democratic friends in their
political aspirations. He was a Catholic, as was his faithful wife, and
they reared their family of twelve children in the faith of their fathers.
At the time of the death of Mr. Boland seven of the children were living
A man well known for his manv excellent traits of character, he was
418 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
universally admired and esteemed, and he still lives in the memory of
many friends who knew him as he was.
Daniel Boland received his primary education in the public schools
of Middletown and afterward attended the high school at Anderson,
Indiana. Leaving school in his teens, he entered the employ of his
brother, who was a member of the finii of Boland & Burke, gas fitters,
and for two years he continued with them. He then entered the service
of the Pennsylvania Railroad as an operator, later came to be Super-
visor's Court clerk holding the latter position for two years. He was
then appointed deputy treasurer, serving under his brother, William
Boland, county treasurer, and for two years was thus employed. Mr.
Boland then formed a partnership on his own responsibility, engaging
in the insurance business under the firm style of Cornelius & Boland.
This firm lived for three years, during which time they built up a nice
business, and it later came to be known as Heritage & Boland, and as
such continued for five years. During the eight years he was thus con-
nected he came to have a leading place in insurance circles of the city,
and was reckoned among the substantial insurance men of the district.
He aftenvards became interested in the firm known as the NetterviUe,
Boland & Dye Companj', operating in insurance and loans, and for
a space of two years was thus connected. During this latter period Mr.
Boland had been acting as special agent for the German Insurance
Company of Indiana and was rapidly gaining a position in insurance
circles. In 1910 he was elected Clerk of the Court for a term of four
years, receiving his election at the hands of the Democratic party with
a most liberal ma.ioritj', and assuming the duties of the ofSce on Janu-
ary 1, 1911. He has already demonstrated his splendid capability for
the duties of the position, and will continue therein until January 1,
1915.
Mv. Boland is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He
is socially a member of the Brownson Club and the Antler's Club. Other
business associations that he continues to maintain are his position as a
stockholder and director in the Columbian Insurance Company, of
Indiana, and in the Farmers' Trust Company, with which he has long
been connected. His acquaintance in Anderson and the county is a
wide one, and his list of friends is one that is fairly coincident with
that of his acquaintances. A man of splendid qualities, he enjo3^s the
confidence and esteem of all who know him, and few are more worthy
of the high regard accorded than is he. Mr. Boland is unmarried.
Andrew Ellis. One of the oldest railroad men now living in Madi-
son county, spending his declining years in restful retirement at his
comfortable home in Anderson, Andrew Ellis can look back over a faith-
ful, honorable record of forty-one years and eleven months spent in the
service of the Pennsylvania Railroad Company. He was born at Econ-
omy, Wayne count.y, Indiana, September 17, 1841, and is a son of Sam-
uel and Abigail (Key) Ellis. His father, born in Greenfield, Tennessee,
in 1798, removed to Wayne county, Indiana, in 1830, and settled in the
woods where he purchased land, cleared it and made a home for his
family. He was also a blacksmith, and later in life moved to Howard
county, Indiana, locating on a farm of eighty acres, where .le spent the
remainder of his life in general farming and stock raising. Mr. Ellis
married Abigail Key, who was born in 1810, in Blount county, Tennes-
k
HISTORY OF MADIftOX COUNTY 419
see. moved to Wayne county. Indiana, in 1833, and died in 1893, affed
eighty-throe years. They became the parents of three sons and three
dangrhters. of whom but two children still survive: Andrew; and Mahala,
who is now Mrs. Barr and resides at Argos, Marshall county, Indiana.
Andrew Ellis secured his education in the primitive log schoolhouse
in Howard county, Indiana, and subsequently went to the high school
of New London. Indiana, the high school in Kokomo and Bryant and
Stratton Commercial School at Indianapolis. In 1865 Mr. Ellis went
to Missouri, and during that year and 1866 was engaged in teaching
school, then reuming to "Windfall, Indiana, where he pursued the voca-
tion of educator in the winter months and spent the summers in farm-
iner. In the summer of 1869 he studied telegraphy and did railroad
office work, and in November of that year was appointed agent for the
Pennsylvania Lines at "Windfall. Tipton county, Indiana. In Decem-
ber, 1881. he was transferred to Kokomo, where he was agent until
1885, then becomins: agent for the same road at Anderson, a position
which he continued to hold until July 1, 1905. He was then appointed
freisht and passenger solicitor for the same road with offices at Anderson,
and on September 30, 1911, reached the age of retirement, and was
pensioned by the Pennsylvania Railroad Company.
Mr. Ellis has been twice married. His first union was in 1863, when
he was united with Miss Armina Jones, of Grant county, Indiana, and
to this union there was bom one daughter, now Mrs. Belle Lewellen, of
Kokomo, whose husband was for years a telegraph operator. Mr. Ellis
was married January 21. 1891. to Miss Laberta E. Stebbing. of And-
erson, a much accomplished lady and a native of Maryland. They
have had no children. "Mr. Ellis is a valued and popular member of
Mt. 'Moriah Lodge No. 77. Free and .\ccepted Masons. "While well ad-
vanced in years, a long life of sobriety and probity has left him strong
in body and intellect, and he continues to take a lively and intelligent
interest in all matters pertaining to Anderson and its people. "Widely
known in railroad circles, ho bears the I'cputation of an industrious,
honest and conscientious gentleman, and the number of his friends is
only limited by the extent of his acquaintance.
Hon. Prank P. Foster. Anderson's present mayor, has been one of
the city's most progressive and loyal citizens since locating here in 1879.
Neither as a citizen nor as a representative in the lower branch of the
State LeErislature. at home or abroad, has he ever let a fitting oppor-
tunity pass to add his mite to the sum total of praise in favor of Ander-
son as a busy, enterprising city. A native of Orange county, Indiana,
after receiving a common and high school education, he took a four
years' course at the Indiana State University, from which he graduated
in 1879. and immediately afterward located and began the study of law
in Anderson. Recognizing his ability and integrity, the Democratic
party nominated and elected him as representative to the State Legis-
lature from Madison county in 1887, honoring him also with a second
term in 1889. Although a young man. he took an active part in the
shaping of legislation at that time, and was instrumental in procuring
what were then some of the pioneer laws of the state, but which have
proven to be most wholesome, for instance "the Australian Ballot law
and the School Book law.
"While he has always acted in the support of its principles. Mr.
Poster is not a partisan to the extent of being offensive to those who may
420 HrsTORV OF MADISON COUNTY
hold contrary views as to men and measures of his party. This has
incidental proof from the fact that in his race for the mayoralty he
received the largest plurality ever given to any candidate for that olfice
in the city of Anderson. He is thoroughly independent in every rela-
tion of life and follows the leadership of no men or set of men against
his better judgment. This well-known characteristic, with his unques-
tioned reputation for personal honor, has contributed hirgcly to his
success at the bar and in politics. 'Sir. Foster for many years has been,
and now is, the president of the JIadison County Bar Association. He
was city attorney for six years, and discharged the duties of that office
with rare ability. He became ma.yor of Anderson in January. 1910,
and is now in the last year of his service in this high position. It is,
perhaps, a little early to sum up the work of his administration, and yet
enough has alreadj' been done to warrant the statement that it is one
which will loom, when completed, with distinct achievements.
When Mayor Foster took office, the city was full of '"blind tigers,"
while there were continual and repeated violations in the sale of liquors.
Gambling, prostitution, open dance halls and prize fights were indulged
to a degree offensive to all good citizens. These have been abated,
while the saloons which operate under the laws are required to strictly
observe the laws. Vice and crime have Ixtth been curbed to a minimum
in Anderson.
The economical and efficient service of the several city departments
cannot be enumerated within the confines assigned to this all too brief
sketch. But the virtues of ^layor Foster's administration may be gen-
erally comprehended in the truthful affirmation that while the price of
commodities produced by the plants controlled by the city have cheap-
ened to the consumer, while taxes have been lowered, while great and
valuable areas have been purchased for park lands, including the An-
derson Fair Grounds, and public drinking fountains and other helps
to the public good have been installed, the public debt, with its heavy
burden of interest and embarrassment, has constantly decreased, so
that although that debt at the beginning of Mayor Foster's term was
$228,000.00, it is now but $50,000.00, and before he leaves the chief
executive's chair will have been wiped absolutely off the account. Also
the tax rate which at the beginning of his term was $1.10 on the hun-
dred dollars of assessable property will at its close be but 70 cents.
Mason V. Hunt, M. D. The roster of medical men of Madison county
who have attained distinction in their profession would be decidedly
incomplete did it not contain the name of Dr. Mason V. Hunt, one of
the oldest practitioners of the city of Anderson, and a man widely Icnown
and highly respected not alone in the ranks of his profession, but in
business, social and fraternal circles. For nearly a quarter of a cen-
tury he has been ministering to the ills of the people of Anderson, and
his unquestioned talent and sympathetic nature have drawn to him a
large and representative practice. Dr. Hunt was born in the city of
Greenville, Darke county, Ohio, January 27, 1848, and is a son of Dr.
W. A. and Sarah (Wright) Hunt.
Dr. W. A. Hunt was born in North Carolina, and became an early
settler of Darke county, Ohio, where as a youth he began reading medi-
cine. Subsequently, he entered the Starlir.g Medical College, Columbus,
and after his graduation 1 herefrom was engaged in practice in Green-
ville for some time. Later, he came to Indiana and settled on a farm
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 421
in Madison county, not far from A.nderson, and while engaging in till-
ing the soil continued to practice medicine and surgery. Dr. Hunt dis-
posed of his farm in 1867 and came to Anderson, to devote bis whole
attention to his profession, and continued in active practice up to the
time of his death, which occurred February 20, 1889. He was a Quaker
by religion, as were his father and his grandfather, yet they came of a
line of fighting men wiio participated in the various wars of this coun-
try down to the struggle between the North and South, and many of
the name lield high rank in the Union army during the last-named war.
Dr. Hunt married Miss Sarah Wright, who was born in ]Maryland, and
was taken to Ohio by her father. William Wright, an early settler of
Darke county, who was also of Quaker stock.
^lason V. Hunt received his early education in the public and high
schools of Anderson, this being supplemented by an attendance of two
years at Earlham College, Riehmond. Indiana. Early exhibiting a pre-
dilection for medicine, doubtless inherited from his father, he began
his medical studies under the preceptorship of the elder man, and after
some preparation entered what is now known as the Cincinnati Medical
University, where he was graduated after a very creditable examination
in 1874. He at onee entered practice at Janesville, ^Minnesota, where
he remained one year, subsequently moviiig to Waseca, Minnesota, where
he passed some eighteen years in a successful practice, and in 1890 made
his advent into Anderson, which lias since been his field of endeavor.
He was not long in attracting a clientele, those who had known his
father being ready to trust their health in the hands of the younger
man, but he soon demonstrated such ability that he was able to build
up a practice entirely apart from any influence that might be reflected
upon him on account of the achievements of his sire. He is now known
as an able practitioner, a steady-handed surgeon, and a close and assid-
uous student, and his standing among his professional brethren is de-
servedly high. In 1900, Dr. Hunt became medical director of the
Liberal Life Assurance Company, with which he has been connected in
the same capacity to the present time.
In 1887, Dr. Hunt was U7iited in marriage (first) with Miss Adda
Andrews, of Sherwood, Minnesota, and to this union' was born one son:
Volney M., an electrical engineer. Dr. Hunt's first wife died in 1900,
and he was later married to Mrs. Elizabeth J. Ross, a widow, daughter of
Cr. W. Kidwell.
Dr. Hunt is a prominent Mason, being a member of Mt. Moriah Lodge
No. 77, F. & A. M., Anderson Chapter No. 52, R. A. M., Anderson Com-
mandery No. 22, K. T., Murat Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., Indianapolis,
and has attained to the thirty-second degree. During his long resi-
dence in Anderson, he has formed a wide acquaintance, and in this he
numbers many sincere friends. The Doctor's comfortable modem resi-
dence is situated at No. 1225 Jackson street.
William C. Pettigrew. A former trustee of Green township, Mr.
Pettigrew is one of the leading farmers of the township where he has
spent practically all his life and as the result of many years' industry
and careful management now owns a splendid country home in section
35 of this township. William C Pettigrew was born on a farm in his
present home township November 8. 1858. His parents were John and
Sarah f Jones) Pettigrew. The father was a native of Virginia, from
which state he came to Madison county when a young man and followed
422 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
farming. His death occurred in August, 1913, when 85 years old.
Sarah Jones, the mother, was born in Green township, belongs to one
of the oldest families settled here, and is now deceased. The eight chil-
dren in the family were named James, George W., William C, Dora,
Etta, Charles E., Lona, and Rachael.
William Cane Pettigrew was reared in Green township, and at-
tended the district school near his home. He was a schoolboy, alternating
his school work with employment on the farm until he was about eigh-
teen years of age. He then continued at home with his father imtil
twenty-one. He married Miss Sarah 0. Edwards, who was bom in
Green township, and also educated in the district schools. Her parents
were Robert and Rebecca (Gibson) Edwards. Mr. and Mrs. Pettigrew
had five children, namely: Fred L., a graduate of the Pendleton high
school, married, and a farmer in this county; Warren R., who grad-
uated from the Pendleton high school, and who married Hazel Crist;
Elsie, wife of Forrest Moore, now living with his father and farming
on shares; Ruth, wife of Ed. Thompson; and Mildred, a student in the
public schools. The family are members of the Methodist church at
Ingalls. Mr. Pettigrew is a Democrat, has been active in his party and
was honored by his fellow citizens with the office of trustee of Green
township from 1904 to 1908. His home farm on section 35 comprises
one hundred and fifty-four acres. This land he has improved accord-
ing to the modern standards of Indiana agriculture, has a fine and com-
fortable home, and an excellent frame bam for the shelter of his stock
and grain, and keeps high grade stock.
Horace E. Jones, M. D. It is eminently fitting that the career of
Dr. Horace E. Jones be presented in this volume, for he has been a prac-
titioner of medicine for upwards of forty years and his entire profes-
sional career has been passed within the borders of Madison county.
During his long and honorable career in Anderson he has been success-
ful not only in a material way, but has established himself firmly in the
esteem and affection of a wide circle of sincere friends, and as a man
who has always had the welfare of his community and its people at
heart is accounted one of Anderson 's most valued citizens. He was born
in Henry county. Indiana, July 2, 1845, a son of Dr. Thomas and Mary
C. (Conwell) Jones.
Thomas Jones, IM. D., was born in Wayne coimty. Indiana, in 1823,
and early in life decided upon the medical profession as the medium
through which he should strive for success. Accordingly, after prepa-
ration, he entered the Ohio Medical College, and after his graduation
therefrom settled in Henry county, where he continued in practice until
1846, when he came to Madison county and established his home and
practice at Pendleton. In about the year of 1854 he came from there
to Anderson, and this city thereafter continued his home and the field
of his activities until his death, in October, 1875. He became widely
and favorably known in his locajity and had many friends both in and
outside of the medical profession. He married Mary C. Conwell, whose
father, Isaac Conwell, was one of the pioneer settlers of Union county,
and her death occurred in November. 1911, at the advanced age of
eighty-eight years. Her parents were formerly from Maryland.
It is not unusual for the men in a family to follow similar vocations,
and especially is this true in the field of medicine, where son follows
father, showing the same abilities and inclinations. At any rate such
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 423
was the case with ur. Horace E. Jones, although he first had some mili-
tary experience. When sixteen years of age he enlisted as chief bugler
of the Second Indiana Cavalry, and, with it, participated in numerous
engagements, including the Battle of Shiloh and the Siege of Corinth.
He was then appointed a midshipman at the U. S. Naval Academy in
1863 from which he graduated in 1867 and served in the navy till 1871.
Having rounded out nearly nine years of continuous military service,
he resigned his commission in the navy, returned to his home, and took
up the study of medicine in his father's office. After some time spent
under the -elder man's preceptorship he entered the Ohio Medical Col-
lege, his father's alma mater, at Cincinnati, Ohio, and was graduated
from that institution in 1873, wdth the degree of Doctor of Medicine.
He at once returned to Anderson, and since then has been in the enjoy-
ment of an excellent professional business. The Doctor has the ability,
the ready sympathy and the uatui-al inclination for all the branches of
his profession, and may indeed be said to be one who has chosen well.
He possesses a fine medical library, and with this and the leading medi-
cal periodicals, keeps himself abreast of the discoveries and advance-
ments which so prominently characterize the science of medicine. He
has made a number of wise business investments, and is the owner of
much valuable city and farm property, including his modern residence
at 138 West Tenth street, one of the leading residence thoroughfares of
Anderson. A Democrat in politics, for three years he was a member of
the school board. His fraternal connections are with the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks and the Independent Order of Odd Pel-
lows, in the latter of which he is a past grand master, and he also enjoys
membership in Major May Post, No. 244, G. A. R.
In 1873 Dr. Jones was married to Miss Mary C. Cockefair, of Cam-
bridge Cit.y, Indiana, and a son and daughter have been bom to this
union. Thomas M., the son, is a graduate of the Indiana State Univer-
sity and of the Johns Hopkins University, medical department, and is
now engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery at Anderson.
The daughter, Nellie, is the wife of Ralph Clark, of Chicago.
Clement Wareen Ho©ven. When most men die the ranks close
up, the community moves on without a break, but a wide circle of ac-
quaintances will long continue to miss the splendid personality of Cle-
ment Warren Hooven, who was unexpectedly called from earthly cares
and trials on the 28th of August, 1913. He was in all the word implies
a man — a man honorable in business, just in his dealings and one who
maintained the highest standard of citizenship. Local publications
truthfully said of him that his life was not only gentle and pure, but
that nature had so mixed its good elements in him that every one pro-
nounced him a noble man. He was a leader in this community, and
helped to build the city of Anderson. He was generous with his means,,
liberal with his time, wise with his counsel — all for Anderson, and he
left the impress on this community of a successful, progressive and
honest man.
Clement Warren Hooven was bom at Ansonia, Ohio, February 9,
1863, a son of the late Dr. Warren and Marrietta (Riley) Hooven, a
Daj-ton, Ohio, where the mother still resides. He received a common
school training, and upon reaching man's estate began his business
career as a traveling freight agent for the Big Pour Railroad Company.
For a time he was also station agent for that company at Winchester,
424 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Indiana, aud in about the year 1893 he came to Anderson to represent
the Big Four Railroad Company as general agent. But soon after
locating in Anderson he became interested in gas and acquired the
control of a gas plant in Hazelwood, while a few years later he etfected
the consolidations of all the gas plants in the city and sold them to a
Cincinnati syndicate. When the Cincinnati company failed and the
plants were sold at receiver's sale Mr. Hooven became the purchaser,
although he soon afterward sold to the Dawes syndicate of Chicago,
represented in this city by the Central Indiana Gas Company.
Mr. Hooven also purchased and developed the Anderson Tool Com-
pany, which was one of the best known manufacturing concerns m the
city when it was destroyed by fire in 1911. He was also interested in
the Remy Electric Company and had other business interests, including
the ownership of several valuable pieces of real estate. In the summer
of 1913 he was one of the directors of the "Made in Anderson" exhibit,
and was active in promoting and advertising the novel exhibition of
Anderson products. He was ever ready when Anderson called and was
always first in her needed improvements.
In fraternal circles Mr. Hooven was well known as a member of the
Masonic order and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and
he was the owner of two stories of the building on Main street in which
1863, a son of the late Dr. Warren and Marietta (Riley) Hooven, of
the Elks' home is located. He was a member of the Anderson Club
and the Country Club, and at the time of his death was one of the di-
rectors of the latter. On the 18th of November, 1896, he was married
to Miss Anna Cox, daughter of ilr. and "Sirs. L. ^l. Cos, of Anderson.
Mrs. Hooven is a native daughter of Wayne county, Indiana, and with
her two children, Sarah and Warren, survive the husband and father.
She is a niece of N. A. and Charles Cox, merchants of Anderson, aud
she is the president of the Anderson Associated Charities, an institution
in which her husband was deeply interested.
For some time prior to his death it was known to ^Iv. Hooven 's fam-
ily and a few of his intimate friends that he was afflicted with heart
trouble, but no fears were felt until on August 18, 1913, when he
motored to Lake Maxincuckee with his family for an outing. Before
reaching the lake he became so exhausted at times that he allowed his
daughter to drive the car, but upon arriving at the lake he appeared
to improve until on Thursday, the 21st, he was stricken with a severe
attack of indigestion, accompanied by hemorrhage of the stomach,
and he was taken to a sanatorium at Battle Creek, Michigan. But the
hoped-for recoverj' did not materialize, and on Thursdaj' night, Au-
gust 28, 1913, Clement W. Hooven laid down the burden of life and
passed over to the silent majority. His body was brought to Anderson
for burial, and the funeral on Monday, September 1, 1913, was attended
by a large concourse of friends and acquaintances. "Columns of beau-
tiful words," his community said, "could be written in memory of
Clement Warren Hooven, but they are unnecessary. His life work, so
successful, is ended, and his gentle spirit is beyond their message —
enjoying immortality. And finally, in Valhalla, where the spirits of
the blessed immortals assemble, when the roll-call of departed Ander-
Bonians is sounded and the name of Clement Warren Hooven is an-
nounced it will be the dearest pleasure of the immortal souls of Colonel
Milton S. Robinson, Captain W. R. Myers, James L. Kilgore, John R.
Terhune, "V. K. McCullough, Charles T. Doxey and others to pronounce
'^A^J^
HlyTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 425
ill unison that highest eulogy kno/wn to manJdnd— Died on the field of
duty and with the universal esteem, love and respect of his neighbors."
Martin L. Cromee. Probably there is no better known citizen in
Anderson than Martin L. Cromer, who for more than twelve years has
served in the capacity of assistant postmaster here, and whose efficient,
courteous and obliging services have not only been of great value to his
adopted city, but have served to gain him widespread popularity. Mr.
Cromer entered upon his career as a member of the legal profession,
but since his appointment to his official position he has given the greater
part of his attention to the discharge of its duties. He is a native of
the Hoosier state, having been born at Newcastle in Henry county,
March 9, 1854, a son of Josiah and Mary A. (Schultz) Cromer, natives
of Pennsylvania and early settlers of Henry county, Indiana. Josiah
Cromer was born July 11, 1825, and was one of twin sons. His father
was George Cromer, who was born on the 3d of June, 1788, and the
maternal grandfather was bom June 3, 1810, in Pennsylvania.
Martin L. Cromer received his early educational training in the
public schools of Middletown, Indiana, and from there enrolled as a
student at the State University at Bloomington, where he continued
to assiduously pursue his studies for several years. Following this he
spent two years at Butler University, Irvington, Indiana, and then
going to Springfield, Ohio, spent two years in Wittfenberg College and
graduated therefrom in 1879. For one year after leaving college Mr.
Cromer was engaged in teaching school, and in 1880 he came to Ander-
son as an educator, but not long afterward went to Eureka Springs,
Arkansas, where he passed twelve months. Returning to Indiana, he
located on a farm in Delaware county, where he remained until 1888,
and then gave his attention to farming in Madison county, in which
he met with a satisfying degree of success, but in 1896 again came to
Anderson and began to read law in the office of the well known legal
firm of Wood & Ellis, being admitted to the bar in 1898. In 1901 he
began his active practice alone, and in the same year received the ap-
pointment to the office of deputy postmaster under Robert Grimes, a
position he has continued to hold under succeeding postmasters to the
present time. ^Ir. Cromer manifests a commendable interest in all the
live topics of the day and withholds his support from no measure which
his judgment tells him will be of benefit to his city or its people. His
many admirable qualities have gained him a wide circle of friends, and
Anderson numbers him among its dependable citizens. In political
matters he has always supported Republican candidates and princi-
ples. His fraternal connection is with the local lodge of the Knights
of Pythias.
In 1880 Mr. Cromer was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. Bron-
nenberg, of Anderson, Indiana, a daughter of the late Carrol Bronnen-
berg. Three children have been born to this union, namely : Mrs. Ethel
E. Forse, whose husband, Harry Forse, Jr., is secretary of the Union
Traction Company of Indiana : Maud D. became the wife of Dr. J. D.
Miller, a physician at Indianapolis, Indiana ; and Grace, who married
Dr. 0. B. Norman, who is engaged in the practice of medicine at Bed-
ford, Indiana.
JoN.^s Stewart, M. D. Now one of the oldest members of the med-
ical profession in Madison county, and prominently known to the
426 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
medical fraternity throughout the state, having served some years ago
as the first president of the Indiana State Medical Association, after it
was reorganized and changed from the old title of Medical Society,
Dr. Stewart has been identified by residence and by business and profes-
sional activities in Anderson since 1870.
Jonas Stewart is a native of Indiana, having been born in Delaware
county, January 26, 1843, a son of Lewis and Mary (Crampton) Stew-
art. The father, who was a son of William Stewart, a native of Ken-
tucky, was born in Highland county, Ohio. The grandfather had first
moved his home from Kentucky to Ohio, where he was numbered among
the earlier settlers of Highland county. Lewis Stewart attained his
education in an old log school house, peculiar to his time, and with
such equipment as he could obtain from this primitive school he secured
a teacher's certificate or license, and was engaged in teaching for some
years during the early part of his career. He married Mary Crampton,
who was born in Maryland, and became a resident of Ohio during
childhood, her parents also being among the early settlers of Ohio, in
Miami county. She died in 1887 in the sixty-eighth year of her life.
Dr. Stewart spent his boyhood on a farm, and attended the pubUe
schools in Delaware county, Indiana. He later attended school at Troy,
Ohio, and in 1862 he entered the Northwestern Christian University at
IndianapoUs. He enlisted as a private in the Union army, going into
the service on August 28, 1862, in Company E of the Forty-fourth
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, the regiment being commanded by Col. Sam-
uel A. Gilbert. The regiment was sent into Kentucky, and later to
Tennessee, and he saw a good deal of service in the mountains of Ken-
tucky and Tennessee, after which he was transferred with his regiment
to Virginia. After nearly three years of soldiering he received his
honorable discharge on May 30, 1865, and then returned to college at
Indianapolis. He spent one year in study there, then taught school
for a while and in this way gradually prepared himself for a profes-
sional life. He finallj' matriculated in the University of Michigan at
Ann Arbor, where he pui-sued his studies for some time, and later went
to the Long Island Hospital Medical College at Brooklyn, New York,
where he was graduated with the degree of M. D. on June 30, 1870.
Dr. Stewart at once came to Anderson and opened his office, beginning
general practice in August of the same year. He has enjoyed success
and distinction in his profession, and during the last two years haa
given up any attempt to extend his practice and now confines his atten-
tion to attendance in professional capacities upon his old patrons, many
of whom he has cared for for more than a generation.
In business and financial circles at Anderson, Dr. Stewart is recog-
nized as one of the very successful men. He has for a number of years
held the position of vice-president of the Anderson Loan Association,
and he is also a stockholder in the National Exchange Bank at Ander-
son and of the Anderson Trust Company. The doctor owns an excel-
lent farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Madison county.
Dr. Stewart is a member of the Madison County Medical Society,
the Indiana State Medical Association, of which he was the first presi-
dent after its reorganization, serving in his official capacity in the year
1904, and he was vice-president of the State Medical Society, in 1897,
prior to its reorganization under its present name, the Indiana State
Medical Association.
Dr. Stewart has contributed data concerning the physicians of Mad-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 427
ison oounty to the Medical History of Indiana, edited by Dr. G. W. H.
Kemper, aud he is also associate editor on the subject of the medical
profession for this present history of Madison county. He retains his
association with old armv comrades through his membership in Major
May Post No. 244. G. A." R.
Dr. Stewart was married on September 4, 1870, to Miss Mahala
Brandon of Middletown, Henry county, Indiana, a daughter of Greenup
Brandon, one of the first settlers of Delaware county, Indiana. He
and his wife have been members of the Central Christian Church in
Anderson for forty-three years, and are among the stanchest and most
reliable members of that body. The handsome family residence is
located at 1015 Delaware street.
James A. Van Osdol. The bar of Madison county numbers Mr.
Van Osdol amo^ig its leading and representative members. He has
practiced in the courts here for twenty years, and controls a large and
important clientage. He is the general attorney for the Union Trac-
tion Company of Indiana, one of the substantial and important cor-
porations controlling intenirban electric lines in this state. Prior to
entering upon the practice of law Mr. Van Osdol gained distinctive
success and prestige as a representative of the pedagogic profession,
and he is known as a man of fine attainments and sterling character.
He was born in Ohio county, Indiana, August 4, 1860, and is a scion
of sterling pioneer families of Indiana, within whose gracious borders
were also born his parents, Boston W. and Rachael (Jenkins) Van
Osdol. Like many another wiio has attained success in professional life
James A. Van Osdol gained his initial experience in connection with
the sturdy and benignant influences' of the farm, the while he availed
himself of the advantages of the district school in the vicinity of his
home. Proving himself eligible for pedagogic honors, he began teach-
ing in the district schools in his native county at the age of seventeen
years, and continued in the profession for six years. In the mean-
while he had pursued the study of law. and moving to the city of Vevay,
in Switzerland county, in 1S84. he entered upon the practice of law
there. The political situation in the county at that time was such that
in a short time it afforded him the opportunity of election to the office
of county superintendent of schools, and after serving one term in that
office he returned to the practice of law.
In 1893 Mr. Van Osdol came to Madison county and established his
home in the prosperous little city of Elwood, where he soon acquired a
substantial practice and proved himself one of the resourceful and ver-
satile members of the bar of the county. In 1895 he found it expedient
to establish his home and professional headquarters at Anderson, the
judicial center of the count.y, and here he entered into practice with
Charles L. Henry and Byron Mcl\lahan in the practice of law. Later
he joined with Mr. Henr.y and his associates in the organization of the
Union Traction Company, and early in the history of that organzation
Mr. Van Osdol was chosen its general attorney and has since continued
as the head of its legal department. His official duties in this connec-
tion have demanded his interposition in many important affairs of the
company, and he has represented the same in various cities along the
intenirban lines controlled by the corporation. He is a man of fine
presence, is genial, sincere and direct, and though he has never mani-
fested any desire to woo publicity he is known as a loyal and progres-
428 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sive citizen, and in polities he accords staunch allegiance to the
Eepublican party.
Mr. Van Osdol was married in 1894 to Mrs. Mary F. Qoodin, for-
merly Miss Gould, then a widow residing at Peru, Indiana, with her
little son, Donald Goodin. Mr. Van Osdol also had a son, Robert, by a
former marriage, and these four constituted the Van Osdol household
when they moved to the city of Anderson, but in 1902 this little circle
wjus increased by the birth of Gould J. Van Osdol. At the present
Robert is residing at Pasadena, California, and Donald is at Yorktown,
Indiana.
Feed D. Wright. Foremost among the younger business men of
Anderson who have made good in their undertakings and enterprises
may be mentioned Fred D. Wright, secretary and treasurer of the Well-
ington Milling Company for a number of years, and identified with
the business in a lesser capacity since 1907. He is well versed in mill-
ing lore, for he began to take an active interest in the work as early as
his seventeenth year, and has maintained a continuous identification
with the milling business from that time until the present. His rise
has been a steady and continuous one and altogether pleasing to those
who have watched his career from boyhood and are conversant with the
many excellent traits that have contributed to his success.
A native son of Randolph county, Fred D. Wright was born in th(
town of Modoc on September 13, 1877. His parents were Willis C. ana
MoUie (Vardaman) Wright. The father was also a native of Randolph
county, and was a farmer by occupation. He is now living in the city
of Anderson, but the wife and mother has been called to the home
beyond.
Fred D. Wright attended the village school of Modoc until his six-
teenth year, and qiiitting his studies at that time he accepted a position
in a flouring mill at Muncie, Indiana, the firm with which he identified
himself being the Wysor & Hibbets Milling Company. While in the
employ of that company he entered the service of the U. S. Army, en-
listing with the Twentieth Infantry, U. S. Regiment, on the 12th of-
May, 1898. He served in all the engagements in Cuba, and returned
home in the following August, receiving his discharge in November fol-
lowing. While with the Wysor & Hibbets Milling Company, Mr. Wright
received a thorough training in the milling business, and he continued
with the firm for about seven years, leaving their service in 1902, but
acquiring in that time a complete knowledge of the business in all its
various departments. In that year he came to Anderson and entered
the employ of the Wellington & Son Flouring Mill, remaining with them
until 1905, when he went to Los Angeles. California, in an effort to
better the condition of his health, which, while not incapacitating him
for work, was sufficiently bad to cause him some concern. But a short
time in the healthful climate of southern California restored him to
abundant health and vigor, and he returned to Anderson in 1906 and
assumed charge of the Pioneer Milling Company at Linngrove, Adams
county, Indiana. In January, 1913, he acquired an interest in the Well-
ington & Son Milling Company, which, by the retirement of James
Wellington, the father, came to be known as the Wellington Milling
Company. Soon thereafter the son also retired from the concern, leav-
ing Mr. Wright in full charge of the activities of the business. Under
his regime the mills have taken on new strength and the business is
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 429
being pushed forward to an exceptionally high plane. The plant is
equipped with a complete roller system and separators, and every
labor-saving device known to the milling business is found in operation
in this thoroughly modem and well conducted plant. With a capacity
of one hundred and twenty-five barrels daily, the mill runs at capacity
the year around. It has a large local trade, and is at the same time
enjraged in handling wheat, oats and all other grains peculiar to this
region, its principal markets being Baltimore, Maryland, and Cleveland
and Cincinnati. Ohio. The care of the business could be in no better
hands than Mr. Wright's, for an addition to his thorough knowledge
of the business from its more practical side, he is also an accomplished
office man, thoroughly qualified to oversee the clerical side of the busi-
ness and to understand every detail of office management. He fitted
himself for that phase of the work in the Anderson Business College,
where he pui"sued a thorough course of training some years ago.
In 1901 Jlr. Wright was married to Miss Iva E. Longfellow, of Rush
county. Indiana, a daughter of S. C. Longfellow, for many years a
teacher in Rush county and one of the best known men of that dis-
trict, and of Rosetta (Durham) Longfellow, a descendant of a pioneer
family of Rush county. Two children have been bom to Mr. and Mrs.
Wright — Noland C. and Noline M. Wright.
Mr. Wright is a member of Anderson Lodge of the Knights of
Pythias and also of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at An-
derson. The family home is at 203 East Fifteenth street.
Otik) W. DorGL.\s. The work of the firm of Daniels, Lyst & Douglas
in the construction of mary of the most substantial thoroughfares of
Anderson and the surrounding cities and towns, has been of a character
not only to leave its impress on the community for many years to come,
but to brills; the members of the concern prominently before the public
as business men of ability, whose activities are serving to advance their
section in many ways. Otho W. Douglas, the junior member of this
firm, a man of wide and varied experience and versatile talents, is num-
bered among those who have been the architects of their own fortunes.
Although a man of scholarly attainments, he has worked with his hands
and trodden the familiar but difficult self-made way to success, and his
career has distinctly demonstrated that force, strength, character and
resolution dwell within him, (|ualities necessary to those who would gain
a full measure of prosperity. ^Ir. Douglas was born in Iroquois county,
Illinois, October 25, 1874. He is the third son of James Hamilton Doug-
las, a native of Indiana, and a representative of an old and honored
family of the Hoosier State. Mr. Douglas came from Washington
county, Indiana, to Illinois, where he spent only a short time, when he
came back to the State of his nativity. Subsequently he went to Kansas,
where he has resided during the past thirty years. His wife passed
away at the time of the birth of the subject of this review.
The early educational training of Otho W. Douglas was secured in
the graded and high schools of Salem, Indiana, and on leaving the
latter entered the State Normal school at Terre Haute. Indiana. Fol-
lowing his graduation therefrom, he became a student in the State
University at Bloomington. Indiana, and then adopted the vocation of
educator and after teaching for some time in the schools of Salem, be-
came a teacher in the high school there. He also taught in the Anderson
high school six years, and then he turned his attention to business
430 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
pursuits, and became a member of the firm of Daniels & Lyst, the style
at that time being changed to Daniels, Lyst & Douglas, and as such it
has continued to remain to the present time. This firm, from its exten-
sive acquaintance, and the long period in which its members have been
known to the business world, is recognized one of the leading concerns
of street paving contractors in this part of the state. Mr. Douglas has
justly won the American title of self-made man. His career has been
one of constant endeavor. A man of great energy and enterprise, of
force of character and resolute purpose, at all times his business has
been conducted along the lines of commercial honor and personal in-
tegrity. Although essentially a business man, he has not been indiffer-
ent to the pleasures of social association with his fellow-men, and is pop-
ular with his fellow members in the local lodges of the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America.
In 1895, Mr. Douglas was united in marriage with Miss Maude M.
Zink, of Salem, Indiana, a daughter of Jacob D. and Martha (Crim)
Zink. This union has been blessed with the birth of one daughter : Anna
Katherine, who is attending school in Anderson. Mr. Douglas and his
wife and daughter are members of the First Christian Church. The
neat and substantial family residence is located on "West Eleventh
street, ilr. Douglas is rather independent in his political views, believ-
ing it his right to cast his ballot for the candidate he deems best fitted
for the office, irrespective of party lines. He has never aspired to public
ofiice nor entered the arena as a candidate, but takes a lively interest in
all matters that affect the welfare of his adopted community, and may
at all times be depended upon to support those movements which make
for progress and good citizenship.
J. C. Rodger, V. S. The veterinary doctor and surgeon of today
recognizes the benefit of science as applied to his profession, and it is a
noteworthy fact that, ^\ithin the last several decades, the course in this
line has been as strict as that of a regular doctor of medicine, while the
scope of practice being wider, many of the progressive men of today
are taking up the veterinary line in preference. One of the successful
veterinarians of IMadison county is found in the person of Dr. J. C.
Rodger, a member of the firm of Rodger & Catey, of No. 715 Jackson
street, Anderson. Dr. Rodger was born near the city of Toronto, Canada,
August 24, 1865, and is a son of John and Helen (Cowan) Rodger, both
natives of Scotland, the father being a farmer. He was a man of energy,
became prosperous and much respected in his community, and owned
a large farm in the vicinity of Toronto, where both he and his wife passed
away in the year 1901.
The early education of Dr. Rodger was secured in the public and
high schools of Toronto, and he spent some little time on the farm. There
he showed a decided inclination for the veterinary profession, thi.s hav-
ing been developed through his love and understanding of animals, and
he accordingly decided to enter upon a professional career. He entered
the Toronto Veterinary College, one of the oldest and best institutfons
of its kind in America, and was graduated in 1887, coming to the United
States in the same year and locating at Anderson. Here he opened an
oflRce and established himself as a veterinarj- surgeon, and as he became
acquainted and known as a graduate of a college, his practice extended
and he was soon in the possession of an excellent professional business.
It now extends not only all over Anderson, but to various points in
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 431
Madison and adjoining counties. *He devotes his practice to all domes-
tic animals, of which he has made a careful study, and his success
in cases of a complicated nature has placed him well up among the
leaders of his calling. In 1904 Dr. Rodger formed a partnership
with Oscar M. Catey, under the firm name of Rodger & Catey, and this as-
sociation has continued to the present time. Dr. Rodger's skill has caused
liini to be called upon to lecture on various occasions, and for ten years
he was an instructor on Bovine Pathology in the Indianapolis Veterinary
College, Indianapolis. He is a member of the Indiana Veterinary Med-
ical Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association. He
is a prominent ]Mason, belonging to Mount Moriah Lodge No. 77, F.
& A. M., to Anderson Chapter No. 52, R. A. M., and to Anderson Com-
mandery No. 32, K. T. He is connected likewise with !Murat Temple,
A. A. 0. N. M. S.. and has attained to the thirty-second degree in
Indiana Consistory.
The stables of the firm of Rodgers & Catey, at No. 715 Jackson street,
are substantially constructed in modem manner, are 32x144 feet, and
include all modern equipment, box stalls and exercising yard in the rear.
Is.\.\c E. ]\I.\Y. A successful business man and public spirited citizen,
Jlr. May has been identified by residence with Madison county practi-
cally all his life. He began his career as a worker for others, and by
industr.y and ability became master of his own circumstances, and since
having the office of county clerk a few years ago has been engaged in
the .iobbing business at Anderson.
Isaac E. May was born July 7, 1861, at Anderson, Indiana, a son of
Isaac M. and Samantha (Kindle) May. His father was one of Indiana's
soldiers who were sacrificed during the Civil war. Isaac M. Maj was
born in Shenandoah county, Virginia, in 1830, came north and settled
in Indiana, at the beginning of the war enlisted in Compay A of the
Nineteenth Indiana Infantry, was promoted to major, and the business of
war led him back to his native state, and at the battle of Gainesville,
Virginia, in August, 1862, he was among the slain. His wife, Samantha
(Kindle) Ma}% was born at Anderson. Indiana, January 6, 1836, repre-
senting an old family of Madison county, and her death occurred Feb-
ruary 26, 1896.
Isaac E. May, who was but one year old when his father died,
grow up in Anderson, received a common school education, and has
long been active in public and business affairs. In 1898 came his election
to the office of county clerk of Madison county on the Democratic ticket,
and his service continued until 1902, being marked by a most capable
administration of the duties connected with that important county office.
At the present time ^Ir. May is engaged in the jobbing of plumbing, gas
and mill supplies. Besides his public service as just mentioned, he has
served as councilman from the Third Ward of Anderson. His fraternal
affiliations are with the Masonic Order and the Benevolent and Protec-
tive Order of Elks.
On February 24. 1892, at Anderson, Mr. May married ^liss Anna L.
Sansberry. Mrs. May is a daughter of James W. and Nancy (Jones")
Sansberry, the father an attorney. Mrs. May was educated at St. Mary
of the Woods at Terre Haute. To their marriage was born on June 6,
1893, one son. James S. ]\Iay.
432 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Jonathan A. Busbt. On section nineteen of Stony Creek township
is located the valuable and attractive homestead of Jonathan A. Busbj'.
His farm of two hundred and twenty-three acres represents the life ^vork
and achievements of a citizen who was bom in the township and has lived
all his life here a quiet industrious farmer, and man of thorough integrity
in all his business and personal relations.
Jonathan A. Busby was born in Stony Creek township. November 3,
1858, a son of Isaac and Sarah A. (Conrad) Busby. The father was a
native of Greenbriar county, "West Virgdnia, and the mother, of New
Jersey, and each came to Madison county when young, grew up to<;ether,
and were married. They spent all their lives in this county, death com-
ing to the father in 1879 and the mother in 1912. They were Hie parents
of three sons and three daughters, namely: Jane, the widow of Oeorge
Rambo; Missouri, widow of Frank E. Woodward; Jonathan, and Wade,
of Lapel; Milton, postmaster at Lapel; Ida, wife of H. R. Jones, of
Stony Creek township.
Jonathan A. Busby was reared on the home farm in this township,
and as a boy attended the public schools at Fishersburg. When he was
seventeen years of age he had a good common school training and then
began his practical career as a farmer, taking charge of the home estate
after his father's death. On November 14, 1881, he married Mary J.
Huntzinger. Their married life was continued for nineteen years until
her deflth in 1900. The three children born of their marriage were:
Roxie, a graduate of the Lapel high school, and the wife of Jesse Fisher
of Lapel; Edna, graduate of the common schools and a student in the
high school ; Arthur, who is a gradtiate of the common schools and lives
at home with his father. Mr. Busby married on the sixth of March.
1910, Ethel Taylor, who was bom in Madison county, a daughter of
Leroy C. Taylor, a retired farmer and a native of this county. She re-
ceived her education in the district schools of this county. Mr. and Mrs.
Busby are members of the Methodist church at Lapel, and he is one
of the trustees of that church. Fraternally he is affiliated with Lapel
Lodge No. 386, Knights of Pythias, and is a past chancellor and member
of the Grand Lodsre. In politics he has always heen a Republican up to
the campaign of 1912. hut the issues in politics were such that year that
he gave his vote for the Proeressive party and its principles. He is
secretary of the township advisory board.
Arthur Davis. A well known success as a farmer and live stock
dealer has been that of Arthur Davis in Stony Creek township. He is a
native of this part of Madison county, has spent most of his life within
the limits of the county, and when he began his independent career it
was with a capital of self-reliance and well-trained body and industrious
habits rather than with money, or influence. He and his wife have
prospered since their marriage and their first attempt to make a home,
and they now enjoy not only material prosperity but the esteem of all
the community in which they reside.
Arthur Davis was bom in Stony Creek township July 8, 1870. a son
of D. B. Davis, being the second in a family of six children. When he
was old enough he attended the district school and was a student during
the winter term, up to the time he was eisrhteen years of use. He then
took nn farming as .n regular occupatioTi and continued in that line
until February 28, 1893. at which date his marriage occurredto Miss
Hattie Wertz. She was bom in Anderson township and received her
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 433
education in the public schools near* that city. After their marriage, Mr.
and Mrs. Davis spent a time on the old home farm, and then moved to
Randolph county, this state, where he spent a short time in farming, was
then again on the old homestead, and several j'ears later by the thrifty
management of himself and wife, was able to buy sixty-three acres of
land. Since then he has done a large business in breeding cattle and
shipping by the car-load lots. Among his other enterprises he owns
and operates a threshing outfit, and by the combination of his enterprise
has prospered very well during the last seventeen years.
The family of eight children of Mr. and Mrs, Davis are as follows:
Clara A., age nineteen a graduate of the common schools and of the
Anderson high school ; Alonzo, age eighteen, also a graduate of the com-
mon and high school, and of the Commercial College at Anderson ; Ruth,
a student in the high school at Anderson, and a graduate of the common
schools near the old home; Doctor D., fourteen years of age; Paul, age
eleven; Theodore, age ten; Virginia, age seven; and Birce, age five years.
Mr. Davis is affiliated with Lodge No. 1 of the Loyal Order of Moose at
Anderson. In his politics he was always a regular Republican up to the
.campaign of 1912 at which time he voted the Progressive ticket. He is
a man of pleasing manner, and by reason of his success enjoys the esteem
of the entire community about his home in Stony Creek township.
WiTjI.iam a. Morris. Among the prosperous farming estates of Stony
Creek township that of which William A. Morris is proprietor is by all
means one of the most attractive viewed in its superficial aspects and
also one of the most profitable as a business enterprise. Mr. Morris is
a general farmer and stock raiser, owns one hundred and four acres in
his own homestead, and is engaged in the operation of more than two
hundred acres of land in this county.
William A. Morris was born in Miami county, Indiana, October 19,
1860. a son of Isaac and Nancy (Haney) Morris. The paternal grand-
father was William Morris, one of the old settlers of Rush county,
Indiana, where Isaac Morris was born. Nancy Morris was born in Ken-
tucky, and came to Madison county, Indiana, with her parents, being
married in I\radison county, and she and Mr. Morris making their home
here until near the outbreak of the Civil war. They then moved to
Miami county where Mrs. Morris died. Some years later the father re-
turned to Madison county and spent his last days in Anderson town-
ship. There were five children in the family, three of whom are living
in 1913, namely: T. J. Morris, of Anderson township, a farmer; Maria,
wife of Henry Warren of Anderson township ; and William A.
Mr. William A. Morris was reared on a farm and attained his educa-
tion in the district schools at Miami county. When sixteen years of age
he was sent to the Amboy Academy, one of the best schools of intermediate
grade in this section of the state, and he continued a student in that
institution until he was nineteen years of age. He continued on the farm
with his father until he was twenty-one and then came with the family
to Madison county. He was married in Lafayette township of this
county in February, 1883, to Miss Hester Rogers, who was born in Madi-
son county and received a common school education. They became the
parents of two children, one of whom is now living, namely : Nondas, aged
seven. Mr. Morris and family worship in the Methodist Protestant
church of Bethal, and he is one of the trustees of that society. In poli-
tics he is a Democrat, and his ability as a business man and his integrity
434 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
as a citizen have been honored by his fellow citizens in his election to the
ofiSce of township assessor of Stony Creek, in which he served for two
j'cars. Mr. Morris is a man of quiet and unassuming manner, and yet
his life work as a farmer shows a noteworthy degree of practical achieve-
ment and a most honorable success.
Charles Poindextek. Farming in Madison county has always been
a most profitable general occupation, and though within recent years
manufacturing has become so important a part of the productive activi-
ties, agriculture is likely to remain through all the years as the most
substantial pursuit to which man's attention can be given here or else-
where. In Stony Creek Township Mr. Poindexter is a farmer who for
a number of years had experience in the industry, and finally retired
to an estate in the country where his enterprise has been put to excellent
use, so that he now owns one of the most attractive and valuable rural
homes in Stony Creek.
Charles Poindexter is a native of the state of Illinois, born in Ver-
million county, November 6, 1868, a son of James and Emily (McCallis-
ter) Poindexter. The father was born in Virginia, and the mother in
Adams township of Madison county, Indiana, and she now lives in An-
derson at her home on Fletcher Street. The father passed away in 1879.
He had been a soldier in the Civil war, serving throughout the period of
hostilities from 1^61 to 1865, and while a soldier came home on a furlough
and married. He enlisted as a private, was promoted to lieutenant, and
at his discharge was captain of his company. For some yeai"s after the
war he lived in Illinois, but finally returned to Madison county, and his
death occurred in Adams township. There were four children in the
family, named as follows : Cora, wife of Eb Parrish, of Anderson ;
Charles; Nettie, wife of H. Scott of Fall Creek township; Maud, wife of
Martin Wiseheart of Anderson, Indiana.
Charles Poindexter was reared on a farm and also spent part of his
youth in Indianapolis. His education was attained in the public schools
and he continued to live on the homestead with his mother until his mar-
riage. He married Miss Florence M. Stanley, of Anderson township,
this county. Mrs. Poindexter was educated in the public schools. After
their marriage they moved to Indianapolis where Mr. Poindexter was
employed as a tool maker with one of the large industrial establishments
of that city for six years, from the fall of 1891 to the spring of 1896.
In the latter year he came to the farm where he lived until September,
1905, at which time he moved to the estate of eighty-five acres in Stony
Creek township, which is his present home. He has displayed all the
ability of a progressive farmer, and among the numerous improvements
placed upon his estate is the ten-room modern house in which he and his
family reside. Mr. and Mrs. Poindexter have two daughters, namely:
Gretchen, wife of Lawrence White, and Vera, a student in the seventh
. grade of the common schools. Mr. Poindexter and famil.y worship in
the Central Christian church at Anderson. He was formerly affiliated
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and in polities is a Pro-
gressive Democrat.
Owen Huffman. Farming, with all its branches, has been consid-
ered a good line of business since the beginning of the world, but within
the last quarter of a century it has been developed in a remarkable degree
and at this time offers exceptional field for the man of energy, perse-
ARCHIE C. ANDERSON
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 435
verance and ability. One of the excellent representatives of this modern
progressive class of young farmers in Madison county is Owen Huffman,
of Stony Ci-eek township, who has spent all his life in this county, and
as the fruit of his own industry and good management has acquired an
excellent homestead.
He was born in Stony Creek township, January 26, 1875, a son of
Jasper and Celistia (Teeters) Huffman, both of whom have been long
residents of this township. The third in a family of six children he was
reared on the home farm in Stony Creek, and attained his education in
one of the district schools of that yieinity. He completed his education
when he was about sixteen years of age, and then took up the active
work of farming on the home place where he remained until he was
twenty-one years of age.
On October 11, 1895, he married Miss Sarah Caster, a daughter
of Marion and Sarah (McDonald) Caster. She attained her education
in the common schools. After his marriage Mr. Huffman rented land
from his father for three years, and then bought the farm where he now
lives, a place of seventj^-nine and a half acres. He and his capable wife
as his assistant directed all their energies to the improvement of this
estate, and by clearing and draining, by planting of trees and by careful
management in every direction have made it a splendid home and its
fields have been responsive in profitable crops each year. Mr. and Mrs.
Huffman are the parents of one child, Edith, who was born March 20,
1895, and i^ a graduate of the common schools and Lapel high school.
Mr. Huffman is affiliated with Lapel Lodge No. 386, Knights of Pythias,
and with Lapel Lodge No. 326, A. F. & A. M. In politics he has been
Republican, but in the campaign of 1912 supported the Progressive
ticket.
Archie C. Anderson. In farming and stock raising and the general
business activities of Fall Creek township, Mr. Anderson is one of the
leaders, and has occupied a prominent place for many years. He is a
native of Madison county, has spent practically all his life here, and by
persistent and honorable industry has been successful far beyond the
average. •
Archie Clifton Anderson was bom in Fall Creek township, Madison
county, September 7, 1855, a son of John A. and Elda (Hiatt) Ander-
son. The founder of the family in Indiana was grandfather Wright
Anderson, who came to this state in 1828 and located in Fayette county.
John A. Anderson was bom in ilaryland, November 10, 1826, and was
about two years of age when the family .moved to Indiana, where he
grew up and was married and soon after came to Madison county, locat-
ing in PaU Creek. The father has been a resident of this township and
county for nearly sixty years, and now makes his home retired at a
good old age with his son Archie. There were two children in the fam-
ily and the other was named Rollin, who died at the age of twenty-
three. When Archie C. Anderson was six months of age, his mother
died and he was then taken to the home of his grandparents, Mr. and
Mrs. Jordan Hiatt, in Fayette county. He was reared on a farm there
and obtained his education in the district schools, with one year in the
high school. When only a boy he made up his mind that farming was
his favorite vocation and though in later years his interests have in-
creased and brought him into banking and other affairs, he has alwajrs
retained his affection for the farm and is iirst and last a farmer. Mr.
436 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Anderson was married December 28, 1876, to Miss Caroline J. Heacock,
of Wayne county, Indiana, where she was bom May 7, 1856, a daughter
of Daniel Heacock. She was reared on a farm in Wayne comity, and
educated in the district and high schools. Her death occurred No-
vember 23, 1908.
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Anderson located east of Pendle-
ton, where they lived for seven years and ia the spring of 1884 took up
their residence on the homestead they now occupy, this having been
their home and endeared to them by many associations of family life
for nearly thirty years. Their two children are named as follows:
Stella, a graduate of the Pendleton High School and with one year in
Earlh&m College, is now the wife of Professor E. D. Allen of Pendle-
ton. Their children are Esther Allen and John Allen. Chester H.
is a graduate of the Pendleton high school, and engaged in farming.
He married Lulu Clark, and they are the parents of two children, Mary
Elizabeth and Paul Clark. The Anderson family are communicants of
the Friends church.
Mr. Anderson in business circles in Pendleton is best known as the
president of the Pendleton Trust Company of which he was one of the
organizers. The officers of this institution are A. C. Anderson, presi-
dent ; 6. R. Mingle, vice president ; R. F. Thomas, secretary and treas-
urer, while the other directors are E. E. Brattain, Dr. L. H. Thomas,
and E. C. Reid. The Pendleton Trust Company was organized in 1909
with a capital stock of $25,000.00. Among his other interests Mr.
Anderson owns four hundred and eight acres of land in Fall Creek
township and is regarded as one of the largest farmers and stock rais-
ers in Southwestern Madison county. In politics he is Independent
and he is a member of the Grange.
Thomas E. Day. Some thirty years ago Thomas E. Day took his
bride into Stony Creek township while the wilderness conditions still
prevailed and with a strong arm and courageous heart began the work
of clearing out a home for himself and family. By dint of hard l?bor
and thrifty management he has prospered, until today he is not only one
of the most substantial, but also one of the most influential men in his
section of the county.
Thomas E. Day is a native of the state of North Carolina where he
was born April 15, 1858, and from an early age had to make his own
way in the world. His parents were Alva and Sarah (Harris) Day,
neither of the parents ever leaving North Carolina which was the state
of their birth and their life and death. There were eight children in the
family and Thomas E. was the sixth, and one of his sisters also lived in
Indiana. The father died when Thomas E. was eight years of age, and
he had little chance after that to get an education. He remained with
an uncle for some years, and learned more of hard physical work than
the lessons which are given in schools and in books. In company with
an aunt he arrived in Madison county, November 22, 1874, and soon
afterward began his career on his own account.
Thirty-two years ago Mr. Day married Miss Sarah J. Shaul. and he
then went into the woods and with his axe cleared up a tract of one
hundred and ten acres, which has been the basis of his home. The sis
living children in the family are named as follows: William H., who is
at home; Vado P., wife of Hugh Minor; Luther B.. who is married and
a resident in Stony Creek township ; James E., who is married and
h
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 437
lives in Stony Creek township; Iva M., who is unmarried and still in
the home circle, and Lorenza, a student in the high school at Lapel. Mr.
Day and family are members of the Christian church, and in politics he
is a Republican, without any participation in party affairs or without
ever having held any public office. Mr. Day is the owner of one hundred
and eleven acres of land in Stony Creek township and has a prosperous
and well improved farm.
John L. Givens. A resident of IMadison county for sixty-tive years,
Mr. Givens represents the progressive rural citizenship of Stony Creek
township, where he has a fine farm of sixty-two acres, with excellent im-
provements and a comfortable home for himself and family.
John L. Givens was born in Green township, Madison county, No-
vember 30, 1848, a son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Shawl) Givens. An-
drew Givens, the father was born in the state of Michigan, came to
Indiana and was married in IMadison county, his wife being a native of
this state. He continued to reside in Madison county until his death
in 1854. lie and his wife were the parents of three children, the other
two being N. D. Givens, of Indianapolis; and Julius Givens, who is
connected with the street railway system in St. Louis.
Mr. John L. Givens was reared in Green township until he reached
liis majoritj^ and as a boj' attended the district school near his home.
Green township, while he was growing up, still presented almost an
expanse of wilderness, and the residents were still engaged in the hard
labor of clearing and grubbing and planting the first crops in the hard
won fields. That was the training ground for his early life. He was
married in Green township to Amanda Heshberger, anditheir bappy
married life continued until 1909 when Mrs. Givens died. She was
reared in Green and Stony Creek townships and received her education
in the public schools. The four sons bom to their marriage are all living
in 1913, namely : Horace, who is married and a resident of Stony Creek
township ; Elmer, who graduated from the common schools and is mar-
ried and lives in Hamilton county; "Willard. who graduated from the
Lapel high school and in 1913 from the University of Indiana, and is
now a principal of a graded .school in Noblesville, this state; Asa, who
finished the course in the common schools, and at the present time is in
Indianapolis. Mr. Givens and family are members of the Progressive
Dunkard Church. In politics he has always been a regular supporter
of the Republican party up to the campaign of 1912 in which he voted
the Progressive ticket.
Verling STA>rLET. A man who is well known to the citizens of his
community by reason of his former connection with work of a journal-
istic nature^ Verling Stanley has for a long period been prominently
identified with the farming and stock raising interests of Stony Creek
towiship, where he is the owner of a well-cultivated farm of 260 acres.
Mr. Stanley was born in Hamilton county, Indiana, June 16, 1857, and
is a son of Isaac and Hannah (Nuby) Stanley.
Isaac Stanley was bom in Clinton county, Ohio, and was about six-
teen years of age when brought to Hamilton county, Indiana, by his
parents. Here he engaged in agricultural pursuits and was reasonably
successful in his operations, and at the time of his death, in 1898, his
community lost one of its best citizens. His wife, a native of North
Carolina, was about three years of age when brought to Hamilton county,
438 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and here her death occurred in 1911. They were members of the Friends'
Church, in the faith of which they were married' and were the parents of
five children, as follows: Verling; ilelissa, who became the wife of Prof.
Fellows, was a graduate of the high school and a former teacher ; Edgar
A., who is engaged in farming in Hamilton county, Indiana; Melvina,
residing at Anderson, Indiana, the widow of Junius Knight; and Lydia,
the wife of H. W. Ramsey, who is engaged in farming in Boone county,
Indiana.
Verling Stanley received his primary education in the district schools
adjacent to his father's farm, and supplemented this by attendance at
the Union High school, at Westfield and by a course in the Indianapolis
Business College. Succeeding this, he accepted a position on the New-
castle (Indiana) Mercury, where he learned the printer's trade, and
later, in company with Prof. Fellows, bought the Grant County Repub-
lican, of Jlarion. One year later they sold this publication and Mr.
Stanley went to Ohio, where he was editor and publisher of the New
Holland News, which he conducted for one year, then becoming inter-
ested in several other newspapers in Ohio. After a short period spent
at his trade, on a Kansas City newspaper he received a government
appointment to a position in the government printing office at Washing-
ton, D. C, in which he remained four years. In 1895 Mr. Stanley came
to Lapel and purchased the Ne:vs, of which he was editor and publisher
for four years, and at the end of that period retired from newspaper life
to engage in farming and stockraising. He is now the owner of a hand-
some tract of 260 acres, all in a high state of cultivation, which has
been rendered more valuable by the erection of a set of buildings of
substantial character and architectural beauty. Mr. Stanley has proved
as good a farmer as lie was newspaper man as evidenced by the gratify-
ing success which has rewarded his eiJorts.
On August 14, 1898, Mr. Stanley was married to Mrs. Isabella V.
(McClintock) Ward, who was born in Jackson township, Madison
county. She was educated in the district schools of her native town-
ship, and was there married, November 4, 1888, to Walker Ward, who is
now deceased. One child was born to this union, Grace L., born August
22, 1889, who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Stanley have had one
daughter: Verlina ^l., born May 24, 1900, who is now in the seventh
grade in the public school at Lapel.
Mr. and ^Irs. Stanley are members of the Methodist Episcopal
church at Lapel, in the work of which she has been very popular, num-
bering many friends in the wide acquaintance they have formed since
locating in their present home. In political matters, Mr. Stanley be-
came an adherent of Progressive principles in 1912, but he has never
sought public ofifice, being content to confine his activities to his farm,
of which he has every reason to be proud. He is a member of the I. 0.
0. F., the K. of P. and the Red Men.
Oliver E. McClintock.. The roster of agriculturists of Madison
county who have participated prominently in the movements which have
served to bring about the great progress and advancement of this sec-
tion of the State during the past half a century would be incomplete
indeed did it not contain the name of Oliver E. McClintock, of Stony
Creek township, who, although now a resident of the town of Lapel, has
for many years been interested in farming and stock raising in Stony
Creek and Jackson townships, where he is the owner of large properties.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 439
Mr. McClintock belon<?s to that class of enterprisixig, energetic men to
whom are due the progress and improvement of the West, while as a
public servant he has and is contributing materially to the welfare of
his fellow men. Mr. McClintock was born on a farm in Jackson town-
ship, .Madison county, Indiana, June 21, 1858, and is a son of Daniel
and Elizabeth (Bristol) McClintock.
The McClintock family is one of the old and honored ones of this
section, and was founded in Indiana by Alexander McClintock, who
came as a pioneer from North Carolina. A son of this progenitor, George
McClintock. settled in x\nderson when there were but three houses in
that place, his journey thence having been made by wagon, and subse-
quently he located on a tract of land along the river in Jackson town-
ship, where he passed the remainder of his life. Daniel McClintock. son
of George, an(!P father of our subject, was bom in Jackson township,
May 19, 1832, and died May 4, 1910. He was reared on his father's farm,
received his education in the district schools and continued to reside on
the homestead until within eight years of his death, when he came to
Stony Creek township and located in Lapel. For forty years he was a
faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and his politics
were those of the Republican party, whose candidates and principles he
supported stanchly. A successful farmer, Mr. McClintock developed an
excellent property, and he was also a large breeder, of pure-bred Short
Horn cattle, which he served to introduce in Jackson township. He and
his wife were the parents of three children: George K. ; Oliver E. ;
and Belle V., a graduate of the Jackson public schools, and now the wife
of Verling Stanley, former editor of the Lapel News, a sketch of whose
career will be found on another page of this work.
Oliver E. IMcClintock was reared on his father's farm -and after a
district school education and a term at high school, secured a teacher's
license. He continued to farm, however, and remained on his father's
property until he was twenty-one years of age. at which time he embarked
in operations on his own account. Mr. McClintock was married Novem-
ber 28, 1886, to Miss Leora "Wise, who was reared in Jackson township
and educated in the common schools, and to this union there were bom
five children : Hershel G., a graduate of the Lapel High school, who
was a public school teacher for one year and is now a Rural Free De-
livery mail carrier out of Lapel; Daniel, also a graduate of the Lapel
High school, and now a teacher in the public schools of that place;
Walter, a high school graduate, who is assisting his father in the opera-
tion of his farms; Cecil, who graduated from the high school, and like
his brother is engaged as an educator ; and Myrtle, who is still a student
at Lapel. The family has long been connected with the Methodist
Episcopal Church, in which Mr. McClintock serves as steward. His fra-
ternal connection is with Lapel Lodge No. 386, Knights of Pythias, and
the local lodges of the Improved Order of Red Men and the Independent
Order o^ Odd Fellows. Politically a Republican, he was elected a mem-
ber of the board of trustees of Stony Creek township, and is now serving
his fifth year as incumbent of that office, where he has given the utmost
satisfaction.
In 1903 Mr. McClintock transferred his home from the country to
Lapel, in order that his children might receive better educational oppor-
tunities. He is the owner of 500 acres of land, of which 200 acres are
located in Stony Creek township and 300 in Jackson township, and all
are under a high state of cultivation. General farming has occupied
440 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the greater part of his attention, but he has also met with a gratifying
success in the breeding of standard Short Horn cattle and Arabian
horses, and few men of the county are more widely known as stock buyers
and dealers, ilr. McClintock has been interested in other business ven-
tures, and is at present a stockholder in the Lapel State Bank. In the
conduct of his commercial interests and in the discharge of his official
duties his reputation is unassailable and among the citizens of Lapel he
is held in the highest regard.
John B. Cragen. Everj' branch of commercial and industrial activ-
ity is represented at Lapel, for this locality is not only a flourishing
community, but furnishes a large contiguous territory that looks to it
as a base of supply. For this reason many progressive men who seek
the best locality for the prosecution of their lines of endeavor have
settled here, confident in the future of the place and in their ability to
make their mark upon its advancement. The men who succeed here, as
elsewhere, in forging their way to the front ranks have to possess more
than the average ability, as well as sound judgment and unswerving
integrity of purpose. One of the men who has brought himself to an
enviable position in his line of work, and at the same time secured and
maintained a reputation for good citizenship among his associates, is
John B. Cragen, notary public and dealer in real estate, loans and insur-
ance, who has been resident of Lapel since 1900. He was liorn in Lou-
don county, Virginia, March 15, 1834, and is a son of Samuel and Harriet
(Trundle) Cragen.
Mr. Cragen received his early education in a little log schoolhouse in
his native state, and was a lad of fifteen years when he accompanied his
parents to Illinois, there attending school for four months. In 1855
he went to Iowa, where he entered 160 acres of land which, after culti-
vating, he sold at a good figure and returned to the Prairie State. There
he embarked in the threshing machine business, and while so engaged
was injured in the fall of 1861, this accident incapacitating him for ser-
vice during the Civil war. His next venture was as an educator and
for four years he taught school in Dewitt county," Illinois, at the end of
that period going to St. Louis, Missouri, where he was engaged in the
insurance business for twelve years, and while there he was married to
Mrs. Dubois, whd lived but a short time. In 1879 Mr. Cragen came to
Fishersburg. Indiana, and for several years was in the timber business,
and was there married in 1883 to Mrs. Charlotte Fisher. His advent
in Lapel occurred in 1900, when he embarked in the insurance and real
estate bvisiness, and in this line he has continued to the present time,
steadily building up a large and remunerative trade and firmly establish-
ing himself in public confidence and esteem.
Mr. Cragen is a Democrat in his political views, but takes but little
interest in public affairs outside those that affect his immediate com-
munity and its people. . He may always be depended upon, ho.wever, to
assist in forwarding movements calculated to secure good govermnent,
and belongs to that class of citizens who believe that they can best for-
ward their own interests by advancing those of their section. Although
he belongs to no particular religious denomination, he has been liberal
in his support of religious work, and is known as a man who having suc-
ceeded himself is every ready to assist others to succeed. Mr. Cragen is
one of the venerable citizens of Stony Creek township, being the last
survivor of those who lived here when he first came to Fishersburg, but,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 441
although ill his seventy-ninth year, still walks the streets with firm tread
in the daily discharge of the duties of his business, a striking example of
the virile and energetic old age that follows a life of sobriety and
probity.
Hon. Charles W. Biddle. Elected in 1910 and now representing
Madison county in the state legislature, Hon. Charles W. Biddle is one
of the ablest members of the agricultural community of this county and
state. He was born and reared in the township where he makes his
home, has been steadily progressive both in business and in his civic
ideas, and has the complete confidence of his fellow citizens, in any public
capacity.
^Ir. Biddle resides in Adams township, in a very attractive and
valuable farm homestead on section eighteen, six miles southeast of
Anderson on the Columbus Pike. He was born in Adams township,
November 23, 1862, and his entire life ha-s been spent within the limits
of Madison county. His parents were James M. and Esther (Slaughter)
Biddle. The paternal grandfather, Caleb Biddle, a native of North
Carolina, brought his family from that state to Madison county in 1829,
when James Biddle was about twelve years old. By reference to the
general historv of this county, published in this work, it will be seen
that the year 1829 was one of the pioneer years in the settlement and
development of Madison county.
The Biddle family have therefore been factors and useful citizens
in the history of this county from its earliest years to the present time,
and each ge-eration has i)rodufed useful and honored citizens. James
^I. Biddle, the father, who was born in North Carolina in 1817, received
part of his early education in North Carolina, and also attended country
schools in Adams township of ^ladison county, from the age of twelve
years. He Lived on the old Biddle homestead, which his father had
entered from the government until his marriage. His wife, Esther
Slaughter, was bom in Pennsylvania in 1829, and her family also were
among the early settlers of Madison county. After their marriage they
lived on the Biddle farm in Adams township of one hundred acres, and
James Biddle added to the original estate until he was the owner of two
hundred and forty acres. His life time was chiefly devoted to the im-
provement and productive cultivation of this place, and he erected good
buildings, fenced the farm, and made it a very valuable property. He
lived there until his death in 1892, his wife dying about five years later
in 1897. She was the mother of the, following children: George M-,
living in Wayne county ; Mary Alice, wife of Charles Mitchel ; Margaret,
wife of Harvey M. Davis : Jenisha, wife of S. R. Manzy ; John, a farmer
of Adams township ; Charles W.. the subject of this sketch ; and Ida, wife
of Miles Elsbury. who resides on the old Biddle homestead. All the
children except George reside in Adams township.
Charles W. Biddle was reared on a farm, when a boy attended the
district schools, knows and is known by practically all the old genera-
tions of the county, and continued working on the home farm until he
was twenty-one years of age. He then began as an independent agri-
Ctiltnrist, but continued to live and work a part of the homest^-ad until
he was twenty-seven years old. At that date he married Miss Nellie M.
Gray, a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Gray, both of whom were well
known in Madison county. Mrs. Biddle was a talented young woman
and had taught school in Adams township two terms previous to her
442 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
marriage. After his marriage he continued on the old place for a time,
and in 1898 bought his present place in Adams township, ninety-eight
acres of choice land. There he erected a modem dwelling, a new barn
and outbuildings, and under his supervision the fields have been well
fenced, and all the place supplied with modern machinery. He raises
first-class stock, hogs, cattle and horses, and is one of the rural residents
of Madison county, ■who have made farming pay by application to the
same business principles which bring success in other vocations of life.
Mr. and Mrs. Biddle are the parents of the following children:
Ward G.. a graduate of the Pendleton high school, and now engaged in
teaching at Pendleton ; Howard J., and Jesse S., who are both in Pendle-
ton high school.
For a number of years Mr. Biddle has been one of the factors in
Democratic politics in Madison county and Adams township. After
serving in some of the minor responsibilities of civic affairs, he was
elected representative of Madison county in 1910, and again in 1912, and
has served to the present time. Among the important committees of
which he has been member were the Roads Committee, the Railroad
Committee, and the Public and Municipal Corporation Committee. Dur-
ing the session of 1913 Mr. Biddle was chairman of the Roads Comimit-
tee, before which was brought many important bills. At this time he
Introduced a road bill which was passed, and is known today as the Biddle
Road Law. It changed the township road system. Its great value is
that it requires all road tax above twenty dollars to be paid in cash.
This broke up the practice of railroads and other large corporations
letting out their road tax work for the entire state to contractors who in
the past have made thousands of dollars a year in working them out
at a loss to the townships and roads.
Fraternally he is well known in Masonic circles, being a member of
Ovid Lodge, No. 164, A. P. & A. M., at Columbus, and is also affiliated
with Tahoe Lodge No. 232 of the Improved Order of Red Men. His
residence, situated on Columbus Pike is attractively located and in front
of the house stands a massive native white oak, a tree that when in
full foliage is an admirable feature of the entire farm, and is often
commented upon by those who pass by. Charles W. Biddle is known as
a successful business man, an influential factor in politics, and also for
his genial social character.
Wn^soN T. Trueblood. Now living virtually retired in the attractive
village of Chesterfield, Mr. Trueblood was for many years one of the
representative merchants of his native county and is a scion of one
of the sterling and honored pione«r families of this section of the fine
old Hoosier state. His career has been marked by earnest and effective
endeavor and he has at all times maintained secure place in the confi-
dence and esteem of his fellow men, so that he is specially entitled to
specific recognition in this publication.
On the old homestead farm of his parents, in Adams township, Madi-
son county, Indiana, Mr. Trueblood was born on the 18th of December,
1841, and is a son of Wilson and Melissa (Overman) Trueblood, both of
whom were natives of North Carolina and representatives of old and
honored families of that commonwealth. Wilson Trueblood was reared
and educated in bis native state and was about thirty-five years of age
at the time when he came to Indiana and numbered himself among the
pioneers of Madison county. He purchased eighty acres of wild land,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 443
in Adams township, and there reclaimed a productive farm, to the affairs
of which he continued to devote his attention until his death. Of the
ten children the subject of this review was the youngest and he is now
the only surviving, all of the other children having been born prior to
the family immigration to Indiana.
Wilson T. Trueblood was only two years of age at the time of his
father's death and his mother subsequently contracted a second mar-
riage and having continued to maiutaiu her home in JIadison county
untU she too was summoned to the life eternal. He whose name initiates
this sketch gained his rudimentary education in the pioneer schools of
Henry county and thereafter continued his studies in the village of New
Columbus. At the age of twelve years he assumed a clerical position in
a general store at New Columbus and he learned the business in aU its
details, with the result that he eventually proved himself well fortified
for individual activities along the same line of enterprise. In 1868 he
established himself in the mercantile business in the village of Chester-
field, and here he built up a large and prosperous trade, based upon fair
and honorable dealings and upon his personal popularity in the com-
munity that has long represented his home and been the stage of his
productive activities. He retired from active business in 1911 and has
since lived virtually retired, in the enjoyment of the rewards of former
j'cars of earnest endeavor. He is the owner of valuable real estate in
his home village, including both business and residence property, and is
one of the well known and highly esteemed citizens of Madison county.
In politics Mr. Trueblood has long been a zealous supporter of the
basic principles of the Republican party and as a citizen he has been
liberal and public-spirited. He is affiliated with the local organization
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and his faqaily hold member-
ship in the Christian church.
In the year 1871 was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Trueblood to
Miss Sarah E. Snyder and they have two children. Dr. Charles True-
blood, the elder of the two, Ls one of the representative physicians and
surgeons of Colorado, and is engaged in the practice of his profession at
Monte Vista, that state. He wedded Miss Lulu Free and they have no
children ; Ferdinand Trufeblood, the youngest son, is in business in Ches-
terfield, where he is engaged in a general store. He married Miss Inez
Smith and they have three children — Ronald, Harry and Charles.
Walter Isanogel. Special interest attaches to the career of this
well known and highly esteemed citizen of Chesterfield, for he is a native
of Madison county, a representative of one of its sterling pioneer families
and has been prominently concerned with civic and business activities
in the county which has ever been his home.
Mr. Isanogel was born on a farm in Union township, Madison county,
Indiana, on the 3rd of January, 1863, and is a son of Jacob and Mary
(Goheen) Isanogel, whose names are prominently identified with the
annals of Madison county, where they took up their abode in the pioneer
epoch of the county's history. They became the parents of eleven chil-
dren— John T., Solomon, William, and Isaac, who are deceased; Samuel
E., who is a resident of Union township; Walter, who is the immediate
subject of this review; Otto D., and Sarah, who are deceased, the latter
having been the wife of John Coburn; Caroline, who is the wife of
Stephen Fosnot, deceased; Estaline, deceased; and Mary B., who main-
tains her home at Chesterfield. Jacob Isanogel, who accompanied his
444 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
parents on their removal from Preble county, Ohio, to iladisou county,
Indiana, in the pioneer days, was a sou of Solomon and Elizabeth (Su-
man) Isanogel. His father, who was of stanch German lineage, was
born in Frederick county, Maryland, and came to Madison county,
Indiana, in the '50s. Under the administration of President Van Buren
he here entered claim to eighty acres of government land, in Union town-
ship, and he reclaimed the same to effective cultivation. He became one
of the substantial pioneer farmers of this favored section of the state
and his old homestead is stiU owned by representatives of the imme-
diate family, whose name has been most worthily linked with the civic
and industrial development and upbuilding of the county. Jacob
Isanogel was long numbered among the representative agriculturists
and stock growers of Madison county, commanded inviolable place in
popular confidence and esteem, and made his life count for good in its
every relation. Both he and his wife continued to reside on the old
homestead farm, one and one-half miles northeast of Chesterfield, until
they were summoned to eternal rest.
He whose names initiates this review was reared to the sturdy disci-
pline of the home farm and gained his preliminary education in the dis-
trict schools. Later he availed himself of the advantages of the public
schools of Chesterfield, and his ambition was further shown by his
becoming a student in the University of Indiana, at Bloomfield, and
where he admirably fortified himself for the pedagogic profession, of
which he was an able and popular representative for a number of years,
as a successful teacher in the schools of his native county. He was prin-
cipal of the Green Branch school and later of the school on Seventh street
in the village of Chesterfield, where he held also the position of principal
for a period of ten years. In Chesterfield he served as assistant post-
master under the regime of Mr. Krettenbarger, and thereafter he had
charge of the public schools of this village, his assumption of this im-
portant position having been made in 1897. Thereafter he served for
some time as deputy in the office of the county treasurer, after which
he was again employed as an effective teacher in the district schools of
the county. He engaged in the general merchandise business at Chester-
field, where his personal popularity and the effective service given
brought to him a large and representative patronage. He retired from
this line of enterprise in 1910 and has since given his attention princi-
pally to the management of his real estate and other property interests.
Mr. Isanogel is a man of broad and well fortified views concerning
matters of public polity and has shown a lively interest in all that con-
cerns the welfare of his native county and state. Liberal and progres-
sive in his civic attitude, he has been a stalwart supporter of the cause
of the Democratic party, and both he and his wife are zealous members
of the Christian church in their home village, where he is afiiliated with
the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and its
adjunct organization, the Daughters of Kebekah, as well as with the
Improved Order of Red Men and the Modern Woodmen of America.
On the 4th of July, 1889, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Isanogel
to Miss Minnie Bronnenberg, daughter of Ransom Bronnenberg, con-
cerning whom specific mention is made on other pages of this volume.
Mr. and Mrs. Isanogel have four children — Velma, Helen. Robert E.,
and Olga E. Velma married Edgar Click of Anderson township, a
farmer; Helen is teaching at Ingalls, she attended the University of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 445
Indiana. The two younger children are attending the public schools of
their home village.
Seneca Chamber.-^. .Madison county is esseutiallj' au agricultural
coinniunity, and is UDted no less for the excellence of its farms than for
lilt publii- spiiit and enterprise of the agriculturists who till them. One
of tiiese successful farmers, a resident of the county for more than half
a century, and still engaged in active pursuits, is Seneca Chambers, th(
ov\ ner of sixty-three acres of excellent land located on the Alexandria
pike, in Richland township. Mr. Chambers was born on the farm which
he now occupies, February 2'1, 1861, and is a son of John H. and Julia
A. (Drybread) Chambers. The family is an old and honored one of this
section, having been founded in Madison county by the grandfather of
Mr. Chambers. There were five children in the family of Mr. Chamber's
parents: William, who is deceased ; Sarah, who is the wife of Mr. Eshel-
man ; Joseph, deceased; Seneca, and Clarissa, who is deceased. Both
Mr. and Mrs. Chambers were members of the Christian church.
The childhood home of Seneca Chambers was a little log house, which
had been erected by his father some years prior to his birth, and he was
reared amid pioneer surroundings. As was expected of all Indiana
farmers' sons of his day, he began to assist his father and brothers in
clearing the home place as soon as he was able to do his share, his educa-
tional advantages being secured in the short winter terms in the district
schools of Richland township and College Corners. Reared thus to agri-
cultural pursuits, it was but natural that he should adopt farming as a
vocation upon reaching years of maturity, and his subsequent success in
his calling is ample evidence that he made no mistake in his choice. His
operations, commenced in a modest manner, have assumed large propoi
tions, and he now occupies a substantial and firmly-established place
among the agriculturists of his community, where he is known as a skilled
and intelligent farmer and excellent judge of cattle. Mr.- Chambers has
used modern methods exclusively, taking advantage of the various dis-
coveries and inventions which have made farming assume a position on a
par with the professions, and showing good business judgment in dis-
posing of his products and cattle, which have always brought top-notch
prices in the markets. His comfortable home, situated on Anderson
Route No. 1, is surrounded by buildings of handsome architectural design
and substantial character, and the whole appearance of the property
denotes the presence of prosperity, thrift and able management.
Mr. Chambers was married to Miss Callie Burke, now deceased, who
was a daughter of George and Elizabeth (Mahoney) Burke, old and
prominent settlers of Madison county who are now deceased. Three
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Chambers, namely: Clara, who is
deceased ; Ward, who married Millie Scott and resides in Richland
township : and Earl, who married Ethel Scott, and has two children —
^fildred and Calvin.
Mr. Chambers attained distinction as a member of the famous Federal
jury chosen on the noted Los Angeles Times dynamite case, which opened
October 1, 1912, before Federal Judge A. B. Anderson, in Indianapolis,
when forty-six men. most of them union labor officials and agents, were
placed on trial on the charge of complicity in more than 100 dynamite
explosions, including that which destroyed the Los Angeles Times build-
ing. Of these two pleaded guilty, the charges against three were dis-
missed at the opening of the trial, and thirty-eight were given varions
446 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sentences in the Federal prison, although some of the latter have since
been released on bail. This has been Mr. Chambers' only public service,
as he has not sought preferment iu public or political life, preferring
to devote his whole attention to his home and his farm. He has been a
life-long member of the Christian church, and has been liberal in his
support of its movements.
CuBRAN ("Jack") Beall. Modern agriculture holds out many in-
ducements to the industrious, progressive worker, especially when he
has been trained to farming from boyhood. It is natural for such a man
to capably perform the duties pertaining to this class of work, and, hav-
ing had wide experience, he is able to recognize and appreciate the
various advantages offered by new methods. Again, having passed
through instructive experiences, he is not to be easily deceived with
relation to the true value of proposed innovations, nor is he apt to
decline advantageous propositions. The demands of his neighborhood
are knovra to him, and failure one season is not a discouraging factor, for
the experienced agriculturist is aware than one lean year generally is
followed by two prosperous ones, and that in the time of small crops is
granted the opportunity to prepare for banner productions. For these
and numerous other reasons, the lifetime farmer enjoys a marked ad-
vantage in the race for agricultural supremacy. Experienced in farming
operations since his boyhood, Curran ("Jack") Beall has become one
of the leading agriculturists of Richland township, where he is the
owner of 160 acres of excellent land, in addition to a valuable property
in North Anderson. He was born on the farm which he now occupies,
March 21, 1860, and is a son of Curran and Jennie (Gunder) Beall.
Curran Beall, the elder, was born on a farm near Centerville, Wayne
county, Indiana, and was educated in his native locality, coming to Madi-
son county about 1846 after attaining his majority and here settling in
Richland township, where he spent the remaining active years of his
life in successful farming operations. He was married here, and he
and his wife became the parents of six sons, of whom two survive : Cur-
ran ; and Archibald, who married Laura Coburn and has seven children
— James, Fred, Arthur, Rosa, Garland, Brutus and Lilian.
"Jack" Beall was reared on the old homestead where he was born
and received his early education in the schoolhouse which was located
on the old Tappan farm in this locality, this training being supple-
mented by attendance at the Mount Hope school in Anderson township.
During his school period he assisted his father in the work of the home
place, and until twenty-two years of age remained under the parental
roof, at that time removing to a property of eighty acres some miles dis-
tant in Lafayette township. After renting this land for a short period,
he returned and rented a like property belonging to his father, but not
long thereafter went to North Anderson, where he carried on teaming.
Returning to agricultural pursuits, he operated his mother-in-law's
farm for several years, subsequently located on another rented property,
and at the time of his father's retirement from active life again returned
to the homestead, of which he was made manager. Here he has intro-
duced various innovations and made numerous improvements, both as
to buildings and equipment. Trained in the old school of practicability,
he has combined with this the ideas and methods of modern days, with
the result that he has achieved material success and a firmly established
position among the agricultural leaders of his community.
MICHAEL STRIKER
HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY 447
Jlr. Beall was married August 20, 1882, to ]\liss Mary Belle Kinna-
iiiaii, daughter of Henry and Frenie (Huntzinger) Kinniiuan. Mr.
Kiiinaiuan came to Madison county from Missouri and settled in
Lafayette township where he was successfully engaged in farming up to
the time of his death. He had three children; Mary Belle, who married
.Mr. Beall; Rose M., who married Mr. Parsons; and Gertrude, now Mrs.
Carpenter. Mr. and Mrs. Beall have two children : William Curran,
who married Cora Vermillion, and has one child, Nondes; and Ora Madi-
son, who married Olive Pence, and has one child, Durwood. Mr. and
Mrs. Beall are consistent members of the Christian church, in the work
of which they have shown a commendable interest. The family enjoys
the privileges of membership in the local lodges of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows and the Improved Order of Red Men, in both of
which he has numerous friends. He is a Democrat in politics and has
never held any public office.
Michael Striker. When the Striker family first located in Ander-
son much of what is now within the city limits was open country
covered with hazel brush or wood, and Eight Street, now one of the
busiest thoroughfares of the county seat, wound in and about the trees
which still cumbered its course. Various members of the family have
been well known in this city and county and Mr. Michael Striker was
for a long number of years successful as a butcher and wholesale and
retail dealer in meats, but is now Living retired.
Michael Striker was born in Cineinnati, Ohio, on the fifteenth of
October, 1850. His father was Adam Striker. Both he and his wife
were natives of Baden, Germany, and one of the brothers of Adam
came to America, but his settlement and his career from the time he
landed have not been kno^vn to this branch of the family. Adam Striker
was reared in Germany, attended school steadily during boyhood and
then began an apprenticeship after the thorough German fashion to
the stonema»son's trade. His apprenticeship completed he married and
with his bride set sail for America. The ship on which they took
passage battled for three months with the waves before it landed them
in New York City. From there they came to Cincinnati, where he was
emploj'ed at various kinds of work for a time. When the Pan Handle
Railroad, now one of the principal lines of the Pennsylvania System,
was being constructed to Madison county, Adam Striker took employ-
ment with the building contractor and assisted in felling the trees and
clearing the right of way, and later helped to construct the road beds.
In the woods not far from the present site of the Pennsylvania Railroad
Station in Anderson, he built a log shanty, which served as the first
home of the Striker family in Anderson, and it was there that Michael
Striker first lived and became acquainted with this vicinity. When the
railroad had been built through this part of Indiana, Adam Striker re-
mained in Anderson, and followed his trade during the seasons when
there was work, and also eked out his income at various other kinds of
work. He was an industrious man, was much esteemed by his fellow
citizens, and continued a resident of Anderson until his death at the
age of seventy-seven years. He had married in Germany Catherine
Dittus. who died at the age of sixty-nine. They reared nine children,
named Michael, John, Adam, Henry, Jacob, Robert, Charles, Ben.
Frank and Catherine.
JMichael Striker was only a child when the family came to Ander-
448 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
son, and though the pioneer period in the strict sense had passed IVIad-
ison county was still sparsely populated, and as already stated a greater
part of what is now the site of the city of Anderson was in the tim-
ber and brush. Wild game was still quite plentiful in the surrounding
soil and occasionally deer and wolves were heard and seen in the vicin-
ity. Michael Striker was reared to habits of industry and thrift, and
was a mere boy when he began contributing the results of his labor
to the support of the family. "When he was a boy, he was apprenticed
to the butcher's trade with Joseph Shawhan, a well known local butcher
of that time. During the firet year he got no pay with the exception
of an occasional piece of meat which he carried home to the family.
During the second year his pay was three dollars a week, and at the
age of eighteen he was a capable butcher, and during the winter was
employed at the local packing house in dressing hogs, and being an
expert in that line he earned five dollars a day, all of which he gave
to his father. At the age of twenty, Mr. Striker was ready to start in
business for himself. His capital was veiy limited, and he rented a
shop and a slaughter house. For some time he had no horse nor vehicle
to assist in the business. He bought a beeve from John Q. Gastin at
the Omaha Switch, and a hog from another party, and having butchered
those animals began business. He was successful from the start, and
soon afterwards formed a partnership with Maurice Wallace, making
the firm of Striker & Wallace. This continued for about three years
before being dissolved, after which Mr. Striker continued alone and
did a flourishing business up to 1910. In that year he turned over his
large stock and interests to his son, and having acquired a handsome
competency retired from business.
Mr. Striker in 1875 on the twenty-seventh of October married Miss
Samantha Talmadge, who was born in Rush county, a daughter of
William John and Priscilla (Highfield) Talmadge, a pioneer family of
Rush county. Mr. and Mrs. Striker's children are Lafe, Clifford and
Nellie. The son Lafe married Florence Ziramer, and has four children
named Catherine, Lois, Mary J., and Martha.
Weems Beonnenberg. Agricultural methods have changed very
materially during the past several generations, and now that progression
among the farmers has become a vital national issue there is every reason
to suppose that still further advance will be made along all lines. Inter-
urban service, the telephone and the automobile, with the consequent
bettering of the roads on account of the increased popularity of the last-
Jiamed, have brought the farmers much closer together and have placed
them in close teuch with the centers of activity, and the man today who
devotes himself to the cultivation of the soil finds himself more inde-
pendent than any other worker in the world. Among the progressive,
public-spirited citizens of Richland to%vnship is found Weems Bronnen-
berg, the owner of 123 acres of fine land located on the Daleville road, a
property that has been accumulated through years of persistent and well-
directed effort. Mr. Bronnenberg was born on the old Bronnenberg
homestead in Richland township, Madison county, Indiana, April 8,
1860, and is a son of Michael and Francone (Forkner) Bronnenberg,
and a brother of Isaac B. Bronnenberg, a sketch of whose career appears
in another part of this volume.
Weems Bronnenberg received his education in the public school at
College Corners, and was reared on the old homestead, where he remained
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 449
until iWL'iity-tliree years of age. Al tliat rime he left the parental roof
and embarked upon a career of his own, locating on an eighty-acre tract
of land on the Daleville road, in Richland township. An industrious,
persevering workniau, thoroughly trained in agricultural methods, he
has made a distinet success of his ventures, and as time has passed has
addid to his property by purchase, now having 1^3 acres of land under
a high state of cultivation. This has been improved by handsome build-
ings and modern equipment and machinery, and is considered one of
the finest properties of its size in the township, its every detail giving
evidence of the skill, thrift and good management of its owner. In addi-
tion to general farming, Mr. Bronnenberg engages in stock raising, and
his cattle are of high grade, demanding excellent prices in the local
markets.
Mr. Bronnenberg was united in marriage with Miss Susan M. Cham-
bers, daughter of George and Rebecca (Walters) Chambers, old resi-
dents of Madison county who are now both deceased. To Mr.' and Mrs.
Bronnenberg there have been bom seven children : Pearl ; Bessie, who
is tile wife of "Walter Imil, of Richland township; George, who married
Bertha Imil. also of this township; Chester; Claude-, John and Ethel.
The children have all been given good educational advantages and
Claude has attended one term in the Anderson High School. The family
home is located on Anderson Rural Route No. 4.
Mr. and Mrs. Bronnenberg are valued members of the Christian
church, and have always taken an active part in its work and have
numerous friends in its congregation. Mr. Bronnenberg is Republican
in his political views, but votes independently and, while not a politician
or seeker for public preferment, he has not been indifferent to the duties
of good citizenship, and at all times has given his earnest support to
able men and beneficial measures.
William Buti.f.r Bronnenberg. Success has amply attended the
efforts of William Butler Bronnenberg, who has devoted himself with
diligence and energy to the farming business all his life. Few men in
this community have surpassed or e(iualed him in his accomplishments in
the field of agriculture, and he is representative of the. best and most
progressive class of farming men in the county and state today. Begin-
ning with little or nothing, Mr. Bronnenberg is today the owner of some-
thing like 250 acres of the most fertile land in the county, which yields
him richly and repays him goodly measure of prosperity for every shred
of energy expended upon it.
Born on August 25, 1853, on the farm of his parents in Union town-
ship, William Butler Bronnenberg is the son of Henry and Mariah
(Forkner) Bronnenberg, whose sketch appears elsewhere. As a boy at
home, he attended the district schools of Union township, finishing his
training in the Chesterfield schools. His father was a farmer, and the
boy was early trained in the business for which he was destined. In
young manhood he married and established a home of his own, Catherine
Diltz becoming his bride. Two children were born to them, — Horace
and Esther, both of whom are occupied with farming interests. The
wife and mother died in young life, and in 1884 Mr. Bronnenberg- mar-
ried a second time, choosing Sallie l^utler, of English descent, who by a
previous marriage to William Clanger had one child, — Emerson. The
latter is married to Hazel Hancock, and has two sons, — Harold and
Ralph. Sallie Butler Bronnenberg is the daughter of Jacob and Rachael
450 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
(Porter) Butler, who were natives of southern Ohio, and who never left
that state. The father of Jacob Butler was a native son of Germany, as
were also the parents of his wife, Rachael Porter, and all were people of
the most sterling worth, well esteemed wherever they were known, and
valuable additions to the communities .wherein they located. To the
second marriage of William Butler Bronnenberg one son was born, —
Cecil Bronnenberg, now attending school at Anderson, ilr. Bronnen-
berg is actively engaged in farming. He is a Democrat in his political
belief, active and prominent in local polities, and fraternally has mem-
bership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a member of
the Spiritualists' Association of Chesterfield.
Emmor Williams. Among the highly respected citizens of Madison
county who have returned to agricultural pursuits after mauy years
spent in other lines of endeavor, Emmor Williams, of Adams township,
is a representative example. He has always been an industrious, ener-
getic workman, making his own way in the world by well directed efforts,
and has fairly earned the respect and esteem in which he is universally
held. Mr. Williams was born on a farm in Fall Creek township, Madison
county, Indiana, June 21, 1848, and is a son of Samuel F. and Arie A.
(Rice) Williams.
Henry Williams, the grandfather of Emmor Williams, spent his
entire life in Williamsburg, New York, which was named in his honor.
There was born his son, Samuel F. Williams, who was reared in the
Empire state, from whence he came to Heni-y county, Indiana, in 1829,
and located near New Eden. He was married in Henry county, and
came to Madison county in 1842, and after some preparation was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1858. He continued to practice law throughout the
remainder of his career, served as justice of the peace of Adams town-
ship for twelve years, and died at New Columbus, Indiana, one of the
well known and substantial men of his community. He and his wife
were the parents of nine children, of whom Emmor is the only survivor.
Emmor Williams received his education in the district schools and as
a young man learned the trade of stationery engineer, an occupation
which he followed for many years. When twenty-four years of age he
removed to Pennsylvania, and subsequently went to Kansas, but event-
ually returned to Anderson, Indiana, where he was engaged at his voca-
tion at excellent wages, being an expert workman. In March, 1910, he
returned to agricultural pursuits, in which he has been engaged to the
present time. He carries on general farming and stock raising, and has
been uniformly successful in his operations, being known as a good
business man and a practical farmer.
On September 21, 1871, Mr. W^illiams was united in marriage with
Mrs. Mary L. Myers, of Berlin, Penns.ylvania, who was educated in the
schools of Pennsylvania and the normal school, and for some years prior
to her marriage was engaged in teaching. Three children have been born
of this union : Annie H., who became the wife of E. E, Coffelt and died
on the 31st of October, 1894; Martha, who died in infancy; and Mary C,
a graduate of the common schools, who is now the wife of A. H. Kirk-
land, 'of Anderson, Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Williams are consistent mem-
bers of the Christian church, in the work of which both have been active.
Fraternally he belongs to the Masonic order, Ovid Lodge, No. 164, A. P.
& A. M., of which he is Master, and Pendleton Chapter, No. 51, R. A. M. ;
to Anderson Lodge, No. 746, I. 0. O. F.. and to Anderson Lodge, No.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 451
464, K. of P. In political matter^he is a Republican. He has always
been a willing supporter of movements promoted with the idea of ad-
vanoing the welfare of his community or its people, and has ever been
a friend of education, morality and good citizenship. He has a wide
acquaintance in Adams township, where his numerous friends testify
to his general popularity.
Edward E. Ltst. The architectural beauty of the city of Anderson,
Indiana, has been brought about by a group of men of ability and artistic
training who have possessed the public spirit necessary to cause them to
labor faithfully and assiduously in transforming an ungainly, half-
forined municipality into a business and residence center of which its
citizens may well be proud. Years of experience and a wealth of ideas
have been brought into this work, and the services of a number of the
most able contractors in the state have been enlisted. Prominent among
them is Edward E. Lyst, of the well-known contracting firm of Daniels,
Lyst & Douglas, who has lived in this city all of his life, and who, during
the past decade, has risen to a high place in his chosen vocation. ^Ir.
Lvst was born in Anderson, Indiana, October 10, 1870, and is a son of
Thomas J. and Ellen ( Smith 1 Lyst.
Thomas J. Lyst was born in Butler county, Ohio, in 1833, and there
passed his youth, receiving a common school education and early en-
gaging in general contracting work. At the outbreak of the Civil war,
he enlisted for service in the Union army as a member of Company M,
Seventy-fifth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and continued to
serve with that organization for three and one-half years, participating
in numerous hard-fought battles and taking part in what is known as
"Sherman's March to the Sea." Receiving his honorable discharge
with a record for gallantry and faithful service, he returned to his con-
tracting operations, and became one of the leading contractors in various
kinds of street work and paving, and continued to follow this same line
of endeavor until his death in 1900. His widow still survives him and
makes her home in the city of Anderson.
Edward E. Lyst acquired his education in the public and high schools
of Anderson, and on leaving school received his introduction to the
contracting business as an employe of his father, continuing with him in
cement and concrete paving work until the older man's death. He then
remained alone until 1904, when he .i'^ined the firm of Daniels & Lyst
and five years later Mr. 0. W. Douglas became connected, making the
firm of Daniels, Lyst & Douglas, one of the largest concerns of its kind
in the state. The business has en.ioyed a gratifying growth, and carries
on extensive operations in street work, paving, concrete construction
of all kinds, not only in Anderson, but in all parts of the United States,
and during the busy season a small army of men are employed. It has
been the policy of the firm from the start to purchase only the best of
materials from the most reliable of firms and factories, thus assuring
their customers of the finest materials, while the.v themselves furnish the
best of work that can be done. To this method of doing business may
be given the credit for the success the firm en.ioys, and the high reputa-
tion it maintains among the contractors of this State. Among his as.so-
ciates Mr. Lyst is known as a capable, energetic and thoroughly quali-
fied man. whose wide and varied experience makes him a valuable asset
to the firm in matters of importance. He is an enthusiast in his work,
and has the power of enthusing others. He has been an investor in much
452 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
city realt}', and owns a modern residence at Xo. 916 West Seventh street,
together with other valuable iiroperty in the city.
In 1905 Mr. Lyst was united in marriage with iliss Josephine Banks,
of Anderson, Indiana, daughter of John Banks, who was at one time a
well known business man of Richmond, Indiana. Mr. Lyst has interested
himself in fraternal work to the extent of securing membership in Ander-
son Lodge of Odd Fellows and Lodge No. 2U9, Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks, as well as the ^Modern Woodmen of America and
other organizations, but while he has always treasured the privileges of
membership, he has never held office. He has never aspired to po.sition
in the political field, although he supports Republican candidates and
principles.
David R. Carlton. Xaturalh- a man's success in life is measured Ijy
his prestige in business, political or social circles, and when he tigures
prominentl.y in all it may be reasonably a.ssumed that he is possessed of
more than the average ability. Among the men of Elwood, Indiana, who
have risen to places of prominence in business life and have also attained
eminence in the political arena, stands David R. Carlton, county
recorder of JIadison county, and one of this section's most popular and
capable officials. Mr. Carlton was born in Lafayette township. Madi.son
county, Indiana, September 24, 1877, and is a son of William James and
Anna (Nading) Carlton.
Richard Carlton, the paternal gi-andfather of David R. Carlton, was
a native of Ireland, born in County Tyrone, who came to the United
States in his twenty-second year and located in Madison county. Indi.ma,
where he and his wife, who bore the maiden name of Elizabeth Ferguson
and was also a native of Ireland, spent the remainder of their lives.
William James Carlton was born in Madison count}', in October, 1849,
and passed his Ixiyhood on his father's farm, securing a liberal common
school education. He early adopted the calling of cai-penter, subse-
(juently becoming a prosperous contractor, principally devoting himself
to work on public highways and public work, and served as assessor of
Madison county for one term. He married Miss Anna Nading, a native
of Pennsylvania, born in Lancaster county of German parentage, and
they became the parents of several children.
David R. Carlton received his education in the public and high
schools of Elwood, Indiana, and after leaving the latter became a clerk
in the boot and shoe establishment of Lane Brothers, of Elwood, where
he remained two years. He then secured a like position with the Pitts-
burgh Plate Class Company, at Elwood, a position he resigned two years
later to become record clerk for the American Plate Glass Company. On
leaving the latter concern, ^Ir. Carlton embarked in business as a sales-
man for the firm of Lewis A. Crossett, of North Abbington, Massachu-
setts, but subseqiiently returned to Elwood and became interested in
the business of W. T. Wiley & Company, general merchants and dealers
in dry goods, boots and shoes. Later he wa.s a partner in the firm of
Carlton & Collett. of Elwood. general merchants, afterward taking over
Mr. Collett 's interest and continuing in bu.siness as D. R. Carlton & Co.
up to the present time.
In 1903 ]\Ir. Carlton was married to ^liss Lenna A. Hamsher. daugh-
ter of Dr. F. M. Hamsher. a well-known dental practitioner of Lafayette,
Indiana, and to this union there have come four children: James
Hamsher, Jane Ani\. Kathleen and Wilma IMartha. ;\Ir. Carlton has
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 453
ahvavs affiliati'd with tlie DeinocrBtic luirty. and lias taken an active
part in local, county and state politics. In the fall elections of 1911 he
was his party's candidate for the office of county recorder, and was
elected to that position, taking charge of the duties of the office January
1. 1912, for a term of four years. He has proven himself a most faithful,
oapahlr and conscientious public official, and has firmly established him-
self in the confidence of his fellow-citizens. Frateraally, j\Ir. Carlton is
connected with Quincy Lodge No. 230, Free and Accepted Masons;
Elwood Chapter No. 109. Royal Arch ]\Iasons, and has attained the Scot-
tish Rite degree. For some time he has been a member of the Lodge of
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, of which he served as
exalted ruler, and has also been a member of the Grand Council. Dur-
ing his long i-csidence iji IMadison county, Mr. Carlton has formed a
wide acquanitanre. and his popularity is attested by a wide circle of
sincere friends.
Thomas ^Iorris. Perseverance, intelligence and industry combine
to form the price of success in farming in these modern days of agricul-
tural work, when the hard, unremitting toil of former years has given
way in large degree to the scientific use of modern machinery and a
comprehensive knowledge of intelligent methods of treating the soil,
I\Iadison county is the home of many skilled farmers who treat their
vocation moi'c as a profession than as a mere occupation and take a par-
donable and justifiable jiride in their accomplishments, among these
being Thomas Morris, the owner of eighty acres of fijie land located on
the Lapel load in Anderson township. The snccessful farmer of today
realizes that to forward his own interests he must advance those of his
locality — that there fan be no individual achievement without com-
munity development — and with other earnest and hard-working citizens
I\[r. ^lorris has labored to forward movements for the benefit of his
township and its people, thus fairly earning a place for himself among
those whose activities have bettered their localities.
Thomas ^lorris was born on the old Morris homestead near Anderson,
Indiana, January 22. 1851, and is a son of Isaac and Nancy C. (Hainey)
!\Iorris. The family was founded in Madison county by William Morris,
the grandfather of Thomas I\Iorris, at an early date in the historvtif this
section, he emigratiug with his wife and children from Rush county.
Isaac Morris was an agriculturist throughout his life, became a sub-
stantial man. and was influential in the eomraunitj'.in which he resided.
He and his wife were the parents of five children, of whom three grew
to maturity: Thomas : ]Maria. who became the wife of Henry Warren;
and William A., who married Hester Rogers, daughter of John Rogers,
and has one child, — Nondas.
As a lad Thomas Morris accompanied his father to Miami county,
there securing his education in the common schools during the winter
terms, while the summer months were passed in assisting his father in
the work of the home place. He embarked upon a career of his own
■when but twenty years of age, at that time locating upon a forty-acre
tract of land in Jackson township. Some years later, after his marriage,
he purchased the adjoining forty acres, in company with his father-in-
law, but about eight years later disposed of his property and bought his
present land, formerly known as the Copeland farm, but now called the
Morris farm. Mr. Morris' advancement has been by steady stages. He
has ever carried on his operations along well-defined lines and always
k
454 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
he has had his ultimate goal in view. No adventitious circumstances or
lucky chances have combined to give him success; it has been fairly
earned and is well deserved. A trip through the county would result
in finding few more highly-cultivated properties and none that would
give greater evidence of care and able management. The buildings are
in the best of repair, the land is thoroughly worked and well drained
and fenced, and the cattle sleek, well-fed and content. The whole
property breathes prosperity.
Mr. Morris was married to Miss Caroline Coan, daughter of J. W.
and Minerva (Sackston) Coan, and to this union there have been born
three children : Maud M., who is now deceased ; Jennie, who is the wife
of Oliver C. Perkins ; and Louie M., who is the wife of N. P. Johnston
and has two children, — Cecil and Effie.
Mr. and Mrs. Morris are consistent members of the Methodist church,
and are active iij its work. As a citizen, Mr. Morris stands high, but his
connection with political matters ceases when he has cast his vote in
support of Democratic candidates and principles, although he is inter-
ested in his party's success. His wide circle of friends gives evidence of
liis general popularity.
Emerson Mangke. One of the more ambitious and enterprising
young farming men of Union township may be cited in the person of
Emerson Manger, who gives his time and iionest attention to the culti-
vation of his eighty acre farm, located some two miles north of the town
of Chesterfield. His accomplishments in the years of his residence here
have been well worthy of mention, and it is not too much to expect that
the future will find him steadily advancing in prosperity and success.
Born on August 29, 1881, in Pike county, near the town of Piketon,
Ohio, Mr. Manger is the son of William and Sallie (Butler) Manger.
His father died when he was quite young, and his mother later married
William Butler Bronnenberg, mention of which is to be found in a sketch
devoted to the Bronnenbergs in another portion of this work. The
Manger family originally came from Germany, where it was long estab-
lished, and many of its representatives will be found there to the present
day.
Oiy August 5, 1905. Jlr. Manger married Hazel Hancock, concerning
whose family mention is made elsewhere in this work. Two children
have been born to them. — Harold and Ralph.
Mr. Manger is ^ Democrat, but in no sense a politician, and he is
fraternally identified by his membership in the Knights of Pythias and
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is prominent in local circles,
and is known for one of the more successful stock men of the township.
Walter Maul. A native son of Pendleton, where he has passed all
his life, Mr. Maul grew up in this community and learned a trade there,
has used his business energ;\' in extending his work and service, and is
now enjoying a yearly increasing success as a brick-mason contractor.
Walter ilaul was born in Pendleton December 24, 1871, a son of
George K. and Susan R. (Parson) Maul. The father was born at Hunts-
ville in Fall Creek township in 1847. so that the family is among the
oldest in southwestern ]\Iadison county. The father now resides at
Caney. Kansas. During the Civil war he went out irom ]\Iadison county
as a soldier and gave faithful service to tlie Union. His wife was also
born in Madison countv, and her death occurred in 1884. They were the
HISTOHY OF MADISON COUNTV 455
parents of lour children and three are living in 1913, namely: Cory,
who is employed in the iiiills at Anderson, this county; Fred, who is a
glass- worker and now resides in Kansas; and Walter.
Walter Maul was reared in Pendleton and attended the Pendleton
schools while growing up. When he was about fourteen years of age he
began learning the brick mason's trade, and since that time has been
almost entirely dependent upon his own exertions iuid enterprise for his
livi'lihood and success in the world. Since 1906 hi- has directed his ener-
gies and experience to general contracting and this business requires a
large amount of travel and he is away from home tiuring a great portion
of the building season. He now looks after the general work and does
the estimating. In June, 1892. Mr. ilaul married iliss Flora Belle
Kennedy, who was born in Tennessee, and received most of her educa-
tion in tlie .schools of Indiana. They are the parents of two children:
Hazel F., born in 1894 and residing at home, is a stenographer and
book-keeper for the Hardy Machine Company ; Paul T., born January 6,
1905. :Mr. Maul is affiliated with Pendleton Lodge, I. 0. 0. F., and with
Morning Star Lodge, K. of P. In polities he is a Republican.
John A. Smethers. A farmer and lifelong citizen of Greene town-
ship, in Madison county, John A. Smethers has lived a life of usefulness
and worthy influence in his native community, and is well deserving of
the position he holds in the minds of those who know him. He was born
here on August 20, 1867, and is the son of James W. and ilary R.
(Sehweikhardt ) Smethers.
James W. Smethers was born in this township also, and is now a resi-
dent of Ingalls. He has been twice married. His first wife died on
April 7, 1889, leaving him six children, four of whom are now living.
They are John A., of this review; Charles F., of Anderson, Indiana;
William .\.. a farmer of Greene to\\'nship ; and Warren F., who is in the
employ of the Big Four Railroad. Following the death of the mother
of these children. James W. Smethers married j'^.tilda Clark, and their
one child, Guernsey J., shares the home of his parents.
John A. Smethers was reared on the farm home in Green township,
and received such education as he was favored with in the public schools
of his native community, wliieh he attended until he was about eighteen
years old. Until 1891 he continued to work on the farm, when he
identified himself with the produce business in the employ of J. S.
Cummins, continuing' therein for five years, and then entering the gro-
cery business for a similar period in Ingalls, Indiana. He then clerked
in a hardware and general merchandise store for Randall Bros, for some
six years and in 1908 was elected a.ssesi3or of Green township. He later
bought the farm of D. R. Richard in sections 26 and 28, located in
Green township, where he has since resided.
On April 2. 1893, he married Merrilla M. Richards, who was bom
on the farm she now occupies with her husband, on August 28, 1872,
and who is the daughter of David R. Richards and his wife, Emily
Caroline (Davis) Richards, both of whom are deceased. One child haa
been born to !Mr. and Mrs. Smethers, — ^^Gldred F., born March 27, 1896.
She is a graduate of the common schools and is now a student in the
Fortville high school. The family are members of the Christian church
of Ingalls. ilr. and Mrs. Smethers are members of the Pocahontas
Order, and ^Irs. Smethers is Past Chief of that society, and has attended
the Grand Lodge of the Order in session. He is also a member of the
456 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Order of Red Men. ]Mr. Siuethers is a Republican, intelligently active in
the work of the party, and he is now serving as assessor of the township.
He carries on a general farming business, and is prominent in local
circles in the township, where he has passed his life thus far.
Benjamin H. Cook, M. D. Numbered among the most important of
the learned professions, and the one that undoubtedly has made the most
progress during the past several decades, is that of medicine, whose
devotees are called upon to continue their studies at all times and to keep
fully abreast of the times in order to observe the numerous discoveries
and advancements of their honored calling. A practicing physician
since 1885, Dr. Benjamin H. Cook has risen to a high place in his pro-
fession, and since 1903 has been located in Anderson, in which tield of
endeavor he is highly regarded both as a physician and as a citizen. He
is a native of the Hoosier State, born August 22, 1858, in Hancock county,
and is descended from Adam C. Cook, who located at Jamestown, Vir-
ginia, as early as 1621. The son of Adam C. Cook was Daniel Cook,
whose son, Joel Cook, was the grandfather of Dr. Cook. Matt F. Cook,
son of Joel Cook, and father of Dr. Cook, was bom April 1. 1821, in
Mercer county. West Virginia.
Benjamin H. Cook received his preliminary educational training in
the public and high schools of Hancock county. Indiana, following which
he entered upon a career of his own, and for a time was variously em-
ployed, accepting whatever honorable work came to hand. He event-
ually decided to become a physician and started the study of medicine
in the offices of Dr. Lundy Fussell, of ilarkleville, IMadison county,
Indiana, following which he entered the Medical College of Indiana,
and was graduated therefrom in .1885. He at once entered upon the
practice of his profession, being associated with his preceptor for a time,
hut later went to Wilkinson, Hancock county, Indiana, and remained
seventeen years at that place, building up an excellent practice. In
1903 Dr. Cook came to Anderson and here he has continued to the pres-
ent time. A close and careful student, he has been successful in building
up a large professional business and in firmly establishing himself in the
confidence of the people of his adopted place. He has the inherent
ability and sympathetic nature so necessary to the practitioner, and his
success in a number of complicated cases has gained him the respect of
his fellow-practitioners. He is interested in the work of the various
medical organizations, and is a member of the iladison County Medical
Society and the Indiana State Medical Society. Fraternally, he is a
prominent Mason, belonging to Mount jMoriah Lodge No. 77, F. & A. M. ;
Kingston Chapter No. 36, R. A. M., and Knightstown Commandery No.
9, K. T. In his political views he is a Democrat, and has served his
party as a member of the Democratic central committee.
On January 30, 1889, Dr. Cook was married to Miss Laura E.
Cooper, of Wilkinson, Hancock county, Indiana, a daughter of James
Madison Cooper. Mrs. Cook was born at Cowgill, Missouri, and came
to Indiana with her parents, in 1881. To the union of Dr. and Mrs. Cook
there have been born seven children, as follows : Theophilus Pravin,
Harvey Weir, Merle, Herschel Paul, Sarah Elma, Rachel Anna, and
James Farley. Dr. Cook is the owner of a comfortable modern residence
at No. 630 West Twelfth street, Anderson.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 457
Thomas Morris Hardy. Tlie prosperity and advancement of a
coiinnunity depend upon the social character and public spirit of its
members and in every prosperous town or country center may be
found citizens who take leadership and give their energies not alone
to their well being but to the things that make belter and fuller life
for all. Such a citizen at Pendleton has Mr. Hardy been recognized
for many years. Lieutenant Hardy was a soldier of the Civil war,
was in early life a teacher, from that became actively identified with
farming, and for the past twenty-five years has been best known as
a banker, being now president of the Pendleton Banking Company.
His success in business has been accompanied by equal public spirit in
affairs, and it was due to his generosity and energetic work tliat the
town of Pendleton now jiossesses its excellent public library, and insti-
tution which is having a large influence in the culture of the local
citizenship, and in future will continue to exert a great uplifting foi'ce
in this community.
Thomas Morris Hardy was born in Fall Creek township, Madison
county. February 4, 1840. He best represents one of the old families,
a family that became identified with this historic vicinity of Madison
county, not far from the time when the first permanent settlements
were planted, and the name has always been borne with dignity and
usefulness since it was first known tn this locality. His parents were
Neal and Elizabeth R. (Frissel) Hardy. Neal Hardy, the father, was.
born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, November, 1802, and his wife,
a native of the same vicinity, was born in 1808. Both were reared,
received their education and were married in Philadelphia, and shortly
after their marriage came west, making the .journey in a one horse
wagon until arriving in Fall Creek township, where the father entered
eighty acres of land from the government. This homestead, selected
from the midst of the great wilderness which at that time extended over
nearly all eastern Indiana, the father cleared up and gave his industry
and management to the estate throughout the rest of his life. His
death occurred in November, 1869, while his wife survived until July,
1888. The mother was a member of the Society of Friends, and the
father was an attendant of the same church, though he was very liberal
in his religious views, and contributed and supported church and benev-
olence with little regard for denomination. His particular interest in
community affairs was in educational matters, and for some ten or
twelve years he acted as township trustee of Fall Creek township acd
gave some very efficient service in administration of all local affairs,
with particular reference to the upbuilding and improvement of the
local school system. Among the citizenship in his time in Fall Creek
township he was recognized as one of the strongest men of the vicinity.
In politics he was a Republican after the formation of that party. He
was affiliated with the Odd Fellows Lodge. He and his wife were the
parents of eight children, and three are living in 1913, as follows:
Thomas Jlorris; Eliza A., widow of John R. Boston; and Sarah K.,
wife of Joseph D. Kinnard.
Thomas Morris Hardy was reared on the old homestead in Fall Creek
township, received his education in one of the early schools of this
locality and after attending the district school went to the Pendleton
Academy for six months. Then in 1862, at the age of twenty-two, he
enlisted in Company A of the Sixteenth Indiana Infantry, and was
with the army during its great campaign down the Mississippi Valley.
458 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
He was in the Vieksburg Campaigu and was twice wounded. At his
enlistment he went in as a private and for meritorious service was pro-
moted to lieutenant after the Battle of Arkansas Post. He was mus-
tered out at the conclusion of three years' military duty with this rank.
After his return as a veteran soldier he spent three years in Illinois as
a teacher and farmer, and then returned to the old homestead where
he continued as a teacher and farmer for some eight or ten years. In
1890 Mr. Hardy, in association with E. P. Rogers, became coimected
with the Pendleton Banking Company, and has since acquired a half
interest and has been president of the company since 1905. This is
one of the strongest private banks of Madison county, and the company
enjoys high standing throughout all the territory tributary to Pen-
dleton.
Lieutenant Hardy was married September 28, 1865, to Margaret
J. Wilson, who was born in Madison county, November, 1839. ilrs.
Hardy received her education in the public schools of this county,
and was a valuable companion to her husband and greatly beloved in
all social circles. After nearly forty-four years of happy married life
she passed away on August 22, 1909. Mr. and Mrs. Hardy had no
children of their own, but they reared five under the protection and
influence of their own roof, giving them good educational advantages
and the best of influences for their preparations to meet the larger
duties and responsibilities of life. One of their children now keeps
house for Mr. Hardy.
Lieutenant Hardy is a member of the Friends church, is affiliated with
the Grand Army Post No. 230 and the Loyal Legion of Indiana. He
has for many years been a supporter of the Republican party, but in
the last campaign of 1912 gave his vote for the new Progressive party.
He donated the lot on which the Pendleton Public Library now stands,
and this donation was at the time absolutely essential to the success
of the library enterprise, since the necessary endowment could not have
been secured without this generosity on his part. He has served a.s
president of the Library board since its organization in 1909 and has
devoted much time to the success of this local institution.
John Meckel. With the pre-conceived ability to design and execute
plans for buildings, possessed of marked artistic talent and that hard-
headed practicality which puts ideas aiid ideals to the test of materiality,
and the capacity for co-operation with others, John Meckel, architect of
Anderson, has accomplished a work in the planning of structures that
is of such a character as to leave its impress on the city for many years
to come. With a mind fertile in means, resources and, expedients, he has
fully mastered the multitudinous details of his complex and many-sided
profession, and has risen to deserved prominence solely through merit
and undeviatiug application. Mr. Meckel was bom in the city of Cin-
cinnati, Ohio, June 25, 1844, and is a son of Jacob and Katherine
(Eckhart) Meckel, natives of Germany.
Jacob Meckel learned the trade of shoemaker in his youth and worked
thereat in the Fatherland until grown, emigrating to the United States
when twenty-one years of age and locating in Cincinnati, Ohio, where
he was married to Katherine Eckhart, who had come to this country as a
lass of sixteen years. For some years Jacob Meckel was engaged iu
custom shoemaking in Cincinnati, but in 1848 removed with his family
to Henry county, Indiana, where he purchased a farm of eighty acres.
HIS.TORY OF MADISON COUNTY 459
and devoted his energies to fanning and stock raising. His operations
were fairly successful, and at the time of his death, in 1890, he was con-
sidered one of the substantial moii of his community. Mrs. Meckel
passed away in 1881, having been the mother of five sons and two daugh-
ters, of whom one son and one daughter are deceased.
John Meckel was reared on the home farm, and was sent to the dis-
trict schools during the winter terms until his eighteenth year, in the
meantime assisting his father during the summers on the farm. He then
learned the trade of carpenter and followed that occupation for several
years, during which time he took up the study of architecture, his knowl-
edge being acquired at Cambridge City, Indiana, at which place he had
been a contractor for a time. In 1885 he removed from Cambridge City
1o Anderson, and this has since been his field of endeavor. He ha8
drawn and completed the plans for many of the fine dwellings, business
houses, schools and churches of this city, as well as the Anderson Opera
House, but has not confined his efi'orts to this community, for in the
country and a number of neighboring towns and villages are found many
examples of his skill and talent. His work evidences the pride he has
taken in his adopted locality, and his conscientious devotion to the best
ethics and ideals of his profession has given him a firmly established
position in the ranks -of leading Indiana architects.
Mr. Jleckel was married in 1869 to ^Miss Edna A. Barnard, of
Henry county, who died in 1895, leaving the following children: Frank
B., who is a resident of Anderson ; Grace, who is the wife of John W.
Bernard, of Neosho, Missouri; Nellie B., who died in 1895; and Maude,
a stenograpliei' and bookkeeper at present residing at Neosho, Missouri.
Mr. Meckel was married in 1901. to Miss Ella St. John. The family
residence is located at No. 215 "West Sixth street, comer of Brown and
Sixth.
Mr. Meckel has enjoyed the privileges of membership in fraternal
orders, belonging to Cambridge Lodge No. 17, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, and No. 9, Knights of Pythias. He is a Democrat in his
political views, and while a resident of Cambridge City served capably
as a member of the city council for a period of four years.
George W. Bickford. ]\Ir. Bickford has been a resident of Anderson
for more than twenty years and during the greater part of that time
^as been one of the faithful and efficient men in the postal service. He
:omes from good New England stock, and was born in the village of
Rochester. New Hampshire. June 11, 1856, a son of John H. and Mary
Jenks Bickford, both natives of New Hampshire. The father was a car-
penter by trade and worked in that line the greater part of his life, and
did well by his family.
George W. Bickford grew up in New England, attained his primary
education at Great Falls, now Summersworth. and after getting a com-
mon and high school education entered the Massachusetts College of
Pharmacy at the age of fifteen. He then clerked in a drug store for
seven years, in Boston. Massachusetts. From Boston he moved out to
Kansas, and was a resident and business man at Phillipsburg until 1891.
In that year he returned to Indiana, and located at Anderson. In 1896
Mr. Bickford became a government employe as a letter carrier, and for
seventeen years has quietly performed a service which has brought him
both esteem and recognition as one of the important factors in his local
work of the city. He has filled his office under different postmasters, and
460 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
is now one of the oldest men in this service in this city. He is a Demo-
crat in his political affiliations.
On April 6, 1881, Mr. Bickford was married in Kansas to Miss
Katherine Hanlon, who was born in Connecticut, a daughter of John
Hanlon, of Philadelphia. Their union has been blessed with the follow-
ing children : Walter N. ; Laura M. ; Leo and Roy.
In Masonic circles, Mr. Bickford is one of the best known members in
Anderson, and has his affiliations with Mount Moriah Lodge No. 57,
F. & A. M. ; Anderson Chapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; Anderson Council No.
69, R. & F. M. ; Anderson Commandery No. 32, K. T. For thirteen years
he served as secretary of Mount Moriah Lodge. He is a member of the
Methodist church. The Bickford home is a pleasant residence at 120
W. Fifth street.
Hon. George Nichol. Still hale and hearty at the age of eighty-
three and a familiar figure on the streets of Anderson and a daily visitor
at the store whose business was founded and built up by him, Hon.
George Nichol has a record as a soldier, business man, public spirited
citizen and official, which places him among the most venerable and
useful men of Madison county. Nearly sixty years of his life time has
been spent within the limits of this county, and he is one of the few
still living whose memory and intimate knowledge of business and local
affairs goes back into the decade of the fifties. Anderson as a city of
trade and industry has been fortunate in its possession of a fine body
of citizenship, including men of ability and integrity to direct the large
enterprises which have given this city distinction, among the larger
cities of Indiana, and Hon. George Nichol during his long and varied
career has been one of the most prominent of business builders and
upholders of local prosperity.
Born in Butler county, Ohio, January 14, 1830, George Nichol was
a son of Thomas and Jane (Marshall) Nichol, and comes of an old and
prominent American family. The family history is authentically traced
back to the time of Edward the Confessor of England, during whose
reign a member of the family came over from Normandy, and during
subsequent generations the name, individual records, and the Nichol
coat of arms are found in English annals. The founder of the American
family was Francis Nichol, who was born in Enniskillen, Ireland, in
1737, and came to America, with his brother William, who afterwards
served as a captain in the American army. They settled in Cumberland
county, Pennsylvania, and in June, 1775, Francis Nichol enlisted in the
patriot army. He was promoted to the rank of second lieutenant, and
was taken prisoner at Quebec, December 31, 1775. Released in August,
1776, he later rose to the rank of brigadier general of the American
forces. At the close of the war he was elected first United States marshal
of eastern Pennsylvania, and died at Pottstown, February 13, 1812.
General Francis Nichol was the great-grandfather of Hon. George
Nichol of Anderson. Grandfather Thomas Nichol, who was born near
Belfast, Ireland, after coming to the United States settled on land on
the Ohio side of the River Ohio, near Wheeling, West Virginia, but after-
ward moved to Butler county, Ohio, where he entered one hundred and
sixty acres of land, and cleared off the woods with his ax. His children
were : Joseph, a soldier in the war of 1812 ; John ; Thomas ; George ;
Wells; Sarah A., who married Jesse Andrew; Mary, who married Mr.
Marshall, and Martha, who married a Mr. Royce.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 461
Tlie father of Hon.. George Niehol, Thomas Nichol, was born about
180;] ill lielinoiit county, Ohio, and was about three years old wheu the
family moved to Butler county. He received his education in the
pioneer schools, and in Hutler county married Jane ^larshall, daughter
of (I'ilbert and Mary (Taylor) Marshall. After the marriage the young
couple settled on land in the woods, and eventually became owners of a
tine farm of two hundred and forty acres, where the father spent the
remainder of his life. He was a Jacksonian Democrat in polities. The
children of Thomas and Jane were: William JI., born in 1828; George;
]\Iary ; Joseph \V. ; Martha; Gilbert; Jennie; Frances; Catherine; John
and Robert.
While a boy on the home farm in Butler county, George Nichol had
only limited opportunities for ac(|uiring an education, although they
Were prob;d)ly the best to be obtained at that time and in that country.
His early amliition was for a good education, and he secured it during
a number of terms in the district schools, and one year at Farmers Col-
lege, near Cincinnati. In 1852, when about twenty-two years of age,
Mr. Nichol went to Keokuk, Iowa, and became clerk in a hardware store.
From there in March, 1854, he came to Anderson, which was destined to
be the city of his permanent residence. In Anderson he established
himself in business on his own account as a hardware merchant, his
associate being Amos J. King. From that year, nearly sixtj' years'
distant to the present time, the name of Nichol has been familiarly
associated ^\^th the hardware trade in Anderson. Mr. Nichol retired
a number of years ago, but his two sons, Thomas J. and Greorge E., still
carry on the enterprise, founded and made prosperous by their honored
father. Thomas J. is president of the Niehol Hardware Company, and
the younger son is also in the business.
Mr. Nichol had been in Anderson but a few years vvhen the Civil war
cast its black shadow across the country and made the usual routine of
existence aiul business an impossibility. He was one of the young men
who went out from Anderson in September, 1861, as a private in the
Forty-seventh Indiana Volunteers, and was soon afterwards appointed
quartermaster of his regiment. At the end of his term in 1864 he
returned home, after having participated in all the severe campaigns
through which the Forty-seventh passed. He held the rank of first
lieutenant in the army. His service as a soldier by no means ended
Mr. Nichol's participation in public affairs, and his has always been the
part of the disinterested and unselfish worker for the general welfare.
^Ir. Nichol was one of the founders of the Republican party in this
section of the country, and voted for its first presidential candidate,
John C. Fremont, for Abraham Lincoln, and for every other Republican
candidate to the present time. For his success in business and for his
eminent public spirit, he has been lionored with positions of trust in his
community. He was a member of the first city council elected in Ander-
son. In 1870, he was elected on the Republican ticket to the office of
county auditor, being the first Republican elected in the county to that
important office. That was one of the notable campaigns, made so by
his successful participation. His opponent was the late Neal C.
McCullough, a man of acknowledged integrity and ability, and long
prominent as a leader in public affairs. The county at that time was
safely Democratic by six hundred majority, and the fact that Mr. Nichol
overcame this margin was one of the highest compliments ever accorded
to an individual in the political history of Madison county. He served
462 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
as auditor from 1871 to 1875. In IGOi, he was elected a member of the
sixty-fourth General Assembly of Indiana, and in 1907 Governor
Hanley appointed him a member of the board of trustees for the Indiana
Epileptic Village at Newcastle, and his service in that capacity for four
years until 1911 was his last important participation in large public
affairs. For a number of years Mr. Nichol was chairman of the Repub-
lican Central Committee of iladison county. His name has been asso-
ciated with nearly every enterprise having for its object the promotion
of Anderson's interest, and the development of the county. He was
chosen president of the Anderson Board of Trade at the time of its
organization, and served as long as the body was in existence. Though
a man of liberal views in all matters, Mr. Nichol has long been a con-
sistent member of the First Presbj'terian Church of Anderson. He was
a charter member of Major May Post of the Grand Army of the Republic
at Anderson, and up to 1888 served as its quartermaster.
On December 4, 1855, in Anderson, llr. Nichol married Harriet
Robinson, who was born in Ripley county, Indiana, in 1835, a daughter
of Josephus and Matilda Robinson, and a sister of the late Col. M. S.
Robinson. Her father was bom in Tennessee, educated himself in the
law, and was a lawyer at Versailles and later at Greensburg, in Decatur
county, Indiana. The two children born to Mr. and ]\Irs. Nichol were
Thomas J., born September 15, 1856, and George E., bom October 4,
1861. Thomas J. is now president of the Nichol Hardware Company,
while George E. is vice president of the Citizens Bank of Anderson.
Both sons are married and established in homes of their own at Ander-
son. The mother of these sons died May 25, 1896. On September 27,
1899, ;Mr. Nichol married Mrs. Mary Eglin, widow of Captain John P.
Eglin, formerly of the Forty-seventh Indiana Regiment. Her death
occurred September 24, 1907.
Charles J. Rozelle. Eminent in Anderson business atfairs, and
also in the political life of the city, Mr. Rozelle has for a number of years
successfully followed the contracting and building trade, and his prac-
tical endeavors have their results in many of the permanent structures
to be seen in this city and vicinity.
Charles J. Rozelle was born in the city of Anderson, November 16,
1873, and belongs to one of the old families of Indiana. The Rozelles
are of French descent, the first ancestors having come from France and
settled at an early date in the colony of Virginia. The paternal grand-
father was William Rozelle. who was born in Virginia, moved from the
Old Dominion at an early day, and was a settler of Indiana at a time
not far removed from the beginning of pioneer development in this
state. The maternal grandfather was John Tilford, who was also
a native of Virginia. The parents of Mr. Rozelle were Miles M.
Rozelle and Elvira T. (Tilford) Rozelle, the father having been born
was also a native of Virginia. The parents of Mr. Rozelle were ililes
in Rush county, Indiana, in 1838, and the mother a native of Pennsyl-
vania, from which state she came to Indiana during her earlj' ^rlhood.
The father in young manhood took up the trade of tanner, and as a tan-
ner and manufacturer of leather he was well known and followed the
business for a number of years. In 1893 he retired from the business,
which he had conducted at Anderson for manv years. His wife died
in 1907.
Charles J. Rozelle grew up in Anderson and while a boy attended the
gvajnmar and high schools of the city. When he left school it was to
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 463
enter his father's tanner\\ where He assisted in the work for a time, but
did not chose to follow that as a regular vocation, and soon engaged in
the mercantile business. lie continued that work until he sold out.
From merchant he became carpenter and builder, and having special
skill in his trade and good business ability, he has since enjoyed much
prosperity and has been employed in fulfilling many contracts for
residences, school houses, churches and business houses in Anderson
and elsewhere.
In 1900 Sir. Rozelle married Miss Zimmer, a daughter of Michael
Zimmer, an old resident of Madison county. She died in 1903, and was
the mother of the following named children: Charles B. and Helen E.
Fraternally Mr. Rozelle is well known in Masonic circles, being a mem-
ber of Fellowship Lodge, No. 681, A. F. & A. M. ; Anderson Chapter,
No. 52, R. A. M: Anderson Commandei-y, No. 69, K. T., and Murat
Temple of the Mystic Shrine, and has also taken thirty-two degrees in
the Scottish Rite. In politics a Republican, he served three years as a
member of the city council, and was also chosen and acted as a member
of the board of public works, from which he resigned at the end of one
year.
Herbert D. Wkbb. Among the energetic and successful citizens of
Anderson, Indiana, none is better known that Herbert D. Webb, secre-
tary a!id treasurer of one of the important manufacturing plants of this
city. Mr. Webb has always taken an active part in any movement which
had as its aim the advancement of Anderson or of this section of the
state, and he has played a prominent part in the commercial history of
the city. Mr. Webb has been a hard worker throughout his life and his
success is not the result of good fortune but of industry and a natural
business ability, heightened by years of experience.
Herbert D. Webb was born in the city of Minneapolis, Minnesota, on
the 4th of June. 1860. He is the son of J. Russell Webb and Harriet C.
(Camp) Webb. His father was a native of New York and his mother
was born in Vermont. J. Russell Webb was a well known man,
having the peculiar honor of originating the "Word Method of Teach-
ing." He was a teacher for a number of years, as well as the author of
a number of text books, which were used in the schools of the United
States in the early days. He was a well known educator and his methods
were very generally approved by the educators of the country. He died
in September, 1888.
Herbert D. Webb received his education in the state of Michigan,
attending the schools of Jackson and Benton Harbor, and being a grad-
uate of the high school in the latter place. After leaving school he first
went to work on a farm, this place being not far from Benton Harbor,
Michigan. After spending some time in this occupation he next came
to Anderson, Indiana, where he found employment in some of the fac-
tories, working in various ones at different times. This was in 1889,
and he worked his way steadily, upward, gaining knowledge and experi-
ence. In 1900 he went into the plumbing and heating business in Ander-
son and continued in this business until 1908, when he originated and
established the present business.
He is at present secretary and treasurer of the Webb, Baxter Com-
pany, manufacturers of vacuum cleaning machinery and machine knives.
The company was incorporated in 1908 and Noah Baxter was made
president. The plant is forty by one hundred and forty feet in size and
464 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
fifteen people are employed in manufacturing its products, which are
shipped to the different parts of the United States, by order.
Mr. Webb is a member of the Knights of Pythias and of the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows. He has an attractive home at 605
Hendricks street. Mr. Webb was married in 1890 to Miss Louise Sher-
wood, a daughter of Isaac Sherwood and Celia (Adams) Sherwood.
Ira Williams. Now retired from business and looking after his real
estate business in Anderson, Mr. Williams is a citizen of Madison county,
who started out as a farmer, found himself against a losing game, then
managed to turn, ventured into a new field in a very modest way and
by furnishing exceptional value and service in return for his customer's
money, built up a local business which was highly profitable and from
which he was able to retire a few years ago, and spend his later years
in comfort. To his wife he also credits a large share of the success gained
in his business.
Ira Williams, who belongs to an old and honored family of Madisoij
county, was born on a farm in Richland township, December 12, 1855.
His father was Morgan T. Williams, who was born in Surrey county.
North Carolina, and the grandfather was Jesse Williams, who so far as
known was a life long resident of North Carolina. Grandfather Williams
owned and occupied a farm about three miles from Long Gap in Surrey
county, and that was his home when death came to him. He reared 14
children. Morgan T. Williams was reared and educated in his native
state, and when a young man came to Indiana, and here met and marrie'd
Marindah Maynard. After their marriage they located on the farm
belonging to her father, and continued as substantial farming people
until the death of Morgan T. Williams on June 27, 1863, at the age of
twenty years.
The maternal ancestors of Mr. Williams introduces some of the oldest
families of Madison county. His mother was born in Ricliland township
of Madison county, about April 19, 1839. Her father was James May-
nard, and it is supposed that Kentucky was his liirthplace. Her great-
grandfather, William Maynard was a shoemaker by trade, and probably
spent all his life in North Carolina. Moses Maynard, the grandfather
of Mrs. Morgan T. Williams, was born near Ilillsboro, North Carolina,
September 23, 1763, was reared and married in that state, and from
there went to Kentucky, living near the Big Sandy River for some years.
From there he came into Indiana, and was one of the very first settlers
of Madison county. On Killbuck Creek, he took up a homestead direct
from the government, built a log cabin in the wilderness, and continued
to live and perform his share of hard work and good citizenship in this
county until his death. Moses Maynard died at the home of his son
Barnabas in Monroe township, June 15, 1874, at the remarkable age of
one hundred and eleven years. He was the oldest man in the county and
probably in the state. It is indeed doubtful if any American has a sim-
ilar record. He cast a vote for George. Washington for president, and
voted at every presidential election in the long line of quadriennial
elections from the first down to and including that of 1872, when Grant
was elected for the second term. Moses Maynard married Sarah Green-
street, and they reared eleven children.
James Maynard, the maternal grandfather of Ira Williams, was
reared and married in Kentucky and came to Indiana, accompanied by
his wife and children, about 1832. Their journey was made across
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 465
country witli wagons and teams, and buying a tract of land in Richland
township, eight miles from the courthouse in Anderson, James Maynard
built a log house, and at once took up the task of clearing a place for his
crops among the trees. For twenty years after his settlement there were
no railroads in the county, and he and other settlers drew most of their
wheat and other products over the road north to Wabash on the canal.
Before his death, which occurred June 11, 1861, he had cleared up a
great part of his land, and had made a subsrtantial homestead. James
Maynard married Sarah Fuller, who was born in Kentucky in 1813.
Her father, John Henry Fuller, came either from Kentucky or Virginia,
and was one of the very early settlers of Richland township in Madison
county, where he also did the part of the pioneer, cleared up a farm and
spent his last days there. I\Irs. James IMaynard died January 12, 1870.
The children reared in her family were : John Henry, Patsy, Richard,
Vicey, Charity, Marindah, Isaiah and Jacob. Mrs. Morgan T. Williams
was left a widow with two children, and afterwards married and now
lives at an advanced age in Monroe township. The sister of Ira Williams
was named Sarah.
Ira Williams was about seven years old when his father died. After
that he found a home with his uncle, Jacob Maynard, on the Maynard
homestead, and while growing to manhood there attended the neighbor-
hood schools. He was very young when he took his share in the labor
of the farm, and lived at home until his marriage. He then built a house
on the Maynard homestead and lived there two years. After that he
was on the Fenimore farm for four years. On twenty-five acres of land
which he bought near Oilman he spent five years, and the two last years
all his crops failed, and that was the reason he abandoned farming, and
sought a livelihood in Anderson. Mr. Williams is one of the men who
have particular reason to remember the development of .urban trans-
portation in Anderson. When he first moved to the county seat he was
employed as a driver for the cld-time horse cars that ran up and down
Main street, and which are pictured on other pages of this history.
When electricity was substituted as a power instead of horses, he was one
of the first to handle a motor, and performed that work for two years.
On account of ill health he resigned, and after one year opened a con-
fectionery store. That was the foundation or beginning of what proved
a very .successful career. He had a very modest establishment at first,
but with the assistance of his wife he soon afterwards added a restau-
rant, and because they furnished wholesome food and good service they
were rewarded with a constantly growing patronage, and in time devel-
oped their enterprise to a grocery store, which continued to thrive until
1904. when Mr. Williams sold out and since then has taken life more
easily. In the meantime he had accumulated a considerable amount of
local real estate, and has given his care and attention to this since leaving
the grocery business. He is now owner of nine different pieces of real
estate in the city of Anderson.
On August 7, 1878, Mr. Williams married Mary L. Etchison, who
was horn in Pipe Creek township of Madison county. Her father, Joshua
Etchison, was born in North Carolina, was reared in that state and mar-
ried there, and brought his wife and two children to Indiana. Their
journey was made overland, with wagons and teams, and the family
first found a home in Pipe Creek township. Buying land there, he went
through the hardships and the labors of the pioneer settlers, and con- '
tinued a farmer until his death. March ^0. 1862, at the age of forty years.
466 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Joshua Etehison married Elizabeth Casteel. Illinois is thought to have
been her birthplace, and she was a daughter of Caleb and Rebecca Cas-
teel. The mother of Mrs. Williams was a true pioneer lady, and among
her accomplishments she learned to card, spin and weave, and being left
a widow with seven children, earned money with the wheel and loom to
support her family. For a number of years she did all her cooking by
the old-fashioned fire place. Mrs. Williams now has as a souvenir of
her mother's work a beautitul home-spun and woven bedspread, and
has also a pair of half mitts, which her mother knitted. The flax from
which they are made was grown, scutched and spun in the Etehison home
in Madison county. The mother of Mrs. Williams died at the age of
seventy-seven years. In the Williams home is another memento of times
long passed, and that is a silk hat in good condition, which the father
of Mr. Williams bought in 1855. Silk hats were much more commonly
worn in those years before the war than at any time since.
John E. Davis. For many years one of the well known business men
of Anderson, Mr. Davis has spent nearly sixty years of his life time in
Madison county, and has been very familiar by experience with the de-
velopment of the country east of Anderson from pioneer times to the
present. During the many years of his residence in the county, he has
prospered, has enjoyed many of the good things of life, and has well
provided for his family, and is still active and vigorous in business affairs
at the county seat.
John E. Davis was born on a farm two and a half miles from Con-
nersville in Fayette county, Indiana, December 24, 1849, and is a
descendant of one of the very first settlers of Fayette county. His father
was Thomas Jefferson Davis who was born in South Carolina. March
31, 1810. The grandfather was Paul Davis, Iw^m in North Carolina,
August 6, 1769, and a son of John and Jane Davis. About the close
of the Revolutionary war, the Davis family moved from North Carolina,
to the southern part of South Carolina, and lived there ujitil about 1812
or 1813. They then came north, crossed the Ohio river, and lived near
Harrison, Ohio, until 18] 4. Their next move brought them to the terri-
tory of Indiana, and they settled in the wilderness a short distance
west of the present site of Connersville in Fayette county. Two years
passed before Indiana was made a state, and they were practically no
settlements north of the White River. Fayette county itself was an
almost unbroken wilderness, and Madison county had not yet been
occupied by a single permanent white resident. Grandfather Paul
Davis bought a tract of land, three miles west of Connersville, gave his
labor to the clearing of a large portion of that place, and that he was a
man of more than ordinary circumstances and enterprise is indicated by
the fact that he erected a brick house, one of the first in that county. He
lived there until after his second marriage, and then moved to Henry
county awhile, but returned and died in the home of his son in Fayette
county, in 1858. Paul Davis first married Margaret Alexander, who was
the mother of his children. She was born January 31, 1767. and be-
longed to the noted Alexander family of the Carolinas, one of whom
attached his signature to the Mecklenburg declaration of independence,
some years before the declaration of 1776. Paul Davis and wife reared
nine children, named: George, James, Wilburn, Robert, John, Dulcina,
Paul, Thomas J. and Jasper.
Thomas Jefferson Davis, the father of John E. was about four years
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 467
old when the family moved to Indiana, and he was reared amid the
pioneer surroundings of Fayette county. That county continued to
be his home until 1845, when he moved to Madison county and bought a
tract of land in the timber, Jive miles west of the courthouse, a country
now a smiling landscape of Ijeautiful farms, but at that time little more
than a wilderness, although the railroad, known now as the Big Four,
already traversed that section of the county. In the midst of the woods
he built a substantial house of hewed logs, and it was in that mansion
that the Davis family of the present generation had their first home. While
he was in the midst of the heavy work of clearing the timber otf his land,
death came to him in 1855. Thomas Jefferson Davis married Maria
Ball, who was born in Fayette county, Indiana, a daughter of Doctor
Bunnell and Rachael (Denman) Ball. Her grandfather, Aaron Ball,
owned and operated a ferry across the Miami river in Ohio, and was
drowned by operating his ferry over that stream. Doctor Bunnell Ball
(the first name was not a title of profession) came to Indiana, and also
was one of the pioneers of Fayette county. He bought government land
a few miles west of Connersville, and there gave his labor to the im-
provement of a farm, and continued its management until his death.
After the death of Thomas Jefferson Davis, his wife was left with nine
children, most of whom were still under the roof-tree, and the sons took
up the work left by their father, and under the able supervision of the
mother cleared the land, and tilled the soil, until they had made a pro-
ductive and well improved homestead. Some years later the mother
moved to Anderson, where her death occurred at the- venerable age of
eighty years. She was the mother of nine children who grew to maturity,
namely : William, Jasper N., Eliza, James H., Doctor Ball, Sarah, Eliza-
beth, Rachel A., and John E.
The early circumstances of the life of John Davis have thus been
sketched in connection with the family, and he wa^ about five years old
when he became a resident of i\Iadison county, and has a keen recollec-
tion of the old log house and many of the surroundings in which he
spent his boyhood. While growing up he attended the rural schools, and
was still very young when he took his share of the labor in clearing up
the land and tilling the soil. For several years he had the management
of the home place. He subsequently moved to Anderson, and spent four
years in business in the sale of agricultural implements. Then he joined
"forces with his brother Doctor B. Davis, and manufactured drain tile
for three years. After that he returned to Anderson and followed his
trade as a carpenter for some time. About 1899, Mr. Davis engaged in
his present business as dealer in feed and coal at his present stand, 1015
Fifteenth Street.
In 1874 Mr. Davis married Elizabeth Stephens. She was bom in
Wayne county, Indiana, a daughter of Thomas and Lovina Stephens.
The" five children born to Mr. and Mrs. Davis are mentioned as follows :
Thomas, Quiney, Edna, Clarence C, and Bertha May. Thomas died at
the age of six, and Quiney at the age of five. Edna married Ed. Bar-
deene, and has one daughter, Marion. Clarence married Emma Kep-
hart, and their four daughters are named Jessie, Mary, Agnes, and
Edna. The daughter Bertha first married Thomas Stanley, who died,
leaving one daughter named Helen. Mrs. Stanley is now the wife of
Ed. Gerhamer. Fraternally Mr. Davis is affiliated with the Tribe of
Ben Hur.
468 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
BusHROD W. Scott. For many years the name Scott was familiarly
associated with the mercantile enterprise of the city of Anderson. Mr.
Scott first became a resident of Madison county, about the beginning of
the Civil war, 1860, arriving here a comparatively poor young man, and
from one employment to another gradually advanced until he became
an independent business man, and was in the list of successful mer-
chants until he finally retired from business and is now spending lijs
later years in the enjoyment of a well won prosperity. He belongs to a
prominent old family of colonial ancestors, and for several generations
identified with the old colony and commonwealth of Virginia.
Bushrod W. Scott was born in Mouongahela county, in what was
then Virginia, but is now West Virginia. The date of his birth was
June 9, 1839. The family record during its residence in America goes
back to his great-grandfather. Major David Scott, who was born in the
land of hills and heather, immigrated to America during the colonial era,
and settled in the colony of Virginia. He made the acquaintance of, and
became a fast friend of George Washington, and when the Revolutionary
war came on rose to the rank of major in the colonial troops. Later he
secured a large tract of land in what was afterwards Monongahela
county, and operated his estate with slave labor. He continued a resi-
dent there until his death. Next in line of descent was Col. James Scott,
the grandfather, who was born in western Virginia, inherited a large
landed estate and many slaves, and became a very prominent citizen
of Monongahela county. He served with the rank of colonel during the
War of 1812, and was honored with the office of sheriff of Monongahela
county. Before his death he freed all his slaves. His life was prolonged
to the great age of ninety-four years. On a part of his estate he set
aside some land for a cemetery, and his remains now rest there in the
vicinity of the old Scott homestead. There were ten children in his
family, among whom was Sanford B. Scott, father of Bushrod. San-
ford 13. Scott was born in Monongahela county, was reared on a farm, and
inherited a portion of the land which Major Scott had secured many
years before.
He continued to live there until several years after western Virginia
had become the state of West Virginia, and in 1867 immigrated west
to Indiana, buying land in Henry county, which was his home' until 1870
when he sold out and bought a place in Lafayette township of Madison
county. He was engaged in general farming and stock raising there
until his death at the age of sixty-seven years. Francis B. Scott married
Hannah Tibbs, a native of Virginia, and a daughter of John and Mary
(McCay) Tibbs, who was bom and spent all their lives in the old Vir-
ginia commonwealth. Mrs. Sanford B. Scott died at the age of 89,
and reared nine children, named : James, Bushrod W., Louise. Mary,
John, William, Virginia, Fannie, and Isabelle.
In the old ilonongahela River country, Bushrod W. Scott spent his
boyhood days, and lived there until he was about twenty-one years of
age. In 1860 he left the old home and came west to Indiana. His first
work and experience in this state were as a clerk in a general store at
Alexandria, in Madison county. In the spring of 1861 he returned to
Virginia, but found the country in which he had spent his boyhood rent
with the distractions of Civil war, and he accordingly returned to Madi-
son county, and was employed as a clerk for the firm of Crim & Hazlet
at Anderson. That firm then had the largest store in the county seat.
Four years later, the business was sold to Andrew Jackson, and Mr.
J
HISTORY OK MADISOX COUNTY 469
Scott coiitiiiiieil with the new proprietor for one year. His experience
and savings then enabled him to start ii< ' .isiness on his own account,
and he became a partner of E. C Rliveii. under the firm name of
Scott & Rliven. These partners sold dry goods, and had a growing busi-
ness. At the end of two years Mr. Siddall liought the interest of Bliven,
and the firm for tliree years was Scolt & Siddall. .Air. Scott then sold
out to his partner, and soon formed a ()artnersliip with his father-in-law,
William W. Williams, making the firm of Scott & Williams. They con-
ducted a general store, and it was one of the popular trading centers
of the time. After several yeai's Mr. Scott became sole proprietor, and
continued in active business at Anderson for about ten years, at which
time \\f retired. In the meantime he had bought a farm, and still owns
that i)lace. operating it through renters. Soon after his marriage he
liad bought the property at the northwest corner of ^leridian and Twelfth
Streets, and that is still in his possession. He occupied it as a place of
residence until 1904, when he bought his present home at the northwest
corner of Central Avenue, aiul Fourteenth Street. On June 25, 1868,
^Ir. Scott married ]\Iaanda Williams. She was born at Ogden in Henry
county. Indiana. Her father William W. Williams, was born near Mount
Victory in Hardin county, Ohio, a son of John Williams, who was a
farmer near Mount Victory. The father of ]\lrs. Scott came to Indiana
when a young man, and for several years operated a tannery at Knights-
town in Henry county. Later he was a merchant at Ogden in the same
county, afterwards moved to Richmond, Indiana, and a year later in
August, 1865, established himself at Anderson, which was then a quiet
rural village of about" five thousand people. He is still remembered as
one of the old merchants of Anderson, and was in business with his son
Henry C. for some years, and afterwards with ^Iv. Scott. Mr. Williams
lived in Anderson until his death at the age of seventy-five. He married
Martha Raines, who was born in Ohio, a daughter of Joab Raines, who
came from Ohio to Indiana, lived in Wayne county, and then in Henry
county, buying a farm near Knightstown. where he spent the rest of his
active life. His death occurred at the home of his daughter in Ogden.
The mother of Mrs. Scott died at the age of sixty-two years, and reared
five children, named : Henry. Lucien, Maanda, Adeline, and Edgar.
The daughter named Caroline died in childhood.
To Mr. and ^Irs. Scott have been born four children: Charles, Lena,
Marshall, and Robert. Lena married Leonard Wild, and has one son
named Robert. Marshall married Nora Ellison, and their one son is
named George. These are the only two grandchildren of Mr. and Mrs.
Scott. The family worship in the Methodist church.
Joseph H. Elliott. A business man of Anderson, where he has
had his residence since 1904, Mr. Elliott has had a career of varied ac-
tivity, has gained a satisfying degree of material prosperity, and stands
high in the public esteem of local citizenship in his adopted city.
Joseph H. Elliott was born in Adams co\inty. Ohio. His father was
James Elliott, who was born in the same c(mnty, and the grandfather
was W^illiam Elliott, a native of North Carolina. Oreat-grandfather
Elliott, so far as known, was also born in North Carolina, and from that
state took his family to Ohio, becoming a pioneer in Adams county. He
bought and improved a tract of land there, and on it passed his last
days. Grandfather Elliott early in life learned the trade of carriage
builder. From Adams county he moved to Ross county, where he estab-
470 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
lished himself in business at Bainbridge, and manufactured and re-
paired wagons and carriages. That was his home until his death. He
married Mary West, who was born in Loudoun county, Virginia, and
both she and her husband lived to a good old age and reai-ed eleven
children.
James Elliott, the father of the Anderson business man, spent his
early life in Adams and Ross counties of Ohio. Under his father's direc-
tion he learned the same mechanical trade, and was in business at Bain-
bridge, until 1873. In that year he moved to Gibson City, Illinois, where
he continued in the same line for several years. In 1908 he took up his
residence at Anderson, which continued to be his home until his death
on November 9, 1911, at the age of eighty years. He married Sarah
Palmer. She was bom in Loudoun county, Virginia, June 4, 1829. Her
father Cornelius Palmer was a life long resident of Virginia. Benja-
min Palmer, father of Cornelius Palmer, married Mary Berry, who sur-
vived her husband, and went to Ohio to live with her son, dying in the
home of Cornelius Palmer. Cornelius Palmer was reared and married
in Virginia, and in 1833 went to Ohio, accompanied by his family. With
a wagon and six horses this long journey was accomplished over the
mountains and across the Ohio Valley, and in the wagon were the house-
hold goods and other possessions, and each night the family camped out
by the roadside. For one year the Palmers lived on the banks of the
Scioto River, and then Cornelius Palmer bought land in Adams county.
On the land was a log house, and a few acres were cleared, and he set
himself to the task of making a homestead. All his labor went for noth-
ing on account of a defective title, and after that misfortune, he moved
to Highland county, Ohio, which was his home until 1864. From Ohio,
he moved out to Ford county, Illinois, where he had four hundred acres.
When he first settled there that section of Illinois was sparsely populated,
and only a little portion of his land had been improved. His labors he
gave to the development of that place and after some years moved to
East Lynn, in Vermillion county, which was his home until his death
at the age of eighty-six years. Cornelius Palmer married Harriet
Beavers. She was born in Loudoun county, Virginia, a daughter of Sam-
uel and Sarah Beavers. Samuel Beavers was a native of Maryland,
moving from that state to Virginia, and he and his wife both died in
Loudoun county. The wife of Cornelius Palmer died in her ninetieth
year, and her death was the result of an accident. Mrs. Sarah Elliott,
the mother of Joseph H. Elliott, is now eighty-four years of age, a hale
and hearty woman, and presides over the household of her son.
Joseph H. Elliott was an only child, was educated in the schools of
Greenfield, Ohio, and after the family went to Gibson, Illinois, assisted
his father in the shop and also clerked in local stores. It was iu that
way that he got his first lessons in business life. From Gibson City he
moved to Rockford, Illinois, and became superintendent of a fence fac-
tory, and a sewing machine company agent and remained there for four
and a half years. In 1893 Mr. Elliott came to Indiana, and was a com-
mercial salesman in this state for a number of years. In 1904 he took
up his permanent residence at Anderson, and since that time has con-
ducted a provision and grocery business.
In 1878 Mr. Elliott married ilary A. McCracken. She was born near
Lexington, in McLean county, Illinois, a daughter of Milton McCracken.
Mrs. Elliott died in 1908, and' she and her husband reared two sims, Harry
and James C. Harrv, who is associated with his father in business mar-
• iiwv^
^ . E'
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 471
ried Flossie Reed, and has one daughter, Maxine. James C. married
Florence Brockmeyer, and has one son, Gerald. Jlr. Elliott and also
his wife during her lifetime had membei-ship in the Jlethodist church,
and his parents were likewise active in that denomination. Fraternally
he is affiliated with the ^Modern Woodmen of America.
Clinton M. Cotterman. A resident of Anderson who iov some years
has made a substantial business of furnishing the people of this locality
with the product of a market garden is Clinton M. Cotterman, who has
his gardens well within the city limits, and who has also served the com-
uuinity in official capacity, and has long taken an active interest in
politics.
Clinton M. Cotterman was born on a farm three miles west of Day-
ton in Montgomery county, Ohio, September 1, 1849. His father was
William Cotterman, born in Pennsylvania, and the grandparents moved
from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and became early settlers of ^Montgomery
county. William Cotterman in early youth learned the trade of cigar-
maker, which he followed all his active career. When the war broke
out between the states, he enlisted as an Ohio volunteer, and gave effi-
cient and loyal service to the Union. His last yeai-s were spent at the
soldiers home near Dayton. William Cotterman married Amanda
J. JlcPherson. Her father was a millwright by trade, and died at the
age of thirty-seven. His widow managed to keep her children together
until each had a home of his own. The mother of IMr. Cotterman died at
the age of forty years and left seven children named : Clinton M.,
Adam P., James B., William, Albertus, Clara B., and Catherine.
Clinton M. Cotterman was reared and educated in his native county.
As a boy he worked under his father to learn the cigarmaker's trade
and afterwards acquired the trade of broom making. W^hen he had
grown to manhood he chose the occupation of farming instead of his
trade, and bis first purchase of land was forty acres in ^Montgomery
county on the line of Preble county. In 1893 he sold out his place in
Ohio and moved to ^ladison county. He soon afterwards bought some
land in Union township, farming there for one year, after which he
operated as a renter for five years and then came to Anderson. He has
a pleasant home at the corner of Eighth and Union Streets, and a tract
of four acres near by where he is engaged in truck farming.
Mr. Cotterman has been twice married. At the age of twenty-four he
married Sarah ;M. House, who was born in ^Montgomery county, Ohio, a
daughter of Andrew and Mary (Reichard) House. Mrs. Cotterman died
at the age of thirty-five. For the second marriage Mr. Cotterman mar-
ried Rachel Ellen Loy, who was born in Preble county, Ohio, a daughter
of Conrad Loy. Mr. Cotterman has one son by his first marriage, named
George. Since casting his first presidential vote for General Grant,
Mr. Cotterman has always consistently supported the Republican ticket,
has been active in the campaign, and has served in the office of township
assessor.
Enoch E. Byrum. A distinguished and influential member of the
clergy of the Church of God, author of high-grade and valuable works
and president of the Gospel Trumpet Company, whose printing and
publishing plant, located near the city of Anderson, is one of the finest
in the state of Indiana, Mr. Byrum is numbered among the prominent
and honored citizens of Madison county, has been a power for good in
472 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the various relations of life, is a man of high attainments and exalted
character and is eminently entitled to representation in this publication.
Enoch E. Byrum is a native son of Indiana and is a son of one of
the old and honored families of this commonwealth. He was born in
Randolph county, on the 13th of October, 1861, and is a son of Eli and
Lucinda (Fields) Byrum, the former a native of North Carolina and the
latter of Tennessee. The father devoted the major part of his active
career to the great basic industry of agriculture and both he and his
wife passed the closing period of their lives in Randolph county,
Indiana. They were folk of devout Christian faith and their lives
signalized their practical observance of the faith which they thus pro-
fessed and by which they guided and governed themselves, so that they
ever held secure place in the confidence and high regard of all who
knew them.
He whose name initiates this review gained his early education in the
public schools of his native county. Thereafter he entered the Northern
Indiana Normal School, at Valparaiso, and in this institution, now
known as Valparaiso University, he was graduated as a member of the
class of 1886, after the completion of thorough courses in elocution and
oratory. Thereafter he attended in 1887, Otterbein University, at
Westerville, Ohio, in which admirable institution he specialized in Sun-
day-school work and in philosophical and divinity studies. Setting to
himself high purpose and determining to devote himself to the aiding
and uplifting of his fellow men, he earnestly and effectively prepared
himself for the ministry, and in 1892 he was ordained as a clergyman
of the Church of God. Mr. Byrum has done most consecrated and
faithful services as a worker in the vineyard of the Divine Master and
has become one of the most influential factors in the affairs of the church
of which he is a representative. Since 1889 he has been editor of the
"Gospel Trumpet," published by the Gospel Trumpet Company, and this
is one of tht leading periodicals of the religious denomination with which
he has been long and prominently identified. In 1904 Mr. Byrum made
a tour of the world for the purpose of examining the ancient manuscripts
of the Bible and otherwise expanding his wide knowledge of Christian
literature and activities, and investigating the outlook of Foreign Mis-
sionary work and establishing missions in the foreign fields. In 1909-10
he made a most zealous and effective missionary tour through the southern
states. Central and South America and the West Indies. Mr. Byrum
has written voluminously on subjects pertaining to religion and human
responsibilities and ideals. Among the most prominent of his published
works are those bearing the following named titles: "The Boy's Com-
panion," "Divine Healing of Soul and Body," "The Secret of Salva-
tion," "The Prayer of Faith," "The Great Physician," "Behind the
Prison Bars," "Travels and Experiences in Other Lands," and "The
Secret of Prayer." Each of these volumes has been issued from the
presses of the Gospel Trumpet Company, of which he is president.
In the year 1880 the publication of the "Gospel Trumpet" was insti-
tuted at Indianapolis, and moved in 1906 to Anderson, Indiana, where
the plant was located on the comer of Ninth and Main streets. There
the business was most successfully conducted until 1910, when the com-
pany purchased fifty-seven acres of land just outside the corporate
limits of Anderson, adjoining the eastern part of the city, one mile
from the court house, where they have erected large buildings of concrete
construction, modem in every respect, for the accommodation of the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 473
extensive publishing business of which Mr. rum is the executive head,
ami iu the upbuilding of which he has bce'i ilie dominatiug force. On
the same grounds have been erected by the company an excellent build-
ing for the accommodation and residence of employes and also an admir-
able home for old folk who are affiliated with the Church of God. The
equipment of the printing and publishing plant is of the most
modern and approved order, including the best cylinder and job presses
and three linotype machines, so that the establishment is one of the
best of the order in the entire Union. j\ir. Byrum is president of the
company as has been stated previously, and the other members of the
official board are as here designated : A. L. Byers, vice-president, and
N. H. Byruiu, secretary-treasurer.
In 1889 Jlr. Byrum was married to Rlioda B. Keagy. She bore
him six children, named as follows : Ethel E., now Mrs. Kimble of
Anderson, Indiana ; Birdie Ruth, E. Arlo, Mabel Qrace, Bemice Mariva,
and Nilah Virginia. The wife and mother died on September 14, 1907,
and on October 1, 1908, ;\lr. Byrum married Miss Lucena C. Beardslee,
of Seattle, Washington.
Mr. Byrum is a man of broad culture, but has naught of intellectual
bigotry or intolerance in his makeup. As a citizen he is essentially pro-
gressive and public-spirited and his genial personality has gained to
him the high regard of those with whom he has come in contact in the
varied relations of life. In his political activities, he votes for the prin-
ciple and the man behind it, not being one to make a fetich of adherence
to any especial political party.
George W. Pettigrew. From an inheritance of five and a half acres
of land, George W. Pettigrew has increased his hjoldings in Madison
county in recent years until today he has a goodly acreage of two hundred
and sixty-two and a half acres of the finest land to be found in this section
of the state, all of which is under cultivation and which yields its owner
an excellent income. Mr. Pettigrew has been a resident of this township
all his life, and was born here on January 8, 1858, the son of Samuel J.
and Mary J. (Tingley) Pettigrew.
Samuel J. Pettigrew was born in Rockbridge county, Virginia, Feb-
ruary 15, 1827, and his wife was a native of the state of Ohio, bom
in Greene county, in 1832. Both are now deceased. The father came to
Greene county, Ohio, in his young manhood, and there met and married
Mary Tingley, after which tliey came to Madison county, Indiana. From
1852 until 1862 they lived in this county, then returned to Ohio and
settled in Greene county. The year 1870 saw their return to these parts,
where they passed the remaining years of their lives. The father died
August 10, 1874, but the mother survived until March 15, 1893. They
became the parents of ten children, of which number eight are yet living.
Those who survive are named as follows : Mary E., the widow of Jacob
Newfarmer; William H.. of Whitely county, Indiana; David M., of
Missouri; James J., of Hancock county, Indiana; Samuel A., of Ander-
son, Indiana ; Francis :M.. in the regular army of the Philippines, with
the rank of lieutenant; Charles E., of Madison county, Indiana; George
W.. of this review.
George W. Pettigrew was reared in Green township, and all save
eight years of his life have been passed, here. He was trained in the
common schools of the community and until he reached his legal majority
remained on the home place. He then took up farming on his own re-
474 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sponsibility, and his life since then has been devoted to that industry.
As was mentioned in another paragraph, he inherited five and a half
acres of land, but he was not content with an acreage of that size, and
today a fine farm of two hundred and sixty acres yields generously to
his skill in husbandry. General farming and stock raising constitute his
business, and as a breeder of Shorthorn cattle, part of which are regis-
tered stock, he is well known throughout the county, as the result of hi.s
twelve years of activity in that line. He feeds and ships more than a
carload of cattle yearly, while his thoroughbred stock finds market in
Indianapolis. Mr. Pettigrew in 1907 erected one of the finest country
homes in the county. It is a commodious place of thirteen rooms, with
ample basement, and is built on modern lines, calculated to produce a
comfortable and homelike place. When completed, the home cost him
something like $5300. The place is equipped with a hot water heating
plant and is furnished throughout in quartered oak and black walnut.
On November 20, 1879, ]\lr. Pettigrew married Miss Lavina Whelchel,
who was born in Fall Creek township, Hamilton county, Indiana, on
September 20, 1862, and is a daughter of Abraham and Eliza Allen,
the former born in Hamilton county, Indiana, on i\Iay 28, 1836, and the
latter in the same county, on August 31, 1835. She died on August 4,
1907, but the father is still living, and makes his home in Hamilton
county, where they passed their lives. They became the parents of eight
children, as follows: Alva, who has a family of five children; Fairy- B.,
the wife of Frank Bixler ; Roy ; Delia, the wife of Jesse Partain ; Wayne ;
Lulu ; Grover C. ; Irene.
The family are members of the German Baptist church and hold
their membership at Beach Grove, Mr. Pettigrew being one of the direc-
tors of the church, and a leading member. He is a Progressive Democrat,
and one of the best known men in his community, where he is esteemed
and respected for the many excellent traits that characterize him.
GARLAJSfD Hancock. As superintendent of the north Anderson
Schools, Mr. Hancock is a young educator who has proven his value and
ability, and is now performing a very capable service in one of the
largest schools in the county.
Garland Hancock was bom in 1887 in Richland township, Madison
county, and belongs to one of the old families of this section of the state.
His parents were James and Jennie (Bronneberg) Hancock, and the
father was for a number of years engaged in the livery business at Ver-
sailles in Ripley county, and previous to that time was a farmer. The
four children in the family were Garland, Fern, Flora and Ernest.
The early years of Garland Hancock's life were spent on a farm, for
the most part, and he was educated in the common schools of Lin-
wood, and Chesterfield, and in the high school of Anderson, from which
he was graduated. He later attended the University of Indiana, and
after' he came home in 1909, he took up the vocation for which he had
prepared himself. He has been engaged in educational work for some
years, has held various positions and as principal of the north Anderson
school he ranks as one of the leading educators of jMadison county. His
two sisters. Fern and Flora, are also engaged in teaching in Madison
county.
Mr. Hancock married Miss Cora Groundyke, daughter of Thomas
Groundyke, of whom a sketch appears elsewhere in this work. To Mr.
and Mrs. Hancock has been born one child — Donald. The family occupy
and enjoy a comfortable residence in the vicinity of Linwood, and are
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 475
the recipients of the kindly regard and sincere esteem of all who share
in their acquaintance. Mr. Hancock is affiliated with the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, in a f rater-. jl way, and though not a member of
any especial church, he is generously inclined toward all. In addition
to his teaching work. Mr. Hancock finds time to give to the cultivation of
a farm of 140 acres and which yields a bountiful crop, as well as afford-
ing him a genuine pleasure, derived from its cultivation.
Samuel DougliAS Montgomery. Among the officials of Madison
county who are rendering the community signal service in the discharge
of their duties, none have attained a greater degree of popularity than
that which has come to Samuel Douglas ^lontgomery, who has served
efficiently since January 1, 1911, in the office of county assessor. A resi-
dent of this county since early boyhood, he was for years identified with
the agricultural and stock raising interests of this section, and the suc-
cess with which he met in his own affairs made his fellow citizens confi-
dent that he would have no trouble in successfully handling the affairs
of the county in the office which they tendered to him. That this confi-
dence was not misplaced is at once evident when Mr. Montgomery's
record in office is seen. He is a native of Butler county, Ohio, and was
born April 18, 1859, a son of Samuel and Mary (Thurston) Montgomery,
both American born.
Mr. Montgomery 's grandparents were natives of England, and shortly
after their marriage in that country emigrated to the United States and
became early settlers of Butler county, Ohio, where the grandfather pur-
chased a tract of laud and spent the best years of his life thereon. He
was a man of integrity, industry and enterprise, strong in his convic-
tions of right and wrong, and public spirited in matters pertaining to
his community. He gained and held the esteem and regard of his
fellow citizens through a long life of honorable dealing, and his influence
was sought in all matters of public importance.
In 1865 Samuel Montgomery came to Madison county, Indiana,
purchasing a farm in Lafayette township, but later in life he moved to
southern Kansas, where he spent several years. He returned to Alex-
ander, ]\Iadison county; in 1892, and there spent the remaining years
of his life, his death coming on February 27, 1899. Mrs. Montgomery
had died many years before, when still in comparatively young woman-
hood.
Samuel Douglas Montgomery attended one term in a primitive log
school house in Butler county, Ohio, the rest of the years being passed in
assisting his father in the work of the homestead. He also attended the
school in Lafayette township at indefinite periods, and he remained under
the parental roof until he was about twenty years of age,- at which time
he married Miss Mary C. Thomas, of Lafayette township, Madison
county, the daughter of Edwin Thomas, an elderly settler and a pros-
perous citizen of that township. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs.
Montgomerj' settled on a farm in Lafayette township, and he has since
been engaged in diversified farming. He subsequently moved to a farm
in Monroe township, where he lived for some years. He was successful
in his farming operations, and he gave a great deal of attention to the
breeding of Short Horn Cattle. He was also a contractor in general road
building and engaged in the draining of farms and roads, each of his
ventures proving uniformly satisfactory in its results.
Mr. ^Montgomery has always been a stalwart Democrat, and while
residing on his farra has served capably during one term as a member of
476 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
the County Council. In 1910 he became the candidate of his paj-ty for
the office of county assessor, and when he was elected to the office for a
four year term, moved with his family to Anderson, where he purchased
a modem residence at No. 1613 Fletcher street. He placed his farm in
the hands of his son, Samuel Ward Montgomery, who is successfully
carrj'ing on its activities in a manner worthy of his father. This tract
consists of ninety-seven and one-half acres, and is in a high state of culti-
vation, testifying to Mr. Montgomery's ability as a farmer. His emi-
nently acceptable method of handling the affairs of the assessor's office
has not only won for him the confidence and approbation of his fellow
citizens, but has gained him many friends among all classes.
On March 2, 1879, Mr. Montgomery was united in marriage with Miss
Mary C. Thomas, and to this union there have been bom five children,
as follows: Edward, who is engaged in farming iu Madison county;
Nellie, who became the wife of Charles D. Way mire, also an agriculturist
of this section ; Samuel Ward, who is carrying on operations on the
homestead; Josephine, who married Hugh E. Robinson, a prosperous
farmer of Monroe township, and Harvey L., also a farmer.
Dk. Lot Edwabd Alexander has practiced medicine and has per-
formed the varied responsibilities and duties of good citizenship at
Pendleton, since 1879, and is one of the best known citizens of Madison
county. His name is spoken with respect on the north and east sides
of the county, but it is with his home community of Pendleton that he
has been most closely identified.
Dr. Alexander is descended from old American stock, originally of
Scotch ancestry on both father's and mother's side. The family was
founded in America by Hugh Alexander, who emigrated from Scotland
in 1736 and settled in Chester county, Pennsylvania. Farming was his
occupation and that he was a man of more than ordinary standing and
influence in his community is evidenced by the fact that he was chosen
a delegate from Cumberland county, to which he subsequently removed
to the conference of deputies called in Carpenter Hall at Philadelphia on
July 15, 1776. It was at that meeting that the first free constitution
. of Pennsylvania was adopted. Hugh Alexander was married in 1854,
to Martha Edmiston, who was also of Scotch descent. The great-grand-
father Alexander, of Dr. Alexander was in the Commissary Department
in Washington's army during the Revolution, and for his faithful services
to the cause of the colony was given fifteen hundred acres of land, which
he subseqiiently located in North Thumberland county, Pennsylvania.
Another fact concerning the ancestors might be added. Dr. Alexander's
maternal great-grandfather Brown, when a child, was stolen temporarily
from his home, by the famous Mingo chief Logan, and kept two days,
during which time Logan made and placed on the child's feet a pair of
moccasins, and after pajang these evidences of his regard and showing
the best possible entertainment returned the child unharmed to his
parents.
Dr. Alexander's father was Cyrus Alexander, who was bom in
Mifflin county, Pennsylvania, September 30, 1807, and followed farming
at his regular vocation. He had a common school education, was a Pres-
byterian in religion, and a stanch Republican throughout his adult life.
His death occurred September 7, 1889. Cyrus married Mary Brown, who
was born also in Mifflin county, Pebruarv 20, 1814, and died August
12, 1894.
Dr. L. E. Alexander was bom in Pennsylvania, and his literary edu-
I
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 477
catiou was acquired at Washington and Jefferson College in the city of
Washington ij; -.v-btern Pennsylvania. On March 12, 1874, he was grad-
uated M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania, and thereafter spent
one year in the Western Pennsylvania Hospital at Pittsburg, in 1875
was engaged in the Philadelphia Dispensary, and in 1876 entered the
medical department of the United States Navy. He served as assistant
surgeon in the United States Navy, and was for six months in the quaran-
tine service on the west coast of Florida. Later he was assigned to duty
on the receiving ship Potomac at the Port of Philadelphia. Dr. Alex-
ander moved west and located in Indiana, in 1877, first in Fayette
county, and in 1879 established his home and residence at Pendleton,
where he has lived and practiced medicine for almost thirty-five years.
Dr. Alexander served one year as president of the Madison County
Medical Society, and has membership in the Indiana State, the Missis-
sippi Valley, and the American Medical Association. He has always
been a Republican, and for the past fifteen years has served as a trustee
of the Pendleton Consolidated School District. Reared in a Presby-
terian family, he was affiliated with that church for some time, but now
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Pendleton. Frater-
nally the doctor belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the
Knights of Pythias, and the Benevolent arid Protective Order of Elks.
On November 5, 1879, Dr. Alexander married Jliss Carrie Boyd
Hughes, at Cambridge City, Indiana. She received her education in the
schools of Cambridge City, and is a daughter of Evan and Samantha
Hughes, her father having been of Pennsylvania Dutch Stock.
Charles L. Oldham. One of the well known prosperous farming
men of Fall Creek township of whom it is but reasonable that mention
be made in this historical and biographical work devoted to the repre-
sentative men of the county, Charles L. Oldham takes a leading place in
the representative activities of Pendleton and the township. He waa
born in Champaign county, Illinois, in December, 1866, and is the son
of A. W. and Barbara A. (Stephens) Oldham, the latter being now de-
ceased, and the former a resident of Pendleton, Indiana. Both were
natives of Hamilton county, Ohio. The father came to Madison county
when he was about eighteen years of age, and in 1864 married Miss
Stephens. He was a veteran of the Civil war, serving three years in
the Union army, and seeing much of the activities of the long siege.
Three children were bom to these parents: Charles L., Frank F., un-
married and a resident of Pendleton, Indiana ; and Delia May, also un-
married, and living at home.
Charles L, Oldham was four years old when he came to Madison
county with his parents, and as a boy in the home community he attended
the district schools. He later was graduated from the schools of Spring
Valley, after which he turned his attention to farming. In October,
1888, Mr. Oldham married Miss Fannie J. Tyson, who was born in Madi-
son county, Indiana, in September, 1866, and was educated in the com-
mon schools of her native county. They have one child, Orville W., born
August 21, 1889, who is now married to Lola Smith.
Mr. Oldham and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal
church at Pendleton, in which they are active and energetic with refer-
ence to the work of the various departments, and fraternally Mr. Old-
ham has membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and of
the Knights of Pythias. In the former order he is a Past Grand, and has
held various offices in both lodges. He is a Republican and has taken
478 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
an active part in the party ranks. In 1912 he was the nominee for the
office of commissioner of the South District of Madison county. He
has a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres about a mile and a half
distant from Pendleton, on Lick Creek Pike, and is recognized as one
of the successful and enterprising farmers of the township.
Arthur Wolfe Brady. The president of the Union Traction Com-
pany of Indiana, whose home for a number of years had been in Ander-
son, was born at Muncie, Januarj' 13, 1865, a son of General Thomas J.
and Emeline (Wolfe) Brady. On his father's side there is a combina-
tion of both Irish and English stock, while the maternal forbears were
some of them German and others French. On both sides the earliest mem-
bers of the family came to the United States during the eighteenth
century. His father, the late Thomas J. Brady was born at Muncie in
1839, and he died at Jersey City, New Jersey, in 1904. A lawyer by
profession he won distinction in militarj' affairs, and in public life. He
served throughout the Civil war, with the rank of Captain and Major in
the Eighth Indiana Infantry, and was colonel of the one hundred and
seventeenth and the one hundred and fortieth Indiana regiments, and
was brevetted brigadier general towards the close of the war. For a
number of years he was editor and publisher of the Muncie Times, served
as consul at St. Thomas, West Indies, was supervisor of internal revenue,
and still later held the post of second assistant postmaster general at
Washington. Emeline Wolfe Brady was born at Westfield, Ohio, in
1842, and died at Muncie in 1884.
Arthur W. Brady attended the public schools of Muncie, prepared for
college at a private school in Connecticut, graduated from Yale Univer-
sity A. B. in the class of 1887, during the following year read law in
the office of an uncle at Fort Wayne and was graduated from the law de-
partment of the University of Michigan in June, 1889, with the degree
of LL. B. :\Ir. Brady pra"^cticed law at .Muncie from 1889 to 1902, and
maintained an office at Indianapolis from 1902 until 19C4. He was
elected mayor of Muncie on the Democratic ticket in 1902, and his service
in that office continued until September, 1905. He became general coun-
sel for the Union Traction Company of Indiana, and in 1904 was elected
president of this the largest interurban transportation company in the
state. It was at that time known as the Indiana Union Traction Com-
pany, and is now the Union Traction Company of Indiana. The main
offices of the company were moved to Anderson in the fall of 1904, and
his home has been in that city since that date.
Mr. Brady is a Democrat, and during the time of the free-silver
issue of 1896 belonged to the Gold Wing of that party. In June, 1893, he
married Jane Ninde, daughter of Lindley M. and Beulah C. Ninde,
of Fort Wayne, Indiana. She died in the same year, and in 1901 he mar-
ried Caroline H. McCulloch, daughter of Dr. James McCulloch and Caro-
line J. JlcCulloch of ]\Iuncie. Mr. Brady has two sons : George Wolfe
Brady, born at Indianapolis, August 22, 1903 ; and Arthur Adam Brady,
born at Anderson, February 23, 1905.
Wallace B. Campbell has been closely identified with the busi-
ness life of Anderson since coming to the city in 1895. He is well
and favorably remembered as editor and owner of the Anderson Herald,
which he built up to be one of the best equipped printing establish-
ments in any city of similar size in the state. After several years of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 479
very suL-cussful newspaper work he turned his attention to real estate,
developing one of the largest flat, apartment and business properties in
the city. In addition to looking after his own property interests during
the past eight years, he has been secretary of the Anderson Commercial
Club, which has been a most efficient organization in the promotion of
the city's industrial development.
Mr. Campbell was born on a farm in DeWitt county, Illinois, June
8, 1857. His father was Joseph Wallace Campbell, who was born' near
Paris, Bourbon county, Kentucky, on April 1, 1820, and who came to
Indiana about 1840, settling on a farm near Bloomington. Mr. Camp-
bell's mother, Mary Ann (Blakely) Campbell, was born near May's
Lick, Mason county, Kentucky, on Fehrujiry 5, 1824, and moved to a
farm near Bloomington in 1834. She married Joseph W. Campbell on
October 19, 184.3, and in 1849 they entered eighty acres of land in De-
Witt county, Illinois. There were eight children bom of this union.
William 0., the first born, served three years in the Union army before
he came of age. The others were Louise J., Alice, Sarah E., Laura,
Wallace B., Hilary J., and Lawrence E., all living today with the single
exception of Louise J. The mother died on March 5, 1894, and the father
followed her on November 18, 1896, at Roberts, Illinois. Both were
almost lifelong members of the Christian church and lived exemplary
lives for simplicity, integrity, gentleness and neighborly kindness.
Wallace B. Campbell lived on a farm until he was twenty-two years
of age. His early education was obtained in the district schools, with
the exception of two short terms in a village school. He taught school
near his father's farm in Ford county, Illinois, for two years and during
that time assisted at home on the farm and did one year's work in
preparation for college, without an instructor. He entered the fresh-
man class in Indiana University in 1880 and wis graduated with the
class of 1886. During his last year he had charge of the laboratory work
in Botany w-ith W,. S. Blatchley who graduated the following year and
who was afterward State Geologist for many years. He taught school
in Montgomery county two years before graduating from the university,
it being necessary to earn his college expenses in that manner. He
entered the university on less than .$50 and boarded himself for two
j^ears. He was elected principal of the Paxton (Ills.) high school in the
fall of 1886, and the next year he read law with Messrs. Paul, White and
Humphreys of Crawfordsville, Indiana, and was admitted to the bar in
that city. He opened a law. real estate and loan office at Roberts, Ford
county, Illinois, but it proved a poor location, as Ford county was largely
agricultural, without saloons and with very little crime to be contended
ivith, so that the "pickings" for a young lawyer were disagreeably
sparse. However, during his residence there, he tried about a dozen
cases, winning each of them.
Mr. Campbell had acquired some taste for newspaper work while
in college and as waiting for "eases" made no strong appeal to a man
of his native energy and activity, he decided to accept the invitation of
Hon. N. E. Stevens, of Paxton, Illinois, to become associated with Mr.
Stevens' son, Arthur H. Stevens, in newspaper work at Auburn, Indiana.
There the two young men bought the Auburn Dispatch, June 1, 1889.
This proved to be a successful venture in a business way, and five years
later Jlr. Campbell bought Mr. Stevens' interest in the paper and ran
it alone for a year, selling it in June, 1895, to buy the Anderson Herakl.
When Mr. Campbell bought the Herald in the year named, as far
480 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
as equipment was concerned, the plant was a veritable junk shop, barring
the presence of some good type and one small job press. It was manned,
however, with a number of good employes, among whom was Charles H.
Neff, one of the present owners. Mr. Campbell brought Mr. Edward C.
Toner, of Martinsville, now another of the owners of the paper, to the
Herald as city editor in October, 1895, and about the same time Harry
T. Hallam, of Auburn, came as foreman of the mechanical department,
a position he still holds. Mr. Campbell's next step was to equip the
plant with the best machinery money could buy. In this' equipment was
a Cox angle-bar web perfecting press, the first one installed in Indiana,
and a Mergenthaler linotype machine, the second or third to be installed
in the smaller cities of the state. The first paper published from type
set on this machine was issued on July 4, 1897.
Mr. Campbell was a close student of newspaper and job printing.
He frequently consulted a number of the most successful newspaper men
in the state and profited by their experience. He served at different times
as secretary and president of the Indiana Republican Editorial Associa-
tion, and was several times sent as a delegate to the National Editorial
Association meetings. He was frequently to be found on the program
in state and national meetings. He attributes his success in newspaper
work, which is recognized throughout the state, to three things — good
equipment of his plant, surrounding himself with loyal and competent
workmen, and conscientious and faithful service to the community served.
The Herald was sold to Edward C. Toner and Charles H. Neff on
June 1, 1901, since which time ^Ir. Campbell has given his attention to
the buying and developing of the Campbell, Annex, Jefferson and Lin-
coln flat, apartmeiit and business properties.
When the Anderson Commercial Club was organized in December,
1905, the first board of directors selected Mr. Campbell as Club Secre-
tary. He was reelected each succeeding year up to the present time.
During the entire time he has served in the office at a personal sacrifice,
but always with the highest regard for whatever would promote the best
interests of the city. The city has enjoyed marked industrial develop-
ment during the eight j-ears of Mr. Campbell's service, much of which
has been directly due to the work of the Commercial Club. The new
industries brought to the city, or the old ones retained, through work
of the Commercial Club, have during that period paid out more than
$3,500,000 in wages. Of this sum from ten to fifteen per cent is net
profit to the city.
Mr. Campbell has always been greatly interested in the public schools.
In June, 1909, he was unanimously elected a member of the School
Board, serving as secretary two years and as president one year. He
was president of the Board when the present new high school building
was completed in 1912. During his service he stood for the most rigid
economy in the expenditure of the public funds, but he especially
favored an increased wage for the grade teachers, with a view of holding
more of the best teachers where the greatest number of pupils might be
benefited. He urged the largest development of the manual training
and vocational courses and the establishment of a business course in th(
high school, with the hope of making all of the school work more practi
cal and useful to the great body of pupils who must depend upon thi
public schools for their entire education. His work on the board wa
carried on in a direct line with the ideas and plans of the advocates o
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 481
vocational education, whit-h has S(> -lately come to be an issue of greatest
importance in the public schools generally.
On October 19, 1892, ilr. Campbell married Miss Sarah E. Tarney,
daughter of Samuel J. and Nancy Tarney, of Auburn, Indiana. Mrs.
Campbell was graduated fmni the State Normal at Terre Haute, Indiana,
in 1884, and after serving as principal of the Bourbon (Indiana) high
school for one year, was elt?tted a member of the State Normal Faculty,
which position she held up to the time she was married. In the fall of
1895 she was elected supervisor of instruction in the Anderson schools,
serving in that capacity for three years, and declining reelection for a
fourth year, because of her wish to retire from the teaching profession.
Probably no woman in IMadison county has done more practical work
forthe cause of education than has Mrs. Campbell. For years she was
instructor in many county institutes throughout the state, and she has
revised several school readers for the American School Book Company.
In addition to Mrs. Campbell's enthusiastic interest in education, which
she still retains, she is greatly interested in public charity and in the
work of the correctional institutions of the state. She was appointed by
Governor Hanly as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Indiana
Girls' School, was reappointed by Governor Marshall and for the past
three years has been president of the board. She is president of the
Madison County Children's Home Association, and has been since the
organization of the association thirteen years ago.
Mr. Campbell, also, has a keen interest in all of these matters, and is
a director and treasurer of this board of which his wife is president.
Both are members of the Tourist Club and Mrs. Campbell is a member
of the Clio Club, both being literary organizations of representative
order.
Spencer G. Bevilhimee. For more than sixtj' years a resident of
Madison county, Mr. Bevilhimer is one of the citizens whose name and a
brief record of whose career should be permanently recorded in any
history of the community. He represents a family which had its part
in the early development of the county, he was himself one of the Madi-
son county's soldiers for the war of the Rebellion, and since his return
to the county as a veteran soldier he has had his full share in the re-
sponsibilities of making a living and providing for home and family,
and has also discharged his duties to the general community, with an
efBciency which brings him honor.
' Spencer Gorland Bevilhimer whose farm of one hundred and fifteen
acres is situated in Lafayette township was bom September 12, 1845,
in Franklin county, Indiana. His parents were Charles and Sarah
(Gorland) Bevilhimer. The father, a native of Pennsylvania, had the
following family of children : Susan, deceased ; George, who was a
soldier of the Civil war, and now deceased; Edmund, deceased, also a
soldier of the war ; Spencer G. ; Sarah, Elmer, and Anna, deceased ;
Charles M. ; and Lewis.
The father brought his family to Madison county in October, 1849,
and located his home in Lafayette township. It was in this vicinity there-
fore that Spencer G. Bevilhimer spent his early career and when he was
a boy he went to school in an old log school house, which stood in the
neighborhood. He is probably one of the few citizens still living in this
county whose early schooldays were passed in one of the old-time struc-
tures, with its slab basis, its fireplace, and its generally rough and primi-
482 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
tive jiccommodations and facilities. During his school days he also
worked on the home farm, and in this way passed his years until he
was eighteen. Then in 1863 at Anderson he enlisted in Company B, of
the One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana Infantry under Captain E B.
Downe and W. H. Mays. The One Hundred and Thirtieth Indiana was
assigned to the First Brigade, second division, of the Twenty-third Army
Corps, under General Scofield. The brigade contained the following
regiments, the Third and Sixth Tennessee; the Fourteenth Kentucky;
the Twenty-Fifth Michigan; the Ninety-Ninth Ohio, and the Sixth
Michigan Battery, comprising about 3,500 men in all. The engage-
ments in which Mr. Bevilhimer and his regiment participated were as
follows : Taylors Ridge in Georgia, Rockj^ Face, Snake Creek, Buzzards
Roost, Sugar Valley, Burnt Hickory, Kingston, Rome, Resaca, Pumpkin-
vine Creek, New Hope Church, Pine Mountain, Lost Mountain, Gulp's
Farm, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta, Chattahoochee River, Peach Tree
Creek, Decatur, Atlanta, Rough and Ready, Jonesboro, Lovejoy, Rome,
Nashville, Kingston, and the final surrender of Johnson, the Confederate
leader at Greensboro, North Carolina.
After the war Mr. Bevilhimer returned to this county and began
his practical career as a farmer. He rented land from Stephen Kerr,
and it was as a tenant and by hard labor and good management that he
finally secured enough to provide for a home and to buy land for his
career as an independent farmer.
On December 23, 1866, he married Miss Eliza J. Jenkins, a daughter
of Daniel and Tabitha (Moore) Jenkins, from Pike county, Ohio. The
parents settled in Lafayette township. Her mother's father, Samuel
Moore, was one of the early pioneers. Mrs. Bevilhimer has one sister
and brother living. Isaac Jenkins of Anderson and Mrs. Thompson.
Mr. and Mrs. Bevilhimer attended the same school. The nine children
of Mr. and Mrs. Bevilhimer ^re: Altha, Nora, Frank, Amanda, Anna,
Wade, Walter, Lethie and Nila. Mr. Bevilhimer is a past commander of
his G. A. R. Post No. 244 at Anderson. Fraternally he is affiliated with
the Masonic Order Lodge No. 77 at Anderson, and with Commandery
No. 32 K. P. He is a member of the Methodist church and in politics
affiliated with the principles of the new Progressive party.
James W. Gkipfin. An able representative of the business interests
of Elwood, James W. Griffin is widely known in insurance circles of
the Hoosier State as the assistant superintendent of the Prudential
Life Insurance Company. Mr. Griffin was born ]\Iarch 6, 1868, at Pitts-
boro, North Carolina, and is a son of James D. and Sarah A. (Harman)
Griffin.
John Griffin, the paternal great-grandfather of Mr. Griffin, was a
native of Ireland, whence he came directly to the United States and
settled in Ohio. There also settled Henry Harman, the maternal great-
grandfather of Mr. Griffin, who had been born in the Fatherland. Wes-
ley Griffin, the grandfather of James W. Griffin, was born in Virginia
(now West Virginia), was a farmer, and became an early settler of
Chatham county. North Carolina, near Pittsboro, where he spent the
remainder of his life. He reached advanced years, as did also his wiie,
Malsey (Bland) Griffin, a native of North Carolina, and they became
the parents of a large family of children, among whom were : Sidney,
James D., Joseph T., John Wesley, Julia A. and Betty, twins; and
Elijah. James Henry Harman, the maternal grandfather of James
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 483
W. Griffin, was born in North Carolina, and there married Rebecca Chad-
wiek. He was a wagon maker, and also engaged in general repair work,
and at one time enlisted for service in tho War of 1812-14, but saw no
active fig:hting. He died on the old home p' ice at Pittsboro, North Caro-
lina, when eighty-nine years of age, while his wife was seventy-eight
years old at the time of her demise. They had the following children:
Jpseph, Elizabeth, Sarah A. and Marj-, twins, and John Thomas.
James D. Griffin was reared on his father's farm in North Carolina,
and was engaged in agricultural pursuits at the time of the outbreak of
the struggle between the North and the South. Enlisting in the Con-
federate army, for four years he fought valiantly for the cause he
believed just, and when the war was closed he had a record as a brave
and faithful soldier. On his return to the pursuits of peace, he resumed
his agricultural operations, and was so engaged until his retirement,
some ten years ago. At this time he is acting in the capacity of door-
keeper of the North Carolina Legislature. His wife died February 3,
1883, at the age of forty-four years. She was a member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South, while he is connected with the Christian
Church. They were the parents of nine children, as follows: James W.,
residing at Elwood ; Isaac N., of Raleigh, North Carolina; Mary J.,
deceased, who was the wife of Isaac Clark; Ida L., the wife of Robert A.
Glenn, of Pittsboro, North Carolina ; Emily, single, and a resident of
Southern Pines, North Carolina; John T., of Pittsboro; Robert L., re-
siding at Durham, North Carolina; and William T. and Walker, of
Pittsboro, North Carolina.
James W. Griffin received his education in the district schools of his
native locality, and continued to reside under the parental roof until
attaining his majority, in the. meantime being thoroughly trained in
agricultural work. Following this he rented a farm near the homestead
for four years, but eventually decided that fariAing was not his forte,
and on April 14, 1893, came to Elwood and secured employment in the
plate glass works. A short time thereafter, he went to work for the tin
plate works, where he continued for thirteen years. During this time,
Mr. Griffin had been soliciting life insurance as a side line, and by 1908
his business had grown to such an extent that he decided to give his whole
attention to this work, and accordingly identified himself with the
Prudential Life Insurance Company of America. He is now assistant
superintendent at Elwood, and maintains offices in the Hene Block. The
peculiar talents necessary to the successful soliciting of life insurance
are possessed in a remarkable degree by Mr. Griffin, and he is known as
one of his company's most valuable men. He has made numerous friends
both in and outside of business circles, and a pleasing, genial personality
has had much to do with the building up of a subetantial business.
On November 25, 1897. :Mr. Griffin was married to Miss Stella A.
Luse, daughter of William H. and Lucinda (Beeler) Luse, and to this
union there have been born five children : WilUam J. ; Robert Paul,
who died in infancy; Velma L. ; Emereth E. and Helen Lucille. Mr.
and Mrs. Griffin are members of the Christian Church, and Mr. Griffin
is one of the elders of the Elwood congregation. He belongs to Quincy
Lodge No. 200, I. 0. 0. F., and to the Encampment of that order. He
was reared a Democrat, but has strong Prohibition tendencies. While
he has not sought public office, he has showTi an interest in matters which
have affected his community, and his support has been given to progres-
484 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sive and beneficial movements at all times. His comfortable moderit
residence is located at No. 312 South Twenty-first street.
Mrs. Griffin was born in Madison county, Indiana, near Elwood,
while her father was a native of Preble county, Ohio, and her mother of
Indiana. They still reside on the old home place near Elwood, and are
farming people. They have four children: Emereth E., Stella A.,
Charles and Cassius C. Mr. Luse was a soldier during the Civil war.
The paternal grandparents of Mrs. Griffin were Robert and Abigail
(Wheldon) Luse, natives of Ohio, while her maternal grandparents were
James and Carolina (Jackson) Beeler, who came from the Old Dominion
State.
Lewis Heffneb. A substantial business citizen whose history has
been commensurate with that of Elwood from the time this flourishing
and prosperous city was but a small, struggling village, Lewis Heffner
has played no small part in the great growth and development here dur-
ing the past forty years, during which time he has been intimately iden-
tified with some of the city 's largest business interests. His life has been
one of industry and perseverance, and the systematic and honorable
business methods which he has followed have won him the support and
confidence of his fellow-citizens. Mr. Heffner was born in Berks county,
Pennsylvania, October 5, 1839, and is a son of Daniel and Mary
(Schmeck) Heffner.
The history of the paternal grandparents of Mr. Heffner has been
lost, but on the maternal side his grandparents were John and Miss
(Heckmann) Schmeck, natives of an old Berks county family which
settled in Pennsylvania long before the Indians had left that section.
Both reached advanced years, Mrs. Schmeck being past ninety at the
time of her death, and they had a large family, among whom were Cath-
erine, Mary, Lena, Hannah, Elizabeth, Lydia and Daniel. Daniel
Heffner was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, and for many years
resided about seven miles from Reading, where he was the proprietor of.
a blacksmith shop. His death occurred there when he was seventy-nine
years of age, and he was widely known and highly esteemed in his com-
munity. He married Mary Schmeck, also a native of Berks county,
who survived him for some time, and was about seventj'-nine years of
age at the time of her demise. He was a Lutheran in his religious belief,
while she adhered to the faith of the German Reformed Church.
Lewis Heffner was reared in Berks county, Pennsylvania, where he
obtained a common school education, and as a lad was engaged in assist-
ing his father in his blacksmith shop. When twenty years of age he
began learning the mill-wright 's trade, which he followed for four or
five years at Lewiston, Pennsylvania, and while living there cast his first
vote, which he gave in support of Abraham Lincoln. In 1860 Mr.
Heffner came to Indiana by way of Chicago, stopping off at Logansport
for a time and going thence to Lincoln, where he erected a sawmill for
a Mr, Wright. He remained at that place for seven years, and then
purchased a piece of land in Tipton county, on which he erected a saw-
mill, continuing to operate that business during the next seven years.
Subsequently, he came to Elwood, then but a small village. Bringing
his sawmill here, he continued to operate it successfully until 1908, in
addition to which he conducted a small planing mill. In the meantime,
in 1865, he had engaged in the lumber manufacturing business, and in
1908 he embarked in dealing in coal, and now employs a large force of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 485
men iu handling coal, lumber and -all kinds of building material. He
has seen Elwood grow and develop, and has not been a mere spectator,
for he has done a great deal of building, and has in many ways assisted
to forward the progress of the city of his adoption. In 1911 he erected
a garage, which is occupied by an automobile concern.
On ^lay 15. 1867. Mr. Heffner was married to Miss Sophia Eraeline
Ferguson, who was born at Shelbyville. Indiana, daughter of James and
Esther (Gibson) Ferguson, the former a native of Little York. Pennsyl-
vania. Mr. and Jlrs. Ferguson had children : Mary, Jane, Lafayette,
Emeline, Retta, William, ^Margaret, Rebecca, Wilkison, Louise and
Amelia. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Heffner :
James Daniel, who married Mi.ss "Bert" Lewis, and died in 1906;
\Vinnie, who became the wife of Lewis W. Whipple, of Elwood ; Abby,
who married C. L. Bruce, of Elwood, and has children,— Winnetta,
Lewis, Glen. Margaret. James, Esther. Roberta and Dorothy ; Robert
Lee Lewis, who lost his life in a railroad accident at the age of seventeen
years; Charles, who died in infancy; Benjamin, who died when aged
about eighteen months ; and Odeta, who also died young.
;\[rs. Heffner is a member of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr.
Heffner supports the principles of the Prohibition party. For a short
time he was a member of the city council of Elwood, but resigned before
the expiration of his term. A man of upright life and honorable dealing,
he has gained and retained the respect and esteem of his feUow-citizens,
and his career is worthy of emulation by those of the younger generation.
John H. Lail, M. D. It is widely recognized, in a comparison of the
relative value to mankind of the various professions and pursuits to
which men devote their time and energies, that npne is more important
than the science of medicine. Human destiny is largely in the hands
of the physician from the cradle to the grave, not alone on account of
the effect of his ministrations may have upon the physical system, but
upon men's moral and mental nature as well. A cheerful presence, a
sympathetic disposition and a kindly nature often contribute to a
patient's recovery in as great a measure as the medicines administered,
and therefore form essential qualifications to be possessed by the success-
ful practitioner. In none of these has Dr. John H. Lail, of Anderson,
been found lacking. A resident of Anderson since 1905, he has steadily
advanced iu his profession, gaining marked distinction by reason of his
broad knowledge, his skill, and his devotion to the highest ideals of his
honored calling.
John H. Lail was born April 21, 1865, in Washington township.
Rush county, Indiana, and is a son of George H. and Mary (Shawhan)
Lail. His father, a native of Kentucky, removed from that State to
Rush county in young manhood, where he was engaged in agricultural
pursuits for some years, and upon his retirement went to Indianapolis,
where he continued to live in retirement. True to the characteristics
of Kentuckians. he was a great lover of horses, and was known during his
day as a noted breeder of and dealer in fine stock. Among his animals
were "Elsie Good," 2:18.
After attending the public schools of Rush county, Indiana, Dr.
John H. Lail received instructions in select school and snbseqnently,
becoming a student of medicine, took up his studies in the PhyBio-Med-
ical College, at Indianapolis, from which institution he was graduated
in 1893. Following this he entered upon the practice of his profession
486 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
at Ingalls, where he was successful in building up a large clientele, but
in 1905, desiring a wider field for his activities, came to Anderson, opened
well-appointed offices in the Union Building, and here has continued in
the enjoyment of a steadily-increasing practice. Keen discernment in
the diagnosis of a case, sound judgment in prescribing medicines and
methods of treatment, thorough understanding of anatomy, and marked
skill in the operating room, have won him rank among the ablest physi-
cians and surgeons of Anderson. He is a member of the Madison County
Medical Society. His fraternal connections are with the Camels of the
World and the Modem Woodmen of America, in both of which he has
numerous friends. He is a man of public-spirit and a broad-minded
citizen, thoroughly awake to all enterprises tending to the public welfare.
In 1892, Dr. Lail was married to Miss Effie Newsom, who was bom
at Worthington, Greene county, Indiana, daughter of William J. New-
som, an honored citizen of Warrington, Hancock county, Indiana, where
for some years he served in the capacity of postmaster. Dr. and Mrs.
Lail have had three children : Verne N., and Gladys and Bernice, twins.
Verne N. is in business in Seattle, Washington; Gladys is the wife of
Merrill F. Gustin, of Anderson, and Bernice is living at home.
Ivan C. Dunlap. Every line of business is being successfully prose-
cuted at Elwood, for it is a community of sufficient importance to com-
mand a large trade from the surrounding country, and the people who
make it their market demand the best of goods and service. One of the
leading business men of this place is Ivan C. Dunlap, proprietor of the
handsome jewelry establishment located in the Milligan Block. Mr.
Dunlap was born at Arrowsmith, McLean county, Illinois, September
20, 1881, and is a son of Theodore F. and Eliza E. (Green) Dunlap.
The paternal grandfather of Mr. Dunlap, Calvin Dunlap, was bom
in Ohio, and was there married to Catherine A. Jones, a native of the
Keystone State. At an early day they migrated to McLean county,
Illinois, there dying when some years past middle age. They were the
parents of six children: Theodore F., Byroji, Lilly, Belle, Jane and
Charles. ]\Ir. Dunlap 's maternal grandparents were Gilbert and Mary
(Finch) Green, natives of New York, and early settlers of McLean
county, Illinois, where he passed away, Mrs. Green being nearly ninety
years of age at the time of her demise in Indiana, her husband dying
when some years younger. They had one child: Eliza E. Mr. Green
had contracted a former marriage, by which he had four children :
Marshall, Benoni S., Lydia and Eunice. Theodore F. Dunlap was born
in Ohio, and was about nine years of age when he accompanied his
parents to ^McLean county, Illinois, settling south of the town of Ells-
worth, where he grew to manhood. His first employment was as a
country school teacher, but later he turned his attention to the hardware
business and. for some years worked in a store at Arrowsmith. Return-
ing to the homestead south of Ellsworth, he was engaged in farming
there for a number of years, and then purchased a large farm in Jasper
county which he still owns, but he and his wife are now living retired,
and make their home in Elwood. During his residence in McLean
county, ]\rr. Dunlap took some interest in matters of a political nature,
and served his township as road commissioner for a period of twelve
years. Both he and his wife have long been faithful members of the
Methodist Church, in the faith of which they have raised their family.
They have had four children, namely : Charles B., who is a resident of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 487
Elwood; Claude M., who uow lives in Syracuse, New York; Ivan C,
Elwood, Ind. ; and Orville G., of Bloomington, Illinois.
Ivan C. Dunlap was reared on his father's farm in McLean county,
Illinois, and like other farmers' sons of his day received his education
in the district schools, which- he attended during the winter terms, his
summers being spent in the work of the home farm. Later, he attended
the Illinois Wesleyan University, at Bloomington, and after leaving that
institution took a trip through the West, looking for a suitable place in
which to settle. Eventually he settled in Attica, Indiana, where he
began to learn watchmaking, and on thoroughly mastering this delicate
science located in Bedford, Indiana, where for two and one-half years
he acted in the capacity of head watchmaker for R. E. Dale. He first
came to Elwood as manager for Fred W. Green, jeweler, whose stock he
subsequently purchased, and moved it to his present quarters on South
Anderson street, in the Milligan Block. Here he has a beautiful show
room, arranged to tastefully and advantageously display his elegant
stock of watches, rings and other fine jewelry. His trade has shown a
healthy and gratifying increase, and among the business men of the
city he is recognized as a substantial man of affairs.
On February 26, 1903, Mr. Dunlap was married to Miss Ora V.
Kenton, who was born near Rensselaer, Indiana, daughter of William
and Serepha (Hemphill) Kenton, natives of the Hoosier State, the
former of whom resides at Mitchell, South Dakota, where Mrs. Kenton
died at the age of fifty-five years. There were thirteen children in the
Kenton family: Mason, Frank, El, Fannie, Laura, Clara, Evelyn,
Blanche, Ora, Simon, Elizabeth and two others. Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap
have had four children: Kenton, Helen, Max and Janice. They are
consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Chufch, and liberally
support its movements, and Mr. Dunlap holds membership in the Elks
and the college fraternity of Sigma Chi. His political faith is that of
the new Progressive party.
John A. Moon, the proprietor of a picture-framing establishment at
No. 1418 Main street, has been a resident of Elwood for more than
twenty years, and during this time has gained a substantial position
among the business men of the city and a place in the confidence of those
with whom he has been associated. He has witnessed the marvelous
growth and development which has made this city one of the principal
commercial and industrial centers of this part of the state, and has been
an active participant in many of the movements which have brought
this great progress about. Mr. Moon was born November 16, 1848, in
Clinton county, Ohio, and is a son of George and Elizabeth (Smith)
Moon.
Samuel Moon, the paternal grandfather of John A. Moon, was bom
in Tennessee, and was a farmer all of his life, his death occurring in
Clinton county, Ohio, when he was well along in years. He and his wife
were the parents of a large family of children, among them Simeon,
Isaac, Joshua, Asa, William, Alva, George, David, Susie, Nancy and
Martha. John Smith and his wife, the maternal grandparents of John
A. Moon were natives of Virginia, were farming people, and attained
to ripe old age. They had a family of eight children, namely: Eliza-
beth, Margaret, Sarah", Rachel, Hannah, Lena, John and William. George
Moon, father of John A. Moon, was reared in Clinton county, Ohio,
where he became the owner of a farm, which he cleared and improved.
488 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
There he reared his family, spent the balance of his career, and died in
1905, at the age of eighty-four years. Mr. Moon passed away in Febru-
ary, and his wife survived only until the following September, when
she followed him to the grave. She was a member of the Society of
Friends, while he was a Universalist. They had a family of nine chil-
dren : Amanda, the wiie of William Kester, of Clinton county. Ohio ;
Emma, the widow of Peace Wallace, of that- county; John A., of this
review ; Columbus, still living in Clinton county, Ohio ; Maggie, the wife
of Daniel West, of the same county ; Marion, deceased ; Asa, of Clinton
county, Ohio ; Oscar, also of that county ; and Ulysses, who lives on the
old homestead place there.
John A. Moon was reared on his father's farm in Clinton county,
Ohio, and received his education in the public schools of JMartinsville.
He remained under the parental roof until he reached his majority, at
which time he began his own career as a farmer on his father's place,
subsequently purchasing a tract of thirty-seven acres, which he continued
to farm until 1890. At that time Mr. Moon left the farm, and in the
spring of 1893, after being variously employed, came to Elwood. which
has since been his home. He was employed for three years at the car-
penter trade and then entered the employ of R. L. Leeson, in whose
department store he remained for eighteen years. Since 1911 he has
been engaged in the picture framing business on his own account, a ven-
ture which has proven decidedly successful. Mr. Moon is proficient in
the artistic framing of pictures, and his skillful work has enabled him
to build up a large business, and many samples of his dexterity and excel-
lent judgment are to be found in his establishment at No. 1418 Main
street.
On May 18, 1872, Mr. ]Moon was married to j\Iiss Maggie Page, who
was born in Ohio, daughter of Lewis and Margaret Melvina (Leonard)
Page, natives of southern Ohio, who became early settlers of Grant
county, Indiana, and died there in middle life. ^Ir. and Mrs. Page had
five children : Maggie, Kate, John, James and Elsie. After the death
of his first wife, I\Ir. Page was again married, and had one son : Henry.
To Mr. and Mrs. Moon there have come three children : Lillie, who mar-
ried K. 0. Chandler, of Elwood, and has two children, — Mandron and
Otella ; Orlan. who died on his sixth birthday ; and Lora, who married
Charles Osting, of Elwood, and has a daughter,— Irene. Mr. and Mrs.
Moon belojig to the Cliristian Church, and lie is serving as deacon of
the Elwood congregation. The pleasant family home, at No. 1301 South
E. street, was erected by Mr. Moon in 1898.
Orlando D. Hinshaw. It has been found that the better class of
druggists, everywhere, are men of scientific attainments and high integ-
rity, whose lives are devoted to the welfare of their fellow-men in sup-
plying the best of remedies and purest medicinal agents of known value,
in accordance with physicians' prescriptions and scientific formula.
Usually the greatest reward for long years of study and many hours of
daily toil in their vocation is the earning of a fair living, with the
satisfaction which arises from the knowledge of the benefits conferred
upon their patrons and the assistance rendered the medical profession.
Among the men of Madison county who have assisted in making thr
drug business one of the most honorable of callings, Orlando D. Hin-
shaw, of Elwood, takes prominent rank. Since 1905 he has been con-
ducting his present establisliment, at No. 212 South Anderson stree.t.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNT V 489
and during this time he has tirmly established himself in the confidence
and good will of his towns-people Mr. Hinshaw was born at Sheridan,
Hamilton county, Indiana, October 21, 1875, and is a sou of Isaac N.
and Anna (Furnace) Hinshaw.
John Hinshaw, the paternal grandfather of Orlando D. Hinshaw,
was born in North Carolina and there married Sailie Commons, who was
also a native of the Old North State. About 1842 they settled on a farm
in Hamilton county, Indiana, and there both passed away in the faith
of the Friends' Chui-ch. Their children were as follows : Isaac, Thomas,
Andrew, Dugan C, William E., Martha, Sena, Lydia, and three who
died in infancy. On the maternal side, .Air. Hinshaw is descended from
Joseph and Patty (Conipton) Furnace, natives of Ohio and eai-ly
settlers of Hamilton count}-, Indiana, where they carried on agricultural
pursuits until their deaths when advanced in years.
Isaac N. Hinshaw was born in North Carolina, and was five years of
age when he accompanied his parents to Indiana, his education being
secured in the public schools of Hamilton county. Following the voca-
tion of his father, he adopted farming in early Ufe, and for some time
has resided at Sheridan, Indiana, where he reared his family. He mar-
ried Anna Furnace, who was born in Ohio, and they became the parents
of four children, namely : Ella J., who became the wife of T. C. Owen,
of Carmel, Indiana; Lua B., who is the wife of John H. Glaze, of Cham-
berland, South Dakota; Orlando D.; and Eula, who married Archie
Seward, of Tyrone, Oklahoma.
Orlando D. Hinshaw was reared in Hainilton county, Indiana, where
he attended the public schools, and subsequently went to Ridge Farm,
Illinois, where during the next four years he studied pharmacy. Re-
turning to Sheridan, he purchased a store, in which he continued for a
few jears, and then went to Darlington, Indiana, where he was the pro-
prietor of an establishment for two years. At that time he decided to
try his ability as an agriculturist, and accordingly traded his store for
a small farm in JMontgomery county, but this he afterwards sold. Since
1902 he has made his home in Elwood, and here, in 1905, he bought his
present pharmacy. He has been successful in this venture, has built up
a steadily-increasing trade, and is known as one of his locality's influen-
tial and substantial citizens. With his family, he takes a prominent
part in the work of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where he is treas-
urer of the board of trustees. He has likewise been prominent in fra-
ternal circles, being master of Quincy Lodge No. 230, F. & A. M. ; and a
member of Elwood Chapter No. 109, R. A. M. ; Sheridan Lodge No. 176,
Knights of Pythias; and the local lodge of the Modern Woodmen of
America. He is not a politician, but has rendered valuable service to
his community in assisting to advance movements for the general wel-
fare, and everywhere he is recognized as a public-spirited, earnest and
progressive citizen.
On October 23, 1897, Mr. Hinshaw was united in marriage with Miss
Cora Perry, who was born in Sheridan, Indiana, daughter of James L.
and Josephine (Lindley) Perry. One child has been born to this union:
Eugene.
Frederick Mosiman. Into two classes may roughly be divided men
who achieve success. The first of these are the dashing geniuses who
engineer brilliant coups and march to victory with good fortune waiting
on their taknts; the second class consists of the patient, solid men, who
490 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
forge more slowly but more surely forward, and whose accomplishments
are as a rule more stable and permanent. In the second class of business
men of Elwood may be mentioned Frederick Mosiman, a resident of this
city for more than twenty-two years, during which time he has steadily
advanced as a factor in the business life of the place, until now " Mosi-
man's," at No. 114 S. Anderson street, is one of the best known estab-
lishments in Elwood handling shoes, men's furnishings and miUiaery.
Mr. Mosiman is a native of Indiana, having been born September 11,
1858, in Wells county, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Eichel-
berger) Mosiman.
Andrew Mosiman, the paternal grandfather of Frederick Mosiman,
was a farmer by vocation and au early settler of Wells county, where he
continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death, which
occurred in advanced age. He married Caroline Mosiman, and they
became the parents of six children, as follows : John, Jacob, Frederick,
Andrew, Mary and Anna. The record of the maternal grandparents of
Mr. Mosiman has been lost. Jacob Mosiman was born in Switzerland,
and in the citj' of Suramitville was reared and learned the trade of
cooper. He was still a young man when he accompanied the family to
the United States, and on settling in Wells county, Indiana, among the
early settlers, started to work at his trade. In later years he engaged
in the hardware business, at Newville, now called Vera Cruz, and in his
declining years retired from business a successful man, and moved to
Bluffton, Indiana, where he died in 1908, at the age of eighty-four years.
His wife, who was also a native of Switzerland, passed away in young
womanhood, many years ago. They were members of the Evangelical
Church, but in his later years Mr. Mosiman became a member of the
Methodist faith. For one year he served as a soldier in the Union army
during the Civil war. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Mosiman,
namely: John, Ferdinand, Frederick, Samuel, Mary and Caroline.
Frederick Mosiman was reared in Wells county, where he attended
the public schools of Vera Cruz until he was nine years of age, at which
time he accompanied his parents to Bluffton, and there grew to manhood.
On completing his attendance in the public schools, he became a clerk in
a dry goods store, receiving his first introduction to business when fifteen
years of age. He continued to follow the same employment for the
next twenty years, eighteen of which were spent in Bluffton and the
other two at Pleasant Lake, and during this time he thoroughly mas-
tered every detail of the business. Mr. Mosiman came to Elwood in
1892 and here became manager of the Wiley Department Store, a posi-
tion he held for five years, at the end of which time he embarked in the
shoe business, in partnership with W. S. James, an association which
continued for seven years. On Mr. James' retirement from the firm,
Mr. Mosiman continued the business alone until 1906, and in that year
admitted his son, Ralph K. Mosiman, to partnership, and the establish-
ment has since been known under the simple style of "' Mosiman 's. "
Since the store was founded. Mr. Mosiman has added millinery and
gentlemen's furnishings to his stock, in addition to carrying a full and
up-to-date line of the finest shoes. Mr. Mosiman has i)ossessed something
besides application and integrity. In practically every walk of life
there is a certain well-defined path to success that has been followed by
scores of others, but there are so many following it that progress is difiB-
cult. To get ahead of the procession, one must strike out for himself,
and it has been this initiative, this courage to seize opportunity or to
I
HISTORY OF JIADISON COUNTY 491
make it for himself, tliat lias led ^Ir. Mosiman to his present enviable
business prominence. His success has been his own, and none who know
bini will hesitate in saying that it has been well deserved.
On February 8, 1882, Mr. Mosiman was married to Miss Mary Ellen
Keller, who was born in Faribault, Miiniesota, daughter of Capt. Samuel
J. and Jlelvina (^Volleat) Keller. Three children have been bom to
this union : Ralph K., who married ^label Manford, and has two chil-
dren,— Frederick 0. and Lois Mabel ; Hugh F., who married Corinne
Poole, and has two children, — Robert H. and Wilbur C; and Howard
Arthur.
The paternal great-grandfather of Mrs. Mosiman was one of those
who assisted in building the old fort at Fort Wayne, and there in the
early days engaged in a number of battles against the Indians. One of
his sisters, captured by the Indians as a child, was not found until she
had become an old woman, having spent her whole life with her savage
captors. John Keller, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Mosiman, mar-
ried Rachel Keller, while the maternal grandfather, Wolleat, married
Adeline Beckler. Capt. Samuel J. Keller, father of Mrs. Mosiman, was
born in Ohio, and after traveling around to a number of states, settled
in Blutfton, Indiana. From that point he enlisted for service in the
Union army, during the Civil war, and fought bravely for four years,
advancing to the rank of captain. He died in his eighty-sixth year, in
July. 1911, while his wife, a native of Pennsylvania, passed away when
forty years of age. They were the parents of nine children, namely:
William H., Samuel F., Mary Ellen, Catherine Ann, Emma A., Jennie
R., Lydia M., John, and one who died in infancy.
'Sir. and Mrs. Mosiman are consistent members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. He belongs to Quincy Lodge No. 200, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, to the Encampment of that body, and to Elwood
Canton No. 3.3, in all of which he has numerous friends. In 1912 he
exhibited his progressive principles by giving his support to the new-
born party of the name. He has not sought public preferment, but at
all times has manifested a willingness to perform the duties of good
citizenship, and among his fellow-townsmen is known as a man of civic
pride and public spirit.
Will 6. Ev.\ns. Among the younger generation of business men of
Elwood, one who has made a place for himself in commercial circles is
Will G. Evans, the energetic proprietor of the pharmacy at Main and
Sixteenth streets. ]Mr. Evans was born in Irondale, Ohio, September 5,
1887, and is a son of John R. and Matilda (Mayberry) Evans.
The paternal grandparents of Mr. Evans spent their entire lives in
South Wales. They were the parents of a large family of children.
John R. Evans was born in South Wales, and as a young married man
emigrated to the United States, settling first at Irondale, Ohio, where he
secured employment in the tin plate works, and in that city his children
were reared. In 1897 he came to Elwood, where he was employed for
several years in the tin plate works, and since that time has worked for
the Ames Shovel and Tool Company. He is a skilled mechanic, a
thoroughly reliable workman, and possesses the confidence of his em-
ployers and the respect of his fellows. He and his wife are faithful
members of the Baptist Church. Mr. and Mrs. Evans have four chil-
dren: Richard John, residing in Elwood; May, who married a Mr.
492 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Defferon, of this city ; Rachel, who became the wife of Harry Constance,
and resides at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania ; and Will G.
Will G. Evans has been a resident of Elwood since his tenth year.
His early education was secured in the public schools, and he early
decided upon the druggist's business as his life work. Accordingly, he
served his apprenticeship to this calling in Elwood, and following this
entered the Indianapolis College of Pharmacy, from which he was gradu-
ated in 1910. Returning to Elwood, he entered the employ of 0. D.
Hinshaw, and later was with Fred W. Green, and in September, 1912,
embarked in business on his own account as the proprietor of his present
establishment, at Sixteenth and Main streets. Here he has an excellent
stock of drugs and druggists' sundries, toilet articles and such other
stock as is carried in first-class pharmacies. He has built up a good
business by applying himself assiduously to his work, and is now known
as one of the substantial business men of the city.
On October 12, 1910. ^Ir. Evans was married to Miss Vivian Sigler.
daughter of Dr. D. and Minerva (Pierce) Sigler. One daughter has
been born to this union : IMinerva Jane. Mrs. Evans was born in Elwood,
and has resided here all of her life, being a graduate of the Elwood
High School. She is possessed of much artistic talent, and for a time
was a student in the Art Institute. Chicago. Her parents have lived
here for many years, and her father is now the oldest physician in
Elwood. Mr. and i\Irs. Evans are members of the Baptist Church. He
belongs to Quincy Lodge No. 230, F. & A. M., and Elwood Chapter,
No. 109, R. A. M. His politics are those of the Republican party, but
he has never cared for the struggles of the public arena. The pleasant
family home is located at No. 1126 S. Anderson St.
William P. ]\Ieyer. The modern pharmacist is a man of many call-
ings, for his is a vocation that calls for knowledge of various other lines
of endeavor. His is a learned profession, necessitating years of study
in the sciences of pharmacy and chemistry, and his care and skill in
preparing prescriptions are of the most vital importance, while it is
doubtful if there are many other callings that ask such long hours of
labor. For these and other reasons the druggist is generalh' numbered
among the substantial men of his neighborhood, and to be the proprietor
of a successful pharmacy is to liave a position of prestige and one that
can only be gained through the medium of faithful endeavor and more
than usual ability. One of the modern, up-to-date drug businesses of
Madison county, is that of Green & Meyer, at Elwood, the junior partner
being William P. Meyer, who, although still a young man, has made a
place for himself in Elwood 's business circles. He was born in Taren-
tum, Pennsylvania, July 6, 1890, and is a son of Frank and Theresa
CWolf) Meyer.
The paternal grandfather of Mr. Meyer, Frank Meyer, was a native
of Germany, where he followed the tailor's trade, and there both he
and his wife, Theresa, died at advanced ages. They were the parents
of three children : Frank, Anthony and Joseph. On the maternal side,
Mr. Meyer's grandfather was Joseph Wolf, who married Elizabeth
Sclnnierhemi, and both spent their entire lives in the Fatherland, where
Mr. Wolf carried on agricultural pursuits. They had the following
children : John. Fred. Elizabeth. Mary and Theresa.
Frank Meyer, the father of William P. ]Meyer. was born in Dortmund
Province. Germany, and was there reared to manhood and became a glass
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 493
worker liy trade, although he subsequently followed various other occu-
pations. In 1887 he emigrated to the United States, and first settled at
Tareiitum. Pennsylvania, where he followed his trade, but in 1898 came
to Ehvciod, where he has since been employed as a steel worker. While
still a resident of Germany, he served in the regular army of his country.
H«' and his wife are consistent members of the Catholic church. They
have had five children : John residing at Jeanette, Pennsylvania; Prank,
who lives at Elwood; William P. ; Mary, who makes her home at Elwood,
and one child who died in infancy.
William P. Meyer attended the parochial school in Tarentum, Penn-
sylvania, until lie was eight years of age, at which time he accompanied
his parents to Elwood, Indiana, where he finished his primarj' schooling
and took a high school course. For a short time thereafter he was
engaged in keeping books, but eventually became connected with the
drug business as a clerk in Green's pharmacy, where he remained three
years. During this time he studied assiduously, and eventually entered
the Indianapolis College of Pharmacy, from which he was graduated a
registered pharmacist. On October 5, 1911, he formed a partnership
with his former employer, Mr. Green, and since that time the firm style
has been Green & Meyer, with Mr. Meyer as manager. The business of
the store has shown a gratifying increase and much of this is due to the
progressive ideas, improved methods and personal popularity of the
junior member of the firm, who has been able to attract to the estab-
lishment a new line of trade. He is courteous and obliging, is thoroughly
conversant with every detail of the business and with every piece of stock
in the store, and is familiar with his customers' needs and caters to them.
The stock is new, fresh and well selected, and ilr. Meyer has been able
to display it in a most advantageous manner.
Mr. Meyer is a member of the Catholic church. His fraternal con-
nections are with the Knights of Columbus and the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks. His political procilivities make him a Demo-
crat, but he has been too busy with the management of his business affairs
to think of entering the public arena.
Hon. William G. Zebf.ace, whose career as legist, jurist, business
man and citizen has refieeted honor upon himself and his community,
is widely known to the legal profession throughout Madison county, as
well as to realty men in this part of the state, where he has made his
home for many years. He is a native of Indiana, having been born in
Montgomery county, September 13, 1857, and is a son of Martin and
Mary Jane (Larew) Zerface.
'The Zerface family was founded in America by Philip Zerface, the
paternal great-great-grandfather of Judge Zerface, who came from
England, although his people were originally from near Berlin, Ger-
many. Jacob Zerface. the great-grandfather of Judge Zerface, was bom
in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, and from that place enlisted for
service in the Colonial army during the War of the Revolution. Adam
Zerface, son of Jacob Zerface, was born in Virginia, from whence he
moved at an early day to Ohio, and in 18.39 moved to Indiana and there
spent the remainder of his life in farming. His wife, who bore the
maiden name of Elizabeth, died young, in 1840, having been the mother
of the following children : George, Jacob, Margaret, Martin, Philip,
Silas, Sarah and Catherine. Martin Zerface, father of Judge Zerface,
was born in Ohio, and was ten years of age when he accompanied his
494 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
parents to Indiana in 1839. He grew to manhood in Montgomery
county, and became a carpenter by trade, but subsequently turned his
attention to farming in Wayne township, where he accumulated 240
acres of land. There he reared his family, and his death occurred at
Waynetown, in 1897, when he was sixty-nine years of age, while his
widow survives him and resides at the old home place in town. Mr.
Zerface was married in Montgomery county, Indiana, to JIary Jaue
Larew, wjio was born in Indiana, daughter of Garrett and Elizabeth
(Ricketts) Larew, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of this
country. They were pioneers of Indiana and located in Wayne town-
ship, Montgomery county, where JVIr. Larew became engaged in farm-
ing and stock dealing. lie died on the home place when just past middle
life, while she died in advanced years. Their children were : Abraham,
Nancy, Garrett, Esther and Mary Jane. Mr. Larew served his country
as a volunteer during the Blackhawk War. To Mr. and Mrs. Zerface
there were born four children, namely : William G. ; Jacob Andrew,
who- lives in Montgomery county ; John W., who is deceased ; and Rosa
M., who became the wife of George Warfield, and resides in Montgomery
county.
William G. Zerface was reared on his father's farm in Montgomery
county, it being his parents' intention to make an agriculturist out of
the lad, but the latter had other views as to what should be his life work.
After attending the district schools of Wayne township, he went through
Ladoga College and the Northern Indiana Normal school, at Valparaiso,
and for several years thereafter was employed as an educator. He next
became a clerk in a mercantile establishment, and while so employed
found an opportunity to study law, and in 1884 was admitted to the bar
at Crawfordsville, where he began his practice as deputy prosecuting
attorney in Wayne township, under John H. Burford, who afterwards
became judge of the Oklahoma Supreme bench. His health failing, after
several years Judge Zerface came to Elwood, where he was again en-
gaged in clerking for a time, but eventually resumed his law practice,
and in 1904 was elected Judge of the Elwood City Court, a capacity in
which he served until January 1, 1910. During this time he established
a reputation as a wise, conscientious and impartial judge, and was known
as one of the most popular officials Elwood has ever had. On his retire-
ment from the bench. Judge Zerface entered the real estate business, in
which he is engaged at the present time.
On October 9, 1880, Judge Zerface was married to Miss Emma
Lidster, who was born in Montgo'mery county, Indiana, daughter of
William and Melvina (Goode) Lidster, the former a native of England
and the latter of Ohio. There were eight children in the Lidster family,
namely : Thomas, Mary, Henry, Anna, Cornelius, Araminta, Redden B.
and Emma. Judge and Mrs. Zerface became the parents of the follow-
ing children : Princella. who married John Misner, of Elwood, and has
four children, — Ruth, John, Lenora and Eugene; Grover, a'decorator of
Elwood, who married Bessie Hawkins, and has one child, — Gertrude;
James Lloyd, who married Dorothy Eckhofif, daughter of Clemens
Eckhoff, a furniture manufacturer, who lives in St. Louis, Missouri ;
Martin P. is in the employ of the American Sheet and Tin Plate Com-
pany, and also writes fire insurance as a side line; Allen Walter is in
the employ of the G. I. Sellers Manufacturing Company, and resides at
Elwood; and Nellie and Maurice Philip reside with their father. The
mother of these children died June 10, 1902, aged forty-three years, in
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 495
the faith of the Christian church. On December 15, 1910, Judge
Zerfaee was married to Mrs. Myrtle (Mitchell) Perkins, daughter of
John and Catherine (Shane) Jlitchell, natives of Kentucky. Of the
cliildren born to Mr. and ilrs. Mitchell the following are now living:
ilyrtle; Sylvester; Gertrude, who married Charles Hortou; Fiona, who
is single; and Ferol. Mrs. Zerfaee was born in Shelby county, Indiana,
and was married to Arthur Perkins, by whom she had one son : Henry B.
Perkins.
Judge Zerfaee is a valued member of the Improved Order of Red
Men and the Independent Order of Foresters. Although a stalwart
Democrat, he has never been an office seeker, and has served in public
office only when he has been suggested, nominated and elected by his
friends. Of these he has many throughout this part of the state, where
he is known as an exemplary citizen, a loyal friend and a man upon
whose record there is not the slightest stain or blemish.
Patrick S. Bradley, general manager of the Home Storage and
Manufacturing Company, at Elwood, Indiana, an example of the self-
made manhood of which this country is so justifiably proud, has been a
resident of this city for nearly twenty years, during which time he has
firmly established a reputation as a capable man of affairs. He was
born in Brooklyn, New York, May 14, 1854, and is a son of Arthur and
Ann (Murnin) Bradley, natives of County Down, Ireland.
The paternal grandparents of Mr. Bradley, Peter and Catherine
(Burns) Bradley, were farming people of Ireland, who passed their
entire lives on Erin's Isle, there attaining to ripe old age. They had a
large family of children, among whom were Peter, Bernard, Arthur,
Felix and Catherine. The maternal grandfather of Mr. Bradley was
Patrick ]Muniin, a farmer who was highly esteemed in his home district
in Ireland. He married Ann Murnin, and they both attained old age,
being the parents of these children : Arthur, Bridget, Catherine, Ann,
Mary, Lawrence. Patrick and John. Arthur Bradley, father of Patrick
S., was reared and married in Ireland, and there followed the trade of
weaver until his emigration to America in 1852. The family settled first
in Brooklyn, New York, bnt subsequently moved to Troy, New York,
where he became a boss maltster. Subsequently the family moved to
Cattaraugus county. New York, where Mr. Bradley engaged in farming
and lumbering, and there his death occurred in 1872, when he was fifty-
six years of age, while his wife passed away in February, 1912, at the
age of eighty-three years. Both were consistent members of the Catholic
Church. Their seven children were : Patrick S. ; Mary A., who became
the wife of Joseph Biederman, of Warren, Pennsylvania; John S., living
at Kane. Pennsylvania; Felix R., of Warren; Margaret, who became the
wife of William Fitz.patrick, of Lima, West Virginia ; Peter R., who also
lives at Lima ; and Thomas, whose home is at Sistersville, West Virginia..
Patrick S. Bradley was reared in Troy, New York, and there attended
the parochial schools. On completing his education he entered the
employ of the Standard Oil Company, at Troy, and following this joined
their forces at Bradford, Pennsylvania, where he continued to be
employed for upwards of a quarter of a century. In 1894 Mr. Bradley
came to Elwood, and this has been his home until the present time. For
seven years he was the proprietor of a saloon business, but sold out to
become identified with the Home Storage and Manufacturing Company,
of which he was president until January, 1913, and since that time has
496 HISTORY OF AlADISON COUNTY
acted in the capacity of general manager. This company, with which
he has been identified since shortly after its inception, manufactures
ice and pop and does a coal and cold storage business, and a large force
of men is kept busily occupied. Mr. Bradley has the executive ability
necessary to the handling of the multitudinous affairs incident to such
a position, and has the thorough confidence of liis associates and the
respect and esteem of his men. He has been able to develop and extend
the scope of the company's trade, and his dealings have been of a nature
calculated to inspire confidence and good feeling.
In October, 1890, Mr. Bradley was married to Miss Elizabeth Doran,
who was born near Louisville, Kentucky, daughter of Bryan and jMary
(Kavanaugh) Doran, natives of Ireland who are both now deceased.
There were five children in the Doran family as follows: Marj-. Larry,
Elizabeth, James and Bryan. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley have had eleven
children : Thomas, Bernard, Marguerite, Viola, Arthur, Edna and
Grenevieve, and four who died in childhood. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are
members of the Catholic church. They live in their own home, which
;\Ir. Bradley built in 1899, at No. 1003 S. Anderson street, and have
many friends in that vicinity. He is a Democrat in his political views,
but takes only a good citizen's interest in public matters and has never
sought preferment of an official nature.
Charles H. Herring. The career of Charles H. Herring, of Elwood,
furnishes an example of the truth of the fact that industry, perseverance
and well-directed energy invariably lead to success. Content to start
business life in a humble capacity, and to work his way upward through
merit, he finds himself today in an enviable position among the business
men of this city, and his establishment, at No. 1528 Main street, where
he carries a full line of general house furnishings, receives its full share
of patronage. Mr. Herring was born at New Alhan.y, Floyd county,
Indiana, June 8, 1857, and is a son of John and Martha A. (Royse)
Herring.
The Herring family originated in Germany, from whence the pro-
genitor of the name came to the United States and settled in Pennsyl-
vania, where the paternal grandparents of Charles H. Herring spent
their lives. The maternal grandfather, Henry II. Royse. was a native
of Indiana, and lived at New Albany, where for years he was engaged
in a tinware and hardware business. He dfed at that place in his sixty-
sixth year, the father of these children : John, William, James T..
Martha A., Louise, Mary and Roxanna. John Herring, the father of
Charles H. Herring, was born at Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and was
there educated in the public schools and reared to manhood, learning the
trade of tailor. As a journeyman, he removed to New Albany, Indiana,
at an early date, and sub.sequently removed to Illinois, about 1858, where
his death occurred. Later she married again, her second husband being
James M. Moreland, of Rockville, and they had two children : James W.
and Chauncey R. Mr. and Mrs. Herring were faithful members of the
Presbyterian church. Charles' H. Herring was their only child.
Charles H. Herring resided in New Albany, Indiana, until he was
seven years of age, at which time he moved with the family to Rockville,
and there attended the public schools. On reaching the age of twenty
years, he went to Indianapolis, where he secured employment in a fur-
niture store, \vith which he was connected for some twenty years, becom-
ing thoroughly familiar with every detail of the business. He subse-
HISTORY OK .\[AniSOX COIXTV 497
<|ueMtly caiiU' to Elwood, where he optyied a house furnishing store for
J. T. Royse, an establishment which he managed for five years, and then
bought ;in interest in the business. Four years later he disposed of this
interest to Mr. Royse, and with his brother, Chauncey R. ^lorlan, formed
a i)artnership and opened a similar establishment. This association con-
tinued for three years and ten months, when Mr. Herring bought out
;Mr. .Morlan's interest,' and since that time has successfully conducted the
Itusiness alone. Mr. Herring's business operations have ever been hon-
orable and straightforward, and his close application, perseverance and
unabatiiig energy have enabled him to work his way steadil}' upward to
a place of affluence. He is loyal as a citizen, faithful in his friendships,
and enjoys the warm regard of all with whom he has been brought into
contact.
On December 23, 1886, Mr. Herring was united in marriage with
Mrs. Mary A. Sullivan, widow of William Sullivan, and daughter of
\'alentine and ilartha (Adams) Harlan. Mr. and -Mrs. Herring have
had no children, but by her former marriage, Mrs. Herring had a daugh-
ter, Nellie Sullivan, who married Joseph ]\Iahoney, and had two chil-
dren,— Paul, and one who died at birth. Mrs. Herring is a consistent
member of the Christian church, where she has many friends. Her
husband belongs to Quincv Lodge No. 230, F. & A. M., and Elwood
Chapter No. 109, R. A. M.", and Anderson Council No'. 69, R. & S. M. ;
to Elwood Lodge No. 368, B. P. 0. E., and to Seneca Tribe No. 113,
I. 0. R. M. His political views make him a Republican, and he has been
stanch in his support of the principles and candidates of his party,
although he has never desired personal preferment. The pleasant family
home is situated at No. 2528 South A street.
George \V. Koons. It has been the privilege of Mr. Koons to witness
practically all the developments and growth of the remarkable industrial
city of ^ladison county. Elwood. since he has lived in this vicinity for
nearly thirty years, and his family represent the early settlers in this
portion of Indiana. Mr. Koons has been identified with the Elwood
postal service for a number of years and is now assistant postmaster,
and during his official term has done much to improve and facilitate the
mail service in this city. *
George W. Koons is a native of Grant county, where he was born
February 19, 1868. His family were originally from North Carolina,
the paternal grandparents. Alfred and Mary Koons, both being born
there. Alfred Koons was a farmer by occupation, and his death occurred
near Pendleton, Indiana. In his family were the following children:
Alfred, Samuel, Elijah, John, James, Rebecca, and Eliza.
The parents of Mr. (Jeorge W. Koons were Margaret (Black) Koons.
His father, a native of North Carolina, was reared in the mountains of
Tennes-see, came from that state to southern Indiana when a young man,
settling at Brookville, following farm labor and tending stock. He sub-
sequently moved into Rush county, where he was married and where
he worked at the carpenter's trade. From there he brought his family
to Grant county, buying a small farm in the woods, and clearing and
improving it. and thus reaching a high degree of material prosperity.
His next home was in Tipton county on another farm, and in the fall of
1884 he came to Elwood and lived retired for some time. He then moved
to a farm in Duck Creek tow-nship, b\it after several years returned to
Elwood. where his death occurred in 1909, at the venerable age of eighty-
498 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
nine years. His wife, who was a native of Indiana, was the daugliter of
early settlers in Franklin county, and her father died in Missouri at a
good old age. In the Black family were the following children : Ben-
jamin, James, Rachel, ilargaret, Elizabeth, Mary, Sallie, Lucinda and
Winifred. The mother died in 1911 at the age of sevent3'-six. Both
parents were members of the Christian church. The early boyhood days
of George W. Koons were spent in Grant and Tipton counties, and he
arrived at manhood in Madison county. The district schools near the home
farm gave him his early educational advantages, and as he was about
sixteen years of age when the family located in Elwood he attended the
public schools of this city and completed his preparation for practical
work by study in the Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute. His
first regular vocation in life was as teacher, and during nine .years he
made a record of efficiency and success in that calling. He subsequently
took a clerkship in the Elwood postoffice, was then made a carrier in the
city delivery service, continuing in that capacity for four and a half
years, and in 1909 was advanced to the position of assistant postmaster,
and has since had much of the practical direction and responsibility of
this office.
On the nineteenth of August, 1891, Mr. Koons married iliss Alice
Gray, daughter of David H. and Ellen (Nutt) Gray. Mrs. Koons was
born in Union county, Indiana, and her parents were also natives of this
state and spent most of their lives on a farm just north of the city of
Elwood. Her mother died there in November, 1912, at the age of
seventy-six. Her father is still living. The three children in the Gray
family were Alice, Lorena and Dora. ^Ir. and Mrs. Koons have three
children, whose names are Howard S., Esther and Mareella. The family
worship in the Presbyterian church at Elwood, and Mr. Koons is an
elder in that society. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and
the Improved Order of Red Men and in polities is a Republican. A
public spirited citizen, one who is always ready to advance the best inter-
ests of his home community, Mr. Koons is giving further public service
as a member of the board of education. His home is at 2119 South A
street.
Charles L. Arminqton, M. D. Numbered among the able and hon
ored representatives of the medical profession in Madison county is Dr.
Charles Lee Armington, who is a scion of one of the sterling pioneer
families of the Hoosier state and who has attained to marked distinction
in the profession th^t was dignified and honored by his father. Dr.
Armington has been established in the practice of medicine and surgery
at Anderson, the thriving capital of Madison county, for nearly a quarter
of a century, has served as county coroner and held other positions of
trust, and his hold upon popular confidence and esteem is on a parity
with his high professional attainments and sterling worth of character.
Of French and English lineage on the paternal side, Dr. Armington
was born at Vevay, Switzerland county, Indiana, on the 23d of February,
1847. and he is a son of Dr. John L. and Eliza B. (Lee) Armington, the
former of whom was born at Ballston Springs, New York, and the latter
of whom was born in Pennsylvania, as was also her father, Col. Charles
W. Lee, who was a distinguished officer in tlie United States armj% in
which he was for some time a line officer of the Fifteenth Infantry:
he held the rank of colonel at the time of his death, which occurred when
he was but thirty-four years of age, and it is worthy of special note that
CHARLES L. ARMINGTON
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 499
he was a kinsraau of the distinguished officer of the Confederacy in the
Civil war, General Robert E. Lee.
Dr. John L. Arniington was a son of Benjamin Armington, who
was born in the state of Rhode Island and who was a carpenter and con-
tractor by vocation. For a period of years Benjamin Armington main-
tained his residence at Ballston Springs, New York, whence he finally
removed to Palmyra, that state, near which place he became the owner
of a farm situated opposite to Bil)Ie Hill, a place so designated by reason
of the fact that the hill was that on which Joseph Smith claimed to have
found the Jlormon bible, the "Book of Mormon." Upon this homestead
farm, three miles distant from Palmyra, Benjamin Armington died at
the venerable age of eighty years.
Dr. John L. Armington, a man of exalted integrity of character and
of fine intellectiiality, admirably fortified himself for the profession in
which he achieved unqualified success and prestige. In 1839 he was
graduated in the Louisville Medical College, at Louisville, Kentucky,
and after receiving from this institution his degree of Doctor of ^Medicine
he was engaged in the practice of his profession at V-:,'.'ay, Indiana. In
1848, he removed to Greensburg, the judicial center of Decatur county,
where he continued in successful practice until 1857, his wife, Mrs.
Eliza B. (Lee) Armington. having there passed to the life eternal in the
year 1849. Upon leaving Greensburg' Dr. Armington removed with his
family to ^linnesota and became one of the pioneer physicians and sur-
geons of that state. He remained for a time at Hastings and then re-
moved to Goodhue county, where he purchased a farm, near Cannon
Falls, and where he continued in the practice of his profession, in con-
nection with the development and improvement of his farm, until he
responded to the call of higher duty and entered the service of the
Union, the integritj' of which was jeopardized by armed rebellion on
the part of the southern states. He enlisted in the Second Minnesot.i
Volunteer Infantry, of which he became assistant surgeon, and with
which he saw arduous and varied service. He was with his command
in numerous engagements, including those of Perryville, Crab Orchard
and Murfreesboro, and finally he was appointed a member of the board
of examining phj'sieians for the Armj- of the Cumberland, with assign-
ment to duty with General Steadman's brigade. His service in this
capacity had to do with the granting of discharges to soldiers. Later ne
was appointed physician at Hospital No. I at Gallatin, Tennessee, and
finally he was transferred to the Army of the West, in which he served
as surgeon of the Second Cavalry, under General Polk, until the close
of the war. At the battle of Perryville his servant was killed and his
horse was shot beneath him. He lived up to the full tension of the great
conflict for the preservation of the Union and his record in this con-
nection gives lasting honor to his name and memory. After the close
of the war he returned to his home in Minnesota and in 1896 he removed
from his farm to Northville, that state, where he was engaged in the
practice of his profession, as was he later at Minneapolis and Marshall.
He passed the closing years of his long and useful life at Minneapolis,
where he was summoned to eternal rest at the venerable age of eighty-
seven years. He served as surgeon of his post of the Grand Army of
the Republic, was a Knights Templars Mason and was prominently affil-
iated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, as was he also with
various professional associations. He was one of the founders of the
State Medical Society of Indiana. Of the four children of Dr. John
500 HISTORY OF MADISOX COUNTY
L. and Eliza B. (Lee) Armin^on the youngest and only survivor is he
whose name initiates this review.
Dr. Charles L. Armington was reared to the age of ten years in
Indiana, to whose public schools he is indebted for his early educational
discipline, and he then accompanied his honored father to Minnesota,
where he finally supplemented his academic education by a select course
in the Minnesota Central University, at Hastings, Minn. In 1865 he
was matriculated in the literary department of the celebrated University
of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, and after a year of study in this depart-
ment he devoted a similar period to following the curriculum of the law
department. He then complied with the wishes of his father, who
desired him to prepare for the medical profession. Accordingly in 1867,
he entered the medical department of the same university, where he con-
tinued his technical studies for two years. He then returned to Min-
nesota and was associated with his father in the practice of medicine
at Northville until 1871, when he returned to his native state, having
received appointment to the position of assistant physician in the Indiana
Hospital for the Insane, at Indianapolis. After acceptably filling this
position for three years he resigned and .turned to Alinnesota. There
he was engaged in general practice in the city of Minneapolis until 1876,
when he came again to Indiana and established himself in practice in its
capital city, Indianapolis, where he remained until 1879, when he came
to ^ladison county and established his home and professional head-
quarters at Chesterfield, where he gained unequivocal precedence and
definite success. To fortify himself more fully for the work of his chosen
calling he finally entered the Central College of Physicians and Surgeons,
at Indianapolis, and in this institution he was graduated in 1886, with
the degree of Doctor of Medicine and as valedictorian of his class.
Thereafter he continued in practice at Chesterfield until 1891, when he
removed to the city of Anderson, where he iias been engaged in success-
ful general practice during the long intervening years and where he
has gained precedence as one of the popular and essentially representative
physicians and surgeons of this section of his native commonwealth.
He has been indefatigable and self-abnegating in the work of relieving
human suffering and distress and it may consistently be said that in his
home county his circle of friends is coincident with that of his acquaint-
ances. He was appointed county coroner to fill out the unexpired term
of the late Dr. William Hunt and thereafter he was twice chosen the
incumbent of this ofiice by popular election, as candidate on the Demo-
cratic ticket. He has also served with marked earnestness and effective-
ness as city physician and as phj-sician to the Madison County Orphans'
Home. The Doctor is an appreciative member of the Indiana State Med-
ical Society, besides which he holds membership in the American Medical
Association. In the Masonic fraternity he. is affiliated with Roper Com-
mandery, Knights Templar, in the city of Indianapolis, and he also
holds membership in the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, the
Knights of Pythias, and the Improved Order of Red ]Men. As a citizen
he is distinctively loyal and public-spirited and in politics he accords
staunch allegiance to the Democratic party. Both he and his wife hold
membership in the Christian church, and their attractive home, at the
corner of Prospect street and Central avenue, is known for its generous
and refined hospitality.
In the year 1873, at Bloomington, Illinois, was celebrated the mar-
riage of Dr. Armington to Miss Emma Taffe, daughter of the late Hanni-
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 501
bal Tatfe, who was long a prominent and honored citizen of Indianapolis,
Indiana. Of the three children of this union the eldest is Florence L.,
who is the wife of Dr. Samuel C. Wilson, a prominent physician of
Anderson; Katherine E. is the wife of Wilbur C. Roush, of Anderson;
and Dr. John C. is an able representative of the third generation of the
family in the medical profession. He is engaged in successful practice
in the city of Anderson and is well upholding the prestige of the honored
name which he bears.
Frank M. Greathouse. The leading clothing merchant of Elwood,
ilr. Greathouse, became a resident of what was then a small town more
than twenty-six years ago, and began his career as clerk in one of the
local stores. He has advanced himself through his own ability and by
persistent application of industry and good judgment and now enjoys
a prosperous position second to none among the larger business men of
this city.
Frank M. Greathouse was born in Hillsboro, Ohio, August 16, 1859,
a sou of John and Carolina (Van Winkle) Greathouse, both of whom
were natives of Ohio. The paternal grandparents were Isaac and Cath-
erine Greathouse, who were natives of Virginia, and representatives of a
pioneer family in the early days of the Ohio Valley. The paternal
grandparents became early settlers in Highland county, Ohio, where thpy
died at a good old age, the former at the age of ninety-two. In their
family were the following children : John, Thomas, Isaac, Addison,
Mary J., Johanna and Julia. On the mother's side the grandparents
of the Elwood business man were Daniel and Eve (Giddings) Van
Winkle, who were early residents in Cincinnati, Ohio, and subsequently
moved to Highland county. Ohio. The grandfather was a farmer, and
was also employed by the government as a mail carrier. He died when
well along in years, and in the large family of the Van Winkles were the
following children: Mary A., Lewis, William R., James M., Carolina
and Peter W.
John Greathouse, the father, was reared in Highland county, Ohio,
and became a merchant and farmer. In Highland county he improved
a farm and partly reared his family on that place. Subsequently he
moved to Hamilton county, Indiana, in 1865, settling at Noblesville,
where he continued his occupation as a farmer until 1870, at which date
he took his family out west to Lincoln, Nebraska, where his death
occurred in 1872, and where his remains now rest. He was fifty-nine
years of age at the time of his death. His widow brought her family
back to Ohio, and settled near New Vienna, where her death occurred in
1878 at the age of seventy-one. She, as also her husband, was a member
of the ^lethodist faith. The father took an active part in politics and
was an influential Republican. The four children in the family are
named as follows: Lewis C, now deceased: Frank M., of Elwood; Mary
S., who died in early childhood; and John, who lives at New Vienna,
Ohio.
]Mr. Frank M. Greathouse spent his early boyhood days in Ohio,
where he attained his early schooling, and in 1865 came to Indiana, and
then in 1870 to Lincoln. Nebraska, and at the return of the family to
Ohio, grew to manhood in that state. He was reared on a farm, had
district school education, and subsequently attended town schools for
a time. His occupation up to the age of twenty-five was farming, and
in 1886 he came to Elwoocl a young man without capital, and began his
502 HISTOEr OF MADISON COUNTY
career as a clerk in one of the stores in this then small town. In 1902
he opened his own stock of clothing, and since then has conduct'- d a
very prosperous business and now has a beautiful store, with a large
stock of goods and with a patronage which is drawn from the best class
of custom in this city and vicinity.
On May 9, 1891, he married Miss Roxey Brown, daughter of Rudolph
and Martha (Wiggins) Brown. Mrs. Greathouse was born in Madison
county, and her father and mother were both natives of this state. Her
father died in 1896 at the age of sixty-tive and her mother died at the
home of Mrs. Greathouse in Elwood, January 1, 1913, in the eighty-
third year of her life. There was a large family of children, and the
three now living are : Mrs. Frank Greathouse ; Mrs. George Dice of
Tipton, and Frank Brown of Frankfort. Mr. Greathouse, among other
evidences of his prosperity, owns some farming interests in Ohio. He
is affiliated with Quincy Lodge No. 230, A. F. & A. M., and also with the
order of Elks and the Maccabees. In politics he is a loyal Republican.
Fred B. Foenshell. Now editor and manager of the Elwood Call-
Leader, Mr. Fornshell is a j'oung and enterprising newspaper man, and
has proved himself a worthy successor of his father in the work of build-
ing up and conducting a first-class newspaper. He was born at Van
Wert, Ohio, March 14, 1885, and is the only son and child of Elmer E.
and Emma (Conover) Fornshell.
His father, who was reared and educated at Camden, Ohio, first
learned the tinner's trade under his father, and followed that occupa-
tion for twenty-five years. He then entered the field of journalism,
being associated with the two leading Cincinnati papers for a time, and
also had experience in Toledo, as society and local editor for the Toledo
Commercial. That experience as a newspaper man in Toledo was en-
livened and made profitable by association with Brand Whitlock, the
versatile journalist, writer, publicist and present mayor of Toledo.
When gas was discovered at Elwood and this town began advancing
as an industrial center, Mr. E. E. Fornshell came here in October, 1890,
while Daniel G. Reid and William B. Leeds were organizing the Ameri-
can Tin Plate Company, the only plant of its kind in the United States
at that time. These gentlemen induced Mr. Fornshell to establish a
Republican newspaper m the town, and that was the beginning of the
Elwood Leader. In 1895 it was consolidated with the Call and has since
been known as the Elwood Call-Leader. He was the active manager of
this paper for a number of years, until his appointment to the Elwood
postoffice, and still retains a considerable share in the enterprise.
Mr. E. E. Fornshell is a communicant of the Universalist faith, while
his wife is a Presbyterian. His parents, the grandparents of Mr. Fred
B., were Benjamin and Amanda (Bennett) Fornshell, the former still
living and engaged in the hardware business at Camden. Ohio. The
paternal grandfather was a soldier in the Civil war. Of the three chil-
dren Elmer E. was the oldest and the others are Glenn B. and Effie.
Mr. Fred B. Fornshell was about six years of age when the family
moved to Elwood. so that this city has been his home nearly all of his
conscious experience. As a boy he attended the common schools, and
after leaving the high school he entered the great plant of the American
Tin Plate Company, this subsequently becoming a subsidiary of the
United States Steel Corporation. He was a clerk in the tin plate plant
for seven vears. and then entered the Call-Leader office at the time of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 503
his father's appointment as postmaster. He has since been connected
with this paper, and as editor and manager and owner of a portion of the
stock has given capable direction to the policy and the news value of
the journal.
On the 16th of September, 1908, Mr. Fornshell married Miss Lola
B. Callaway, daughter of John \V. and Elizabeth (Cochran) Callaway.
Mrs. Fornshell is a native of Elwood, where her parents were also born.
Mr. John W. Callaway is a banker, farmer and stockman and one of the
best known residents in this portion of Madison county. The three chil-
dren now living in the Callaway family are Arthur B., Charles A., and
Lola B. Mrs. Fornshell is a member of the Christian church, while her
husband is a Presbvterian. He is affiliated with Quincy Lodge No. 230
A. F. & A. il. and with Elwood Lodge No. 368 of the Order of Elks. In
politics he is a Republican.
Elmer Ellsworth Fornshell. As postmaster of Elwood since 1905
Mr. Fornshell has performed a large amount of useful public service
for his home city, and has managed the affairs of his office to the best
advantage and convenience of the citizens. But the accomplishments
for whicli he is best known and by which his name is most closely identi-
fied with the city of Elwood were his enterprise in establishing the
Leader, and his subsequent connection with that and the combination
paper now known as the Call-Leader. Mr. Fornshell has been in the
newspaper business for many years and has a special record of success in
establishing and putting newly organized papers upon a sound financial
basis. He is also active in various business and financial organizations
of Elwood.
Elmer Ellsworth Fornshell was born at Camden. Ohio. Jul.v 2. 1861,
a son of Benjamin and Amanda (Bennett) Fornshell. The family were
originally from Pennsylvania where the paternal grandparents, Ben-
jamin and Cecelia (Frye) Fornshell were both born. The paternal
grandfather was bj' occupation a tin and copper smith, and during the
years before the war was one of the strong abolitionists in his com-
munity. He died when ninety-two years of age. The children in hia
family were "William. Thomas, Pomeroy, Benjamin, Matilda, and Belle.
The maternal grandfather was Fred Bennett, who married a Miss
Sutton. Tlie former was a native of Indiana and the latter of Kentucky,
and they were among the early settlers of Lebanon. Indiana, where the
maternal grandfather owned a large tract of land. He lived to be
seventy and his wife sixty-two years of age. Their nine children were
Nelson, Smith, John, Harvey, Amanda, Lueinda, Mary, Ann, and Eliza
Bennett.
Benjamin Fornshell. the father, was born at Camden, Ohio, while
his wife was a native of near Lebanon, Indiana. Of their five children
three are now living, namely : Elmer E., and Miss Effie and Glen, both of
Camden, Ohio. The father, who was reared at Camden, followed the
same occupation as his father, that of tin and copper smith, and made
that the source of his prosperity for sixty years, all of this time being
spent at Camden. His wife died on Thanksgiving Day of 1901 at the
age of sixty-two. During the Civil war, he entered the Union service,
and was in the ranks for more than a year, being a corporal in his
companj'. The parents were both Universalists in religious faith.
Mr. E. E. Fornshell spent his youth at Camden, where he was
equipped for life by attendance in the public schools, and also learned
504 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the tinning trade under the direction of his father. A mechanical trade,
however, was not in the line of his best talents or inclinations, and in
1881 he went to Cincinnati and became a reporter ou the Cincinnati
Gazette, and later with the Enquirer for a short time. With this expe-
rience on a metropolitan journal, he went to Lima, where he established
a daily edition of the weekly Democrat, and soon afterwards to Van
Wert, where he likewise brought out a daily edition for the Bulletin.
His next enterprise in the field of journalism was at Toledo, where he
spent a little more than a year on the staff of the Morning Cawmercial.
This brought him up to the days preceding the great tarilf and sound
money campaign of 1896, and for his thoroughly proved ability as a
newspaper organizer he was sent into the Indiana Gas Belt to establish
a paper' for supporting the interests of Mr. McKinley. For that pur-
pose he located at Elwood where the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Works and
and the McBeth Lamp Chimney works had just been located. At that
time also Daniel G. Reid and W. B. Leeds were just beginning the erec-
tion of the tin plate factory. In this nascent industrial community. Mr.
Fornshell established the Leader, a weekly newspaper with which the
CaU was afterwards consolidated, under the present name of the Call-
Leader. He has since been connected with this prosperous journal, one
of the most influential newspapers in Madison county.
In politics Mr. Fornshell has been an influential Republican for a
number of years. He represented Madison county in the Indiana legis-
lature in 1897. In 1905 he was elected to the office of mayor of Elwood,
but after a short time in that office resigned in order to enter upon his
duties as postmaster, an office to which he had just been appointed and
which he has held now for eight years. Mr. Fornshell is a stock holder
in the First National Bank and the Citizens State Bank, and also in the
Elwood Trust Company. Fraternally he is a popular member of the
local lodge of Elks. His wife belongs to the Presbyterian church.
On the fifth of February, 1884, Mr. Fornshell married Miss Emma
Conover at Van Wert, Ohio, a' daughter of David and Susan (Merrill)
Conover. Mrs. Fornshell was born at Greenville, Ohio, and her parents
were natives of that state and for many years resided at Greenville,
Van Wert and at Dayton. Her father died in Van Wert, and her mother
in Tipton, Indiana. The three children in the Conover family were
Edwin, Charles and Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Fornshell have one son,
Fred B., associated in the newspaper business with his father.
Bert AN E. Sneed. Any city would do well to have more of such
progressive and public spirited merchants and citizens as ^Ir. Sneed,
the druggist and pharmacist of Elwood. Mr. Sneed began his career
with little except his brains and energies, and having once got a foot-
hold in the drug trade has continued his advantage from one position to
another, until now for a number of years he has been an independent
and fairly successful business man. Mr. Sneed represent.s the young and
aggressive element of Elwood 's citizenship, and the continued advance-
ment of the city rests upon the spirit of energy manifested by the group
of citizens among whom he is a prominent member.
Bertan E. Sneed, though born in Breckenridge. ^lissouri, January
27, 1874, represents an old family of Indiana, and presents a somewhat
unusual case of a man returning eastward to what may be regarded as his
ancestral home. His paternal grandfather was Evan Sneed, who with
his wife was a native of Pennsylvania, was a Baptist preacher and one
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 505
of the pioneers of his tlenoiiiinatiori in Indiana. It is related that during
sunie of his early service in the ministry in this state he carried a mus-
ket to protect him from the Indians. He was one of the old-fashioned
itinerant preachers who rode horse-back over the country, carrying a
little supply of clothing and sometimes food, and his bible in the saddle-
bajrs which were part of the inevitable equipment of the preacher and
doctor in those days. He finally located at Newbern, Indiana, in Bar-
tholomew county, where his death occurred at the good old age of seventy-
seven. He had a family of children who were named, William, Shad-
rech, Samuel, Perry and Callie.
The parents of the Elwood druggist were Perry and Catherine
(Wiley) Sneed, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of
Kentucky. The mother was a daughter of John Wiley, who married a
Miss Wolf. He was a blacksmith by trade and a preacher in the Univer-
salist faith. The Wiley family were among the first settlers of Bar-
tholomew county, locating there about 1835 or 1836, near Hartsville,
where John Wiley died in 1876. He was three times married and had
twenty-one children by his three wives. The father of Mr. Sneed was
reared at Hartsville, Indiana, became a blacksmith and wagon maker,
and for many years followed that honorable mechanical occupation. His
death occurred at Cowgill, ^Missouri, in 1886, when about forty years of
age. His wife passed away in 1876 at the age of twenty-nine. Their
three children were Effie, deceased, who was the wife of 0. B. Lawson;
Elzie C, of Greensburg, Indiana ; and Bertan E.
Mr. Sneed, who lost his parents when he was a little more than a
child, was reared chiefly in Breckenridge, Missouri, where he attended
the public schools, and after graduating from the high school in 1890
entered the Mis.souri Wesleyan College at Cameron, where he was one of
the popular students four years. Leaving college he began his practical
career as a clerk in a drug store at Browning, ^Missouri, and followed
the same occupation at Kirksville and Green Cit^-. In 1893 he came to
Indiana, and was located at Burner and at Osgood, being married dur-
ing his residence at the latter place. In 1902 he came to Elwood, where
he worked as pharmacist for five years. He was then in the drug business
for him.self at Odon. this state, for three years, and in October, 1910. re-
turned to Elwood, where he continued his work as pharmacist until
1912, at which time he succeeded Dr. Saylor as proprietor of the leading
drug establishment of Elwood. He keeps a fine store, placing special
emphasis upon the compounding of pure drugs and careful prescrip-
tions, and also maintains a large stock of druggists' sundries.
On April 11, 1900, Mr. Sneed married Miss Lottie McCallister,
daughter of William and Adelaide (Burroughs) McCallister. Mrs.
Sneed was born in Cincinnati, December 9. 1874, her paternal grand-
father being William McCallister, whose wife's maiden name was Val-
landingham. both of them being natives of Ohio. ^Irs. Sneed 's mother
died in her native state of Ohio in 1875, and her father now lives in
Elwood. The three children in the McCallister family were Horace.
Lottie, and one now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Sneed have a household of
three children, Charlotte, Marcia, and Ruth. Mrs. Sneed is a member
of the Presbyterian church, and he is afiSliated with the Osgood Lodge
of Masons and the Knights of Pythias. In politics he is one of the
Stanch Republicans of Elwood.
506 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Elmer A. Guy. A prospering business man of Elwood who has been
identified with this city for the past twenty years, Mr. Guy has two
first class stores for the cigar, tobacco and confectionary trade, and his
business also includes a similar establishment in the town of Tipton. He
carries on both wholesale and retail trade, and by progressive business
methods has placed himself in the front ranks of Elwood business leaders.
Elmer A. Guy was born in Walton, Cass county, Indiana, July 11,
1875. The family settled in Cass county during the pioneer period.
The founder of the family in that section of Indiana was Alfred Guy
the paternal grandfather, the maiden name of whose wife was Quinn.
This grandfather had been a soldier in the War of 1812, subsequently
came to Cass county when it was a wilderness and while the Indians
were still in possession of much of the country, and located in the
country ten miles southeast of Logansport. He went out from Indiana
as a soldier in the Mexican war, and was captain of his company, during
that brief struggle with the southern Republic. His death occurred in
Cass county, at the venerable age of eighty -seven years. His wife also
attained old age.
Their large family of children were named Andrew, William, Jo-
seph, Milton, Lavina, Hattie, Charles, Edward, Emma. The parents of
the Elwood business man were Joseph M. and Martha (Fitzer) Guy,
both of whom were born in Indiana. The father of Martha Fitzer
was William Fitzer, he and his wife being natives of Ohio, and early
settlers in Cass county, where they died at a good old age. In their
family were the following children : Mary, Sarah, Melcina, Laura,
Martha, Levi, Joshua, Henry, John, George and Jane Fitzer. Joseph M.
Guy was reared about Logansport and was a farmer near that city and
spent nearly all his life there and reared his children. His home is now
near Lewisburg, Ohio, on a farm, and he and his wife are both members
of the Christian church. The seven children in the family are named
as follows : Elmer A. of Elwood ; Lavora, wife of Frank Knight of Wal-
ton. Indiana; Harry, of Walton; Jessie, of Lewisburg, Ohio; Bertha,
wife of Claude Hammond of Logansport ; Elta. wife of W. J. Beckner of
Logansport ; and Wilda, who is married and lives at Eaton, Ohio.
Reared on his father's farm in Cass county, Elmer A. Guy during
his boyhood attended the district schools, and completed his education
in the Logansport High School and the Logansport business college.
In 1893 he came to Elwood, and became connected with the retail cigar
and tobacco trade. He subsequently enlarged his store to handle cigars,
tobacco and confectionery as a jobbing business, and still combines these
two departments of his business. He has two well stocked and well
patronized stores in Elwood and one in Tipton.
On September 13, 1898. Mr. Guy married Miss Maude E. Venard,
daughter of Stephen and Mary (Phillips) Venard. Their one son is
named Cecil S. Mrs. Guy was born at Walton and her parents were
natives of Cass county. Her mother died when about thirty-five years
of age. She was one of two children, her brother being named Warren.
Mrs. Guy's maternal grandfather was James Phillips. Mrs. Guy is a
member of the Presbyterian church of Elwood. and her husband is
popular in the fraternal orders of the citv. He has affiliations with
Quiney Lodge No. 230 F. & A. M. ; Elwood Chapter. No. 109, R. A. M.,
and is a member of ]\Iurat Shrine, Indianapolis. He also belongs to the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, with Quiney Lodge No. 200. and has
membership in Elwood Castle No. 166. Knights of Pythias, with the
I
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 507
Elvvood Lodge No. 368 of the Order of Elks, and with the Improved
Ordei' of Red Men. lu politics he is a Democrat and is a citizen who is
always ready to use his influence and efforts to advance the welfare of
Elwood.
Babtlett H. Campbell. A senior member of the law firm of Camp-
bell & Kidwell in Elvvood, Mr. Campbell is head of the best known com-
bination of legal talent in this city, and has been an active member of
the Madison county bar for more than twenty years. During this long
practice as a lawyer, he has become one of the conspicuous leaders in
political affairs and has been prominent in the councils of his party in
many capacities. Bartlett M. Campbell is a native of Madison county,
born in Richland township, April 14^ 1862, and represents the best of
citizenship and family stock through his forebears. The paternal
grandparents were of Scotch stock, as the name Campbell would indi-
cate, and they spent all their lives in England, where they died well
advanced in years. There were four children in their family. The
parents of the Elwood lawyer were John A. and Miriam B. (Trowbridge)
Campbell, the father a native of Huddersfield, England, and the mother
of Ohio. The four children in their family are named as follows : Alfred
E., of El Centro, California; Joseph B., of Winona, Indiana; Bartlett
H., of Elwood ; and Imogene, wife of Cliarles Solomon of Anderson,
where Mrs. Solomon is principal of the Washington school.
John A. Campbell, the father, came to America when about seven-
teen years of age and finally located in Blountsville, Henry county,
Indiana, where he was married. While in that county he enlisted in
Company K of the Thirty-Sixth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and though
an adopted son of America gave three years of faithful and efficient
service as a soldier for the preservation of the Union. He wa^ wounded
at the battle of Shiloh. After the war he began work as a stationary
engineer, being located first at Chesterfield and later at Anderson where
he resided during the rest of his years. He was killed in an accident at
the Paxton Planing Mill at Anderson on the first of September, 1881. At
that time he was about fifty-three years of age. He served as justice of
the peace of Anderson township for one term and he and his wife were
members of the Christian faith. His widow, who is now eighty-five years
of age was a daughter of Joseph B. and Ruhama Trowbridge, the former
a native of Virginia. Joseph B. Trowbridge was a character whose life
and achievements have a proper place in Madison county history. He
was a preacher and disciple of Alexander Campbell, the founder of what
is known as the Christian church, and himself became the founder of
the church of this denomination at Anderson. He lived to be eighty-six
years of age, while his vvife attained the great age of ninety-six. Joseph
B. Trowbridge was twice married. By his first wife he had three chil-
dren, namely. John, Lorenzo, and Daniel. By his second wife there were
the following nine children : Ann Maria ; Miriam B. ; David ; Bartlett
H., who died in the Civil war; Hannah Sparks of Muneie, Indiana;
Laura ; Joseph, of ]\Iuncie : Jasper, and James, twins.
Bartlett H. Campbell was reared from early childhood in Ander-
son, which city remained his home up to 1907, at which time he came to
Elwood. As a boy he attended the grammar schools and was graduated
from the Anderson high school in 1879. He then spent two years as a
teacher in the district school, and followed the same vocation for three
years in the Anderson City Schools. From the educational branch of
508 HISTORY OF ilADISON COUNTY
public service he was appointed in 1885 as assistant postmaster of An-
derson, under John W. Pence. During his work as assistant postmaster,
he pursued the study of law. He was in the postoffiee until November,
1888, at which time he was appointed deputy sheriff under James Eteh-
ison, and remained as deputy until 1892. Another early public service
was his election as a member of the school board during the period he
was with the postoffiee, and he continued a member of the board whUe
the first high school building was being erected in Anderson.
Early in 1892 Mr. Campbell was admitted to the bar and in the
same year was elected to the office of prosecuting attorney, serving one
term in that office which has since been considered a prize among young
attorneys as the best possible training ground for later successful prac-
tice. He continued after leaving the office of prosecuting attorney in
private practice of law at Anderson, and became a partner with Mr.
Mark B. Turner, under the firm name of Turner & Campbell. This
partnership continued until 1897 at which time Mr. Campbell entered
the firm of Goodykoontz and Ballard, his name being placed as the last
partner in the new title. After the death of Judge Goodykoontz in 1902
the firm continued as Ballard & Campbell until 1904 at which time the
partnership was dissolved.
Mr. Campbell then continued in practice alone. When Mr. John L.
Forkner was elected mayor of Anderson in 1902, he appointed Mr.
Campbell as city attorney, and he held that office for four years.
In 1907 Mr. Campbell established his office in Elwood, and has since
enjoyed a splendid practice, from this city and vicinity. Since January
1, 1910, he has served as city attorney. One of the Democratic leaders,
he served as chairman of the Democratic county committee from 1898
to 1900, was a member of the Democratic State Central Committee from
the eighth congressional district of 1900 to 1902, and was on the presi-
dential electoral ticket in the campaign of 1896. In 1912 Governor
Marshall appointed him marshal for the eighth congressional district to
collect and cfinvass the votes for presidential elector.
Mr. Campbell on July 7, 1883, married Miss Luella Wright, daughter
of James and Sarah (Hamilton) Wright. The seven children of their
marriage are named Dale J., Lena, Edith, Colin, Ralph, James, and
Marian. The son Dale J., is in the shoe business at Portland, Oregon,
and by his marriage to Edith Dowling has two children, Maxine and
James. Lena married George 0. Kennedy and they reside on a ranch
near Anderson, California. Miss Edith is a teacher in the Elwood public
schools ; CoUn died in infancy ; Ralph lives in Elwood, and by his wife
Hazel Smith has one son Jack. The son James was killed in a railroad
accident at Anderson, December 31, 1906, his death following on January
2, 1907. Marian is now ten years of age and attending school. Mrs.
Campbell was bom at Lawrenceburg. Indiana. Her parents, the father
a native of Indiana, and the mother of Philadelphia, died in Philadelphia
when she was a small child and she was reared in the family of a Mrs.
Fobes, best known in her community as Grandma Fobes. Mr. and Mrs.
Campbell are both members of the Christian church and his fraternal
affiliations connect him with Mount Moriah Lodge No. 77 A. F. & A. M.
at Anderson, with Elwood Lodge No. 368 of Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks, and with Madison Council No. 334 of the Royal Arcanum
at Anderson.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 509
Mark E. Winings. The proprietor of the undertaking parlors at
1610 Main Street in Elwood, Mr. Winnings is a young business man
whose conscientious work in his profession has been much appreciated
in Elwood, where he has been a resident for the past ten years, and has
enjoyed a progressive success in his business. He was born, reared and
spent most of his life in Indiana, and Mr. Winnings has enjoyed prob-
ably a larger share of world travel than any of his contemporaries in
business at Elwood, and his career has had many diversified and inter-
esting experiences.
He was born in Millville, Henry county, Indiana, April 22, 1878,
a son of Samuel and Mary A. Winings. The grandparents on his father's
side were Joseph and Jane (MuUin) Winings, the former a native of
Ohio and of Scotch stock, and the latter a native of Ireland. They
became early settlers in Henry county, Indiana, where the grandfather
was a farmer and where he lived to the age of sixty-five, while his wife
was seventy-two years of age at the time of her death. Their six chil-
dren were Samuel, William, Wilson, Thomas, Lemuel, Alonzo, and
Pearl. On the mother's side the grandfather was Micajah Forkner, who
married an Allen. He was born in North Carolina, while his wife was
a native of Wayne county, Indiana. Micajah Forkner was a long estab-
lished merchant at MillviUe, and for many years in partnership with his
son-in-law, Samuel Winings. His death occurred at Millville in 1880,
when he was well advanced in life. The children in this branch of the
Forkner family were Granville, William, Mary A., Mark E., Benton and
John L.
Samuel Winings, the father, was born in Ohio, while his wife was a
native of Henry county, this state. The former was brought to Henry
county at an early age, was reared on a farm five miles east of Newcastle,
attended school at Dublin, and had taken up the study of medicine when
the war came on, and he then enlisted in Company C. of the Thirty-
Sixth Indiana Infantry, under General Wm. Gross. That regiment was
a purely Henry county organization. He was in service for three years
and at the close of the war engaged in the mercantile business at Mill-
ville, where he continued for a number of years. He was also for a
time in the grain business at Ashland, and was still active in that lino of
trade at the time of his death. He died December 11, 1886, at the age
of forty-nine years. During several years he had been in the Federal
service as an internal revenue collector. The widow still survives and
now makes her home at New Castle. Both were active members of the
Christian church and for a number of years were members of the old
Flat Rock congregation of this church. The children in the family were
six in number and named as follows: Arletha, wife of John A. Geisler,
of Hagerstown, Indiana; Josie, wife of Harry Kos of Columbus, Ohio;
Horace Greeley of Indianapolis,; Walter A., of Newcastle; Arthur M.,
of Montpelier, Indiana, and Mark E., of Elwood.
Mr. Mark E. Winings spent his early boyhood at Ashland and New-
castle, Indiana, attaining most of his education in the grammar and
high schools of Newcastle. His first practical experience in business life
was in the employ of Mr. W. A. Fox in the undertaking business. This
period of preparation was interrupted by the outbreak of the Spanish-
American war in 1898, at which time he enlisted in Company G of the
One Hundred and Sixty-First Indiana Volunteers, and during his ten
months service spent three months in Cuba. He was a private throughout
his service. After the war he returned to Newcastle, and again resumed
510 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
his work with Mr. Fox. On June 1, 1900, he was appointed government
embalraer of the United States Transport MeClellan. The McClellan
was the boat which carried the senatorial investigating party to the
Philippine Islands, towards the close of President McKinley's adminis-
tration. The trip was begun at New York and after seventy-two days
en route, the McClellan arrived in the Philippines having voyaged twelve
thousand and eighty miles. It was on the arrival at Manila that the first
news was given them of the assassination of President ]\IcKinley, their
information coming from Governor-General Taft, who was then at the
head of the Philippine government. The party spent some three or four
months in the Philippine islands, visiting and inspecting all the islands
and the .principal centers. The McClellan then returned to New York
where it arrived on December 23, 1901, and remained until February
22, 1902. Mr. "Winings continued with the service when this boat again
started for the Philippines, this time carrying a passenger list chiefly
made up of two hundred and fifty school teachers bound for the Philip-
pine service. The McClellan reached Manila after a voyage of sixty-
five days, and was for some time engaged in transportation between the
Islands. It was finally sent to Hong-Kong, China, where the ship was
dry-docked and overhauled, and during that time ]Mr. Winings visited
all the important cities of China by rail. With his ship he returned to
Manila and thence to New York with a number of soldiers, arriving there
in December, 1902.
Returning to New Castle in the spring of 1903, he remained there a
few months, and on October 11, 1903, located at Elwood. Here he was
in the employ of Mr. F. B. Kramer in the undertaking business, and the
following year bought a half interest in the establishment. Then in
1905 he became sole proprietor, and has conducted the business on sub-
stantial and successful lines ever since. He owns the building in which
his business is conducted and makes that his residence.
On October 18, 1905, he married Miss Ortha C. Bolt, a daughter of
Lincoln and Anna (Young) Bolt. Mrs. Winings was born in Clinton
county, Indiana, where her parents were also natives, and where they
still reside. She has one brother, Carl. The two children of Mr. and
Mrs. Winings are Carl and Miles. Fraternally he is affiiliafed with
Quincy Lodge No. 230 A. F. & A. M. Elwood Chapter, R. A. M.;
Tipton Commandery K. T. ; and also has membership relations with the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Order of Elks, the Improved
Order of Red Men, the Knights of Pythias, and the Sons of Veterans. In
politics he is Republican.
Honorable John LaRue Foekner. As a volume of biography on
Madison county would hardly be complete without the name of John L.
Forkner, who as supervising editor of the present history is naturally
modest concerning his own life record, the publishers take upon them-
selves the responsibility for the preparation and piiblieation of the fol-
lowing sketch of a man who has been known in iladison county for nearly
fifty years, and in many important relations with tlie business and civic
life of his home city of Anderson and the county of Madison.
John LaRue Forkner was bom near the village of Millville, in Liberty
township, Henry county, Indiana, January 20, 1844. His grandfather,
Isaac Forkner, born in North Carolina in 1775, settled during the early
twenties in Indiana, at Centerville, WajTie county, from there moving to
Henry county. Previous to coming to Indiana, he had been a soldier
1
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 511
in the War of 1812, having entered the service from his native state.
Micajah Forkner, father of the Anderson citizen, v/as born in Virginia,
in 1812, and was a young boy when the family moved to Indiana. Mica-
jah Forkner married Elizabeth Allen, a daughter of Hugh and Mary
(Brooks) Allen, natives of Kentucky. She was born in 1814 and died
in 1849. Micajah Forkner, who for many years was a merchant and
farmer, died August 11, 1879, at the age of sixty-seven.
John L. Forkner was reared on a farm, attended the district schools
until 1856, when his parents went to Millville he alternated between
village school and clerking in his father's store. In 1862, at the age of
eighteen, he started out to fight the battle of life for himself. In the
general store of Lontz Brothers at Hagerstown, Indiana, he was em-
ployed as a clerk until the spring of 1863, when he found a similar em-
ployment in the store of Honorable Lafe Develin in Cambridge City.
In December, 1864, he went to Tipton, Indiana, to represent the interest
of an older brother in the mercantile establishment of Forkner & Allen,
and remained there until February, 1866. The latter date marked his
location at Anderson, where he has had his home and chief interests
ever since.
]Mr. Forkner soon after locating ^at Anderson, where he first worked
as a salesman in different stores, became interested in local politics, and
in 1868, was the successful candidate on the Democratic ticket for the
office of city clerk. He was re-elected in 1870, and served three years.
During the same time he was also deputy clerk of the Madison county
courts, under Hon. William C. Fleming, and under T. J. Fleming, until
the fall of 1872. When, in the latter year, Albert J. Ross, was elected
sheriff, John L. Forkner became his office deputy, and filled that place
for two years. In 1872 he was local editor and business manager of the
Anderson Democrat in addition to his duties as, deputy sheriff and
has been more or less connected with the Madison county press for the
past forty years as a contributor to the newspapers. In 1874 he was
nominated on the Democratic ticket, and elected county auditor, and as
his popularity showed no signs of abatement, he was re-elected in 1878.
During his last term as auditor, Mr. Forkner purchased a third
interest in the Exchange Bank of Anderson, and when he left office in
1883 he took up the duties of president of the bank. In 1892 the bank
was reorganized and made a national institution under the name of the
National Exchange Bank, in which he became cashier and remained
in that position until 1912 when he retired, a period of twenty years,
and accepted the position of secretary and treasurer of the Pennsyl-
vania Glass Companv, having been a stockholder in that company since
1891.
The early political honors already mentioned by no means exhaust
the services of. Mr. Forkner in a public capacity. In 1884 he was chair-
man of the County Democratic Central Committee, and his local leader-
ship largely contributed to the signal victory gained by his party for
Grover Cleveland, and for the state and county tickets in the campaign
of that year. In 1891 he was elected to the city council as a Democrat
from the Second Ward, overcoming a large normal majority on the other
side. While a city councilman he took an active part in securing for
Anderson an electric light and sewerage system, and also the construc-
tion of many miles of brick-paved streets. He was elected mayor of the
city of Anderson in 1902, and again in 1904, serving two terms.
He takes pride in the fact that during his incumbency the Electric
512 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Light plant and the waterworks systems were rebuilt and enlarged and
a filtering plant built that gives Anderson pure water and ample tire
protection. These utilities are not only the pride of Anderson, but are
patterns for other cities to follow and are large money earners for the
city.
Credit must also be extended to Mr. Forkner for his liberal assistance
in co-operation with other men of enterprise in taking advantage of the
situation created by the discovery of natural gas and directing these
resources to the upbuilding of a great industrial and commercial center
at Anderson. He was a member of the board of trade at the time of the
discovery, of natural gas, and contributed liberally of both time and
money in locating industries and otherwise improving the city, which up
to that time had been only a small country and county seat metropolis.
Mr. Forkner was one of the incorporators of the Citizens Natural Gas
Company, and for five years was its president. He was among the
original organizers of the Anderson Iron & Bolt Company, an important
local industry which long held the distinction of being the only manu-
facturing plant in Anderson, whose stockholders were entirely home
capitalists. This plant was sold to L. S. Taylor and others, and removed
to Louisville, Kentuckj-.
In the formative days of the l/nion Traction Company of Indiana,
Mr. Forkner was one of the men who helped to lay the foundation for
the present system. He was associated in 1897 with Hon. Charles
Henry; J. A. Van Nosdal and Ellis C. Carpenter of Anderson, and
Phillip Matter of Marion, Indiana, in the organization of the Union
Traction Company, and the construction of its electric line between
Anderson and Summitville, and also in the construction of other links
in the system. Mr. Forkner was treasurer of the company from its
organization until it consolidated with Marion and Muncie lines.
In 1892 Governor Matthews appointed John L. Forkner a trustee of
the Northern Asylum for the Insane at Logansport, and during the three
years of his service he was president of the board for two years. From
the time he cast his first vote, Mr. Forkner has always been a Democrat,
and in his home county and district has probably done as much as any
other man to promote the success of the party.
In March, 1873, Mr. Forkner married Miss Anna B. Hernly of New
Castle, Indiana. At her death in 1876 she left one child, Emjna Neff
Forkner. She married Lee C. Newsom, who during the Spanish-
American war was sergeant of Company L in the One Hundred and
Sixtieth Indiana regiment. In 1878 Mr. Forkner married Miss Mary
Carson Watson, of Anderson, whose father, David H. Watson, was a
soldier in the Mexican war and at one time sheriff of the county. The
two children of his second marriage were : Wade Hampton Forkner.
who died in 1882 at the age of four years; and Nellie Grant Forkner,
who married Mr. Frank I. Remy of Anderson, who yet resides in the
city of her birth.
Mr. Forkner is a Knight Templar Mason and a member of the Elks,
and has other fraternal affiliations. In religion he holds to no particular
creed, and bestows charity, without ostentation.
While few citizens of Madison county have been more actively im-
mersed in the current activities, Mr. Forkner has also taken great
pleasure and interest in the things of the past. In connection with
honorable Byron H. Dyson, in 1897, he published "Historical Sketches
and Reminiscences of Madison County," a book of one thousand pages.
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 513
devoted to local history' and events from the organization of the county
to the present time. This book has since been one of the standard
sources of information concerning ^ladison county, and has received
many tributes and compliments from the citizens of the county, and also
many flattering press notices over the state. Mr. Forkner has always
had a high regard and admiration for the "old-timers," and it was this
admiration which prompted him to engage in the task of writing his
book. He delights in the old songs, the old stories of long ago, and has
for a number of years held the post of president of the Old Settlers
Association in ^Madison eountj'. In his private collection he probably
has more essential data concerning the history of Madison county than
any other resident. For a long time he has kept a faithful record of the
important events of the county, particularly of the death of the old
settlers, and his chronological tables have from time to time been pub-
lished in the local press. Mr. Forkner on every hand is justly regarded
as the county historian of ^ladison county. Though he had not held an
editor's chair for a number of years he has done much writing for the
local press on a great variety of subjects. John L. Forkner stands at
the present time in Madison county as one of its ablest and most honor-
able business men, is a citizen of eminent public spirit, and with personal
success has also given many returns in the form of public service to the
city and county with which he has been identified by residence for so
many years.
George W. Showers. Now filling the ofiSce of justice of the peace
in Anderson, Mr. Showers has been identified by residence and business
with Anderson and with Madison county for more than twenty years.
In business affairs he is best known as a building contractor, and has
done much substantial work as evidence of his ability in this line.
George W. Showers was bom in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania,
December 25, 1847, a son of John H. and Maria (Hicks) Showers. In
1856, when George was nine years old, the family moved from Pennsyl-
vania to Henry county, Indiana, locating at a little place known as
Meehanicsburg, Henry- county, Indiana. The father was by trade a
brick moulder and shoe maker and, besides his work for his family and
immediate community, deserves an honored memory as a soldier of the
Union. In 1862 he enlisted in Company E of the Eighth Indiana
Infantry, and served under General Grant in the siege of Vicksburg.
He died on August 16, 1863. He was taken sick at Vicksburg and died
at Jefferson Barracks Hospital, in St. Louis.
George W. Showers was reared and educated in Henry county,
attending the grammar and .high schools. During boyhood days he
assisted his father. At the age of nineteen he became a worker for wages
on a farm, but in the following year began learning the carpenter's
trade. He followed his vocation with success in other parts of the state,
and in 1890 located in Anderson. From an individual carpenter he
developed a business as a contractor, and since that time many of the
stores, shops, churches and school houses in Anderson and vicinity have
been erected under his management and contracting. He has a reputa-
tion for reliable performance of all his contracts, and is a very skillful
and thoroughly versed mechanic.
On June 8, 1871, Mr. Showers married Miss Lucinda A. Harter, a
daughter of David Harter. Their marriage has been blessed with eight
children, three surviving, Ralph W., John D. and Fred, all residents of
514 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Anderson. Mr. Showers was elected justice of the peace for the full
term of four years in 1910. He dispenses justice with an impartial and
capable hand, and has brought much dignity to his present office. Fra-
ternally he is affiliated with the Improved Order of Red Men, the United
Ancient Order of Druids, and is a demitted Mason. He is a Democrat
and filled the office of justice of the peace in Henry county from 1886
to 1890. His religious affiliations are with the 'Christian church. His
attractive and comfortable home is at 75 Bismarck street, in North
Anderson.
Ransom Bronnenbeeg. After a long period spent in agricultural
.pursuits, Ransom Bronnenberg, of Anderson township, is now actively
engaged in farming, enjoying the fruits of his years of industrious toil.
He has spent his entire life within the limits of Jladison county, where
he has borne no small part in the wonderful development that has made
this one of the garden spots of the Hoosier State, and the success that
has attended his efforts is shown in the ownership of a handsome farm
of 370 acres, located on the old State road. Mr. Bronnenberg was born
on a farm, August 1, 1848, and is a son of Frederick and Hulda (Free)
Bronnenberg. His father was one of the earliest settlers of this part of
the county, coming here from Preble county, Ohio, in 1821, and here he
spent his entire subsequent career, being enga.ged in farming and the
raising of stock. Mr. Bronnenberg was a well educated man, rose to a
high place in the esteem of his fellow-citizens, and made a gratifying
success of all of his ventures. He and his wife had a family of seven
children, of whom three are now living, namely: Ransom, Susan and
Calvin.
Ransom Bronnenberg received his education in the Chestnut Grove
schoolhouse, this being supplemented by study under the tutorage of
his father. As was the custom with farmers' sons of his day, he divided
his boyhood between the school room in the winter months and the farm
during the remainder of the year, thus improving his mind at the same
time that he was thoroughly trained in the principles of farming. He
continued to remain on the homestead up to two years ago, and from
time to time has added to its acreage, until it is now one of the most
valuable in Union township. Mr. Bronnenberg continues to direct the
operations on his land, contributing his long experience to the enthu-
siasm and energy of his sons, who are carrying on the work. In business
circles he is known as a man of shrewdness, foresight and acumen, one
who is capable of recognizing an opportunity and ready to grasp it and
to follow it up to successful termination, 1)Ut he has been strictly honor-
able in all his dealings and has never taken advantage of the misfortunes
of others. For some years he was engaged in the raising of stock, and
he has never lost his fondness for fast horses, being at the present time
the owner of a number of valuable animals.
On October 30, 1869, Mr. Bronnenberg was married in Anderson
township to Miss Sarah Seward, daughter of Irvin and Charlotte
(Harper) Seward, who came to Madison county from Rush county,
Indiana. Six children have been bom to this union, namely : Joseph,
who is assisting his father ; Minnie, who married a Mr. Isonagel and has
four children, — Velma, Helen, Robert and Evelyn ; Frederick, who mar-
ried a Miss Steward, and has two children, — Melville and Arnold;
Wesley, who lives with his parents; Sherman, in Kansas; and Ernest,
who also lives at home with liis parents. The famiW stands high in the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 515
esteem of the community and its members are widely known in the
vicinity where they have resided for so many years. Mr. Bronnen-
berg is a Spiritualist. He is a Republican in polities and was elected
trustee of his township in 1884 for two years. He is also a member of
the I. 0. 0. F. at Chesterfield.
Joseph R. Cain was long numbered among the honored merchants
of Anderson and as one who saw service in all the grades of its indus-
trial activity. He began his business connection here during the Civil
war, and at the close of his long and useful life he enjoyed the quiet
fruits of his previous industry and good management.
Joseph R. Cain, who for more than half a century was a resident of
Anderson, was born in Clinton county, Ohio, near the Butler county
line. August 12, 1831. He belonged to an old family with a distinctive
military record. His grandfather was John Cain, who was born in one
of the Carolinas in 1760, and when seventeen years of age he enlisted
in the Patriot army of the colonists as a soldier against the aggressions
of the mother county. His son, John H. Cain, the father of Joseph R.,
was born in South Carolina, became a tanner by trade, which business
he followed for many years, and later in life moved to Indiana and located
in Wayne county. The maiden name of his wife was Katherine Richards,
and they had two children, Joseph R. and William.
Joseph R. Cain obtained his early education in the village schools
and afterward attended the Wayne county academy, also spending one
term as a student in the Newcastle Academy of Henry county, Indiana.
His career from the time he left school until his retirement a few years
before his death was almost entirely devoted to his mercantile enterprise.
He earned his first money as a clerk in a dry goods store in the town of
Economy, in Wayne county, and during his three years, there laid a
solid foundation for his subsequent business career. Going to Indian-
apolis, he became a clerk for the W. S. T. Morton & Coffin Dry Goods
Company, and whjle in their store was engaged to go to Anderson and
take charge of the new branch of the establishment opened in this city.
It was in this way that he became a resident of Anderson, and he never
left the city during the subsequent fifty years of his life. In partner-
ship with T. N. Stillwell, he engaged in busines under the name of the
New York Store, its stock consisting of dry goods, clothing, boots and
shoes. This store was continued until 1870, and during that time the
partners built a business block on Main street, at a cost of $15,000, one
of the conspicuous landmarks in the business district of the titne. The
stock of the old store was then moved into the new building, and the
business was conducted with ever increasing prosperity for a number
of years. But finally Mr. Cain sold his interest to W. S. T. Morton &
Company, and then for some time was connected with the establishment
of Murphy-Johnston & Company, in what was known as the India;napolis
Wholesale Dry Goods Store. After retiring from his active career as a
merchant Mr. Cain invested in two excellent farms, comprising in all
two hundred and thirty-seven acres of land, and both are well improved
and situated in Madison county. The passing away of this honored and
well known citizen of Anderson occurred in April, 1913, at his home it
917 West Sixth street, where his family have their residence.
In 1867 he was married to Miss Anna Nye, of Richmond, Indiana.
She died four years later, leaving two children, one of whom is also
deceased and the other, Winifred, is at home. In January, 1876, Mr.
516 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Cain married Mrs. Cassandra Mitchell, who was bom in Indiana, a daugh-
ter of WilUam Lowes. Mr. Cain had fraternal relations with Anderson
Lodge, No. 131, I. 0. 0. F.
George W. Hupp. Now retired after a long and successful career,
Mr. Hupp represents the earlier business activities of what is now the
city of Elwood. He became a merchant in the center of iladison county
fifty years ago, when the place was knownx as Quincy and was only a
small rural trading point. Twenty-five years passed before the dis-
covery of natural gas and the consequent boom which raised this town
to the rank of one of the leading industrial centers of eastern Indiana.
Through all this time Mr. Hupp was actively identified with the mer-
cantile enterprise and continued a business man for some ten or fiPteen
years afterwards. His has been an honorable, active and prosperous
career, and few citizens of iladison county so well deserve recognition
for their achievements as Mr. George W. Hupp.
Born in Shenandoah county, Virginia, near Newmarket, December 3,
1834, Mr. Hupp is now approaching his eightieth year, and in his own
long life is typical of the hardy and long-lived stock which has been
characteristic of his family on both sides for generations. The family
belong to the thrifty German stock which settled in Virginia during the
eighteenth century. The paternal grandfather of George W. Hupp
was Balsar Hupp, who was a farmer by occupation and spent his life
in Shenandoah county. On the mother's side the grandfather was Jacob
Kipps, the original spelling of which name was Gipps. The day of his
funeral was the day set apart for him to make out his pension papers
as a Mexican war veteran. His wife was Elizabeth (Virkle) Kipps.
Both were of German descent and natives of Virginia, and he followed
the occupation of farmer. The youngest sister of George W. Hupp now
resides on the old Kipps farm in Shenandoah county, Virginia. Jacob
Kipps and his oldest son were soldiers in the war of 1812. All his
brothers and sisters, except two, preceded him to the grave, and he
attained the age of more than four-score years. There were nine children
in the Kipps family.
Samuel D. and Mary (Kipps) Hupp, the parents of George TV., were
born in Virginia, and their eleven children were as follows : Sallie, who
died at the age of eighty-eight, and was the wife of Mr. Knupp ; Joseph,
who lives near Newmarket at the age of eighty-four; Andrew, deceased;
Elizabeth, deceased, who was the wife of Mr. Schaefer; George W. of
Elwood; Harry, whose death was the first to break the home circle;
Samuel, deceased ; Catherine, who is single and resides near Mount
Jackson, Virginia ; Michael, who also lives near Mount Jackson ; Jacob,
who lives on the old home farm near Newmarket, and Mary, wife of
William dinger, a resident near Newmarket. The father of this family
was reared in Shenandoah county, where he was born May 16, 1804,
spent his active years as a farmer and died there May 22, 1884, at the
age of eighty years and six days. At the time of his death he had thirty-
three grandchildren. His wife died four years later at the age of
seventy-eight. Both were H'embers of the Lutheran church.
George W. Hupp was reared on the old home farm in Shenandoah
county, up to the age of eighteen years, and as a boy he attended the old
field school, as the common schools were popularly called in Virginia.
At the age of eighteen he began learning the tinsmith's trade at .New-
market, where he was employed by Jacob Summers, and served a full
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 517
apprenticeship of three years. After that he was actively engaged in
his trade for a period of twenty-eight years.
In 1895 Mr. Hupp came west and located at Middletown, Indiana,
and on May 26, 1862, came to Elwood, which has been his place of resi-
dence now for more than half a century. He followed his trade at
Elwood for a number of years, and finally engaged in business for him-
self. For thirty years he was one of the prospering and enterprising
merchants, and from a beginning in which he had a small stock, he added
stoves, building material, and general hardware, and built up an estab-
lishment which was a credit to the entire section of the county. On
retiring from the hardware business, Mr. Hupp opened an insurance
office, and did business in that line for eleven years. Since then he has
lived retired. During his long and successful career he has accumulated
much pi-operty, invested chiefly in residence property, numbering some
twenty-two in Elwood, and his time and attention are now engaged in
looking after this estate. He was in debt when he first came to Elwood,
the result of a worthless partner.
On j\Iay 10, 1867, Mr. Hupp married Miss Isabel Stokes, daughter of
Jesse and Elizabeth Stokes. Mrs. Stokes was born in Butler county,
Ohio, where her parents were natives, and came in 1862 to Indiana,
locating at Elwood, where they both died. The eight children com-
prising the family of ^Ir. Hupp and wife are named : Charles C, Wil-
liam A., Lola, Samuel S., Joab, Frederick, Alley and Maude. Charles,
Joab and Frederick died in infancy, and "William, who' married a Miss
Shaw and had two children, Fred and Drula, died in 1906. Samuel
died unmarried. October 27. 1911. Mr. and IMrs. Hupp are active mem-
bers of the Methodist church, in which he has many positions officially,
and he is affiliated with Quincy Lodge No. 200, I. 0. 0. P. He was one
of the first councilmen of the corporation of Elwood, Indiana, holding
that office for two terms, and he was the first landlord of R. L. Leeson &
Sons, the old merchants of Elwood. Mr. Hupp is a Democrat in politics
and east his first vote for President Buchanan.
Wade H. Free. Among the young Indiana men who in recent years
have been gaining recognition and have been making their influence
effective in business and political circles of the state, one whose name
has now become well known far beyond the boundaries of his home
county of Madison, is Wade H. Free, the present secretary of the state
senate. He is a popular young lawyer of Anderson, where he has spent
five or six years in general practice, and he is a native son of the county.
Wade H. Free was born in Lafayette township, Madison county, on
a farm, February 16, 1878. His father is Nathaniel A. Free, a native
of Ross county, Ohio, and one of the most prosperous farmers in Madison
county. The farm which represents his life work comprises about four
hundred and fifty acres, located in Richland and Lafayette townships,
and it is a splendid estate, both from an agricultural point of view and
as a center for fine stock, its proprietor having spent many years in study
and diligent efforts to improve his live stock— cattle, hogs and horses.
In his township community he is a man of political influence, but has
never sought office. He married Miss Lavina Kirk, whose father, Wil-
liam Kirk, was one of the pioneer stock buyers and farmers of this
county, and a most respected citizen on account of his sterling qualities.
It was on the old home farm in Lafayette township that Wade H.
Free spent his early years, and he enjoyed the rural training which is
518 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
perhaps the best equipment for a man either in business or professional
life. As a boy he attended the country schools of his neighborhood, and
subsequently entered the public schools of Anderson, finishing at the
high" school. He then became a student in the Indiana University at
Bloomington, where he was graduated in 1903, and he subsequently
took his law degree from the law department of the University of
Indiana at Indianapolis, in 1905. In the same year he was admitted to
the bar, and he opened his office for practice, obtaining his first fee at
Lapel in this county. Two years later he removed to Anderson, and
has since built up an excellent general practice.
Wade H. Free is a Democrat in politics, and for a number of years
h^s taken a lively interest in the success of his party and in the election
of his friends. He served first as secretary and later as chairman of
the Democratic Central Committee of Anderson, and has held other
positions of minor importance. In 1913 he was appointed secretary of
the state senate, and that position gives him opportunities for extended
acquaintance among all the prominent Democrats of this state, so that
his political career is likely to be watched with much interest in the
following years.
In 1911 Mr. Free was married to Miss Jane L. Armstrong, whose
former home was in Baltimore, Maryland. Fraternally Mr. Free is
affiliated with Mt. Moriah Lodge, No. 77, A. F. & A. M., and he is also
a prominent member of the Phi Kappa Phi college fraternity. His office
is at 903 Meridian street, and the family home is maintained at 331 West
Tenth street, Anderson.
WiLLARD H. Thomas, now residing on a forty acre homestead in
Stony Creek township, has given the best years of his career to the
most useful occupation that can employ the energies of man or woman,
that of teaching. He has made an excellent record as an educator, and
was for a number of years identified witii the schools of Madison county,
until he recently retired and went upon a farm.
Willard H. Thomas, who represents one of the oldest Indiana fam-
ilies, was born in Floyd county, March 25, 1872. a son of William and
Sarah (Boley) Thomas. The Thomas family originated in Virginia,
where it was settled- during the colonial period. John Thomas, the
founder of the family name and fortunes in Indiana, came out to what
was then regarded the west and located in southern Indiana, and spent
the rest of his lifetime in Harrison county. At his death he was buried
upon the old homestead, which he had entered from the government and
to which he and his children had given many years of labor in the clear-
ing and cultivation. He had a large family of children, and one of them
was William, who in turn had a son named William, the latter William
being the father of the educator above named. William Thomas, the
father, is still a resident of Harrison county. He served in Company C
of the Eighty-first Indiana Infantry, and was a soldier until incapaci-
tated from further service by ill health. He was the father of three
children, named as follows : Willard H. ; Vernette A., who graduated
from the common schools and studied in the State Normal, after which
she was a teacher for some time until her marriage to Mr. Harry Mark-
well : Edwin M., principal of the Hamilton school in Jackson to^vnship
of Madison county.
Mr. Willard H. Thomas spent his youth on a farm, and when old
enough began walking back and forth to the neighboring district schools.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 519
in which he attained his early training and was finally graduated from
the common schools. He secured a license to teach at the age of seven-
teen, and at intervals between his work as teacher he attended the Cen-
tral Normal College at Danville, Indiana, and in 1896 entered the State
Normal School, where he was graduated in 1899. Mr. Thomas possesses
a life certificate, granted by the state. He served as principal of the
Georgetown school, resigning there and after a year spent at Hunting-
burg came to Madison county in the fall of 1901. He became principal
of the Perkinsvflle school, and in all the schools where he has taught the
cause of education has prospered, and he has left his impress for good
upon hundred.s of j'oung men and women. He continued actively in
educational work until the fall of 1912, at which time he retired and
took up his residence on the farm in Stoney Creek township.
On Christmas Day of 1895 Mr. Thomas married Miss Nellie Gresham.
She was reared and educated in southern Indiana, and attained a high
school education. The three children of their marriage are named
Harold G., age thirteen; Roscoe E., age eleven; and Jessie Vernette, age
eight. The family worship in the Methodist church at Lapel, and Mr.
Thomas is secretary of Lapel Lodge No. 625, A. F. & A. M. He is also
a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and lie and his wife
have membership with the Eastern Star and with the Rebekahs. He
belongs to the Camp of the Modern Woodmen of America. In polities
he is a Democrat, though he has never taken much part in party affairs.
Lape J. Burr. Among the substantial business firms of Anderson,
Indiana, that of the Jackson-Burr Company, dealers in insurance and
real estate, holds prominent place. Established over a quarter of a cen-
tury ago, the career of the concern has been one of constant', development
in size and prominence, and its members are widely known in the com-
mercial circles of the city. Lafe J. Burr, president of the JacTison-Burr
Company, has been a resident of Anderson for more than forty years,
and during this time has so closely identified himself with its interests
as to make himself a place among the men to whom the city owes its pres-
tige. He was born at Middletown, Henry county, Indiana, December 15,
1845, his parents being Chauncey H. and Jane (Williams) Burr, natives
of Oneida county. New York, and Union county, Indiana, respectively.
Chauncey H. Burr was born on March 11, 1806, and he was a tanner
by trade, and a manufacturer of leather, lines of business that he fol-
lowed extensively for a number of years at Middletown, Indiana. He
died in his eighty-eighth year, having been identified with the commer-
cial and industrial interests of Middletown since 1829, and as justice of
the peace his service covered a continuous period of fifty years. His
wife died on November 18, 1869. In politics Mr. Burr was an old line
Whig, and upon the organization of the Republican party he transferred
his support to that faction, of which he continued an active and inter-
ested worker and member up to the time of his death.
Lafe Joseph Burr received his early education in the public school
at Middletown, Indiana, and on completing his studies became a clerk in
a general store in that place. Subsequently he went to Cincinnati, there
attending a commercial college, after which he returned to Middletown.
In ]\Iarch, 1863, he enlisted in the Union army for service in the Civil
war. becoming a member of Company A, One Hundred Thirty-seventh
Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Col. Len A. Harris, and
participating in many sanguinary engagements. While in active service
520 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
in Maryland, in 1864, Mr. Burr was captured by the eneinj-, but on the
same day the Union troops made an attack that resulted in the rescue
of their comrades. He continued to serve valiantly and faithfully until
the expiration of his service, when he received his honorable discharge
and returned to the pursuits of peace in Indiana. Not long thereafter
the young soldier entered the employ of Vanuxein & Leeds, of Richmond,
Indiana, wholesale dealers in tobacco and cigars, and remained with this
firm from 1866 to 1870. In the latter year he was married to Miss
Laura Sonnefield, of Brazil, Indiana, a daughter of Henry V. Sonne-
field, a prominent merchant of that place. After his marriage Mr. Burr
located at Middletown, Indiana, where he engaged in the tlrug business
and continued therein until 1872. He then came to Anderson, Indiana,
here engaging in the manufacture of wagon and carriage wood stock
and as a dealer in hardwood lumber, which he sold to the jobbing trade
throughout the various States of the Middle West, doing business under
the firm style of Lafe J. Burr & Company. This continued until 1886.
In 1889 Mr. Burr engaged in the insurance and real estate business
under the firm name of Jackson and Burr, the first office of this firm
being located over the Nichol & Makepeace hardware store. From that
place it was moved to the corner of Eleventh and Main streets, and there
they now have a well appointed office, where they handle a large amount
of business. They are conceded to be the leading dealers in their
especial line in the city, and both Mr. Burr, who is president, and Mr.
Jackson, who is secretary and treasurer, are men of high standing in
business circles of the city.
Mr. Burr was for twelve years a member and president of the
trustees of the Water Board of Anderson, and during his presidency'
the water works were constructed, the system now being entirely com-
plete, with a recent installation of a water filter that renders the water
absolutely pure. He was also county commissioner of Madison county
for nine years. In his politics Mr. Burr is a member of the Progressive
party and he is active in the party ranks. He is a memlier of Major
May Post, G. A. R., and his wife has long been an active member of the
Woman's Relief Corps, and is past department president of the organi-
zation of Indiana. Mr. Burr was at one time a member of all the
Masonic bodies, but is now demitted, belonging only to Mount Jloriah
Lodge No. 77, A. F. & A. M. He is prominent with its members and
has many friends in business and social circles throughout the city. The
family are members of the Presbyterian church.
Two so)is have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Burr: Claude S., born
March 6, 1871, a bright and promising boy, died on October 2, 1911. He
was managing editor of the Guthrie State Capital, the leading Repub-
lican daily of Oklahoma. Kenneth M., now chief inspector of the United
States Steel Company at Gary, Indiana, was captain of Company L,
One Hundred and Sixtieth Indiana Volunteers, and served one year in
Cuba, and as major of the Thirtieth United States Volunteers served
two years in the Philippine Islands. Both were educated at Peekskill
Military Academy, on the Hudson River, New York.
Alvin B. WiIjLiamson. Alvin B. Williamson has a well cultivated
tract of eighty acres of land in Fall Creek township, where he carries on
stock farming, and where he has reached a comfortable state of pros-
perity in his agrictiltural activities. He ranks among the best known
and most popular citizens of the township, and lias a host of good friends
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 521
in and about the community which represents his home. Born on Jan-
uarj- 14. 1876. in Madison county, he is the son of Burwell and Mary J.
(Mairifold) Williamson, both of whom are now deceased.
Burwell and Mary Williamson were born in Madison county, Indiana,
and within its confines passed their entire lives. They devoted their
lives to the farming industry, and reared a family of eight children, five
of whom are now living, — as follows : William L. is a farmer, in Green
township. Madison county : Leora E. is the wife of J. T. Ford of Pendle-
ton; Alice M. is the wife of Allen Swaiu ; Howard C. is another Green
township farmer; and Albin B., the subject of this brief review.
Alvin B. Williamson was reared on the farm that was his birthplace,
three miles west of the town of Pendleton, and when he reached a suriR-
cieiit age he entered the public schools of Pendleton and there completed
his education. His schooling was not of a comprehensive order, and
consisted of attendance at the schools of the community during the win-
ter months, while the remainder of his years up to the age of nineteen
were devoted to the work of the home place, in which he was well trained
under the direction of his father. He attended the Nobleville high
school for a time after he was nineteen, and then set himself to learn
carriage trimming, a work in which he was engaged for three years.
It was not until the marriage of Mr. Williamson in 1900 thai lie
moved his farm in Green township, where they lived until 1909, in vrhich
year they moved to Pendleton in Fall Creek township, and here he has
since been engaged in general farming and stock raising.
The wife of Mr. Williamson was in her maiden days Jliss ilary F.
France, and she was born in Noblesville, Indiana, on December 8. 1S78,
and educated in the schools of Noblesville. She is a daughter of Jason
and Lettie (Flinchman) France, well known people of that community.
Two children have been born to the Williamsons. — Thelma I., now eleven
years old. and Donna B.. aged nine years. The family are members of
the Methodist Episcopal church, and Mr. Williamson has membership
in Sicilian Lodge No. 234, Knights of Pj^hias, while his wife is a mem-
ber of the Pythian Sisters, Lodge No. 99. ^Ir. W^illiamson is a Repub-
lican, but is not one who takes any activity in political matters beyond
the dictates of good citizensliip. The family is one that has a pleasing
position in Pendleton and tlie vicinity by reason of the many excellent
qualities wiiich its members possess, and they have a host of friends
throughout the county.
Eugene L. Ford. In Green township are located many of th.' best
improved and most valuable farmsteads of Madison countv, and one of
these which is conspicuous for its improvement, for its general appear-
ance of thrift and prosperity, and for the value of the crops which are
every year produced in its field and in the barns is that of Eugene L.
Ford. Mr. Ford has spent about sixty years of his life in Madison
county, and lacks only about a year of being able to claim it as his birth-
place. He was born in Wayne county, Indiana. December 9. 1852. and
was a son of John W. and Martha A. Williamson Ford, a native of Mary-
land, was a carpenter by trade and came to Madison county in 1853.
His mother was a native of Virginia. For a number of years the father
was engaged in sawmilling and in contracting, and during his residence
in Madison county he constructed many of the school houses in Green
township, besides a large amount of other work. He and his wife were
members of the Methodist church, and thev were well known and in
522 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
fluential people. There were seven children m the family, and three
are living in 1913, Eugene L., Emily L., wife of J. M. Johnson, and
Amanda I., wife of Henry Beckner.
Eugene L. Ford spent his early life on the farm which he now owns
in Green township, and attended the same district schools which the
children of another generation attended, although in a very different
building and with very different facilities from what he t-njoyed as a
boy. He completed his education in the public schools of Pendleton.
His first regular occupation was as a carriage blacksmith in Pendleton,
and he worked at that occupation for eighteen months. He then returned
to the farm and soon afterwards was married to Miss Mary E. Taylor,
a daughter of James A. Taylor. After their marriage he engaged in
farming, and then moved to Lapel, where he was in business for stneral
years. He next bought the balance of the farm of one hundred and
sijty acres at his present location, and has given it all the energy and
judgment which he possesses in making it a productive and valuable
estate.
Mr. Ford and wife are the parents of seven children, and the three
living at the present time are Horace A., who is a farmer and who mar-
ried Ina M. Bright ; Gale A., who is a graduate of the Lapel high school,
and is now a student of music ; Olin F., who was educated in the public
schools of Lapel. Mr. Ford is affiliated with Lapel Lodge No. 625,
A. F. & A. M., being a past master of the lodge, and is also a member
of Lapel Lodge No. 386, Knights of Pythias, being past chancellor. He
is also a member of the Grand Lodge of the Masons, and has been a
delegate to the State Lodge of the Knights of Pythias. Politically he
belongs to the new party, the Progressive.
Andrew Mn^BURN. The meet reward of a well spent and active career
is an honorable retirement from labor and a season of rest in which to
enjoy the fruits of former toil. Consecutive endeavor, resolute purpose,
sound judgment and unfaltering energy bring ^success in the active affairs
of life, and when prosperity is attained these should be followed by a
period of leisure, when one may carry out his individual desires and find
pleasure in pursuing plans from which business cares had formerly with-
held him. For many years Andrew Milburn was prominently identified
with the agricultural interests of Madison county. His career was an
honorable one, in which his straightforward dealing and indefatigable
labor brought him a handsome competence that now enables him to put
aside the heavier burdens and find pleasurable recreation in his home
and among his friends.
Mr. Milburn was born on the homestead in Stony Creek township
which he now owns, June 3, 1856, a son of Isaac and Nancy (Gwinn)
Milburn, natives of West Vinginia (then Virginia). From their native
place Mr. Milburn 's parents migrated to Madison county in a wagon,
pioneer fashion, and located in Stony Creek township, where the grand-
father of the subject of this review bought one hundred and sixty acres
of land from the government, paying a dollar and a quarter an acre, and
this he deeded to his son Isaac. On his arrival here Isaac Milburn 's cash
capital consisted of two dollars and a half, and this sum he paid a
neighbor to assist him in digging a well, but from this humble start
he became one of the leading land owners of his section of the county.
He was a quiet, unassuming man and never aspired to public prominence,
but lived a clean and upright life, was greatly respected by liis neighbors,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 523
and in his death. February 12, 1901, his township lost one of its best
citizens. He and his wife had three children, of whom but the subject of
this sketch now survives.
The educational advantages of Andrew Jlilburn were somewhat
limited, being contined to three terms of three months each in the dis-
trict schools and a short attendance in a subscription school, but in later
years this has been supplemented by much observation and study, which
have made him a well educated man. He was reared on the home farm,
but at the age of fifteen years, his home life not proving congenial
because of a critical stepmother, he left the parental roof and faced the
world on his own account. Making his way to Kansas, he there found
v.ork in the farming regions at a salary of twenty dollars a month, but
with youthful irresponsibility failed to save his earnings, and when he
met the lady of his choice he was possessed of a capital of but .seventy-
five dollars. However, his optimism and self reliance were as great as
had been his free heartedness, and on April 29, 1884, he was married to
Miss Minnie Holmes, who had been bom in Nebraska June 17, 1860.
She had received a common school education, but having lost her parents
when young had, like her husband, been compelled to make her own
way. To this union there were bom thirteen children : Ella, who is the
wife of Orville McDole ; Ethel, who is deceased ; Bessie, the wife of Roy
Adams; and Willie, Cyrus, Isaac, Earl, Jessie, Bertha, Ernest, Orville,
Grace and Andrew, Jr. Of these Bertha and Ernest are twins.
After his marriage Mr. ]\Iilburn returned to Madison county, where
he took charge of his father's farm, and here he has been carrying on
operatioi'.s ever since. He is now the owner of four hundred acres, all in
a high state of cultivation, with substantial and handsome buildings and
modern improvements of all kinds. Although he left the farm in
December, 1905, and settled in his comfortable home in Lapel, ilr.
Milburn still continues to buy and sell horses and to deal in and ship
stock, and he is known as a shrewd trader and an excellent judge of
live stock of all kinds. He has ever been known for his strict integrity
and reliability in business matters, and few men are better known
in the township. His life has been one of temperance and probity, and
he is a liberal contributor to all religious and charitable movements,
being, with his family, a consistent member of the United Brethren
church. His politics are those of the Democratic party, and, while he
has not been an office seeker, he has not been indifferent to the duties of
citizenship and has served as a member of the town board of Lapel
and as treasurer of the board of trustees of his church. During his
long residence in this section he has formed a wide acquaintance and
his numerous friends testify to his popularity among all classes.
Maktin C. Norton. By various services and diversified gifts, men
contribute to the building up of a city, and it is in connection with the
opening up of the avenues of commerce and the furnishing of facilities
for the transactions of trade that Martin C. Norton has bent his energies
to the common weal. As president of the T. M. Norton Brewing Com-
pany, at Anderson, he is the directing head of one of the largest industries
of its kind in this part of Indiana, while his connection with various other
enterprises of an extensive nature has been such as to make his name
a familiar one in business circles of Madison county. Mr. Norton was
born in the city of Anderson, July 30, 1867, and has spent his entire
524 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
career here. He is the eldest son of Thomas M. and Katherine (Mc-
Carthy) Norton.
Thomas M. Norton was born in 1835, in Ireland, and was still a
lad when brought to the United States by his parents, the family settling
near Dayton, Ohio, where he passed his boyhood and youth and acquired
a good common school education. On completing his studies, he learned
the trade of carpenter, thus drifting into the contracting business, which
he followed until 1863, then moving from Dayton to Union City, Indiana,
where he became associated with Louis Williams in the ale brewing
business. In 1866 he disposed of his interests in Union City and came
to Anderson, and shortly thereafter formed a partnership with Patrick
Sullivan, thus organizing the first concern for the brewing of ale in
northern Indiana. Later Michael Cromley was admitted to member-
ship in the firm, but in 1882 Mr. Norton sold his interests to his partners
and embarked in business on his own account, thus forming the nucleus
for what was to become one of the largest industries of the city. Devot-
ing his best energies to his enterprise, Mr. Norton extended its trade
steadily and surely, and eventually was enabled to build a large brick
plant, which he equipped with the finest and most modern machinery
known to the brewing trade. He continued as the active head of this
enterprise until his death, January 26, 1907, when he had firmly estab-
lished himself as one of his adopted city's most substantial men of busi-
ness. He was survived by his widow, two daughters and two sons.
Martin C. Norton acquired a liberal education in the public and high
schools of Anderson, this being supplemented by a commercial course in
the Miami Business College, at Dayton, Ohio, and on the completion of
his studies he entered the brewery where his father thoroughly trained
him in every detail of the great business. He was later admitted to
partnership, with his brother William J. Norton, the firm then becoming
T. M. Norton & Sons, and at the time of their father's death the sons
took over the business, which they have continued to successfully con-
duct to the present time. Changes and improvements have been made in
the plant, as extended trade and newly invented machinery demanded,
but the same high standard of quality has been maintained, and the
customers secured by the older man when the enterprise was still in
its infancy have continued to do business with the firm to the present
time. Martin C. Norton has inherited much of his father's shrewdness,
acumen and good judgment, and his management of the company's
affairs has been of a nature to greatly extend its scope. In addition to
a large local trade, a large amount of the product is shipped to the
neighboring towns and villages, as well as to a number of large cities
in northern and central Indiana. Mr. Norton has interested himself
in various other ventures, and at this time is vice-president of another
of Anderson's large industries, the Anderson Foundry and Machine
Company.
In 1896 Mr. Norton was married to ^Miss Maud Kilgore, daughter of
the late James L. Kilgore, an old resident and for some years a promi-
nent business man of Anderson, who died some time ago. They have no
children. In politics a Democrat, Mr. Norton has taken an active part
in local matters, but only as a supporter of good government, and not
as an aspirant for public preferment. Fraternally, he holds membership
in the local lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. His
fine brick residence, situated at No. 1011 Jackson street, is one of the
most valuable and architecturally beautiful in thp citv of .Anderson
HISTOl.'Y OK MADISON COUNTY 525
John 'SI. Lamey. Among the-citizens of Madison county who have
won material success through the exercise of their own industry and
native talent, John M. Lamey, of Andei-son, is deserving of more than
passing mention. Compelled to face the world and make his own way
when but still a lad, ho has so perseveringly pursued the vocation that he
early chose as his life work, that today he finds himself one of the sub-
stantial men of his community, and the general esteem in which he is held
is ample evidence of the fact that his activities have been governed by a
high sense of business integrity. Mr. Lamey is a native of Anderson, a
son of James and Mary (Turney) Lamey.
James Lamey was born in County Cork, Ireland, where he grew to
young manhood. Like thou.sands of others of his native countrymen, he
early decided that better opportunities awaited him in America, and he
accordingly took passage for this country', first locating in Canada. He
subsei|iipntly came to Winchester, Indiana, where he adopted the voca-
tion of butcher, and was so engaged at the outbreak of the struggle
between the North and the South. Enlisting in the Nineteenth Regiment,
Indiana Volunteer Infantry, he served with that organization for four
years, participating in numerous hard-foucht engagements and at all
times proving himself a brave, cheerful and faithful soldier. On the com-
pletion of his term of service, he returned to his trade, and was rapidly
becoming successful in a material way when his death occurred, hastened,
no doubt, by the hardships of his army life. He left his widow with two
sons: John Jl., and Paul, the latter of whom passed away at the age of
twenty-one years.
John yi. Lamey acquired his education in the Catholic Sisters' school
and the public schools of Anderson, but left the latter at the age of four-
teen years, the death of his father making it imperative that he assist in
the support of his mother and brother. He first entered the factories at
Anderson, where he was (Miiployed for three years, and at the end of that
period learned butchering. He was only twenty-one years old when he
entered business on his own account at Anderson, but his thorough knowl-
edge of the business, his energy, his progressive ideas and his inherent
ability all contributed to the building up of a business that has continued
to grow steadily to the present time, and be is now known as one of his
section's heaviest stock buyei's and a wholesale and retail meat dealer
whose trade extends far beyond the limits of the local communities. His
subsequent career has been spent in unswerving devotion to the duties of
life, in the conduct of an honorable business and in fidelity to family and
friends, and no one is more deeerving and more en.joys the confidence
and esteem of those with whom he has been brought into contact. His
hobby may be said to be a love of fast horses and he is at present the owner
of a number of valuable animals. I\Ir. Lamey owns a valuable property
which has been made more desirable by the erection of a number of build-
ings e(|uipped with ever^- modern appliance for the conduct of his busi-
ness. Essentially a business man, he has not cared for public life, but
takes an interest in the success of the Democratic party and stanchly sup-
ports its principles and candidates.
In July, 1905. Mr. Lamey was united in marriage with Miss Esther
Langley. and three children have been born to this union : Paul, James
and Irefa.
Edw.^rd E, Thomas. A native son of Madison county and a repre-
sentative of a family whose name has been closely identified with the
526 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
development and progress of this section of the state is Mr. Thomas, and
that he has accounted well for himself and gained secure place in popular
esteem needs no further voucher than that afforded in his incumbency of
the responsible office of superintendent of the county poor farm, in the
general management of which his administration has been in every respect
faithful and efificient.
Mr. Thomas was born in Boone township, this county, on the 22nd
of February, 1858, and is a scion of the third generation of the family in
Madison county, where his paternal grandfather settled in the earlj- pio-
neer days. Mr. Thomas is a sou of Evan R. and Lorema (McMahon)
Thomas, the former of whom was born in Monroe township, this county.
Evan R. Thomas was long numbered among the most energetic and pro-
gressive agriculturists of his native county and he now resides on an at-
tractive homestead in Van Buren township, where he is living virtually
retired, after many years of earnest toil and endeavor. Of the eight chil-
dren the subject of this review was the second in order of birth, the others
being: Sarah, Mrs. Allen; Ethel, Mrs. Vinson; James; Ida, Mrs. Jones;
Minnie, Mrs. Fisher ; Cora, IMrs. Nelson ; and Bertha, Mrs. Kauffman.
The present superintendent of the poor farm of Madison county
gained his early experiences in connection with the work of the home farm
and his educational advantages were those afforded in the Tomlinson
school, in Boone township, an institution locally designated as the Dead
Dog school. In the meanwhile he contributed his quota to the work of the
home farm and he was but fourteen years of age at the time of his mother 's
death. As the next eldest of the children, Mr. Thomas early assumed
heavj' responsibilities and aided in the support of the younger members of
the family, as his father earnestly maintained the home after the death of
the loved wife and mother. Edward E. Thomas initiated his independent
career at the age of twenty-five years. He rented a farm of one hundred
and forty acres and brought his energies and specific knowledge into
effective play, with the result that he made the enterprise successful.
Finally he purchased a small tract of land, and in connection with its
cultivation he also operated a slaughter house, the products of which he
sold to the retail meat markets in the town of Summitville. Finally he
established his residence in that village, where he engaged in the handing
of farm implements and machinery. This venture likewise proved suc-
cessful under his aggressive and careful management, and his reputation
as a salesman and circumspect man of business led to his being retained
as a traveling representative of the International Harvester Company,
with which great corporation he thus continued for a period of ten years.
■ In September, 1910, the board of county commissioners of JIadison county
conferred upon him the appointment to his present responsible office, and
it is a matter of record that the affaire of the county poor farm have
been most carefully and ably managed under his effective regime, his con-
tinued retention of office constituting the best voucher for the efficiency
of his administration.
Mr. Thomas accords unwavering allegiance to the Democratic party
and he has ever taken a deep interest in all that touches the welfare of
his home county. He served two years as township assessor and he lias
ever held inviolable place in the confidence and esteem of the community
which has always represented his home. He is in charge of the county
farm of two hundred and twelve acres and also has the general supervision
of the county infirmary, the unfortunate wards of which hold him in high
esteem. The county farm is situated in Union township and is equipped
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 527
witli cXL-elleiit improvements of a permanent order, ilr. Thomas and his
family hold membership in the Christian church and arc distinctively
popular in connection with the social activities of the community.
On the 28th of September, 1882, was solemni/.ed the marriage of Mr.
Thomas to ]\Iiss Anna Bceson, who is a daughter of William G. and
p]lizabcth (Williams) Beeson, who now reside in Summitville and who
are well known and highly honored citizens of the county, where Mrs.
Beeson is one of the few representatives of the Williams family, the name
of which has been closely concerned with the history of this part of
the state. William G. Beeson was born in Wayne county, Indiana, and
is a scion of one of the staunch pioneer families of the Hoosier common-
wealth. Of the children ]\Irs. Thoiiuis was the tirst born ; Joseph is a
resident of Summitville: and Frank is deceased; he is survived by his
widow, whose maiden name was Stella Block, and by their two children,
Austin and Lou, who remain with their widowed mother at Summit-
ville. Jlrs. Thomas has proved a most able coadjutor of her husband
in directing the atfairs of the county asylum for the poor, as she is
matron of the institution and is unceasing in her attention to its affairs.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas became the parents of six children, concerning
whom brief record is made in conclusion of this review : Arlie wedded
Miss Edna Seever and they have two children, Robert and Ruth ; Idelle,
who completed the curriculum of the public schools of Summitville, re-
mains at the parental home : Clyde wedded Miss Leta ilorris, and they
have three children, Lena, Ernestine and IMaurice E. ; Chester is de-
ceased ; Rena is at the parental home ; and Elizabeth is attending the high
school at Anderson, the county seat.
James Marion Forkner. One century ago, lacking five brief years,
the Forkner family was established in Indiana, Wayne county being the
scene of settlement and for years the home of the family. From that day
to the present time men of that name have been prominently identified
with the agricultural activities of the state, and have played well their
individual parts in the praiseworthy work of advancing the reputation
of their various communities in the world of agriculture. They have
been men of the highest integrity and especially have they been dis-
tinguished by the cliaracte'r of their citizenship and by their public
service wherever and whenever there was need for them to give of
themselves for the public weal. He whose name introduces this neces-
sarily brief biographical review. James Marion Forkner, has been not
a wliit less prominent in his activities than have others of the name, and
he stands forth today among the substantial and dependable men of
his city and country, marked by* the high order of his citizenship as
well as by the many sturdy traits of character that have contributed
to his popularity and success.
James Marion Forkner was born on August 15, 1849, in Richland
township, and is the son of ]\Iadison and Charlotte (Blacklidge) Forkner.
]Mr. Forkner represents the fourth generation of the family privileged to
claim American birth, and his great-great-grandfather, William Forkner,
was born in Wales. He migrated to America in early life, coming to
these shores just prior to the Revolutionary war, and settling in what is
now Surrey county. North Carolina. There he died in about the year
1808. and it is worthy of mention that a copy of his last will and testament
is now ill the hands of John L. Forkner, the editor of this historical and
biographical work. This interesting document bears the date February,
528 HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY
1807, and the instrument conveyed to his heirs his entire property, repre-
sented largely by slaves and land.
The son of this worthy patriot was Isaac Forkner, who was the great-
grandfather of the subject. He was born in North Carolina in 1775,
and when the War of 1812 was iu progress he gave service throughout
its duration. For his splendid aid he was awarded by the government a
laud warrant for 160 acres of valuable Indiana land, in lieu of a pension.
Mr. Forkner settled in Wayne county in 1818, and he was one of the
earliest inhabitants of the town of Centerville, where he lived for years
and prospered in accordance with his merit. He died at Millvilie, iu
Liberty township, in 1863, when he was aged eighty-eight years, and he
was long remembered as one of the finest characters the community had
known. The eldest sou of Isaac Forkner was Jesse, who was
born in North Carolina, like his father. It may be said that he was one
of the earliest land owners in Henrj' county, this state, and he came
here with his father, settling upon land in 1822. Liberty township became
his permanent home, and he became a power in local politics early in life.
He was elected sheriff of Henry county in 1830, serving until 1833, and in
1837 he moved into Jladison county, where he passed his remaining daj's.
During his residence in Madison county he played a leading part in
the public life and activities of his district, and was county commissioner
one term, as well as having officiated in other capacities. He was a man
of splendid integrity, and was remembered as one of the most progressive
farming men the county possessed. None shared more fully iu public
esteem and approbation than he, and in addition to a fair estate, he left
the priceless heritage of a good name, well protected by him throughout
his life and passed on to his heirs without spot or blemish of his pro-
curing.
Madison Forkner was the son of Jesse Forkner, and was second in
order of birth. He in his turn became prominent in farming circles, and
was one of the most successful and prosperous men in his community.
Before he located in Henry county he married Charlotte Blacklidge, and
to them were born seven children, named as follows : Cornelius, now
deceased: James Marion, the immediate subject of this review; ^Irs.
Malinda Crone; Mrs. JIartha Lower: Alfred L., deceased; Mrs. Eliza-
l)eth T. Porter, and Hattie B. Tappan.
James ]\Iarion Forkner was born on the old Forkner farm, now owned
by Jasper Bronnenberg. As a boy he attended the Union school and
later was a student in a well known college of the state. He was well
tutored in the business of farming also, and when he was twenty-one years
old set out independently on a forty-acre farm, with a log cabin home
adorning his acreage. It is pleasing* to note here that he did not long
remain the proprietor of a "forty," nor did he continue as a dweller
in log cabins, but rather that he became the owner of one of the finest
stock farms in the state. A short time ago Mr. Forkner, wishing to retire
from active business life, sold his place for $28,000, and a brief descrip-
tion of the place to which he gave so many years of his life and which
prospered so bountifully under his care, is properly entered at this
point. Forkner Stock Farm lies some eight miles distant from Anderson,
the county seat of ]\Iadison county, and but six miles from Alexandria,
a thriving young city of about 12,000 population. A solid tract of 225
acres of rich soil comprise the place, and including a twenty acre wood-lot
and pasture. Slightly rolling, as is much of the best land of Indiana,
the place has the best possible drainage, with an abundance of shade
HISTOKV OF MADISON COUNT V 529
trees ill tile most approi)riatc places, and it boasts a fine orchard of
170 trees in bearing, with an abundance of small fruits. Three wells,
none of which has ever failed, furnish a bountiful supply of the purest
water, and a windmill adds further to the e(|uipment of the place. The
entire i)lac-e is fenced in the most approved manner, and fine graveled
roads lead to all points from the farm to the adjacent markets. A hand-
some residence, erected at on inside cost of $3,000, makes for the greater
comfort of the owners, the same having been built by JMr. Forkner in the
days when he was yet engrossed in the cares of farming and farm life,
and a modern grain barn built at a cost of $1,500 provides for the boun-
tiful crops that are annually enticed from the willing soil. Twelve other
buildings are in evidence u])oii the place, included among which are two
tenement houses, the whole representative of a cash expenditure of
several thousand dollars on the part of Mr. Forkner. Tlie chief iinlus-
try of the place in the days when ]\Ir. Forkner was its proprietor was
stock raising, with some grain production, and the annual output of the
place in stock and grain aggregated $5,000. On the whole, the place is
one of the finest in the county and state, and represents a praiseworthy
outlay of toil and money on the part of the man who founded the business
and brought it to the admirable positi(m it held when Mr. Forkner ceased
to be the owner.
In December, 1905, after Mr. Forkner sold the farm, he moved to what
is known as the Blacklidge Park, and today he is the owner of barely
si.\ty-four acres, having gradually parted with all his farm lands but that
small acreage. He has since given up all active interest in farms and
farming as an operator, and is living a retired life near the city of
Anderson, and is enjoying to the utmost the fruits of his years of
strenuous attention to business.
Mr. Forkner in early manhood married Miss Ellen Catherine Tappan,
a daughter of David D. and Elizabeth (McNear) Tappan. The mother
is still living, at the advanced age of 82. Mrs. Forkner 's sisters are 'Sirs.
J. iM. Wafkins, deceased, Mrs. Geo. Kirk and Mrs. Emma Jackson. To
this union were born three children, concerning whom, with their respec-
tive iamilies, brief mention is here incorporated. The first born, Charles
E., married Aldine ;\Iae (^nielser), and they have two children, Austin
H. and Francis E. Charles Forkner makes his home in Marshalltown,
Iowa, and has for some years been prominently known to the manufactur-
ing interests of that city. In early manhood he was for six years em-
ployed as a mail clerk, but business interests of his own have later claimed
him. Earl A. Forkner, the second born son of James Marion Forkner,
passed through the common schools of his native community and later
was a graduate of Anderson and DePauw, as well as the University of
Indiana at Bloomiiigton. He was later graduated from the University of
Michigan in the electrical engineering profession, and is now engaged
in its practice and in the manufacturing business in Marshalltown, Iowa,
although he was engaged in educational work for some years. He married
Martin J. Wolfe, and is now the business partner of his brother. Charles
E.. mentioned above. Walter M. Forkner, the third and last born of
the three children of his parents, married Etta M. Gilcrist, a native
daughter of Greenburg, Indiana, and they have two children, Marjorie
E. and Gertrude C. Walter Forkner was educated in the common schools,
and early took to farm life, in which he continued for some years. He
later he became interested in the fire insurance business and is now active
and prominent in fire and life insurance circles of Cass county. He, like
530 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
his brothers, is a man who takes a leading place in business and political
activities of his community, and all three are sturdy young men who
are a distinct credit to their honored and honorable parents, and who
are most creditably carrying forward the family name in Indiana.
Mr. Forkner, the father of these sons, is Republican in his politics,
and like all the men of his family, from the earliest representative down
to the latest, takes an intelligent and praiseworthy interest in the business
of the city and county with which he is identified. Pie was elected by
central committeemen of the county to the office of treasurer for ten or
twelve years and was road supervisor. He paid insurance premiums
policy for nineteen years in the Union Central and received $5,352. He
has long been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and his fra-
ternal relations are confined to the Independent Order of Odd P'ellows,
with which he has fraternized for some years as an active and esteemed
member. In concluding this sketch, a newspaper article relating to the
industry of Mrs. Forkner is here appended :
The recent discussion regarding a license ordinance for butter makers
suggested to Mrs. J. M. Forkner that she find how much butter she had
made and marketed. Mrs. Forkner has made and sold butter for many
years. The past fifteen years she has kept an accurate count of her
work. In that time she has made 28,441 pounds or an average of from
four to five pounds a day.
When Mr. and Mrs. Forkner lived on a farm in Richland township
there were times wlien they kept seven or eight cows. A year ago they
moved to Anderson. Since then they have kept only one or two cows.
There are some customers Mrs. Forkner has supplied with butter for
eighteen years.
In making butter Mrs. Forkner was always slow to take up with new
fangled notions. A paddle she used for nearly fifteen yeare was made
by her and preferred over manufactured paddles. This paddle was
practically worn out a couple of years ago. Mrs. Forkner gave it to her
son Charles E. Forkner, who proposes to keep it as a memento. For a
dozen years ^Irs. Forkner did her churning with a gas engine.
Adam Schuster. Anderson township can boast of some of the most
beautiful farms to be found in Madison county, and among these none
has been brought to a higher state of cultivation than the country home
of Dr. Jonas Stewart, a handsome tract of 120 acres, lying on the Aiider-
son road. This property has been brought to its present excellent 'con-
dition through the efforts of Adam Schuster, who has charge of the
operations for Dr. Stewart. Mr. Schuster has made farming his life
work, and his long experience his constant study of farming conditions,
his ready ability to adapt himself to and adopt new ideas and his
untiring perseverance have made him known as an expert in his chosen
line. He was born on a farm near Cincinnati, in Hamilton county, Ohio,
May 28, 1858, and is a son of John and Mary (Sehumberger) Schuster.
John Schuster was a native of the Fatherland, where he received
his education and was reared to manhood. He was industrious and
enterprising and, seeing no satisfactory prospects in his own country,
decided to try his fortunes in the United States. Accordingly, when
about thirty years of age, he took passage for New York, and shortly
after his landing made his way to Cincinnati, Ohio, and entered the truck
gardening business in which he continued throughoiit the remainder of
his active career. He became reasonably successful, was a well-known
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 531
aud highly esteemed citizen of his eoiuiuuiiity, and reared a family of
six ehildreii. of whom Adam is the ouly resident of iladison county.
One brother, Daniel, is living in the vicinity of Cincinnati, while three
brothers and a sister, John, George, Christopher and Kate, are all
deceased.
Adam Schuster received a public school education in the institutions
of P^ranklin county, Ohio, and was brought up an agriculturist. As soon
as he had completed his sciiooling, he entered upon his career as a tiller
of the soil, and this occupation he has continued to follow to the present
time. He assumed the management of the operations on Dr. Stewart's
property on Anderson road. Each succeeding year has seen new improve-
ments made, and the success which Mr. Schuster has attained in the
raising of crops of bumper size is a demonstration of how far the science
of farming may be perfected. He believes in the use of the most
progressive methods and high power machinery in his farm work, and
has also been successful in breeding a high grade of cattle.
In July, 189U, Jlr. Schuster was united in marriage with Miss Sarah
Johnson, whose parents came to Jladison county from Kentucky. Mr.
and ]\Irs. Schuster have had one son : George, who is attending the
Anderson schools. They are also rearing an adopted child, Freda
Schuster, who is seven years of age aud is also a school student. During
his residence in Anderson township j\lr. Schuster has made many friends
and everywhere he is recognized as a worthy representative of the best
agricultural element.
Sanford R. Moss. Located in Richland township, not far from the
city of Anderson is found Shadeland Stock farm, a property of sixty
acres from which comes some of the finest light harness horses bred in
Madison county. The proprietor of this enterprise, Sanford R. Moss,
has had a long and successful experience in his line of work, having been
trained therein as a bo3-, and his firmlj'-established reputation as a
raiser, breeder and trainer of these animals has created an active demand
for his animals in the markets of the big cities. Mr. Moss was born on his
present property, March 12, 1846, and is a son of William J. and
Elizabeth (Gordon) Moss. ,
The Moss family originated in Germany, the grandfather of San-
ford R. ]\loss, John Moss, being the founder of the family in America.
He emigrated from the Fatherland as a young man and located first in
Virginia, later moving to Ohio. William J. Moss was born in Virginia,
from whence he was taken by his parents as a small boy to Ohio,
and there received his education and grew to manhood. Seeking his
fortune, in young manhood he came to Madison county and secured a
small tract of land from the government, on which he erected a log
cabin, the first home here of himself and wife. As the years passed
and his finances permitted he added to his holdings until he had 360
acres, all under cultivation, and improved this property with sub-
stantial buildings for his cattle and grain, and a commodious aud
comfortable residence. An industrious, energetic citizen, he did not
confine his efforts to farming, but branched out into the cattle and
horse business, and also devoted some attention to milling. At the time
of his death he was one of his community's substantial men and a
citizen whose position among his fellow-men was assured. William J.
and Elizabeth (Gordon) iloss were the parents of seven children:
532 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
John, Jennie, Margaret, Sanford R., Samuel, Frederick and Belle
of whom Sanford R. and Samuel survive.
The boyhood home of Sanford R. Moss was a primitive log house,
and he was reared amid the surroundings of a newly-opened country.
Like the other children of his parents, he was given the advantages of
education as afforded by the common schools of his day and locality,
the winter terms lasting for three months, while the rest of the year
was passed by the youth in the hard, unremitting toil of clearing the
home place from the timber which almost completely covered it. Thus
he grew to manhood, being trained in the habits of honesty, industry
and thrift, and continued to remain under the parental roof until he
reached the age of twenty-seven years. Upon the death of his father
he assumed the management of the enterprises in which the elder man
had been engaged, and continued to successfully operate them for a
number of years, although at this time he devotes himself exclusively
to training and breeding light harness horses. As a breeder he has a
reputation that extends far beyond the limits of his home locality, orders
for his animals coming from far distant points all over the country.
Although Mr. Moss has reached an age when the majority of men
feel that they have earned a rest from their labors, he continues to
manage his affairs and to do his own work, a clean, healthy and
temperate life having given him a robust constitution and a mind that
is alert and responsive. He bears the reputation of being a man whose
ventures have ever been of a strictly legitimate nature, and one who,
while always ready to grasp an opportunity, has never dealt otherwise
than in an honorable manner with his fellow men.
Mr. Moss was married in 1876 to Martha Thornberg, daughter of
Thomas Thornberg who came to Madison county from Ohio and for
years was the owner and operator of a farm in Richland township.
There were six children in the Thornberg family : Richard and Calvin,
who are deceased, John, Martha, Jennie Doris and Mrs. Mary Lukens.
At the time of the death of his brother-in-law, Richard Thornberg, Mr.
Moss adopted one of the latter 's children, Thomas, when he reared, and
who is now a resident of Texas. ^Ir. ]\Ioss takes only a good citizen's
interest in affairs of a public nature, but endeavors to support good men
and progressive measures. His long residence in this community has
gained him a wide reputation and many warm friends.
Frederick Lantz. The proprietor of the largest store in Pendle-
ton, Mr. Lantz really belongs in the front rank of Madison county
merchants, and is still a young man who has attained a striking busi-
ness success at a time when most of his contemporaries are .iust begin-
ning their careers.
Frederick Lantz was born at Richmond, Indiana, Februarv 26, 1883,
a son of Lewis F. and Luella Lantz. Both parents now reside in
Milton, Wayne county, this state. The family were early settled in the
old Quaker district of Wayne county, and the name has always been
identified with integrity and the best of business principles. Frederick
Lantz received his education at Richmond, but soon after his first
lessons in life his father moved to Jlilton in the same county, where
he engaged in the dry goods business. The son. after attending the
grade schools and graduating from the Milton high school, entered his
father's store at the age of eighteen and was in active association until
1907. At that date he came to Pendleton and went into the dry goods.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 533
clothing and shoe business at this Jown. In five years' time he has built
up the largest business of the kind in the town, and has acquired a
ver.v prosperous trade both in the village and throughout the sur-
rounding country. ]\Ir. Lantz is a modern man of business, punctual
in all his affairs, keeping his enterprise up to date at every point,
insisting upon the fair and S(|uare deal and while furnishing good
service in merchandise to his customers also enjoys a fine degree of
prosperit}' for himself.
In 1906 Mr. Lantz married ^liss Elizabeth Morris. Mrs. Lantz
was born in Wayne county. Indiana, was graduated from the Milton
Hiiih school and was also a student of the Indiana State University.
They are the parents of one child, Deborah, now four years of age.
Mrs. Lantz is one of the active members of the Pendleton Friends
church. Mr. Lantz has passed through thirty-two degrees of Scottish
Rite JIasonery, is past master of his lodge at Milton, was high priest
of his chapter, and his local affiliations are with ]\Iadison Lodge, No. 44,
A. F. & A. il. and with the ^lystic Shrine at Indianapolis. Mr. Lantz
east his vote for the Republican candidate with somewhat consistent
regularity up to the campaign of 1912. but at that time joined the
Progressive party and voted accordingly.
Charles C. Studley. Among Madison county's sons who have
attained distinction in varied fields of active usefulness, none is better
known or more highly esteemed in his community than Charles C.
Studley of Lapel, who as soldier, business man, public official and
citizen has discharged ably and conscientiously eveiy obligation of life.
From the dark days of the Civil War, when he valiantly fought under
the flag of his country, to the present time, when he is numbered among
the most able and impartial justices of the peace that have upheld the
dignity of this office in Stony Creek township, his record has been
unsullied, and a sketch of his career will show that his life has at all
times been one of industry, integrity and general usefulness to his
fellow men. Judge Studley was born on a farm in Stony Creek town-
ship, Madison county, Indiana. August 2, 1843, and is a son of Datis E.
and Ruth (Casler) Studley, the former of whom died in 1872 and the
latter in 1870. Of their elffven children, ten were reared to manhood and
womanhood, three sons served in the Union army, and three sons and
two daughters still survive.
Charles C. Studley passed his boyhood and youth on the home farm,
securing his education in the common schools of Stony Creek town-
ship, which he was attending at the time of the outbreak of the struggle
betv?een the North and South. Filled with youthful patriotism, with
other school lads of his community, he enlisted in Company E, 130th
Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and was mustered into the
United States service at Kokomo. Indiana, December 2, 1863. This was
known as one of the hard-fighting regiments of the Union service
and participated in many hotly-contested engagements, including those
of the Atlanta campaign, where it was under fire for one hundred and
twenty days. In 1865, after two days of severe fighting at Nashville,
the Twenty-third Army Corps, with v.-hich the 130th was identified,
was ordered to form a conjunction ^vith General Sherman on his famous
march to the sea, and subsequently went to Fort Fisher, Fort Anderson
and Moorehead, North Carolina, then fighting its way to Raleigh. On
April 14. 1865. the Confederate general, Johnson,, surrendered, and the
534 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Union forces moved on to Charlotte, where the men of Mr. Studleys
regiment received their honorable discharge, he leaving the service with
the rank of duty sergeant, having gained promotion through fidelity
to duty and fearless participation in battle.
On returning to the occupations of peace, ilr. Studley embraced
the vocation of carpenter, at which he was working at the time of his
first marriage, in Stony Creek township, September 9, 1866, to Miss
Louisa Hauger. She died ]\lay 4, 1880, leaving four children, of whom
three are living at this time : ^ilartha J., single, a professional imrse
residing at Anderson, Indiana; Alma, who is the wife of J. B. La Boutie,
of Birmingham, Alabama ; and Nora, the wife of Lewis Medill, engaged
in the clothing business in that southern city. On February 19,
1882, Judge Studley was married to Jlatilda Cotterell, and to this
union were born three children: ilargaret, a graduate of the Lapel
High school, and now the wife of B. B. Early, manager of the Western
Union Telegraph Company, at Shelbyville, Indiana ; Charles W., engaged
as a glass blower at Robinson, Illinois, who married Maude Ward ; and
Ruth, who is single and resides at home, a clerk in a store at Lapel.
The family for many years has been identified with the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and its members have been active in religious and
charitable work. Judge Studley is a member of the Improved Order
of Red J\Ien, and as a member of Hiram G. Fisher Post No. 366, Grand
Army of the Republic, is serving as adjutant and was formerly com-
mander. By a special act of Congress, he draws a pension of twenty-
four dollars per month in appreciation of his valued services during
the Rebellion. In political matters Judge Studley was for many years
a supporter of Republican principles, but in the campaign of 1912
demonstrated his progressiveness by casting his ballot with the new so-
called "Bull Moose" party. For many years he has acted in the
capacity of justice of the peace, and the very length of his service gives
evidence of the ability with which he has discharged the duties of
his responsible office. He is well known in insurance circles as the
representative of four of the leading companies, and so well has he
managed his interests that he now enjoys the reputation of one whom
success always attends, and his connection with any enterprise is taken
as a guaranty of its stability. ^Ir. Studley did not have wealth to aid
him in the beginning of his career. His reliance has been placed in the
more substantial qualities of perseverance, untiring enterprise, resolute
purpose and commendable zeal, and his actions have ever been guided
by an honesty of purpose that none have questioned.
James D. McKenzie. Situated half a mile southwest of the town of
Lapel in Stony Creek township the rural home of James D. ilcKenzie, a
place of one hundred and twenty acres possesses all the attractive
improvements and profitable quality for which iladison county farms are
noted throughout the state. Mr. McKenzie has made farming his life
work, has given it his best energy, and not only has substantial material
fruits of his labors, but also the esteem and respect of the community
in which he has for many years resided.
James D. ^IcKenzie was born in White River township in Hamilton
county, Indiana, August 8, 1850, a son of Andrew J. and Nancy D.
(Ferguson) JIcKenzie. The father, a native of Kentucky, was reared
up to the age of fourteen in Cincinnati, Oho, and then came to Hamilton
county, where he spent the remainder of his career as a farmer. In 18o6
i
HISTOKV OF MADISON COUNTY 535
he was elected to the office of sheritj of Hainilton county, aud gave efficient
service in that capacity for one term. Besides tanning he also followed
the vocation of auctioneer, and was a well known figure in that county.
Fraternally lie was a ilasou. His death occurretl in Decemher, 1876, and
he was the father of nine children, the two now living being Andrew J.,
of ilontana, and James.
James D. McKenzie was reared on a farm in Hauiilton county, and
bad the advantages of the district schools in that vicinity. On July 29,
1871 he married Sarah R. Castor, a native of Hamilton and educated in
the public schools there. Her death occurred in 1904. On April 2, 1908,
Mr. ]\lcKenzie married for his present wife Mrs. Eva Eakin. who was born
in White River township of Hamilton county, and her maiden name was
Eva Sliepard. She attained most of her schooling in Noblesville. The
children of her first marriage are as follows: Grace, a graduate of St.
Mary of the "Woods at Terre Haute, and now the wife of Fred Lucas
of Peoria, Illinois ; and George, who man-ied Eula Bales, and lives in this
state. Mrs. McKenzie is a member of the Christian cliurch at Nobles-
ville. while ^Ir. JIcKenzie's church affiliations are with the Wesleyan
]\Iethodist. In politics he is a Republican, but has never held any official
position, and has been content to give his vote for the cause of good
government, and to lend a hand wherever possible to advance the best
interests and welfare of his home community.
Andrew J. Shetterlv. Numbered among the progressive and ener-
getic liusiness men of Lapel, Indiana, where he has been identified with
elevator interests since 1896. Andrew J. Shetterly is justly considered one
of the representative men of his native county. He is the fortunate pos-
sessor of just those qualities which are essential to success in any line of
business, and his long experience in his present venture has made him
thoroughly familiar with its every detail. He belongs to an old and
honored family of Madison county, and was born on a farm in Jackson
township, December 23, 1865, a son of George L. Shetterly.
The Shetterly family was founded in Indiana bj- two brothers, David
and Henry Shetterly, who were farmers and ministers of the Methodist
Episcopal Church. Another of the name. William H. Shetterlj', was a
prominent speaker and preaclier in Stony Creek township, where he
founded the first school and devoted himself to the cause of education and
religion. David Shetterly. the grandfather of Andrew J. Shetterly, was
born in Ohio, and came to Indiana in 1836, entering a farm from the gov-
ernment, in Jackson township, where he spent the remaining years of his
life. He had two sons and three daughters, of whom four children still
survive : George L. ; Catherine, the wife of John Finley ; Harriet, who
married William Sural ; and Elinira, the wife of Felix Leever.
George L. Shetterly was born in Ohio, and was a child when he accom-
panied his parents to Jackson township. He followed in the footstei>s of
his father and became an agriculturi.st, a vocation which he has followed
to the present time with gratifying success, and. like his father, has
devoted much of his time to the work of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
in which he has served as class leader for many years and as superin-
tendent of the Sunday school. He and his wife, who^also survives, have
had twelve children, of whom eight are still living, namely: Oliver C. ;
Catherine, who is the wife of Edward Johnson; Thomas F., a farmer
of Stony Creek township, who resides at Lapel; Amelia, the wife of 0.
P. Wise"; Abraham L. and Andrew J., twins; Cora B., who is the wife of
Vol II— n
536 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Harry Layton ; and George A., who is a glass worker and resides at
Lapel.
Andrew J. Shetterly was reared on his father's farm in Jackson town-
ship and received his education in the district schools. Early adopting
the vocation of educator, he taught school for twelve terms in Kansas,
Colorado and Indiana, but in 1896, with two of his brothers, embarked in
the milling and elevator business at Lapel, under the firm style of Shet-
terly Brothers. This venture has proved very successful anti has enjoyed a
steady and continuous growth, its trade gradually extending Ijeyond the
limits of Lapel into the surrounding country. Mr. Shetterl\- is conceded
by his associates to be a man of much more than ordinary business ability,
one who can be relied upon to fulfill his obligations, and whose integrity
has ever been unquestioned.
Mr. Shetterly was married to ^liss Lizzie Winklepleck, who wjjs born
in Nebraska. They are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, and take an active interest in its movements. Mr. Shetterly "s
fraternal connection is with Lapel Lodge, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, of which he is a charter member, being past noble grand and
a member of the Grand Lodge of the State. In polities a stalwart Repub-
lican, he served as a member of the board of trustees of Stony Creek town-
ship from 1901 to 1905, and the conscientious devotion to detail which
characterizes his business activities was brought to bear with satisfactory
results upon the duties of his office. His popularity is attested by a wide
circle of sincere friends in Lapel, and in business, social and private life
he is held in the highest esteem.
WiNFiELD Shaul. The Shaul family, which Winfield Shaul of this
review represents in this township, is one of the oldest in ^Madison county,
and the subject is the representative of the fourth generation to hold tlie
land which the founder of the family entered from the government when
the first of the name located here from the Keystone state in the earliest
days of Indiana, long prior to her statehood. The first of the name to
locate here entered land from the government, and ended his days in the
cultivation of the wilderness tract he thus acquired. His son. Orange B.,
next gave his attention to the cultivation of the place, and he in turn
handed it down to his son, George K., the father of Winfield, who was
born on the old place on November 20, 1875. So much for a brief sketch
of the earlier generations of this family.
George K. Shaul was born in Green township and was educated in the
public schools of this community. He lived a life of singular usefulness
in his native connnunity and served a number of years as a trustee of the
township. He was a prosperous farmer and a man of prominence in the
township. Fraternally he was a leader, and had membership in the
Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Red
Men. His two children were Clifford D., now superintendent of the Arti-
ficial Gas Plant in Houston, Texas, who was a graduate of the Pendle-
ton high school and the State University of Indiana, and Winfield, whose
name heads this brief sketch.
Winfield Shaul was reared on the old family home and attended the
schools of his native community. He entered upon farming life in I'cal
earnest when he had reached years of discretion, and has ever devoted
himself to that business, in which he has experienced a pleasing degree
of success and prosperity. He has a fine place of eighty acres in Section
14, and his residence is one of the most complete cement houses to be
lirsTOlJV (~»F .MADISON COUNTY 537
found ill tlu' township. It wiis built as late as 1911, ami is thoroughly
iiioiicru ;iik1 complete in all its details. The farm itself is the identical
one tliat came into the family when the Shauls settled in Madison county,
Winlicld Shaul beintr the foiirtli successive generation to take up its abode
on the farm. Mr. Shaul is a prominent Republican in his township, and
has a leading part in the activities of tlie party in his district. PVaternally
he is a member of Sieilliaii ijodge No. 284, Knights of Pythias, and also
has membership in the .Modern Woodmen of Ameri<'a, in which lie carries
a heavy insurance policy.
On .March 20, ISDG, Mr. Sliaiil was married to May Girt, who was born
in Mai'ion county, hniiana. They have three children: Oeorge L., a stu-
dent in the common schools and now aged fourteen years; Lavahan, aged
twelve, and Leoua .M.. now five years of age. The family are members of
the JMethodist Episcopal church, and have a secure position in popular
regaril in the community where they have so long been known.
W. Fr.\nk .McV.iUGii. In W. Frank MeVaugh Madison county has
one of her most promising young men, and one iu whom the public has
already shoM'ii a measure of confidence by electing him to the office of
county surveyor in November, 1912. His previous record in the engineer-
ing profession, thoug'h necessarily brief, had been sufficiently praise-
worthy to establish him as one of the coming men of the district, and
the evidence thus far amply supports the judgment of those who called
him to his present position.
Born in Huntsville, Indiana, on September 26, 1885, W. Frank
McVaugh is the son of Edward and Mary (Yerkes) McVaugh, both
of whom are now residents of Pendleton, as is their son, the subject of
this review. He is one of the four children born to his parents, aild
he was reared in and about Huntsville, in Fall Creek township, receiv-
ing his education in the Pendleton public schools and in higher institu-
tions of learning. He was graduated from the high school of Pendleton
with the class of 1903 soon after which he entered Purdue University,
where he took a three years" course in Civil Engineering. He followed
his University training with a season of emplo.yment with the Rock
Island Railroad Company in Arkansas as a member of their engineering
corps, and later was in the employ of the Kenefick, Hammond & Quigley
Construction Company in Louisiana. In 1908 he returned to Purdue
and there continued his engineering studies in that year. In 1909 he
was with the Missouri. Oklahoma & Gulf Railroad as bridge engineer,
but continued with them for a short time only. His service there was
followed by employment with the Overland Construction Company, and
he was in their employ until April, 1910, when he returned to Indiana
and entered the employ of the Big Four Railroad Company as civil
engineer, continuing in that work until December 15, 1912, his work
being confined to the Cleveland division.
In November. 1912, the election of Mr. MeVaugh to the office of
county engineer of JMadison county came, and he assumed the duties
of his office on January 1, 1913, as has already been mentioned.
ilr. MeVaugh was united in marriage in May, 1909, to Miss Hazel
V. Taylor, of Pendleton, where she was born on September 10, 1885.
She is a graduate of the Pendleton high school in the class of 1904,
and in 1906 was a student in Earlham College, later substituting in the
public schools of Pendleton on the staff of instructors. She was one
of the most popular young women of her native town, and still retains
538 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
her old place in the hearty esteem of her townspeople. One son has
been born to Mr. and Mrs. McVaugh, born on September 27, 1910, and
named William J., in honor of his father.
Mr. MeYaugh is a Democrat, but has never taken any especially
active parts in the political life of his community. Like his wife, he is
popular and prominent in the town which has represented his home
from birth, and enjoys the confidence of all.
James W. Potts. A business enterprise of Summitville which is
a reliable source of supplies in the hardware and implement line to
the greater part of Van Buren township in the store of James W.
Potts and his partner, Mr. Vinson. ^Mr. Potts has been known in
Van Buren township since childhood. He is an aggressive and able
young business man, and for a number of years followed farming in
this vicinity and in Delaware county. His practical knowledge of
agriculture has been an asset in his present business, since he knows
exactly what the agricultural conmiunity needs in the way of its
mechanical and hardware supplies, and is a business man who looks
closely after his trade and his stock, which has been the chief factor
in the success of his establishment in Summitville.
James W. Potts was born February 8, 1871, on his father's farm in
Van Buren township, about three miles southeast of Summitville, on the
Peter Flint Gravel Road. His parents were Jesse M. and Sarah A.
(Hudson) Potts. His father came to Indiana from North Carolina when
a young man, arriving in Anderson without money. He is the type of
man who made success from small beginnings. Miscellaneous work of
any honest kind afforded him his livelihood for some time until he was
married. He then rented a farm from his father-in-law, James Hudson,
and afterwards as his means increased bought eighty acres. At the time
of his death he was the owner of one hundred and forty-three acres,
and a man of substantial influence in the county. He was buried in
Mt. Pisgah cemetery in Monroe township. His children were : Martha
A., deceased; Mrs. Mary Jane Ellsworth, deceased; Lilly A. Poindexter;
James W. ; William W., who is employed on the Cincinnati Times-Star
at Cincinnati.
James W. Potts was reared on a farm. All his school associations
center about the Dageon school, in Van Buren township, which he
attended from the time he learned his letters until his education was
considered complete. When he started out for himself he rented a part
of the Hudson estate, and at the same time managed his father's farm.
Afterwards he bought seventeen acres from the Hudson place, and eon-
ducted that little farm with profit for some years. He then sold it and
moved to Deleware county, where he rented a farm of seventy acres for
two years. After that he bought back from his brother William W., the
seventeen acres of his original homestead, and has since increased his
ownership of land in this township to sixty-five acres. It is located two
and a half miles southeast from Summitville. His brother-in-law Wallace
Poindexter attends the farm. On leaving the country. Mr. Potts engaged
in business in Summitville, and in partnership with Oscar A. Vinson
bought out what has long been known as the Summitville Hardware
Company.
On August 18, 1892, Mr. Potts married Miss Ida A. Young, a daughter
of Ellison and Laura (Wideuer) Young. Five children have blessed
their marriage, namely: Two who died in infancy; Londis L., in
WILSOX CORY
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 539
high school; Jesse E., iu the fir* year of high school and James F.
Mr. Potts has fraternal affiliations with the Improved Order of Bed
Men, Neoskaleta Tribe. No. 149 : the Knights of Pythias. Gas Belt Lodge
No. 361 : the Modem Woodmen of America, Camp No. 10434 : and the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. No. 473. His church is the
Christian denomination. When he can get away from business Mr.
Potts enjoys nothing better than recreation in the woods, hunting and
fishing and such other diversions as the outdoor life affords.
Lewis F. Moblet, M. D. For twelve years in the successful practice
of his profession at SummitviUe, Dr. Mobley is one of the able doctors
in the northern part of Madison county, and has built up a splendid
practice both in and about the town of SummitviUe.
L. F. Mobley was bom August 6. 1875, in Harts%-ille. Bartholomew
county. Indiana, a son of Warren W. and Mary ^ Ryan 'Mobley. The
maternal grandfather Ryan was a physician, one of the early members
of the profession in this state, and was also a Methodist minister, an
old-time circuit rider, who exercised a beneficent influence over the larse
scope of country to which he ministered in the early days. Grand-
father John Mobley came from Baltimore. Maryland, and was an early
settler in Indiana, where he followed the quiet pursuits of farming. He
had been a soldier in the War of 1812.
Warren W. Mobley. the father, was both a farmer and a man of
exceptional scholarship. He was born in Indiana, and spent his life
on a farm near Hartville iu Bartholomew county. He and his wife
were the parents of eight children, namely : L. F. : Mrs. Elsie Day ;
Nina : Otto : Homer, deceased ; Herbert : and two that died in infancy.
Dr. Mobley as a boy attended the common schools and the town-
ship high school, and secured the means for his advancement to pro-
fessional life, largely by teaching school, an occupation which he fol-
lowed for two years. He then to<ik two years of a normal and com-
mercial course at Indianapolis. In 1898 he entered the Kentucky School
of Medicine, and was there during that year and during 19tXl-01. He
completed his medical stndies in the Indiana College of Medicine where
he was graduated M. D. in 1902. Dr. Mobley moved to SummitviUe,
April 28. 1902. and bought out the practice of C. F. Williams, M. D.,
since which time he has extended the original practice throughout Van
Buren township.
Dr. Mobley was married December 31. 1902. to Miss Louie Taylor,
of Columbus. Indiana. They have one daughter. Ethel May, in second
grade of school. The Doctor is affiliated with the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, No. 475 : the Knights of Pythias. No. 361 : the Improved
Order of Red Men. Neoskaleta Tribe No. 149 : the Modem Woodmen of
America, Camp No. 10434, and he and his wife worship in the Baptist
church. He also has membership in the iladison County. Indiana, State
Medical Society and the American iledical Association. He is the city
health officer of the town of SummitviUe. He is held in high esteem
throughout the community to which he gives his professional services.
Wilson Cory. Four miles south of the cit^- of Anderson on the
Corj- gravel road in Anderson township is located the fine farm of Wilson
Cory, one of the best country estates in Madison county. Mr. Cory has
one hundred and twenty acres of land, and for many years has been
successful as a grower of the various crops and as a stock raiser. The
conspicuous feature of his place, which has in fact made it known aU
540 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
over the south side of iladisou county is the tine barn. This is not
only a structure built and equipped according to the most modern and
approved standards of farm-building construction, but attracts attention
because of its unusual shape. The Cory barn is built in circular form,
and is a notable departure from the usual plan. It is by no means a whim
of ^Ir. Cory that he has built his barn in this manner, since by its
form it provides much more space and gives a more effective arrange-
ment than the old rectangular method of construction. Wilson Cory
was born in Madison county, ilarch 4, 1842, a son of Abner and ^lartha
(Roberts) Cory. His father was one of the early settlers of the county,
having come from North Carolina in 1832, and the land which he entered
in Andereon township was patented in a document bearing the signa-
ture of President Andrew Jackson. The father came from North Caro-
lina to Indiana. Wilson Cory as a boy attended the common schools
and spent his vacation times and mornings and evenings at work on the
farm. He continued in that way until he was married and then began
as a renter on a portion of his father's land.
On March 2, 1862, Mr. Cory married Karen H. McAllister, a daughter
of John and Louisa ( Galbraith ) McAllister. John McAllister came from
Mason county, Virginia, was a farmer and stock dealer, and lived in
Madison county nearly all his life, and was an old-time pioneer. His
parents, William and Belana (Connor) McAllister, brought him to
Adams township when he was a child of fourteen years. The father of
Mrs. Cory was known throughout this country as "Hog" John McAllister
on account of his extensive dealings in hogs. There were ten children
in the McAllister family, namely : Karen, the first wife of Wilson Cory ;
Emily Poindexter ; Carshena, deceased ; Beltana Manning ; Decatur, who
had the distinction of being the youngest Mason in Indiana, and is now
deceased; William, deceased; Mary E., the present wife of Wilson Cory;
Enos, deceased; Walter, deceased; and John, a resident of Omaha,
Nebraska. John McAllister and wife were buried twelve miles west of
Auburn.
Mr. Wilson Cory by his first marriage was the father of ten children,
who are mentioned as follows: Carey B., wife of J. H. Hardy, is the
mother of three children, Howard W., Kenneth, and Joseph, Kenneth
being deceased ; Estella M. is the wife of W. F. Roth, and has three chil-
dren ; Bertha L. is the wife of J. E. Rout, and has three children ; John
C. married Emma Reed; Martha B., married Mr. Catterson, and has
two children named Kenneth and Grace M ; Walter A. is the sixth child ;
Frank, of Los Angeles, is unmarried : Indiana R. is the wife of Mr.
Brasket, and has one child. Carmen ; Grace is deceased ; and Mary K.
is the wife of Mr. F. M. Johnson of Portland Oregon.
After the death of his first wife Mr. Wilson Cory married a sister of
his previous wife, Mary E. McAllister. The five children of this union
are Cecil, Pauline, Russell N., Dollie, and Clarence, the latter two being
deceased. Mr. Cory has been affiliated with the Masonic Order since
3866, a member of Ovid Lodge. The family worship in the Christian
church. He is an extensive traveler, and during his long and active
career has seen much of and enjoyed life in all its phases.
In politics he was formerly a Democrat, but is now a Socialist, and
has been for two years. Mrs. Cory was the first to own a red card of
the Socialist organization in this county and her daughter Cecil was the
first woman Socialist to vote the Socialist ticket in this county.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 541
Andrew F. Kaufman. A man who has been connected with many
phases of the life of Madison county during a period extending over
sixty years and who has always played his part well, is A. F. Kaufman,
now in tlie insurance Jnisiness at Sunnuitville, and also serving in the
office (if Justice of the peace. For years he has been connected with busi-
ness and farming interests in this vicinity, and although of late years he
has lived in town he is still near enough to his farm to keep an eye on
its management.
A. F. Kaufman was born in Western Virginia, &s it was known then,
but now Mason county. West Virginia, on March 1, 1844. His parents
were John and ^Martha (Hughes) Kaufman, and John Kaufman was
originally from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, his family having
been planters in the early part of the previous century. Leaving the
Shenandoah Valley John Kaufman moved to Mason county, and in
1853, came on west and found a home in Boone township of ^ladison
county. Much land in this county was still opened to settlement, and
he entered one hundred and sixty acres and proceeded to develop it and
increase his enterprise, until he was one of the most substantial farmers
in the county. Eventually he became the owner of more than five hun-
dred acres of the fine land in Boone township. There were nine children
in the fannly, two of whom are now living, Judson and A. F.
A. F. Kaufman when a small boy was a pupil in the schools of Mason
county, AVest Virginia, and was about ten years old when the family
came west and located in Madison county. He continued his education
in the local schools of this county, and while growing up worked on the
home farm. By the time he was sixteen years old he had qualified him-
self for work as teacher, and for several terms he followed that occupa-'
tion. After that he lived on the old homstead until 1892, and was well
known as a substantial farmer of the county. In 1892 he moved into
Summitville, which town has since been his home and the center of his
business affairs. For one year he was owner and conducted a sawmill in
the town. After that he took up gas fitting and machine work. In 1896
Mr. Kaufman was elected justice of the peace and has been retained in
that office ever since. He has the judicial temperament and for a time
his election to the office has been a matter of course, having no opposition,
since his services were deemed so satisfactory that he had the undivided
support of the entire community. Along with the work of his justice
office he engages in insurance and represents several of the best fire and
life companies.
In 1864, on April 5, Mr. Kaufman married Mary E. Siler. They have
been the parents of six children: Alva, married Miss Josephine Run-
yan, and their four children are Bessie, Gladys, Frank and Mary C.
Lillie M., now deceased was the wife of Thomas E. Cartwright, a promi-
nent resident of Madison county. John M., city clerk and connected with
the bank of Summitville, married Bertha Thomas, and their children are
Russell, Harry, Arthur and Iris. Charles A., who is with the glass factory
at Dunkirk, Indiana, married Stella Ernest, and they have three children :
Ernest, Ruth and Clare. Harry C. married Mildred Harlan. William
E. is deceased. Mr. Kaufman is affiliated with the Summitville Lodge
No. 475. I. 0. 0. F., and with the Junior Order of United American
Mechanics, Summitville Council No. 23. His church is the First Baptist
of Summitville. He has always been a Democrat, and previous to his
election as justice of the peace served as trustee of Boone township for
542 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
one term, was also assessor for that township in 1888 and was a justice
of the peace in Boone township for four years.
Jesse D. Gakr, M. D. A physician whose practice has brought him
into relations with a large number of citizens in the northern and west-
ern parts of Madison county, Dr. Garr has been a capable nieiubVr of his
profession for many years, and enjoys a high reputation both in the frater-
nity and among his patients and fellow citizens.
Jesse D. Garr was born in 1856 in Howard county, Indiana, near
Kokomo, a son of William and Lucy B. (Clore) Garr. William Garr was
a native of Virginia, spent a number of years in Kentucky, and from that
state moved to Indiana. The ten children in this family were Flo, iMil-
dred, Mollie, Betty, Barbara, Abe, Crawford, Jesse D., John F., and
Jennie, the last named being deceased.
Dr. Garr as a boy attended the common schools of Howard county, and
spent a number of years as a farmer. He prepared for college in Howard
county, and later entered the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical College where
he was graduated M. D. in September, 1896. He practiced first in west
Middleton, and Converse, then in Sims township, for two years had his
office and practice at Campbellsburg, and since that time has been in
Summitville.
Dr. Garr was first married to Miss Laura Parson, now deceased. Their
six children were William, Fred, Lela, Eoy, Ralph, and Homer. After the
death of his first wife Dr. Garr married Miss Sadie Hatfield. Fraternally
he is affiliated with the Masonic Order at Summitville, and the Independ-
ent Order of Odd Fellows No. 691. In politics he is a Democrat.
George Lilly. The late Mr. Lilly was one of the industrial leaders
who in the past quarter of a century have placed Anderson among the
large productive centers of manufacturing in Indiana. His death on
December 5, 1913, was consequently a distinct loss to all of iladison
county. He was one of the founders and until his death president of
the National Tile Company. This is an industry- of which the community
is properly proud. It has been in continuous existence for nearly a quar-
ter of a centurj', and during this time it has been as much of an institu-
tion, and in mam' ways more valuable to the existence and welfare of a
large portion of the population, as the court house, post office, or any
other particular institution which is regarded distinctly as belonging to
the public. The National Tile Company's plant was established in 1889,
as the Columbia Encaustic Tile Works, with capital stock of seventy-five
thousand dollars. Despite the fact that the plant was destroyed by fire
in 1892, its growth was steady and its prosperity sure,- and it has for
some years been one of the most substantial of Anderson's larger indus-
tries, with a capital of five hundred thousand dollars. Mr. B. 0. Haugh
and George Lilly were the principal partners in the original enterprise.
For many years Mr. Lilly was vice president and treasurer of the com-
pany, but on the death of Mr. Haugh became president, and the full
official directory up to the time of Mr. Lilly's death was as follows: George
Lilly, president; Louis E. Lathrop, vice president; Harry Ilaugh, secre-
tary ; and Louis S. Jones, treasurer. The chief output of the National Tile
Plant is tiles for walls, flooring and fireplaces. The company has made a
reputation for the high quality of these wares, which are now shipped
throughout the United States as well as South America. They are par-
ticularly popular on account of their fine finish and durability, as well
HISTORY OK MADISON COUNTY 543
as for their distiuctive coloring. The eompauy have ou their payrolls
from three hundred and tifty to tour hundred persons. It needs little
calculation to understand that such an industry should be a large fac-
tor in the aggregate business enterprise and economic welfare of a city
like Anderson. The works comprise a number of brick buildings, and
the machinery used in the manufacture is of the latest and most im-
proved pattern.
Mr. George Lilly was a native of Pennsylvania, born at Reading,
Berks county, in February, 18GU, and was therefore in his tifty-fourth
^ear at his death. His parents were James W. and Mai-y E. (Kerper)
Lilly. In 1860, the family came to Indiana, first locating in Aladison,
and later moving to Lafayette, where the father was employed in the
railway service for some time. He subsequently engaged in farming,
and served a term as sheritf of the county. Still later he was employed
as superintendent in the railroad shops at Lafayette, and remained su-
perintendent and machinist until his death in 1866. George Lilly at-
tained his primary education in the public schools of Indianapolis, and
after graduating from the high school he was connected with the Big
Four Railroad. Leaving railroading in 1884, he became connected with
the milling business in Indianapolis. Then in 1889 when twenty-nine
years of age, he came to Anderson and associated himself with Mr. Haugh
and Mr. Lathrop, in establishing the title factory.
Mr. Lillj' married ^liss Carrie Olmstead, of Cincinnati, a daughter
of Hiram B. Olmstead, a prominent banker of that city. The one daugh-
ter born to their marriage is Ella Marie, a graduate from Mount Ver-
non Seminary in Washington, D. C. Mr. Lilly was one of the prominent
Masons, being affiliated with Fellowship Lodge No. 681, A. F. & A. M. ;
Anderson Chapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; Anderson Commandery of the
Knights Templar; and also with the Scottish Rite, including the Thirty-
Second Degree, his membership being in the Consistory at Indianapolis,
and with Murat Temple of the IMystic Shrine at Indianapolis. In pol-
itics he was Republican, and had served one term as a member of the
County Council. He was a member of the State Committee, and chair-
man of the Eighth District at the time of his death. The Lilly home is at
416 West Twelfth Street.
Many tributes were paid by friends and business associates to the
character and achievements of Mr. Lilly, but concerning his most inti-
mate character, the most noteworthy was a brief discourse delivered by
his pastor. JIany of the more beautiful things of the intellectual and
spiritual realm had been translated by Mr. Lilly into his practical rela-
tions with his fellow men and he was ever an upright kindly gentleman,
whether on the street or in the factory or in his own home.
"He was a citizen of the great business world, with spotless integ-
rity. W^ith him a good name was rather to be chosen than great riches,
and through these years, with the ebb or flow of fortune, he was truly a
man of God. . . • Books were his passion. How eagerly he sought
the most perfect specimens of the printer's art! How he demanded
that the page should be illuminant with the mark of merit, and his
splendid library was collected with the most splendid culture and taste.
"His heart, in the midst of all this, went out in such outpouring of
love in those ways which lead up to books. What great care he bestowed
upon that office to w'hieh he was called as trustee of one of our finest
schools. Western College for Women, Oxford, Ohio, and one of the last
visits I had witli him he was seeking a man worthy to be trusted to be
544 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
placed at its head. To his church he gave of himsell: and of his means.
He cast his bread upon the water. He was a consecrated man and in his
church he was ti-uly a man sent from God. . .
' ' Then the love that abideth is the love that eudureth. The love that
for thirty years and more transformed the four walls iuto a paradise;
beautiful and absorbing in its beginning it seemed that each new day
added sweetness to the sparkling cup of tiie new wine of passion in his
household. These beautiful years ended with a sorrow like the great
world's altar stairs, that slope through darkness up to Uod. There are
intense moments when it is like this — 'Oh for the touch of a vanished
hand, and the sound of a voice that is stilled. ' The good, the true, the
pure, the just, take the cliarni for ever from them and they orunible
into dust. The love that planned tliis home and for thirty years and
more kept it holy is as eternal, and, by far more imperishable, tliMii tlie
encaustic tile shapen, and put on the market under his directing care.
"Death came to him as it will come to all men, but death came as
the fruition of his life — as the dewdrop finds the heart of the rose. And
when life's infinite summons came, it was with the sense of the Ever-
lasting arms that were underneath, and that the eternal God is our
abiding j)lace."
Chancey Vermillion. On the first day of Januai-y, 1910, Ohancey
Vermillion, a pioneer resident of Richland township, and Madison
county, died at his home, full of years and leaving behind him a
record for useful living that will be an honor to his memory far into
the future. For seventy-six years he was a resident of Madison county,
and few there are who won a more secure position in the hearts and
minds of the people than did he. A farmer of the most prosperous
order, he was long known to be a man of means, and he retained to
his last years an active interest in farms and farming in and about the
county.
A son of Jesse and Catherine (Justice) Vermillion, he was born on
the 12th of May, 1834, on the home farm in Monroe township, where the
family settled when they migrated from Lawrence county, Ohio. Jesse
Vermillion was then a young man, just launching out into independent
life, and he gained a foothold in the new country in 1835 by entering
a tract of one hundred and sixty acres of government land in Monroe
township, where the family home was maintained for years. There the
children were reared, and there Chancey Vermillion passed the early
years when character was being firmly moulded and habits of integrity
and industry formed that were destined to direct the course of his future
life. "When Jesse Vermillion died he left a family of six children.
Chancey was the oldest, and the others were Elizabeth, Cynthia, Colum-
bus, Samuel and Sarah.
The schooling of Chancey Vermillion was limited to a few months
in a most inadequate and inefficient log-cabin school peculiar to that
early day, but it is a significant fact that he did not permit himself to
be restricted in the matter of improving his knowledge. He showed
himself in many ways to be a man of ambition, but not the least
of these was his application to books all through his life. He came to be
thoroughly familiar with the world's best literature, and was ever a
close student and withal an intelligent and understanding one, of
Biblical history. When a boy at home he worked for his father, and
later, when the elder man opened a store at Fairraount, he went into the
HISTOKV OF MADISON COUNTY 545
store as his lather's assistant. With the approach of manhood the
young man undertook fanning for himself, and he began his independent
life on the old homestead that his father had entered from the govern-
ment in earlier years. His farm of one hundred and forty acres on
the -Mooiisville Pike, some six nules from Anderson, he came into
possession of in later years, and there the bulk of his accumulations
was brought together. He was a capable farmer, and one who kept
well abreast of the times, willing and eager to know the best in relation
to the performance of his regular daily tasks. That progressive and
enterprising spirit won for him his position of prominence in the
community, his reputation for efficiency throughout the county and all
the material success that came his way in life.
The first marriage of Mr. Vermillion was to Amanda Pence, deceased,
a daughter of David Pence. Their children were : Mary, who has never
married, and Amanda, who married a Mr. Alvin Curtis and has two
children, Thurman and Cecil. On the 17th of November, 1863, Mr. Ver-
million was married to Miss Esther Keicher, born on her present farm,
a daughter of Peter and Katherine (Lambert) Keicher, the father from
Tennessee and the mother from Virginia. They were old pioneer
residents of Madison county and the first settlers in the neighborhood.
To this second union of .Air. Vermillion were born five children, con-
cerning whom brief mention is made as follows: AUee, the eldest, Liv-
ing at home ; Willis, who married Hattie Broadbent, and has a family
of four children, Oliver, Easter, Ernest and Stella ; John married
Bertha Matthew, and they have two daughters, Mary and Marjorie ;
Elmer married Emma Keicher, and they have four children, Rhea,
Doris, Kenneth and Conrad ^Marshall ; Cora is the wife of William Beall,
and they have two children, Nondas and Curren.
From his marriage in early life until his passing away Mr. Vermil-
lion was a consistent resident of Richland township, and his friends
were legion. His advice was sought in matters of public welfare, and he
served on many occasions as the arbiter of cases of dissension among his
fellows. Good citizenship characterized him ■ all his days, and none
bore more stanchly their share in the civic responsibilities than did
he. His fine country hom£ was the center of hospitality in the town^
ship, and a great good-will ever prevailed on his dominion. In early
life he was an enthusiastic Mason, but in his later years withdrew from
his activities in the order and held little or no intercourse with the
society. But the spirit of brotherhood, despite that fact, was ever strong
within him, as none will gainsay. A Democrat, he gave of his interest
and energy to the furtherance of the cause of that party. Never a
politician, he was yet one who felt a good citizen's interest in affairs
of that ilk, and he played well his part as a member of the party all
the years of his life. His death, which resulted from the effects of a
paralytic stroke suffered some months previously, removed from Rich-
land township one of the most honored and loved men that ever shared
in the daily life of that community, and though three years have passed
since his going, his memory is still fresh in the hearts of all who knew
him.
Joseph Chambers. The oldest living representative of one of the
pioneer families of Madison county, Joseph Chambers, who lives retired
at his home in Lafayette township, has had many varied and interest-
ing experiences during nearly seventy years of residence in this vicinity.
546 HISTOKY OP MADISON COUNTY
His home is a fine farm of two hundred acres, about five miles north-
west of the city of Anderson. Concerning the Chambers family and
his early reminiscences in this county, Mr. Chambers has furnished
some valuable data which in succeeding paragraphs will be incorporated
for preservation in this work. A brief outline of facts concerning his
life and the family history is given preceding this account which
comes directly from this interesting old citizen.
Joseph Hiram Chambers was born in Bartholomew county, Indiana,
on the 4th of January, 1845. His parents were Franklin and Mary
(Dry bread) Chambers, franklin Chambers, the father, was born in
Lawrence county, Indiana, a son of Hiram and Hannah (Thompson)
Chambers. Hiram Chambers brought his family to Madison county
in 1840. His children were named as follows : Franklin, John, Ma-
linda. Miller, William, Emily, Jane, Elijah, Caroline and Bassald.
Hiram Chambers spent the remainder of his life in this county. He
had four brothers, James, Francis, William and Smith, and one sister,
Nancy Short, but all are deceased. James lived on the farm in Dela-
ware county now owned by Miles Walters, and of his family there are
but two children living, Polly Walters and Julia Ann Walters. Francis
Chambers lived on the farm now owned by Weems Bronnenberg, and
of his family there are also but two children living, Adeline Wigner
and Marj- Young. William Chambers lived in the southern part of the
state, and it is not known whether he has children living. Smith
Chambers lived on the farm now owned b}' Henry Boner. In about
1848 or 1850 Mary Chambers, the mother of Joseph Chambers, bought
the property of Smith Chambers, and he then moved to Clinton county,
Indiana, and died there a few years later. He has but one child liv-
ing, Angeline Hart. Hiram, Francis and Smith Chambers had adjoin-
ing farms and reared their families together. As they married they
located their new homes around in the same vicinity, and it became
known as the Chambers neighborhood.
Franklin Chambers, the oldest of the children of Hiram and Han-
nah Chambers, was educated for the most part in Lawrence county,
Indiana. He was a farmer, and by his marriage to Mary Drybread,
which occurred in Delaware county, this state, he had three children:
Julian, deceased, who married John ^Michaels; Joseph H., the subject
of this sketch; and Hannah, deceased. The mother was twice married,
first to Thomas Camby, and they had one child, Melcena, deceased.
Joseph Chambers was a baby when he was brought to JIadison
county, and he was four years of age when his father died. For the
three following years his home was in Delaware county, after which
they moved to Richland township, where they lived for seven years and
then moved to Lafa.yette township, where he has resided ever since.
When fourteen years of age he took charge of the home farm, con-
sisting of eighty acres, and thus at an early age had severe responsibili-
ties thrust upon him, but it )\as been the tribute paid him by his old
associates that he always bore his burdens faithfully and discharged
everv' debt, whether in money or obligation, ever imposed upon him.
On February 1, 1866. he married Rebecca Pritchard. a daughter of
Samuel and Martha (Davis") Pritchard. Samuel Pritchard, who came
from South Carolina, was a farmer and located in Madison county,
spending many years in Adams township. He was a son of Benjamin
P.ritchard, who was among the oldest settlers of Madison county.
Samuel Pritchard and wife were the parents of the following sixteen
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 547
children : Maiy, Luciuda, Clarinda, Phillip, George, Louisa, Jaiie,
Margaret, Rebecca, Peter, Sallie, Calvin (who was killed in the Civil war
while ser\iog for the Union), Martha, Samuel, Susan and Benjamin.
Mrs. Rebecca Chambers was the last of her family in Madison county
with the exception of one sister, JMartha Davis, now living in this town-
ship. Mr. and Airs. Chambers became the parents of five children :
Mary I., now deceased. Alartha, the wife of S. A. Alexander, who lives
near Frankton in Lafayette township, and is the mother of four children,
Joseph, Herchel. Forrest and Ernest. James C. married Emma Bolin,
is a resident of Lafayette township and has the following seven chil-
dren, Edna, Thelma, Mildred, Doi-othy, Joseph Theodore, Robert Lee
and Howard. Anna is the wife of Byron Stevens, and has four chil-
dren. Everett, Alary. Donna and Marcus. Arthur, who married Addie
Bilby. has the following six children: Alice, George, Hazel, Mabel, Earl
and Chester Lee. Air. Joseph Chambers has been a farmer all his life,
and is a successful one. He has interested himself little in politics
except so far as to be always ready to promote the welfare of his home
communit.y. AIi-. and Airs. Chambers are members of the Christian
church.
Air. Joseph Chambers, so far as known, is the oldest of the Chambers
name now living, and as he looks back over the past receding years it
seems but a short while to him since Smith Chambers and Ann, his wife,
gave a turkey roast on Christmas' day of 1864. As well as he can
recollect the ones who attended that celebration, and who have since
passed away, are : Smith Chambers and his wife Ann, George Cham-
bers and wife Rebecca, John Chambers and wife, William Chambers,
Mary Chambers. Rachel Chitty, Susan Chitty, Alary Bodle, William
Barnes, Lindy Barnes, Juliann Alichaels, Samuel Rick, Elizabeth Rick,
Daniel Walters, Elizabeth Walters, Free Boner and wife, James Short,
and Heur\' Walters and wife. The attendants on that occasion still liv-
ing are : Polly Walters, Juliann Walters, Allies Walters, John Alichaels,
Tishy Boner, Sarah S. Eshelman. and Joseph Chambers. Out of thirty-
two only nine are living, but there may have been others in attend-
ance whom he has forgotten.
"The first school I eVer attended," says Joseph Chambers in his
reminiscences, "was in a little schoolhouse in Richland township not
more than twenty feet squai'e, made of round logs. It had a fireplace
in the north end that burned wood about four feet long. The chimney
was made of mud and slats driven out above one inch square. The door
was in the east side, and on the south end was the window. It was a
log cut out, and the window glass was put in alx)ut one foot wade the
entire width of the room. Under that window was the writing desk. It
was a plank about eighteen inches wide. Holes were bored in the logs
of tlie wall, pins stuck in and this board was laid on those pins. The
benches were made of slabs. Alose Treadway was the teacher. I went to
this school two or three terms. The house stood about eighty rods west
of where Henry Boner now lives. The ones living who went to that
school are: Betsy Ann Bigsby, A. J. Barracks, Adaline Wigner, Gil-
"bert Scott, Hester Ann Delp and myself. If there are any more I
have forgotten them. In about 1854 they built a frame schoolhouse
about eighty rods north of the old one. Isaac Scott was the first teacher
that taught in the new house. The last school I went to in that house
was in 1859, taught by A. J. Barracks. He gave a prize for spelling, and
three of us tied — Alary Young, Ned Johns and myself, and the teacher
548 HISTORY OF MADfSOX rO[TXTY
gave each one a prize. All three of us are living. The Chambers Chris-
tian chureh was organized in that house by Ebenezer Thompson with
seven members — Hiram Chambers and wife, John Chambers and wife,
Susan Chambers, .Mary Chambers and Nancy Scott. They held meet-
ings in that house until it burned in 1869. Hiram Chambers deeded to
the church the ground and they built a church house there and it is
still standing.
"We had no buggies then in which to go to church. If we went to
church with our best girl we walked, if it were not too far; if it were
too far to walk we rode horseback. If the girl had a horse and side-
saddle we rode a horse apiece, if not we lioth rode the same horse, the
girl riding behind. Our clothing was home made. ^ly mother kept a
few sheep, and we would shear them and wa.sh the wool, pick it. take
it to the woolen factory, have it carded into rolls, take it home, and
mother would spin it into yarn. She would then color it and weave it
into cloth. She would make flannel for herself and the girls and .jeans
for me, and this is what our clothing consisted of for the' winter.
"I rode on the first steam car that came to Anderson. They gave
a free ride to Pendleton and back. Anderson was but a small place
then, and they called it Anderson town. There were but about three
stores in the place. I have seen it grow to be quite a city. We had
no famil.y reunions then, and the last was the seventh reunion of the
Chambers family. These reunions have been a particularly pleasant
occasions for the older members especially, of the Chambers family."
Mr. Chambers also speaks of the somewhat melancholy circumstance that
each year witnessed the passing of some face which had been visible
in the previous assembly, but that each year new young faces came
to fill in the picture where the old were blotted out.
Edg.vr W. P.4RMER, a railway postal clerk on the New York C'entral
Lines between ( Cleveland, Ohio, and St. Louis, Missouri, lives on Indiana
Avenue, North Anderson. He was born here February 23, 1868.
The Farmer family is better known, probably, than any other fam-
ily in Anderson township outside of the city of Anderson and ranks
among the older ones in the county. Charles ]\I. Farmer (April 16,
1846— June 27. 1910) and Mary L. Cummins. Farmer (Nov. 27, 1848—
Nov. 16, 1900). the parents of Edgar, moved from Henry county. In-
diana, immediately after their maVriage and bought two acres of land
of Isaac Clifford. There were then about six houses in what is now
known as North Anderson. Indiana Avenue was then a mud road lined
by woods on both sides except an occasional clearing for a dwelling. A
little house was built on the land purchased, and here the children, Ed-
gar W., Harold W., and Jessie M., and John S. were born^ Charles, the
father, had been left an orphan at the age of nine years and was the old-
est of a family of four children. His first work was in a brick yard at
twenty-five cents a day. From this on he toiled early and late, managed
carefully and lived frugally. By this means he kept his mother in com-
fort, supported his brothej-s until their death in early manhood as well
as his sister until her marriage. Besides this he raised and educated
his children, added a little to his land from time to time and established
the wholesale market garden and greenhouse business which is now con-
ducted by his son, Harold.
The Farmer family is one of the pioneer families of Indiana. John
Farmer was a captain in the Revolutionary army and is credited to Laii-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 549
caster county, Peiuisylvaiila. Prom here the family moved to Praiik-
liu county, Virginia, wliere a grandson, also named John, married IMary
P. Sliowaltcr. a granddaughter of another soldier of the Revolution.
John and his young wife moved to Wayne county, Indiana, in company
with the Showalter family and settled tirst in Wayne and later in Henry
county. Here their fourth son, Isaiah (Jan. ] 6, 1825 — Sept. 18, 1853),
father of Charles and grandfather of Edgar, was born. His death at
the early age of twenty-eight was caused by t\phoid fever and he left
his wife, Elizabeth Fifer Farmer (May 22, 1817— April 27, 1892) and
four children as has been stated. It is related of him that he was a
stockily built man and Avas considered to be a man of great strength
among the i)ioneers where bodily strength and agility were highly re-
garded. He could shoulder and carry a Ijarrel of salt. To his occupa-
tion of farming he added the trade of basket weaver which he learned
from his father. While the Chicago-Cincinnati division of the Pennsyl-
vania railroad was building he set up a barrel of whiske.y in his kitchen
and added to lii.s scant income the jirofit on the sale of whiskey to the
worknien at five cents a drink served in a pint tin. There were no re-
strictions on the sale oJ' li(|uor at that time and no more odium was at-
tached to its sale than to the sale of calico or groceries.
Ou the side of his mother Edgar W^. Farmer traces his line of de-
scent through the Sc^otch to the Norman French. Fleming Cummins
was his maternal grandfather anil the name Cummins is a variant of the
French name Comyn, the family name of the Earls of Monteith. His
maternal grandmother was Jlarenda Mann, a daughter of Michael Mann,
born in Virginia on Januaiy 6, 1794, of German parents. He spent most
of his life at ilechanicsburg, Indiana, and died at the age of ninety-tive.
Edgar was inarried to Elizabeth Jloore June 21, 1890, and they have
three children. Hallie is a student at the Indiana State Normal at
Terre Haute, Indiana. Ray is a student at home and Dorothy is a school-
girl. The Parmer family are members of the Indiana Avenue Church.
Charles M. Partner and Rev. David D. Powell organized this church
and Mr. Parmer was a member of the Official Board of the church until
his death. His sons, Edgar W^. and Harold W., each served for several
years as Sunday School Superintendent and both are now members of
the Official Board.
Isaiah Parmer was an old line Whig. Charles M. Parmer was a life
long Republican and ranked his party along with, his country and his
church. In the natural course of development bis sons are all Pro-
gressives.
Nev^'ton Burke was born in Connersville, Fayette county, Indiana,
and died in July, 1907. He was a contractor, a vocation he con-
tinued to follow during the best years of his life. A veteran of the
Civil war, he participated actively in a number of important engage-
ments, and was honorably discliarged at the close of his terra of enlist-
ment, after which he took up his abode in Anderson and here plied his
trade up to the close of his long and useful life. His widow, who sur-
vives him, still resides in Anderson, and is now in the sixty-second year
of her age, enjoying hale spirits and in full possession of her faculties.
John C. Johnson. Honesty and stability of character are the foun-
dation stone of a young man's life, and in the formative period, when fit-
ting himself for the battle of life, with those attributes of character, to-
550 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
gether with a L'air measure of ambition, one is sure to arrive at the goal
of his desires. Mi-. Johnson is a native son of Madison county, Indiana,
and has here resided all his life. His days here have been as an open
volume to the citizens of Van Buren township and the contiguous ter-
ritory, and the people of his township have conferred upon him the high-
est honor in ofticial position in their gift, — that of township trustee. The
supervision of the schools, highways, bridges, etc., and all pertaining to
the interest and welfare of the township have received his closest atten-
tion, and now, in the winter of 1913-14, his friends and acquaintances
have solicited him to become a candidate on the Democratic ticket for
the office of county cleik, and with straightforward honesty he is making
the canvass, his candidacy seeming to meet the approbation of all.
A man of a jovial, kind and social nature, he makes friends easily
and holds them steadfastly, and it is the expectation of many that he
will carry the election at the head of his ticket. As one who thoroughly
understands the requirements of modern education, he has already
shown himself the champion of the local schools, and has used his best
efforts to promote the efficiency of the local system.
John C. Johnson was born on the Joseph Johnson farm in section
twenty-two on the ninth of November, 1877. His parents were Joseph
and Elizabeth (Allen) Johnson. Joseph Johnson married Miss Allen in
Hancock county, and then brought his young wife to Madison county in
1869, where he bought land in Van Buren township. Successful as a
farmer, he was also a man of more than ordinary local influence. He
was twice elected township trustee of Van Buren township, and was
always a willing worker in any community enterprise. His death oc-
curred April 7, 1908, and he is buried in the cemetery of the Odd Fel-
lows south of Suramitville one and one-half miles. There were thirteen
children in the family, whose names were: Manson N., Minerva J. ;
Jesse A.; Daniel M. ; Mary E., who died May 28, 1910; Lewis W. ; Etta
L. ; Amanda L. ; John C. ; Delia A. ; Pearl A. ; James M. and Sarah C.
The three last named are now deceased.
John C. Johnson spent his youthfiil days on the home farm of his
parents in Van Buren township, and as a boy first went to the old Zede-
kar sclioolhouse No. 4, in Van Buren township. For one year he was
in the Summitville high school, and completed his education with one
term of study in the Fairmount Academy in Grant county. It was his
ambition to l)ecome a member of the legal profession, and with that end
in view entered in 1896 upon a course of law studies under the able in-
structions of the Hon. Thomas Bagot, an honorable and successful law-
yer. But ill health at that time intervened in the carrying out of this
cherished desire and he returned to the farm. In the intervals of his
school training Mr. Johnson worked on the farm, and was thoroughly
trained for farm life and systematic business principles. Farming has
been his regular vocation, and the cause of his most telling prosperity.
He has a well improved eighty in section fifteen of Van Buren township,
though he does not maintain his residence on the home place for he
moved into Summitville on November 7, 1907, where he has an attractive
and comfortable home with his mother.
His election to the office of trustee, already referred to, came in 1908,
and he has held the office up to the present time. Fraternally he is affil-
iated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks No. 478, the Im-
proved Order of Red :\len. No. 149, and the A. F. & A. M.. No. 691. His
family are members and attendants of the Primitive Baptist church.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 551
Allen Peters. One of the present county commissionei-s of Madi-
son county, Mr. Peters is one of tlie most efficient and popular officials
of tlie county, and the public business has never been entrusted to abler
hands than to those of Mr. I'etei-s. He was formerly a teacher and
merchant in this county, where he has spent all his life and represents
one of the oldest and most prominent families in the history of Madison.
He had been connected more or less with political affairs for many years,
and at the present time is engaged in farming in Boone township.
Allen Peters was born September 2, 1861), on the old Petei-s farm
about eight miles northeast of Elwood in Boone township. He still re-
sides in the vicinity where he was born and reared and most of his asso-
ciations have been with this section of the county. His parents were
Edmon H. and Eliza (Hull) Peters. His father was a native of Brown
county, Ohio, and the five children in the family are mentioned as fol-
lows: Emma Chaplin, of Boone township; Allen; Mrs. Cora Hiatt of
Duck Creek township ; James E. and Mrs. Ethel Mann.
As a boy Allen Peters attended the common schools of Madison
county, and most of his education was acquired in the Red Oak sciiool-
house which stood on the corner of the Peters homestead. He finished
his preparation for life in the college at Danville, Indiana, and with
this equipment attained a certificate and for eight terms taught in Boone
township and was a teacher for one terra in Van Buren. He continued
to apply his energies to farming and teaching until 1892. In that year
he engaged in the hardware business at Summitville uuder the firm name
of McLain and Peters. This business was conducted prosperously until
1898. In 1899 ilr. Peters took the superintendence of the old home
farm, and in the following year bought a place of his own of fifty acres
adjoining the old homestead. In 1900 he took charge both of his
own farm and the estate of his father, and has since operated about
four hundred acres of the tine soil of Boone township. On May 13,
1900, Mr. Peters married Jliss Fannie P\ McDermott. Their children are
Robert P. now deceased, and Violet E. in the 7th grade of school. Mr.
Peters is affilatcd with both the subordinate and Encampment degrees
of Odd Fellowship, belonging to the Lodge at Summitville, and the En-
campment at Elwood. His other fraternal affiliations include the
Knights of Pythias, Gas Belt Lodge No. 361, and the Improved Order of
Red Men, Neoskaleta Tribe.
For the past twenty years he has been quite active in public affairs,
and his first important position was as deputy assessor in Boone town-
ship in 1892. He served as trustee of the township from November,
1900, to January, 1905, and during this time he administered the affairs
of the townhsip in a praiseworthy manner and the schools in particular
prospered under his term of office. Two years ago he was elected com-
missioner from district No. 3 by a large majority and has made an excel-
lent record in that office. He and his family have membership in the
Methodist church.
Robert E. Webster. Near Summitville in Van Buren township is
one of the fine country homes of Madison county, a place which for
years has given a distinctive character of prosperity and well ordered
enterprise to the country life of this section of the county. It is the
farm occupied and owned by Robert E. Webster who wa^ born on the
place and has been identified with agricultural activities in this section
Vol n— in
552 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
all his life. In his home place he has eighty acres and also owns another
farm of seventy acres east of Summitville about two miles.
Robert E. Webster was boru in Madison county on his present estate
February 25, 1868, a son of Daniel \V. and Elizabeth (.Bear) Webster.
The family belongs to the same stock which in an earlier day pro-
duced the noted orator and statesman Daniel Webster. Daniel W.
Webster was the son of Robert and Rebecca (Fisher) Webster. Robert
Webster during the early days brought his family from the state of
Delaware to Madison county, and reached this part of Indiana in time
to secure land direct from the government in Boone township. Later
he sold his old homestead and moved into Van Buren township. Daniel
W. Webster and wife had a family of seven children, namely: Oliver,
Robert E., Jane Canup, Daniel F., Arthur; and two that died in infancy.
Robert E. Webster was reared in Van Buren township, and all his
early schooUng was attained in the old Allen school. His first teacher
was John Vinson, and under other instructors he continued until he
was fairly well equipped in the fundamentals of knowledge. While a
schoolboy he also worked on the farm, and at the age of twenty-six
began renting the home place, where he has since lived and of which
be has since become owner.
Mr. Webster was married April 21, 1894, to Miss Etta L. Johnson,
a daughter of Joseph Johnson, one of the well known old residents of
Madison county, concerning whom more information will be found on
other pages of this work. The three children of Mr. and Mrs. Webster
are: Ethel, Vern, Joseph W. and Helen E. Mr. Webster is affiliated
with the Knights of Pythias Gas Belt Lodge, No. 361, and his family
belongs to the Methodist church. By good mauageuient and with
thrifty ideas of agriculture he has brought his place to rank with the
best improved in Van Buren township. He built, in 1912, a modern
residence, and has a complete set of new out-buildings.
Daniel F. Mustard. The president of the Citizens Bank of Ander-
son, Daniel F. ^ilustard, is an old-time resident of Madison county, havitig
lived within the boundaries of this civil division of Indiana all of his
life. He belongs to a family whose name has been borne with honor and
usefulness in this county for practically all the years since the pioneer
epoch, and his own career has been one of exceptional service, beginning
with the time of his part in the Civil war as a soldier of the Union and
continuing with distinguished positions in the public affairs of the
county and with over thirty years of active connection with banking
in Anderson.
Daniel F. ilustard was born in Lafayette township, Madison county,
on the 20th of October, 1844. In 1850 his father, William Mustard,
who was an early settler of this county, moved from Fayette township to
Anderson. Daniel, or Dan, as he is more familiarly known among his
friends and associates, entered the public schools of this city and there
remained, working at intervals in his father's shoe shop, learning the
shoemaker's trade, until he reached the age of seventeen. He was a
good student, and also diligently applied himself to acquiring a trade as a
basis for his subsequent work in life, soon becoming an expert and skilled
workman.
When the Civil war came on he was sixteen years old. Ab at two years
went by, and then his patriotic enthusiasm would no longer allow him
to stay at home, and on the 6th of April, 1863. he enlisted in the Thirty-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 553
foui'th Indiana Infantry as a private in Company I. After about tuteeu
months of service he was detached, and until the close of the rebellion
was a musician in the regimental band. H£ was with his command during
the memorable siege of Vicksburg in the summer of 1863 until the very
last battle of the war at Palmetto Ranch, in Texas, a small skirmish
fought on the 13th of May, 1865, fully a month after the surrender of Lee
to Grant at Appomattox. Owing to conditions existing with Mexico
at that time the regiment was retained in Texas until February, 1866,
when it was discharged, this regiment having the honor of being the last
one discharged from the service. Returning then to Anderson, Mr. Mus-
tard once more became associated with his father in the boot and shoe
business, remaining with him until March, 1868. He was then given
the appointment of deputy audicor under James M. Dickson, a position
which he filled with credit to himself and with fidelity to the interests
•entrusted to his charge for two and a half years. On leaving the auditor's
office he was employed by Dr. Joseph Pugh, at that time treasurer of the
county, as a clerk in his office, remaining there for a number of months.
Later for six months he was employed in the recorder's office. This was
followed by service as deputy clerk under Thomas J. Fleming. On leav-
ing the clerk's office in 1871, Mr. Mustard took a position as book-
keeper in the First National Bank of Anderson, and in that way gained
his first detailed experience of banking. He remained with the First
National until August, 1873.
When Weems Heagy was elected to the office of county treasurer
Mr. Mustard was again appointed deputy treasurer, and fulfilled the
functions of that position while Mv. Heagy was treasurer, a period of
four years. The fine business qualifications of the deputy treasurer
together with his long experience in that and other county offices anci
his thorough integrity both in public ajid private life, caused his many
friends in the party and county to present his name for nomination in the
office of county treasurer. They carried their point successfully, and he
was nominated on the first ballot and in the election was chosen by a
vote which was in the nature of the highest possible personal compliment,
for he ran two hundred votes ahead of his ticket. His name was on the
ticket that elected "Blue Jeans" Williams for governor of Indiana, in
the memorable campaign of 1876. When his terra of office expired Mr.
Mustard was again placed in nomination by his party and re-elected by
a majority of over nine hundred. He thus served two terms in that
important office, and since then has been closely connected with the busi-
ne.ss affairs of Anderson.
Politically Mr. Mustard is a stalwart Democrat, and since arriving at
the age of niajority has been an ardent worker for the success of his
party. He is an Odd Fellow, and has received all the honors that a
subordinate lodge can bestow. He has been treasurer of Anderson Lodge,
No. 131, and of Star Encampment, No. 84. for more than twenty-seven
years.
In 1871 Mr. Mustard was married, and his children (as he calls them),
six in number are: Fred E. Mustard, his only son, and his wife Nelda
and daughter Janet : Mrs. Ethel M. Cline, his only daughter, her hus-
band, Frank C. Cline. and their daughter Adelaide Johana, all of whom
live near his home in Anderson, and this is an exceptionally happy and
devoted family.
Industrious to a fault, temperate at all times and under all cir-
cumstances, frugal and cautious in the disposition of his means, Daniel
554 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
F. Mustard has for a number of years been honorably accumulating for
himself and family a handsome competence. In his public as well
as private relations with his fellow citizens it can be truthfully said that
his honesty has never been questioned or brought into question. Strong
in his attachments and quick to appreciate a generous act, he can appeal
confidently to his generation and to those who have known him from
childhood, in sunshine and shade, to say that he has not been ungrateful.
George B. McDermit. One of the independent and progressive
farmers of Boone township is George B. McDermit, who has in his home
place, located on the rural free delivery route No. 28 out of Elwood,
one hundred and twenty acres of fine and well improved laud, his
mother's place, and he also owns and operates other land in the same
township aggregating more than two hundred acres. He conducts
his farming on businesslike principles and after looking over his farm
and understanding somewhat of the man it is not difficult to under-
stand his reasons for success.
George B. DcMermit was born on the McDermit farm which he now
occupies, the date of his birth having been December 28, 1871. He is a
son of Samuel and Julia (Minnick) McDermit. Samuel McDermit came
from Mason county, West Virginia, and bought land in Boone town-
ship of Madison county, comprising a portion of the estate now owned
by his son George. The Minnick family also came from Mason county,
West Virginia, and Mr. McDermit 's mother had one sister, Sarah Over-
shiner, who lives in Boone township. Mr. McDermit 's father was buried
at Forestville cemetery. The children in the family of Samuel McDermit
and wife were eight in number, mentioned as follows: Margaret, de-
ceased; Martha Minnick; John D. ; Edward; Charles B.; Samuel H. ;
one that died in infancy; and Mr. McDermit of this review.
George B. McDermit as a boy grew up on the old homestead in Boone
township, and during the winter seasons attended the Red Oak school-
house. He finished his education in the Marion Normal College, but
did not prepare for teaching, and has followed agricultural activities all
his life. While attending school he also worked on the farm, and is a
thoroughly experienced man in farming and stock raising. He began
by renting land, and from the gradual accumulations of his industry
and thrift saved enough to increase his landed property from time to
time, and now the McDermits have one of the best estates in Boone
township.
Mr. McDermit is unmarried. Fraternally he is affiliated with the
Improved Order of Red Men, the Neoskaleta Tribe, No. 149, and the
Haymakers at Alexandria, Indiana.
Ralph B. Clark. In his native city of Anderson Mr. Clark has
found ample scope and opportunity for effective business enterprise
and has gained a secure position as a representative citizen of the county
with good claims upon popular confidence and esteem in the community
that has always been his home, and in the progress and prosperity of
which he maintains the deepest interest. He is a member of the firm
of Clark and Raber, which conducts a flourishing retail jewelry business,
and is also general manager of the Merchants Fire Insurance Company,
one of the strong institutions of its kind in the state, with general
offices at Anderson.
Ralph B. Clark was bom at Anderson, Indiana, on July 24, 1866,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 555
and k'lougs to one of the oKlost «ud most honored pioneer families of
Madison county, where his grandfather George Clark established a home
at an early period, and contiinied to reside in Fall Creek township until
liis death at the patriarchal age of ninety-two years. Grandfather Clark
contributed his quota to the development and progress of the county,
and was a man who enjoyed the unqualified esteem of all who Liiew
him.
The parents of Ralph B. Clark were Ralph N. and Mary A. (Jack-
son) Clark, both of whom were born and reared in Indiana. The mother
was a daughter of Hon. Andrew Jackson, another of the sterling pioneers
in Jladison county, and a resident of Anderson at the time of his death.
Andrew Jackson became the owner of an excellent landed estate in
]\[adison count.y, and was long numbered among the representative agri-
culturists and stock growers of this favored section, having given spe-
cial attention to the raising of high grade liorses and cattle. He was a
man of energy and enterprise, was broad in his views, and en.joyed the
unqualified confidence and esteem of his fellow men. Ralph N. Clark
continued to reside on his homestead farm until his death, which oc-
curred in 1872. He was born in 182(1. His wife survives him by a
number of years.
Ralph B. Clark is indebted to the public schools of Anderson for his
early educational advantages, which included the curriculinn of the
high school. After leaving school he entereil a .jewelry store at Ander-
son and learned the trade of jeweler and watchmaker. Thoroughly
equipped in this line, in 1888, Mr. Clark engaged in the retail busi-
ness on his own account, and from a modest beginning built up a
large and prosperous enterprise, which for years has been a center
of patronage for most discriminating buyers. For a number of years
Mr. Clark conducted the business under his own name, and then ad-
mitted his brother-in-law, \Villiam Raber, to partnership. This alliance
has since continued and the firm of Clark and Raber has a thoroughly
metropolitan jewelry establishment at 1008 Meridian street, where they
caiTy a large and select line of watches, clocks, jewelry, silverware, etc.
Mr. Clark has long been one of the prominent and progressive business
men of Anderson, and his success has been the direct result of fair and
honorable dealing, and personal popularity. In 1905 he had the dis-
tineiion of being elected president of the Indiana Retail Merchants
Association, and remained in that office five years. He has been gen-
eral manager of the Merchants Fire Insurance Company since 1906,
and has been an important factor in developing that large and sub-
stantial corporation. •
Public spirited in his civic attitude, Mr. Clark has always given his
influence and cooperation to the furtherance of measures and enter-
prises projected for the general good of his home city and county, and
has long had a prominent place in the local Republican party. In this
connection he has done much effective campaign work in the interests of
his friends and the general party organization, and in 1912 his name was
prominently brought forward in connection with the office of state
senator from this district. The general wave of Democratic success of
course defeated his political aspirations. Mr. Clark served two years
as a member of the Anderson Board of Public Works, and for one
year was a member of the Board of Pensioners of police. In the Masonic
fraternity he is affiliated with Mount Moriah Lodge No. 77, F. & A. M. ;
Anderson Chapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; and Anderson Commandery No. 33,
556 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
K. T., and also belongs to Banner Lodge No. -116, Knights of Pythias. In
1906 he became one of the organizers of the Merchants Fire Insvirance
Company of Anderson, has served as its secretary since its incorpora-
tion, and has done much to bring it to its present substantial and
important status in the insurance field of Indiana.
In 1891 was solemnized the marriagi- of Mv. Clark to iliss Olive B.
Burnett. She was born and reared in Anderson and is a popular figure
in social affairs. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have three children : George L.,
Ralph Walker, and Mary Ellen.
John H. Koons. The eminence of Anderson among the industrial
centers of Indiana has been due to the presence here of a group of men
possessed of special genius as inventors and manufacturers and of fine
capabilities as organizers and business builders. Capital has been less
conspicuous in the net results than personal ability, and it is with pride
that the city regards its lists of industrial executives. One of these is
Mr. Koons, the inventor and consulting engineer of ihe Koons Oil Fur-
nace Company, designers and manufacturers of the Koons Hot Blast
low pressure oil burning system, for all kinds of heating.
John H. Koons has had a long and varied experience in me-
chanical fields and has been identified with Anderson since 1904.
He was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania, May 12, 1860, a son of John
W. and Mary (Buss) Koons, both of whom were born in Pennsylvania.
As a boy he attended the public schools and a select school in his native
town. His first work on leaving school was as a clerk in a drug store.
His inclinations were for applied mechanics, and he soon learned the
trade of machinist under his father. After that he traveled extensively
as a joumeymaji workman through the western states, including Cali-
fornia, Arizona and others, and gained a broad knowledge of both
manufacturing and operating lines of his work. In 1898 he returned to
Allentown, Pennsylvania, and for some time was engaged in farming in
that city. Afterwards he moved to Ohio, and was in the oil fields at
DuBois near Lima, being interested in the oil business and also work-
ing at his regular profession. He was there about eighteen months and
in 1904 moved to Anderson which has since been his prominent home.
Mr. Koons is able to work out almost any problem of practical mechan-
ics, and has an original ability of invention, the most practical and
profitable result of which has been the Koons Oil Furnace, now being,
manufactured by the company of which he is consulting engineer and
a member. The fuel used in these furnaces is exclusivelj^ petroleum, and
the furnace is constructed on a special design, for complete combus-
tion of this fuel. It has proved very practical, economical, and wher-
ever tried, however severe the test may have been, has not only satisfied
every claim made for it, but has won permanent friends and advocates.
The company which manufacture the furnaces have succeeded in intro-
ducing it into many states of the Union and after the years in which
the business has been promoted the name of Koons Hot Blast Furnace
has attained a standard of quality and value which sells itself. Mr.
Koons is not only an inventor and designer, but a good business organizer
and executive, and the company with which he is associated is regarded
as one of the strongest industries in the city of Anderson. Associated
with Mr. Koons in the practical direction of the concern is Mr. J. M.
Millett, secretary-treasurer of the company. The plant is located at
630 Meridian street, and has a fine equipment of machinery, its power
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 557
being supplied by electric motoi-s. The furnace has been designed and
has a practical use for store, business houses, churches, schoolhouses
and residences, and not only furnishes superior heating facilities, but is
demonstrably more economical than most furnaces now in use.
Ill 1895 Mr. Koons married Miss Clara Evett, of Lehighton, Penn-
sylv;inia. in which city she was born, reared and educated. They have
no children. Mr. Koons is affiliated with the Benevolent & Protective
Order of Elks, and the Travelers Protective Association. In one of the
best residence districts of Anderson he has his home, built in 1911, which
in point of architectural design is one of the most attractive and is
among the most modem in its appointments and furnishings in the
city.
Prank Knight. The possibilities of any business are almost unlim-
ited when there is a foundation of thorough and reliable workmanship,
square dealing in every relation between the business and its patrons,
and a thorough regard for the wholesome business principles and prac-
tices. Mr. Frank Knight of Anderson has for many years been iden-
tified with the painting and decorative trade, and has built up as a
contractor a business such as the proprietors of many more ostentatious
industries might well envy. He is deemed one of the responsible and
public spirited citizens of Anderson, and has been a resident of this
city fnr upwards of fortj' years.
Frank Knight was born in Logan county, near West Liberty, Ohio,
on Cliristmas Day of 1848. His father was James and his mother
Barbara (Daley) Knight, the former born at Richmond, Indiana, in
1818. Grandfather William Knight was a native of Kentucky, one
of the early settlers of both Ohio and Indiana, was a miller by trade,
and worked at different mills in both states. His death occurred in
Ohio, and his wife also passed away in that state.
Frank Knight received his early training at West Liberty, attend-
ing both the common and high schools, and also was a student in a
select school at Bluffton, Ohio. When he left school it was to begin
work in the mill with his father, and he continued in that line of
business until his twenty-first year. He then went south and located
at Chattanooga. Tennessee, a town which was then just coming forward
as an industrial center, and enjoying a great boom. He remained there
for three years and engaged in the building business. During that
time he became very familiar with the local citizenship and also with
the historical localities of Lookout Mountain and other points about
the city. In 1875 Mr. Knight located at Anderson, where for several
years be followed his trade as painter and paperhanger. He then became
"associated with other parties in the milling business for four years,
and until 1884 was connected with the firm of E. E. Henderson & Com-
pany in painting and decorating. In the latter year he took up con-
tracting in painting and decorative arts by himself, and frbm small be-
ginnings has gradually built up a large and valued service in these
lines. He has painted many of the fine residences both inside and out,
has done a great deal of all classes of decorative work in churches,
schoolhouses, had the contract for the work on the courthouse of Ander-
son, and at the state capitol in Indianapolis, painted the outside, did
the papering and frescoing and decorating of the interior in both the
senate and house of representatives chambers. He has a large local
business and employs a staff of many workmen during the busy sea-
558 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
son. His careful and honest work speaks for itself, and he has built up
his enterprise until it now needs no advertising or unusual exploitations.
Mr. Knight in 1876 married Miss Martha Kemp, a daughter of
Joseph L. Kemp, a native of Logan county, Ohio. Her father is now
living in his ninety-fourth year, and is hale and hearty and is in full
possession of all his faculties. The only son and child of their union
is Franklin J., now a resident of Los Angeles, California, and engaged
in the automobile business. He is married and has a home of his own.
Mr. Knight is a Republican in politics, but has never been an office-
seeker, though he has given his assistance in the campaigns of his friends.
He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias fraternity. His large and
substantial residence in Anderson is located at the corner of Eighth street
and Madison avenue, and is one of the model homes of a very attractive
district. Mr. Knight is fond of his home and family, and keeps a large
place in his affections and time for domestic interests. He has one of
the handsomest lawns in Anderson, beautifully set with shade trees and
cared for so as to bring out every point of beauty and neatness.
Jesse Rothrock. An industry which during the past several decades
has grown and flourished in eastern Indiana, is the operation of farm
landa for the production of dairy goods. Ever since the necessity for
pure milk has been recognized, many of the most progressive farmers
and business men have devoted their activities to dairying. One of the
best sources of good milk in the city of Anderson is supplied by Jesse
Rothrock, who has a thoroughly equipped modern dairy farm in north
Anderson.
Jesse Rothrock was born on a farm six miles south of Columbus in
Bartholomew county, Indiana, April 6, 1860. His father was Jesse Roth-
rock, born near Rotterdam in Holland, a country noted for its great
dairying industries. The grandparents came to America, accompanied
by their children, and located in South Carolina, where both died shortly
afterwards. The children were then scattered, and Jesse Rothrock, Sr.,
found a home with a planter and slave holder in that state. After he
had reached young manhood he came west and located in Bartholomew
county, Indiana, which was his home until 1867. He then went to
Shelby county, Illinois, where he bought a tract of land direct from the
government. That land under his capable industry was improved into
a good farm, and by the erection of good buildings afforded a comfort-
able home to the senior Rothrock until his death in 1898 in his eighty-
second year. Jesse Rothrock, Sr., married Sarah Wilson. She survived
her husband a number of years, and died in 1908. There were three
daughters and one son in the family.
Jesse Rothrock, the onlj' son, was reared on a farm, had a substan-
tial training in all the fundamentals of agriculture, and continued to
make his home with his parents until 1885. He then came to Indiana, and
located at Greencastle, where he was engaged in farming for five years.
From there he transferred his home to Madison county, and bought land
on Meridian avenue in North Anderson. There he built several tene-
ment houses, and while looking after his real estate interests was for
several years in the employ of the Local Gas Company. In 1909, Mr.
Rothrock bought a farm on Indiana avenue, one mile from the court-
house, and there established his present dairy industry. On his farm
he has erected a good set of buildings including his comfortable frame
dwelling house, which was remodeled from an older house. In the farm
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 559
yard, e-oiistitutiiig the real factory of his business, he has a commodious
dairy barn, and beside it is a large silo. All the equipment is first class
for dairy work, and Mr. Rothrock has consistently maintained a high
standard for all his products, which are sold in the local market.
In 1884, Mr. Rothrock married Viola Evans, who was born at Green-
castle, Indiana, a daughter of Professor James E. and Susan J. Evans.
Her father was a well known teacher at Greencastle, where he died in
middle life. Mrs. Rothrock was reared in Greencastle, and received her
education in the academy of that city. The family of Mr. Rothrock
consists of himself, wife and one daughter, and they are all members of
the Friends church, in which Mr. Rothrock was reared.
Daniel ^Iarcus John.son. One of the attractive and valuable farms
of Van Buren township is the place of Daniel Marcus Johnson, compris-
ing one hundred acres of fine land located about four miles northeast of
Sunmaitville and on the Johnson road. Mr. Johnson began his career
as a renter, by thrift and good management saved sufficient means to
make his first purchase of land, and is now one of the substantial agricul-
turists of the county. He brought a thorough experience and ability
to the improvement of his place, according to his standards of what he
wanted this farm to be. It is therefore a farm which has been largely
shaped out by his own labors and plans and represents both a comfort-
able home and a gratifying source of income.
Daniel Marcus Johnson was born September 11, 1869, on the Har-
rison Allen farm in Van Buren township, a son of Joseph and Eliza-
beth (Allen) Johnson. Joseph Johnson married Miss Allen in Hancock
county, and then brought his young wife to Randolph county, and
thence to Madison county, where he bought land in Van Buren township.
He was a successful farmer, and a man of local influence, and his death
on April 7, 1908, was a distinct loss to the community. He is buried in
the cemetery of the Odd-Fellows. The thirteen children in this family
were : Mansou U. ; Minerva J. ; Jesse A. ; Daniel ]\I. ; Mary E., who died
May 29, 1909 ; Lewis W. ; Amanda L. ;Etta L. ; John C. ; Delia A. ; Pearl
A., James M., and Sarah, all three now deceased.
Daniel Marcus Johnson was married September 30, 1908, to Estella
May Taylor, a daughter of George and Alice (Howe) Taylor. Her
parents now live in Bartholomew county, Indiana, where George Taylor
was bom. He was the son of Powell and Hattie Taylor. George Taylor
was a farmer, was educated in the common schools, and has been one of
the prosperous farmers near Columbus. The five children in the Taylor
family included the following: Mrs. Johnson; Louie Mobley; Bessie
Galbreith ; Hattie Stoughton, of Elizabethtown, Indiana ; Georgie Guinn,
of Columbus, Indiana. Mrs. Johnson received her education in the com-
mon schools near Columbus, Indiana, and has been well trained for her
part as a home-maker and mother. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two
children, George C. and Martha E.
Mr. Johnson was brought up in Madison county, and as a boy
attended the "Zedekar" school. While going to school he worked on the
farm. Finally he rented land and began accumulating the money for
establishing himself independently as a farmer. He then bought a farm
and has since increased his means with every year. His chief occupa-
tion has been farming and the raising of the Dnroc hogs, and he
sends a large number to market each year. Mr. Johnson is a member
560 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of the Primitive Baptist church and Mrs. Johnson is a member of the
Missionary Baptist church.
James M. Hundley. When a boy James M. Hundley was a Union
soldier. His early experiences and associations were with a farm,
and he had his full share of farm life. He was a railroader and also
a street car driver, finally finished his education, was a school teacher,
was admitted to the Indiana bar about forty years ago, and was for
many years one of the leading lawyers in the north half of Madison
county,, and at the same time active in official affairs. Mr. Hundley is
now retired and enjoys the activities and atmosphere of country life,
devoting all his time to the cultivation of a valuable little fruit farm near
north Summitville.
James M. Hundley was born July 6, 18-18, in Clinton county, Ohio,
a son of William and Jane (Martin) HundleJ^ The father came from
Leesburg, Virginia, settled in Ohio when a young man and for a num-
ber of years was a blacksmith at the town of Lynchburg, Ohio. The
children in his family were : John, deceased ; James M. ; Amanda P. ;
William, Alvira, Andrew, George, Mary, all deceased ; Clara Latchaw
and Jasper, deceased.
James M. Hundley was reared in Grant county. His father had
moved to that county in 1851, and built the first blacksmith shop at
Pairmount, where he plied his trade for a number of years. After a
brief period of schooling in Grant county, the war came on and diverted
the attention of the school boy from all thought of school. He enlisted
in the Fifth Indiana Cavalry, but on account of his youthful years was
taken out and had to bide his time for a while. Afterwards, in August,
1864, he enlisted in Company E of the One Hundred and Fortieth
Infantry, under Col. Thomas J. Brady, and during the last two years
of the war was in service in the department of the Ohio under General
Schofield. The division commander was A. D. Cox and the brigade
commander was the late General Thomas Henderson of Illinois. Return-
ing home a veteran, j'oung Hundley found that in the meantime his
father had moved to Van Buren township in IMadison count}^ and
soon afterward he left home and began work as a brakeman, on the Lake
Erie & Western Railroad, running out of Indianapolis. After that for
a time he was a street car driver on the College avenue line in Indi-
anapolis. All the time he had his thoughts and ambitions centered
upon better things, and in order to be properly equipped for his larger
field, he attended school, and finished his education in the city schools
of Marion and Anderson. Afterwards he was employed as a teacher
up to 1886. In the meantime in 1874 he had gained admission to the
bar, and from 1886 until 1897 was actively identified with his profes-
sion in Summitville. In January, 1897, President McKinley appointed
Mr. Hundley postmaster at Summitville, and by reappointment under
President Roosevelt he served two terms in that office.
Mr. Hundley in the session of 1904-05 was chosen a member of the
State Legislature from a flotarial district comprising Madison. Clinton
and Tipton counties. The present home of Mr. Hundley is on the out-
skirts of north Summitville, a pleasant little farm of forty acres, and
there he follows his inclinations as a fruit grower. He also raises
poultry and hogs and is making a profit as well as a delightful home and
a pleasant occupation for his old age.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 561
October 23, 1874, Jlr. Hundley married Miss Sarah Feniiiniore, a
daughter cf Henry and Barbara (Holt) Pennimore. The five children
of Mr. and Mrs. Hundley are: Maggie L., deceased; Verna M., at home;
William H. ; Frank M., who married Mabel Johnson; and John E., at
home. The family all are communicants of the Christian church.
Feank W. Witter. The genuine western spirit of enterprise and
progress is exemplified in the careers of such men as Frank W. Witter,
of Van Buren township — men whose laudable ambition, persevering
determination and energetic natures have enabled them to conquer many
adverse circumstances and surmount numerous obstacles, and to advance
steadily to a leading position in their chosen walks of life. A resi-
dent of Van Buren township for upvvards of a quarter of a century,
Mr. Witter has during this time gained the high regard of his fellow-
citizens by his genuine worth, and as the owner of 170 acres of land,
all Hcquired through the medium of his own efforts, he is today recog-
nized as one of the leading representatives of the best farming interests
of his community. He is a native of Indiana, having been born near
the city of Liberty, Union county, May 13, 1865, and is a son of Henry
and Mary A. (IMoss) Witter.
Henrj' Witter was bom in Union county, Indiana, and still makes
his home on the old farm near Liberty, where he has carried on suc-
cessful farming ventures through many years. He and his wife have had
ten ehildren, namely : Charles ; Lizzie, who is the wife of Mr. Ardery ;
Prank W., of this review; Riley; Elmer; Ollie, who is deceased; Etta;
Willie, who is now in the United States government service in the
Philippine Islands; Clarence; and Inda.
Prank W. Witter obtained his education at the old Witter school in
Union county, so named because it was located on his father's place,
and during this time was thoroughly trained in agricultural pursuits
while assisting his father and brothers in the work of the home place.
He remained with his father until he was twenty-three years of age, and
then struck out for himself, beginning his operations in Union county
and coming to Madison county about the year 1888. Here he first
located on a farm of sixty acres, located on what is now known as the
Witter gravel road, about one and one-half miles northeast of Summit-
\ille, and to this he has added from time to time until he now has 170
acres, all under a high state of cultivation. He has cultivated this land
until it now pays him handsomely for his labors and bumper crops give
eloquent evidence of Mr. Witter 's ability as a farmer. He has a fine
herd of sleek, well-fed cattle, raises higli grade horses, and also deals
extensively in hogs and sheep, and in all of his transactions shows him-
self to be an able and honorable man of business. It is always pleas-
ant to trace the history of a man who has won a high place in the respect
and esteem of his fellow men by his own intrinsic worth and merit, and
such a sterling citizen Mr. Witter undoubtedl.v is. He has made the
interests of his community those of his own, and while he has not served
in public offices has aided in securing good men and measures for his
community, tlnis contributing materially to its welfare. In his political
views he is a Republican, while his religious connection is with the Meth-
odist Episcopal church.
On February 16. 1888, Mr. Witter was married to IVIiss Susie Shank-
lin. bom near Cottage Grove, Indiana, daughter of John and Pannie
562 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
(Jliller) Shanklin, who came from Butler eouuty, Ohio. ilr. aud
Mrs. Witter have no children.
Alva Thorn, one of the most progressive and successful agricultur-
ists of Madison county, is the owner of a handsome farm of 260 acres,
located in Van Buren township, and has the added distinction of be-
longing to that class of self-made men of which this county is justly
proud. His methods of farm management show sound judgment com-
bined with deep scientific knowledge of his vocation, and the results of
his labors demonstrate the fact tliat high-class farming as an occupation
may be, made prolitable as well as pleasant. He has been a resident of
this region throughout his career, and during this time has liriuly estab-
lished himself in the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens through
his public spirit and strict integrity.
Alva Thorn was born on a farm in Van Buren township, ]\Iadison
county, Indiana, and is a son of Charles and Eliza (Knight) Thorn. His
father, a native of Illinois, came to IMadison county as a joutli with his
parents, Stephen and Jane (Lewis) Thorn, the former of whom entered
land here from the United States government and continued to follow
agricultural pursuits throughout his life. Charles Thorn followed in
the footsteps of his father, adopting the vocation of tilling the soil, and
through a life of industry and perseverance succeeded in becoming a
substantial and intlueutial man of his community. He and his wife
were the parents of five children : Alice, who married Marisou H. John-
son and is now deceased; Zina, who became the wife of James M. Gilmer ;
Elizabeth, who died in girlhood ; Mary, who married Geo. Underwood ;
and Alva.
Attending the district schools of Van Buren township during the
short winter terms and devoting the rest of the .year to helping his
father in cultivating the home farm, the bojiiood of Alva Thorn was
passed in much the same manner as that of other Indiana farmers' sons
of his day, and when he reached the age of twenty-one years he was thor-
oughly prepared to engage in the battles of life. He started his career
as a farmer on a tract of land rented from his father, a part of the old
home place, but subsequentl.y purchased a property of his own, to which
he has siuce added by purchase from time to time. On this land he has
erected good and commodious buildings, including a comfortable modern
residence not far from Sunnnitville, and various other improvements
have made this a very desirable property. In addition to being a suc-
cessful general farmer, he has met with a gratifying success in breed-
ing hogs and cattle, and as a business man is recognized as being pos-
sessed of more than ordinary ability.
Mr. Thorn was married March 22, 1888, to Miss Martha J. Johnson,
of Van Buren township, daughter of Reuben and Sarah (Hastings)
Johnson, old settlers of ^ladison county. Mrs. Thorn is a native of
Grant county, Indiana, born August 30, 1863, the fifth in a family of
seven children, two sons and five daughters, namely: Daniel B., a resi-
dent of Grant county, an agriculturist and manufacturer ; Sophronia B.,
the widow of Andrew Dickey and a resident of California, and she has
four children, two sons and two daughters; JIary E., wife of William
R. Lewis, a resident of Grant county and a shoemaker by trade ; Robert
R., a resident of Van Buren township, an agriculturist and mamed;
Mrs. Thorn, next in order of birth ; Amanda M., wife of Wilson T.
Leach, a resident of Madison county and an agriculturist : and Nancy
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 563
A., deceased. Reuben Joliusoii, tli* father, was a uative of Indiana and
by vocation was an agriculturist. He was educated in the common
schools, was a Democrat politically and was a member of the Independent
Order of Oddfellows. Both he and wife were members of the Missionary
Baptist church. Mr. Johnson dieil in 1901, aged sixty-five, and Mrs.
Johnson is now a resident of Fairniount, Indiana. Siie was born in Indi-
ana, ilrs. Thorn was reared and educated in her native county and she
has faithfully performed the duties of wife and mother in establishing
their nice and pleasant home. When she and her husband began their
married life they had but little cash capital, but a large fund of
ambition and aggressiveness to make their way independently, which
they have done, and they have the respect of their many friends. Their
pretty home is known as "Fair View." 'To their union have been born
three children : Claudia B., who married Otto Carmony, and is engaged
in farming in Van Huren township and they have one little daughter,
Nilma Irene; ^'edah Pauline, who married Walter Kirkwood, of Fair-
mount township, and has one son, Hubert D. ; and Simon C, who is at-
tending the public schools in tile eigiith grade. The family is connected
with the Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which Jlr. Thorn
takes an active interest.
il.\RTiN M. Beesun. In America, pre-eminently a land of self-made
men, opportunities for achieving success are to be found as in no other
land. The youth of energetic spirit, ambitious nature and industrious
habits may here establish a position for himself in any of the various
vocations of life, provided that he respect the principles of integrity and
honorable dealing, for his fellow-citizens will quickly recognize and ap-
preciate the force of character and persistent determination which have
enabled him to work his way from a humble position to one of independ-
ence and prominence. Madison countj- is fortunate in that it numbers
among its best citizenship many men who have been the architects of
their own fortunes, and in this class undoubtedly stands Martin j\I.
Beeson, of ^'an Buren township, the owner of a valuable tract of 120
acres of land, located on the Thorn road, about four and one-half miles
north of Sununitville. Mr. Beeson is a native of the Hoosier State, hav-
ing been born in Johnson county, October 29, 1867, and is a son of Isaac
and Emma (Hendricks) Beeson.
Isaac Beeson was a native of Wayne county, Indiana, from whence
he removed to Johnson county, and in 1875 came to Madison county,
his subsequent agricultural operations being carried on in Boone and
Van Biiren townships. He became a substantial citizen and moderately
successful agriculturist, and died in Van Buren township October 10,
1912. Of the family of eight children, M. M. is the last survivor.
M. M. Beeson was seven years of age when he accompanied his par-
ents to jMadison county, and his education was secured in the public
schools of Boone township. During the i)eriod of his educational train-
ing, he spent the summer seasons in assisting his father on the home-
stead, and after he left school continued to remain under the parental
roof until reaching the age of twenty-three years. His entrance upon
a career of his own as an agriculturist occurred wh^'n he rented a tract
of land in Van Buren township, and for fifteen years he worked faith-
fully and industriously, carefully saving his earnings with the end in
view of becoming himself a land-owner. In 1906 he realized his ambi-
tion when he purchased his present property, a fann which he has since
564 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
developed iuto one of the best of its size in the township. He has en-
gaged successfully in general iariuing and has also luet with prosperity
in his stock raising ventures, his well-fed cattle invariably bringing good
prices in the markets. Thoroughly versed in modern methods, he has
neglected no opportunity to familiarize himself with the advancements
which have been njade in his vocation in recent years, and his property
gives ample evidence of the presence of thrift and good management.
He is a worthy representative of the farming interests of iladison
county, and throughout his career has been interested in the growth
and development of this region, doing all in his "power for its progress
and development.
On October 5, 189U, Mr. JJeeson was united in marriage with Miss
Laura M. Nutt, and to this union there have been born seven children :
Lennet and Russell, both deceased, Elva, Ennua, Orville, JMarie and
Murray. Mrs. Laura M. Beeson is a native of Union county, Indiana,
bom May 15, 1869, the eldest of six children — four sous and two daugh-
ters born to Levi and Harriett (Knowlaud) Nutt — and all the family
are living at present (1914), namely: Mi-s. Beeson; Nelson, a resident
of the far west and by trade a decorator ; Clara, residing in Sum-
mitville, Indiana ; George, a resident of the Republic of Mexico and a
carpenter; Arthur, a resident of Salt Lake City, Utah; and Clj'de, a
resident of Van Buren township, married and an agriculturist. Mr.
Nutt, the father, is a native of Union county, Indiana, and was educated
in the common schools. He was a soldier in the Civil war for four years.
Politically he is a Republican and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
church. Mrs. Nutt is a native of Butler county, Ohio, and she and her
husband are retired in life and reside in Summitville, Indiana. A re-
markable fact in the Nutt family is that there has never been a death
within its circle, ilrs. Beeson was educated in the common schools.
She is a worthy matron over one of the beautiful homes in northern
Madison county, and she and her husband enjoj' the high esteem
of all who know them. In his religious faith Mr. Beeson is identified
with the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belongs.
He is a Democrat, but has taken no active part in political matters. His
modern residence is located on Summitville Rural Free Delivery Route,
No. 26, and near the home is located the handsome new barn, built to
replace the original structure, which was destroyed in a disastrous fire,
August 31, 1912.
Rev. Balth.^sar Biegel. The cross and the emblems of the Catholic
church were exhibited in Elwood many years ago, when the first Mass
was celebrated in the house of John Buchanan, then situated on the
corner of Main and Sixteenth streets, and thereafter services were fre-
quently held in what was called "The Section House," which was later
removed to South B street and is now occupied by Mrs. William Rooney.
Durins these pioneer days the Holy Sacrifice of the ^lass was also
offered up in the house of Bernard Bauer, then on East Main street, at
the home of Gustav Kramer on South Anderson sti-eet. and in that of
Bridget Smith, located two doors east of the present site of the St.
Joseph's Church, and now owned by William Fessler. Prior to 1860 the
village wa.s. at irregular intervals, visited by missionary priests, these
Ijold and stMf-denying workers, including Father ]\Ialoney. Father Clark
and Father Fitzmaurice. who came from Indianapolis. Lafayette and
Ander.son to minister to the spiritual needs of the few scattered Cath-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 565
olics. In ISfjO tlie place became ^ station and tlieivat'ter was regularly
attended on week da^-s by Father MciMahoii, who was pastor at Anderson
from ISbt) to 1865. During Father McMahon's time, two lots, eacii 66x132
feet, were purchased from William Barton and Peter Well, then on
Simmons, but now South A street, each costing sixty dollars. The money
for one lot was raised by the Catholic people, ami for the other it was
borrowed from John and Thomas Smith, and the deal was made by
Father McMahon and John Buchanan in 1862. Father McMahon was
succeeded by Father J. B. Crawley, who attended Eiwood from 1865
to 1884 while residing at Ander.son, and under his charge the station
became a mission, and was attended once a montli, on Sundays. In
February, 1880, the little flock decided to build a church, as the following
statement by Father Crawley indicates, this being at the same time
the first record of the pari.sh that can be found, viz: "Eiwood, Madison
county. February 3. 1880. Be it hereby known that on this date of Feb-
ruary 3, 1880. Bernard Bauer of Eiwood and James Cornelius of Cur-
tisville, were duly elected by the vote of the Catholic congregation of
Eiwood ami vicinity, treasurer and secretary respectively, and are em-
powered to collect and hold funds for the erection of a Catholic Church
in Eiwood, guaranteeing sufficient security to collect and hold same."
Steps were innnediately taken to raise money by subscription and fes-
tivals for the erection of this first church, which was a brick structure,
25x40 feet, witli a small vestry, 10x10 feet on the east side. The build-
ing, the estimated cost of which was $1,500, was completed in the fall
of 1881 and was dedicated by Bishop Dwenger. At that time the follow-
ing families constituted the parish : Bernard Bauer, John Besch, John
Buchanan, James Conner, James Cornelius. Frank (lieselbach, Patrick
Healy, James Kelly, Gustav Kramer, Daniel O'Brien. John Doyle, Pat-
rick Dugan, John Finan, James Gallagher, Michael Gavin, Patrick Red-
dington, William Rooney, Patrick Shay, Bridget Smith and Richard
Wilson. Father Crawley is still held in grateful remembrance by the
few surviving old settlers. He made many trying and irksome trips on
the handcar visiting Eiwood and other missions from Anderson. Father
F. C. Wiechman succeeded him, and attended the Eiwood mission from
1884 to 1889, Vvhile he was pastor of Anderson. He attended the place
on the fourth Sunday of each month and enjoyed great popularity
among all classes.
In 1889 the mission was raised to a parish with Rev. Balthasar Biegel
as the first resident pastor, the appointment going into effect Sunday,
July 28, 1889. This also was the first appointment of Rev. Father Biegel,
who had just been ordained in June of the same year. Eiwood, now a
city of twelve thousand inhabitants, at this time numbered only eight
hundred inhabitants, but the village had before it a promising future and
prospects of a rapid growth. Natural gas had just been discovered in
this locality and industries were looking for locations. The history of the
city dates back to March 1. 1853, when it was laid out as a town by James
Anderson. Mark Simmons, and J. B. Prazier, and called Quincy, but
to avoid confusion in the mail, the name was changed to Eiwood, July
21, 1869. The history of the Catholic church has been contemporaneous
with that of the city. The fir.st Catholic settler who came to the vicinity
was Patrick Shay, a native of Ireland, who pas.sed away an honored
citizen ^March 10, 1907. When, in 1857. the Pennsylvania railroad was
built through Eiwood. about half a dozen other Catholic families came
to the village, being of sturdy Irish and German nationality. At t'
566 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
time of Rev. Father Biegel's appointment, Bishop Dweuger said: "El-
wood is now a small mission, but it will soon be a large parish. You will
have a great deal of hard work to perform, and I may have to give you
a little hnancial aid in the beginning. Let me know when you need it."
However, the generous people of Elwood managed to keep their pastor
above water, and never let him want for anything, and the assistance
offered by Fovt Wayne was never needed.
Father Biegel said his lirst mass at Elwood, Sunday, Jul> 28, 1889,
on whicJi day Father VViechman made his farewell address. He preached
his first sermon to the parish on August i, 1889, and selected for lus
text the words: "Pax Vobis," •"Peace Be to You;" and peace and
harmony have ever been blessings to St. Joseph's Parish, and have, no
doubt, been the real secret of its success. Immediately after the ap-
pointment of the new pastor, the congregation set to work to build a new
priest's house. It was a neat, cozy, one-story, six- room house, built west
of the little church, and cost $1,000. The rapidly increasing member-
ship of the parish necessitated mure room for church purposes, and in
the spring of 1892 it was decided to enlarge the old church to three times
its former size, this being done at a cost of $2,500. In the fall of 1892
the enlarged and remodeled church was dedicated by Very Rev. JM. E.
Campion, delegated by Right Rev. Joseph Dwenger, who was ill at
the time. During the same year a bell was purchased, and was blessed
by Rev. J. H. Bathe, delegated by the Bishop. In 1891 a parochial school
was established, a one-room, frame building, costtug $700, north of the
church, and in September of this year it was opened with an attendance
of eighty pupils. Miss Margaret Murphy was placed in charge of this
parochial scbool, while Father Biegel assisted in the work, taking classes
to the parsonage. In 1893 a second room was added and was placed in
charge of .Miss Margaret Cauiey, the addition costing about $800. The
number of children attending the parochial school continued to increase
so rapidly that the two teacliers could no longer do justice to them, and it
became necessary to secure more teachers and to place the school on a
more sj^stematic basis. The time to place the school in care of one of the
many religious orders had arrived, and the Sisters of St. Joseph's Acad-
emy, Tipton, Indiana, were engaged to take charge of the school, coming
in September, 1894. On February 14, 1894, the school house had been
damaged by a fire which originated in a defective chimney, and the
entire roof was destroyed and school had to be continued in the church.
The building was immediately rebuilt, and a second story, with two
rooms, was added at an approximate expense of $1,000. In the fall
of 1899 a high school department was added to the school, and it became
iieeessai-y to take two of the lower grades to the church in order to ac-
commodate all the children. On January 29, 1911, Father Biegel made
a proposition to erect a new school building, the old one having been
but temporary, and the parish cheerfully consented to the movement
and it was determined to erect a modem school building at a cost of
$45,000, which is now in course of constiniction. Not only the Catholics
of the city, but those of other creeds and denominations, supported the
cause by "liberal contributions, and at this writing (191:?) more than
one-half of the money needed has been raised. Alfred Grindle, of Indian-
apolis, is tlie architect, and Frank IMedland, of Logansport. the con-
tractor.
In the fall of 1896 it became imperative to provide for more suitable
living (inarters for the Sisters. The parish decided, therefore, to con-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 567
vert the priest's house into a eoiiveiit for them, and to erect a new
pastoral residence. It must here be said, that in the spring of 1894 a
piece of ground, equal to eiglit hirge city lots, adjoining the original
ciiurcii property, was purchased of Gustav Kramer at a cost of $1,000,
Mr. Kramer receiving $500 in cash and being given a funded High Mass.
The ground was at that time considered of much greater value, hut Mr.
Kramer sold it at this reasonable price because it was intended for church
purposes. On the west line of this newlj- accjuired property, a new par-
sonage was built at a cost of .$3,000. It is a twelve-room building
and furnishes ample accommodation for the pastor and his guests. The
congregation introduced the pastor into the new priest's house with a
joyful "house warming," October 3, 1896, after which the old parson-
age was turned over to the Sisters.
For a number of years it had been the ambition of the people and the
pastor to build a new church to meet the reiiuirements of the growing
parish, and as early as 1894 they began to accumulate funils for this
purpose. Their dream was tinally to be realized, when in the spring of
1899, ground was broken for the new edifice. The massive basement,
twelve feet in height, built of Bedford stone, was completed during the
same year. The corner-stone of the new edifice was laid on the eighth
day of Octobei', 1899, by Very Rev. John H. Guendling, then administra-
tor of the diocese of Fort Wayne, Bishop Joseph Rademacher, the succes-
sor of Bishop Dwenger having died. Some five thousand people attended
the celebration and societies from all parts of the state participated in a
grand parade. During the year 1900 the super-structure was built, and
the following year the chui-ch was completed in all its details, and was
dedicated to the honor of God on July 14, 1901, l)y Right Rev. H. J.
Alerding, Bishop of Fort AVa3nie. AVilliam Gettinger of Union City,
Indiana, was the architect of the structui'e. The basement was built by
August Gleitze of Logansport, Indiana, and the super-structure by Med-
land Brothers of that city. Lute Douge, of Elwood did the plastering,
and Fred Ryan of Anderson, had the contract for the interior wood
work. The steam heating apparatus was installed by J. H. Asire, of
Logansport. The building is in the Romanescpie style of architecture,
built of brick and stone. It is 132 feet in length, inside measurement, 56
feet wide in the nave, 66 feet across the towers, and 70 feet across the
vestries. The tower at the southeast corner is 138 feet high, while the
other one rises lol feet above the sidewalk. The interior ceiling is 41 feet
above the floor, which slopes gradually and imperceptibly to the altars.
While the structure is beautiful on the outside, it is within that the great
amount of money and pains have been applied. The entrance to the
church is through three massive stone doorways, set between the two
towers. Just inside them is a roomy vestibule, with the baptistry to the
left. Entering the auditorium proper, a veritable feast of art and beauty
greets the eye. On the high ceiling, four upon each side, have been
painted eight life-sized pictures of saints, representing the eight beati-
tudes. The figures which represent the beatitudes, are in their order
as follows: St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis de Sales, St. Mary ^lagda-
lene, St. Boniface. St. Vincent de Paul, St. Aloysius, St. Elizabeth and
St. Stephen. In the sanctuary, above the altar, are the figures of the
four evangelists, ^Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. In the organ gallery
are paintings of St. Rose of Lima, the first American Saint, and St.
Philomiiia. the patroness of working girls. Above the proscenium arch,
on a scroll, is a Latin inscription, which translated into English means,
Vol II— u
568 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
"Behold the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sins of the world.''
The fresco work forms a fitting background for the paintings, and the
blending of the colors is such as to produce a friendly and cheerful
effect. This work was done by Leber Brothers, of Louisville. Kentucky,
students of the art schools of Italy. The art glass windows, which cost
more than $3,000. are arranged in pairs beginning at the entrance.
On the east side the first window represents tlie birth of Christ, the
opposite one representing His death. The next east window .shows
St. Patrick preaching the Gospel, while its counterpart yives tin- Good
Samaritan practicing the teaching of the Saviour. The third pair rep-
resents the Apparition of the Blessed Virgin and the Apparition of the
Sacred Heart of Jesus. The west window, next to the altar, represents
the Angel Gabriel ainiouncing to Mary that she is to be the Mother of
Jesus, while in the opposite window is shown the Angel Guardian. Over
the sanctuary there is a window representing the Holy Ghost in the form
of a dove. This is surrounded by twenty-four lights, and makes a sur-
passingly beautiful showing at night. The circular window in the
organ loft shows St. Cecelia, the patroness of church music. All of
the large side windows have three small panels below them, the one in
the center containing the emblem of the society which donated them,
while on each side are boquets of St. Joseph's lilies emltlematic of the
patron saint of the church. These lilies are also used extensively in
the decoration of the walls and ceilings. The windows were all made by
the Artistic G4ass Painting Company, of Cincinnati, Ohio, the figures
being of glass imported from Switzerland.
All the ordinary church societies are affiliated with the parish. The
Rosary Society for the married ladies; the Young Jlen's and Young
Ladies' Sodality for the young people; the Holy Name Society for the
men, and the Society of the Children of Mary and the Infant Jesus
Society for the children. The Apostleship of Prayer has done its effec-
tive work in the parish since 1894. Besides these chtirch societies, fra-
ternal organizations, for men and for women, are also well represented.
The Catholic Benevolent Legion was organized April 9, 1893 ; the Ancient
Order of Hibernians, January 23. 1898 ; the Catholic Order of Fnrestei-s,
August 6, 1900; a council oif Knights of Columbus, May 16, 1903; the
Ladies' Auxiliary of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, December 5,
1898; and the Ladies' Catholic Benevolent Association, October 22,
1903. These societies have commodious and well furnished quarters,
with a reading room, and elegant apartments for innocent recreation.
A handsome pipe organ which is in keeping with the interior dee-
orations and furnishings adorns the organ gallery, while the various
altars and stations are beautiful in design and complete the decorations.
The church as it stands is valued at $60,000. Immediately afte?' the
dedication of the new church, the old one was remodeled for school pur-
poses, and the Sisters' convent was remodeled at the same time and an
extra story added to the building, these improvements costing in the
neighborhood of $2,000. When the church property was first purchased,
the ground was low and swampy, but was considered a very desirable
place on account of its location in the center of the city. It took 10,000
yards of earth to fill the lots and put them in proper condition, and the
grotinds are now among the most beautiful in the city. In the spring of
1905 a lot, 66x132 feet, across the street from the school, ith a brick
building on it, was purchased by the congregation, as was also a nine-
room house with a lot .50x132 feet, west of the parsonage. Conditions
HISTORY OF .MADISON COUNTY 569
were siu-h that tlie eliurcli should doutrol this property, the rent of which
now L'Oiistitutes a good source of revenue for the parish. The ch.urch
ground proper has a frontage of 350 feet on South A street, with the
jivcrage tlepth of 250 feet. A paved street passes the property, and a
rciiiciit walk, ten feet in width, extends along the entire frontage, which
iiiiprovenieiits cost appro.xiniately $3,000. For a long time a creek,
I'unning along the north line of the property, hatl been the cause of
)niich annoyance to the parish, but the difficulty was finally remedied,
satisfactoril}- and definitely, by a retaining wall 280 feet in length,
which was constructed jointly by the city of Elwood and St. Joseph's
congregation, at a cost of .'j;l,50U. JIany ornamental trees and shrubs
have been planted, and the sjjacions ciiurch grounds now offer an ideal
])laci' for the schoolchildren 's plaj'-ground and for out-door social gath-
erings. The little "mustard seed" of thirty-two years ago has grown
to a majestic tree, and a conservative estimate places the value of all
the Catholic church property of Elwood at $150,000.
.Alan's body is a temple of the Holy Ghost. The bodies of Catholics
are anointed in the holy sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Ex-
treine Unction. They are taken to the church for the last blessing after
death, and it is the desire of the church that the mortal remains of prac-
tical Catholics should be buried in consecrated ground. For this reason
St. Joseph's parish purchased five acres of land one and one-half miles
south and one-half mile west of the city for a Catholic cemetery, at a
cost of $500. Several hundred dollars worth of improvements have since
been made on the ground, and about 400 bodies have been buried there,
awaiting tin- summons of God to resurrection. The Very Rev. M. E.
Campion, at that time dean of the Logansport district of the diocese
of Fort Wayne blessed the cemetery in the fall of 1891.
Rev. Balthasar Biegel. whose untiring labors have made possible the
erection of this great structure, was born at Hanover Center, Lake
county, Indiana, August 6, 1866, and is a son of Peter and Theresa
Biegel, natives of Hesse Darmstadt. Germany. His paternal grand-
parents emigrated from Germany, and settled in Missouri, where they
died advanced in years, having had a large family, which included Peter,
Henry, David, John and Mary. The maternal grandparents, on coming
to the United States, located in Lake county, Indiana, where the father
died at the age of seventy-eight years, and his wife when eighty-nine
years of age. They became the parents of four children : Theresa. John,
Elizabeth and Catherine.
Peter Biegel was a lad of about seven years when he accompanied his
parents to America, the first location of the family being at Strawtown,
New York. Soon thereafter, however, they came to Lake county, Indi-
ana, and here Mr. Biegel grew to manhood. He became a farmer, and
as such removed to New Cambria, ]\Iissouri, in 1873, and there his death
occurred in 1895, when he was fifty-seven years of age, his widow fol-
lowing him to the grave in 1908, when sixty-five years old. They were
the parents of ten children : John. Balthasar, George. Frank, Henry,
Mary, Helen. Margaret, Albert and Peter.
Father Biegel was baptized at St. John's Church, the mother church
of what now forms the Schererville district of the diocese of Fort
Wayne. He received his first Holy Communion at St. Martin's Church,
Hanover Centre, Indiana, October 3, 1880, and was encouraged by Rev.
William Berg, one time pastor of his native village, to study for the
priesthood. Preparatory to his course in college, he was given private
570 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
lessons in Latin and Greek by Father Berg and feels himself bound by
undying gratitude to this, his first zealous and model pastor. He later
entered St. Lawrence College, Mt. Calvary, Wisconsin, where he grad-
uated from the classical course in June, 1885. He then made his course
in Philosophy and Theology at St. P"'rancis Seminary, Milwaukee. Wis-
consin, and received minor orders, sub-deaconship and deaeonsliip from
Archbishop Heiss, of .Milwaukee, and was ordained priest by Bishop
Dwenger at the Cathedral of Fort Wayne, on June 15, 1889, with four-
teen months' dispensation, the required age being twenty-four years.
He celebrated his first Holy Mass on the feast of Corpus Christi, June
20, 1889, at St. John's Church, the church of his baptism. Immediately
after his ordination he was appointed first resident pastor of Elwood,
with Noblesville, Cicero, Mullin 's Settlement and Alexandria as missions.
In Elwood, Father Biegel's influence, always for the good, is felt
in every nook and corner. The respect which he inspired in the little
village on his arrival has not abated as the place has grown into a pros-
perous city, but is increased as time goes on. To the talents of a pastor
is added the learning of a scholar and literatteur, which, united with a
rare business tact and ability to govern, has made him already a con-
spicuous figure in the church and the state, and has gained him the con-
fidence, the good will and the love of all classes, denominations and
nationalities.
George F. Thurston. A man of enterprise, intelligence, and ex-
cellent business capacity, George F. Thurston, living two miles east
of Summitville, stands high among the wide-awake, progressive farm-
ers of this section of Madison county. A native of Boone township, Mad-
ison county, Indiana, he was born January 16, 1864, a son of John F.
and Margaret (Morris) Thurston, of whom a more extended notice
may be found elsewhere in this work, in connection with the sketch of
R. O. P. Thurston.
Educated in his native township Mr. Thurston attended the Dead
Dog school as a boy and youth, in the meantime obtaining on the home
farm practical experience in farming. Finding the occupation most
congenial, he rented the farm where he now lives a year before attain-
ing his majority, and began the battle of life for himself, taking up his
residence in the old log house standing upon the place. This farm
was entered from the government during the administration of Presi-
dent Jackson by Robert Spear, who erected the first frame blacksmith's
shop put up in this section of the state. At the end of two years of
successful farming Mr. Thurston received a sum of money from the
parental estate, and immediately invested it in land, buying the farm
which he had been renting. He has now one hundred and twenty acres
of rich and productive land, on which he has made improvements of
great value, including the erection of his fine residence and other neces-
sary farm buildings. He is carrying on general farming with satis-
factory results, making a specialty of raising Duroe-Jersey hogs, a
branch of industry which he has found pleasant and profitable. He is
one of the largest breeders of that grade of hogs in the county, from
his estate, which is known as the Duroc-Jersey farm, having shipped
in two years $7,000 worth of that breed.
Mr. Thurston married, in 1884. Sarah Etta Ellsworth, daughter
of Walker and ilartha (Harris) Ellsworth, and they have one child,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 571
Alva W. Thurston, who married Bessie Rutherford. Politically Mr.
Thurston is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Democratic party.
Levi P. Brown. Especially worthy of note among the active and
progressive men who have contributed so largely towards the develop-
ment and advancement of the agricultural prosperity of JMadison county
is Levi P. Brown, a well-known farmer of Van Bureu township. A
sou of the late John G. Brown, he was born on the farm where he now
resides, his birth having occurred on October 31, 1857. Born in Rush
county, John G. Brown obtained the rudiments of his education in the
puiilie schools of his native district, and completed his studies in the
rural schools of .Madison county. Subseciuently purcliasing a tract of
land in Yan Buren township, he began the improvement of a farm,
and was there busily engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death, at
a comparatively early age, in 1871. To him and his wife, whose maiden
name was Sarah Allen, seven children were born, as follows: Cather-
ine J.; Levi P.; Mary E., deceased; Nancy Ellen; Sam'l R. ; George
W. ; and John H.
Brought up on the parental homestead, Levi P. Brown first attended
the Allen school, later continuing his studies in the township school.
While yet a boy he became familiar with the various branches of agri-
culture, and after the death of his father assisted his mother in the
management of the home place, which he now owns and occupies, he
having purchased the interests of the remaining heirs in the estate. He
was for many years very active and successful in tlie management of
his tine farm of one hundred and sixty -six acres, but having accumulated
a competency he has relegated the care of the estate to his son-in-law,
and is now living retired, enjoying a well-deserved leisure from busi-
ness affairs.
Mr. Brown married, September 22, 1880, Emma Florence Allen, a
daughter of Amos G. and Salina (Runyan) Allen. Their union has
been blessed by the birth of four children, namely : A child that died
in infancy ; Adah Mae, wife of Robert Broyles ; Garry, who lived on
the Brown farm, and had charge of its management ; and Lulu F.,
wedded A. E. Tomlinson and resides with her parents. Garry
Brown, the only son, married, September 22, 1910, Edna Trader, a
daughter of Harvey and Eldy (Woolen) Trader, and they have one
child, Dorothy Florence.
Religiously Mr. Brown is an active and influential member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he is serving as steward. Politi-
cally he is identified with the Democratic party, and is prominent in
public affairs, taking an intelligent interest in everything pertaining
to the improvement of the community in which he is Jiving.
Ch.\rles H. Allman. An enterprising and highly successful farmer
of Van Buren township, Charles Allman is a fine representative of
the native-born citizens of IMadison county, his birth liaving occurred.
September 16, 1883. on a farm lying two miles west of his present place
of residence, which is located four miles southeast of Summitville. His
father, John Allman, for many years- a prominent agriciilturist of Mad-
ison county, was bom and reared in Tipton county, Indiana, 1838. He
married Leaner Perry, who bore him ten children, as follows : Asbury,
Phoebe J., Maggie, Edna. William, John, Cora, Lorenzo, Charles, and
Mvrtle.
572 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Brought up in his uative township, Charles H. AUinan acquired his
education in the Allen school, and on the home farm was well drilled in
the agricultural arts. Choosing the iudepeudeut occupation which his
father so successfully followed, and satisfied that no better region for
general farming could be found in Indiana than that iu which he lived,
Mr. Allman bought eighty acres of laud that are now included in his
present estate of three hundred and twenty acres, and began its im-
provement. Successful in his undertakings, he has given his undivided
attention to its management, and each ^ear in the gathering of his
bountiful crops is rewarded for his toil and trouble.
On December 21, 1904, Mr. Allman was united in marriage with
Miss Bertha M. Thurston, who is one of the six living children of the
late Joseph and Mary B. (Welch) Thurston, who were the parents of
seven children. Mi-s. Allman was reared in county of Madison and edu-
cated in common schools with one term in the Summitville high school.
She is vice president of her Sunday school class. No. 2, at Summitville,
Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Allman have two children, namely : Estelle
Lucile and Paul T. Politically Mr. Allman is a Democrat, and reli-
giously both he and his wife are active and valued members of the
Christian church at Summitville.
Joseph E. Bradley. Industriously engaged in the prosecution of
a calling upon which the wealth and prosperity of our nation largely
depend, Joseph E. Bradley, a well-known farmer of Madison county,
has owned and occupied his present farm since 1900, and iu its manage-
ment has met with signal success. He was born August 19, 1851, in
Brown county, Ohio, a son of William Bradley, Jr. He is of English
ancestry on the paternal side, his grandfather, William Bradley, Sr.,
having immigrated from London, England, to the United States, set-
tling in Ohio.
William Bradley, Jr., was born and reared in Brown county, Ohio.
Early in life he migrated to Missouri, taking his family with him, hop-
ing there to find a more favorable opportunity for advancing his finan-
cial condition. Not satisfied with the change, he subsequently returned
East, locating in Indiana, where both he and his faithful wife spent
the closing years of their lives. He married Susan Sells, and to them
eleven children were born, as follows: Harvey, deceased; Joseph E.,
the subject of this brief sketch; Susan, deceased; Harzella; William;
John ; Addie ; Samuel ; Martha ; Lincoln ; and Cora, deceased.
Obtaining the rudiments of his education in the district schools of
Ohio, Joseph E. Bradley subsequently attended school in Missouri for
awhile, later completing his studies in Indiana. In March, 1901, he
took up his residence in Madison county, and has sipce been numbered
among its citizens of worth. A farmer from choice, he rented land a
number of years, but in 1900 bought from William Davis his present
farm of eighty acres, located just at the edge of the city of Summitville,
on the Bradley Gravel road, and as an agriculturist is meeting with
gratifying results, each year reaping abundant harvests of the crops
common to this part of the state.
Mr. Bradley married, in 1882,. Martha Wilson, who died in 1909,
her body being buried in Eden Cemetery, in Hancock county, Indiana.
Three children were bom of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley:
William E., who was graduated from the Summitville High School, and
I
HLSTOKV OF MADISON COUNTY 573
was just at the point ol euteriiig tbe law school when his untimely death
occurred July 11, 19U2.
The following excerpt is taken from the eulogy dedicated to his son
at the time of his demise : " ' Into the peace and happiness of a bright and
sunny day burst the gathering storm. It passes quickly, but ere 'tis
guue it scatters sorrow and gloom to its unhappy victims. Young Mr.
Bradley departed this life at his home, aged nineteen years, just in the
tlower of young mauliood with all the promises of tender and mature
manhood. He graduated from the common schools of Center township
in Madison county in IH'Jti and at the Marion High School, also at the
Summitville High School in 1902. He would have entered Indiana Uni-
versity in the fall of 1902 bad he Uved. He united with the United
Brethren church in 1898. In bis school work he was ever faithful and
was loved by both teachers and pupils. He spent most of his life in
Madison county. He came of the best of parentage and bis young Life
was a model for other young men to pattern after. His loss is sadly felt
in the community of Summitville, Indiana, and bad he lived, no doubt he
would have written his name high in the scroll of honor. ' '
-Margaret, wife of Dr. A. L. Thurston; and Alinuie, living wtib her
father, are the living children of Mr. and Mrs. Bradley. Fraternally
Mr. Bradley is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Order of
Masons, No. 691, and of the Knights of Pythias, Gas Belt Lodge, No.
361. Religiously be belongs to the United Brethren Church, while his
daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
George W. Brown. A prominent and successful agriculturist and
stock-raiser of Madison county, George W. Brown is the owner of a well-
apfKjinted and well-managed farm in Van Buren township, bis native
place, where be holds a position of note among the substantial farmers
of his community, his farms being on the G. W. Brown road, about four
miles from Summitville.
His father, the late John G. Brown, was born in Rush county, but
as a boy came with bis parents to Madison county, where he grew to
man's estate. Subsequently purchasing land in Van Buren township,
he carried on farming until his death, in 1871. He married Sarah Allen,
and they became the parents of seven children, namely : Catherine J. ;
Levi P.. of whom a brief biographical sketch may be found on another
page of this volume; Mary E., deceased; Nancy E.; Samuel B. ; George
W., the special subject of this sketch; and John H.
Completing bis early education in the public schools of his native
township, George W. Brown turned his attention to agriculture, and at
the age of twenty years rented his mother's place, and began farming
on his own account. Fortune smiled on his earnest efforts, and as bis
means increased he bought adjoining land, and is now the owner of a
productive farm of one hundred and forty-eigbt acres, his estate in its
appointments and improvements comparing favorably with any in the
vicinity. A man of ability and integrity, Mr. Brown takes an intelli-
gent interest in political affairs, and is a trustworthy member of the
Baptist Church.
Mr. Brown married, April 13, 1889, Eda J. Painter, daughter of
Silas P. Painter, who owns and occupies a fine farm on the S. P. Painter
road, about four miles southeast of Summitville.
Mr. Painter was bom December 4, 1835, in Henry county, Indiana,
of Virginia ancestry. His parents, George W. and Ira (Marsh) Painter,
574 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
came from Virginia, their native state, to Henry county, Indiana, in
pioneer days, and having bought a tract of wild land cleared and im-
proved a homestead, on which they spent their remaining years. They
were the parents of twelve children, as follows: Samuel D., deceased;
Silas P., father of Mrs. Brown; George A.; William B. and James A.,
deceased ; Martin A. ; Lewis ; Mrs. Rosaima Kelley and Sarah Almariue,
deceased; Noah; Peoria; and Mrs. Janie Rumberg.
Silas P. Painter attended first the district schools of Henry county,
completing his early studies in Madison county. As a young man he
rented the farm where he now lives, and managed it so ably that he was
enabled after a few years to buy the entire property, which he has
placed under a good state of cultivation, having cleared the greater
part of it from its primitive wildness. Energetic and enterpi'ising as a
young man, Mr. Painter not only carried on general farming with ex-
cellent pecuniary results, but for some time operated a saw mill, and for
one year owned and operated a threshing machine. Among the valuable
improvements he has made on his place is the building of his house,
which is situated on the north side of the Silas P. Painter road, which is
the main thoroughfare to Gaston, Indiana.
Mr. Painter married, January 19, 1863, Dorcas Heritage, and of their
union nine children were born, as follows: Mary, Elizabeth, Lucinda,
Eda J., George David Lot Leonidas, Perry, and three children that died
in infancy. Mary, wife of Thomas Hunt, has had three children, Prank ;
a child that died in infancy and Talmage. Elizabeth married first Rob-
ert Atkinson, by whom she had three children, Lester ; Birdie ; and Lot-
tie, deceased. Elizabeth married for her second husband Al Shields,
and of that union three children have been born ; a child that died in in-
fancy ; Ina ; and Silas H. Lucinda Frances, who died in Madison
county, married C. E. Brandon. Lot L. married Delia Webster, a
daughter of Geo. W. and Olive (Vinson) Webster, and they have one
child, Pauline Josephine.
Mr. and Mrs. Brown are striving to give their children good educa-
tions, fitting them for the higher walks of life. Their eldest child, Cletis
R., graduated from the public schools at the age of fourteen and also
graduated from the Fairmount High School. He then took the normal
course at Marion, Indiana, and afterward successfully taught school
one year in Madison county. He is now in his third year in Franklin
College and will graduate with the class of 1914. Agnes J. is also a
graduate from the public schools and the Fairmount Academy, and is
now a student in Franklin College. She has also taken musical instruc-
tions. The other two children are Dorcas and George P. Mrs. Brown
is a lady of cordiality and gentle manner, and her happy home is her
paradise. She received a good common school education and has always
been her husband's counselor at all times. Mr. Brown comes from one
of the old families of Madison county as does also his wife. He is a
Democrat politically and has always upheld the principles of that
party. He makes a specialty of "The Chester White swine and the
farm is known as "The Chester White Stock Farm."
Jame8 C. Hull. On the Hull gravel road about five miles northwest
of Summitville, is a farm which represents the sturdy industry and good
management of one of the best known farmer citizens of Madison county.
Mr. Hull has lived in this county for more than forty years as a farmer
and stock raiser, and beginning his career as a renter, and as a young
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 575
man fompk'tely depeudeut upou his owu resources for advaiicemert he
has made a success that might well be envied by his neighbors. At the
present time he is the owner of one hundred acres of tine land in Boone
township, and has won all his prosperity as a result of his well directed
efforts.
James C. Hull was born September 17, 1848, a son of Jesse and
Susan (Evans) Hull. His father, a native of Pennsylvania, first moved
to Ohio, first locating in Marion county, and afterwards went out to
Macon county, Illinois, where his death occurred. The mother also died
in ^lacon county. Their children were: Eliza, Joel, Mary and Rosella,
all deceased; James C.
James C. Hull spent a part of his youth in Macon county, Illinois,
where he attended the public schools, but finished his education in
Boone township of .Madison county. When he was twelve years old be
began his first practical experience "as a farmer. He soon afterwards
leased some timber land, and cleared the trees and brush from seven-
teen acres of it and raised two crops. With this beginning he went on
from one step to the next higher, and has steadily prospered. He finally
bought eighty acres of laud, and after selling that moved out to Missouri,
where he spent about two years. Then returning to Madison county,
he bought his present farm in Boone township. He has engaged in gen-
eral farming, and has improved the land so that it is several times more
valuable than when it first came into his possession.
On March 5, 1871, Mr. Hull married Elizabeth D. Ross, a daughter
of John N. and Caroline (Douge) Ross. Her father was one of the first
settlers of Madison county, having moved here from Rush county, In-
diana. The five children in the Ross family were : Martha, deceased ;
James B. ; Mrs. Hull, Josephine, deceased, Anna, deceased; and Mrs.
Kate Hodson.
The family born to Mr. and Mrs. Hull are described as follows:
Arthur V., who married ^label Bair, and lives in Washington state, has
four children, named Mildred, Forrest, Louis and Kenneth; John, who
married Ida Clary, and their children are Edith C. ; Helen Feme ; Joel
H. ; and Cecil Harold; J. Carey, at home; Maude M., deceased; Rosa
Madge, who married Roy Higgins, and has children, Wayne, Wilma and
Violet ; Emma D., who resides at home ; Harvey E., at home ; and F. Ray
at home. The family worship in the Church of God. Mr. Hull in poli-
ties is a Prohibitionist and a strong advocate of temperance.
Beet Mann. One of the young men of progressive enterprise whose
energies are contributed to the welfare of the community as well as to
the accumulation of a goodly share of material prosperity for them-
selves, is Bert I\Iann, of Boone towTJship. Mr. Mann is owner and occu-
pies a fine place of one hundred and forty acres, located about 61/0 miles
west of Summitville. There he carries on the solid industry which in
Indiana brings good crops, and a satisfying degree of prosperity, and is
not only providing well for his family, but is regarded as one of the
men of influence in his community.
Bert ilann was born in Howard county, Indiana, January 17, 1877,
a son of George and Ellen (Traitor) Mann. The father died when Bert
was a child, and there were three children in the family, the sister
being Lilly Runyon. Tony died aged two years. Bert Mann as a boy
attended school in his native county, and when he had completed the
course of study in the common schools, took up active work on the home
576 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
farm. When he was twenty years old he had the courage to marry the
girl of his choice, who was Miss Dora Bell Young, daughter of Ellison
and Laura Young. To their marriage have come four children, whose
names are: Myrtle N., Tressie E., Georgia E., and Zelpha. By their
united efforts Mr. and Mrs. Mann have been steadily prospering in the
past fifteen years, and now have much to sliow for their efforts. Mr.
Mann was formerly connected with the Gospel Workers Church, and
he and his family now attend the Friends church. In politics he is a
Prohibitionist. It is always a pleasure to speak laudably of a young
man when he has forsaken the haunts of pool rooms, billiard halls, and
places where disreputable characters abide. He endeavors to make a
place amongst the successful and honorable men, who become the back-
bone of literature, commercialism, mechanics and agriculture, the latter
the basis of the nation's prosperity, and to such a class of young Ameri-
cans belongs Mr. Mann of this brief review.
He, aided by his estimable wife, has one of the valuable farms in
Boone township, Madison county, and they have acquired this compe-
tency by their united efforts and they merit the respect and esteem of
all their many friends in Madison county.
Richard H. Brunt. A life long resident of Madison county, Rich-
ard H. Brunt has in later years somewhat retired from the strenuous
activities which brought him a large degree of material prosperity, but
still lives upon and enjoys his tine country estate in Boone township.
This farm consists of two hundred and forty acres of fine land, which
is situated about five and a half miles from SummitviUe, on what
is known as the Brunt gravel road, along the rural free delivery route
No. 24 out of SummitviUe.
Richard H. Brunt was born in Boone township of Madison county
about three miles west of SummitviUe, on the fifth of October, 1856.
His parents were Thomas and Sarah Ann (Lee) Brunt, both of whom
came from North Carolina. The mother was related to the same family
which produced so many eminent men of the south. Thomas Brunt
was a young man when he moved from North Carolina, and settled
in Madison county, about 1833. The land on which he settled he attained
from the government, and his patent was signed by President Andrew
Jackson. As a pioneer he contributed his labors to the improvement and
clearing of the land, and was a man of sturdy habits and wholesome influ-
ence in his community. In business he prospered, and before his death
had become one of the large land owners of Madison county. The ten
children in his family were as follows: William D.; James A. J.; Eliza-
beth Noble; Nathan, Mrs. Lydia Swindle and Mrs. Sarah F. Black, de-
ceased ; John R. ; Samuel F., deceased ; Marj' F. Hudson, deceased ; and
Richard H. Brunt.
Richard H. Brunt grew up in Boone township, and as soon as he had
reached the proper age he became a pupil in the schoolhouse near the
3ld farm. He finished his education at Osceola, Indiana. Farming
and stock raising has been the calling which he has pursued with much
diligence and success, and from boyhood to the present time has been
familiar with all the details and processes of country life. During his
earlier years he was associated with his brother in the management of
the home farm. He got his start by renting a piece of land from his
father, and gradually got ahead in the world and became independent.
Mr. Brunt was first married to Dora A. Runyan, who is now deceased
HISTORY OF AiADlSON COUNTY 577
and is buried iu the Alexander (*metery. The four children of their
uuion are : Samuel E. ; John C. ; Oscar H., who married Miss Blanch
McDermitt, deceased; aud A. J. Bruut, Jr.. who married Zola Neal and
has one child, Hazel Alice. The second marriage of Mr. Brunt united
him with Miss Carrie J. Thomas. Their two children are Loessie Hazel,
who wedded Wilbur E. Runyan, and Forrest Lee. Mrs. Brunt died
August ti, I'llL', and was laid to rest in the x\lexiinder cemetery.
Mr. Brunt is affiliated with the ludepeudent Order of Odd Fellows,
Sweetzers Lodge No. 475; with the Improved Order of Red Men, Neoska-
leta Tribe No. 14i) ; the Knights of Pythias, Gas Belt Lodge No. 361 ; and
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks at Alexander, No. 274.
The family have membership in the Christian church and all the male
members of the Brunt household are Democrats. Mr. Brunt has- i very
attractive and comfortable home with excellent out-buildings and ail the
equipment necessary for the conduct of a twentieth century farm. The
estate of Mr. Brunt is known as "The Cherry Grove Stock Farm."
Joel M. Jones. In Boone township, located on the rural delivery
route No. 22 out of Alexandria, Mr. Jones is one of the prosperous
young farmers, and is engaged iu the operation of one hundred and
twenty-five acres in his home place and owns considerable other land in
this township. He started out without much capital, did hard work as
his preparation for his successful career, and in later years has come
into a plane of quiet prosperity and the esteem of his community.
Joel M. Jones was born March 8, 1872, in Monroe township of Madi-
son county. His parents were John H. and Mary M. (Vinson) Jones.
The father was also born iu Monroe township, and the Jones family
has been identified with this county since pioneer times. The father
was a farmer, owned considerable laud, and grew up aud was educated
in Monroe township. He is now deceased and his body was laid to rest
in Mt. Pisgah cemetery. There were only two children and the older,
William E., died in young manhood. The mother now makes her home
in Alexandria.
Joel M. Jones as a boy attended the Mount Pisgah school, and while
going to school also worked at home, and acquired a thorough knowl-
edge of all the activities of farming. His schooling was completed in
Boone township. At the age of twenty-two he had come into possession
of a farm of his own, formerly owned by his grandfather, Joel Jones,
who had come to Madison county from North Carolina.
Mr. Jones was married February 3, 1893, to Miss Anna Greenlee.
They are the parents of four children : Henry, deceased ; M. BeUe ;
Altha ; aud Harry. The family attend church at the Christian denomi-
nation and fraternally Mr. Jones is affiliated with the Improved Order
of Red Men, Tribe No. 149 ; the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, No.
475; and the Knights of Pythias, Gas Belt Lodge No. 361. He is a
Democrat in politics. His progressive industry has wrought many
improvements in his rural home, and he and his family have a comfort-
able home and one of the features about the place is the large new
barn.
James M. Parsons. In the life history of the late James M. Parsons,
one of Elwood's honored residents and substantial business men, is
found exemplifieation of the truth that success is the result of labor —
and untiring labor. Starting out in life with no advantages save those
578 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of an energetic nature, an inherent ability and a commendable determi-
nation to gain a position for himself in the world, he worked ceaselessly
and perseveringly, and became known as one of those belonging to the
class which can lay claim to the American title of self-made man. Mr.
Parsons was born in Butler county, Ohio, July 26, 1832, a son of James
and Sarah Ann (Ward) Parsons.
The paternal grandfather of Mr. Parsons, John Parsons, was prob-
ably a native of Maryland. He was a ship carpenter by trade, but
when he went to Butler county, Ohio, as a pioneer of that section, turned
his attention to agricultural pursuits, in which he was engaged during
the remainder of his life. The name of his wife is not remembered, but
it is known that he had two sons, James and "William, and four daugh-
ters, aniong whom was Ann. On the maternal side, the grandfather of
Mr. Parsons was Joseph Ward, a native of New Jersey, who spent his
life in the East. He had children as follows : Calvin, Luther, Amos,
Jonathan, Sarah Ann, Phoebe and Malinda.
James Parsons, father of James ^I. Parsons, was born in Maryland,
and there reared to manhood. As a youth he learned the trade of shoe-
maker, and for three years was a sailor, but eventually accompanied his
father to Butler county, Ohio, and settled near the city of Oxford. There
he engaged in farming until coming to Madison county, Indiana, in 1835,
and here he spent the remainder of his life, passing away in 1883, when
about eighty-three years old, while his wife died in 1860, aged sixty-five
years, and was buried at Comersville. They were Methodists in their
religious belief. Mr. and IMrs. Parsons had a family of seven children,
as follows: Charlotte Ann, who married Stephen Ball and makes her
home at Arapahoe, Oklahoma; Jonathan W., who is deceased; Martha,
also deceased, who was the wife of J. C. King, and later of John L.
Milner ; James M., of this review ; John Wesley, who met his death in
the battle of Murfreesboro, during the Civil war; George W., living at
Rigdon, Indiana; and Frances Marion, who died when six years of age.
James M. Parsons was about two years of age when brought to Indi-
ana by his parents, the family settling in Decatur county, where he
resided until he was twelve years of age, there attending the public
schools. They next located on a farm in Fayette county, and there he
made his home until May 3, 1853, when he joined the old circus company
of Spalding & Rogers, with which he traveled all over the United States
during the next five years, starting as property boy and later becom-
ing a performer. At the end of that time he had accumulated a fund
of experience that decided him against circus life, this experience includ-
ing being bitten on the head by an enraged lion. Accordingly he
returned to his home and adopted the vocation of shoemaking, a calling
which he followed for the greater part of his life. Mr. Parsons came to
Elwood in 1860, and here followed his trade until 1885, at which time
he was appointed postmaster, and after the expiration of his four-year
term was made deputy sheriff for two years and city marshal for four
years. After leaving the latter office he was engaged in shoemaking, and
at the time of his death had a modern establishment in the Adams Block,
No. 1515 Main street, and was enjoying an excellent trade. He was ever
honorable in his methods and painstaking in his work, and his reputation
was that of a thoroughly reliable man of business, and one who was to
be trusted to live up to his obligations. During his long residence here
he formed a wide acciuaintance, and in this he numbered scores of per-
sonal friends. The pleasant home is situated at No. 1353 South B. street.
^/^.n
<:^:--^'>^>^
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 579
On April 14, 1860, Mr. Pars©ns was married to Miss Caroline A.
Shafer, daughter of James and Frances (Ward well) Sliafer, and to this
union there were born children as follows: Ella, Jonathan C, Charles
M., Frank, James Edward, Joseph, William E., Ward, Maude and Bessie.
Of these, Ella lives in Indianapolis. She married Charles Mount, by
whom she had two children, both now deceased, as is Mr. Mount. For
her .second husband she married William Clark. Jonathan C, now super-
intendent of police at Elwood, Indiana, was a painter and paper hanger
in Elwood, where he married Lilly Long, and they have one daughter,
Beulah. Charles M., who is his father's partner in the shoemaking
business, married ]\Ietta P. Riley. Frank is a clothing salesman of Walla
Walla, Washington, and is the husband of Vessie Mount, by whom he
has two children — Elizabeth and Frances. James Edward died when
five and one-half years old. Joseph, a traveling salesman living in
Tacoma, Washington, married Ida Cheever, and they have one daugh-
ter, Karline. William E., a tailor, who died in 1906, married Caroline
Bentley, and they had four children, of whom two are now living — ■
Charline and Thomas. Ward, Maude and Bessie all died in infancy.
The first wife of Mr. Parsons, who was born in Butler county, Ohio, died
in 1878, aged thirty-four years, in the faith of the Methodist church.
Her father passed away in Elwood about 1893, while her mother is still
living, aged eighty -seven years.
On May 25, 1881, Mr. Parsons was married to Mrs. Nellie
Smith, who v^as born in Clermont county, Ohio, January 29, 1848, a
daughter of George and Mary Van Trump, natives of Ohio, who died
when Mrs. Parsons was still a child. They had seven children: John,
George, Ann, Benjamin, Nellie, Mollie and Lula. Mrs. Parsons married
Irvin Smith, who is now deceased. By her marriage with Mr.
Parsons there have been four children : Raymond K., who is in the
telephone and telegraph business at Phoenix, Arizona, married Mary
Steele, and has one daughter, Rosaline ; Chase J., a mail clerk in the
Elwood postoffice, who married Hazel Creagmile, and has one child,
Martha Nell; Leo, who is proprietor of a cigar store, Elwood, married
Gladys Yelvington ; and one child who died in infancy.
jirs. Parsons is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Parsons
belonged to Quincy Lodge No. 200, I. 0. O. F., and to the Knights of
Pythias. A Democrat in politics, he was stanch in his support of his
party's candidates and policies, and served four years as a member of
the city council and one term as a member of the board of township
trustees. James M. Parsons passed to his final reward May 19, 1913,
aged eighty years, nine months, twenty-three days. He lies buried beside
his children in Elwood cemetery.
Doctor B.vll D.wis, who resides on a fine farm in Stony Creek town-
ship is an honored pioneer of this locality, having been identified with its
interests for nearly sixty years. He has, therefore witnessed the many
changes which have transformed it from a wild and uncultivated region
into fine farms and comforteble homes, with here and there a thriv-
ing town in which the various industrial and commercial interests are
represented. He is a Civil war veteran and belongs to that class of
enterprisinsj energetic men to whom are due the progress and improve-
ment of the Hoosier State, and his finely cultivated farm indicates
in a measure the industrious and useful life he has led. Mr. Davis
was born on a farm three miles west of Connorsville, in Fayette
580 HISTORY OF MADlSOiN COLXTY
county, iiidiaua, Xovembfi- V3, 1840. and is a son uf Thomas .i. and
ilariah (haU) Davis, tlie I'oriner o! Virgiuia and tlie latlur oi (Jliio.
-Mr. Davis '.s parents came to Fayette county as young people and were
tliere married and in Xovember, ISui, eaiae to Madison county, here
spending the remainder of their lives. Tliomas J. Davis passed" to his
final reward .November 0, 1855, while liis widow survived hnu for many
years, her demise occurring February Itj, 18'J4. Tliey were the parents
of nine children, of whom seven are living at this time: William of
-Marion, Grant county, Indiana; James li., who lives at Anderson; D. B. ;
Sarah, the wife of Guthrie Morris; Elizabeth, single, and residing at
Anderson; Rachel A., of Anderson, the widow of John F. Whitiiiger;
and John E., also a resident of Anderson.
D. 1). Davis accompanied his parents to -Aladisou county in 1854, and
as his father died during the next jear, when he was a lad of but fifteen
years, his early education was somewhat neglected. However, in later
years, by study, observation and much reading, he has made up for his
lack of early chances, and now has a better education than many who
were granted much better opportunities. On settling on the new land,
the family found if covered with a dense growth of timber, and it became
the duty of the sons to clear, grub and prepare the land for planting,
and at this hard, manual labor, -Mr. Davis spent his youth and >oung
manhood. He was so engaged at the time of the outbreak of the war
between the northern and southern States, and with a number of other
patriotic young men of his neighborhood he enlisted in September, 1861,
in Company G, P^rty-seventh Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry,
which was assigned to the Army of the Mississippi. Although his service
covered more than four years, during which he participated in some of
the most bitterly-contested battles of the war, including the siege of
Vieksburg, ]\Ir. Davis was never taken prisoner, wounded or sick in the
hospital, and when he received his honorable discharge, in November,
1865, he had a record for bravery, faithfulness and devotion to duty
that was surpassed by no man of his command. The men of his coni-
l^any admireil him for his bravery and his officers respected him for the
reason that he could be absolutely depended upon to perform whatever
duty devolved upon him. It has been these characteristics, in large
measure, which have made him so .successful in his subsequent career.
His military career entitles him to membership in iMajor May Post No.
144, Grand -\rmy of the Republic, with which he is now connected, and
in which he and his comrades are wont to discuss and live over the inci-
dents and experiences of the days when secession reared its gorj' head
and the youth of the land were called upon to save their country's honor.
On October 6, 1867, Mr. Davis was married to Miss Matilda E. Eads,
who was born in Madison county, Indiana, September 12, 1848, and w^ho
died February 4, 1909. They became the parents of six children as fol-
lows: Brittie M., who became the wife of Josiah Morrison; Arthur C,
who married Harriet Werts ; Joslin E., who is single, and is engaged as a
bookkeeper in Dwiggins wire factorj- ; Bessie, who is the wife of Wilson
Newton and resides with her father ; Roscoe C, who married Julia
Unger; and Weaver B.. who married Nancy Marice. The meniliers of
this family are connected with the ^lefhodist Episcopal church, where
they have licen active in flie work of the Ep worth League and large con-
tributors to its various movements. Mr. Davis always was a Republican
until the campaign of 1912, at which time he transferred his allegiance
to the new l^i-ogressive party. He has never been an office seeker, how-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 581
I'ver, and only takes a "ood citizen's interest in matters of a public-
nature.
Since returning from the army, Mr. Davis has been almost contin-
uously engaged in agricultural pursuits, and his operations have been
attended by the utmost measure of success. At one time he was the
owner of 300 acres of land, but much of this has been distributed among
his cliildren, and he now has but 160 acres. He was also the builder of
the Davis tile factory in Stony Creek township, and continued to con-
duct that business from 1884 until 1904, when he disposed of his inter-
ests. At all times he has manifested a commendable desire to be of
benefit to his township and his fellow-citizens, an.d few men in the town-
ship have a wider circle of friends or stand higher in general public
esteem.
John George Hinderer. Since 1889 a resident of Anderson, Mr.
Hinderer has contributed in no small measure to the creative industry
of this city. Though he has spent many years and is known to many
local people chiefly as a market gardener, who supplies tables in hun-
dreds of homes with choicest of vegetables, he has a special genius in
mechanics, is an inventor of no mean ability, has manufactured musical
instruments in Anderson and elsewhere, and at his plant in the suburbs
is now making and distributing over a large territory some of the most
practical devices used in poultry and general farming.
John Ceorge Hinderer is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Clarion
county, April 25, 1858. His father was G. Hinderer, a native of Ger-
many. John Hinderer, a brother of G. Hinderer, came to America and
settled at Troy, Ohio. He is deceased. Other relatives of these two
brothers came to America, one named Chris, settling at Goshen, Indiana,
while Robert settled in Lafayette, Indiana, and Gottlieb was in Kanka-
kee, Illinois, and Frederick in Columbus, Ohio. G. Hinderer was reared
and educated in his native land, and while there served an apprentice-
ship in learning the trade of weaver. When his apprenticeship was
finished, he immigrated to America, settled in Clarion county, Penn-
sylvania, and for some time was employed there in an iron ore smelter.
After that he bought a fai-m one mile southeast of Lickingville, and be-
came identified with general farming. He also put in a loom and wove
woolens and linen goods for the local trade. Combining those industries
until 1870, he then sold his farm and moved to Ohio, buying another
farm at Troy, in ]\Iiami county. That was his home for five years, at
the end of which time he sold out and bought a place three miles north
of Greenville, in Darke county, and continued as a substantial farmer
until his death on September 3, 1891, at the age of sixty-six years. The
maiden name of his wife was Mary Anna Emminger. She was born in
Pennsylvania, a daughter of John George and Maria (Slater) Emmin-
ger, and a granddaughter of Chris Emminger, a native of Pennsyl-
vania, but of German parentage. The wife of G. Hinderer died May
5. 1900, at the age of sixty-four. She reared ten children named as fol-
lows: John G., Herman B., Lizzie, Jennie, Daniel, Matilda, Jacob S.,
Henry. Christie, and Minnie.
John George Hinderer while a boy had the advantages of the rural
schools of "Washington township in Clarion county, Pennsylvania. In
1867 he was enabled to go to Europe, where he entered the Eslingen Uni-
versity, at Eslingen, and took a course of three years in languages and
other "studies. At the end of that time he returned to America, and hav-
582 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ing a taste for mechanical work of the finer sort he located at Brattleboro,
Vermont, where he served an apprenticeship in the Jacob Estey Organ
factory. He was there five years, and became an expert workman, in
organ manufacture. From there he went to Ohio, and for a time was
employed in farming with his father until his marriage. He began
domestic life on a farm in Darke county, lived there two years, and sell-
ing out began the manufacture and trading in organs and pianos at
Greenville, Ohio. That business he continued with fair success until
1899, and then moved to Anderson. On the upper floor of the Hancock
and Ellison Building on Ninth Street, he established his organ factory,
and continued in the musical business until 1894. He put out a very
high grade of organs, and gave an individual touch to instruments such
as those made in the immense factory never received. In 1894 Jlr.
Hinderer rented a tract of land in the southeastern part of the city, and
began truck farming. On that place he also set up a little shop and began
making a rotary slaw and vegetable cutter, a machine which was a great
improvement over similar devices then in use. Five years later he was
able to buy the tract of land which he had previously leased, and has
since continued market gardening. In 1901 Mr. Hinderer began the
manufacture of the incubator known as the Excellent Incubator, and
since that time has made and distributed thousands of these articles.
To breeders and raisers of poultry, the Excellent Incubator is known
as one of the best of many on the market. In 1912, 'Sir. Hinderer has
added to his local industry by establishing a mill for the grinding of
corn and feed. His machinery is all operated by gasoline power.
On January 19, 1881, Mr. Hinderer married IMary Elizabeth Vorn-
holt. She was born in New Bremen, Auglaize county, Ohio. Her father,
John Vornholt, was a native of Hesse Cassel, Germany, and a son of
John Vornholt, who brought his family to America, coming in a sail
vessel that was six weeks between Europe and America. Grandfather
Vornholt was one of the pioneers of Auglaize county, Ohio, bought a
tract of land in the woods, hewed a farm from the wilderness and made
it his home until his death, John Vornholt, the father of Mrs. Hinderer,
was six years old when the family migrated to America. He was reared
in Auglaize county, amid pioneer surroundings, and after attaining
manhood secured a tract of eighty acres, three miles from New Bremen.
There he built a log house, and that was the home to which he took his
bride, and where all his children were bom. In the course of years
he improved an excellent farm, and continued to live there until his
death in 1893. He married Dorothy Bidemier. She was born in Amster-
dam, Holland. Her father was a soldier in the Dutch army, and died
while in service. After his death his widow and five children started
for America, taking passage in a sail vessel which had a long and tedious
voyage of liine weeks. The little family settled in Auglaize county. Ohio,
and the five Bidemier children were Hettie, William, August. Carrie
and Dorothy. The mother of Mrs. Hinderer died in 1903.
To the marriage of Mr. and ]Mrs. Hinderer were born four children,
named John G., Mary M., Lizzie D., and ^Martin L., and all are married.
Mary M. is the wife of Robert Langley, and has one son Clinton. Lizzie
married Samuel Farmer, and their three children are Bonita, Evelyn,
and Albert. Martin married Artie Greene, and has three children
named Jeanette, Paul, and Vivian. Mr. and ^Irs. Hinderer are of the
Spiritualist faith, and worship in the Spiritualist church in Anderson.
Mr. Hinderer has membership in the Knights of the Orient.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 583
Cassios C. Jacobs was born oH a farm in West Vincent township,
Chester county, Pennsylvania, on September 1, 1845. At the age of
five years lie moved with his jiarents and older sister to ^Madison eounty,
Indiana. He is the son of Charles P. and Esther A. Jacobs. The former
is a son of Thomas and Sarah Jacobs.
Charles P. Jacobs was born in Chester eounty, Pennsylvania, on Oc-
tober 6, 1S16, and died on October 6, 1901. He married Esther Ann Fu»-
sell, daughter of William and Jane Poulk Fussell in Chester county on
October 27, 1842, antl they came to Madison eounty, Indiana, on Novem-
ber 28, 1850, locating near Pendleton, Indiana; taking eight days to
make tlie trip, first by stage over the Allegheny mountains, then bj^ steam
boat down the Ohio river, then by train to Indianapolis from there tak-
ing farm wagon to Pendleton, Indiana, where they continued to reside
through the i-emainder of their lives. They became the parents of two
children : Elmira, born September 17, 1843, and who died on March
27, 186'), unmarried; and Cassius C. Jacobs of this sketch.
Cassius C. Jacobs came to Madison county at an early age and here
has passed his life from an early period. He attended the public school
lasting from two to three months in the year and working on the farm
and in his teens was able to attend the Normal school at Lebanon, Ohio.
He was twenty-eight years old when in 1873 he married Sarah A. Ver-
non and settled down to farm life. She is a daughter of Ederd B. and
Hannah (Rogers) Vernon, and she was born on January 23, 1850, and
educated in tlie common schools of Madismi county, Indiana. Her fa-
ther, Edward B. Vernon, was born in 1816, in Chester county, Pennsyl-
vania, and was married in 1843 in Madison eounty, having come here
about 1837. He made this eounty his home until his death on October
7. 1912. He was the father of twelve children, five of whom are living
at the present time.
As a member of the Republican party and an active worker in its
ranks, Mr. Jacobs as in past years on many occasions has given valued
service to the community in which he has lived. He was a member of the
board of supervisors for six years and proved himself a most efificient
member of that body. The one instance when Mr. Jacobs was separated
from the communal life of this township and from his farming activities
was when he located in Andei-son and New Castle, Indiana, and had
charge of a general agency for the Singer Sewing Machine Company.
He eventually reverted to his farming interests, however, and has since
been thus occupied in sawmilling, buying and selling logs and lumber
in connection with his farming, and he has enjoyed much success in the
industries. Mr. Jacobs has seen many changes in the life of the town-
ship in the years of his association with the community, and of those
who lived at Spring Valley and this part of Fall Creek when he first
came here, not one is living today in his school district.
Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs have twd sons, Arthur, born March 15, 1874,
who was married to Anna Williams: they have two children, Eva M.
and Edward W. Jacobs; and Charles Jacobs, born October 5. 1875. He
married Fannie D. Budgurs. and they have two children, also: Audra
M. and Horace Jacobs.
The Jacobs family through their long and praiseworthy identity
with the county of Madison, occupy an enviable place in the esteem and
regard nf the representative citizenship of the commnnities in which the
various members of the familv are known, and taken as a whole, may
584 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
well be said to be one of the standard type of resident that has borne so
worthy a part in the growth and upward development of the county.
Rev. Robert Sellers, pastor of the East Main Street Christian
Church, at Elwood, Indiana, was born near Franklin, Johnson county,
Indiana, February 10, 1857, and is a son of Nelson and Sarah T.
(Pritchard) Sellers. His paternal grandfather, Samuel Sellers, was a
soldier during the War of 1812, and subsequently became a pioneer of
Johnson county, Indiana, where he was for many years engaged in
farming, and where his death occurred in advanced years, burial being
made near Nineveh. He and his wife were the parents of six children:
Martin, Cynthia, Pollie, Sallie, Betsey and Nelson. On the maternal
side, the grandparents of Rev. Sellers were Lewis and Susan (ilartiu)
Pritchard, natives of Kentucky, aiid early settlers and farmers of John-
son county, where both passed away. Their children were : Curtis,
James, John, Robert, Nancy, Sarah T. and Jane.
Nelson Sellers was born in Indiana, and was reared in Scott county,
but subsequently went to Johnson county, where he secured a farm and
spent the rest of his life in making a home for liis family. A faithful
member of the Christian Church, and a loyal and public-spirited citi-
zen, he was widely known, and well merited the esteem in which he was
universally held. Born July 8, 1825, his death occurred January 6,
1901, while his wife, also a native of Indiana, was born February 16,
1830, and passed to her final rest November 1, 1905. They were the par-
ents of eight sons and three daughters, as follow's: William T., a resi-
dent of Indianapolis; Mary Elizabeth, who became the wife of 11. A.
Green, of Jacksonville, Florida ; John, who is now deceased ; Martin,
residing at Franklin, Indiana; Rev. Robert, of this review; Lewis N.,
living at Franklin ; Susan Jane, who became the wife of S. H. Broughton,
of Indianapolis ; Rev. Elmer, who lives in Logansport, Indiana ; Emma,
who is the wife of William Pangburn, of Franklin ; Dr. Blaine H., a
dentist of Indianapolis; and Dr. Samuel N., engaged in the practice of
dentistry at Clinton, Indiana.
Robert Sellers was reared on his father's farm in Johnson county,
and there received his early education in the district schools. Subse-
quently he attended Franklin College, and Butler College, at Irvington.
Indiana, and graduated from the latter institution in 1884. Following
this he read medicine for a short time, but in 1885 began preaching,
being first an Evangelist in Johnson county. Tipton became his first
pastorate, but two years later he returned to Johnson county, and from
there went to South Bend, where he was pastor of the Christian Church
for eight years. He subsequently spent two years at Ashtabula, Ohio,
and then returned to Irvington, where he became field secretary for
Butler College. Rev. Sellers' next charge was Greencasle, Indiana,
where he continued for three years, and in 1904 he came to Elwood,
where he is now serving his ninth year as pastor of the East ;\Iain
Street Christian Church, the congregation of which now numbers over
a thousand souls. Rev. Sellers is still in the prime of life, is active and
alert, and never tires of doing good for his beloved flock. He has
endeared himself to all classes, regardless of denomination or nationality,
and his influence, always for good, is found in every walk of city Ufe.
On February 24, 1886, Rev. Sellers was married to Miss Lauretta
E. Morgan, who was born in Johnson county, Indiana, daughter of
Madison and Mary Ann (McCaslin) Morgan, natives of the Hoosier
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 585
State who are both now deceased. Three children have been bom
to Kev. and Mrs. Sellers: Paul JM., of Elwood, who married Lola
Enders, and has three children — Dorothy, Richard and Donald;
Lucille, who married J. I. Spiugler, and lives in Franklin, and Robert,
who is a student in the Elwood High School.
Purl Dean. In the personnel of the live business men of the
thriving town of Suimnitville, Indiana, Mr. Dean, of the well known
firm of Dean & Tonilison, stands for progress, aggressiveness and
honesty in the execution of his business interests. He is known in Madi-
son county as possessed of rare business aeumen, which is a requisite
that is a direct aid in the advancement of any village, town or city.
Mr. Dean is a native of Madison county, Indiana, and was born
March 29, 1873, the only child born to his parents, Calvin and Dee
(Reed) Dean, both residents of Grant county, Indiana. The father
is a native of the Blue Grass state of Kentucky, and his life has been
spent as an agriculturist, although much of his time has been devoted
to the worktof an auctioneer.
Mr. Dean of this review has been reared in Madison and Grant
counties and received a good practical education in the public schools,
and the town schools. Most of his boyhood days were spent on one
of the pretty Indiana farms of North Central Indiana, and he well
knows the value of that training which the farmer lad receives, if
he wishes to lay the proper foundation stones of life. In business
he has been eminently successful. As an agriculturist he has met with
success, and in the buying and selling of horses he ranks with any
buyer in Madison county. Besides this he has followed in the foot-
steps of his father as an auctioneer, and his services are constantly
in demand. He has a splendid farm in Van Bnren township, contain-
ing excellent improvements, and for some years has been a member of the
firm of Dean & Tomlison, of Summitville, dealers in all the best makes
of buggies, wagons, plows and harness. In 1913 the firm erected one
of the best business houses in Summitville for the display of their goods,
containing light work rooms and offices, and the building is the pride
of the town of Summitville. Mr. Dean is an affable, genial, cordial
gentleman, and by his cordiality of manner wins many customers.
He is always ready to greet the stranger with a word of cheer and
good will, which is not thrown away.
He wedded Miss Maude North. September 19, 1881, a most estimable
lady, and to this union there has been bom one son, Rail, now a student
in the graded schools of Summitville. Fraternally Mr. Dean is an
honored member of the IModem Woodmen of America ; the Improved
Order of Red Jlen, Neo.skaleta Tribe, No. 149 ; the Orioles, Nest No. 8,
and the Order of the Eagles, Eyrie No. 1755. Mr. Dean and his family
are in sympathy with the teachings and doctrines of the United Brethren
church, and politically he is a Democrat. They are citizens who are
highly esteemed in the business and social circles of Summitville.
WiLLi.\M E. Thompson. Since the pionee days of Madison county
this section of Indiana has known and has been influenced by four gen-
erations of the Thompson family, and representatives of three genera-
tions are now living and are active workers in the business enterprises
of Anderson. The four generations of the family have alike been dis-
tinguished for exceptional business talent, enterprise and large public
586 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
spirit, and as individuals the.y have contributed many important serv-
ices to the life and activities of the couuty. William E. Tliompson &
Son are prominent in Andcison as contractors and builders, and many
of the fine business structures and other works are credited to their
industry and skill.
William E. Thomjjson, the head of the firm of William K. Thomp-
son & Son, of Anderson, was born in .Madison county, in the village
known as Prosperity, five miles north of Anderson, March 19. 1!S.j8.
His father, James A. Thompson, was born October 12, 1834, at .Milton,
Wayne county, Indiana. The grandfather was the Rev. William A.
Thompson, one of the rematkHble characters in the early history of In-
diana. His regular occu|>ation was fanning, but for many years he
was devoted to the ministry of the Baptist church, one of the old-time
preachers who performed his work without salary, ministering for the
good of the souls anil the welfare of his community.
An interesting sketch of l!ev. William A. Thompson, the pioneer
minister, is found in a woik previously published of the hislory of
Madison county, and foe its intrinsic value it is reproduced almost
verbatim in this sketch. "William A. Thompson whs born in the state
of Virginia, October 12, 1S0;5. He was married on September 2G, 1819,
to Mary 1']. Berger, by which union a family of thirteen children were
born, eight sons and five daughters, of whom eleven grew to be men and
women and eight were livinj,"' in 1874. He removed from the state of
Virginia to Henry county, Indiana, in the spring of ]8.'i2, and lived
thert^ until the spring of 18;59. He then moved to Madison county,
which continued to be his home until 1866. He then went to Sullivan
county, on the western bi)rder of Indiana, and spent his final years in
that vicinity. His early trade was that of shoemaking, but when he
came to Madison count\- he abandoned that vocation and chose fat-ndng
as his o<;cupation, a vocation more congenial to him and one in which
he prospered. In 1828 he joined the Methodist Episcopal church, and
continued a member until 1830. He then allied himself with the old-
school Baptist denomination. On the first Saturday in August. 1830,
he preached his first sermon, and continued to preach without inter-
mission until the end ol' his life. He seldom passed a Saturday or Sun-
day without delivering a religious discourse. He was always remark-
able for his good health and fine physical constitution, and, above all. for
his good temper. During his long life he was scarcely ever known to
be angry, especially with any mendier of his family. He stood five feet,
eight inches high, was heavy set and had a full, ruddy complesion,
blue eyes, black hair. He was a very fluent speaker, and his eloquence
was forceful and impressive, as well as fluent. In politics he was a
Democrat. His wife died on May 3. 1864. and he later married Mrs.
Sarah Richards, widow of John Richards, who had been a Baptist min-
ister in Grant county, Indiana. Rev. Thompson was elected a member
of the Indiana legislature in 1856, and in that capacity served one
term with great honor to himself and the people. He was one of the
committee who voted against the state paying the Wabash & Erie canal
bonds. In 1863 he was elected a county commissioner for Madison
county, and during his one term in that office was mainly instrumental
in having Madison county issue bonds to pa,v bounties to the soldiers
who had volunteered for the cause of the Union."
James A. Thompson, the father of William E., was reared in Madi-
son county from the age of five years, and has had a successful career
HISTORY OF MADISON COUiNTY 587
as a (■(inti-;M-tor aiul Imildrr. lie has contributed a brief and soraewliat
original sketeli ol' liiiuself, wliieh is bei-e reproduced; ''I came to
Madison county in the spring of ISHi), and have lived in the county
evei- since (written in 1913). Was married February 12, 1857, in this
count.\. I am a house carpenter and have worked at the trade for
fifty-three years. I joined the Masonic order November 22, 1860,
and have been an active worker ever since. The night has never been
too hot, too wet or cold for me to attend a Masonic Lodge, and in late
years when the family have prevailed or me to remain at home and
not expose myself to the cold and disagreeable weather, I have always
answered them thai 'No man ever suffered by attending the Masonic
Lodge.' I am a Thirty-second degree member at Indianapolis. I be-
long to no church but attend the service of all denominations. — James
A. Thompson." He married Miss Tabitha IMustard, a first cousin of
Daniel ^Instard, a banker of Anderson. She was born in Aladison
county, August 30, 1838, and her father, Enos Mustard, was formerly
from Ohio.
William E. Thompson, a son of James A. Thompson and wife, ac-
(|uired liis early education in the pul)lic schools at Anderson, and after
leaving the high school he went to Ottawa, Illinois, where he was em-
pIo,\-e(l as a clerk in the retail shoe -store of Phipps & Company. He
was subse(juently put in charge of a shoe store at Streator, Illinois, and
from there went to Chicago, where he spent a little more than a year
as a clerk in a shoe store. With that experience he returned to Ander-
son and followed the same line of work for four years. At the end of
that time he went to work at the carpenter trade under his father's
sup(>rvision, and worked with him in the contracting and building busi-
ness for two years, at the end of whicii time he took up contracting on
his own account. He was later again engaged with his father for three
years, and then joined P. H. MiHspaugh in the firm of Thompson &
Millspaugh, the partnership continuing for three years. During that
time the firm built some of the large residences, .school houses and
churches in Anderson. They erei-ted the cily library building here
and at Hartford City and Carthage, Indiana. After the dissolution
of the above firm William <E. Thompson continued alone until 1913, at
which time his son was taken into partnership, and the firm is now
known as William E. Thompson & Son. During the busy season Mr.
Thompson employs quite a force of men, and his services have been
utilized in much of the building construction not only in the city and
county but elsewhere in the state. His strict rules of business are well
known, and he is a contractor whose undertakings are carried out with
most scrupulous pains and with the utmost reliability, both as to work-
manship and as to time.
On the 18th of January, 1881, 'Sir. Thompson was married to Miss
Mary C. Laffan, of Chicago. She died in 1890, leaving the following
children : Rome H., Fred E. and Joe F, For his second wife Mr.
Thompson married Mrs. Ida Beall McDowell, of Marion, a member
of one of the old families of Crant county. Her father, George W. Beall.
is a well known citizen. ]Mr. Thompson is prominent in Masonry, hav-
ing taken all the degrees in the York Rite, and his affiliations are with
Mt. Moriah Lodge, No. 77, A. F. & A. M.; Anderson Chapter, No. 52,
R. A. M.; Anderson Commandery, No. 32, K. T. ; and Murat Temple.
N. M. S., at Indianapolis. He also has affiliations with the Benevolent
588 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and Protective Order of Elks in Lodge No. 209 at Anderson. The
Thompson home in Anderson is at 120 West Seventh street.
George T. Beebe. In the fall elections of 1912, wlien tlie voters of
Madison county elected George T. Beebe to the office of county treas-
urer, they voiced the expression of their confidence in his integrity,
his absolute reliability and his ability to handle the affairs of one of
Indiana's leading counties. It is generally found that the people of a
community are not slow in recognizing true worth in an individual,
and the man selected to handle the financial resources of a section is
invariably one who has made a success in his private affairs. In the
case of Air. Beebe there has been no exception to this rule, for his career
has been one of earnest effort, concluding in well merited success, a
success all the more commendable in that it has been entirely self
gained. Mr. Beebe was born at Draw Bridge, Sussex county, Delaware,
January 23, 1856. His father, John S. Beebe, was a native of Virginia
and an early settler of Delaware, where for many years he was a pros-
perous farmer. He married Miss Elizabeth Carey, a native of Dela-
ware, and both are now deceased. They became the parents of eight
children, all of whom lived to years of maturitj*.
George Thomas Beebe received his early education in the public
schools of his native state, and in 1877 came to Madison county, Indiana,
where for a time he was engaged in teaching school. Subsequently he
became a student in a private preparatory school at Elwood, and after
leaving there taught in the Elwood schools, but gave up his career as
a teacher to become a telegraph operator in the employ of the Lake
Erie & Western Railroad. He continued in that office and as agent for
the road for one year, and then became a bookkeeper for George Hart-
ing, of Elwood, continuing with that gentleman for a short period.
Coming then to Anderson, he was appointed deputy sheriff of Madison
county, an ofSce in which he continued to serve for two years. At that
time Mr. Beebe purchased his present abstract and title business from
E. E. Hendcoe and Albert Small, and has since maintained his office
in the Masonic Temple, where he has the most complete set of abstract
books since the first settlement of Madison county. For a time Mr.
Beebe served in the capacity of president of the Citizens Gas Company.
He has interested himself actively and intelligently in whatever has
affected his adopted city, and has steadily advanced to a place in public
confidence. A Democrat in politics, in 1912 he was the candidate of
his party for the office of county treasurer, to which he was elected,
and from liis past record there is no doubt that he will be able to satis-
factorily discharge the duties of his high position when he takes the
reins of office on January 1, 1914. With his family he is an attendant
of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he has been a member and
liberal supporter for the past thirty-five years. His popularity among
all classes is general, and among the members of the Knights of Pythias
in Anderson he has numerous warm friends.
In January, 1887, Mr. Beebe was married to Miss Florence Wright,
born near Frankton, and to this union there have been born two daugh-
ters, Helen E. and Rachel E. The elder daughter is a graduate of
the Anderson high school and completed her education in the State
University at Bloomington, Indiana. The younger daughter is attend-
ing the Anderson high school. The pleasant family residence, at No. 830
HISTORY OF iVIADISON COUNTY 589
West Eightli street, is located in one of the most exclusive residence sec-
tions of the city.
Elijah Posey ^IcMahan. Monroe township in Madison comity is
noted for its finely improved and productive homesteads, and one of
these is occupied by Elijah Posey McMahan, who has lived in this
county all his life, and has accjuired exceptional energy and good busi-
ness ability through his farming operations, and is one of the most pros-
perous country residents of the county. He owns in his home place
one hundred and sixty acres and has eighty acres in Boone township.
Mr. ilc^Iahan has served as county commissioner of Madison county,
and has for many years been an influential factor in his community.
Elijah Posey McMahan was horn September 7, 1855, in Boone town-
ship of Madison county, a son of Jesse and Lilly (Williamson) Mc-
Mahan. The paternal grandparents came from North Carolina in the
early days, and in their familj- was Jesse ilcMahan, then a small boy.
The latter was reared and spent all his active life in IMadison county,
and is well remembered among the old residents of this vicinit.v. He
and his wife were the parents of seven children, namely: Elijah P.;
Enoch W. : ^Irs. Louisa Jloore; James; Mrs. Martha Bear, who died
leaving ten children; Carolina, deceased; and Saml who died in infancy.
Mr. Elijah P. IMcMahan was born on the McMahan farm. He grew
up there, in the environments of Madison county, during the decade
of the war, and as a boy was educated first in the Binint schools, and
later at the Union school. "When twenty-one years of age he began his
independent career as a renter, and subsequently bought his present
farm. He has been successful from the start and has never lacked in
means to provide for himself and family. Mr. McMahan married Sarah
A. ^Montgomery daughter of Samuel and ^lary (Thureton) Montgom-
ery. Their nine children are mentioned as follows : Orville, who mar-
ried Sarah Kirkpatrick ,and has two children, Wayne and Mildred;
Myrtle, who married Hayes Webster, and their children are Cecil,
Irene, Robert, ^label and Jane; Lula, is the wife of J. C. Frazier, and
their children are Lester. Jesse, Ruby, Victor, Opal, Fred and Grace;
Ennna. married James Crouse, and is the mother of Leo, William,
Donald and Howard: Wimiie, is the wife of Ran AUman ; John, mar-
ried Miss Olive Gwinn and has a daughter Isahelle; Grover is manager
of the home farm ; and the two youngest children were Marjorie, and
Jessie, but the last named is now deceased.
As a farmer Mr. Mc^Iahan raises a large ((uantity of stock and also
maintains a dairy, selling a great deal of milk to the dealers. For three
terms he was elected county commissioner and during that time was
instrumental in forwarding many improvements for the county. Mr.
l\[cMahan is a member of the Methodist church and his wife worships
with the Baptist denomination.
Wn^LiAM L. S.wvGE. The manager of a well-improved farm of
120 acres, lying in ]\Ionroe township, William Savage is an able and
worthy representative of the agricultural interests of Madison county,
where he has spent his entire career. A member of the younger genera-
tion of farmers, he has the hard-headed practicality inherited from a
long line of agricultural ancestors, with which he combines the enthusi-
asm of youth and the use of modem scientific methods and machinery.
Mr. Savage was born on the old family homestead in Pipe Creek town-
590 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ship, Madison county, Indiana, August 13, 18!»0, and is a son of Co-
lumbus and Maggie (LV'ck) Savage.
The Savage family is known as one of the old and honored ones of
Madison counts, having been founded here by the grea1-i;randpar-
ents of William Savage, who came to Imliana from Vermuni, llie Green
Mountain Slate, and here took up land from the government. Scipia
Savage, the grandfather of William Savage, was born in the Green
Mountain State, and was a child when brought to the newly opened
section of Indiana. Here he married Nancy Beason, and settled down
to agi-ieultural pursuits, in which he was engaged during the rmiainder
of his life. Columbus Savage was born in Pipe Creek township, .Madi-
son county, and followed in the foot-steps of his father and graiuirather,
adopting the tilling of the soil as a vocation. He has continued to fol-
low this occupation throughout his career, and is now a well-known
and substantial farmer of Boone township, where he owns a large tract
of land. Columbus Savage was twice married, first to Miss Maggie
Peck, and they were the parents of two children. The daughter, Nora^
the elder, is deceased, and William L. is the subject of this review. The
second marriage was with Miss Josina Benedict, and there were four
children born of this union : Herman, Mary, Bernice, Vernice, but the
youngest is deceased. |
The early education of W^illiam Savage was secured in the public '
schools of Elwood, following which he became a pupil in the Duck
Creek township schools, but subsecjuently returned to Elwood, where i
he completed his training. During this time he had been engaged in i
assisting his father in the work of the home place, and received a thor- i
ough training in all matters of an agricultural nature. At the time of I
his marriage, he embarked upon a career of his own, locating on a prop- (
erty on Alexandria Rural Free Delivery Route No. 1, in IMonroe town- I
ship, and here he has continued to carry on general farming and stock !
raising operations with uniform success. He has kept fully abreast of
the various changes and advancements made in his vocation, and has j
never been backward in adopting measures which have shown themselves :
to be of a beneficial nature. His intelligent management of his aflfairs |
has gained him prosperity, and a position of leadership among the \
younger farmers of his community. ' i
On February 15. 1913, Mr. Savage was united in marriage with ;
Miss Blanche Merrill, daughter of High and Mary Merrill. High Mer-
rill was a machinist of Dayton, Ohio, who subsequently moved to Troy, |
Ohio, and thence to Hartford City, Indiana, where the last years of j
his life were passed. He was the father of three children: Blanche,
Bessie and one who is now deceased. I
Mr. Savage is a Republican in his political belief, but his connection ;
with matters of a public nature has been somewhat limited, as he has i
been too busy with his agricultural operations to actively enter the I
political arena. However, good men and measures receive his hearty i
support, and he shows an active and intelligent interest in all that I
affects the welfare of his community. Fraternally, he is connected with '
the local lodge of the Improved Order of Red Men, in which he has
many friends. With his wife, he attends the Christian church. >
Weldon B. Gorden. Since 1894, Weldon B. Gorden has been a resi-
dent of section 3, Monroe township, where he is the owner of an excel-
lent property of two hundred acres, lying on the Gorden Grove road, ;
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 591
about live miles iioilli of Alcxntictria. During this time he liiis lieen
coiiuec-ted with various enterprises of an asirieultural nature, ami lias
fairly earned the leading jjosition whieh he oeeupies among the I'artn-
ers of his locality. ^Ir. (iorden was born half a mile east of his pres-
ent farm, October 18, iSM. and is a son of Jjunes and Susan (LaRue)
Gorden.
Anderson Gorden, the paternal grandfatlu'r of Weldon 1!. Clurden,
was born in Xortli Carolina, from whence he removed to Wa.\iie county,
thence came to Putnam county and sabsei|uently came to Madison county,
where be became the first settler in section 10, iMouroe township. Set-
tling in the woods, he took up land from the government, cleared and
developed a farm, and eventually became one of the substantial men
of his conununity. James (iorden was also born in Wayne counly and
accompanied his parents to Madison count}', here assisting his lather
in clearing his land, and, like him, becoming well known as a larnier
and public-spirited citizen. He and his wife were the parents of nine
children: Mary A., who is now Mrs. Leslie; Lydia E., who is deceased;
Norman; Louis ; Harriet, who is now Mrs. Osborn; Albert and t!olum-
bus, who are deceased; AVeldon; and Catherine, who is now iM rs. Morris.
Weldon B. Gorden attended the public schools of Monroe township
and Danville, and during the greater part of his boyhood and youth
assisted his father in cultivating the homestead place. As a young
man he went to Jefferson county, Nebraska, where he pursued a course
of study in a German school for some time, and there endjarked in l)usi-
ness as tlie proprietor of a general store. In 1885 j\lr. Gorden was en-
gaged in a partnership in the conducting and editing of The Casry
Banner, a weekh' edition, of Casey, Illinois, and sold out in 1886 and
went to Jetmore, Kansas, where he was engaged in the drug business,
but in 1887, moved the stock of goods to Rocky Ford, Colorado. In
1894 he returned to Monroe township and resumed operations on the old
home place, on which he has resided to the present time, his property
being one of the best to be found in this section. The gi'cater part of
his attention has lieen devoted to general farming, but he has also met
with success in stock raising ventures, and through honorable dealing
has gained the reputation of being a man of the highest piinci[ilcs and
strictest integrity. His connection with large enterprises has placed
him upon a substantial footing in the commercial world, he having the
''stinction of being (as far as is known) the only man in Indiana who
has ever purchased an entire town. During the survey of the Cleve-
land & St. Louis Railroad, there sprang into being tVie town of Osceola,
which grew rapidly as prosperity was promised by the advent nP the
railroad, until five hundred people were living at that point. Substan-
tial buildings and residences were erected, and a postoffice located, this
later being known by several other names, one of which was Mercury.
The town was not considered of enough importance by the railroad,
however, land values decreased, and the population diminished as rap-
idly as it had grown. Mr. Gorden, realizing his oppnrtutiity lor an
advantageous transaction, succeeded in buying the entire town. He
converted the land into valuable fai'ming property, while the lumber
of the structures here has been sold in small lots from 'time to time, and
he is still the owner of a number of houses, whii-li he is disposing of to
neiirhboring farmers to be used as outbuildings.
On ;\rarfh 1. 1894, ^Ir. Cordci was mai-ried to ]\Iiss Lena Pickering,
daugl-.ler nf ('()rl)lc\- and .Vi'iia M)\er) Pii-kei'ing, and to tliis union
592 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
there have been born two sons: Irl W. and Kenneth P. Politically
Mr. Gorden is a Republican and has always supported the policies of the
party. Fraternally he is a member of the Linton Lodge of the K. of
P., No. 146, located at Steele City, Nebraska.
Paul Armstrong, M. D. Among the members of the medical pro-
fession in Madison county who have won merited distinction in their
calling. Dr. Paul Armstrong, of Oilman, holds a prominent position.
During his career he has been engaged in varied occupations in differ-
ent parts of this and other countries, being known in Chicago, in Cali-
fornia and in the gold fields of Alaska, and since his advent in Oilman
has identified himself actively with the various interests of this pros-
perous and growing community. Dr. Armstrong was born in 1876,
in Butler county, Ohio, and is a son of Dr. Alfonzo and Sarah (Ander-
son) Armstrong.
Dr. Alonzo Armstrong was born in Indiana, and for forty years
was engaged in the practice of medicine, until failing health caused
his removal to California. Subsequently he came to Kewanna, Pulton
county, Indiana, and here the remainder of his active career was passed.
He and his wife were the parents of two children : Max, a graduate
of the graded and high schools, who also took a course in the University
of Chicago, and is now a practicing chemist of Gary, Indiana ; and
Paul. Dr. Armstrong first attended the public schools of his native
state, following which he was engaged as an office bo3' with a large New
York concern for three years, and at the end of that period accompanied
his parents to California, where he completed his common school edu-
cation. Returning to the middle West, he located in Chicago, where
for three years he was engaged in the bicycle business, and then again
went to California. During the gold rush that accompanied the dis-
covery of that metal in Alaska, he became one of the courageous ad-
venturers who fought their way over obstacles in search of fortune, and
after one year returned to this country, having succeeded in accumulat-
ing the means with which to pursue his medical studies. He had no
doubt inherited his inclination for this profession from his father, and
from boyhood it had been his ambition to become a physician, but cir-
cumstances had lieen such that he was unable to realize his desire.
After one year spent in the Louisville (Kentucky) Medical College,
he became a student at Barnes Medical College, St. Louis, Missouri, and
was graduated with his degree from that institution with the class of
1904. Following this, for a short period he was engaged in practice
with his father at Kewanna, Indiana, and then came to Oilman, which
place has since been the scene of his professional labors. He has been
successful in building up a large and lucrative, practice, his inherent
skill, close application and sympathetic nature having drawn to him a
representative professional business from all over this section. A care-
ful student, he has kept abreast of the advancements of his honored
calling by subscription to the leading medical journals of the day, by
membership in the various organizations of his vocation, and by exten-
sive personal research.
In 1903 occurred the marriage of Dr. Paul Armstrong and Miss
Nettie Comer, the latter a native of Jasper county, Indiana. One child
has been born to this union : John R., a bright and interesting lad now
in his school period. Doctor and Mrs. Armstrong are consistent mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. Politically he is a progressi%'e.
]MR. AND MRS. AVILLTA^M FOUNTAIN
HISTORY OF JVLA.DISON COUNTY 593
but his conuection with matters of a public nature has been confined
to supporting those men and measures that he has believed have stood
for the best interests of his community.
William Fountain. In a history of the prominent and influential
citizens of Madison county, William Fountain is eminently deserving of
extended mention, for his well spent life, his agricultural ability, his
loyalty to public duty and his fidelity in private life have all gained him
a place among the leading residents of the community. Although he has
passed the seventy-fifth milestone in life's journey, an age when most
men would consider it their privilege to retire from activities, he still
continues to discharge the daily routine of duties and to show a com-
mendable interest in all that affects his township or its people. Mr.
Fountain was born March 3, 1838, near old Moss Island, just west of
Anderson, Indiana, and is a son of George E. and Mary (Dodds) Foun-
tain. His parents, natives of Queen Anne county, Maryland, came to
Madison county and entered land in 1835, and here spent the remainder
of their lives in making a home. They were the parents of eight chil-
dren : Hester, Elizabeth and Edward, who are deceased ; William ; James ;
Washington and Matthew, who are deceased ; and John, who was a Union
Soldier in an Indiana volunteer infantry regiment and lost his life at
Vicksburg during the Civil war.
William Fountain acquired his educational training in the schools of
Anderson, dividing his boyhood between the school room and the home
farm. He continued to assist his father until he attained his majority,
at wliich time he embarked upon a career of his own, and in 1875 bought
140 acres of laud in Anderson township, to which he has since added,
now being the owner of 164 acres. He has made this one of the most
valuable farms in the township, has erected substantial buildings, and is
justly considered one of the representative men of his community.
On October 3, 1862, Mr. Fountain was married to Miss Susan Thomp-
son, daughter of Lorenzo Thompson, and she died December 19, 1886,
and was laid to rest at the Mooresville Cemetery. Five children were
born to this union, as follows : Alonzo, educated in the old Pence school-
house, and formerly engaged in farming, but for the past twenty years
engaged in bridge contracting, lives in Petersburg, 111.; Florence, who
married Ira Ball, a Nebraska farmer, and has three children — Ora,
Lottie and Fairy ; Sylvia, deceased, who was the wife of Mellin Harri-
son, and had one cMld; Lutha, who married Fred Noble and has one
child, Nancy V. ; Omie, who became the wife of Dolph Fuller, and has
three children — Laura, Helena and Gordon ; Walter, who was educated
in Anderson township, and here married March 20, 1901, Nancy Odessie
Noble, daughter of Andrew J. and Adeline (Nelise) Noble, and has
three children — Leslie, Ethel and EfiSe.
With his family, Mr. Fountain attends the Christian church, in the
work of which he has ever taken a prominent part. A life-long Demo-
crat, he has served as supervisor of his to\vnship, and continues to niani-
fest an interest in the success of his party. His life has been a long and
useful one, and no citizen of his township stands higher in public esteem
and confidence.
RuFUS Albert Hoover, M. D. A rising young physician of Madi-
son county, Rufus Albert Hoover, M. D.,'is busily engaged in the prac-
tice of his profession in Orestes, where he is also serving most accept-
594 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
ably as principal of the public school. He was born in North Carolina,
but was brought up in Indiana, coming with his parents, to this state
when he was a small child.
The Doctor's father, Thomas Hoover, was born, reared and mar-
ried in North Carolina. Coming with his family to Indiana, he set-
tled in Hamilton county, where he spent his closing years of life, pass
ing away in June, 1904. His wife, whose maiden name was Catherine
Briles, died several years before he did, her death occurring in 1874.
They were the parents of six children, namely: Mrs. Nancy Bolander;
Mrs. Rachael Hoover; Andrew S. ; Mrs. Margaret Halderman, who died
December 15, 1901 ; Joseph L. ; and Rufus A., with whom this brief
sketch is chiefly concerned.
After his graduation from the high school in Sheridan. Hamilton
county, Rufus A. Hoover taught school for awhile, and later continued
his studies at the Indiana University, in Bloomington. Having then
decided to enter the medical profession, he went to Chicago, where he
took up the study of medicine and surgery at the Loyola University,
also known as Bennett's Medical College, and was there graduated with
the class of 1911. Dr. Hoover subsequently spent a year in a Chicago
hospital, where he gained practical knowledge and experience in his
profession. In 1912 he located in Orestes, where he has since been
actively engaged in his chosen work, and has likewise had charge of
the Orestes School. He has been successful from the start, and deserves
great credit for the position he has woji as a teacher, a physician, a
man, and a citizen.
Dr. Hoover married July 14, 1911, Josephine Rambo, a native of
Lapel, Indiana, and they have one child, Frances. Politically the Doe-
tor is a Democrat; fraternally he belongs to the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows, at Sheridan, Indiana; and religiously he is a member
of the Methodist Episcopal church.
Robert W. Thurston. One of Madison county's youngest stock-
men, Robert W. Thurston has grown up in this county, and from his
boyhood days was familiar with the town and the stock industry. He
believes in farming as one of the greatest industries to which man can
apply his energies, and his success is almost a matter of course, since
he was trained to the business in the same way that other young men
are trained to enter professions or commercial lines. Mr. Thurston has
the management of his father's large farm of three hundred and sixty
seven acres in Monroe township.
Robert Thurston was born July 27, 1892, near Summitville, in Van
Buren township, a son of Joseph Elmer and Anna (Whitely) Thurston.
Mr. J. E. Thurston, the father, is one of the best known citizens of
Madison countj', has lived here practically all his life, and has been a
farmer, a road contractor and stock buyer. He and his wife are the
parents of three children, namely: Robert, Marie and Walter.
Robert Thurston was born and reared in Madison county, attended
the Summitville schools, and took a preparatory course in Alexandria,
and tlien finished in the Fairmount Academy. On July 30, 1912, he
married Miss Eva Davis. They have one child. Lois. Mr. Thurston is a
member of the Christian church and his wife belongs to the Quaker
denomination. Her parents were Joseph and Ellen (Dougherty) Davis.
1^.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY -595
William H. Gossett. One of \he best known dealers in live stock
in Madison county is "William H. Gossett, who has his home in Boone
township, where he is the owner of a tine farm of one hundred and forty-
acres. He has spent practically all his career in Madison county, has
been known as a hard worker and good business man, and while accu-
mulating a goodly share of material prosperity has likewise enjoyed and
increased the esteem of the community for his excellent qualities of
character and personalities.
William H. Gossett was born in 1853 in Highland county, Ohio, a
son of William E. and Hannah 'Gossett. His father was also born in
Highland county, was educated in the common schools, was a mechanic
and carpenter, and in 1854 established his home in Madison county,
Indiana. In this county, he worked at his trade of carpenter for a
number of years, and lived both in Anderson and Alexandria. In later
years he moved out to .Missouri, and died at Odessa, in that state. His
wife was born in West Virginia, and her death occurred in Odessa,
Missouri. Their ten children are mentioned as follows : William H. ;
Eliza; David; Liddie; Emma; Alice; Charles; Marion; Oscar; Dora.
William H. Gossett was about one year of age when the family came
to Madison county, and he was therefore reared and trained for his
life work in this county. As a boy he attended the Smith Chapel School
in Boone township, and finished his education in Alexandria, in the
meantime having gone to school for one term in the Anderson city
schools. When a boy he took up under his father's direction work as.
painter and carpenter, and up to the time he was eighteefi years old
was working as a contracting painter. He soon afterwards gave up his
trade and Ijcgan raising stock of all kinds, a vocation which he has
made the basis of his active career. He has exceptional ability in this
line, and is regarded as one of the best judges of live stock in Madison
county. He conducts his line farm in Boone township for the purpose
of raising feed and providing <|uarters for his stock.
Li 1877 Mr. Gossett married Emma Jones, a daughter of Elliott
M. Jones. Their three children are : Walter, who married Gay Fox ;
Harry, who married Delia Purdue, and their three children are Arthur,
Donald and Fred; Blanch, who married Herman Markle, and has one
child — Lola. Mr. Gossett is affiliated with the Improved Order of Red
Men and the familj- worship in the Methodist church.
George W. Judd. Left an orphan at the age of fourteen years, the
boyhood and youth of George W. Judd, now a substantial farmer of
Monroe township and the owner of 160 acres of land on the Elwood
and Alexandria road, about three miles west of Alexandria, were any-
thing but periods of inactivity. From the beginning of his career he
has known the necessity of hard, industrious toil, and although he is
now in comfortable circumstances because of this persevering toil, he
continues to be one of the active and energetic men of his locality,
alert not only in his personal affairs but in those of his community as
well. George W. Judd was born on a farm in Adams township, Madi-
son county, Indiana, ]\Iarch 18, 1852, and is a son of James and Mar-
garet (Young) Judd. His father was a native of North Carolina and
came to Madison county as a young man, locating first in Adams town-
ship, where he ov\Tied a property. Here he continued to till the soil
during the remainder of his career, and passed away when still in the
prime of life. Re married Margaret Young and they became the par-
596 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
ents of two children: Emma, who became the wife of William G.
Fesler, of Monroe township and she is now deceased; and George W.
The Young family originated in Scotland, and was founded iu Madison
county by the father of Mrs. Judd, who located first iu Ohio, later re-
moved to Fayette county, Indiana, and came from there to Madison
county, locating on a Monroe township property, where he died. ilr.
Young married Jane McLucas, and they became the parents of ten
children, as follows : Malinda, Nancy, Marj-, one who is deceased, Rob-
ert, John, George, William, Leroy and Margaret.
George W. Judd was three years of age when brought to Monroe
township, and here received his education in the Orestes and Davis
schools. He was fourteen years of age when his mother died, and at
that time he went to live at the home of an uucle, on whose farm he
worked until becoming of age. He then engaged in farming with an
uncle renting a small property until he had saved the means to pur-
chase a forty-acre tract of land in Boone township, but two years later
disposed of his interests there and returned to ilonroe township, where
he located on his present farm, formerly a part of the Nathan Lowry
property. Here from time to time he has made valuable and substan-
tial improvements to his land, machinery and buildings, and his resi-
dence is a fine and modern one, having been erected but a few years
ago. The exceUent condition of his land testifies eloquently to his abil-
ity as an agriculturist, and he has met success also iu his stock raising
ventures, his cattle commanding good prices. As a business man he
is known to be possessed of the strictest integrity, and his connection
with various large transactions has given him a firmly-established reputa-
tion in the confidence of his fellow-citizens.
On February 8, 1880, Mr. Judd was married (first) to Miss Ella
Black, who died February 10, 1882, and was buried in the Lily Creek
cemetery. On July 9. 1892, occurred Mr. Judd's second marriage,
when he was united with j\Iiss Etta M. Moyer. To this union there have
been born two children : Everett and JIary, both graduates of the
Orestes High school and now living at home. Mr. and Mrs. Judd are
faithful members of the Disciples of Christ, and have been liberal in
their support of movements inaugurated by the Christian church. Mr.
Judd holds membership in the Madison Coujity Horse Thief Association.
Homer E. Howard. A substantial and prosperous citizen of ^ladi-
son county, Homer E. Howard, now engaged in farming in Van Buren
township, was for many years identified with the mercantile interests
of this part of the county, having been one of the leading druggists of
SummitviUe. He was born September 16, 1872, in Ross county, Ohio,
which was likewise the birthplace of his father, Robert C. Howard.
At the age of twenty-five years Robert C. Howard migrated from
his Ohio home to Indiana, locating first in Delaware county, where for
five years he was engaged in business as a general merchant. Coming
to Madison county in 1879, he changed his occupation, and for several
years was a large and successful stock buyer and lumber dealer. He
now owns one half of the farm on which his son, Homer, is living, but
has nothing to do with its management. He married while a resident
of Ohio Ernestine Thomas and into the household thus established two
children were born, namely: Homer E., the subject of this sketch; and
Edward R., who married Nora Duff, and has two children. Duff and
Vaughn. Mr. Howard's mother, Mrs. Ernestine (Thomas) Howard,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 597
died July 2, 1876, and the father wedded Miss Dora E. Paden and to
that marriage were born five children of whom three are living at pres-
ent: Emmett L., a resident of Brownsville, Texas; Ralph P., residing
in'the same city; and Charles W., a resident of Los Angeles, California.
Mrs. Howard, the mother of these children, died January 10, 1914, and we
herewith quote from a local publication concerning her life and noble
deeds :
"A brief bit of history concerning the life of Sister Howard, quite
inadequate, to be sure. Time and space will not perrait but a few brief
words but eternity will reveal it all, and in a more perfect way.
"The one thing we know — she has been a great sufferer, but bore it
all patiently, and gave evidence, time after time, that her trust and confi-
dence was in God.
"Dora E. Howard, daughter of Elijah and Catherine Paden, was
born near Hillsborough, Illinois, Montgomery county, on the 8th day
of February, 1851, and went home on the 10th day of January at 4:30
in the afternoon, 1914. She was married to Robert C. Howard at the
age of 27, and came to Indiana, and has made this home since that time.
To Brother and Sister Howard God gave five children, two went home
before their mother. Three sons and two step-sons are left to think of
and grieve for mother. She leaves one brother, who lives at Hillsborough,
Illinois, and a sister, Mrs. Alfred Swindell, who lives at Eureka Springs,
Arkansas, but is now here with her husband.
"Sister Howard was converted when a child and united with the
Presbyterian church. After coming to Indiana she united with the Meth-
odist Episcopal church, and was a charter member of the Walnut Street
M. E. church, of Summitville. She was a faithful member and worker
in the church for many years, and until her health was so impaired that
she could not. Her heart was in the work — she loved* the church. To sum
it all up : She has lived a life, her battles are fought, her victories are
won, a character finished, a judgment awarded, a conflict ended. She is
gone. She has left a tender, kind-hearted, loving, sympathetic husband,
one who did all a husband could do for a sick wife, and whose tender
hands were administering to her when she slipped away. Her memory
will stay close, and her spirit will administer until we join her in the
paradise of God."
Acquiring his elementary education in the Zion School, of Delaware
county, Indiana, Homer E. Howard completed his studies at Summit-
ville, Indiana. In 1895, in partnership with his brother, Edward R.,
Mr. Howard established himself in the drug business in Summitville,
and continued it successfully for a period of sixteen years. While
there he took an active interest in everything pertaining to the public
welfare, and had the distinction of putting in the Summitville Electric
Light and Water Works, and of installing the first telephone line in
that place. About five years ago Mr. Howard assumed possession of
the 185-acre farm owned by his father and himself, and has since car-
ried on general farming in a most satisfactory manner.
On April 26, 1905, ]\Ir. Howard was united in marriage with Mary
PauUn, daughter of Jesse J. and Frederica (Bninni) Paulin. Their
union has been blessed by the birth of three children, namely: Paul
E., Frederick B. and Robert, deceased. Politically Mr. Howard
is a Democrat; fraternally he belonged to the Knights of Pythias, Gas
Belt No. 361. His wife is s member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
598 HISTOEY OP MADISON COUNTY
John C. Yule. A resident of Alexandria since 189!), when he
came to this city to enter the employ of the Alexandria Paper Com-
pany, John C. Yule has been closely identified with the business inter-
ests of this flourishing commercial center during the past tifteen years
and has fairly won the right to be named among those wlio have aided
in this locality's advancement. As sales manager for these mills, Mr.
Yule has greatly extended the scope of the company's business and as
a citizen his adopted community has found in him one wlio lias had
its best interests at heart, lie was born at Holland Landing, I'rovince
of, Ontario, Canada, on May 4, 1872, and is a son of Andrew and Mary
("Watson) Yule. His father, who still resides in Canada, is an employe
of the English government and a well-known official of his community.
Five children were borne to Andrew and ^lary (Watson) Yule, namely:-
Watson, John C Edwin Watson. E. B. and Walter S.
The early education of Mr. Yule was secured in the pulilic and
high schools of Aurora, and subseiiuently this was supplemented by a
course in a commercial college in the citj' of Toronto. Following his
graduation therefrom, he adopted the profession of educator, and for
several years was engaged in teaching school in Canada, but in Jan-
uary, 1893, migrated to the United States, and for three years was
engaged in railroading in Wisconsin. He next identified himself with
the National Bank of Neenah, Wisconsin, but after four years went to
Dallas. Texas, and was there connected with a publishing house until
1899, when he came to Alexandria, Indiana, to enter the employ of
the Alexandria Paper Company, of which his brother, Edwin Watson
Yule, is secretary and treasurer. He at once joined the selling force
of this venture and his success in popularizing the company's products
gained him steady advancement until now he is capably filling the
responsible position of sales manager, being at the head ol^ an able,
well-trained corps of salesmen, who under his direction have made
this one of the leading concerns of its kind in the State. He is pos-
sessed of marked executive ability and to this has been added a pro-
gressive spirit and modern methods of attracting business that have
caused him to be recognized as one o£ the leading men of his calling
in. the Middle West.
Mr. Yule was married (first) December 15, 1897, to Miss Dora
Rynerson, who died February 2, 1899, leaving one child, Byron. His
second marriage occurred May 14, 1903, when he was united with ;\Iiss
Grace J. Grouse, of Alexandria, daughter of Jacob S. Crouse. Three
children have been born to this union : George E., Mary E. and
John C, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Y'ule are consistent members of the Chris-
tian chiirch, and have been liberal in their support of religious and char-
itable movements. He enjoys the privileges of membership in the
local lodge of the Masonic fraternity.
Edwin Watson Yule. One of the important factors in the busi-
ness life of Alexandria, and an enterprise which has added materially
to the prestige of this city as a manufacturing center, is that of the
Alexandria Paper Company, which was founded here in July. 1900.
Much of the success of this enterprise may be accredited to the efforts
of its capable and popular secretary and treasurer, Edwin Watson
Yule, whose location here occurred simultaneously with that of the
business and who has become widely known in manufacturing circles.
Mr. Yule is a Canadian, having been born in the Province of Ontario,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 599
in 1874, and is a son of Andrew and Mary (Watson) Yule, the former
still a resident of the Dominion and a)i employe of the British govern-
ment. There were five eliildren in the family : Watson, John C, Edwin
Watson, E. B. and Walter S.
Edwin Watson Yule received his preliminary educational training in
the public; schools of Ontario, following which he took a course in a
commercial college in the city of Toronto. Being well trained in stenog-
raphy, he secured a position with a manufacturing concern at Aurora,
Ontario, in the employ of which he remained four years, and succeeding
this he spent one year with a like business at Mount Forrest, Ontario.
]\Ir. Yule came to the United States to enter the services of a paper
manufacturing concern of Menasha, Wisconsin, in connection with which,
two years later, he came to Alexandria, and assisted in the establishment
of the Alexandria Paper Company. He has continued to be identified
with this business to the present time and through marked ability has
risen to his present position, that of secretary and treasurer of this im-
portant enterprise. In the management of the affairs of this business,
Mr. Yule has displayed the possession of those qualities which make for
success in any of the walks of life — shrewdness, versatility, perseverance
and close application, and among his associates he is recognized as one
to whom they may look for advice and leadership. He is essentially a
business man and has never cared for the activities of the public arena,
but has found diversion in ft'aternal circles as a valued member of the
local lodge of Elks.
On July 17, 1902, Sir. Yule was married to Miss Georgina Lemon,
who was also born in Canada, a daughter of George and Sophia (Meek)
Lemon. They have no children. Mr. Yule is a member of the Chris-
tian church and Mrs. Y'ule of the Episcopal church, and they have numer-
ous friends in their congregations. The family home is located at
Alexandria.
Joseph Draper. In the eighty-fifth year of his life, Joseph Draper,
whose home is in what is known as Scotts addition, and who is the owner
of a section of land in Monroe township, is one of the venerable old
men of Madison county, has been a farmer, has grown many thousands
of bushels of corn ancl wheat and other grain crops during his career,
and his record is one of which his family and fellow citizens may well
be proud. Joseph Draper was born December 17, 1828, in South Hamp-
ton, Virginia, the old Dominion state, a son of Thomas and Mary
(Turner) Draper. Thomas Draper was also born in that section of
Virginia, but his father, Ephraim Draper, came from England in colo-
nial days, and located in Virginia. Thomas Draper, "after all his chil-
dren had been born in Virginia, moved out to Ohio, settling near Can-
ton, and later moved to Rush county, Indiana, which was his home until
his death. His ten children are mentioned as follows: Loren E.,
Ephraim W., John E., Thomas J., deceased ; Joseph ; Martha, Edna, Mary
and Marcella, deceased ; and Margaret, who lives in Hancock county,
Indiana.
Joseph Draper when a boy came to Indiana, and had his education
in the common schools during the days before the modern free school
system was adopted in Indiana. He worked on the farm and remained
with his father up to the age of thirty-one. He then farmed his father's
place for a while, was a renter and worked at wages, beginning at the
600 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
lowest rung of the ladder of life, and finally got the start which enabled
him in later years to acquire a generous prosperity.
In 1855 he married Nancy Ewing, now deceased and buried in
Kuightstown, Indiana. He came from Kentucky and lived in Rush
county up to the time of his marriage. In 1858 Mr. Draper married
Elizabeth Stephens, who was born in Rush county and is buried in the
Baptist cemetery of that vicinity. She was the mother of one child,
Isaac S. Draper, who died at the age of fourteen. On June 15, 1862,
Joseph Draper married for his third wife Annie Siler, daughter of
Jacob and Elizabeth (Reddick) Siler, and her parents were among the
early settlers of Indiana. The four children of Joseph Draper and his
third wife, are as follows: Mary E., who married Grant Stephenson,
and has four children whose names are Efifie, the wife of Roy Ladd ;
Lela, wife of Walter Jackson ; Edith ; and Mattie. Mrs. Effie Ladd has
a child, Anna Kathlene, who is a great-grandchild of Joseph Draper.
Martha, the second of the children, married William Blake, and is the
mother of six children, Estel, Earl, Ernest, Anna, Minnie and "Little
Joe." Peter T. married Elizabeth Thurston, and their two children
are Arthur and Joe. John Wesley married Minnie Fuller, and they
have one child, Zoe. Mr. Draper and family worship in the Christian
church. "Uncle Joe" and his dear old wife live in a comfortable resi-
dence in East Alexandria, enjoying the association of legions of friends.
They are a peaceful and happy couple and are honored by all who
know them.
Andrew Berg. One of the prosperous farmers of Monroe township,
a man who has been the architect of his own fortunes, and from a begin-
ning without capital has become the possessor of a good home, Mr. Berg
has spent most of the years of his active life in Madison county, and is
one of the highly respected citizens of his home township.
Andrew Berg was born November 1, 1860, in Hamilton county, In-
diana, a son of David and Elizabeth (Kauffman) Berg. The father
c^me from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, locating in Wayne county,
Indiana, where he spent his life as a farmer. The brothers and sis-
ters of Mr. Berg are as follows : Christian ; Mary, deceased ; John ;
Levi ; Samuel ; David ; Benjamin, deceased ; and Elizabeth, also deceased.
Mr. Andrew Berg attended school in Hamilton county, and while
going to school worked on the home farm, and was well equipped for
his life work by the time he had completed his education and attained
his majority. At the age of twenty-one he began as a renter and con-
tinued in that way until he bought the forty-acre farm on which he
now lives in Monroe township of Madison county. He raises good crops,
and is especially interested in hogs, and he has some of the best exam-
ples of the Duroc swine in Madison county. Mr. Berg is also a carpenter
by trade and has built several houses and barns in Madison county, and
has erected his own buildings.
June 26, 1882, he married Miss Maggie Stephenson, a daughter of
William R. and Lucinda Stephenson. They are the parents of four
children, namely : Eva, deceased ; Grace, who married Bert Bertram,
and has one daughter, Geneva; Alvie, who married Jessie Hammond;
and Raymond, at home. All the children have been through school,
and Mr. and Mrs. Berg have taken pains to educate them and fit them
as well as possible for their individual careers. The family worship
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 601
in the Methodist church. The pretty homestead of Mr. and Mrs. Berg ii
known as "Cottage Lawn Farm."
William F. Wilson. One of the largest land owners in Monroe
township, William F. Wilson, has accumulated his vast holdings by
steady industry and hard, unremitting labor, and his career furnishes
an excellent example of the self-made manhood which has proved such
an important factor in the development of this prosperous section of
the Hoosier State. His farm afpresent consists of 426 acres, lying on
the Muncie and Alexandria pike, about two and one-half miles east of
Alexandria, and this he devotes mainly to the raising of stock, with the
dairy business as. a side line. Mr. Wilson was born on his father's farm
in Monroe township, Madison county, Indiana, July 5, 1868, and is a
son of James L. and Margaret (Busby) Wilson.
After attending the public schools of Monroe township, Mr. Wilson
took a course in an Iowa college, in which his brother, a well-known
educator, was at that time one of the tutors. As a lad he began his
agricultural training, and during his entire school period spent his
vacations and other spare time in working on the homestead, and when
he had reached his majority became his father's partner in farming
ventures, continuing with the elder man for fourteen years. In com-
pany with him he purchased forty acres in the vicinity in which he now
lives, and Mr. Wilson subsequently bought his father's interest in this
property, and following that was engaged in various land transactions,
constantly adding to his property. As his finances permitted, he erected
buildings of a substantial character and bought new machinery, and his
stock raising operations assumed large proportions. Untiring industry
and close application to every detail of his vocation have been the
pric_e paid by ^Ir. Wilson for his success, and in the meantime he has
firmly established himself in the confidence of the community as a man
of strict integrity and honorable dealing.
On March 16, 1893, Mr, W^ilson was united in marriage with Miss
Vienna Carver, daughter of William Carver, whose family came to
Madison county from Fayette county, Indiana. Six children have been
born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilson : An infant, deceased ; Everett, Orval,
Morris, Angeline and Cassie. The children have all been given good
educational advantages and have wide social connections in Alexandria.
With his wife and family, Mr. Wilson attends the Christian church,
and has been liberal in his support of its movements. Essentially a
farmer, with wide and varied interests, he has never found time to
enter actively into public affairs, although he endeavors to support good
men and movements and to advance the cause of education and good
citizenship. Republican candidates and principles have always received
his vote.
Homer B. Jones. On the Anderson road, just outside the village
of Florida, in Lafayette township, there is situated a fine rural home-
stead of Homer B. Jones. This is a place of two hundred acres, of fine
land, and with such improvements as are familiarly associated with
modern high-class agriculture. The owner is a progressive young
farmer citizen of Madison county, and a representative of the second
generation of a family which had been identified with this county for
many years.
Homer B. Jones was bom on the farm which he now occupies on
602 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
November 6, 1882, a son of John L. and Sallie (Lowmau) Jones. His
father, John L. Jones, was a large land owner and an extensive farmer
of this county. His family of four children were as follows: Minnie
Ragan ; Bertha, deceased ; Homer B. ; and Dale. The father moved
from his farm to Anderson about seven years ago and died about three
years ago. Since then the mother has returned to the country and now
resides with her son Dale at Florida. Her son. Dale, who is also a
student of Purdue University, has a Little place of ten acres, adjoining
Florida, and operates that as a small farm.
Homer B. Jones attended the country schools and was engaged in
the activities of the farm throughout his school period. He was mar-
ried November 21, 1905, to Nell Thornberg, of Anderson, a daughter
of Richard and Ara belle (Thomas) Thornberg. Their two children
are Richard L., age about six years, and Ralph, age about three. Mr.
Jones is a public spirited citizen so far as local affairs are concerned,
but otherwise takes little interest in politics. He and his wife are both
young people and find their society in the city of Anderson. Both are
members of the Methodist church, and activelv interested in church
work.
Robert Oliver Perry Thurston. The wise and vigorous applica-
tion of practical industry never fails of success. It is the medium
through which an individual is carried onward and upward, developing
his personal character and acting as a powerful stimulus to the efforts
of others. The exercise of the ordinary qualities of perseverance and
common sense may form the means through which the greatest results
in life are attained, the every-day life, with its necessities, cares and
duties, affording ample opportunities for acquiring experience of the
best kind, and its most beaten paths providing a true worker with abun-
dant scope for effort and self-improvement. In the field of daily activity
in his chosen vocation, Robert Oliver Perry Thurston has won success,
an enviable reputation and a place among the representative agricul-
turists of Madison county, where he is the owner of a well-cultivated farm
of eighty acres on the township road between Monroe and Richland.
Mr. Thurston is a native of Madison county, having been born near the
town of Summitville, March 19, 1861, a son of John F. and Margaret
(Morris) Thurston. His father, a successful farmer, was the ovraer
of several valuable farms, and spent his entire life in the cultivation of
the soil. He was county commissioner of the county for two terms. He
and his wife were the parents of six children : Mary E., who became
the wife of James Woolen ; Enoch P. ; Nannie B., who is now Mrs.
Joseph Howard, deceased ; Robert Oliver Perry ; George F. and Ora W.
Robert 0. P. Thurston received his education in' Boone township,
where he attended what was known as the Dead Dog school during the
winter terms, and, like other farmers' sons of his days and locality,
spent the rest of the year in working on the homestead farm. His father
gave him a thorough and comprehensive training in the various subjects
desirable for the successful farmer to know, and by the time he had
reached his majority he was prepared to enter upon a career of his
own. Accordingly, he left the parental roof and rented a small prop-
erty in Boone tovraship, and there, in addition to carrying on general
farming he engaged in trading in stock of all kinds, thus ^cumulating
the means with which to buy hi^ present farm in Monroe township. Here
he has erected buildings of a modern and substantial character and has
made numerous other improvements, his property being one of the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 603
most valuable of its size in this section. He is a firm believer in modem
methods and machinery and keeps fully abreast of the inventions and
discoveries of his calling, giving each innovation a thorough trial before
its acceptance or dismissal. As one of his community's energetic and
public-spirited citizens, he has joined others in their efforts to advance
their locality's interests. Personally, Mr. Thurston is popular with
his neighbors and acquaintances and has a wide circle of friends.
On March 8, 1884, Mr. Thurston was married to iliss Mary L. Stan-
ley, daughter of Isaac E. and Elizabeth (Fear) Stanley, and seven
children have been bom to this union, as follows: Chester H., of Monroe
township, who married Miss Mary Ferguson; Edgar F., also of this
township, who married Miss May Stevenson ; Samuel S. ; Clifford H. ;
Cletis and Earl, all residing at home with their parents ; and Nellie, who
became the wife of Samuel Washburn. M/. Thurston's parents were
consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church and Mrs. Thurs-
ton is a member of the Christian church. In his political views, Mr.
Thurston supports Democratic candidates and policies.
John H. Sigler. As a farmer and stock raiser, Mr. Sigler is one of
the most prominent in Boone township of Madison county, and is a suc-
cessful representative of a family which has been identified with sim-
ilar interests in this county since the era of early settlement. In Pipe
Creek township, and other sections of the county, the Siglers have
been noted as skillful managers of the resources of the soil and have
maintained high standards in the local society and citizenship. John
H. Sigler operates and is owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land
on the Shiloh road, about six and a half miles northeast of Elwood, and
his daily mail facilities lie along that road from Elwood, his rural route
being No. 28.
John H. Sigler was born in 1869 in Pipe Creek township near Frank-
ton, a son of Andrew Jackson and Mina (Pierce) Sigler. Andrew
Jackson Sigler, who is still living, was born in Pipe Creek township,
and is one of the oldest living native sons of that township. The two
children in his family are: John H. and a daughter, Josie, who mar-
ried Mr. Waymire. Mr. and ilrs. Waymire have five children named
Vernice, Howard, Vesta, Mina and Louis.
John H. Sigler as a bo}' was reared in Pipe Creek township, attended
the Salem schools, and other local educational institutions. While a
school boy he was also learning his practical lessons as a practical agri-
culturist, and when his school days were over he applied himself to
the work of the home farm until he was twenty-three years of age. He
then began his independent career by renting his uncle's farm. Later
he moved to Boone township, where he bought his present estate. Mr.
Sigler raises most of the crops which can be profitably grown in this
county, and concentrates his attention on hogs and horses, being most
ouecessful as a stock raiser. On October 20, 1892, Mr. Sigler married
Miss Nelia Kimmerling, a daughter of Abe and Mary (Legg) Kimmer-
ling. Jlr. and Mrs. Sigler are the parents of six children, namely:
Russell. Lester, Roliff, Kenneth, Vernon and Mildred. The two oldest
sons have both finished their high sohool courses in Elwood, while the
others are still attending the various grades of school. The family
worship in the Christian church, and Mr. Sigler is a Democrat in poli-
tics, as has been his family throughout their residence in Madison
county.
604 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Wn.T.TAM Emmett Cartwkight. Young men of character and abil-
ity are bound to be recognized in their community and to such a class
William E. Cartwright belongs. Mr. Cartwright comes from sterling
parentage and ancestry in the county of Madison, as well as of the
nation, for he dates his ancestry back to grandfather of the famous
Peter Cartwright, well known in the history of our country. Mr. Cart-
wright is the choice of the citizens of Summitville and vicinity as the
coming postmaster of the thriving village, and his honesty of character
has been a factor that entered largely into his appointment to this office
under the Wilson administration.
William E. Cartwright, more generally known as Emmett, has been
a resident of Madison county, Indiana, all his life, for he was bom here
September 17, 1884, and he is a son of T. E. and LUy M. (Kaufman)
Cartwright. The Kaufman -family emigrated from Mason county, West
Virginia, to Madison county, Indiana, in 1853, and here maintained their
residence to the end of their days. Mr. Cartwright 's father, T. E. Cart-
wright, is one of the leading citizens and business men of Summit-
ville, and is a gentleman of more than average intellect. He is one of
the best posted men in the county in the matter of Indian lore and in
the history of pioneer days in Indiana.
Mr. Cartwright was reared in his native county and had his educa-
tion in the graded and high schools, after which he pursued a course in
the Indiana Business College. On the home farm he had an especially
good training under the tutelage of his father, and he not only was
taught the business of farming, but he had inculcated in him principles
of integrity and honor that fitted him for the worthy career of his life.
He was in the employ of the Indiana Union Traction Co. for two
years and was with the Muncie & Portland Traction Co. for one year,
besides which he spent about one year as a commercial salesman in
Indiana and Ohio. He has always been a great admirer of William J.
Bryan, or since he was a boy of twelve, and he is an advocate of Demo-
cratic policies.
Fraternally he is an honored member of the B. P. 0. E., Lodge
No. 478, at Alexandria. He has taken great pleasure in the profound
study of modern psychology, and his library includes the works of the
most erudite writer on the subject. Mr. Cartwright is among the social
leaders in Summitville, and he enjoys the high regard of all.
Robert McLain. The record of Robert McLain, of Summitville, is
one distinguished by progressive rise from small things to ever increas-
ing responsibilities and success. A native son of Madison county, where
he was reared, and where he has been known throughout his career, Mr.
McLain has gone from one position to another, always forward, and
formerly a teacher he graduated from that work into merchandising,
has been a factor in local financial circles, and is well known in politics
and in the law, being a member of the Madison county bar.
Robert McLain was born on a farm in Madison county March 26,
1869. His parents were Harrison and Emeline (Thurston) McLain.
His father, who was bom in Brown county, Ohio, in 1837, came to Madi-
son county in 1865 at the close of the Civil war, and bought the old
Peter Eaton farm, which for upwards of half a century has been known
as the McLain homestead. Of the six children in the family, three are
deceased — William, Charles and Ellen, and the three still living are:
Mrs. Clara Swaim ; Walter, a resident of Missouri ; and Robert.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 605
In the country schools of Madison county, Robert McLain received
his first preparation for practical life, and finally qualified himself
for school teaching, a profession which he followed four years. This
gave him a start in the world, and in 1893, with a limited capital of one
hundred and fifty dollars, he bought a stock of hardware and eventually
built up an excellent business in Summitville. 'Sir. McLain takes special
pride in having assisted at the merging of the Summitville bank, the
Farmers and Merchants bank and the Summitville Realty Company into
one institution. The new establishment is styled the Summitville Bank
and Trust Company, and Mr. McLain was placed in charge of the trust
department. A few years ago he was made a member of the Madison
County Bar Association, and this qualification particularly fitted him
for this line of work in the Bank and Trust company.
On April 15, 1896, Mr. McLain married Miss Mary Hannon, a daugh-
ter of James Hannon. They are the parents of two children, Harry and
Wilber. Mr. McLain has not only been successful in business but has
taken an active part in public atfairs. For four years he held the office
of township trustee of Van Buren township, was chairman of the Demo-
cratic County Central Committee in 1908, and in the campaign of that
year had the honor of leading his party to a decisive victory after years
of defeat. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias, the Improved
Order of Red Men and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. McLain
has ever stood an advocate of improvement and • advancement, always
aligning himself with those working for a better moral community, and
he has had miich influence in educational work and in the establishment
of a better citizenship.
Walter W. Vestal. On a finely improved estate of two hundred
acres in Adams township, Walter W. Vestal is most successfully engaged
in diversified agriculture and the raising of high grade stock. He was
born on a farm adjoining his present estate, has lived here during the
entire period of his life, and he commands the confidence and esteem
of all who have known him from earUest youth. Mr. Vestal is in fact
a man of self-achievements. He-began his career without capital, married
when he was still a young man and has not only established and main-
tained a good home, but has gained his share of prosperity which makes
him an enviable figure in the local citizenship.
Walter W. Vestal was born in Adams township February 18, 1868,
a son of L. C. and Sophia (Poke) Vestal. Both parents were natives of
North Carolina, where they were reared, educated and married, and
came to Indiana in 1866, locating in Adams township of Madison county.
During the Civil war the father spent four years in the Confederate
army. It was not from belief in the principles for which the South
fought that he entered the army, since he was personally opposed to
Secession, and his service was the result of a draft. He had one brother
who fought on the Union side, so that the matter was equalized to a
large degree. Mr. L. C. Vestal is now retired from farming, and makes
his home in Anderson. In politics he is a Republican and supported that
party from its early organization up to the campaign of 1912, at which
time he voted with the Progressives. The six children in the family
are named as follows: Walter W. ; Edgar N. and I. L., both residents
of Anderson township ; Forest, on the old home farm in Adams town-
ship ; Esther, who is unmarried and makes her home in Anderson, and
606 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Myrtle, wife of John Clark. All the children own farms of their own
and all have prospered during their individual careers.
"Walter "W. Vestal was reared on the home farm and in the meantime
attended the district school in that neighborhood. "When he was twenty-
three he began life for himself, and his valued possessions at that time
were a horse and buggy. On February 24, 1S91, he married Miss ^Meiggie
Stanley, who was born in Anderson township of this county, and a
daughter of Meridith Stanley. She attained her education in the dis-
trict schools. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Vestal spent tlve years
as renters and with the thrifty accumulations from their hard labor
as tenant farmers, they got their first substantial start. Buying land
and paying for it afterwards and then adding bit by bit in quantity
and constantly improving the estate, they now have one of the finest
homesteads in Adams township, two hundred acres, and with numerous
handsome improvements. In 1908 they built a modern residence, which
is heated with a hot water plant and there is also an individual light
plant which furnishes lighting for both the house and the outbuildings.
The most profitable pait of Mr. Vestal's farming enterprise has been
in the raising of hogs and cattle, and his successful management in this
branch of husbandry has been responsible for his steady increase in
prosperity.
Mr. and Mrs. Vestal have one daughter, Elsie, who is a graduate
oi the Anderson high school, and is now the wife of Forest Ryan. ]\Ir.
Ryan is also a graduate of the Anderson high school, and he and his
wife now live on the estate of Mr. Vestal. They have one child, Mary
Ryan, age one year. The family worship in the Christian church at
Ovid, in Adams township. In politics Mr. Vestal is a Progressive, but
during all the years previous to 1912 was a Republican.
James il. Donnelly. Prominent among those who have wielded
much influence in connection with the improving and advancing of the
Live stock industry in Madison county stands Mr. Donnelly, who is one
of the largest importers and breeders of high grade stock in this part
of the state and who is known as a progressive, liberal and public spir-
ited citizen, as well as one who is entitled to the unqualified popular
esteem in which he is held in the community.
Mr. Donnelly takes just pride in tracing his lineage back to staunch
old Irish origin and also in claiming the fine old Bluegrass state as the
place of his nativity. He was born at Maysville, Kentucky, the judicial
center of Mason county, on the 15th of September, 1860, a son of John
and Julia (Karney) Donnelly, both of whom were born and reared in
Ireland, where their marriage was solemnized. Upon his immigration
to America John Donnelly settled near Maysville, Kentucky, in which
state he continued to reside until 1864, when he came to Madison county,
Indiana, and numbered himself among its energetic and loyal pioneers.
He purchased a tract of land in Fall Creek township, whence he later
removed to Richland township, where he became the owner of a fine
farm, and where he was a citizen known and honored for his sterling,
attributes of character. He continued to reside on his old homestead,
comprising seventy-five acres, until his death, and his cherished and
devoted wife survived him several years. Of their two children, the
younger, John, died at the age of thirty-five years.
On the home farm James M. Donnelly early learned the lessons of
practical industry, and after duly availing himself of the advantages
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 607
of the local schools he supplemented this discipline by a course of study
in the State Normal School at Terre Haute. He applied himself earnestly
and with marked ambition, the result being that he admirably qualified
himself for the responsibilities and duties of the pedagogic profession.
After devoting eight years to successful teaching in the public schools
Mr. Donnelly went to the city of ^luncie, this state, where he read law
under effective preceptorship and where he was finally admitted to the
bar. But such was the condition of his health that after engaging
for a short period in the practice of his chosen profession he found it
expedient to seek occupation that would enable him to lead a less seden-
tary life. He accordingly turned his attention to farming and stock
growing, his independent operations in this line having been instituted
on a farm of forty acres in Monroe township, Madison county. With
characteristic circumspection and energy he brought to bear his powers
in a most effective way, with the result that his success became cumu-
lative and placed him among the representative agriculturists and stock
growers of this favored section of the Hoosier state. Concrete evidence
of the prosperity that has attended his well ordered endeavors is afforded
in the fact that he is now the owner of a finely improved landed estate
of about five hundred and fifty acres, situated principally in Union
township. He has made excellent improvements on his homestead, and
has stood as a man of most liberal and progressive policies in connec-
tion with his private business affairs and also those of public or general
order. For a number of j^ears past Mr. Donnelly has given his attention
principally to the breeding and raising of the best grades of live stock,
and has been an extensive importer as well as one of the leading ex-
ponents of this important line of industry in Madison county. He is
one of the largest dealers and importers in central Indiana of Belgian
and Percheron stallions and mares. He has seventy-five heed of horses,
has two barns, three hundred by forty-two feet, and carries one of the best
stocks in the country. He is an authority in regard to live stock, and
has shown the deepest interest in the furtherance of the industry. His
homestead farm is situated five miles from Anderson and one mile
north of the village of Chesterfield, and is one of the valuable properties
of the county. Jlr. Donnelly platted the Madison county fair grounds,
and for several years was engaged in the real estate business in Ander-
son. He is a member of the directorate of the Anderson Trust Company
at Anderson, where he is likewise a director of the Anderson Building
& Loan Association, another of the important corporations of Madison
county. He is a stanch Democrat in his political proclivities, but has
manifested no predilection for the honors or emoluments of public
office. He and his family hold membership in the Christian church at
Anderson, where he is also affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and other fraternal organizations.
On the 25th of February, 1882, Mr. Donnelly was married to Miss
Lulu Pence, a daughter of John and Rhoda (Colvin) Pence, of Madison
county, and the five children of this union are Wade, Ward, Walter,
Fred and Dale. Wade, who wedded Miss Lillian McClintock, resides
in Anderson. Ward, who wedded Miss Florence Bassett, resides in
Chesterfield. The three younger sons remain at the parental home.
The family have long been one of prominence and popularity in the
social activities of the community.
608 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Chables W. Dawson. Among the business men of iladison couuty
who have from small beginnings made substantial places for themselves
among the prosperous citizens of this place, a notable example is to be
found in the person of Charles W. Dawson, proprietor of the Dawson
Machine Works, at 16th and B Streets in Elwood. His success in the
business world is well merited, in that it has come through the medium
of well directed industry, while as a citizen he has ever shown a com-
mendable inclination to assist in all movements pertaining to the public
welfare.
Mr. Dawson is a native of the Hoosier State, having been born at
Greenfield, February 12, 1871, and is a son of Henry L. and Mary (Van-
landingham) Dawson. The paternal grandparents of Mr. Dawson,
George and Rebecca Dawson, were early pioneers of Indiana, where
both died in advanced years and were the parents of three children,
Henry, Jesse and one other.
Henry L. Dawson was born in Indiana, and has spent his entire
life in this state, with the exception of two and a half years, when he
served as a private in the Union Arinj^ during the Civil war. For a
number of years he was engaged in agricultural pursuits, but siibse-
quently turned his attention to contracting, and is now one of the
well known business men of Indianapolis. He first married Mary Van-
landingham of Indiana, who died in the faith of the Methodist church
in 1877, aged about twenty-six years, and they became the parents of
five children, namely: Charles W., of Elwood, Indiana; Jesse G., whose
home is in Cleveland, Ohio ; John C, who resides at Franklin Park, Illi-
nois; Luna, who became the wife of J. R. Leab, of Marion, Indiana, and
one child that died in infancy. Mr. Dawson married for his second wife
Miss Rhoda McFadden, and they became the parents of two children :
Cora and Fred.
Charles W. Dawson was reared in Central Indiana, spending his
boyhood and youth in Greenfield and Indianapolis, in which cities he
attended the public schools. In 1885 he first came to Elwood, where he
completed his education and subsequently accompanied his father to
Kokomo, where he learned the trade of machinist, which vocation he
has made his life work. While a resident of this place he met Miss
Myrtle L. Lewis, daughter of Francis and Almira (Tolbert) Lewis,
who afterward became his wife, June 3, 1894. Soon after his marriage
he embarked upon his business career as the proprietor of an establish-
ment at Alexandria. It was here their son Donald Verne was born
May 26, 1895. One year later Mr. Dawson with his family returned
to Elwood and has since made this place his home. The son attended
the public schools here graduating with the class of 1913. The follow-
ing year he entered Purdue University. Immediately on his return to
Elwood Mr. Dawson opened a machine shop which he has continued to
the present time. In 1908 he began the handling of automobiles,
fitting up a well equipped garage, and has principally dealt in Buick
cars, since that time. He has built up an excellent business, handling
a full line of accessories and parts, and having every facility for the
repair of all makes of motor cars. His excellent workmanship has
gained him much patronage, and much of his success is due to that fact
that he personally inspects all work before it is turned out of his estab-
lishment. As one who has the interest of his community at heart, he
has withheld his support from no movement of a progressive nature,
while personally he has gained and retained many friends in the city
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 609
of his adoption. He is a Republican in political matters, but has taken
only a good citizen's intiTcst in affairs of a public nature. His fra-
ternal connection is with tlic local lodgres of the Improved Order of Red
Men and the Independent Order of Foresters. The pleasant family
home ill located at 1023 South Anderson Street.
K. F. Etchisox. a homestead of about si.\ty-five acres located in the
vicinity of Frankton is the residence and the scene of the business activi-
ties of Mr. R. T. EtchisoH, one of the well known citizens of Madison
county, and representing an old and honored family in this part of the
State.
Mr. R. F. Etchison was born April 2U, 1871, a son of Stephen and
Charity Jane Etchison, both now deceased. Stephen Etchison was born
in Wayne county, Indiana, and moved to Madison county, where he was
a farmer and honored resident for many years. There were fourteen
children in the family, and the four boys now living are William and
Walter C. both of Oklahoma, and Albert, a resident of Saskatchewan,
Canada, and R. F. Etchison.
As a boy ilr. R. F. Etchison attended the common schools and his
home throughout his career has been on the farm of his present resi-
dence. After completing his education, he took up regular duties of
farming, and on the death of his father he assumed entire management
of the estate. He and Albert subse(|uently bought out the interest of
the other heirs in the farm, and Mr. R. F. Etchison has since then
acquired individual ownership of the excellent farm, which is his present
home. He married. Miss Eldora Leeman. Their two children are
Chandos Leone and Meredith. In politics Mr. Etchison is a Democrat.
On his farm he raises stock and the usual agricultural crop of this sec-
tion, and by his thrift and industry is winning a substantial place for
himself and family.
OuvER H. Stoker. Situated on the Stoker Road about two and a
half miles from Elwood is the well improved and prosperous rural home
of Oliver H. Stoker, who has made an excellent account of his time and
energy as a Madison countj' farmer, and has one of the best improved
farm estates in Pipe Creek township. The farm, most of which belonged
to his father, and has been in the possession of the Stoker family for a
great many years, consists of one hundred and sixty acres of excellent
soil, and Mr. Stoker devotes it to mixed farming, raising first class stock,
and the various agricultural crops of this county.
Oliver H. Stoker was born on this same farm, February 18, 1870,
a son of William R. and Mary (Canaday) Stoker. The late WiUiara
R. Stoker, well remembered among the sterling citizenship of Madison
county for many years, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, and
was a boy when brought to Madjson county. He had some schooling in his
native state and finished in Indiana. He came to Madison county in
company with his parents. James and Rebecca Stoker. James Stoker,
the grandfather of the Pipe Creek farmer first named, was thus the
founder of the family fortunes in this part of Indiana. William R.
Stoker and wife were the parents of three children. Oliver H., Martha,
married Richard McClure. and their two children were named Edna and
Howard. The third was William Franklin Stoker, now deceased. Up
to the time of his death he owned and occupied the farm adjoining his
610 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
brother's Oliver H. William F. Stoker married Catherine Higbee,
and they were the parents of two children.
Oliver H. Stoker as a boy attended the old Canaday school, which
was a familiar institution of the neighborhood in which he was reared,
and completed his education in the Frankton public school. While
going to school he had his share of the farm duties, and after the death
of his father he and his brother joined in the management and conduct
of the home estate, which was a place of two hundred acres but increased
to three hundred and twenty acres. When his brother died the farm
was divided and Mr. Oliver H. Stoker now owils one hundred and sixty
acres, and is giving it his best efforts and is prospering probably as well
as any farmer in this section of the county.
On September 19, 1901, Mr. Stoker married Miss Jennie Antle,
daughter of George W. and Wilhelmina (Euble) Antle. Her father was
a farmer, and owned a good homestead near Elwood. Mr. and Mrs.
Stoker were the parents of four children. Their names are: Mildred
Naomi, Thelma Hortense, Ilalden A. and Benjamin Franklin. Frater-
nally Mr. Stoker is a member of the Knights of Pythias, and is a Repub-
lican voter.
J. L. Websteb Peck, M. D. Practicing medicine at Frankton since
1895, Dr. Peck has one of the best country practices in Madison county,
and by his success and individual character and ability is a credit to
the present medical fraternity of this eount.y. He came here soon after
leaving medical college, and after proving his skill and gaining the
confidence of the community has always enjoyed a liberal share of its
patronage and stands high both as a doctor and citizen.
J. L. Webster Peck was born in Howard county, Indiana, a son of
William and Sarah (Foland) Peck. The father and mother were both
natives of Hamilton county, and William Peck gave his life to the min-
istry of the Methodist church. The five children in their family were
named Maggie A. ; Jennie, deceased ; Ethleen, deceased ; Halsie, de-
ceased; and Dr. Peck.
Owing to the fact that his father's ministry required frequent
removal of residence. Dr. Peck spent his boyhood in a number of dif-
ferent localities in Indiana, and tended various schools in the course of
his educational career. He was a student in the high school at Hagers-
town, spent two years in the DePauw University, and was graduated
in medicine at Indianapolis. In 1895 he located at Frankton, and has
since had his office in this town.
On January 10, 1900, Dr. Peck married Mary A. Prosser, daughter
of Emanuel and Susan Prosser. The four children born to their mar-
riage are Earl P., William L., Alice Beatrice and Mary Vivian. The
doctor belongs to the Madison county and the State Medical Societies,
is afSliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and he and his
family worship in the Methodist church.
The Hoosier Poet (By J. L. F.). James Whitcomb Riley, born in
Greenfield, Hancock county, Indiana, where he was reared, educated, and
spent his boyhood days, is entitled to a place in the history of Jladison
county.
Mr. Riley for several years made his home in Anderson, where he
was connected with the local press as reporter on the Anderson Demo-
JAMES W. RILEY
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 611
crat. This was wliile Todysman and Croau were its publishers, 1876-80.
During this period Mr. Riley began to develop as a local poet.
His first production that gave him "a name" was "Leonainie," a
supposed unpublished poem by Edgar Allen Poe, which had for years
been lost, and found among his papers. Mr. Riley had this poem pub-
lished in the Kokomu Dispatch. The editor of the Anderson Herald,
who had on many occasions belittled Riley's pretensions as a poet, gave
large space to its publication, and great praise to its sentiment, oblivious
to the fact that it was from Riley's pen. When the secret was out and
the world gave praise to the author, his old-time critic joined in the
procession and helped to make Riley a real poet.
Mr. Riley's genial disposition and plebian ways made him a favorite
in Anderson. The "devil" in the printing office was as close to him
as the editor. The man on the street was treated as cordially as the
"nabob" of the city, A man possessed of such qualities could not be
other than a favorite. His verses demonstrate that his heart-throbs are
with the common folk.
Madison county does not claim Riley- as a native son, but glorifies in
the fact that he once lived within its bounds. Mr. Riley has sung the
songs that reach the heart. But few men live to hear and see what esteem
is placed upon them by their fellowmen. This distinction Riley has
enjoyed. The writer believes that a flower placed in the hands of the
living, or a good word spoken to a friend, is worth more than a moun-
tain of bouquets placed upon his bier, and therefore gives place in this
work to Mr. Riley's face and one of his dearest compositions.
Out to Old Aunt Maby's
Wasn't it pleasant, 0 brother mine,
In those old days of the lost sunshine
Of youth — when the Saturday's chores were through.
And the "Sunday's wood" in the kitchen, too,
And we went visiting, "me and you,"
Out to old Aunt Mary's?
"Me and you" — aod the morning fair,
With the dewdrops twinkling everywhere;
The scent of the cherry-blossoms blown
After us, in the roadway lone,
Our capering shadows onward thrown —
Out to old Aunt Mary's !
It all comes back so clear today !
Though I am as bald as you are gray, —
Out by the barn-lot, and down the lane
We patter along in the dust again.
As light as the tips of the drops of the rain.
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
The few last houses of the town ;
Then on, up the high creek-bluffs and down;
Past the squat toll-gate, with its well-sweep pole;
The bridge, and the old "babtizin'-hole,"
Loitering, awed, over pool and shoal.
Out to Old Aunt Mary's,
612 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
We cross the pasture, and through the wood,
Where the old gray snag of the poplar stood
Where the hammering "red-heads" hopped awry,
And the buzzard "raised" in the "clearing" sky
And lolled and circled, as we went by
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
Or, stayed by the glint of a redbird's wings,
Or the glitter of song that the bluebird sings,
All hushed we feign to strike strange trails,
As the "big braves" do in the Indian tales,
Till again our real quest lags and fails —
Out to old Aunt Mary's. —
And the woodland echoes with yells of mirth
That make old war-whoops of minor worth, —
Where such heroes of war as we? —
With bows and arrows of fantasy,
Chasing each other from tree to tree
Out to old Aunt Mary's!
And then in the dust of the road again ;
And the teams we met, and the countrymen ;
And the long highway, with sunshine spread
As thick as butter on country bread.
Our cares behind, and our hearts ahead
Out to old Aunt Mary's. —
For only, now, at the road's next bend
To the right we could make out the gable-end
Of the fine old Huston homestead — not
Half a mile from the sacred spot
Where dwelt our Saint in her simple cot —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
Why, I see her now in the open door
Where the little gourds grew up the sides and o'er
The clapboard roof ! — and her face — ah, me !
Wasn't it good for a boy to see —
And wasn't it good for a boy to be
Out to old Aunt Mary's? —
The jelly — the jam and the marmalade.
And the cherry — and quince — "preserves" she made!
And the sweet-sour pickles of peach and pear.
With cinnamon in 'em, an all things rare! —
Abd the more we ate was the more to spare.
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
Was there, ever, so kind a face
And gentle as hers, or such a grace
Of welcoming, as she cut the cake
Or the juicy pies that she joyed to make
Just for the visiting children's sake —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 613
The honey, too, in its amber comb
One only finds in an old farm-home ;
And the coffee, fragrant and sweet, and ho!
So hot that we gloried to drink it so,
With spangles of tears in our eyes, you know —
Out to old Aunt Marj''s.
And the romps we took, in our glad unrest ! —
Was it the lawn that we loved the best,
With its swooping swing in the locust trees,
Or was it the grove, with its leafy breeze.
Or the dim hay-mow, with its fragrances —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
Far fields, bottom-lands, creek-banks — all
We ranged at will — where the waterfall
Laughed all day as it slowly poured
Over the dam by the old mill-ford.
While the tail-race writhed and the mill-wheel roared —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
But home, with Aunty in nearer call,
That was the best place, after all ! —
The talks on the back-porch, in the low
Slanting sun and the evening glow,
With the voice of counsel that touched us so,
Out to old Aunt Marj''s.
And then, in the garden — near the side
Where the bee-hives were and the path was wide, —
The apple-house — like a fairy cell —
With the little square door we knew so well,
And the wealth inside but our tongues could teU —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
And the old spring-house, in the cool green gloom
Of the willow trees — and the cooler room
Where the swinging shelves and the crocks were kept,
Where the cream in a golden languor slept,
While the waters gurgled and laughed and wept —
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
And as many a time have you and I —
Barefoot boys in the days gone by —
Knelt, and in tremulous eestacies
Dipped our lips into sweets like these, —
Memory now is on her knees
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
For, 0 my brother so far away.
This is to tell you — she waits to-day
To welcome us: — Aunt Mary fell
Asleep this morning, whispering — "Tell
The boys to come." . . . And all is well
Out to old Aunt Mary's.
614 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
James 0. Lee. As cashier of the Franktoa Bank since 1902, Mr. Lee
has had the executive direction of an institution that plays a very im-
portant part in the local business activities of this section of Madison
county, possessing much influence both as a citizen and as a man of
business. Mr. Lee has earned his place as a result of high ability and
through steady attention to business since leaving college, and has ac-
complished a gi'cat deal of worthy work since he entered upon his
active career.
James 0. Lee was born in 1870, on the nineteenth day of Septem-
ber, in Hamilton county, Indiana, near Perkinsville. His parents were
Luther and Ella (Devvitt) Lee. The father, also a native of Hamilton
county, was a merchant by occupation and was also engaged in the
canning business at Perkinsville. The three children in his family com-
prised James 0., Frank and Claude. James 0. Lee first attended the
schools in Perkinsville, was then in the Normal College at Danville,
spent the years 1890-91 at DePauw University, and was graduated with
honors at Lexington, Kentucky. During eleven years of his active life,
both during and subsequent to his college days, he was engaged in
teaching school. Another honor that came to him in early life was that
of appointment as chief journal clerk in the Indianapolis Legislature, a
position which he held for one year. He became identified with the
milling business at Frankton and was connected with the establish-
ment until the plant was destroyed by fire. He entered the Frankton
Bank in October, 1902, since which time he has been cashier, and
practically the manager of the affairs of the bank.
On December 27, 1893, Mr. Lee was married to Miss Luella Wise,
daughter of William H. Wise of Perkinsville. They have two children,
Mabel and Wilbur, both of whom are now attending school in Frankton.
Fraternally Mr. Lee is a member of the Masonic order, the Knights
of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was re-
cently a candidate for the office of county clerk on the Republican
ticket, and is known for one of the young leaders of that party in
Madison county. He is a Methodist in his religious afliliation, and he
and his family worship in that church.
George Washington Baker. Since 1880 a resident of Madison
county, Mr. Baker has resided on his present farm for the past 13 years,
and is one of the capable men whose industry and energies are each
year adding to the substantial wealth and prosperity of Madison
county. Mr. Baker's homestead is situated six miles northeast of
Elwood in Pipe Creek township.
George W. Baker was born in 1854 on the tenth of March, in Dear-
born county, near Lawrenceburg, Indiana, a son of John and Senor
(Moore) Baker. The father was bom in southern Indiana, and his
death occurred in Ripley county, where he was buried. The children
in the family were as follows : George W. ; Kachael ; Harvey, also a
resident of Madison county; James; and Ida, who is now the widow of
Chas. Baxter.
George Washington Baker as a boy attended school in Ohio and Ripley
counties, Indiana, completing his education in the latter county.
While going to school he worked on a farm and has always known and
experienced the value of industiy and good honest work. In 1880 he
moved to Madison county, and in 1892 had progressed so far as an
independent farmer and business man that he bought his present estate.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 615
On November 21, 1878, Mr. Baker married Miss Sarah Rigor, a daugh-
ter of Andrew and Harriet (Humphrey) Rigor. Her father was bom
in Kentucky and came to Decatur county, Indiana, when a young man,
and brought up his family on a farm. There were eight children in
the Rigor family, namely: Hannah, deceased; Sarah, Mrs. Baker;
Joshua; Wesley; Permela; Lula; Amy, deceased; and Leonard. Mr.
and ilrs. Baker are the parents of four children, who are named as
follows: Clifford, who is married and a resident of Canada, and has
three children, George, Ruth and Lois; Floy, the wife of William Hoop;
John, in high school at Elwood; and Vere, who graduated from the
grade schools. Mr. Baker has given all his attention to general farm-
ing and stock raising and has each year put back a large share of his
profits in improvements which in the course of time have made his
estate one of the best and most valuable in this locality. He has a
large and commodious barn for the shelter of his grain and stock, and
all his implements and facilities are in keeping with modem agricul-
ture. i\ir. Baker is not only a progressive farmer, but also a progress-
ive in politics, having adopted the new principles and policies first
formulated in a campaign platform in 1912. He and his family are
members of the Friends church located in Pipe Creek township.
AsBUBY M. MooKE. A retired farmer now making his home at 2020
E. Main street in Elwood, Mr. Moore is one of the estimable members
of Madison county citizenship. He has had a career of industrious
and profitable farming and early in life adopted the vocation of culti-
vating the soil as the most important labor of man. While not actively
engaged in producing the crops of the soil he still owns a fine farm
of one hundred and eighty acres, situated on the county line road about
three and a half miles south of Elwood.
Mr. Moore is known among his friends and associates as a gentle-
man of high standing. He was born in Tipton county, Indiana, April
21, 1860, a son of Joseph and AngeUne (Armfield) Moore. The father
was a native of Wayne count}*, Indiana. He moved to Madison county
in 1836 and was one of the old families which located in that section
of the county. There were only two sons and the other is Azro F.
Moore, now a druggist in Tipton. Mr. Moore as a boy attended the
Darrow schools, and finished his education in the Tipton high school.
He began his career by working as a farm laborer, at monthly wages,
and also worked for his father for several years. He finally bought
out the interest of his brother in the home farm, and during the suc-
ceeding years gradually acquired an excellent property which has
proved a competence. Besides his fine farm above mentioned he is the
owner of considerable town property. Mr. Moore was married Sep-
tember 28, 1881, to Miss Eva Richardson, now deceased. She was the
mother of two children. Fern, deceased, and Bertha L. now the wife of
Jesse Rice. For his second wife Mr. Moore married Miss Clara B.
Hughel October 2, 1892, and their two children are Marie and Clarice.
Mrs. Moore is a native of old Madison county, bom April 13, 1864,
and was reared and educated in her native county. She is a member
of the Eastern Star of Tipton, Indiana, and she and husband are mem-
bers of the Presbyterian church at Tipton.
Fraternally Mr. Moore is an honored member of the Masonic Lodge,
the Modem Woodmen of America and the Maccabees. He is a great
friend of Indiana's excellent school system and while a resident of
T»i. n— IT
616 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Tipton, was a member of the board of education of the city schools.
He is a Democrat in politics. He and his wife, take the good of their
means, and spend part of it in travel. They spent six months on the
Pacific slope, most of the time at Seattle, Washington.
William H. Wise. An example of first class stock and general
farming enterprise is found in Pipe Creek township, along the Dun-
dee and Frankton Roads, on the ninety acre homestead of Mr. Wm. H.
Wise, a progressive farmer who has spent nearly all his life in this
section of Indiana, and while getting his share of the world's goods, he
has also exercised the qualities of good citizenship, and is a man thor-
oughly esteemed throughout his township.
Mr. Wise was born in Jackson township of i\Iadison county, near
Perkinsville, on January 5, 1861. His father is Alexander Wise, one
of the old and honored residents of Madison county, a sketch of whom
and his family will be found on other pages of this work. William H.
Wise was reared in the home established by his father in Madison
county, and was given unusual advantages both in education and in
opportunities for getting properly started in life. As a boy he
attended the country schools of the township, and also became familiar
with the duties of the home farm. His education was finished in the
De Pauw University at Greencastle, and after leaving college he taught
school for some time in Madison county. From the school room he
turned his attention to farming, and having given mucli of his ener-
gies to this occupation and having made it a real business, he has
accomplished probably more than most of his contemporaries in the
same line of activities. Mr. Wise is a broad-minded man, and performs
his share of community public spirit and is highly honored in his home
locality. As a young man, in addition to the other school advantages
just mentioned he attended for one term at the Danville Central Nor-
mal School.
On September 19, 1886, he married Florence Kimmerling Dipboy.
Mrs. Wise was reared in the family of her grandmother, and took the
latter 's name. The three children of Mr. and Mrs. Wise are Bessie,
Blanche, and Carol. The family worship in the Methodist church.
Hon. J. M. Farlow. A former state senator from Madison county,
one of the most influential men in the Democratic party of this locality,
Mr. Farlow has been a member of the bar for the last quarter of a
century and has his home and office at Frankton, from which vicinity
he has a large clientage. The residents in that locality repose a great
deal of confidence in Mr. Farlow 's judgment and ability as a lawyer,
and he is usually retained in connection with most of the litigation
from this portion of the county.
J. M. Farlow was born on the twenty-first of July, 1839, in Tipton
county, a son of Reuben and Elizabeth (O'Dell) Farlow. The grand-
parents moved from the old homestead of North Carolina to Tipton
county, in the early years of the last century, and about 1833 located
in Pipe Creek township of Madison county. Reuben Farlow was a
young man when the family came to Indiana, and made a very success-
ful farmer in Madison county. He and his wife were the parents of
nine children, and the three now living are Lafayette, Lucinda, and
Senator Farlow. Hon. J. M. Farlow attained his early schooling in
Tipton county and his last school days were spent in the old Picker-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 617
ing schools. He early applied himself tx) farming as an occupation,
has occupied himself with various enterprises and taught school for
ten terms. In the meantime he took up the study of law at leisure
intervals and under such instruction as he could obtain, and was
finally admitted to the bar and engaged in practice, which he has
now continued successfully for twenty-five years or more.
In 1861 he married AJiss Malinda Ilaskett. Six children were bom
of that marriage. One of these is Viola, wife of John Foland, and
their three children ai-e Earl, J. M. and Ellen. A younger daughter
than Viola is Kate, wife of Charles Whitehead, and their four children
are Cecil S., Virgil, Grant and lone. On March 12, 1904, Mr. Farlow
married Miss Margaret Peck, a daughter of William and Sarah (Foland)
Peck, and a sister of Dr. Peck of Frankton. There are no children
by the second marriage.
Mr. Farlow was honored by his fellow citizens in Madison county
by election for two terms to the House of Representatives, and later
was sent to the State Senate for two years. In politics he is a Demo-
crat, and fraternally is a Royal Arch Mason and a member of the Blue
Lodge at Frankton and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias,
and the Improved Order of Red Men. His family are members of
the Methodist church.
Martin Gavin. As manager of his father's farm of one hundred
and forty acres, located on the Elwood Pike about five miles north of
Elwood, Mart Gavin, as he is familiarly known, is one of the progress-
ive young farmers of iladison county, and has laid a substantial
foundation for a successful career.
Mart Gavin was born where he now resides, July 1, 1891, a son
of Martin and Elizabeth (JIcManaman) Gavin. His father was born in
Ireland, was twelve years old when he came to America, and after
landing in New York City, the family came west and finally located in
Rex county, Indiana, where he was reared to manhood. He later came
to Madison county, and from modest beginnings has acquired a gener-
ous estate and prosperity, and is one of the influential men of this
section. The eight children in the family are named as follows: Mame,
Michael, Nora, Nellie, IMart, Maggie, Ruth and John.
JIartin Gavin as a boy attended the country schools and finished
his education in the Catholic school at Elwood. All his early associa-
tions were with farm life, and when he arrived at manhood he was
well prepared to take up the management of the old estate, which
he now conducts in a progressive and up-to-date manner, and is one
of the men who are proving the profitableness of agriculture in Madi-
son county. He is well kno^vn socially in Elwood and vicinity, and
is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic church.
In politics he is a Democrat.
William Etchison. A resident of Madison county during the
greater part of his life, and an honored and respected farmer of Pipe
Creek township, where he is the owner of one hundred and seven acres,
Mr. Etchison has applied, business methods to his work, has won a good
material degree of prosperity, and has provided weU for his family.
William Etchison was born in Jackson township, Madison county,
September 18. 1855, a son of Jackson and Mary (Wise) Etchison. The
father was a native of Wajme county, Indiana, and the paternal grand-
618 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
parents came to Indiana, originally from North Carolina. Among the
children of Jackson Etchison were William, Mrs. Nancy Vv'^orley, John
W., Margaret A., and Mary Olive.
William Etchison as a boy spent part of his time in Hamilton, and
part in Madison county. He grew up on the farm, became conver-
sant with all its duties, and activities, and principally during the winter
term attended the school of his neighborhood.
Mr. Etchison wedded Miss Margaret J. Worley, March 2, 1876, and
to this marriage have been born the following children: Cyrus Jack-
son, Raymond and Nellie Alice, all deceased. The living children are,
Cora M., wife of Minor McClead and they have three children, Guy,
Forest and Margaret; Ora Austin wedded Miss Bertha Duncan and
they have four children, Edna E., Ernest L., John M., and Glen D. ;
Mary K. is wife of Irvine Robbins and they have six children, Nellie B.,
Kenneth, Harry W., William H., Leonard R. and Mabel M. ; Willard
C, married Miss Jessie Waymire and they have one child, Orville D. ;
Virgil A., married Miss Mary Major; Lenna Fay is the youngest and
resides at home.
Mrs. Etchison, wife of the subject is a native of Madison county,
Indiana, and was born March 27, 1853, the second child in a family
of twelve children, seven sons and five daughters, born to Elijah and
Rachel K. (Fifer) Worley. There are nine of this family living at
present, 1914.
Father Worley was a native of Virginia and was an agriculturist.
Politically he was a strong advocate of the Republican principles. He
died in Pipe Creek township. Mother Worley was also a native of
Virginia. Both of Mrs. Etchison 's parents are deceased. She was
reared and educated in Madison county, Indiana, and has nobly done
her part as wife and mother.
When Mr. and Mrs. Worley began their married life they had
little cash capital, but bj' dint of hard toil, frugality and being honest,
they have reared a large family and have one of the best farms of one
hundred and seven acres in Pipe Creek township. A beautiful frame
residence, pretty grounds and fine outbuildings further enhance its
value, and their farm is called "The Maple Grove Stock Farm."
William A. Rtbolt. Now occupying and engaged in the improve-
ment of a nice farm of eighty acres of land lying on the Elwood Pike
near Leisure postoffice, about six and a half miles north of Elwood,
in Duck Creek township, William A. Rybolt is best known and has
made his most successful record not as a farmer, but as a driUer of
wells in the oil and gas regions, and has been connected with the oil
and gas fields in Indiana and elsewhere for a number of years.
William A. Rybolt was born September 24, 1867, in Highland
county, Ohio, a son of William and Emma C. (Brown) Rybolt. Wil-
liam Rybolt, the father, came to Indiana, when his son William waa
one year old, and settled in Grant county. There were only two chil-
dren in the family, and the sister is Glycera.
William A. Rybolt has the early training and experience of the
farmer boy, and attended the public schools of Duck Creek township.
He was made thoroughly familiar with the activities of a farm, and
was well trained in habits of industry and thrift, but when he took up
farming independently he encountered difficulties which were discourag-
ing and which caused him to abandon the occupation for a time. After-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 619
wards he started a second time, hut was again uusuecessful through
bad luck and sickness. These two somewhat disastrous experiments
caused him to leave farming and go to the gas and oil fields, where he
operated as a skillful driller for a number of years. In that work he
has been unusually siiccessful, and has made a good deal of money.
At his mother's death the home farm of eighty acres was left to his
management, and Mr. Rybolt is now engaged in building it up and
improving it into a model estate. He purposes as soon as he has his
land in a satisfactory condition to return to the gas and oil business.
On December 15, 1897, Mr. Rybolt married Miss Cora Steele, a
daughter of H. S. Steele, of Elwood, a retired farmer. Mr. and Mrs.
Rybolt are members of the Christian church, and in polities he is a
Republican, and largely interested in public affairs.
Haevet a. Waymiee. As a breeder and raiser of fine Percheron
horses, Mr. Waymire has a reputation throughout Madison county.
The "Shade Land" stock farm, consisting of one hundred and twenty
acres of fine land in Duck Creek township, and on the rural free deliv-
ery route No. 28, out of Elwood, is a model place of its kind, and its
improvements and adaptations to the uses of modern stock raising are
the results of an exceptional degree of enterprise on the part of Mr.
Waymire. He began his career in this county some years ago, with a
small amount of capital and by thrifty management has become one
of the most popular citizens of this community.
Harvey A. Waymire was born on the farm which he now occu-
pies in Duck Creek township, a son of Jacob and Julia (Greenlee) Way-
mire. His father was born in Warren county, near Independence,
Indiana, in 1853. His parents were Henry and Hulda Waymire. Jacob
Waymire attended the common schools, worked on the home farm' dur-
ing his school period, and was reared and has spent his career in Madi-
son county, to which county he came with his parents when he was
a boy. As a farmer he was successful and was long known as one of the
substantial men of the vicinity. The children of Jacob and Julia Way-
mire were : Oris H., William C, Harvey A., and Lula M., the wife
of E. L. Wiggins, M. D.
Harvey A. Waymire as a boy first attended what was known as the
Old Waymire school, and finished his schooling in the new Waymire
school in Duck Creek to\^^lship. While spending five days in the week
at school he worked in the morning and evening on the home place,
and most of his Saturdays and summer vacations were spent in the
activities of the home farm. When he got his independent start in
life, it was .on eighty acres of land, and since then he has prospered
and added to his land holdings, until he now has one of the best inl-
proved and most profitable estates in Duck Creek township.
On August 14, 1896, Mr. Waymire married Miss Pearl M. Fox,
a daughter of John and Mary (Ring) Fox. Mr. and Mrs. Waymire
are the parents of three children : Jacob L., Marj- F., and John H.,
all of whom are attending the local schools. Fraternally Mr. Way-
mire is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, is an
elder in the Christian church, and votes the Democratic ticket.
I. W. Caeb. a resident of Madison county since 1884, Mr. Carr is
a prosperous farmer of Duck Creek township, residing on rural free
delivery route No. 31, and getting his daily mail from Elwood. His
620 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
neighbors regard him as one of the prosperous and substantial men
of the township, and he is owner and operator of a fine estate of one
hundred and fifteen acres. He began life without money, worked hard
to get his start, and all his success may be credited to his individual
efforts and enterprise.
I. W. Carr was born December 27, 1858, in Rush county, Indiana,
and belongs to a family which became identified with Rush county
during the pioneer days. His parents were James R. and Sarah J.
(Miller) Carr. The father was born in Rush county, and Grandfather
Isaac Carr settled there from the state of Kentucky. James Carr and
wife were the parents of four children, of whom I. W. was the oldest.
The others are Roy, Charles V., and Ora, the last named being deceased.
I. W. Carr as a boy attended the common schools in Rush county,
and not only learned the lessons taught in books, but also acquired
the more valuable instruction of honest industry and thrift as incul-
cated at home. He worked diligently on the home farm, and when
about twenty-two yeai-s of age started out for himself by renting a
tract of land in Rush county. Later he bought a small farm and has
steadily prospered from early manhood to the present time.
On March 31, 1881, Mr. Carr married Sarah A. Lines, a daughter
of Aaron N. Lines and Jennie (Wain) Lines. Both her parents are
now deceased. The one child born to Mr. Carr and wife is Omer, who
married Ora Haines and has one child, Gladys. Mr. Carr is a Demo-
grat in politics and has served as trustee of Duck Creek township. Mr.
and Mrs. Carr's pretty country home is known as "Locust Grove Stock
Farm."
Thomas E. Palmer. The business interests of Elwood, Indiana,
have grown so rapidly within the last decade that today it is known as
one of the leading manufacturing centers of Indiana, and its present
industrial importance may be accredited to a class of progressive, entet-
prising and energetic men of business, whose modern methods and ear-
nest efforts have made the name of the city known all over the coun-
try. As manager of the Ames Shovel & Tool Company, Thomas E.
Palmer holds an acknowledged position of prestige among Elwood 's
leading business citizens. He has resided here only since 1902. but
during this time has shown himself capable of discharging every trust
given him, and at the same time has manifested a commendable publie-
spiritedness that has made him a leader in movements for the general
welfare of his adopted community. He was born in Trenton, New
Jersey, December 8, 1862, and is a son of Thomas and Margaret (Reid)
Palmer.
George Palmer, the paternal grandfather of Thomas E. Palmer, was
born in England, was there married, and subsequently removed to Scot-
land, where he passed away at the age of eighty years, his wife dying
when eighty-six years old. They had only one child, Thomas. The
maternal grandfather of Mr. Palmer was William Reid, who was mar-
ried in his native Scotland to Elizabeth Heron, and some time there-
after emigrated to the United States and settled at Trenton, New Jersey,
where he died at the age of seventy years, after spending his life in
inventing and at the carpenter's trade. His widow subsequently moved
to Cleveland, Ohio, where she passed away at the age of eighty-six years.
But two of their children grew to maturity : Margaret ; and Jane, who
became the wife of James Horton. of Cleveland, Ohio.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 621
Thomas Palmer was born in England, and as a child was taken by
his parents to Scotland, where he was educated and grew to manhood
in the city of Glasgow, there learning the iron industry in all of its
branches. He came to the United States about the year 1850, and
located tirst at Troy, New York, and later became superintendent of
the Trenton Iron Works, at Trenton, New Jersey. Some years later
he removed to the city of Cleveland, Ohio, where he became connected
with tlie Cleveland Rolling Mills, and was identified therewith until
his death in 1908. aged eighty years and some months. He was a
thorough iron master, as were also his father and grandfather before
him. the latter having built tlie first rolling mills in Scotland, and
during the Civil war Thomas Palmer was engaged extensively in the
manufacture of gun-barrel steel. His wife died two years after her
husband, aged about eighty years, and in the faith of the Presbyterian
church, of which he Was also a member. They were the parents of
seven children: George, who resides at Joliet, Illinois; Elizabeth, who
is the wife of William R. Fairlie, of Glasgow, Scotland; William R.,
residing at Bridgeport, Connecticut; Thomas E.; Maria, who became
the wife of W. E. Wright, of Cleveland, Ohio; and Sarah, who is
deceased.
Thomas E. Palmer was but a child when taken to Cleveland, Ohio,
by his parents, and in that city he grew to manhood, attending tlie
public and high schools. It was not unnatural that he adopt the iron
business as his life work, and as a young man he showed he had inherited
tile inclinations and tendencies of his forefathers by entering the
employ of the Cleveland Roller Mill Company. As the years passed
his abilities won him steady promotion, and at different times he was
employed with the Carnegie Sti'el Company, and the American Steel
and Wire Company, at Beaver Falls and Braddock, Pennsylvania. In
1902 he came to Elwood as local manager for the Ames Shovel and Tool
Company, the other ofificers of the concern being as follows : Hobart
Ames, president; Oliver W. Mink, treasurer; Charles H. Myers, W.
J. Alford and Julius C. Birge. vice-presidents; William H. Ames,
secretary: and H. P. Cormerais, assistant secretary. The original
plant of this company was established at North Easton, ilassachusetts,
in 1774, and the company was not incorporated until more than one
hundred years later, in 1875, but the concern now owns a number of
plants, the production of that at Elwood being shovel plate, which is
shipped to the factories in other cities and manufactured into shovels.
It is the largest shovel producing company in the world, and has
factories at the following points: North Easton, Massachusetts; T.
Rowland's Sons, Incorporated, at Cheltenham, Pennsylvania; George
Griffiths Company, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; the H. M. Myers
Company. Beaver Falls. Pennsylvania; the Wright Shovel Company,
at Anderson, Indiana : the St. Louis Shovel Company, at St. Louis,
ilissouri; and handle-plants in New England and the Southwest. The
Elwood plant employs about 150 people, the production being 700
tons of shovel plate per month, and the building being a steel structure,
the heaviest eontrueted building in the state. The pay-roll is between
$8,000 and $10,000 per month, and the plant is operated continuously,
twenty-four hours per day, with three shifts of men. the product meeting
with a ready sale in the leading markets all over the world.
Mr. Palmer has gained the full confidence of his business associates,
who have come to rely upon his sound judgment, his keen perception and
622 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
his business acumen. He is a member of Beaver Valley Lodge No. 478,
F. & A. M., and Harmony Chapter No. 256, R. A. M., both of Beaver
Falls. His support is given to Republican candidates and principles,
but he is not a politician, his large business interests occupying his
entire attention, and he has had no inclination to hold public office.
His religious connection is with the Presbyterian church, of which
Mrs. Palmer is also a member.
On October 4, 1894, Mr. Palmer was married to iliss Lillian May
Dean, who was born at Harlansburg, Pennsylvania, daughter of Enoch
and Sarah (Hall) Dean, both of whom died at Beaver Falls, Pennsyl-
vania. There were four children in the Dean family : Minnie, Lillian
May, Edith Clare and Helen. To Mr. and Mrs. Palmer there have
been born three children : Dorothy Dean and Margaret Reid, both
of whom died in early childhood; and Thomas Dean.
Patrick Shay. From 1853 until his death in 1907, Patrick Shay
was one of the sterling citizens and hard-working and substantial men
of Duck Creek township in Madison county. Coming to America
when a young man, he began life in a strange country, and among a
strange people and Ijy exercise of the qualities inherent in his character,
and by a steadfast industry and devotion to the principles of honest
living, he gained independence, provided liberally for his family, and
left an honored name, which is cherished by his descendants.
Patrick Shay was born in Ireland, 1816, a son of Kenneth Shay.
Kenneth Shay never left his native land, and was a shoemaker by trade
in the old country. He had three children, two sons, Michael and
Patrick, and a daughter. The daughter died in the old country, and
Patrick and Michael both inimigrated to America, and spent most
of their years in Madison county, where they died.
Patrick Shay was a young man when he came to America, and
spent the first five years of his residence in Boston, Massachusetts, the
old "Bay State." From there he moved to Rush county, Indiana, and
in 1853 came to Madison county, where he settled on a farm. He
lived quietly but industriously, and gained for himself a place in com-
munity affairs.
The children in his family were named as follows : Thomas ; Michael ;
John; Kenneth; Matthew; Mrs. Mary White; Mrs. Emma Smith; and
Julia and Andrew, deceased. The sons Thomas and Michael with
their mother, Bridget (Scanlan) Shay, now manage the home farm of
one hundred and forty acres on the Windfall Pike, about five and one-
half miles northwest of Elwood and also eighteen acres lying east of the
homestead. The sons are prosperous farmers and stockmen, and are
worthy successors of their honored father. The father during his life-
time built the comfortable residence in which the family now live, and
the Shay place is regarded as one of the best improved farms in Duck
Creek township. The family worship in Elwood at St. Joseph's church,
and all are active members of that congregation.
Richard A. McClure. Madison county is noted for its fine farm-
steads, many of which have been under cultivation since pioneer days.
In Duck Creek township, about four miles northeast of Elwood, is
located one of the most attractive and valuable, the home place of
Richard A. McClure. Its chief industry is cattle raising, and Mr.
McClure aims to develop a high grade of stock and to mpke his place
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 623
profitable from every point of view. The farm contains two hundred
acres, is worth considerably more than one hundred dollars an acre, and
its fields give evidence of a high state of improvement. Like many
other prosperous men of the present time Mr. ]\lcClure began without
any capital to speak of, and in less than twenty-five years had accumu-
lated a fijie estate entirely through his own initiative and industry.
Richard A. McClure was born February 20, 1857, in Brookville,
Indiana, a son of James and Anna (McCaw) McClure. His father
was born in County Sligo, Ireland, and came to America with his
parents, James and Katherine McClure, who moved to Indiana, and
located at Brookville, where they became farmers and stock raisers.
James McClure followed farming as his regular occupation, and he and
his wife were the parents of nine children, namely : John F. ; Katherine,
deceased; Richard A.; Eliza J.; James Coburn, deceased; Margaret
A. ; Henry F. ; Scott, deceased ; and one that died in infancy.
Richard A. McClure as a boy attended the country schools near
Brookville, Indiana, and finished his education in the Brookville high
school. He learned the lessons of thrift and industry at an early age
and remained on the home farm, contributing his labors to the family
until he was thirty years old. In 1887 he came to Madison county,
where he began his independent career, as a tenant. As a tenant he
farmed the very estate which he now occupies as owner, receiving a
part by inheritance and paj-ing for the remainder from the proceeds
of his hardy toil and successful management. At this writing Mr.
ilcClure has just finished one of the most attractive rural residences
to be found anywhere in iladison county. The house contains four-
teen rooms and is built on modern lines, and with the facilities and
conveniences which make country life attractive, and in comparison
place a residence in the city at a low discount. The McClure home-
stead stands off the road, about twenty yards, and with its attractive
surroundings of trees and outbuildings, easily ranks as one of the
finest places in the county. All the out buildings are also new, and
since coming to this place Mr. McClure has increased its value by many
thousand dollars.
On February 7, 1894, Mr. McClure married Martha E. Stoker. Their
two children are Edna A., and Howard S., both attending school. Fra-
ternally Mr. McClure is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, he and his family worehip in the Christian church, and in
politics he is a Republican.
Michael Meter. One of the attractive and valuable farms of Duck
Creek township, located on the township lines between Boone and Duck
Creek townships, is the ]\Iichael Meyer place. Its proprietor, ^Mr. Meyer,
bought the land a number of years ago when it was almost entirely
a landscape of trees and stumps. He went in debt to acquire posses-
sion of this first property and toiled both early and late in order to
make his regular payment and finally to reach independence. Since
early life he has been accustomed to hard work, has learned the lessons
of successful agriculture, and has made his farm a homestead which
measures well up to the best standards of Madison county rural homes.
His farm has been largely shaped out by his own labors and plans, and
represents both a comfortable home and a gratifying success. He raises
most of the crops familiar to Madison county, and makes a specialty
of live stock.
624 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Michael Meyer was born June 5, 1858, in Franklin county, Indiana,
a son of Martin and Maggie (Fierston) Meyer. Both the parents were
natives of Grermany, where they were married and then came to America,
first locating in Cincinnati, Ohio. The father had a career in which
hard work and progressive industry finally brought him to a comfortable
prosperity. In Cincinnati he worked at any honorable occupation which
he could find and finally moved to Franklin county, Indiana, where he
began as a farmer, later he raised truck, and was a huckster for some
twenty years. After that he lived a retired life enjoying the fruits of
many well spent years. His last days were spent in Elwood, where he
died at the age of eighty-two years. The children in his family are
mentioned as follows : Barbara, deceased ; Kate ; Joseph, deceased ;
Michael ; Mary ; Lizzie, deceased, and Margaret.
Michael Meyer was reared on a farm, assisted his father in growing
the vegetable and fruit crop which were their specialty on the home
place, and in the intervals of this occupation he attended the common
schools. When ready to be^in life on his own account, he rented a
small farm in Franklin county, and was afterwards employed at monthly
wages for four years. Finally his capital reached a point where he
possessed a couple of cows and two horses. He then borrowed four
hundred dollars and coming to Madison county rented a portion of
the old Roberts farm for seven years. During this time he was grad-
ually getting ahead in the world, and finally was able to purchase the
land, which comprises his present place. Most of that land was in
timber, and he had already contracted to clear off the woods and sell
the timber before concluding his purchase of the land. With the pro-
ceeds of his timber he made his first payment, and from that time to
the present has steadily prospered until he is now owner of the one hun-
dred and sixty acres comprising the original farm. Since then he has
also added one hundred and twenty acres and is now owner of two hun-
dred and eighty acres in Madison county. His success has been most
honorably won and he deserves to stand in the front ranks of Madison
county farmers.
In March, 1878, Mr. Meyer married Miss Mary Senefeld. They
have become the parents of ten children, namely : Joseph, who is
married and has two children, Sylvanus and Marie ; Marj-, who married
Martin Goans and has five children named Blanch, Cecil, Mervel, Wil-
liam, and Helen; William M., at home; George, August, Carrie, Anna,
Michael, Jr., Tillie, and Claire.
Mr. Meyer is aiBliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
at Rigdon, Indiana, and the family are cnureh members and take an
active part in the Catholic church at Elwood, Indiana, and in benevo-
lent affairs. In politics he is a Democrat. As a farmer he devotes
much of his time and has made a great success in the raising of Hamp-
shire hogs and Belgian horses. His stock raising is really his diversion,
as well as his vocation, and he finds both profit and pleasure in man-
aging the farm estate, which he has won as a result of his own hard
work and intelligent management.
Ward K. Can.\day. Bom in the township of his present residence
and on the farm which he now occupies and cultivates. Ward Canaday
is one of the progressive young agriculturists of Madison county, and
at an early age has established himself solidly in the industrious and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 625
business enterprise of tlu' country, and is a man of influence in his
community.
Mr. Ward K. Canaday was born on July 20, 1886, on the farm of
eighty acres, located on the south Douglas road, about three and a half
miles southeast of Elwood. On this same place was born his father, the
late Nathan Canaday. Nathan Canaday, who was one of Madison
county's prominent farmers, until his death a few years ago, married
Anna Connor, and their two children are Jessie and Ward. Nathan
Canaday was first married to Elizabeth Ferguson, and the two chil-
dren by that marriage were Vernon and Rowena, the latter the wife of
Otis Heck and the mother of one child, Maurice.
Ward Canaday was reared on the home farm, and as a boy attended
the Canada}' school in this vicinity. That school having taken its name
from the family and representing the local prominence of the family
in this vicinity. After leaving the common school he finished his edu-
cation at Elwood. and then for about six terms was engaged in teaching
in this county. He then turned his energies to farming, and on the
death of his father took the management of the home estate. On
August 14, 1907, he married Miss Dovie Waymire, daughter of David
and Cynthia (Ring) Waymire. Her father David Waymire came from
Wayne county, Indiana, and was a .son of John S. Waymire, who was
the founder of that family in Madison county. David Waymire spent
his active career as a farmer, and was the father of four children, whose
names follow : John E., who married Carrie Jones and had one son
named Harland ; Ernest, who married Lottie Bagley, and their chil-
dren are Okla and Arnold : Maud, the wife of Ed. Adair, and the mother
of Lowell and Russell, and Mrs. Canaday. Mr. and Mrs. Canaday are
the parents of two children. Helena and Loral. The family worship in
the Christian church, and Mr. Canaday is in politics a Democrat.
Joseph R. C.^^naday. Madison county has many fine farms and
they are owned to a large extent by members of old families of this
section, in a number of cases the land having been acquired by heritage.
A wide stretch of 457 acres of fertile soil in one body lying about two
miles from Anderson, is owned by Joseph R. Canaday and his father,
Harrison Canaday. The latter also owns 400 acres in Lafayette township.
Jose|)h R. Canaday, although now retired from active life, continues
to he one of the influential citizens of his community and a man whose
good management, natural ability and persevering industry have placed
him in the front rank of this section's substantial residents. Mr. Canaday
has resided in this section since his sixth year, and during his long resi-
dence here has formed a wide acquaintance in agricultural circles, fairly
earning the regard and esteem in which he is universally held. He was
born August 24, 1859, between Richmond and Milton, in Wayne county,
Indiana, and is a son of Harrison and Elizabeth (Howard) Canaday.
A review of his father's life appears on another page of this work.
Joseph R. Canaday accompanied his parents to Madison county in
1865. and his boyhood home was a small frame house situated not far
from Anderson, although in later years the family acquired a more
commodious and comfortable residence. As a lad he attended the old
Dillon schoolhouse, and later supplemented this by attendance at the
school at College Corners, and in the meantime, like other farmers' sons
of his day and locality, spent the spring, summer and fall months in the
work of the homestead. He was thoroughly trained in all matters con-
626 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
sidered necessary for the successful agriculturist to know, proved an
industriouj workman and apt scholar, and when twenty-one years of
age his father rewarded his persevering efforts by giving him charge of
the homestead, where he embarked upon a career of his own. He is now
the only representative of the family here, his one sister, Mrs. Greorge
Quick, being at present a resident of Indianapolis. Mr. Cauaday has
been successful in his general farming and stock raising operations, hav-
ing brought his property to a high state of cultivation and always find-
ing a ready market and top-notch prices for his cattle. He has been a
firm believer in the use of modern machinerj' and methods, combining
the practicality and sturdy industry of former years with the use of
improved equipment and scientific treatment of this time, with exceed-
ingly satisfactory results. His career has been one of steady advance-
ment, marked by the strictest integrity, and as a reliable man of affairs
his reputation is firmly established among his neighbors and business
associates.
Mr. Canaday was first married to Miss Lavina Coburn, daughter
of Amos and Elizabeth (Stover) Coburn, and to this union there were
born two children : Cora, who married Richard Powell, and is a resi-
dent of Anderson ; and Lovina, who married Claude Roney, and has one
son, — Joseph. Mr. Canaday 's second marriage occurred October 3,
1895, when he was united with Miss Dora Belle Cooper, daughter of
Isaac and Mary E. (Hoel) Cooper, early settlers of Madison county, and
well known agriculturists of Adams township. There were seven chil-
dren in the Cooper family : Harry, who is deceased ; Dora Belle, who
married Mr. Canaday ; Cora, now Mrs. Walker ; Fannie, who married
Mr. Fattick; Walter; Ruby, now Mrs. Mitchell; and Frank. Mr. and
Mrs. Canaday have one son: George Harrison, a bright and interest-
ing lad who is attending the public schools of Anderson.
In addition to his farming operations, Mr. Canaday has been inter-
ested in breeding Shetland ponies and has built up a large trade in this
line. He has taken an active interest in political matters, although
not as an aspirant for public honors. With his family, he attends the
Christian church, and at all times has given his support to its move-
ments.
Edward Osborn. A member of the present Indiana legislature from
Madison county, ^Ir. Edward Osborn represents the progressive farm-
ing element and the substantial rural citizenship of his section of Indiana.
He is himself a practical and successful farmer, has a large acquaintance
and is very popular in his home county, and by experience and native
ability is well fitted to represent the interest of his constituency in the
legislature.
Edward Osborn makes his home on 80 acres of fine land on the range
line road in Pipe Creek township. He was bom in Franklin county,
Indiana, May 6, 1859, a son of Thomas and Mary (Claypool) Osborn.
Both parents are deceased and buried at Elwood, and the family has long
been prominently known in this state. Mr. Osborn 's grandfather, Redin
Osborn was a pioneer of this state and one of the early members of the
legislature. Mr. Osborn 's father was a California forty-niner, and came
back home with a greater degree of wealth won on the gold coast than
most of the adventurers who went out from this state during those days.
Thomas Osborn, the father, was born at Brookville, Indiana, and with
the exception of his California experience devoted practically all his
HISTORY OF IVIADISON COUNTY • 627
life to blacksmithiiig. There were three childreu in the family, and the
other two are Charles Osborn at Elwood, and Jlrs. Cora Brier.
Edward Osborn as a boy was reared in his native county, where he
attended the common schools, and he also attended Old Smithson College
in Cass county. On leaving school he skilled himself in the blacksmith
trade, and worked at that for some years during his youth. When about
twenty-four years old he took up farming as his regular vocation, and
by application of energy and good management has made a creditable
record in this line. On May 31, 1884, he married Miss Emma Greenlee,
daughter of John and Angelina (Bartlow) Greenlee. Her father was
originally from Pennsylvania, and first settled in Franklin county,
Indiana, where Mr. Osborn was born. Mrs. Osborn was one in a family
of eight children, the others being Leora, Clara, Cassius M., MolUe,
Flora, Mattie, and Ida. Mrs. Osborn is a Methodist.
Fraternally Mr. Osborn is a ilason, a member of the Blue Lodge and
Chapter at Elwood, Indiana. One daughter was born to the marriage
of Mr. and Jlrs. Osborn — Bessie, who wedded Clarence Legg, and they
reside in Madison county. The pretty estate of Mr. and Mrs. Osborn is
one of the beautiful homes in Pipe Creek township, and they are citizens
who take much pleasure in the entertainment of their many friends. Mr.
Osborn is a popular man amongst his colleagues in the halls of legisla-
ture, and reflects credit on his home county of Madison.
C. R. Wright, M. D. For more than twenty years an active physi-
cian of Madison county, possessing the ability and skill which bring suc-
cess in this profession, Dr. Wright has a splendid practice at Frank-
ton and vicinity and is known among hundreds of families throughout
this community, as both a kindly and able doctor and a friend and good
counsellor. Dr. Wright began his career without wealth or influence,
earned his way through medical college, and since beginning practice
has enjoyed all the features of success.
C. R. Wright was born Novemlier 18, 1862. in Burlington, Iowa,
where his parents William T. and Ellen (Sumpter) Wright were resi-
dents for a few years. The father was a prosperous farmer, a native of
Fayette county, Indiana, and spent about two years in the west, after
which he returned to Union county, and then came to Madison
county, locating in Jackson township. He owed a valuable farm, and
was recognized as a substantial and honorable citizen in all his relations
with the community. There were three children in the family, Dr. C.
R., Flora, and James H. Wright. Dr. Wright attended the common
schools, and then attained a certificate and taught school in the districts
of Jackson and Monroe township of Madison county, and by this means
he had earned enough money to see him through school, and took a pre-
paratory course in the Central Normal College at Danville, and then
entered the Indianapolis Medical school, where he was graduated M. D.
in 1888. The first year of his practice was at Windfall, Indiana, in
Tipton county, where he attended his first regular patient. The follow-
ing year was spent at Linwood, and from there he moved to Frankton,
and established an office which he has maintained now for more than
twenty years.
Dr. Wright was married in February, 1891, to Miss Anna Morning-
star, whose father was a farmer originally from Morgan county. The
two children of the doctor and wife are Mary and Julius. The family
belong to the Presbyterian church, and take a very prominent part in
628 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
aU church affairs. The doctor is affiliated with the Blue Lodge of
Masonery, and is connected with various medical organizations. Mrs.
Wright passed away in January, 1906, and is buried in Maplewood
cemetery near Anderson.
Thomas J. King. One of the successful farmers and a citizen always
held in high esteem was the late Thomas J. King, who died at his home
in Pipe Creek township, March 10, 1912. The late Mr. King was a
man of thorough industry, knew how to apply his energies to the com-
plicated tasks of farming, with the best results, and in all his relations
he stood honorably toward his community.
The late Thomas J. King was born in a log cabin on the home farm
which he occupied at the time of his death, on January 30, 1858. He
was a son of Washington and Elizabeth' (Howard) King. The Howard
family came to Indiana from North Carolina. Washington King, the
father, was a son of William King, who came to Indiana from the state
of Ohio. The parents had the following children: William, Joseph,
Rinda, Catherine, Barry, and Frank, (who were twins), Thomas J.,
Margaret, Jonathan, Daniel, and Ozro.
Born in the old log house which before the war was the home of the
King family in Pipe Creek township, Thomas J. King grew up in this
locality, and for his education attended what was known as the King
school house. His attendance at school was alternated with work on
the farm, and he was a farmer all his life. On the day he was married
he moved his residence to a portion of the old homestead farm, renting
land, and thus beginning his career.
Mr. King married ]\Iarch 8, 1883, Miss Eliza J. Johnson, a daughter
of Penn and Eliza (Wilboru) Johnson. The father came from North
Carolina, and for many years was a farmer near Elwood. The seven
children in the Johnson family included Mrs. Kin^, the oldest; Wil-
liam, Lewis, Harley, Rindy, Catherine and Eliza. The four children
born to Mr. and Mrs. King are mentioned as follows : Rose, who wedded
W. R. Johnson, is the mother of four children, Hessel, Russell, Lucia
and Helen, the last named being deceased; Floy, who is single and
livQS at home ; Willard ; and Arthur, who is a school boy. The son,
Willard, manages the home farm of one hundred and twenty-three
acres, and has his home in a house located a short distance below that
of his mother. He rents the place and is a very progressive and indus-
trious agriculturist. Willard King wedded Miss Flossie Little April
5, 1913. She comes from one of the good families of Madison county
and received a good education, both in the public and high school. The
King family is one which commands the respect and esteem of all who
have the pleasure of their friend.ship. Their home is in a pretty cot-
tage and is the abode of hospitality. The late Mr. King was affiliated
wdth the Masonic Order and the Knights of Pythias, and the family
all worship in the Methodist church.
James W. Carlton. The owner of eighty acres of fine land on what
is known as the East Coon Valley Road, and on rural route No. 33 out
of Elwood, James W. Carlton is one of the prosperous and progressive
farmers of Pipe Creek township, and has spent practically all his life
in Madison county.
He was born on a farm in this county September 14, 1862, a son of
Robert and Lavonia (Atwell) Carlton, he being the only child of the
HISTORY OF ALA.DISON COUNTY 629
parents. He received his educatiou in the Coon Valley school, and
from early boyhood worked on a farm and learned its duties.
Mr. Carlton has been twice married, tirst to Miss Dora Etchisou,
daughter of Richard and Amanda (Carter) Etchisop and to this mar-
riage were born two cliildren — j\Iayne and Mayme L. Mr. Carlton's
second marriage was to Mrs. Alice (Cunningham) Jeffries, a daughter
of Samuel and Dorcas E. (Nance) Cunningham.' By her first mar-
riage to Mr. Jeffries, there was born a daughter, Levada, and she is liv-
ing in Pipe Creek township. Mrs. Carlton's father was a native of
North Carolina and was one of the prosperous agriculturists of Monroe
township. They also had one son, by name Andrew J., the brother of
Mrs. Carlton. Mr. (Jarlton is a member of the United Brethren church,
but his father was in sympathy with the Christian church. Politically
he is a Progressive Republican and in a fraternal sense is an honored
member of the Knights of Pythias, and the ^Modern Woodmen of America,
and Mrs. Carlton was a Pythian Sister. She is an affable lady and is
an able factor in making her home one of the pleasant and peaceful
abodes. Mr. and Mrs. Carlton have the good will and esteem of the
people of Pipe Creek township.
Abr.viiam it. Procter. Among the successful Madison county farm-
ers of the present day, probably none has won his prosperity by more
thorough reliance upon his individual efforts and by a more complete
process of industry, self-denial, and thrifty management than Abraham
R. Procter. Mr. Procter is now regarded as one of the most substantial
stock men and farmers in the northern part of the county and is owner
of one hundred and sixty acres of good land in Pipe Creek and Duck
Creek townships.
Mr. Procter was born April 3, 1863, in Franklin county, Indiana,
a son of John and Elizabeth (Shockley) Procter. The paternal grand-
father came to Indiana from New Jersey, locating in Franklin county,
where John Procter was born. The children of John Procter and wife
numbered eight, the following four being now living: India, Thomas,
Harvey and Abraham R.
Mr. Procter enjoyed his early schooling in Franklin county and
was a worker on the home farm all the time he attended school. When
he started out on his own account it was as a renter, and on a very
small scale at that, but with every year since his beginning his resources
have increased, and he can say that every dollar he owns was made by
his honest efforts. Mr. Procter moved to Madison county on March 4,
1896, and rented a portion of his present farm. He later bought a
part of the land, and has gradually increased it until he is now the
owner of one hundred and sixty acres and has placed practically all
the modern improvements upon the estate.
On February 9, 1888, Mr. Procter married Miss Anna Dare of
Franklin county, and a daughter of James and Ruthana (DuBois)
Dare. The four children born to their marriage are as follows: Roscoe,
now bookkeeper for the Washburn-Crosby Company at Cleveland,
Ohio; Blanch, the w^ife of Ed McCord; Harry and Elzie, both at home.
Mr. Procter is independent in politics, and he and his family are attend-
ants of the Methodist church.
Wilfred Sellers, secretary, treasurer and manager of the kitchen
cabinet manufacturing company of G. I. Sellers & Sons, at Thirteenth
630 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and North Carolina streets, Elwood, belongs to that type of successful
business men who have risen to the top through hard work and con-
scientious application to the duties given them to perform. The ability
to rise, meet and master situations spells success, and thus IMr. Sellers
has steadily fought his way to the front rank, overcoming obstacles by
the sheer force of his own resource and capacity. He is a native of the
Hoosier State, and was born at Kokomo, May 10, 1884, a son of George
I. and Rebecca (Kellar) Sellers.
Alfred P. Sellers, the paternal grandfather of Wilfred Sellers, was
a carpenter by trade and an early settler of Howard county, being the
builder of the barracks at Kokomo. There he passed away atlvanced
in years, as did also his wife, who had borne the maiden name of Mary
Cole. They were the parents of the following children: Lewis, John,
William, George Ira, Alice, Flora, Cora, Elizabeth and Mattie. Mr.
Sellers' maternal grandfather was William H. Kellar, a native of
Kentucky and an early settler of Howard county, Indiana, where he
conducted a sawmill and was' also engaged in farming. He died at the
age of sixtj^-tive years, while his wife, who had been formerly Miss
Garr, of Kentucky, survived him a long time and passed to her final
rest when eighty -six years old. They had children as follows: Mary,
Lewis, Hite, Edward, Kate, Charles, and Rebecca.
George Ira Sellers was born in Howard county, Indiana, and there
received his education, following which he learned the trade of car-
penter with his father. He later turned his attention to specializing
in stair-building, and while thus engaged formed the idea of manu-
facturing kitchen cabinets. This business he started in a small way
at Kokomo, in 1888, and the excellence of the product soon gained it
a wide sale, the working force of the plant growing rapidly from
twenty-five to one hundred and thirty skilled mechanics. In 1905 the
Kokomo plant was destroyed by fire, and in December of that year Mr.
Sellers came to Elwood and purchased the plant of the Elwood Furni-
ture Company, which he remodeled to suit his own business, and here
he continued to be actively engaged until his death, September 19, 1909,
when his widow succeeded him as president of the concern. A business
man of the old school, who believed that strict honesty and integrity
were the surest mediums through which to attain success, and proved
it, Mr. Sellers had the fullest confidence and respect of his business
associates. He was possessed of a mind fertile in resources, means and
expedients, and was never at a loss for a course to pursue. The Chris-
tian Church knew him as a liberal supporter, his adopted town as a
public-spirited citizen, his acquaintances as a loyal friend, and his
family as a kind husband and indulgent father, while the business
world* lost in his death one who had been steadfast in maintaining high
principles. He and his wife, who was also born in Howard county,
Indiana, were the parents of six children, as follows: Ellena G., who
is the widow of James Parsons, of Elwood; Ida B., who is the wife of
Harry Hale, of Fairfield, Indiana; Wilfred; Mary E., who is the
wife of Henry Striker, of Elwood; Charles E., residing at Fort Wayne,
Indiana ; and George L., of Kokomo.
On completing his studies in the public schools of Kokomo, Wilfred
Sellers entered his father's factory, thoroughly learning every detail of
the extensive business, from the bottom rung of the ladder to the top.
When the Elwood business was founded, he was admitted to partner-
ship with his father, and became secretary, treasurer and manager of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 631
the firm, positions he has continued to occupy to the present time. He
has inherited much of his father's mechanical genius and business
ability, and is known as one of the leading business men of the younger
generation here, having sho\ra himself eminently capable to haiidle the
large interests of the manufacturing plant. In addition, he is the
inventor of an ant-proof castor and is now acting in the capacity of
manager of the Sanitary Castor Company, at Elwood. These have met
with a large sale, while the famous Sellers kitchen cabinets have estab-
lished a market in almost every large city in the United States and
Canada.
On October 21, 1909, Mr. Sellers was married to Miss Marjorie F.
i^hoemaker. daughter of William and Mary E. (Young) Shoemaker,
and to this union there has been born one daughter : Mary Rebecca.
Mrs. Sellers is a member of the Presbyterian churcli, and is popular in
religious and social circles of Elwood. Mr. Sellers is a Democrat in
political matters, but has not sought public oflfice. His fraternal con-
nections are with Quincy Lodge No. 230, F. & A. M., the Elks and the
Knights of Pythias, in all of which he has numerous friends.
Alex.^nder Wise. A large farm of four hundred acres partly in
Lafayette and partly in Pipe Creek township represents the business
enterprise of Alexander Wise, one of the oldest native citizens of Madi-
son county, and one who has spent practically a lifetime of efforts in
the cultivation of the soil. As a farmer he has won material prosper-
ity, and at the same time has lived with honor in all his relations with
his community and fellow citizens.
Alexander Wise was born August 2, 1838, in i\[adison county, and
was a son of John and Harriet (McClintock) Wise. His father, John
Wise, was originally from the .state of Vii-ginia, and was only a boy
himself when he accompanied his father, Martin Wise, grandfather of
Alexander, to the middle West. John Wise grew up and took up the
occupation of farmer, accjuired a large estate, and finally passed away,
enjoying the respect and esteem of a large circle of friends. The chil-
dren in his family are mentioned as follows : Martin, deceased ; Mary,
deceased; Elizabeth, deceased; Alexander, Jennie, William, Samantha,
wife of Noah Rine, and Margaret, wife of George Schuyler.
Alexander Wise as a boy attended the public schools in Perkins-
ville, and throughout the period of his school attendance he was also
engaged in the experiences and duties of the home farm. In 1859, on the
24th of November, he married Hannah ^Sloore, a daughter of
John Moore. The eight children of Mr. Wise and wife are: William
H., who is married and has two children; Jennie, wife of Joseph Love;
Sarah, who is the wife of J. Swain, and has three children ; Rose, wife
of Albert Wilburn, and the mother of three children ; Grace ; Myrtle,
who is married and has four children ; John, who is married and has
three children ; and Martin, who is married and has three children.
Mr. Wise is one of the old members of the Methodist church in Pipe
Creek township. On his farm he is engaged in the raising of stock, and
has built up an estate which is an honor and credit to his township.
Mr. Wise is one of Indiana's grand old men and he has a double
record — a record as an honest, and successful citizen and a soldier's
record. He enlisted in the 142nd I. V. I. and served his county as a
soldier under the grand old general, "Pap" Thomas, whom the "boys
in blue" would follow into the jaws of death. His term of service lasted
Vol. 11— 18
632 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
niue months, wheu he received his honorable discharge and returned
to his home, to again don the civilian's garb. ilr. Wise is quoted in his
locality, among his many friends as one of the "Prince of the Pioneers"
of old Madison county.
Walter R. Webking has been connected with the Nicliolsou File
Company for the past twenty years and during this time has worked
his way steadily up from the position of shipping clerk to that of
office manager of this progressive Anderson concern. Such a record is
ample evidence of his steady perseverance and close application to the
details of the business, and his able management of this line of the
business stamps him as one of the alert and energetic business men of
the city. Mr. Werlyng is a native son of Madison county, having been
born in the village of Pendleton, March 13, 1873, the only living son of
James H. and Elizabeth K. (Jackson) Werking.
James H. Werking was born in 1842, in Indiana, and was reared
and educated in this state. At the outbreak of the Civil war he
answered his couutry's call for volunteers by enlisting in Company I,
Thirty-sixth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served faith-
fully and valiantly with that organization during four years and six
months, receiving his honorable discharge with an excellent record. At
the close of his military career, he entered business life at Pendleton,
and subsequently came to Anderson, and is still a resident of this city,
although he is now living a retired life. Mr. Werking married Miss
Elizabeth K. Jackson, who was born near Chillicothe, Ohio, and she
died in 1901.
Walter R. Werking was a small lad when brought to Anderson by
his parents, and his education was secured in the public and high
schools of this city. On graduating from the latter he secured employ-
ment with the Nicholson File Company, in 1893, in the capacity of
shipping clerk, and has continued to remain with this company to the
present time, repeated promotions having advanced him to the posi-
tion of office manager. He is thoroughly familiar with every detail of
the business, and his good judgment, sagacity and executive ability
have done much to extend the trade of his firm.
On October 10, 1900, Mr. Werking was united in marriage with
Miss Dinnie E. Palmer, of Anderson, a daughter of Clarkson Palmer,
an old and highly esteemed resident of this city. Mr. and Mrs. Werk-
ing have one child. They have a neat modern residence at No. 1826
Meridian street. Mr. Werking is a prominent Mason, belonging to
Fellowship Lodge, No. 65, F. & A. M., to Anderson Royal Arch Chap-
ter, to Anderson Commandery, and to Murat Temple of the Mystic
Shrine, Indianapolis, and is also a Scottish Rite Mason. He is also
well known to the members of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows,
holding membership in Anderson Lodge, No. 131, and Star Encamp-
ment, No. 84. During his long residence in Anderson he has ever
shown himself willing to co-operate with earnest public-spirited citizens
in forwarding movements for the benefit of the city and its people,
although his participation in politics has been confined to that of any
good citizen interested in his community's growth and development.
He has a wide acquaintance among business men and many warm
friends throughout the city.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 633
Fred T. Barber. It is to a large degree to the self-made men of
Madison county that this section owes its present prosperity; to those
men who, starting life without financial assistance or influential friends,
have worked their own way to the front, placing themselves by the
sheer force of their energy and perseverance among the successful men
of their communities. Aji example of self-made manhood is found in
the career of Fred T. Barber, president and general manager of the
Barber Manufacturing Company, at Anderson. Embarking upon his
struggle with life when a lad of sixteen years, he has steadily fought
his way upward, overcoming such obstacles as have presented them-
selves, always with a well-detined course in view, until today he is
recognized as one of the substantial and influential business men of his
adopted city and a force to be reckoned with in matters of a commercial
nature. While he has been busily engrossed with the duties pertaining
to the management of a rapidly-growing enterprise, Mr. Barber has
found time also to discharge the responsibilities which every large com-
munity places upon its influential men, and in positions of public trust
lias ably and conscientiously served his fellow-citizens, thus materially
advancing the public welfare.
Fred T. Barber was born upon a farm in Hunterdon county, ^ew
Jersey, October 1, 1859, and is a son of George H. and Jane (VanCamp)
Barber. His father died when Fred T. was but eighteen months of
age, but the mother managed to keep her family together and to give
her children good common school advantages. Fred T. Barber spent a
part of his boyhood in working on the farm, in the meantime attending
the public schools, and when sixteen years of age found employment as
a clerk in a general store located on the banks of the Delaware I'iver.
There he continued four years, thus earning the means whereby he
could pursue a supplementary course in the Capitol City Commercial
College, Trenton, New Jersey, and so thoroughly did he master the
details of the curriculum that after two years he was employed as a
teacher in that institution. Following this, he re-entered business life
as an employe of a wholesale grocery concern at Trenton, where he
remained four years, and resigned to take a position with the Trenton
Spring Mattress Co., as manager in their New York office, and from
there was transferred to Chicago to take charge of their branch factoJ-y
located there, where he gained experience that proved of great value
to him in later years. In 1894 Mr. Barber made his advent in Ander-
son, where he became the organizer and promoter of a concern known
as the Barber Manufacturing Company, which was incorporated under
the same name during the following year, with Mr. Barber as presi-
dent and general manager. This company manufactures bed, daven-
port, chair and carriage springs, and all kinds of springs used in seats
of any kind. The output of the faetorj- is shipped to all points in the
United States, and meets with a large sale in Australia, under special
order. Mr. Barber has been the directing head of this large enter-
prise since its inception, and his management of its affairs places him
in an acknowledged position among his adopted city's most able busi-
ness men. He has so directed its policies that the concern has the high-
est commercial standing, while his own known integrity has added to its
prestige.
In 1895 Mr. Barber was married to Miss Ida Wilson, of Trenton,
New Jersey, a daughter of Capt. John A. Wilson, who has been a Dela-
ware river captain for the past thirty-six years. One son has been born
634 HISTORY OF MADISON COUJSITY
to this union : Wilson, a student of the Anderson High school, aged
sixteen years. Mr. Barber has ever shown a commendable interest in
all matters pertaining to the welfare of Anderson, and has not hesi-
tated to perform the duties of citizenship. At different times a mem-
ber of the Democratic Central Committee, he has been active in the suc-
cess of his party in this city, and is now representing the Second Ward
in the city council, of which tx)dy he is president, and is a member
of the board of public works. His influence has always been on the
side of progress and improvement, and his services to his city have
been untiring. Fraternally, he is connected with Anderson Lodge, No.
209, B. P. 0. E., of which he is exalted ruler.
Chester H. Anderson. One of the young citizens of Madison
county who are exponents of the modem science of farming, and who
have applied business methods and science to their industry is Chester
H. Anderson of Fall Creek township. He is a young man of less than
thirty years, but in his ability and in the quality of his work ranks
among the leaders of agriculture and live stock producers in his section
of the county. Chester H. Anderson was born on a farm in Fall Creek
towflship on November 25, 1885, and is a son of A. C. and Caroline J.
(Heacock) Anderson. There were two children in the family; his
sister SteUa is the wife of E. D. Allen, a resident of Pendleton. Mr.
Anderson spent his boyhood on a farm, and graduated first from the
district schools, and then from the Pendleton High School with the
class of 1904, being then eighteen years of age. He became a student
at Purdue University, where he was in the Agricultural Department,
and thus well equipped, returned to his home county to begin his
practical career as a farmer. On December 19, 1906, he married Lulu
B. Clark, who was bom in Pendleton, October 20, 1886, a daughter of
Albert and Mary (McKee) Clark, who received her education in the
common schools, being a graduate from the high school in the same
class with Mr. Anderson. After their marriage he moved to a farm
one mile west of Pendleton and with the aid of his thrifty and ambitious
young wife he began his practical career. Two children have been born
to their marriage, Mary E., on May 4, 1910, and Paul C, on July 22,
1913. Mr. Anderson is a member of the Friends church, while his wife
belongs to the Methodist denomination. He is affiliated with Pendleton
Lodge, No. 88, 1. 0. 0. F., and in politics is an Independent. Mr. Ander-
son in his farming operations makes a specialty of Registered Duroc Jer-
sey hogs and Jersey cattle and raises them for the market and also for
breeding purposes. He also has some Percheron horses. He uses good
judgment in all his work, and has made profit where many farmers
have succeeded only in making a living. Mr. Anderson is one of the
young energetic farmers of Madison county whose impress will be left
behind him in the agricultural world.
Edwin Lukens. Beginning his career as a farmer, Edwin Lukens
spent ten years as a prosperous street contractor in Anderson, from
which he eventually reverted to the farm and has since continued in
the successful operation of one of the attractive places in Anderson
township. His place today shows the care and cultivation of a man
who understands the business of farming in its every detail, and is
undeniably one of the fine farm spots of the community. Three genera-
tions of Lukenses have farmed in Madison county, the first of the family
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 635
to establish his home hereabout beiug WiLiiam Lukens, the father of
Benjamin Lukens and the grandfather of Edwin Lukens. The name is
thus in uo wise an unfamiliar one to the old residents of the county,
and is one that has long been honored and esteemed among the best
citizenship of the district.
Edwin Lukens was born on October 15, 1864, on the old Shaul
farm near the town of Pendleton, and he is the son of Benjamin and
Susan (Haines) Lukens. The father was a native son of Madison
county and was here reared and passed his life. Edwin Lukens was
his first born child, the others being as follows : William A., a resident
of Fall Creek township; Mrs. Mattie Darlington, and Benjamin N.
Lukens, of Indianapolis.
As a boy in his home community Edwin Lukens attended the dis-
trict school in Stony Creek township, as well as the Boot Jack school,
80 called because of its unfortunate location in a swamp of so exceed-
ingly hungry a nature that when the boys plunged into it upon what-
ever pretext the suction was great enough to pull their boots from their
feet in their efforts to disentangle themselves. School conditions there
were in common with those existing in other parts of the country in the
early years following the war, and it may readily be understood that
his education was not of the highest order. However, Mr. Lukens as
a boy was well versed in the matter of farm work, and was continu-
ously employed upon the home farm until he reached the age of twenty-
one, when he. established himself upon a forty acre tract in Fall Creek
township. He spent three years there, and in 1892 came to Anderson
where he became interested in the business of street contracting,
cement work at that time just beginning to come into use. For ten
years he continued successfully, but at the end of that time he decided
to return to the farm. He accordingly bought his present place, con-
sisting of one hundred acres of fertile soil on the Muncie road, about
one mile distant from the limits of Anderson. Here Mr. Lukens has
occupied himself with farming, and his place has reached a high degree
of productiveness with the passing years. The place is one that is well
kept up, with suitable buildings of every kind, and a first class silo
attests the progressive ideas of the proprietor at the same time. A
practical farmer in the main, Mr. Lukens is one who is ever willing to
embrace a new idea in farming, when the same is supported by rea-
sonable arguments, and he is deeply interested in the Farmers' Institute.
As a stock man, he is one who is quoted widely in Madison county, and
his success in that branch is worthy of commendation.
On February 23, 1886, Mr. Lukens married Mary Rogers, the daugh-
ter of Levi and Emily (Dobson) Rogers. Levi Rogers, it may be said
at this, point, was a native of Chester county, Pennsylvania, and was
a farnler and carpenter. After he settled in Pendleton, Indieina, he
devoted himself for the most part to the building business, and there
ended his days. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, —
Mary, the wife of Mr. Lukens; Fannie Boorman and Edwin, who is
deceased.
Mr. and Mrs. Lukens became the parents of four children. Alice,
the first born, married Frank Rodecap ; Myron, the second, is unmar-
ried; Herman married Eva Ray; and Hortense married Ellsworth
Rodecap.
The family were at one time members of the Frjends church, but
636 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
have in later years been identified with the Christian church, iu whose
activities they have borne praiseworthy parts.
Washington B. Knopp. It is the proviace of biography to treat
with those busy toilers in the affairs of life who form the true strength
of communities and of nations, for it is the men who are successful and
enterprising in agriculture and commerce that bring advancement and
prosperity to their country. A large proportion of this class of men
appreciate the value of their success the more in that it has been gained
by their own efforts. In Madison county are found many citizens who
have been the architects of their own fortunes, but it is doubtful if
there can be discovered many instances where this has been so strikingly
true as in the career of Washington B. Knopp, who is now the owner
of a valuable tract of 162 acres on the Wesley Chapel Road, about eight
miles from Anderson in Richland township. A brief review of his
career will show that he has at all times been industrious and perse-
vering, and that true success may be gained without the initial advan-
tages of wealth or influential friends.
Washington B. Knopp was bom in 1862, in Roan county, West
Virginia, a son of Jesse and May J. (WibUn) Knopp. He was but a
child when his father brought the family to Madison county, and here
the elder man continued to carry on operations near PerkiusviUe, on a
valuable farm, during the remainder of his career. He had a family
of thirteen children, of whom eight are still living, as follows : Victoria,
Josie, Matilda, William, Washington, '^^deon, Jesse, and Charles. Wash-
ington B. Knopp secured his educati<- in the district schools of Madi-
son county, and durrtig his entire school period assisted his father in
the work of the home farm, as he did also after completing his studies.
On attaining manhood, he started to work on neighboring farms for a
salary of fifteen dollars per month, but after about six months entered
a grocery store as clerk, a position which he filled but a short time. He
also had some experience in railroad work, but eventually returned to
the occupation of his forefathers, the tilling of the soil, satisfied that in
that line lay his best opportunity for success. During all this time he
had thriftily saved his earnings, and in 1885, with some money bor-
rowed from his father, he bought a tract of eighty acres of land in Boone
township. This property was in poor condition, but Mr. Knopp
improved it in various ways, put it in a good state of cultivation, and
eventually traded it for the property formerly ovraed by James Fork-
ner. Here he has added to his property from time to time, until he at
present is the owner of one of the best properties in the township, boast-
ing of modern improvements of every kind and buildings of handsome
architectual design and substantial character. In one piece he has put
in 1,540 rods of tiling, in itself a task of no mean size, and his fine new
two-story home is a credit to his industry and to tne community in
which he lives. His general farming and stock raising operations have
been successful, but that has been no more than was expected, for
he has labored faithfully and assiduously and his labors have been
intelligently directed. Among his neighbors and business associates,
he is known as a man who is to be relied upon in business matters, who
is loyal as a friend, and who is at all times ready to assist his fellow-
citizens in movements tending to advance his community. It is such
men that form the bone and sinew of a township or a state and who
are representative of the best type of American agriculturist.
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 637
Oil August 26, 1886, Mr. Kiiopp was married to Miss Angeline
Dyson, daughter of Richard and Martha (Gaither) Dyson, natives of
North Carolina, the former of whom is deceased, while the latter makes
her home with her daughter and son-in-law. Mr. and Mrs. Knopp have
had eight children : Estella, who married Orliffe Hunt, and has two
children, — Lester and Otis ; Frank, educated in Richland and Boone
townships, and now manager of the home farm, who married Rose
Hirschel and has one son, — Marvin ; John, who is deeesised ; and Walter,
Mattie, William, Edna and Ruth, all of whom reside at home with their
parents. The family attends the Church of God.
OuvER Broadbent, M. D. In the death of Dr. Oliver Broadbent,
which occurred at his home, six and one-half miles northeast of the
city of Anderson, Indiana, June 8, 1910, the Anderson township medi-
cal fraternity lost one of its pioneer members, a man who for forty-
five years had been a worthy representative of all that was best in his
noble calling. His was a life full of usefulness to his fellow-men, a
career which covered more than four decades of administering to the
ills of mankind, and although his labors have ceased the memory of
his deeds remains, for numerous residents of his former scene of endeavor
have ample reason to keep him in grateful remembrance. Dr. Broad-
bent was born in Union county, Indiana, July 23, 1841, a son of Robert
and Lucy (Preston) Broadbent. His father came to the United States
from England as a boy and was for years engaged in the woolen mill
business. There were seven children in the family : Robert, Stephen,
Elizabeth, John, Cyrus, Charles and Oliver, all now being deceased. Of
these Stephen Broadbent was the operator of a wool factory at Broad-
bent's ford about a quarter of a century ago.
Oliver Broadbent received his early education in the common schools,
and early manifested a desire to enter the medical profession. As a
means to this end he became an employe in his father's woolen mill,
and after carefully saving his earnings for several years was able to
enter Miami University, at Oxford, where he was duly graduated. Fol-
lowing this he studied medicine for some time at Cincinnati, and then
entered upon the practice of his profession at Marion, Indiana, later
removing to Chesterfield, where for some years he was engaged in prac-
tice in partnership with Dr. Dunham. About the year 1865, Doctor
Broadbent located in Richland township, and in connection with his
medical practice commenced farming, adding to his land from time to
time until he had accumulated two hundred acres of valuable property
and developed one of the finest country homes in this section.
Doctor Broadbent was married to Miss Sarah I. Nelson, daughter of
I. and Leah (Wigner) Nelson, prominent people of Madison county,
and to this union there were born seven children : Clara, who is deceased,
also one who died in infancy ; Hattie, who married Will Vermillion ;
Merta, who became the wife of Homer Eshelman; Effie, who is the
wife of John Walters; Mary, who married Gideon Johns; and Chester,
who married Miss Whelchel, and resides on his farm in Richland town-
ship. Mrs. Broadbent survives her husband and resides on the home-
stead, on Anderson Rural Route No. 1.
Doctor Broadbent was a Republican in his political views, but his
interest therein was only that taken by every good citizen. With his
family, he attended the Methodist Episcopal church, while his fraternal
connections were limited to the organizations of his profession, in the
638 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
work of which he took an active and intelligent interest. Until stricken
by the illness that eventually brought about his death, Doctor Broad-
bent was ever ready to answer the call of suiferiug mankind. No hour
was too late or too early ; no weather was too inclement ; all thought of
self or personal interests was at once thrust aside when his services
were needed. Doubtless the strain incurred by this abandon of self
hastened his final sickness. As a business man he was as successful as
in his profession. He evidenced his versatility by becoming as pros-
perous in agriculture as in medicine, while as a citizen none had the
welfare of the community more thoroughly at heart. He left to his
children not only material wealth, but the priceless heritage of an hon-
orable and honored name.
The following extract is copied from an Anderson newspaper issued
the day following his death:. "Dr. Oliver Broadbent, one of the pioneer
physicians of this county, and a resident of Kichland township for the
past forty-five years, died yesterday afternoon at two o'clock at his
home, six and one-half miles northeast of this city. Death was due to
heart disease, from which he has been a sufferer for the past four or
five years. He was sitting in his chair yesterday when he received a
severe and final attack. He was found in the chair in a sort of stupor
by Mrs. Broadbent some minutes later, the wife having just returned
from a trip to this city. Dr. Lee Hunt was summoned but before he had
arrived Dr. Broadbent had breathed his last. He had been practically
bedfast for the past year but his death came as a surprise to his family
and relatives. The funeral- will be held Monday at ten o'clock, with
services in the Bethany church. Burial will occur in the Nelson
cemetery. ' '
George Hartzell. Madison county is largely agricultural, but its
thriving towns, its numerous manufactories, its schools and churches,
prove that a vigorous life underlies any activity, although here, as else-
where, dependence is necessarily placed upon the products of the land
and the labors of those who develop it. No matter how men may toil or
how much they may achieve in any direction, they must all be fed, and
it is the farmer, in the background, who turns the wheels, who sails the
seas, who fights the battles, and who provides for the survival typified
in "the passing of the torch." Happily, there are in Madison county
contented owners of land who intelligently and willingly carry on the
peaceful pursuits of agriculture and, although they do not seek such a
term of approbation, are, nevertheless, benefactors of mankind. They
are often men of wide information on many subjects, usually are men
qualified for offices of public service, for the proper cultivation of the
soil and a realization of its utmost yield, require knowledge on many
subjects. It is in this class of public-spirited and intelligent citizens
that is found George Hartzell, of Anderson township, the owner of a
finely-cultivated tract of sixty acres located on the Main street road,
about two miles from the city of Anderson, and a resident of Madison
county for upwards of sixty years. Mr. Hartzell was born in Mont-
gomery county, Ohio, in 1846, and is the oldest of the children of Joseph
and' Harriet (Wertz) Hartzell.
Joseph Hartzell was born, reared, educated and married in Ohio,
and there followed farming until 1852, in which year he brought his
family to Madison county, locating in Anderson township, near the
city, where he passed the remaining years of his active career in the pur-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 639
suits of agriculture. George Hartzell was a child of but six years when
he aceonipauied his parents to Anderson township, and here he received
his education in the district schools during the winter terms, which were
usually about three months in duration, and with the commencement of
spring again took up his duties on the home farm, which he continued
until the following winter. Thus he passed his whole school period, and
on completing his studies he took up the work of an agriculturist, which
he has followed to the present time, with the exception of twelve years
when he was engaged in conducting a tile factory. He now has a finely
cultivated property, with excellent buildings and modern improvements
of all kinds, and his farm shows what honest, persistent effort can
accomplish, for it is due to his own industiy and good management
that his operations have met with such success.
In 1871 Mr. Hartzell was united in marriage with Miss Sarah E.
Brown, and to this union there have been born four children, namely :
Laura, Joseph, Carrie, who married a Mr. Huetzinger, and Sarah, who
became the wife of !Mr. Jarrett. Mr. Hartzell 's second marriage
occurred IMarch 12, 1881, when he was united with Miss Eliza A. Perkins,
and they have two sons: Hurston and Howard. Mr. Hartzell is a
Democrat in Ins political views, although he has never cared for public
office. He has taken some interest in fraternal work, and at this time
is a popular member of the Improved Order of Red Men, the Knights
of the Golden Eagle, the Wise Guys and the Haymakers. With the
members of his family, he attends the Methodist Episcopal Church at
Anderson, the movements of which he has liberally supported.
John Luther Hancock. Another of the well-to-do retired farm-
ers of Madison county whose accomplishments justly entitle them to
mention in this historical and biographical work is John Luther Han-
cock, now residing on an eleven acre tract near the citj' of Anderson.
Here he built him a tine seven room house, suited in every detail to the
demands of his family, and he is passing his remaining years caring for
his property interests and enjoying the fruits of his years of toil. Suc-
cess attended Mr. Hancock in his efforts, and lie today owns a number of
farms in Madison county, all of which combine to yield him a suffi-
cient income and place him among the ranks of the independent farm-
ing men of the county.
Born in Delaware count}', on December 3, 1854, John Luther Han-
cock is the son of Joseph T. and Hester (Fountain) Hancock. The
father was born in Wayne county, Indiana, in 1831, and as a young
man taught .school in Deleware county, in the schools of Mount Pleasant
township. He was the son of John Hancock, who came from Virginia.
He was the father of six children, of whom more complete mention is
made in the sketch of W. W. Hancock, to be found on other pages of
this work.
The boyhood days of John Luther Hancock were passed much in
common with those of the other youth of that period. He attended the
Delaware county schools and diversified his school work with a diligent
training upon the farm, received at the hands of his industrious father.
W^'hen he was twenty years old Mr. Hancock came tn Madison county
and settled in Richland township on the old Hancock farm, as it was
long called. Two years later, or in 1876, he married Mary E. Lawler,
and soon after rented a farm from his father-in-law, where he settled
down and began to apply himself with all consistency to the acquiring
640 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
of a place of his own aud a position among the more prominent men of
the community. So well did he succeed that today he owns a number
of productive farms and h^s been able to retire from the industry him-
self and live comfortably and quietly upon the labors of former years.
Before he retired be had reached a place of no inconsiderable promi-
nence in agricultural circles of the county, and was known for the
success of his farming ventures and the extent of his operations. -
His marriage to Mary Lawler occurred on December 7, 1876. She
was born on August 28, 1859, in Richland township on the old James
Lawler place, and is the daughter of James and Lydia (Chambers)
Lawler. James Lawler was a native Virginian and came to Indiana
when a boy, in company with his parents, James and Nancy (Curtis)
Lawler. It was the father of Mrs. Hancock who established the Lawler
family in Madison county, aud she was one of his four children.
To Mr. and Mrs. Hancock have come five children. Ida, the eldest,
is the wife of D. Luce, and they have two children, — Lawson B., and
Crystal M. ; Alta, married William Bronnenberg, and is the mother of
two children, — Roy and Viva ; Cora is the wife of Arthur Short, and
their children are Thelma G. and Darrell E. ; Hazel married Emerson
Manger, and has two children, — Harold L. and Ralph; the fifth child
is Schuyler Hancock, who married Ethel Denny. All have come to
fill useful niches in their various spheres in life and reflect no little
honor upon the parents who launched them upon their various careers
of home-making and business.
Mr. Hancock, though not a man to interest himself beyond the
demands of good citizenship in the politics of his county, still bears
allegiance to the Republican party, and has given aid to its causes on
many occasions. He has done all one man could do in the interests of
the people whenever the rights and wishes of the people have been in
contest, and has borne full well his share in the burdens of civic responsi-
bility. He and his family have membership in the Christian church of
their community and are regular attendants and supporters of that
denomination.
Oliver P. Wideneb. A citizen and farmer of Fall Creek township
who began his career some twenty-five years ago without capital and
with only the strength of his hands to aid him in his struggle with life,
Mr. Widener has since become possessed of a fine farm, has reared a
family who are a credit to his name, and during all the years of his
residence in the community has been known as a man of honest and good
report.
Oliver P. Widener was born in Jackson township this county, Decem-
ber 4, 1864, a son of William and Amanda J. (Sisson) Widener. Both
parents are now deceased. The father and five brothers were soldiers
in the Civil war, and all in Indiana regiments. The family were among
the early settlers of Madison county, and the name has always been asso-
ciated in this section of the state with industry and integrity. The par-
ents had ten children, seven of whom are living in 1913, namely : Robei-t,
Charles, William, Oliver P., Sarah, wife of Sherman Stephenson : Amanda
J., wife of John Hoffman ; and Hattie, who is married and lives in Texas.
Oliver P. Widener was reared on a farm in Madison county and all
the education he attained was by attendance during the winter seasons
in the neighboring district schools. The summers were spent in the
labor of the homestead and when he was fourteen years of age his father
i.
HISTOEY OP MADISON COUNTY 641
died, leaving him as the chief support of the family. For this reason
he remained at home as practical manager of the farm until he was
about twenty-four years of age. He then on September 12, 1888, mar-
ried Sarali E. Graham, who was bom in Madison county, received her
education in the district schools and represents an old family name in
this section. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Widener located upon
a farm, and by dint of industry, thrifty management, finally acquired
their present handsome estate of one liundred and twenty acres in
Fall Creek township, this representing and being in the nature of a
monument to their career of persistent labor in this county.
Mr. and Mrs. Widener became the parents of five children, four of
whom are living in 1913 as follows: Ruby, who graduated from the
common schools and is now the wife of Robert McCleary of Anderson:
Dessie P., who also attended the common schools and is now the wife
of Harry Webb, of Hamilton county, this state ; Vernie, who is a farmer
and resides on the homestead with his parents ; Jennie, who is a student
in the district schools. j\Ir. Widener and his family worship in the
Methodist faith, and he is one of the trustees, a steward and also a dis-
trict steward of his church, being one of the most active workera for
the church and the Sunday school of this denomination. In politics he
is a Prohibitionist. On his farm he raises the general crops and con-
siderable stock, and everything about the place is indicative of good
management and thoroughness.
Alfred D. Hubst. In the recent death of Alfred Dickson Hurst,
which occurred at his home in Anderson on September 14, 1912, there
passed away a well known citizen, one who had been identified with
Madison county for thirty years, and within his career were embraced
important activities in education, manilfacturing, bankipg, politics,
religion, and civic affairs. At his home city of Anderson he was held in
universal esteem, and was for many years one of the most substantial
factors in business, a man who through energetic, straightforward busi-
ness methods gained a comfortable fortune. He had hosts of friends
all over the state of Indiana.
Though a great meed of praise must always be due to the pioneers
and first settlers for their efforts in behalf of progress and civilization,
at least equal if not greater honor is due the men whose enterprise,
genius and untiring industry during the latter years of the old century,
contributed so largely to the general advancement and development
of the county.- It was in this latter class that Alfred D. Hurst belonged.
He was born in Wayne county, Indiana, on a farm near Centerville,
April 8, 1856. His parents were William and Merab Foster Hurst,
both highly connected and greatly respected in the community in which
they lived. They were identified with agricultural pursuits and in
consequence Alfred's early boyhood was passed upon the farm and in
the performance of such labora as were common to boys similarly situ-
ated in life. During the fall and winter months, he attended the district
schools, and being ambitious to acquire an education applied himself
to his studies with such assuidity that he was not long in mastering the
elementary branches. Having an ambition to fit himself for the pro-
fession of teaching, he subsequently attended DePauw University, where
he took a classical course. He remained in that University four years,
during which time his standing as a student and orator and debater
642 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
was highly creditable alike to himself and the school. He was a mem-
ber of the Sigma Chi Fraternity.
After leaving University he was employed as a teacher in the public
schools at Brazil, Indiana, and afterwards in the capacity of superin-
tendent, the duties of which position he discharged with eminent satis-
faction to the school board and the patrons of the schools. His services
as an educator were sought in other cities and in 1884 he accepted a
proposition from the school board of Frankton in Madison county to
superintend the schools. For seven years he ably and faithfully looked
after the educational interests of Frankton, and it can be truthfully
said that no superintendent before or since came more nearly to satisfy-
ing the public expectations. His methods were approved, and his
efficiency was never questioned. Mr. Hurst left his profession about
the time that the development of the natural gas fields of eastern Indiana
wrought such a complete change in the industrial and economic situa-
tion in this section of the state. He was quick to see the possibilities for
manufacturing enterprise and he resigned his position to engage in
affairs that promised greater financial returns for his labor than the
profession of teaching. Through his efforts the Hoosier Fence Com-
pany was organized in 1892. No enterprise in the county perhaps has
been more successful than this, due largely to the industry and able
management of the late Mr. Hurst. He was also one of the principal
promoters of the Frankton Land Improvement Company, assisted in
organizing the Quick City Glass Company, and was connected finan-
cially, if not in the management with the Drisher Coil Company and
the Frankton Furniture Company. The late Mr. Hurst was a hard
worker, and it was liis constant and concentrated application to busi-
ness which brought about ill health and in 1901 obliged him to retire
from business a,ffairs. Relinquishing the active supervision and nian-
agement of the industries which have been mentioned, he purchased in
November, 1901, a large farm in Richland township, to which he removed
his family with the expectation of finding that rest and recreation so
essential to one in his condition of health. However, his residence there
continued only a few months, when he bought a home at 311 West
12th St., Anderson, and moved to that city. During his later years he
had relations with several enterprises in Anderson and elsewhere. He
was one of the organizers of the People's State Bank of Anderson, and
a director in the Sterling Fire Insurance Company of Indianapolis.
Besides looking after his various realty interests at Anderson, he took
a great deal of pleasure in supervising and improving the three farms
owned by him and located in iladison county. Agriculture was always
a great hobby with Mr. Hurst, and it was a constant pleasure for him
to be on his farms and so far as possible to look after the details of
their management. He enjoyed watching things grow, and was with
all a practical business man and made his land produce a generous
income.
The late Mr. Hurst was twice married. On December 24, 1880, at
Brazil, he married Miss Iva Bridges. Four children were born to that
marriage: Helen, Lucia, Joseph E., and Charles. Joseph is now de-
ceased; Mrs. Hurst died in 1888. As indicating the character of the
man and his solicitude for the welfare and usefulness of his children,
it may be stated that Mr. Hurst afforded his children e.ery possible
opportunity for acquiring a finished education. The daughter Helen
is now Mrs. Charles Preston of Monticello; Lucia is Mrs. Geo. Forrey
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 643
of Indianapolis. Mr. Hurst also had one grandson, Charles Preston Jr.,
of Monticello, Indiana.
On July 10, 1895, at Frankton, Mr. Hurst married Miss Jessie M.
Jackley. The one child now living of this union is Alfred D. Hurst, Jr.
Mr. Hurst was survived by four brothers and two sisters, namely:
William, now deceased; Oscar and Joseph Hurst of Centerville, in
Wajnie county ; Frank Hurst of Frankton ; Mrs. Robert Wilson of Col-
lege Corner, Ohio ; and Mrs. Florence Triplett, of Bloomington, Indiana.
In church affairs, the late Mr. Hurst was a devout member of the
First Methodist church of Anderson, having served as a member of its
official board for some time. Though a loyal Methodist, he believed in
the good of all religion, and for himself endeavored to practice the
golden rule.
His birthday was the date of the formal organization of the Repub-
lican party as a national party, and though he always had sound reason
for all his political actions, he was attached to the Republican interests
throughout his voting career, and one of the prominent Republicans of
Madison county. In 1892 he was a candidate for the office of state
representative on the Republican ticket, and during the campaign of
1910 served as chairman of the Republican county committee. In 1892
Madison county was safely Democratic, and he willingly sacrificed him-
self for the good of his party without expectation of election. During
his speaking tour about the county in that year, though his fellow citi-
zens were not aware that he had won the oratorical contest among the
teachers of the county in 1888, discovered the fact that he was not only
a logical reasoner but a graceful orator. He also had the satisfaction at
the close of the campaign of knowing that through his efforts the regular
majority of the opposition was largely reduced.
Honest, honorable and just, in the late Alfred Dickson Hurst were
combined all the elements that make for progress and good citizenship.
Always a patriot, he loved his country, was devoted to his home, and in
the love of Deity stood without fear or favor for every good work. A
mail of education, he was a patron of books, and had a splendid knowl-
edge of standard literature and a fine acquaintance with current history.
He had the practical idealism of the true Christion, loved flowers, music
and children, and was in his opinions and in his practical relations an
optimist. He was regarded as a genial companion and a true friend,
and measured by the actual results his life was more than ordinarily
successful. His integrity was never questioned, and he left a heritage of
a good name which his children and his children's children will always
cherish.
Andrew J. Whetsel. No more notable example of what may be
accomplished by energj', industry and perseverance could be found than
that exemplified in the career of Andrew J. Whetsel, one of the highly
esteemed farmers of Adams township. Handicapped in his youth by
the lack of even ordinary educational advantages, he embarked upon
his career without means or influential friends, and in spite of the
numerous obstacles which have sought to impede his progress has sturdily
and steadily forged his way to the top, until today he is the owner of a
fine property of 110 acres in section 18, and is recognized as a man
of substantial worth and influence in his community. Mr. Whetsel. was
bom on a farm near Mechanicsburg, Henry county, Indiana, May 31,
1865, and is a son of Noah and Marj- (Corbin) Whetsel.
644 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Noah Whetsel was born and reared in Rockingham countj', Vir-
ginia, and after his marriage came to Indiana, locating in Henry county,
Indiana. While a resident here, in 1864, he enlisted for service in the
Civil War, and on his return to the pursuits of peace moved to Madison
county, where he has since made his home. He and his wife, who is now
deceased, were the parents of twelve children — eight sons and two
daughters — and of these children ten are living at this time, namely:
Lewis, who resides in Madison county ; William H., a resident of Han-
cock county, Indiana ; Andrew J., of this review ; Charles, living at
Elwood, Indiana; Noah, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits near
Alexandria ; Israel and Nealey, who are engaged in farming southwest
of Anderson ; Emma, who became the wife of Samuel Case, of Anderson ;
Francina, who became the wife of George Ott, of Indianapolis; and
Lillian, who married Henry Thomas, a well-known contractor and builder
of Anderson.
Andrew J. Whetsel was an infant of one year when brought by his
parents to Madison county, and here he was reared to manhood. His
early studies were neglected, the greater part of his education being
secured in the school of hard work, but in later years this has been sup-
plemented by a great deal of reading, study and observation, and at this
time he is a better educated man than manj- who had much greater early
advantages. Mr. Whetsel embarked upon a career of his own when he
was but seventeen years of age, securing employment by the month on
farms in Madison county. He had early learned the value of a dollar
and carefully hoarded his savings, with the goal ever in view of one
day being the owner of a property of his own. It took ten years of the
hardest kind of vpork and the closest economy to realize this ambition,
but when he was once fairly settled upon his first small purchase of land,
he began to rise rapidly. He now has 110 acres of excellent land, all in
a high state of cultivation, which yields him generous crops for the
labor expended upon it. His buildings are substantial in character, his
live stock sleek and well fed, his machinery of the latest manufacture,
and the whole general appearance of the property testifies to its owner's
good management and thrift. Mr. Whetsel is a quiet, unassuming man,
yet wields some influence in his neighborhood, although his only con-
nection with public affairs has been his support of the prohibition move-
ment. He is known to be strictly honorable in his business dealings, and
as neighbor and friend is kind and generous. With his family, he holds
membership in the Union Missionary Baptist church.
On December 25, 1890, Mr. Whetsel was married to Miss Rettie A.
Maxwell, who was born in September, 1865, in Hancock county, Indiana,
daughter of Abel and Malissa (Rigger) Maxwell. Mrs. Whetsel's par-
ents died when she was fourteen years of age, but she managed to secure
a district school education and to support herself until her marriage.
She is a member of the Zion's Chapel, Methodist Episcopal church. Two
sons have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Whetsel: Delpha Lester, who was
born September 18, 1891, graduated from the common schools at the
age of fourteen years, and subsequently completed his schooling in the
Middletown High school, and is now assisting his father in the work of
the home place; and Hushel Raymon, who passed away at the age of
twenty-two months.
Lebot Davis, one of the energetic and progressive agriculturists of
Adams township, and the owner of a well-cultivated tract of land on
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 645
which he is engaged in general farming and stock raising, has been
a resident of this township all of his life and is well known to the
citizens of his coiimmnity. His entire life has been devoted to
the tilling of the soil, and his success has been accomplished through the
medium of his own efforts. Leroy Davis was bom on a farm in Adams
township, Madison county, Indiana, January 7, 1878, and is a son of
Elwood and Mary (Windall) Davis, also natives of Adams township.
John S. Davis, the paternal grandfather of Leroy Davis, was born
in the Carolinas, and was afterwards married to Nancy Scott, a
native of the Old North State. They migrated to Indiana at an early
date and settled first in Fall Creek township, but subsequently moved
to Adams township and there established the family home. In 1888
they retired from active life and removed to the city of Anderson,
where both passed away. Both Elwood Davis and his wife were born,
reared and educated in Adams township, in the same neighborhood,
and after their marriage settled down to farming on their own account,
being engaged therein until 1908, when they retired and moved to
Anderson, where they still make their home. Elwood Davis was very
successful in his operations, and at one time was the owner of 352 acres
of land, but since that time has divided a good deal of this property
among his children. He had various other interests, took a keen and
intelligent interest in the affairs of his community, and is highly
regarded by all who know him in country life, as he is in his new home.
To Mr. and Mrs. Davis there were born three children, as follows:
Leroy ; Harry, a graduate of the common schools of Adams township,
and now engaged in the wholesale butchering business at Anderson,
married Pearl Wilson ; and Carrie, who is the wife of John Hayes, a
resident of Adams township.
Leroy Davis was reared on the old homestead farm in Adams town-
ship, on which he worked for his father during the summer months,
in the me.intime acquiring his educational training in the district
schools during the winter term. When he had completed his schooling,
he turned his attention entirely to farming, and in this he has con-
tiiuied to be engaged to the present time. Mr. Davis has been success-
ful in his general farming ventures, using the most modern machinery
and methods, and his products find a ready market, his associates know-
ing him as a man of the highest integrity and business honor. He has
also had satisfactory results in his stock raising ventures, and keeps a
high grade of cattle and standard Duroc hogs. His land is under a
high state of cultivation, and has been made more valuable by the
erection of substantial buildings and other improvements, and altogether
compares favorably with any of its size in this section.
Mr. Davis was married January 24, 1900, in Anderson township,
to Miss Ethel Hoppes, who was born January 17, 1882, in Anderson
township, Madison county, Indiana, and educated in the public schools
there. To Mr. and Mrs. Davis there has come one son: Howard, who
was born February 12, 1903, and is now a student in the district
schools. Mrs. Davis is a member of the Church of God and has been
active in its work. Mr. Davis is essentially an agriculturist, and has
never cared for public life, but gives his support to Democratic prin-
ciples and candidates and supports also those movements which he
believes will make for good government and better citizenship. He is
widely known in Adams township, where the family has resided for
80 many years, and there are few- who have more friends.
645 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Robert H. Clark. A representative of an old and honored family
which on both the paternal and maternal sides has been identified with
the agricultural interests of IMadison county for three generations,
Robert H. Clark is one of the highly respected farmer-citizens of Adams
township. Although now somewhat retired from active pursuits, he
still maintains an interest in all that affects the welfare of his com-
munity where his entire life has been passed. Few men have a more
thorough knowledge of agricultural conditions in this section than has
Mr. Clark, for he was born on the farm which he now occupies, and from
earliest childhood has watched its growth and development, keeping
fully abreast of the changes and advancements that have made this one
of the flourishing regions of Madison county. He was born Septem-
ber 26, 1853, and is a son of Selbia and Sarah A. (Davis) Clark.
' The Clark family is of English origin, and was founded in America
by the great-grandfather of Robert H. Clark, who emigrated to this
country at an early day and located in North Carolina. From that
state liis son, Barney Clark, the grandfather of Robert H. Clark,
migrated to Madison county, Indiana, settled in Adams township, and
here spent the remainder of his life in clearing a farm and making
a home for his family. Selbia Clark was born in 1809, in Pasquotank
county, North Carolina, and some time after his marriage came to
Indiana, about a year before the arrival of his father. Like the elder
man, he devoted his energies to the tilling of the soil and succeeded in
establishing a home for his large family. He was married in Madison
county, Indiana, in 1829 or 1830, to Sarah A. Davis, who was born in
1812, in Pasquotank county, and whose parents were also early settlers
of Madison county, Indiana. This union resulted in the birth of four-
teen children, of whom seven are still living in 1913, Robert H. being the
youngest member of this family.
The education of Robert H. Clark was secured in the district
schools of Adams township, which he attended during the winter terms
until he was about twenty-one years of age. He continued to remain
under the parental roof and assist his father until his father's death
in February, 1879, at which time he rented the old homestead, and
this has continued to be his home. The mother, Sarah A. Clark, sur-
vived until the 18th of August, 1885. Robert H. Clark has a well-
cultivated tract of forty-seven and one-sixth acres, and his ventures in
farming have proved uniformly successful by reason of his good man-
agement and thorough knowledge of his vocation. In his political
views, Mr. Clark has been a Democrat, but at times has east his vote
with the Socialist party. He and Mrs. Clark are consistent members
of the Christian church.
On August 25, 1897, Mr. Clark was married to Mrs. Josephine
(Miller) Brown, who was born on a farm in Jackson township, Madison
county, Indiana, November 23, 1865, a daughter of Solomon Miller, who
came to this county in 1831 and is still living at the age of eighty -five
years. Mrs. Clark was married (first) to Francis Brown, of Adams
township, and they had one son : Omer Brown, a graduate of the com-
mon schools, who is now nineteen years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Clark
have had one daughter: Sarah A., born June 26, 1899, who is a student
in the public schools of Adams township.
Wa.LiAM Robert Winn. Elwood has for some years found in "Wil-
liam Robert Winn one of the popular men of the city in his capacity of
HISTOEY OF MADISON COUNTY 647
proprietor of the Kentucky Hotel, where he has been the ruling spirit
for a uuiiiber of j^ears past. His identity with the Ames Shovel and
Tool Works in an important position has continued for the last seven
years, as well, and altogether there are few men in the community bet-
ter known than he. He has been a resident of this city since 1901, and
with his family fills a leading place in the social and business interests
of the town.
Born in Boone county, Missouri, on the first day of August, 1865,
Mr. Winn is the son of Jonathan and Sarah Elizabeth (Schooling)
Winn, natives of Missouri, and he was one of their four children, the
others being as follows : Lucy, who married Robert Ballard and is
now deceased; Ida L., who died as the wife of W. P. Stice; WiUiam
Robert, of this brief review, and Charles G., a resident of Shreveport,
Louisiana.
Jonathan Winn was reared in Boone county, Missouri, where he
was born, and he was trained in the trade of a carpenter and cabinet
maker in the vicinity of Sturgeon, Missouri. His birth occurred in
1829, and he died in 1867, as a result of illness contracted during
his service in the Civil war, through which he served from beginning
to end as a soldier of the Confederacy. In addition to his business
as a carpenter and cabinet maker he was the owner of a farm in
Boone county, which he improved to a high state of cultivation, and
there he settled when he married and reared his family in the atmos-
phere of a rural home. He was the son of William Winn, a Ken-
tuckian by birth and training, and a planter of that state. He brought
his wife to Boone county, Missouri, in early life and there he died, after
rearing a fine family of ten children. He and his good wife were the
parents of sixteen children, but of that number only eleven reached
years of maturity. They were named Thomas, James, John, Sidney,
Jane, Cordelia, Jackson, Eliza, Melinda, Catherine and George. Both
parents reached a fine old age, but the father lived to be ninety-four
years old.
The woman who became the wife of Jonathan Winn and the mother
of the subject, was Sarah,, a daughter of William Robert and Eliza-
beth (Pollard) Schooling, natives of Boone county, Missouri. William
Robert Schooling was a physician and with his wife passed his life
in the county wherein they were born. They were the parents of three
children, Sarah Elizabeth," Robert and Clarissa, the first named becom-
ing the wife of Jonathan Winn.
Following the death of Jonathan Winn when he was but thirty-
eight years of age, his widow married A. G. Ballard, and they are liv-
ing today on a fniit farm near Marshall, in Saline county, Missouri.
To her second marriage seven children were born, six of whom are liv-
ing, and named as follows: Ada E., James, Edward, Mary, Kathleen,
and Grover, who died young. It may be mentioned here that Dr.
Schooling, the father of Mrs. Ballard, died in California, and that his
widow was three times wedded. No children came of her second union,
but of her marriage with Thomas Hulen, two sons were born, Oscar and
Walter L. Hulen. These brief facts concerning the parentage of Mr.
Winn are all that is available at this writing, and will suffice to estab-
lish the undeniable American ancestry of the subject.
The farm home of the Winn family in Boone county saw the rear-
ing of William Robert Winn during his first nine years of life, but the
premature death of his father, Jonathan Winn, in 1867, caused him
648 HISTORY OF AIADISON COUNTY
to be taken into the home of his grandfather, William Wiuu, and from
the age of nine until he reached young manhood he continued to make
that place his home. While yet in his teens he started to learn the
trade of a wagon-maker and he worked at it for three years, then went
back to the farm for something like eight years. He came to Elwood,
Indiana, in 1901, and soon after identified himself with the Tin Plate
Works, aad so continued for four years, after which he became asso-
ciated in a leading capacity with the Ames Shovel and Tool Works,
with which firm he has since continued. His connection with the Ken-
tucky Hotel as its proprietor has been in effect since November 23,
1911, when he turned his attention to that business, and he has proven
himself a capable and genial host, bringing to the Kentucky Hotel a
reputation for comfort and accommodation that it never before equaled.
On the 13th day of October, 1899, Mr. Winn was united in matri-
mony with Miss Mary Idella Greene, the daughter of Charles and Eliza
(Morris) Greene. Concerning Mrs. Winn, it may be said that she was
born in the vicinity of Lexington, Kentucky, on February i, 1871. Her
parents were natives of Kentucky and Missouri, the father claiming
Kentucky birth. He was a farmer, and when he was a lad of five
or six years accompanied his parents to Missouri, which was ever after-
ward his home. He was married in that state, but later in life returned
to Kentucky and died at Napoleon, that state, in 1900, when he was
sixty-two years old. His marriage to Eliza Sweeney took place on
December 17, 1866, and seven children were born to them, six of the
number reaching years of maturity. Thej' were named as follows : Wil-
liam L., Mary Idella, Beulah, Celia, Geneva and Frederick. Celia died
at the age of fourteen. Charles Greene was a soldier in the Confed-
erate army, and served in the conflict from the first day of the Rebel-
lion to the last. In those strenuous years of army life and hardship
he lost the sturdy vigor and strength that had characterized his younger
years, and was a semi-invalid the rest of his life. His widow still sur-
vives him, and in later years married Jonathan Gustin, their home
today being in Elwood. She was a daughter of James and Jane (Sims)
Sweeney, both Virginians by birth and ancestry. They became early
settlers in Kentucky, and the father, James Sweeney, was a soldier of
the Confederacy, like so many of the males of this family on both sides
of the house. They had two children, Sarah Elizabeth and Eliza.
The paternal grandfather of !Mary Idella (Greene) Winn, wife of the
subject, was Abraham Greene, and his wife was Jane (Calvert) Greene,
natives of Kentucky. Abraham Greene was a man of Irish ancestry,
and he was a wagon maker by trade. He gave valiant service in the
Mexican war, and died in New Mexico, his widow passing away earlier
than he, and dying in Missouri at the age of sixty-six years. They
had a fine family, among which may be mentioned George, Frank,
Abraham, William, Elizabeth, Frances and Andrew, who was killed in
action in the Civil war. Other of their children died young, and are
not mentioned here.
William Robert and Mary Idella (Greene) Winn became the parents
of four children, as follows: Clyde Clifton, born August 9, 1891 ; Lena
Belle, born May 22, 1894; Idella Maude, born April 10, 1903, and
another, who died in infancy.
Hon. Byeon H. Dyson, son of Sinclair and Eliza (Stover) Dyson,
was born in Anderson, February 6, 1849, and has the distinction of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 649
being one of the oldest native citizens of the city now living. Length
of residence has also been accompanied by value of attainment and
services to his community, and he has long ranked high in his pro-
fession as a lawyer, as a newspaper man, and public leader.
He was reared in the city of his nativitj- and attended the com-
mon schools until he was sixteen years old, when he entered a classi-
cal school at Augusta, Kentucky, where he remained for three years,
subsequently finishing his school days at the University of Kentucky.
On his return to his home he took up the study of law in the oflSee
of the late Hon. Winburn R. Pierse, former judge of the Madison
Circuit Court. Judge Pierse, recognizing the ability of his student,
retained him in his office at the end of his studies. Mr. Dyson had
hardly commenced on his career as an attorney, when he was, in 1876,
placed in nomination by the Democratic party as a candidate for
mayor of Anderson. He was elected by a handsome majority over
his opponent, an old and influential Republican. Mr. Dyson has the
honor of being the youngest man ever elected mayor of Anderson.
During his term as mayor he was strongly advocated by his friends
as a candidate for congressional honors, but owing to the candidacy
of a near friend he declined to have his name go before the conven-
tion. Mr. Dyson is a fluent speaker, a fine writer, and has often
been called upon the rostrum, where he has invariably proved an
aflfective orator, with a strong appeal both to the convictions and
the emotions of his audience. He has also been connected with the
local press for years, as well as a correspondent of the Metropolitan
papers. A thorough scholar it is said he has but few, if any superiors,
as a speller. Only few people of this county can boast of his attain-
ments. He was a co-laborer with the Honorable John L. Porkner in
the production of "Historical Sketches and Reminiscences of Madison
County" in 1897, a work which will remain a monument to his memory.
While the "Historical Sketches" perhaps contain many crudities, it
will lose nothing in comparison with similar work wherever published.
No history of Madison county can be truthfully written without con-
sulting its pages.
Mr. Dyson has two interesting children : Samuel S. Dyson, a
worthy young business man ; and Alice E., a bright and charming
young lady who inherits her father's intellectuality and who will no
doubt make herself useful in any sphere in which her lot may be east.
Mr. Dyson's political affiliations have always been with the Demo-
cratic party. He is a man who has always believed that citizenship
is a responsibility as well as a privilege, and his name and efforts
have frequently been associated with those more important movements
for community welfare. His administration of the affairs of the city
of Anderson as mayor was in every respect satisfactory, and he has
always done everv'thing within his power to promote the larger and
better city of Anderson.
W. E. C. Spade. With the largest and finest drug store in Alex-
andria at 202 North Harrison street, Mr. Spade is one of the old-time
merchants of this city and became identified with mercantile enter-
prises here before the era of natural gas. Along with success in busi-
ness he has combined an excellent public spirit which has caused him
to take an interest in ever>- movement for the welfare and development
of the community and he is the type of citizen who gives to his com-
munity as much or more than he takes away.
650 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
W. E. C. Spade was born in Jay county, Indiana, September 25,
1853. His grandfather was John Spade, who married Miss Elizabeth
Farber. He was a native of Germany and she of Indiana. When
a boy he came to America, first locating in Ohio and then in Indiana,
where he was an early settler of Jay county, and for many years a
substantial farmer. He and his wife both died when well along in
years. Their five children were named William, Daniel F., George,
Jacob, and Sarah, who married a Mr. Jordan. The maternal grand-
father was Jacob Miller, who was a Pennsylvanian by birth and an
early settler of Jay county, Indiana, where he died at a good old age.
The six children in the Miller family were Daniel, John, Jacob,
Margaret, Jane and Marj.
Daniel F. and Mary E. (Miller) Spade, the parents of the Alexan-
dria druggist were both bom in Ohio. The father was a carpenter and
a farmer, and spent many years of activity at and near Portland,
Indiana. He was also a minister of the Christian church and served
as pastor of churches in different cities. He died at the home of his
son in Alexandria, in 1909 at the age of eighty-one years. His wife
had passed away three years before at the age of seventy-five. Out of
their seven children, three reached maturity, the first being William
E. C. the second being Horace M., of Portland; and the third Jacob
M., of Portland.
Mr. Spade was reared on his father's farm in Jay county, where
he attended the district schools, was also a student at Liber College,
and later in the Union Christian College at Merom, Indiana. During
his early career he taught several terms of .school, and then in 1876
began his business career as clerk in Portland with the firm of Cart-
wright & Heddington in a general store. Some years later, he and his
employers formed a partnership, and established at Alexandria, the
Boston store. This pai'tnership continued until 1908 at which time
Mr. Spade sold his interests, and in the fall of that year bought his
present drug establishment which he has since conducted and made a
model store of its kind.
On May 5, 1880, Mr. Spade married Miss Sarah P. Brown, daughter _
of Clark and- Priscilla (Lorantz) Brown. Mrs. Spade was bom in"
Clinton county, Ohio, in 1855, her parents being natives of Ohio, and
spending their years chiefly in Clinton county. Her father died there
about 1864, and her mother is now living at the home of Mrs. Spade in
Alexandria. There were two children in the Brown family, Sarah F.,
being the first and Aurilla the second. Mr. and Mrs. Spade have an
adopted son Walter Bray Spade. Mr. Spade is affiliated with Alexan-
dria Lodge No. 222, I. 0. 0. F. and with Canton Lodge No. 53, and with
Encampment No. 212 of the higher degrees of Odd Fellowship. He
also belongs to the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks, being a
charter member of the Alexandria Lodge No. 478. . In politics he is a
Republican.
Robert Ewing Ball. Few residents of Boone township have per-
formed a more important and varied service to their community than
Robert Ewing Ball, who for thirty years was one of the successful
teachers in this vicinity, and throughout this time and at the present
has been also prosperously engaged in farming and stock raising. He
^^j(MiJty*<U^
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 651
owns a splendid estate oi one hundred and ninety acres on the R. E.
Ball gravel road, six miles west of Sumniitville.
Robert Ewing Ball was born April 1, 1858, in Boone township. His
parents were William and .Mary (MeCrory)' Ball. His father came to
Madison county from Fayette county, near Connersville, and settled ia
a cabin on the old Smith farm. He also took up government land, and
the patent to that land was signed by President Andrew Jackson. He
was. a young man when he came to Madison county, but was already
married, having found his wife in Fayette county. Their three chil-
dren were : Caroline Call ; Prudence Greenlee and Robert Ewing.
Mr. Ball as a boy grew up in Madison county, and for his education
attended the old Smith Chapel, and later attended school in the old
Harmony Baptist church. For his higher education and training for
teaching he attended the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio,
and also the University at Valparaiso, Indiana. He holds a record as a
teacher which is probably surpassed by few, if any, in this section of
the state, having been actively identified with school work for thirty
yeai-s. Two years of this time were spent in Sumniitville, two years
in Van Buren township, one year in ^lonroe towaiship, and then for
twenty-five years he directed a school in Boone township near his farm.
From practically the beginning of his educational career, he did farm-
ing in the summer months, and after acquiring a place of his own he
contrived to carry on his school work and his farm at the same time.
He has done very well as a farmer, and has made not only a profit-
able business, but has also improved his land making it an attractive and
comfortable place for his family to live on.
In 1881 in July, Mr. Ball married Miss Edith A. Runyan, a daugh-
ter of Ira and Emeline (Slinger) Runyan. The two children of their
marriage are Cecil W., a graduate of the University of Indiana, and
Irwin, who married Verne Spitsmessmer. Mr. Ball has filled all the
chairs and is a past noble grand in the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows, and is also afiiliated with the Knights of P.vthias, the Ma?onic
Order, the Modern Woodmen of America, and the Improved Order of
Red lien. He is a man of good judgment and stands high in the esteem
of his home community, and has been honored with places of trust and
responsibility. He has served as trustee of Boone township, and has
done much to improve education in this township.
Dale J. Crittenberger. A resident of Madison county, since Sep-
tember 1, 1878, Dale J. Crittenberger was at one time a school teacher
in this county, served as county superintendent of schools from 1883 to
1887, and since that time has been best known as a newspaper man and
publisher. Mr. Crittenberger is the editor of the Madison County
Weekly Democrat, and also a stockholder and editor of the Anderson
Daily Bulletin. He is one of the best known among Indiana's news-
paper men, and has long been prominent in the councils of the Demo-
cratic party in this state.
Dale J. Crittenberger was bom in Harrisonburg, Va., on December
31, 1855, of German ancestry. He was one of five children of Isaac
and Sarah (Kuhns) Crittenberger. His mother died in 1859, and the
death of his father occurred in 1904. Mr. Crittenberger had three sisters,
Esta, Lydia and Jennie, and one brother. Hensel. Of these the former
two are living. They are Mrs. Lydia Gillespie of Elwood and Mrs.
Esta Ringo of ]\Iiddletown.
652 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Together with his parents, Mr. Crittenberger left Virginia in 1856
and came to Jefferson township, Henry county, settling about five miles
east of Middletown. In the year 1874, Mr. Crittenberger entered Indiana
University, from which institution he became a graduate in 1878. He
received a degree of Bachelor of Arts for his work in the state institu-
tion. Upon completing his work at Indiana, Mr. Crittenberger came
to Anderson to make his home. On September 1, 1878, he passed the
bar examination and for five years practiced law with Charles L. Henry,
now of Indianapolis.
Prom 1883 to 1887, Mr. Crittenberger served as the county superin-
tendent of schools. At the close of his term of ofiice, he bought the
Anderson Democrat, then being printed with headquarters in the
Bronnenberg block. Since that time he has been actively engaged in
newspaper work with exception of a few years. After several years, in
1889, Mr. Crittenberger established the Daily News, a Democratic even-
ing paper. Starting in the following year, he acted as a trustee of the
Indiana State Normal at Terre Haute for two years. In 1893 he was
elected to the postmastership, and he served in that capacity for one
term. In the year 1904, Mr. Crittenberger went to Indianapolis where
he managed the Indianapolis Sentinel for a year. After returning to
this city, he spent several years with his newspaper, and on September
1, 1908, the Daily News was consolidated with the Anderson Bulletin
also an evening publication. During the 1911 session of the senate, Mr.
Crittenberger acted as secretary and spent a large portion of his time
in Indianapolis.
On June 2, 1884, Dale J. Crittenberger and Miss Efiie A. Daniels
were married. Mrs. Crittenberger was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
H. J. Daniels, then residing at 413 West Eighth street. By this union,
four children were born : Dale John, Juliet Virginia, Willis Dale and
George.
Mr. Crittenberger is aflSliated with Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 77 F. and
A. M., and Anderson Commandery No. 32, Knights Templar. He has
been a Mason for the last thirty years. While attending Indiana uni-
versity, he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, and at present is
a member of the Sigma Chi Alumni Association of Anderson.
Elbert E. Kidwell. The junior member of the firm of Campbell
& Kidwell, lawyers at Elwood, Mr. Kidwell represents the fourth gen-
eration of a family which has been residents in Madison county since the
earliest pioneer times, his great-grandfather having entered land from
the government and having begun and performed an important share in
the strenuous labors involved in the preparation of this country for
permanent civilization. This is the oldest or one of the very oldest
families in the northwestern portion of Madison county near the pres-
ent city of Elwood, where the residence of the different members of the
farailv have been for nearly eighty years.
Eibert E. Kidwell was born in Elwood, December 28, 1884, a son
of Ira A. and Anna (Lorah) Kidwell. The founder of the family name
and fortunes in Madison county, was the great-grandfather Starling G.
Kidwell, who was bom in Wayne county, Indiana, and came to Madi-
son county in 1835. Among the first settlers here took up land from
the government and the great plant of the American Sheet & Tin Plate
Company now occupies a portion of that old hornestead. He cleared
out a farm from the woods and swamp in this section, made a valuable
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 653
and profitable homestead and spent the rest of his life in this vicinity.
Representing the next generation was Jackson Kidwell, grandfather of
the Elwood lawyer. He married Mahala Quick. He was by occupation
a school teacher and farmer, and was reared on the place one mile south
of Elwood which has been mentioned as the home of his father. He
died there in middle life in 1861, while his wife passed away in 1860.
Their five children were named William F., Ira A., Margaret B., Louisa,
who was the wife of Thomas Reid and Jennie, who was the wife of Isaac
T. Boyden. The maternal grandparents of Mr. E. E. Kidwell were Andy
and Jane (Burns) Lorah, who were natives of Pennsylvania and early
settlers in Madison county, applying their industry to the making of a
farm on land that in the early day was a practical swamp. They drained
and cleai-ed a first class farm, reared their family there, and then moved
to Elwood, where they passed away, he in 1893 and she in 1910. Their
children were Anna, Ella and Grant.
Ira A. Kidwell, the father, was born in Madison county, while his
wife was a native of Brookville, Franklin county, this state. They
had only two children, Albert E. and Edna, twins. The father was
born and reared in the little communitj' center which at that time was
known as Quincy, but has since become the site of the flourishing city
of Elwood. For thirty-two years he was engaged in the milling busi-
ness, but has since retired, and now lives quietly in Elwood. For some
time he served as a member of the city council, and was also on the
board of public works. He is a member of the Christian church, while
his wife is a Methodist.
Elbert E. Kidwell was reared in Elwood. which has been his life-
long liome, attained his education in the public school, and after grad-
uating from the high school in the class of 1904 entered the law
department of the state university of Bloomiugton, where he was grad-
uated LL. B. in 1908. After his admission to the bar on November 26,
1906, he was more or less active in his profession at Elwood, and in
January, 1909, began his regular practice in this city. In August of
the same year, he became associated with Mr. B. H. Campbell, and
they have enjoyed a generous share of the legal business in this section.
On October 26, 1910, Mr. Kidwell married Miss Dorothy Armfield,
daughter of Dr. T. O. and Ella (Cook) Armfield. Mrs. Kidwell was
born in New Lancaster, her parents being natives of this state and now
residents in Elwood. She was the third of the following four chil-
dren : Iva ; Jesse T. ; Dorothy and Clarence. Mrs. Kidwell is an active
member of the Methodist church in Elwood. Fraternally Mr. Kidwell
is affiliated with the Quincy Lodge No. 230, A. F. & A. M., with the Loyal
Order of Moose, and belongs to the Phi Gamma Delta College fraternity.
In politics he is one of the young Progressives of this part of Madison
county, and during the campaign of 1912 was candidate of his party
for the office of state representative. His residence in Elwood is at
115 South Eighteenth street.
Ch-^bles Russell Quinn. One of the valuable farms of Madison
county which has been brought to a state of high cultivation through
modern methods and intelligent treatment is that occupied by Charles
R. Quinn. Mr. Quinn belongs to the younger generation of progress-
ive farmers, is thoroughly familiar with every detail of his vocation,
having been trained therein since early boyhood. He was born October
654 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
3, 1888, at Daleville, Delaware couuty, Indiana, and is a son of Alex-
andei" and Clara (Bronnenberg) Quinn.
The family was founded in the United States by Charles Quinn,
the grandfather of Charles R. Quinn, who emigrated to this country
from Ireland. He became a resident of Indiana at an early day, and
here reared his family of six children, who were as follows: Daniel,
James, Alexander, John, Mrs. Mai-y ]\Iighmiller, and Mrs. Ella Rector.
Alexander Quinn was born in Ireland, and was still an infant when
brought to this country by his parents. He was reared to agricultural
pursuits, which he has followed throughout life, and the. greater part
of his career has been spent in Indiana. For some years he was the
owner of a property in Delaware county, from which he subsequently
moved to the farm in Madison county, on which his son now resides,
and which he improved by the erection of a number of handsome struc-
tures, including the present dwelling. He and his wife were the parents
of three children : Earl and Marie, who are both deceased ; and Charles
Russell.
Charles R. Quinn received his education in the country schools of
Moonville, which he attended during the winter terms, his summer
months being spent in assisting his father with the work of the home-
stead. He was still a lad when he came to Madison county, and here
he has continued to follow the calling of a general farmer. He is also
much interested in blooded horses, a great admirer of racing stock, and
his future career will no doubt be directed along that line. He has
continued to add to the improvements of the ninety-acre homestead,
which is now considered one of the most valuable of its size in this
section of the country, and has become known as a good, practical
agriculturist, who is ever ready to test new methods and systems. In
business affairs, he is a man of keen discrimination and fine judgment
of energj' and perseverance, and the prosperity which has attended
his efforts is the merited reward of his own intelligent labor. His resi-
dence is pleasantly situated on Anderson Rural Free Delivery Route
No. 1.
On July 19, 1908, Mr. Quinn was united in marriage with Miss Lena
Click, who was born near Crawfordsville, Indiana, daughter of Isaac
and Teresa (Utterbock) Click, the former of whom is deceased. Mr.
Click was a native of Germany, from whence he emigrated to the
United States and settled near Crawfordsville, Indiana, but later came
to Madison county, and here spent his last years in farming. He and
his wife were the parents of eight children : Eugene, Edgar, Earl, Elmer,
Lottie, Lulu, Letha and Lena. Mr. and Mrs. Quinn have had one son,
Carl, a bright lad of three years. They attend the Christian church, in
the work of which they have been active, and have many friends in
the younger social circle of Anderson.
John L. Thomas. One of the most substantial and prosperous
farmers of Fall Creek township, likewise one of the men who enjoy the
most profound and sincere esteem and friendship of his fellow citizens
in the community is John Lewis Thomas. His entire life has been passed
in Madison county. The family was established here by his worthy
parents, and the name has been honored by his consistent and meritorious
career.
John Lewis Thomas was born on the 20th of November, 1837, a son
of Lewis W. and Priscilla Moore (Fussell) Thomas, the former being a
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 655
son of Jonathan and Axine (Lewis'^ Thomas. The ancestry of the family
is Welsh, and it is of record that three brothers of the name of Thomas
came from England on the good ship Welcome in company with the
immortal William Penn. The brothers located in eastern Pennsyl-
vania, and John L. Thomas is a direct lineal descendant of one of the
three brothers. Jonathan Thomas, the grandfather, and his \vife, Anne
Lewis, were reared in Chester county, Pennsylvania, and there they
married, coming to Madison county, Indiana, in 1834, among the early
settlers of the district known to-day as Spring Valley. This worthy
pioneer was the founder of the Fall Creek church of the Society of
Friends, and they held their first meeting in July, 1834, since which
time no Sunday has passed without witnessing its similar Quaker service.
Mr. Thomas located on the farm where Samuel Swain now lives, and
there he and his wife ended their days and lie buried. They were the
parents of three children : Rebecca, who became the wife of John J.
Lewis; Lewis W. Thomas, who married Priscilla Fussell ; and Mary A.,
who married Woolston Swain.
Lewis W. Thomas was about twenty-one years of age when he came
to ^ladison county with his parents, and he was married on February
23, 1837, to Priscilla Fussell, as mentioned above. They became the
parents of eleven children, of which goodly number six were living in
1913. They are named as follows: John L. Thomas, of this sketch;
Martha M., the wife of Aaron JMorris; Jonathan, who married Emma
Rogers; Mary, the \\ife of William R. Kinnard, of whom a sketch
appears elsewhere in this work; Solomon F., who married Carrie Lang;
and Alice, the wife of Edgar WTiitely.
John L. Thomas was reared on the farm which is now the property
of William R. Kinnard. When old enough to enter the public schools
he was sent to them in the summer months, but the winter seasons found
him at home, in close application to the work of the farm. Until he
was twenty years old he attended school intermittently and devoted him-
self to farm life exclusively from -then until he was twenty-five. His
education in the district schools, supplemented by his wide reading,
had made it possible for him to teach a country school, and for eleven
years he was engaged in that occupation during the winter months.
On September 18, 1862, he married Caroline Swain, a daughter of
Charles Swain, who came from Bucks county, Pennsylvania, to Madison
county in 1852. She was bom in Bucks county on the 15th of June,
1838, and was educated in the schools of Indiana principally. Of the
four children which came into their home three have been spared to
them, a little son, Lewis, having died in infancy. Emma is the wife of
Frank P. Miller, of Romney, West Virginia, a farmer. Charles S. is a
graduate of the University of Indiana, and was formerly a student at
Harvard. He now occupies the chair of English in a high school at
Ne^vtonville, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston. Lewis W., who was a
student in the public schools and the State University, now resides on
the home farm, which he operates for his father. He married :\Iargaret
Willits, a daughter of Samuel E. and Virginia (Wilson) Willits, both
now deceased. The father was a native of Wayne county, Indiana. One
child, Virginia, was born to ]Mr. and IMrs. Lewis Thomas on the 24th
of :\Iareh, 1913.
;\Ir. Thomas is a member of the Friends Church and sits at the head
of the church in this locality founded by his grandfather many years
ago. and he frequently preaches therein. In 1868, with others, he organ-
656 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ized the Sunday-school, and has ever since held the offices of teacher or
superintendent therein. He has the distinction of being the oldest
living member of the church born in this section. He is a pronounced
Republican in his political affiliations, and cast his first vote for Abraham
Lincoln in 1860. He has served in a number of the public offices of the
county, including that of trustee of Fall Creek township, in which he
served three years. He has also served as a member of the County Cen-
tral Committee, and has given valuable service to the cause of the party
in Madison county. He was the principal organizer of the Farmers
Mutual Fire & Lightning Insurance Company of Madison county, and
served as secretary and treasurer of that society for eleven years and as
a director for two years. He is also one of the original members of the
state organization bearing the same name, which he served two years
as treasurer, has been prominent in the work of the Farmers Institute
and is one of the most successful farmers of the county. He owns one
hundred and sixty acres of land in section 36, in an excellent state of
cultivation and maintained in the most painstaking and businesslike
manner.
Recently Mr. and Mrs. Thomas celebrated the fiftieth anniversary
of their marriage, known as the Golden Wedding Anniversary. Their
married life has been beautiful in its harmony, and each has won and
retained in a remarkable degree the confidence and esteem of many of
the most representative people of the township. They have added much
to the best interests and advancement of the community, and are
eminently deserving of the high place they now occupy in the public
mind.
Wabd L. Roach. Among the honored residents of Elwood, Indiana,
none are held in higher esteem than Ward L. Roach, who has lived
in this city for more than a quarter of a century, has occupied a high
place at the Madison county bar, and for more than twenty years has
served his fellow-citizens in the capacity of justice of the peace. A
veteran of the great Civil war, in both times of war and times of peace
he has ever displayed a characteristic devotion to whatever duty has
devolved upon him, fairly earning the respect and confidence of aU
who have known him. Judge Roach was born December 20, 1838, at
Huntsville, Madison county, Indiana, and is a son of Lanty and Louisa
(Brown) Roach, the former a native of Monroe county, and the latter
of Mason county, Virginia.
The paternal grandfather of Ward L. Roach was a native of the Old
Dominion State, where he was engaged in farming for many years,
and where both he and his wife, who was also a Virginian, died when
weU along in years. During the Revolutionary War, he enlisted in the
Continental army, and when the War of 1812 broke out, he again took
up arms in his country's defense. He became the father of a large
family, among whom were Katie, who became the wife of Andrew
McNear; Isaac; John; Thomas and Lanty. On the maternal side, the
grandfather of Ward L. Roach was Martin Brown, who married Susanna
McAllister, both being natives of Virginia. They were farming people,
and became pioneers of Madison county, Indiana, where both died in
advanced years, Mr. Brown on Fall Creek, about two miles east of
Huntsville, and his wife in Anderson. Like Grandfather Roach, Mr.
Brown served as an American soldier during the War of 1812. He and
his wife were the parents of a large family, as follows: Mary Ann,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 657
who became the wife of John Howard, and lived on Lick Creek ; Louisa,
the mother of Judge Roach; Susanna, who married a Nicholson; Har-
riet, who became the wife of a Veach; Emily, who married (first) a
Johnson and later a Lemon ; Lorenzo D. ; Elizabeth, who married a
Templin; and Garrett.
Lanty Roach, the father of Ward L. Roach, was reared in the state
of his nativity, there received a common school education, and in young
manhood learned the trade of carpenter. In the year 1835, looking for
a wider field for his activities, he turned his face toward the young West,
and made his way to Huntsville, Indiana, where he established him-
self in business in the little but growing town. He became a power
in his community, and during the early days served his county ably
as sheriff, but later moved from Huntsville to a tract of 160 acres
of government land, east of Elwood, and this he cleared and improved,
making a comfortable home for his family, and spending his declining
years in the comfort that came as a reward for his years of fruitful
labor. Born October 28, 1814, he passed away October 13, 1887, while
his wife, who was born February 8, 1818, passed to her final rest May
3, 1894. She was a member of the Methodist church. Mr. and Mrs.
Roach were the parents of five children, namely : Ward L., Mary S.
who became the wife of Josiah Canady, of near Frankton, Indiana
Martha, who is now deceased ; John M., who lives near Dundee, Indiana
Emily 0., who married and is living at Frankton, Indiana.
Ward L. Roach received his education in the public schools of
HuntsviUe, which he attended until he was twelve years of age, and at
that time went to Anderson, where for two years he was employed as
a clerk in a general store. Following this, he read law in the office
and under the preceptorship of Judge Lake, of Anderson, and was
admitted to the Indiana bar before he reached his majority. For two
years he served as assistant prosecuting attorney at Anderson, but
subsequently went to Barton county, Missouri, being engaged in prac-
tice there at Lamar, at the time of the outbreak of hostilities between
the North and the South. An ardent patriot, he returned to Indiana,
and for a few weeks resided on his father's farm from whence he
went to enlist in the Forty-first Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry,
for service in the Union army. Later he was transferred to the Second
Cavalry, with which organization he continued about two years, being
detailed from the regiment and appointed sergeant of the corps of
General Hazen. During his service, Mr. Roach participated in a num-
ber of the bloodiest battles of the great war, these including Shiloh and
Corinth, and when he received his honorable discharge, he had a rec-
ord for gallantry and faithful devotion to duty that was excelled by
no soldier in the army.
On the completion of his military career, Mr. Roach returned to
Anderson and again took up the practice of law. He remained there
until 1887, which year saw his advent in Elwood, and this place has
been his home to the present time. Here he has served more than
twenty years as justice of the peace, his fellow-citizens having the utmost
confidence in his judgment, his conscientiousness and his impartiality.
During the past twenty-two years he has resided on his farm of twenty-
one acres, on which he has a comfortable residence. In politics he .is
a Democrat, and his fraternal connection is with Quincy Lodge, No.
230, F. & A. M., he having been made a Mason at Frankton.
On October 2.5. 1866. Squire Roach was married to Miss Mary A.
658 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Waymire. Mr. Roach was married June 26, 1873, to Miss Martha West,
who was born near Williamsport, Indiana, daughter of John A. and
Azubah (Wilson) West of Illinois, the former a native of Georgia and
the latter of Ohio. Mrs. Roach 's parents had the following children :
George, Samuel, William, Thomas, .Moses, Betsey McClish, Charlotte
Romine, Salina West, iVnna and Martha. Judge and Mrs. Roach have
one daughter: Louisa A., born October 17, 1877, who is single and lives
at home with her parents.
Jacob Hartman. About seven miles northwest of the city of Ander-
son, in Lafayette township, is located the eighty-acre farm of Jacob
Hartman, whose work in developing this property into one of the
finest in this section stamps him as an able agriculturist and sturdy,
dependable citizen. He is a typical self-made man, having been given
but indifferent educational advantages in his youth, and attaining his
success through the medium of individual effort. Mr. Hartman was
born on the Hughes farm, subsequently known as the Hartman farm,
in Monroe township, Madison county, Indiana, and is a son of John
and Lucinda (Clevinger) Hartman. His father was a native of Penn-
sylvania, and as a young man learned the trade of pump-making, at
which he was employed during his younger years. A steady, .indus-
trious workman, he carefully saved his earnings until he was able to
purchase a small tract of land in Monroe township, and after develop-
ing this property traded it for a farm of eighty acres in Pipe Creek
township, northeast of Alexander. There he continued to follow agri-
cultural pursuits during the remainder of his life. He married Lucinda
Clevinger, whose family had come to Indiana from New Jersey, and
they became the parents of seven children : John ; Marj-, who married
Absolom Richwine ; William, who is deceased, was married and had
a son, Walter; Fred, who is deceased; Charles; Susan, who married
Mr. Penistou ; and Jacob.
Jacob Hartman was compelled to walk two and one-half miles to
reach the disti'ict school dviring his boyhood, and his education was
thus secured during three mouths each winter. The rest of the year
he passed in assisting in the work of the home farm from the time he
was large enough to grasp the plowhandles. However, he made the
most of his somewhat limited opportunities, and much reading and
close observation have made him a very well informed man, especially
upon the live issues of the day. He was reared to habits of industry
and economy, and continued to remain upon the home place until he
reached his thirty-second year, when he entered agricultural pursuits
upon his own account. His present property has been developed solely
by him, and he has fairly won the right to be named among his town-
ship's best agriculturists.
ilr. Hartman was married to Miss Sarah Graves, daughter of Joseph
and Lucy (Kendall) Graves, and five children were born to this union:
Joseph, Bessie, Elsie, Grace and Lela, the last two of whom are now
deceased. The comfortable Hartman home is located on Anderson
Rural Route, No. 6, and in this vicinity both Mr. and Mrs. Hartman
have numerous friends. They take an interest in the activities of their
community and are rearing their children to perpetuate the honorable
name which the family has ever borne. Mr. Hartman is a local poli-
tician and wields an influence in his locality as a Democratic worker.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 659
His advice aud support ai'e sought by all who aspire to office iu Madi-
son county.
ELiiER ScHLEGEL. It is probable that were the gentleman whose
name heads this review asked to define the secret of success in life, from
his own standpoint and experience, his reply would be that it is hard
work, availing itself of fair opportunities. Always and everywhere he
remembers that he has worked faithfully and conscientiously, and that
to himself, and all ^Madison county men of his caliber, is peculiarly
applicable the well-worn maxim, thai 'nothing succeeds like success."
Today he is the o\raer of a well-cultivated tract of fifty acres, lying in
Lafaj'ette township, on which he is carrying on operations in modern
farming and cattle raising. Mr. Schlegel is a native son of Madison
county, and was born in April, 1866, a son of Henrj' C. and Laura J.
(Myers) Schlegel. His father, Henry C, a native of Germanj'", emi-
grated to the United States with his parents when still a lad, and after
spending a period of years in Pennsylvania came to Chesterfield, Madi-
son county, Indiana. Subseiiuently, he bought land in Delaware county,
and there settled down to agricultural pursuits. He remained on the
farm until the death of his wife in IS'OS. Since that time he has lived
iu Daleville, Indiana, his daughter keeping house for him. He and his
wife were the parents of four children, namely : William H., who
makes his home in Delaware county on the old homestead ; Elmer ; Mollie,
also a resident of Delaware county; and J. C, who lives at Luna, Ohio.
Elmer Schlegel received his education in the public schools of Dela-
ware county, whence he was taken by his parents when still a child.
That county continued to be his home for upwards of forty years, and
there he was reared and received his entire business training. Thor-
oughly trained in the thousand and one subjects which go to make for
proficiency in the various branches of agricultural 'work, at the age of
twenty-two years he began renting land from his fathci', and thus con-
tinued until March 6, 1906, when he came to his present property,
returning to the county of his birth, and settling on a property in
Lafayette township which he had purchased October 21, 1905. He
has continued to be engaged in general farming and stock raising, and
his operations have all proved uniformly successful. He is an able man-
ager, with inherent business ability and agricultural knowledge that has
come to him from a long line of tillers of the soil. Mr. Schlegel's career
presents a striking example of enterprise, industry and integrity, con-
ducting to eminent success, and of political consistencies based on
enlightened and moderate views — views at all times compatible with a
generous toleration of the sentiments entertained by others, and com-
manding general confidence and esteem. While he has not been a poli-
tician, being essentially a business man, he has shown an interest in those
matters which affect the welfare of Madison county and its people, and
has at all times supported men and measures calculated to bring about
good government. With his family, he attends the United Brethren
Church, of which he is a liberal supporter.
On March 21, 1889, Mr. Schlegel was married to Miss Martha Stew-
art, a native of Delaware "ounty, Indiana, and a daughter of John A.
and Mary E. Stewart. They have had two children : Bertha B., born
October "l4, 1890, and Elmer Stewart, Jr., born May 16, 1905. The
son had very poor health during- the most of his life, and he died
660 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
December 7, 1911. Bertha B., the daughter was married September 2,
1912, to Mr. Elmer Kodecap and now resides in Anderson, Indiana.
Philip A. Childers. One of the old and honored residents of Madi-
son county, who has spent his life in agricultural pursuits and is now
numbered among his community's substantial men, is Philip A. Chil-
ders, the owner of a farm of eighty acres, located on the Childers
road, two miles from Florida. He has been a witness to the wonderful
growth and development of the section which has resulted in making
Lafayette township one of the garden spots of the Hoosier State, and
has contributed his share of energy to the work which has brought this
development about. Mr. Childers is an Indianian and was born on the
old Samuel Hicks farm, in the vicinity of Columbus, December 8, 1844,
a son of Alfred and Mary (Keller) Childers. His father was a suc-
cessful agriculturist, and on his mother's side he is a descendant of an
old family which came from Greenbrier county, Virginia (now West
Virginia). There were three children in the Childers family: Jane,
who married J. R. Surber; Philip A., and Mary E., now Mrs. Bevel-
himer. Mr. Childers' father died in 1847 and his mother was married
a few years later, on the Childers homestead, to C. A. Betterton. To
this union there was one child born. Eliza, who is now deceased.
Philip A. Childers received an ordinary public school education,
pursuing his studies in the Kellar school, and during his boyhood and
youth passed the summer months in the hai-d and honest toil of the
home farm. He was thoroughly trained in farm work, and as he grew
to manhood carefully saved his earnings, with the end ever in view of
becoming the owner of a property. At the time of his mother's death
he realized his ambition by inheriting a part of the homestead, and
subsequently purchased the interests of his sisters, becoming sole owner
of the Childers homestead, which he has since continued to operate.
With the exception of several years spent in the West, he has always
made his home in Madison county, and his success in his operations has
given him no cause to regret his location. While he has all the prac-
ticality of the old-school agriculturist, Mr. Childers has not been back-
ward in adopting modern methods, and his well-tilled fields give evi-
dence of his able management and untiring industry. He uses machinery
of modern manufacture, thoroughly understands rotation of crops, and
is widely known as a judge of livestock. Personally, he is a man of the
strictest integrity, having fairly won a reputation for square dealing
in all matters of business.
On January 23, 1874, Mr. Childers was married in Lafayette town-
ship, to Miss Elizabeth Hannah, a member of a family which origi-
nated in Pennsylvania, subsequently moved to Ohio, and came from
that state to Madison county, Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Childers have
been the parents of four children, namely : Bertha, who is deceased ;
Jeannette, who married John Kennedy, and has two children, — ilurrell
and Herman; Mary, who became the wife of Vernon Melsom: Ethelyn,
single and residing with her father; James C, who is married and has
one child, Elizabeth. Mrs. Childers died January 7, 1887, in the faith
of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Childers has been a stanch
Democrat all of his life, and while he has not aspired to public office,
has ever been known as one of the mainstays of his party in his locality.
His comfortable home is located on Anderson Route No. 3, and in the
rear of the property is located one of the landmarks of this section, the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 661
old pioueer log home in which his mother first settled when she arrived
in Lafayette township, and which was the fifth house built here.
Absalom Richwine. This venerable man, now in the sixty-eighth
year of his age, who with firm step and unclouded mind still attends to
his daily routine of affairs, has, during his more than a half a century
of residence in Madison county, witnessed almost its entire development
and borne a share in the startling course of its progress. During some-
thing like twenty years of this time he has been a resident of Lafayette
township, where he has been identified with agricultural pursuits, and
where he still owns one of the finest properties in this section, a ninety-
acre tract of land located about sev-en miles from Anderson. Mr. Rich--
wine was born July 16, 184.5, in Wayne county, Indiana, and is a son
of Gideon and Elizabeth (Rader) Richwine. He was still a lad when
the family migrated to ^ladison county, the father taking up land in
Jackson township, where he became one of the community's most repre-
sentative and substantial farmers and stockmen. He was known as a
man of progress and public-spirit, gave his children good educational
advantages, and died honored and respected by all who knew him. He
and his wife were the parents of four' sons and three daughters, as fol-
lows: Noah, who is engaged in farming in Pipe Creek township; Allen,
who is a resident of Anderson ; Absalom ; Mary ; Amanda, who became
the wife of a Mr. Sigler; Martha and David.
The educational training of Absalom Richwine was commenced in
the district schools of Jackson township, this being supplemented by
attendance in the public schools of Frankton. During all of his school
period, he spent the summer months in work upon his father's farm,
being reared to habits of industry and integrity and thoroughly trained
in all that constitutes a successful agriculturist. He was persevering
and industrious, carefully saving his earnings in order that he might
some day become the owner of a farm of his own, and on attaining his
majority commenced renting land from his father. Eventually, Mr.
Richwine took up a small farm in Jackson township, on which he carried
on operations until about the year 1893, at which time he made removal
to Lafayette township and purchased his present homestead, and here
he has since resided. From time to time he has added to his buildings,
his equipment and his stock, in the meantime making numerous improve-
ments, and has thus succeeded in developing a handsome home. Pro-
gressive in all things, he is ever ready to give new ideas and methods a
trial, and the latest farming machinery is to be found on his farm. He
is the owner of a modem model automobile, which he finds not only the
medium of a great deal of enjoyment, but also a great aid to him in his
business trips. Mr. Richwine has always been very fond of hunting,
and has a justly established reputation as a nimrod. When able to lay
aside his business duties, he is in the habit of taking trips to New Bruns-
wick, accompanied by a guide and a gun. Highly skilled in woodcraft,
he has been successful in his search for the denizens of the forest, and
has a record of seven deer in one trip.
On May 3, 1873, Mr.Richwine was married to Miss Mary C. Hart-
man, and they have had one son : Dory, who married Ethel Sigler, and
resides on the home farm which he manages for his father. The mem-
bers of the family are associated with the Methodist Episcopal church,
and activeh support its various movements. Mr. Richwine is a sterling
662 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Democrat and a leader in his neighborhood in the councils of the Demo-
cratic party.
Alvin H. Davis. The owner of a fine farm of 200 acres, located in
Lafayette township, Alvin H. Davis has won a firmly established posi-
tion among the agriculturists here, and during a residence of nearly
forty-five years has shown himself a representative public-spirited citi-
zen. Mr. Davis is a native son of Madison county, having been born in
a house at the corner of Tenth and Jackson streets, in the village of
Anderson, Indiana, March 27, 1853, and is a son of John H. and Sarah
(Pugh) Davis. Jesse Davis, the grandfather of Alvin H. Davis, was
born in Pennsylvania, from which state as a young man he removed to a
farm near Germantown, Ohio. There was born John H. Davis, who was
reared to agricultural pursuits and became an early settler of Ander-
son, Indiana. He was well known in public circles, and served ;\Iadison
county as sheriff for a period of years. John H. and Sarah (Pugh)
Davis became the parents of two children : Alvin H., and Franklin P.,
who died at the age of nineteen years.
Alvin H. Davis received good educational advantages, attending the
old private school taught by the Rev. Joseph Franklin, and was reared
to habits of industry and integritj', and thoroughly trained in farm
work. He was sixteen years of age when he accompanied his parents to
the old Davis homestead, and when he became twenty-one years old his
father entrusted him with the entire management of the farm, which
has since been under his supervision. From time to time Mr. Davis has
made improvements of a modern character, and has added to his build-
ings, his equipment and his stock. His 200 acres are all in a high state
of cultivation, and his able management has resulted ia making this one
of the valuable properties of the township. A shrewd, far-sighted busi-
ness man, he has ever been honorable in his dealings, and has gained
and maintained a reputation for strict honesty and integrity. He has
given his entire attention to his farming operations, and has not cared
for the strife of the political arena, outside of taking a good citizen's
interest in matters that directly affect his community. In a wide
acquaintance, a number of sincere friends testify to his popularity.
Mr. Davis was married to Miss Martha A. Ash ton, a member of an
old and honored family of Madison county. They are consistent mem-
bers and liberal supporters of the Methodist Episcopal church.
Joseph W. Srackangast, a leading representative citizen and pros-
perous farmer of Lafayette township, Madison county, by virtue of his
popularity and usefulness in his county, deserves prominent place in
this biographical record. For some years he has been engaged in culti-
vating a tract of sixty acres of well cultivated land lying on the Florida
road, about five miles northwest of Anderson, but the greater part of his
time and attention have been devoted to contracting and building opera-
tions, he having erected a number of the most modern homes and busi-
ness structures of this vicinity. Mr. Srackangast is a native of the
Hoosier State, bom in the town of PerkinsvUle, July 24, 1863, and is a
son of Absalom P. and Susanna (Wise) Srackangast.
The paternal grandparents of Mr. Srackangast, Joseph and Eliza-
beth (Foland) Srackangast, were probably natives of Pennt Ivania, from
whence they migrated to Guernsey county. Ohio, and later removed to
Hamilton county. Indiana. There was born Absalom P. Srackangast,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 663
who was given only meagre advantages in the district schools and was
largely self-educated. He was about twenty-one years of age when he
removed to Perkinsville, residing in that "town "until 1873, when he
removed to Frankton, and there became one of the leading business men
of the place, being largely interested in contracting and in the manu-
facture of buggies, wagons and carriages. He had a family of five chil-
dren, namely: Joseph W., Thomas J., Walter W., a resident of Frank-
ton; Mrs. Minnie Hawkins, and Mrs. Bessie Webb.
Joseph W. Srackangast received his early education in the public
schools of Perkinsville, and was ten years of age when he accompanied
his parents to Frankton. There he continued to attend school for sev-
eral years, and on completing his studies began to learn the contracting
business under the preceptorship of his father, whose assistant he became.
Later he embarked in business on his own account, and has continued
contracting and building to the present time, some of the most sub-
stantial structures in Lafayette township standing as monuments to hia
skill and good workmanship. Mr. Srackangast is a keen, capable man of
business, with the foresight to recognize an opportunity, the courage to
grasp it and the ability to carry it through to a successful conclusion,
yet he has never taken advantage of another's necessity nor has he ever
engaged in any but strictly legitimate enterprises. He has also shown
himself to be a good practical agriculturist, his sixty acres of good land
being well cultivated, drained and ditched, neatly fenced and furnished
with a full complement of buildings and the latest improved farming
machinerj'. He possesses in the fullest degree the confidence of his
neighbors and business associates, and as a public-spirited citizen has
assisted materially in building up his community.
On October 25, 1887. ilr. Srackangast was married to Miss Isabelle
Scott, daughter of Sanford and Hannah (Tibbs) Scott, and to this union
there have been born six children, naiijely : Mildred and Caroline, who
reside with their parents ; James P., wlio is a student in the Anderson
High school ; Louise and Mary, and ilerle, who is deceased. The family
attends the Methodist Episcopal church, in the congregation of which
its members have many sincere friends.
William W. Hancock. One of the better known farming and stock
men in this county is William W. Hancock, farmer, stock dealer and
o^\-ner of one of the leading breeding stables of the county and state.
Since he reached his legal ma.iority Mr. Hancock has been confining him-
self strictly to the business now in hand, and has spared no labor to
place himself in the ranks of the leading men of his district in his
chosen field of enterprise. Fitted admirably by nature and inclination
for a life such as he has followed, Mr. Hancock has gone steadily for-
ward with his work, each year adding something of value to his goodly
fund of knowledge pertaining to tlie subject, and bringing him more
and more prominence and prosperity as well.
Born in Mount Pleasant township, Delaware county, this state, in
1860. William W. Hancock is the son of Joseph T. and Esther Ann
(Fountain) Hancock. The father was a native of Indiana and came
from W^ayiie county to Delaware county when he was eight years old.
Thirty-four years represent the time he passed in Delaware county, and
in 1875 he located in Madison county, where he passed his closing days.
Seven children were bom of his union with Esther Ann Fountain, and
concerning them brief mention is here made as follows: Alise the first
Vol. n— 2 0
664 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
bom, married Alfred Ellison ; John Luther, Mary E. Jones, William
"W., Joseph (the fifth born, died in 1865) ; James L., and Martha Bron-
nenberg.
The schools of Delaware and Madison counties supplied the educa-
tion of William W. Hancock, and he finished his education at Danville
■when he was yet in his teens, and then applied himself to the work of
teaching, in which he continued until he was twentj'-oue. As a boy at
home he had been thoroughly trained in farm work, and such instruction
as had not been imparted by his father, the young man set about to
learn for himself when he engaged in the business independently. From
general farming he has gradually worked into the breeding and sale
of all kinds of stock, and today has one of the most popular breeding
and sale stables in the state, and is known widely as a successful and far-
sighted breeder and dealer. In addition to his activities in that line,
Mr. Hancock deals extensively in stock of all kinds, and handles annually
a large number of animals destined for the market. As well as build-
ing up a fine farm, Mr. Hancock has acquired a handsome and comfort-
able residence, indicative of his progressive and generous spirit.
In 1882 Mr. Hancock was married to Miss Hulda Bronnenberg, the
daughter of Michael Bronnenberg of Madison county, concerning whom
more definite mention is made in other pages of this historical and
biographical work. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Han-
cock. The first born, Orlie Sherman Hancock (died in 1893) ; Esther
Sophrone, is the wife of Hector D. Kirk and thej- have one child, Helen
Kirk; Lorena Hazel, the third child of Mr. and IMrs. Hancock, married
William E. Elliott, and they have one son, — Robert William Elliott
The EUiotts are now in Calcutta, India, where they have been located
since 1911 and engaged in the Y. M. C. A. College work, Mr. Elliott being
chosen as National Secretary from America to India and sent there by
the National Committee to engage in said work. William Taylor, the
fourth child of Mr. and Jlrs. Hancock, married Miss Clara Cooper and
is engaged in the agricultural and stock business and bids fair to sur-
pass the aspirations of the father.
Mr. Hancock is a stanch Progressive Republican in his political faith
and gives earnestly of his time and energies for the furtherance of the
interests of that party in his district. He is not a man who has found
pleasure in fraternal asociations, although the spirit of brotherhood is
strong within him, but he has rather been one who has been too deeply
engrossed in his own affairs to find time for outside interests. His citi-
zenship has been one of the highest order, and he stands well in his com-
munity, and wherever he is known he bears the good will and kindly
interest and regard of his fellows. His success has been of his own
winning, and he may well be proud of his accomplishments in the field
with which he has been identified.
John R. Alexander. Of the various industries and occupations
which engage the time and efforts of men, none are carried on upon
a more certain basis than farming, nor, under the proper conditions,
given more substantial returns. Modern farming is verj- different in
method from that carried on by the agriculturists of several generations
ago, but all the advantages of perfected machinery and the scien-
tific advice of experts enjoyed by the farmer of today, there is still no
royal road to success in this industry. The profitable cultivation of the soil
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 665
means many months of hard, earnest toil, even under the most favorable
conditions, and the successful agriculturists of today are those who are
possessed of qualities far beyond those of the ordinary. The agricultural
interests of Lafayette township have gained their preseut prestige
through the work of such men as John R. Alexander, whose excellent
property is located on the Flat Bar pike, about three-quarters of a mile
south of Frankton, Indiana. He has the distinction of being a native
of the Hoosier state, having been born on what is known as the James
Alexander farm three-(iuarters of a mile west of Linwood, a son of
James and ^lary J. (Heatou) Alexander, January 30, 1867.
James Alexander was born in Fleming, county, Kentucky, and was
a lad of five years when brought to Rush county by his father. Here he
grew to manhood, securing his education in the publie school at New
Salem, Indiana, and in 1865 came to Madison county, where he bought
out the heirs of his father-in-law, John Heaton, and located on the land
that had been located by the latter, a tract of eighty acres in Lafayette
township. His first home on this property was an old log cabin, but as
the years passed and his financial resources increased, he erected a more
comfortable and substantial home, with other substantial buildings, and
continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits during the remainder
of his life. He and his wife had the following children : William E., a
resident of Linwood, Indiana ; Anna E., now Mrs. Thomas, who has four
children, — Leigh, Lena, Walter and Pearl ; John R., Alva D., and JaiUes
E., of Linwood.
John R. Alexander first attended the Wilson school house in his
native vicinity, and subsequently continued his education in the old
Free school. During this time he had spent his summer months in
work on the home farm, and at the age of nineteen years began to
work out by the month, continuing to be so engaged until he was thirty-
five years of age. He was ambitious and industrious and earefuUy saved
his earnings, with the result that he was able to purchase his present
farm, which he has developed into one of the finest in this part of the
county. General farming and stock raising have occupied his atten-
tions, and his good judgment, able management and constant industry
have enabled him to become successful along both lines. He has a wide
acquaintance and bears the reputation of being strictly honorable in all
of his business dealings.
Mr. Alexander was married in 1898 to Miss Hattie Free, a sister of
Leroy Free, a review of whose life will be found on another page of this
volume. One child has been born to ilr. and Mrs. Alexander: Floyd,
who is now attending the public school of District No. 3, known as the
Salem School. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander are consistent members of the
Methodist Episcopal church.
Elmek Webb. With some men there seems to be but one line of
endeavor which they can follow, one fixed vocation to which they are
able to do .justice, but this in no way applies to Elmer Webb, of Alex-
ander township. A successful farmer, owning a tract of 200 acres of
well cultivated land, he is also widely known as a specialist in treating
cancer, and has 'fairly won the title by which he is familiarly, and in
numerous cases gratefully known, that of "Doctor" Webb. He is gen-
erally recognized as a good and public-spirited citizen, who has the best
interests of his community at heart and who has never failed to give his
earnest support to all movements making for progress and development.
666 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Mr. Webb is a native of the Hoosier State, having been born in the village
of Connersville, Fayette county, August 11, 1850, and is a son of Minor
and America (Smelser) Webb.
Elmer Webb was reared to honest toil on the home farm and received
the ordinary education of a farmer's son, attending the district schools
during the winter terms, while his summer months were spent in assist-
ing his father and brother, Marshall. His sister, Ella, is now Mrs. Mead,
the wife of an agriculturist of this county. . After completing the course
of study in the district schools, Mr. Webb applied himself to the study of
medicine at home, his spare time being devoted to earnest perusal of
such books on medical science as he could obtain. He was especially inter-
ested in the treatment and cure of cancer, rheumatism and blood poison,
and accordingly specialized along this line, eventually attaining such
proficiency in this direction that he gained the attention and patronage
of patients all over this section. In the meantime he had not neglected to
carry on his farming operations, and as the years have passed he has
added from time to time to his holdings, until now he has 195 acres
under the plow, his property yielding him handsome returns for the
labor he has expended upon it. An alert, energetic man, alive to all
the real issues of the day, he has participated in the activities that have
advanced the interests of his section, and can be counted upon to con-
tribute of his time or means to any beneficial movement. Education,
morality and good citizenship have found in him an able and zealous
supporter, and he has been liberal in his contributions to religious
movements. He has never sought nor cared for public office.
On May 27, 1871, Mr. Webb was married in Pipe Creek township, to
Miss Sarah C. Owens, daughter of James and Mary A. (Miller) Owens,
who came from North Carolina to Madison county at an early period in
this section's history. Two children have been bom to this union:
Minor, and Ollie, who is now Mrs. Dipboye. The comfortable Webb
homestead is situated on Alexander Rural Free Delivery Route No. 20.
Mr. Webb is a staunch Republican, believing in Lincoln, Chase, Sumner,
Fremont and all of the patriots of the formation of that party. The
history of the Republican party and its traditions are sacred to him. He
is a member of Mt. Moriah Lodge, No. 77, F. & A. M., at Anderson, and
also of Lodge No. 131, I. 0. 0. F., of Anderson, in which he takes an
active part. Mr. Webb is progressive and was one of the first rural
residents of Madison county to own an automobile.
George A. Whitledge, M. D. The medical profession of Madison
county has always been noted for the excellent attainment and high
character of its members, and in the ranks of the active practitioners of
to-day are men whose ability ranks them among the best representatives
of the profession in the state. One of the youngest physicians and
Burgeons, and a specialist in diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, is
Dr. Whitledge, whose career since locating for active practice in Ander-
son fifteen years ago has been marked by expert qualifications and suc-
cessful work.
George A. Whitledge is a native of Kentucky, born in Henderson
county, near Corydon, June 11, 1869. His father was Thomas W. T.
Whitledge, who was born in the same county of Kentucky in 1846. The
maiden name of the mother was China Brown, and she too was born
in Henderson county, Kentucky. Both parents are now deceased. The
family is of English extraction.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 667
Dr. Whitledge acquired his early education in the common and high
schools of Corydon, after which he entered the State University jMedical
School at Louisville, where he was graduated in 1891 with his medical
degree. During 1895-96 he pursued special courses in the diseases of
the eye, ear, nose and throat. He was also a student in the special course
of opthalmology and pursued post graduate work in the Medical Departs
ment of Cornell University. In 1897 he began medical practice with spec-
ial attention to the departments for which he had prepared himself. In
1902 Dr. Whitledge, who has always been alert and eager to keep apace
with the best attainments of his profession, was again a post graduate
student in medicine in New York City, while in 1907 he went abroad and
attended lectures and clinics on the eye, ear, nose and throat in Vienna
and Berlin. On retiirning to the United States he opened his office in
Anderson as a specialist in those diseases, and has since acquired a large
practice.
Dr. Whitledge is an active member of the Madison County Medical
Society, of which he has served as both president and secretary ; the State
Medical Society; the American Medical Association; and of the State
Board of Ophthalmology, appointed by Governor Ralston. Fraternally
he is associated with j\It. Moriah Lodge, No. 77, A. F. & A. M., and with
Anderson Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. In
politics he is a Democrat, but has never held ofBee or sought prominence
in party affairs.
On the 18th of June, 1891, Dr. Whitledge was married to Miss Effie
Dixon, of Henderson county, Kentucky, a daughter of George W. Dixon,
who was a prominent merchant and farmer of that locality. The Whit-
ledge residence is located at 327 West Eighth street, Anderson, and the
Doctor maintains his office in the Union Building.
Isaac Beonnenberg. Among the enterprising citizens of Madison
county who owe their success and advancement in life to their own well
directed efforts and industry is Isaac Bronnenberg, of Lafayette town-
ship. He is a leading representative of the agricultural interests here,
and has done his full share in advancing the growth and development of
the community, and his career furnishes an example of what may be
attained through the exercise of enterprise, perseverance and integrity.
Mr. Bronnenberg was born June 12, 1850, in Richland township, Madi-
son county, Indiana, and is a son of Michael and Francena (Forkner)
Bronnenberg.
His great grandfather, Isaac Forkner whose name he bears, was a
soldier in the war of 1812, from North Carolina. His grandfather, Jesse
Forkner was an early settler of Madison county, coming here in 1837,
where he served as county commissioner, being a Whig in politics.
Before coming to :\Iadison county Jesse Forkner was sheriff of Henry
county, and was one of the first to enter lands in Liberty township in
that county. .
Michael Bronnenberg was born in Indiana, and was engaged in agri-
cultural pursuits throughout his life, establishing a good home for his
family and rearing his children to lives of usefulness and industry. They
were seven in number, as follows: Carl. Jasper, Isaac, Frank (who is
deceased) Hannah, Hulda and Weems. Isaac Bronnenberg received his
education in the public schools of his native vicinity, which he attended
during the winter terms, his summers being spent in work on the home
farm. He early decided to make the cultivation of the soil his life work,
and remained under the parental roof until he was twenty-six years of
668 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
age, at which time he purchased his first piece of land in Lafayette town-
ship. To this he has added from time to time, and now has about 260
acres under cultivation, on which he raises excellent crops. He has
erected modern, commodious buildings for the shelter of his stock, grain
and implements, and has a comfortable residence, equipped with modern
conveniences. General farming has occupied the greater part of his
attention, althoiigh he has raised some stock and engaged in various
other branches of agricultural work. He has built up a firmly estab-
lished reputation for integrity and honorable business dealings, and is
justly considered one of his community's representative substantial
citizens.
On February 18, 1875, Mr. Bronnenberg was united in marriage with
Miss Margaret Gooding, daughter of Lennox and Martha (Callahan)
Gooding. Lennox Gooding was born in Fleming county, Kentucky, and
was educated in his native state. When a young man he migrated to
Madison county, Indiana, and located on what is known as the old Good-
ing home place, a tract on which he continued operations throughout the
remainder of his life. He and his wife were the parents of three chil-
dren: Mrs. Bronnenberg, James and John. Mr. Grooding became one
of the heavy taxpayers of Madison county, being at one time the owner
of 500 acres of land. Mr. and IV^rs. Bronnenberg have had six children,
as follows: James A., who married Cora Bodkins; Elsie, who married
Matt Holder; Effie, who became the wife of Elmer Harless; Anna, who
married Amos Boyer; Exie, who married Carl Free; and Sarah.
Mr. Bronnenberg is a Democrat in his political belief, but has never
aspired to public oflBce, being content to devote his energies to the work
of tilling his fertjle fields. With his family, he belongs to the Methodist
Episcopal church, to the movements of which he donates liberally.
Jesse E. Hall. In no field of endeavor is there demanded a more
careful preparation, a more thorough appreciation of the absolute ethics
of life, or of the underlying principles which form the basis of human
rights and privileges than in that of the law, and in no profession is there
a career more open to talent. Intuitive wisdom, unflagging application,
and a determination to fully utilize the means at hand are the accom-
paniments which insure personal prosperity and influence in this great
profession, which stands as the stern conservator of justice, and it is one
into which none should enter without a realization of the struggles which
■will have to be won, for success comes only as a result of ability and
iinusual capacity. Among those who have won merited recognition at
the Madison county bar, none stand higher in public esteem than does
Jesse E. H&ll, of Alexandria, a wide-awake, energetic citizen and mem-
ber of the village advisory board, who for nineteen years has occupied
offices at No. 113 1-2 North Harrison street. Mr. Hall was bom two
and one-half miles east and one-half mile north of Alexandria, Indiana,
and is a son of Jesse H. and Elizabeth S. (Ellis) Hall.
The paternal grandparents of Mr. Hall, Joseph Hall and his wife,
were natives of Virginia and early settlers of Ohio, and came to Madison
county, Indiana, as pioneers about the year 1832. He bought and
improved a farm in Monroe township, and there continued to carry on
operations throughout the balance of his career, making a success of his
transactions and gaining the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens.
His death occurred in advanced age, while his wife was eighty -three years
old at the time of her demise. They had a family of six children, namely :
J
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 669
Jesse H., John, James, George, Louisa and Jane. Evan Ellis, the maternal
grandfather of Jesse E. Hall, came from North Carolina with his wife,
and became an early settler in Madison county. He was also a farmer,
carried on large operations, and was well known and highly regarded
in his community. He and his wife were the parents of three children :
Sarah, Emily and Elizabeth S.
Jesse H. Hall was bom in Ohio, and was eight years of age when
he accompanied his parents to Indiana. Reared to the life of an agricul-
turist, he early gave up tilling the soil to engage in educational work,
and for twenty-seven terms was one of the most popular teachers Madi-
son county had known. He died on the farm east of Alexandria, in
March 24, 1901, at the age of seventy-seven years, while his wife passed
away in November 17, 1904, when seventy-four or seventy-five years of
age. Both were faithful members of the Methodist church. They had a
family of thirteen children, of whom eleven grew to maturity : Louisa,
deceased, who never married ; Nathan A., who resides in Monroe town-
ship ; Sarah A., who became the wife of Alexander Peck, of Monroe town-
ship; Joseph E., who is a practicing physician of Alexandria; William
I., also liviug here; Mary E., who became the wife of William H. May,
of Alexandria ; Charles M., an agriculturist of Jlonroe township ; Jesse
E. ; Maggie, who died uiunarried ; Henry H., of Alexandria ; and John
Wesley, Catherine and Amanda, all of whom died in early childhood.
Jesse E. Hall was reared on his father's farm in Madison county,
and his early education was secured in the district schools. Subse-
quently he attended Fairmount Academy and the Northern Indiana
Normal school, at Valparaiso, and the next three years were passed in
teaching school in Nebraska. At the end of that period he went back to
Valparaiso and entered the law school, and later went to Columbia Law
school, Ann Arbor, Jlichigan, where he was graduated in June, 1892,
being admitted to the bar during the same year, as well as to the Supreme
Court. After settling up the business of one of his brothers in the West,
Mr. Hall came to Alexandria in July, 1893, and here has continued in
the enjoyment of a large practice to the present time. Since his advent
here, Mr. Hall's comprehensive understanding of the principles of the
law, his careful preparation of cases and his fidelity to his clients' inter-
ests have gained him an enviable position among the legists of his native
county, while his devotion to the best interests of the city have made him
no less well known as a public-spirited citizen. He served faithfully in
the capacity of city attorney for two years, and is one of the valued mem-
bers of the Alexandria Business Men's Association and the Men's Broth-
erhood.
On September 13, 1895, Mr. Hall was married to Miss Myrtle Bell,
who was bom in Alexandria, Indiana, daughter of William and Nettie
(Chaplin) Bell, both deceased, the former a native of Anderson and the
latter of Alexandria, Indiana. They had three children: Myrtle,
Edward and Richard. Mr. and Mrs. Hall have had three children : Cora
B., Nettie M. and Perry E. They are members of the Methodist Episco-
pal church. In political matters Mr. Hall has given his support to the
principles of the new Progressive party. His fraternal connections are
with Alexandria Lodge, No. 335, Knights of Pythias; Haymakers' Asso-
ciation ; Roval Arcanum ; Mashingonisha Tribe, No. 110, Improved Order
of Red Men ; and the local tent of the Knights of the Maccabees.
670 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Chaeles Stinson. The flourishing township of Anderson occupies
its high position among the leading townships of Madison county by
reason of its public -spirited, progressive agriculturists, who have at all
times manifested a commendable willingness to do all in their power to
further its advancement and promote its prosperity. One of the fore-
most of these patriotic citizens is found in the person of Charles Stinson,
who for a number of years has been especially concei-ned in the develop-
ment of the agricultural interests of his section, and has contributed no
slight amount of material assistance and influence in this direction. Mr.
Stinson is a native of Madison county, and was born in Adams township,
April 11, 1874, a son of Isum and Elizabeth (VanDever) Stinson.
The Stinson family was founded in the Hoo.sier State by George Stni-
son, the grandfather of Charles, who was a native of North Carolina and
an early settler of Madison county, where he entered land during the
administration of President Andrew Jackson. Isum Stinson was also
bom in the Old North State and was an infant when brought to Indiana
by his parents. He spent his entire career in agricultural pursuits, and
became one of his section's substantial men, although never entering
public life. He and his wife were the parents of sis children, namely:
William, George, Sadie, who married a Mr. CuUepher ; Samuel, Charles,
and Maggie, who became the wife of a Mr. Williams.
Charles Stinson spent his youth upon the home farm in Adams town-
ship, working in the fields and meadows through the summer months,
and when the snow fell entered the district schools of the neighborhood,
where he pursued his lessons until the return of spring necessitated his
return to farm duties. For a time he was a student in the Fessler school,
but completed his education in the schools of Adams township, following
which he gave over his whole time and attention to the tilling of the
soil. His advance in his chosen vocation has been continuous and weU
balanced, and at this time he is the owner of a handsome property located
on the Main street road, in Anderson township, about one and one-half
miles from Anderson. Mr. Stinson has given the greater part of his
labor to general farming, but he has also met with a gi'atifyiug success
in stock raising, and his sleek, well-fed cattle testify to his ability in this
line. He is practical and progressive in his methods, and in the manage-
ment of his business affairs displays a sound judgment that has brought
to him a merited success.
On August 29, 1895, Mr. Stinson was united in marriage with Miss
lona B. Harmeson, daughter of John and Nancy J. (Rector) Harmeson,
who make their home on the Main Street road, between Mr. Stinson 's
farm and the city of Anderson. Mr. and Mrs. Stinson have had three chil-
dren: Val, Alvey and Zelma. They are members of the Christian
church and active in its work, giving freely of their time and means in
the support of its movements. In politics Mr. Stinson is a Democrat, but
he is too great a lover of his home to enter actively into the struggles of
the political arena, although no enterprise of public importance escapes
his intelligent consideration. That he is generally popular with his fel-
low citizens is testified to by his wide circle of friends.
Joseph Himelick. A highly esteemed and thriving fanner of Van
Buren township, Joseph Himelick, now serving as a member of the County
Council of Madison county, is intimately associated with the agricul-
tural interests of Van Buren township, owning and occupying a fine
estate, to the value and improvement of which he is constantly adding.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 671
A native of Indiana, he was born in Union county, September 14, 1865,
a son of John Himelick. His paternal grandparents, James and Mary
(Curry) Himelick, who were pioneer settlers of Frankin county,
Indiana, reared four children, as follows: John, who was the only son;
Anna, who married AVm. Carpenter; Elizabeth, now Mrs. GaUoway; and
Mary, who married John Styres.
Born and brought up in Franklin county, John Himelick selected
farming as his occupation, and as a young man began life for himself in
Madison county. About 1875 he moved from Van Buren township to
Grant county, and there lived and labored until his death, his body being
laid to rest in Fairmount Cemetery. He married ]\lary C. Morris, who
survived him. and is now living in Summitville, Indiana. Nine children
were born of their union, namely : George, Joseph, the special subject of
this brief sketch; Elizabeth, deceased; Robert, John, Olive, Maud,
Orville, and Earl.
Gleaning his elementary knowledge of books in the schools of Sum-
mitville, Joseph Himelick completed his studies in Grant county, attend-
ing the district schools of Fairmount township, where his father located.
In the meantime he acquired a practical knowledge of agriculture while
assisting in the care of the parental farm. Beginning the battle of life on
his own account at the age of twenty-one years, he worked for a while
by the month, after which he had the care of his grandmother's farm for
three years. Anxious then to enlarge his operations, Mr. Himelick rented
another near-by farm, and supervised both estates for a time. Having
by dint of hard labor and thrift accumulated some money, he then pur-
chased the eighty-acre farm that he last rented, and in its management
met with unquestioned success. He has since acquired other valuable
tracts of land, and is now the owner of three hundred acres of choice
land, one hundred and twenty acres being advantageously located in
Grant county, while his home place in Van Buren township, Madison
county, contains one hundred and eighty acres, which he devotes to gen-
eral farming.
Mr. Himelick married, October 5, 1888, Amanda B. Webster, a daugh-
ter of William and Samantha (Englis) Webster, and to them three chil-
dren have been born, namely: Robert E., who married Sdna Scott;
Virgil, and Willias. Religiously Mr. Himelick is a member of the
Christian church.
The pretty homestead of Mr. and Mrs. Himelick is known as the
"Catalpa Grove Stock Farm" and is one of the fine estates of North
Madison county. The original spelling of the name of Himelick in the
German language was "Hymelich. "
William S. Poling. One of the industries which have done much to
extend the fame of Anderson as a manufacturing center is the Spring
Steel Fence and Wire Company, of which William S. Poling is president.
Mr. Poling is also at the head of the Simplex Manufacturing Company,
a concern that makes automobile parts. The Spring Steel Fence and
Wire Company succeeds to the business of the Shimer Woven Wire
Fence Company and was founded in 1907, and incorporated under the
present title in 1909. From the original capital stock of fifty thousand
dollars the business now employs a capital of three hundred thousand
dollars, and the increase of capital is an excellent index of the growth and
prosperity of the concern. The grounds occupied by the plant comprise
four acres, and the main building is of brick and concrete construction.
672 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
The fencing, gates and other wire products of tliis company have an exten-
sive sale not only locally and in the United States, but are exported to
such distant countries as England, India, Japan and South America.
William Sherman Poling was born in Logan, Perry county, Ohio, on
October 25, 1867, a son of Nathan and Elizabeth (Welter) Poling. The
mother died in 1892, and the father, who was for many years a merchant
of Ada, Ohio, died in 1912. Nathan Poling was born and educated in
Germany, came to America when a young man, and while living in
Ohio served as a soldier of the Union in the One Hundred and Four-
teenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. William S. Poling was educated in
the pul^lic schools of Ada and graduated from the Normal University of
that city in 1898. Soon afterwards he came to Anderson, was in business
with others for eight years, and then formulated and organized the com-
pany of which he is now president, the Spring Steel Fence and Wire
Company. Other members of this firm are : Frederick E. HoUoway,
vice president ; and Guy J. Derthick, secretary and treasurer. Mr. Poling
is an active Republican and a strong worker for aU local improvements
and measures tending to advance the civic welfare.
On December 15, 1891, Mr. Poling married Miss Lula A. Bosworth,
daughter of Isaac W. Bosworth, an old resident of Anderson. They have
one daughter, Aubrey A., who graduated from Oberlin College in 1913.
The family reside at 1917 Meridian street in Anderson.
William H. Bireley. More than twenty years have passed since Wil-
liam H. Bireley first settled in Alexandria, and during this time he has
been continuously engaged in the drug business. Although now past his
seventieth year, he continues to take a keen interest in all that pertains
to the welfare of his adopted city, and is known as a member of that class
of business men who have, by their activities, made this one of the lead-
ing commercial centers of this part of the state. Mr. Bireley was born
at Liberty, Montgomei-y county, Ohio, June 7, 1842, and is a son of Henry
and Martha (Lorimer) Bireley.
Frederick Bireley, the paternal grandfather of WilUam H. Bireley,
was a native of Maryland, of German descent, and followed the occupa-
tion of distiller, also being the owner of a paper mill near Fredericksburg.
He married Barbara Bireley, also of Maryland, and they became the
pai-ents of the following children: John, William J., Joseph, George,
Philip, Mary, who became the wife of Edward Murphy ; Elizabeth, who
married William Emery ; Catherine, who married a Mr. Thompson ; and
Margaret, the wife of Levi Ammon. Hug'h and Nancy (Martin) Lori-
mer, the maternal grandparents of Mr. Bireley, were bom in Pennsyl-
vania, but in young married life moved to Ohio and settled in Darke
county, where Mr. Lorimer followed farming during the greater part of
his life. He was the father of five chilcjren : Elizabeth, who became the
wife of Isaac Pierce; Martha, who married Henry Bireley; Sarah, the
wife of Furman Sebring; Mary, the wife of Christopher Folkert; and
Gibson.
Henry Bireley was born and reared in Maryland, and there learned
the potter's trade, which he followed at Liberty, Ohio, whence he had
come as a young man. There he died in 1846, aged thirty-five years,
having been the father of two children : William H. ; and Sarah E., who
is the widow of James Oliver, and resides at Garrett, Indiana. After his
death, his widow married (second) Noah Arnold, who is also now
deceased, and they had one daughter : Ella, who married Harry McCool,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 673
and now lives at Jaysvilli', Ohio. ,Mrs. Arnold passed away in Darke
county, Ohio, February 2, 1897, at the age of eighty-three years, in the
faitli of the ilethodist ehurrh, of which JMr. Bireley had also been a
member.
William H. Bireley was four years of age when taken by his parents
from Montgomery county to Darke county, Ohio, and there he grew to
manhood on a farm, securing his education in the district and select
Bcliools. Adopting the profession of educator, he taught six terms of
school, of six months each, and was so engaged when he enlisted in Com-
pany F, Ninety-fourth Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, for service
w'itli the 100-day troops. He was corporal of his company and left home
on the 9th day of August, 1862, being wounded on the 31st of the same
month at the battle of Kafs Creek Ferry. For more than a year he
remained at home recuperating, and then re-enlisted as lieutenant of
Company I, One Hundred Fifty-second Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infan-
try, with which he served four months, his term of service then expiring.
On receiving his honorable discharge, he returned to the pursuits of
peace as the proprietor of a flour mill at Greenville, Ohio, where he
remained several j-ears, and was then employed at various mills all over
Ohio and Indiana, continuing in the business for something more than
eighteen years. Mr. Bireley entered the drug business at Carlos City,
Randolph county, Indiana, where he conducted an establishment for
three years, and in 1892 came to Alexandria, where he now has the dis-
tinction of being the second oldest merchant in continuous business
activity. He has a finely stocked and handsomely equipped place of
business at No. Ill West Washington street, where he enjoj'S a steady
and representative trade, and his honorable methods and strict reliability
have won him the confidence of his community.
On August 27, 1863, Mr. Bireley was married to Miss Mary Elizabeth
Roll, who was born May 9, 1841, in Darke county, Ohio, daughter of
Lorenzo Dow and Elizabeth (Curtis) Roll. The paternal grandparents
of Mrs. Bireley were Benjamin and Sarah (Martin) Roll, who had six
children : John, Lorenzo Dow, Harvey, Orin, Margaret and Sarah.
George and Susanna Curtis, ilrs. Bireley 's maternal grandparents, were
the parents of twelve children, namely: Henry, Margaret, Elizabeth,
Mary, Sarah, Jesse, Nathan, Melinda, Anna, Leonard and two who died
in infancy. Lorenzo Dow Roll was bom in Pennsylvania, and died in
1841, when thirty-five years of age, Mrs. Bireley being then but four
months old. His wife, who was born in Virginia, survived him for a
long p€riod, passing away in 1872, when sixty-two years of age. They
were members of the Christian church, and the parents of five children :
John, Sarah, Benjamin, Margaret and Mary. Mr. Roll was a farmer and
teacher.
Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bireley: Charles K.,
a pharmacist in his father's store, who married Clara Stine and has a
son, — Maurice 0. ; and James Fred, who died at the age of twenty-four
years. Mr. Bireley belongs to Carlos City Lodge of Odd Fellows and to
the local lodge of the Improved Order of Red Men. He is a Progressive
in politics, and has for many years interested himself in public matters.
While a resident of New Paris, Preble county, Ohio, he served eflSciently
in the capacity of township trustee, and in Alexandria has been a member
of the city council. He has at all times manifested a commendable inter-
est in movements tending to advance Alexandria 's welfare, and bears the
reputation of a progressive, energetic and public-spirited citizen.
674 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
William A. Coddington. An agriculturist all his life and the owner
of property which he operates himself, "William A. Coddington has his
chief property interests in his farm. It lies on the borders of Linwood,
and its thirty-six acres is immensely valuable as a result. He has given
much of his attention to the business of farming and is known for one
of the enterprising and progressive men of his community, not alone in
his agricultural capacity, but in every enterprise to which he lends a
hand.
Born in Rush county in 1849, Mr. Coddington is the son of Enoch and
Mary Jane (Gates) Coddington. The father was a native of Ohio, and
from that state he moved into Rush county, Indiana, later settlmg in
Madison county, in about 1865. They settled near the town of Florida
on the old Scott farm, so called, and there they passed some years dili-
gently occupied with the business of fanning. They had three children,
— William A., of this review, Amanda, now Mrs. Wilson, and James.
William A. Coddington was a mere boy when the Civil war was in
progress, — so young, indeed, that to his great chagrin, when he offered
his services to his country they were flatly declined. The boy did the
next best thing under the circumstances, — that is, he stopped at home
and took the place of man on the home farm, and it is possible that he
did his country as great a service there as he could possibly have done
in the ranks. The common schools of Rush county supplied his educa-
tion, and when he completed his educational training, he applied him-
self to the business of teaching, continuing so for 19 years. He then
moved to Jackson township where he bought a small piece of laud, and
there he began his independent farming. Since that time he has been
a farmer and stock man, as well as a dealer in farm lands. Mr. Cod-
dington's home, a six room dwelling of the ever popular bungalow
type, is said to be the finest in Linwood. It has just been completed,
and is a model of convenience and comfort.
On September 12, 1873, Mr. Coddington married Mary C. Parsons,
the daughter of Samuel and Anna (Little) Parsons. The father was
a native of Ohio who came to Rush county, Indiana and later located
in Madison county in 1859. He was the father of five children : Sarah,
now Mrs. Simmons ; William F. : Mrs. Lydia Sigler ; George and Mrs.
Coddington. To Mr. and Mrs. Coddington three children have been
born : Rosa, who is the wife of Irwin Hoffman, and the mother of Donald,
now in the Anderson high school; Pearl, the wife of Harry Downey; and
Mabel, still at home.
Mr. Coddington is a Progressive Republican and a supporter of the
new party, while his religious inclinations are with the Christian church,
of which he and his family are members.
Samuel G. Phillips. Among the leading financial institiitions of
Madison county, is found the Alexandria Bank, at Alexandria, much
of the prestige of which has been gained through the efforts of its
president, Samuel G. Phillips. Mr. Phillips entered this institution
some twenty years ago, in a minor capacity, content to learn the busi-
ness from the bottom. Since attaining to the chief executive position
he has controlled its policy, augmented its usefulness, popularized
its coffers and directed the investment of its revenues, and his man-
agement of its affairs has proved to be full of wisdom and of great
advantage to the institution. Samuel G. Phillips was bom September
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 675
9, 1857, ill Raiulolph uouiity, Indiana, and is a son of Ancil B. and
Elizabeth Ana (AdaiusouJ Pliillips.
Thomas and Rebecca Phillips, the subject's grandparents were born
in Peunsjlvaiiia, and both were bound out as children and reared in the
family of a Quaker named Ilaynes, in Philadelphia. They were mar-
ried ill the East, and moved to Randolph county, Indiana, during pioneer
days, there entering land from the government and clearing and develop-
ing a farm. Mr. Phillips died there at the age of eighty-four years,
while his wife attained the remarkable age of ninety-two. They had
the following children : William ; Wesley ; Rev. Ner H. ; Miles ; Ancil B.,
the father of Samuel G. ; Lydia : Rebecca and Hettie. Simon Adam-
son and his wife, the maternal grandparents of ilr. Phillips, were
natives of North Carolina, and became early settlers of Economy, Wayne
county, Indiana. Mr. Adamson in early life was engaged in mercan-
tile pursuits, but in his latter years became a tiller of the soil, and was
so engaged at the time of his death, at the age of 84 years. His wife
passed away when 53 years old, having been the mother of four chil-
dren : Elizabeth Ann, Spencer, IMinerva and John N.
Ancil B. Phillips was born and reared in Randolph county, In-
diana, and for manj- years was engaged in general merchandising at
Bloomingsport, but for the past thirty years has been the proprietor
of a grocery business in Muncie. His wife died in October, 1912, aged
seventy-seven years, in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
of which jMr. Phillips, who reached his eighty-first year in 1913, is
also a member. He is fraternally connected with the Odd Fellows. Mr.
and 'Sirs. Phillips had a family of five children, of whom two survive:
Luella Clark, who is now the wife of J. J. Johnson, of Muncie and
Samuel G.
Samuel G. Phillips was reared in Bloomingsport, Indiana, and thei-e
attended the public schools. He received his introduction to business
life as a clerk in his father's store, as a small boy, and thoroughly
familiarized himself with every detail of the business, thus acquiring
invaluable experience and eventually becoming his father's partner,
under the firm style of A. B. Phillips & Son. Several years later, Mr.
Phillips went to Indianapolis, where he became a traveling salesman
for the old wholesale grocery concern of Syfers, McBride & Company,
with which he was identified for six years, and then became a merchan-
dise broker in Indianapolis. Selling out after three years to Frank
Fishback, he spent two years in traveling for a Cincinnati clothing
firm, and in 1891 came to Alexandria and entered the Alexandria
National Bank, in order to learn the banking business. He subsequently
became assistant cashier of this institution and later cashier, and in
1898, when the Alexandria National was taken over by the Alexandria
Bank, he became president of this concern, of which he has been the
directing head to the present time. This institution, the oldest in Alex-
andria, and one of the most substantial in Madison county, has enjoyed
a steady and continuous growth, and its capitalization has been in-
creased a number of times. Mr. Phillips possesses a comprehensive
knowledge of the principles of finance, a thorough understanding of
political economy as it afi'ects the great operations of production and
distribution, skill in determining the dominant influences that control
human action, and a quick and accurate perception of character. These
qualities have been developed within him by experience and trial in the
676 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
school of practical business, and have served to make him well known
in the financial field in Indiana.
On November 15, 1888, Mr. Phillips was married to ^Miss Etta Han-
nah, who was born at Alexandria, Indiana, daughter of Robert H. and
Caroline (Scott) Hannah, natives of Indiana and for manj' years resi-
dents of Alexandria. Mrs. Hannah died in 1896, aged sixty-six yeai-s,
while her husband is still living, at the age of eighty-three "years. He
was for a long period a merchant, later managed a farm before retir-
ing from active labor, and is still vice-president of the Alexandria Bank,
which he helped "to organize, and takes a decided interest in all that
affects the welfare of the community. He served one term as clerk of
Madison county some years ago. There were four children in the family
of Mr. and Mrs. Hannah : ^Irs. Minnie S. Jlalone, residing in Alex-
andria ; William S., who is a business man of Kansas City, Jlissouri ;
Mrs. Viva J. Clark, of Indianapolis; and Mrs. Etta Phillips, ilrs.
Phillips is a grandaughter of Abraham Hannah and William Scott, both
early settlers of the Hoosier State.
Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Phillips: Robert
Beach and William Thomas. Mrs. Phillips is a member of the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church. Her husband belongs to Alexandria Lodge No.
235, F. & A. M., Alexandria Chapter No. 99, R. A. M., and Alexandria
Council No. 85, R. & S. M. ; to Alexandria Lodge No. 335, Knights of
Pythias; and to Necessity Lodge No. 222, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows. A Republican in his political views, he has served capably
as a member of the council and of the school board. His interests are
wide and varied, and of an extensive nature, and he is one of the direct-
ing heads of the Imbler Fence and 'Manufacturing Company, and a
member of the firm of Hughes & Phillips, manufacturers of the Hughes
Patent Road Scraper and Grader. Since 1887 he has been a member of
the Indianapolis Board of Trade, and he still holds membership in the
Commercial Travelers' Association, which he joined as a young busi-
ness man.
JoHK L. Grider. In the industrial and mercantile enterprise of the
city of Alexandria, John L. Grider has had a very important share
for twenty years, and is now not only one of the merchants in the retail
trade, but is head of one of the manufacturing establishments which give
prestige to Alexandria as an industrial center, being president and man-
ager of the Imbler Pence & Manufacturing Company.
John L. Grider is a native Indianian, having been born at Fincastle,
in Putnam county, September 30, 1860. His parents were Jordan and
Mary (Leaton) Grider. The paternal grandfather was Thomas Grider,
who married Elizabeth Burton. They were both natives of Kentucky,
and were pioneer settlers in Putnam county, Indiana, where they passed
away when in old age. There were four sons and three daughters in the
family whose names were Henton, Jordan, Zacharias, Barton, Rebecca,
Emma and Elizabeth.
Jordan Grider. the father, was born in Putnam county, was reared
there and followed farming all his life. He bought a place of one hun-
dred and sixty acres in Putnam county, cleared off the timber and under-
brush, brought it into a high state of cultivation and upon the crops
and fruitage of its acres provided well for his family. His death
occurred at Roachdale on March 17, 1913, when eighty-one years and
six months old. He was three times married, and altogether was the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 677
father of eight children. The only cliild of his first marriage was
Tliomas L. Grider. By his marriage to Mary Leaton there were two
childreu, John L. of Alexandria, and Emma, wife of Dudley Burk, of
Morton, Indiana. ;\Iary Leaton, the mother of these two childreu died
in 1863 at the age of twenty-seven years. She was born in Putnam
county and reared there, a daughter of John and Cassandra Leaton,
both of whom were from Kentucky. The six children in the Leaton
family were Brinton, Catherine, Eliza, Emma, Mary, and Maria, the
last named dying in infancy. Mr. Jordan Grider married for his third
wife Mrs. Catherine (Ratclitfe) Allison, and their five children were
as follows: Effie, wife of George Swisher of Crawfordsville, Indiana;
Nanny, wife of William "Whithead, of Morton, Indiana; James of
Roachdale ; Frank, of Morehouse, Missouri ; and Lon of Roachdale. Mr.
John L. Grider was reared on his father's farm in Putnam county. As
a boy he attended the district school, and finished his education in the
Ladoga Normal Sdiool. Up to the time he was grown he continued
to live on his father's estate and then began life as a renter, farming
on his own account in Putnam county, until he was twenty-eight years
of age. His next venture was working at railroad bridge carpentering,
an occupation which he followed for two .years. He then spent two
years with an Indianapolis Wholesale Grocery House, and there acquired
a thorough knowledge of the grocery trade. With that experience he
came to Alexandria in 1892, and opened a stock of groceries. He has
made a thorough stud>' of retail trade, has used excellent methods of
presenting his goods to the public, and has always enjoyed a large
patronage. He now has a first-class store at 102 South Harrison street.
During the past five years Mr. Grider has interested himself in manu-
facturing with the Imbler Fence & Manufacturing Company, and as
president and general manager has liad most to do with making this
company a success. The company manufacture woven wire fencing, and
its goods are shipped to all parts of the country. In the factory are
employed eight workmen, the plant is well equipped with the necessary
machinery, and the business is expanding rapidly. Mr. Grider resides
at 204 E. Garfield street.
On the 12th of August, 1893, he married Miss Lizzie Greiner, a
daughter of Pembroke and Alvira (Cleveland) Greiner. Mrs. Grider
was born in New York State, where she lived until eighteen years of
age, then coming to Indiana with her parents who settled in Alexandria,
where she remained until her marriage. Her parents are still living
in this city, and of their two children, the other is a son named Charles
Greiner.
Mr. and Mrs. Grider have two children, Genevieve and Gertrude.
Mr. and Mrs. Grider are members of the Methodist church in which he is
one of the trustees. Fraternally he is affiliated with Alexandria Lodge
No. 235 A. F. & A. M., Alexandria Chapter No. 99 R. A. M. and Ander-
son Commandery No. 32, Knights Templar. He also belongs to the
Improved Order of Red ^Men, the Knights of the ^laecabees, and in poli-
tics is a loyal Republican.
ChabIjES F. Meyer. Senior member of the firm of C. F. Meyer &
Brother, editors and publishers of the weekly and semi-weekly Press at
Alexandria, Mr. Meyer has been identified with newspaper management
in Madison county for more than twenty years and his experience in
practical printing and newspaper work goes back for nearly forty
678 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
years. It has been his vocation since boyhood in fact, and he has always
done well in his chosen vocation.
Charles F. Meyer was bom in Rockford, Ohio, on March 5, 1859, a
son of Frederick and Maria (Kellar) Meyer. The paternal grandfather
was Jacob Meyer, who died when past ninety-two years of age, the
father of four children. On the mother 's side the grandfather was Joseph
Kellar, who was killed in middle life by a falling tree. He was the
father of thirteen children, and Mr. Meyer's mother was the youngest
in that large family.
Frederick Meyer, the father, was born in Switzerland, while his
wife was a native of Baden, Germany. They were the parents of nine
children, seven of whom reached maturity, namely : John W., of Find-
lay, Ohio; Mary, deceased, the wife of Eli Stoffer; Charles F., of Alex-
andria; Ida, widow of Rolla Merrill, of Celina, Ohio; George, deceased;
Joseph, of Celina; Christian, the junior member of the firm of C. F.
Meyer & Brother; and two who died in infancy. The father of this
family was reared in his native land of Switzerland, and came to
America in 1854. His first settlement was in Cleveland where he was
married. Subsequently he moved to Van Wert, Ohio, thence to Mercer,
Mercer county, where he followed his trade and worked at farming, sub-
sequently going to Shanesville, now Rockford, Ohio, and in 1868 trans-
ferred hjs business to Celina, Ohio, bringing his family to that place a
year later. He remained at Celina until his death on May 20, 1874, when
he was forty-seven, three months and seventeen days of age. His wife
survived him many years and passed away in January, 1904, when
nearly seventy-six years old. Both were members of the Catholic faith.
The father was a veteran of the Union army during the Civil war, having
enlisted and served in Company P of the Ninety-ninth Ohio Infantry.
He was discharged on account of disability and sent home. He was a
man who thoroughly enjoyed and deserved the confidence of his com-
munity, and in the early j'ears of his residence in Ohio, he often kept
in his shop sums of money entrusted to him for safe keeping by his
neighbors.
Mr. Charles F. Meyer spent the first ten years of his life in Rock-
ford, Ohio, began his schooling and continued his education at Celina
from 1869. In 1876, when about sixteen years of age, he began learning
the printer's trade, and in a short time had acquired the rudiments of
the art preservative, and has never known nor had ambition for any
other line of business since then. In 1892 Mr. Meyer came to Alexan-
dria, and in the fall of that year established the Alexandria Swi. Soon
afterwards he began the publication of a daily which he called The What
Is It. This paper under its novel title subsequently developed into the
Record, which he sold in 1893. In August, 1893, Mr. Meyer issued the
first number of the Alexandria Press, which will soon complete the 22nd
year of its existence as one of the influential and prosperous newspapers
of Madison county. Christian H. Meyer, his brother, has been a part-
ner in the firm from its beginning. The Press is issued both weekly and
semi-weekly, is a Democratic paper, and a first-class general job-print-
ing business is also conducted. The office of the paper is in the rear of
111 East Washington street.
In 1881 Mr. Meyer married Miss Temperance Snider, a daughter of
David and Elizabeth (Easter) Snider. Their seven children are men-
tioned as follows: Pearl, wife of John Rosenberger, and the mother
of one child Lyla ; Gertrude, who married Charles Osborn. and they are
u/> y.
^ "^ i^c^-^-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 679
residents of Toledo, Ohio ; Carl, who is a linotype operator at Menasha,
Wisconsin, and married Etta McKay, and has one daughter Crystal
Christine; Anna, married Herschel Watson, and they reside in Granite
City, Illinois; Florence, the wife of Clinton Hupp, of Toledo, Ohio, is
the mother of one child now living, Dorothy; Ernest, is a printer in his
father's employ; and Alabel is a school girl. Mr. Charles F. Meyer is
affiliated with the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks; the Modem
Woodmen of America, the Royal Neighbors of America, the German Inde-
pendent Aid Society of Celina, Ohio, and in polities is a Democrat. He
has given four yeai-s service as a member of the Alexandria City Coun-
cil. Christian H. Meyer, younger brother of Mr. Charles F. was born at
Celina, Ohio, December 22, 1869, and married on November 21, 1894,
Miss Catherine Walter, daughter of Henry and Barbara (Pfoff) Wal-
ter. They are the parents of five children whose names are : Walter,
Helen, Edwin, Richard and Robert.
Phiijp G. Decker. For many years Philip G. Decker was a well
known promoter of oil ventures and a driller of oil wells in Ohio and
Indiana, in both of which states he operated extensively and gained a
wide reputation in the oil circles in the two states. His later years, how-
ever, have been devoted to the business of farming, and he is the owner
of one of the finest farms in the county, a tract of two hundred and
seventy acres lying five miles northeast of Anderson.
A native of the state of Ohio, Philip G. Decker was born in Washing-
ton county on November 7, 1858, a son of William E. and Martha Brooks
(Green) Decker. The father, a son of Abraham and Betsey (i^^ay)
Decker, was a pioneer of Washington county, Ohio, and was well known
all his life in that section of the state. He was born in Ohio in 1828, and
was a farmer and a driller of t)il wells. He drilled one of the first wells
in Washington county, Ohio, and later drilled a number of others there,
many of which were self flowing and one of them produced five hundred
barrels a day, wh'le another regularly flowed one hundred and forty
barrels a day and many of his wells continued to produce abundant!
for years. In 1890 he came to Indiana, where he engaged in drilling
wells in Madison county, oil having been discovered in quantities, and he
continued actively in the business as a promoter and a driller until his
death, which occurred in Anderson in 1903. His wife, nee Martha Brooks
Green, as noted above, was a daughter of Philip Green. Her death
occurred in 1898. She became the mother of five sons and two daughters,
and two of the sons are residents of Indiana, — George N., a prominent
farmer, and Philip G.
Philip Green Decker passed his early boyhood on the farm in Ohio,
where he attended the country schools in the winter and occupied him-
self in various other ways in the summer seasons. He assisted his father
in his work in the oil fields until 1888, when he left home and came to
Anderson, for a time thereafter being associated with the Indianapolis
Gas Business, and was one of the first to drill a gas well in Indiana.
While thus engaged oil was discovered, and during the ensuing oil
excitement he drilled a number of productive wells and became one of
the principal gas and oil promoters in Anderson. He continued actively
in the gas and oil business until the wells began to diminish in their
flow, when he disposed of his interests and purchased a good farm in
Madison county, being now engaged in farming and stock raising. His
estate, which is one of the finest ones of this section, is improved with
680 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
splendid buildings and is one of the productive places of the county.
It is located five miles northeast of Anderson and comprises two hundred
and seventy acres of choice land, well stocked with hogs, cattle and
horses.
In 1880 Mr. Decker was married to Miss Phoebe C. Rapp, of "Wash-
ington county, Ohio, a daughter of John and Dorothy (Schoff) Rapp.
The five children born of this union are as follows: Martha, the first
born, is the wife of John P. Hoi ton and resides at Hartford City,
Indiana. Howard and Fred are members of the Decker Brothers Book
Store, and Elnora and Ruth are both at home. Howard graduated from
the Anderson high school, and afterward completed a course in the
University of Valparaiso, Indiana, while Fred graduated from the Ken-
tucky University. The daughter Elnora is a graduate of the Indian-
apolis Conservatory of Music. Mr. Decker is a member of the Benevo-
lent and Protective Order of Elks, and with. his family holds member-
ship in the Methodist Episcopal church. The Decker residence is main-
tained at 329 West Sixth street, one of the fine and substantial dwellings
of the city.
Edgar C. Smith. Now head of the grocery house of E. C. Smith &
Son at 212 North Harrison street in Alexandi'ia, Mr. Smith has been a
resident of this city for more than twenty years, and is a man whose
work has proved itself, so that he is now one of the prosperous mer-
chants and a citizen whose name and influence are regarded with esteem
in his commimity.
Edgar C. Smith was born in Spiceland, Indiana, August 14, 1870.
His paternal grandfather was Adam Smith, whose wife was Sarah (Hut-
ton) Smith, natives of Pennsylvania. Adam Smith was an early settler
in Wayne county, Indiana, and died at South Wabash, this state when
well advanced in years. He and his wife were the parents of three
children, Nora, Henry and Thomas. The maternal grandfather of the
Alexandria merchant was Benjamin Cosand, whose wife was Jane (Nich-
olson) Cosand. They were born in North Carolina, became early set-
tlers in Henry county, Indiana, where they died at a good old age. Their
four children were Elizabeth F. ; Eliza Jane; Laban E., and Elnora.
The parents of Edgar C. Smith were Thomas and Elizabeth F.
(Cosand) Smith, both born in Indiana. They were the parents of six
children, four of whom reached maturity, namely : Edgar C. ; Aaron T.,
of Newcastle, Indiana ; Indiana, wife of Clem Elliott, of Newcastle ; Omer,
at Decatur, Illinois; and Everett and Evan, both of whom died as chil-
dren. Thomas Smith, the father, was a carpenter by trade and spent
his early life in Wayne and Henry counties, dying in Newcastle in 1889
when forty-one years, three months and a few days old. His widow
now resides in Newcastle, and she is a member of the Christian church.
Edgar C. Smith spent his boyhood days in Newcastle, where he at-
tended the public schools. His first regiilar employment was in a box
factory at Marion, Indiana, and in Alexandria he learned the glass cut-
ters trade. That was his regular occupation for about ten years, but
since then he has been in the grocery trade. He came to Alexandria
November 9, 1890, and was a clerk in the Boston Store of this city,
until October 10, 1912. At that date he bought his present establish-
ment and has since enjoyed a profitable and increasing business.
On the sixteenth of December, 1891, he mart-ied Miss Sallie How-
ard, daughter of Samuel and Mary (Bailey) Howard. They have one
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 681
son, Thomas Samuel, uow associated with his father in the firm. Mrs.
Smith is a member of the Methodist church. Their residence is at 109
Park Avenue, where Mr. Smith built a comfortable home in 1899. Mrs.
Smith is a native of her home city, where her parents, who came from
North Carolina, were among the early settlers and are still residents
here. Her father was a soldier in the Civil war. The children in the
Howard family were Leander M., Nancy, Indiana, Catherine, Elsie,
and Sallie. Mr. Smith has always supported the Republican party,
and wherever possible has given his iuduence to promote good govern-
ment and the moral and civic welfare of his community.
Dee R. Jokes. The roster of representative men of Madison county
would be incomplete did it not include the name of Dee R. Jones, whose
high attainments at the Alexandria bar warrant more than passing
mention. A Hoosier by birth and training, he has spent his entire life
within the limits of the state, and his connection with a number of
important cases of legislation has given him a widespread reputation-
Mr. Jones was born near Florida, in Madison county, Indiana, November
30, 1871, and is a son of John L. and Sarah A. (Andes) Jones.
William Jones, the paternal grandfather of Dee R. Jones, was a
native of Virginia, as was his wife, who was a Miss Elizabeth Crow.
They became early settlers of Henry county, Indiana, and were farming
people there, subsequently moving to Madison county, where Mrs. Jones
died at the age of sixty-eight years, her husband surviving her for
some time and passing away when seventy-six years of age. They had a
family of six children -. Fauntleroy, John L., William, Mary Ann, Har-
riet and Elizabeth. John L. Jones was born in the Shenandoah Valley,
Virginia, was there reared and educated, and until nineteen years of
age was what was known as a "slave driver," being the overseer of a
gang of negro slaves on Virginia plantations. In 1849 he left his native
state on horse-back, joining the great gold rush to California that
occurred that year, and continued to engage in mining in the Golden
State until 1858, when he made a trip to China. Returning to Vir-
ginia in 1859, he found that his father and mother had moved to Henry
county, Indiana, during his absence, and accordingly, in the latter part
of the same year, came West to pay them a visit. Mr. Jones became
greatly impressed with the opportunities presented in this part of the
country, and this favorable impression caused him to purchase a tract
of eighty acres of land in Madison county, near Florida, to which he sub-
sequently added, by purchase, until he had in the neighborhood of 700
acres, all of which he placed in a high state of cultivation. While he
was successful in his operations, he had to work under the handicap of
a severe injury which he had received during the days when he worked
as a "forty-niner," and later he received a broken hip, from the effects
of which he died October 8, 1909, at the age of eighty-six years. He
became one of the prominent and influential men of his locality, and
was called upon by his fellow-citizens to fill places of trust and respon-
sibility, acting efficiently as county commissioner for one term and as
township trustee of Lafayette township for seventeen years.
John L Jones was twice married, his first union being with Sarah A.
Andes who was bom in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, and she died
December 4 1874, aged thirty-six years, in the faith of the Dunkard
Church Her father was Jonathan C. Andes and her mother Annie
(Rodeeap) Andes, natives of the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, who
682 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
came to Henry county, Indiana, during tlie early days, and later moved
to Holt county, Missouri, where the father died at the age of eighty-
one years, and the mother when seveuty-nine yeai's of age. They were
the parents of eight children : Susan jMiiler, William C, John, Elizabeth,
Nichols, Amanda Norman, Martha Norman, Mary Paxon and Sarah.
John L. and Sarah A. (Andes) Jones became the parents of tive children,
as follows: Harrison L., who makes his home near Linwood, Indiana;
Harriet F., who became ihe wife of Elmer Hughel, of near Florida,
Indiana; John W., who resides at Florida; Dee R., of this review; and
Walter A., who makes his home near WiUiams, Lawrence county, Indiana.
The second marriage of John L. Jones was to Sarah G. Lowmau, who
still survives him, and they became the parents of four children, namely :
Minnie F., who became the wife of John Ragan, of Cleveland, Ohio;
Bertha, who died at the age of eleven years, two days; Homer B., who
resides on the old home place near Florida, Indiana; and Dale C, also
living on the hoiuestead. The father of these children was a Hard
Shell Baptist iu his religious faith.
Dee R. Jones was reared to the occupation of agriculturist, and re-
ceived his early education in the district schools of his native vicinity
during the winter terms, while spending the summer months in the work
of the home farm. Subsequently, having decided upon a career other
than that of a farmer, he became a student in the DanviUe Normal
school, from which he was graduated iu the teaching and civil engi-
neering courses. After spending a term or so at the State University, he
began teaching school, and after three years, in 1898, entered the Indiana
Law school, at Indianapolis, where he was graduated in 1900.
In June of that year he was admitted to the bar, and at once entered
upon the practice of his profession at SummitviUe, Indiana. While
there he served acceptably as city attorney for five years, and was suc-
cessful in building up a lucrative practice, but in January, 1908, desir-
ing a wider field for his activities, came to Alexandria, where he has
since continued. Mr. Jones is recognized as one of the leading members
of his profession in this city, and as a man whose support has been given
to every movement making for progress and development. A Democrat
in his political affiliations, he has acted iu the capacity of city attor-
ney of Alexandria for three years, giving his fellow-citizens clean and
conscientious service. Both in and out of the profession he has many
friends here, and he is considered a worthy representative of one of
Indiana's old and honored families.
On October 17, 1903, Mr. Jones was united in marriage with Miss
Susan D. Trice, who was born in Van Buren township, Madison county,
Indiana, daughter of Tillman H. and Fannie Trice, natives of Maryland,
the latter of whom died on the Trice homestead farm in Van Buren
township, while the former is still living in advanced years. Mr. and
Mrs. Trice were the parents of two daughters: Lenore D. and Susan D.
Mr. and Mrs. Jones have had a son and a daughter : Alton L. and Vivian
L. Mrs. Jones is a member of the Christian Church, which her hus-
band supports. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks and the Improved Order of Red Men, but
while he appreciates the privileges of membership, has never cared for
official position.
Isaac S. Kelly. A native son and life-long resident of Alexandria,
and a member of one of Madison county's old and honored families.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 683
Isaac 8. Kully, cashier of the Alexandria Bank, is known as one of his
city's leading citizens and a man of influence in matters pertaining to
the hnancial welfare of liis coniniiinity. His career has been marked by
steady advancement, due to well-applied energy, perseverance aiid native
ability, and he is justly accounted a worthy representative of a name
that has ever stood for public-spirited citizenship and honorable business
dealing. Isaac S. Kellj- was bom December 1, 1873, in Alexandria,
Indiana, and is a son of JMarquis D. and Jeannette (Nicholson) Kelly.
Isaac Kelly, the paternal grandfather of Mr. Kelly, was a native of
Virginia and a pioneer of Madison county, where he was engaged in
farming at the time of his death, in November, 1873, when about sixty
years of age. He and his wife, who was also a native of Virginia, and
who passed away in middle life, were the parents of seven children:
Mrs. Hall; William G. ; Laura, the wife of William Davis; Marquis D. ;
Margaret E.. the wife of Joshua Gray ; Mary C., who married Conkling
Ross; and Joseph. The maternal gramlparents of Mr. Kelly were
natives of North Carolina, who came to Indiana at a very early day, in
true pioneer style in covered wagons, and settled in Hamilton county,
where they spent the remainder of their lives in tilling the soil. They
had the following children : Hiram, Young, James, Abel, Gabriel, Wiley,
William, Gideon, Harrison, John, Susanna, Mary, Lucinda, Jeannette
and Elizabeth. Marquis D. Kelly was born and reared in Madison
county, Indiana, and spent his lioyhood on his father's farm, there also
learning the trade of blacksmith, which he followed a few years. He
subsequently secured a farm of eighty acres in Monroe township, which
he brought to a high state of cultivation, and there reared his family.
At this time, he and his wife are living retired in Alexandria. They
are members of the Christian Church, and are widely known and highly
esteemed. Mr. and Mrs. Kelly had but two children : Isaac S. ; and
Adelia, who is the wife of A. A. Painter, of Alexandria.
Isaac S. Kelly was reared on his father's farm, and received his
education in the public and high schools of Alexandria, and a business
college at Anderson. He then became a bookkeeper in the office of
Peter Kuntz, a lumber merchant of Anderson, and two years later
came back to Alexandria,* to enter the Alexandria Bank as bookkeeper.
He later became assistant cashier of this institution, and for the past
four or five years has been cashier.
The Alexandria Bank was organized in 1888,, as a private banking
house, by Jesse Vermillion and his father, Columbus Vermillion. In
1892 it was reorganized as the Alexandria National Bank, with a
capital stock of $50,000. and S. E. Y'oung became its president.^ Six
years later it was taken over by the Alexandria Bank, with Mr. Y^oung
still in the chief executive capacity. The present ofi&cers are: S. G.
Phillips, president; R. H. Hannah, vice-president; and Isaac S. Kelly,
cashier. Its capitalization has been increased on several occasions as
the increased business has warranted, and it is known at this time as
one of the most substantial institutions of Madison county, as well as the
oldest in Alexandria.
On December 18, 1899, Mr. Kelly was married to Miss Mane Heri-
tage, who was born in Monroe township, Madison county, Indiana,
daughter of Henry and IMinerva (Hughes) Heritage, now residents of
Alexandria. Mr. and Mrs. Heritage had six children: Emrna, Flora,
William, Marie, Olive and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Heritage died
May 25, 1913,' aged sixty-nine years. Two children have been bom
684 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
to Mr. and Mrs. Kelly : Kathleen and Pauline. They are members of the
Baptist Church, in which Mr. Kelly acts as treasurer. He is a member
of the local lodges of the Knights of the Maccabees and the Royal
Arcanum, and holds membership also in Necessity Lodge, No. 222, the
Canton, the Encampment and the Rebekahs, all of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows. His political affiliation is with the Democratic
party. He takes a deep interest in everything pertaining to the public
welfare, and withholds his support from no object calculated to be of
public benefit.
GEdRGE Stohleb. One of the old and honored residents of Adams
township, whose' activities as agriculturist, thresher and sawmill operator
have gained him material success and a position of prominence among the
substantial men of his community, is George Stohler, the owner of 140
acres of well-cultivated land. While not a native of Madison county, Mr.
Stohler has resided here since he reached his eleventh year, and few
men of Adams township are more widely or favorably known. He was
born June 23, 1842, in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, and is a son of
Michael and Mary (Swanger) Stohler, also natives of Lebanon county.
The maternal great-grandfather of Mr. Stohler was a soldier during
the Revolutionary war, following the close of which he settled in Pena-
sylvania. He was a physical giant, and was noted far and wide for hia
great feats of strength. The parents of Mr. Stohler were married in
Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, and remained there until 1854, in which
year they migrated to Madison county, Indiana, and settled in Adams
township, here spending the remainder of their lives in agricultural pur-
suits. They were the parents of eleven children : John, a resident of
Adams township ; George, of this review ; Mary, who became the wife of
Harvey Fry; Michael, who is deceased; Catherine, who became the wife
of Adam Forney ; Sarah, who is deceased ; Elizabeth, who is the widow of
George Saunders; Anna, who is the wife of Isaac Monahan; Samuel, a
resident of Madison county and Abraham, who lives in Adams township.
George Stohler attended the German schools of his native vicinity in
Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, and was past eleven years of age when
he came to Adams township, here securing his education in the English
schools. The winter terms were devoted to his studies, while in the sum-
mer months he assisted his father in the work of the home farm. Mr.
Stohler continued to remain under the parental roof until his marriage,
at which time he emBarked upon a career of his own, and for a half
century has carried on agricultural pursuits, and at the same time has
engaged in threshing and operating a sawmill. He has been successful
in his ventures because of good management, business acumen and well-
directed effort, and among his neighbors and those who have had deal-
ings with him bears the reputation of a man of the highest integrity.
In the fall of 1863 Mr. Stohler was married (first) to Miss_ SophijT
Hick, who was born in Madison county, Indiana, and she died in 1887,
having been the mother of five children : Frank, John, Henry, Anna and
Walter, all of whom make their homes in Madison county. Mr. Stohler 's
second marriage occurred in April, 1889, when he was united with
Miss Margaret Osmon. She was bom in April, 1853, in Butler county,
Ohio, and was educated in the German schools of Ohio and the English
schools of Madison county, Indiana. They have had no r' ildren. Mr.
and Mrs. Stohler are consistent members of the Lutheran church of
New Columbus, in which he is deacon, trustee and treasurer. He votes
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 685
the Deinoeratic ticket, ami has always taken au active part in political
matters.
Byron L. Stephens. One of the most progressive representatives
of the younger generation in farming in Lafayette township is Mr.
Byron Stephens, who is the owner of two tracts of land. He began
his career with practically uo capital, and by good management and
thrift, finally secured enough to get started as an independent farmer,
and from that time has enjoyed substantial prosperity among the ablest
farmers in his part of Madison county.
ilr. Stephens is the son of Samuel and Amanda (Vandament)
Stephens. His father was also a native of this county and spent all
his life here, the larger part of it in Richland township, subsequently
moving to Lafayette township. During his early life he attended the
district schools and then engaged in farming. He was the father of
five children, three of whom are now deceased, namely : Leoto, deceased,
who married Walter Cooper, and her one child Fay is living with Mrs.
Amanda Stephens at Florida; Walter, deceased; Byron and Kenneth,
both living: and Harry, deceased. Kenneth married the daughter of
Barney Flannagan, residing in Anderson. Samuel Stephens died April
29, 1910.
Byron Stephens who is now the head of his family in this county
was born on the old home place September 20, 1877. He attained his
education in the country schools, and throughout the time while he was
going to school also worked on the home farm, so that he was well
eciuipped by practical experience for his life's work, about as soon as
he had completed his book education. He remained at home until he
was twenty-one years of age and contributed his labors to the manage-
ment of the farm and the support of the family. Since then he has
worked independently, and made enough to buy himself a first class
farm of his own. He is the owner of thirty acres of land and has an
interest in the home place, where he now resides. He was married on
January 25, 1898, to Miss Anna E. Chambers, daughter of Joseph
Chambers, the venerable citizen of Lafayette township, a sketch of
whom apptears on other pages of this work. Mr. and Mrs. Stephens are
the parents of four children, namely : Everette, Mary, Donna and Mar-
cus. Mr. and Mrs. Stephens have an attractive and comfortable home
and are rearing their children in an atmosphere of honor and high-
principled conduct. In politics Mr. Stephens is a Democrat, and he
and his family are members of the Methodist church.
George W. Kirk. Lying on the Madison Avenue road, about five
miles north of Anderson, is the Linwood Stock Farm, a tract belonging
to George W. Kirk, one of Lafayette township's most substantial and
progressive agriculturists. Mr. Kirk is well known to the citizens of
this township, having resided here all of his life with the exception of a
short period passed in the State of Texas, and at all times he has mani-
fested a commendable interest in whatever pertains to the welfare of
his locality. The general appearance of his property gives evidence
of the presence of thrift and industry in its management, and his ability
as a business man is widely recognized. Mr. Kirk was born in Lafayette
township, Madison county, Indiana, on the old Kirk homestead farm,
located near Florida, July 1, 1855, and is a son of William and Amanda
(Muse) Kirk. His father came to Madison county as a young man,
686 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
from Fleming county, Kentucky, making the journey in a wagon, and
here passed his entire subsequent career, being engaged in extensive
agricultural operations. There were eight children in the Kirk family :
Sylvester; George W. ; Mrs. Lavina E. Free; Dawson; Mrs. Alice Snow;
Nora, who is deceased ; Mrs. Ida Graham ; and Mrs. Cecelia Jones, now
deceased, who had four children, Mrs. Elissa Lestal, Gladys, Kenneth
and Ruth.
Mr. Kirk secured his education in the Keller and Free schools of
Lafayette township, the latter of which is now located on his home farm.
He remained under the parental roof until he was twenty-five years of
age, at which time he went to Texas, and there spent a short period
on a cattle range, where he received his introduction into the business
that he has made his life work. On his return, he purchased a farm
in Lafayette township, to which he added from time to time until it
now contains 280 acres. In addition, he has forty acres in Anderson
township and seventy-five acres in Pipe Creek township, all of this
property being highly cultivated and very valuable. He raises horses
and cattle, and has also been engaged for some years in breeding and
feeding mules for the home market, his stock finding a ready sale and
commanding high prices. His reputation among business men is that
of a thoroughly reliable dealer, and he has the full confidence and
esteem of his associates.
On April 8, 1885, Mr. Kirk was married to Miss Nora Tappan, and
they have had six children, namely : Hector B., who married- Sophrone
Hancock and.-kas one child, Helen; Greta E., a graduate of the high
school, who is' now engaged in teaching in the schools of Lafayette town-
ship ; John, who is in his third year at Purdue University, where he is
taking a course in civil engineering; Joseph, who married Myrtle
Paddock, and is managing the operations on one of his father's farms;
Georgia, who is attending the Anderson High school ; and WUliam Rus-
sell, who attends the district school. Mr. Kirk is essentially a business
man and has not cared for the struggles of the political arena, taking
only a good citizen 's interest in affairs that affect his community. Dur-
ing his long residence here he has formed an extensive acquaintance, in
which he has a wide circle of sincere friends.
Samuel Maag. A resident of Madison county for about twenty
years, Mr. Maag represents the class of which the farmer and substan-
tial citizen who has come into this county after many of the older
families have either retired or immigrated to newer fields, and who
through their fresh industry and management are effecting many notable
changes in agricultural methods and in the general prosperity of the
community. Mr. Maag is a self-made man, has owned all he possesses
by hard work and thrifty management, and is now prosperous and a
retired resident of Lafayette township.
Mr. Samuel Maag, who owns a farm of eighty acres of fine land on
the Florida and Anderson pike, about four miles northwest of Ander-
son was born March 10, 1859, in Zurich, Switzerland. His parents
were David and Marv Maag. The father was a dairy farmer m his
native country and also had a vineyard. In the year 1864 a friend of
the family living in California induced David Maag to bring his house-
hold to America. The family located at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The three
sons in the family were David S., John M. and Samuel. From Califor-
nia the father returned to Benton county, near Cedar Rapids, and soon
HISTORY OF aiADISON COUNTY 687
afterwards died there. A little laftr the mother also passed away and
thus the sons were left when young and soon scattered to different locali-
ties. Samuel ^Nlaag was only seven years old when his father died and
during the next ten years he remained in Benton county, Iowa, and
earned his living by working for other people, exerting his youthful
strength to the utmost, in order to earn shelter and food and such
opportunities for education as were offered occasionally. He lived for
some time with a man named John May, and then hired out his services
by the month. When he was seventeen years of age, with his brother
David, he rented a farm in Madison county, Iowa, and by working this
place with all the energy he possessed and with the combined assist-
ance of his brother, made a very comfortable living and put by some
savings for his capital. September the- 28th, 1879, he was married to
Clara Bell Kendall. By their combined industry they bought a piece
of land in 1882. and on this one hundred acres they commenced their
actual career. Though they were unable to pay for it all at the begin-
ning, they managed so that in a few years they had cleared off the debt
and were more than even with the world. That remained their home for
a number of years, when they finally sold out and came east to Indiana,
locating in Lafayette township of Madison county. Thej' bought their
present farm in this township on November 14, 1893, and have made
their home here for the past twenty years.
Mrs. Jlaag was the daughter of John H. and Orinda J. (Armstrong)
Kendall. Her father was a native of Madison county, Indiana, and
the Armstrong family came from Darke county, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs.
Maag are the parents of one daughter, Daisy M. She is the wife of Mr.
Wade Bevilhamar and lives near Florida in Lafayette township. They
have two sons, Samuel and Landas Adair.
At the present time Mr. Maag is renting his farm to a tenant and
himself lives a retired life in the home place. He is a member of the
Methodist church at Florida and for the past fourteen years has taken
a very active part in the Sunday school as superintendent, and is also
a steward and trustee of his local church. A public spirited citizen
and a substantial business man he has been honored by being appointed
to the office of trustee of Lafayette township, to fill the unexpired term
of Calvin Thompson, deceased. At the time of his appointment the
township was in debt $6,320, which was all paid before his term expired,
leaving the township out of debt.
Elmer E. Hughel. Among the native sons of Madison county who
are following in the footsteps of their forefathers and finding success
in the cultivation of the rich soil of this section, Elmer E. Hughel takes
prominent place. As a young man he was inclined to experiment with
other kinds of labor, but after a short period decided that the occupa-
tion of agriculturist should be his life work, and he now has no reason
to regret of his decision for his farm of eighty acres, located about
one-half mile south of Florida, in Lafayette township, is one of the
valuable properties of this section, and he holds prestige among the
farmers and stock raisers of this part of the Hoosier State.
Elmer E. Hughel was born on his father's farm in Anderson town-
ship, Madison county, Indiana, April 3, 1862, and is a son of Matthias
B. and Hettie (Stephenson) Hughel. His father, a native of Ohio,
migrated to I\Iadison county as a young man, and purchased a farm in
Anderson township, where he has spent his subsequent career, being
688 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
one of the prominent agriculturists of his section and still surviving at
the advanced age of eighty-six years. He is the owner of the ground
which was occupied by a Moravion mission in the times when the
Indians were here. A monument has been erected by the Daughters
of the American Revolution to mark this place. (Spoken of in gen-
eral history of the county.) There were eleven children in the family
of Matthias B. and Hettie Hughel, namely: Alonzo and Samuel, resi-
dents of Anderson township ; Elmer E. ; Grant, who also carries on
operations in Anderson township ; Clarence, who lives in Indianapolis ;
Jennie, who married A. Malone; BeUe, who became the wife of E.
Moore ;' Lydia, who married A. T. Gillespie ; and Florence, Minnie and
George, all of whom are now deceased.
Elmer E. Hughel was given- good educational advantages, attending
the district schools in Anderson township and the high school in the
city of Anderson. During this time he had spent his vacations in work
on the homestead, where he was thoroughly trained in farm labor, but
decided to try his fortunes in the commercial field, and for two years,
from 1908 to 1910, was in the hardware business. Following this, he
went West, but soon returned to his home. At that time Mr. Hughel
came to his present property, in Lafayette township, which has been
brought to a high state of cultivation. He is quick to adopt modern
ideas and methods, having the latest improved machinery and modern
buildings, the latter including a ten-room bungalow, one of the finest
in the country, fitted with such modern conveniences as hot and cold
water, bath and electric light plant.
In November, 1887, Mr. Hughel was united in marriage with Miss
Harriet Jones, daughtar of John L. and Sarah (Andes) Jones, and to
this union there has been born one daughter: Lena, who lives at home
with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Hughel and their daughter are mem-
bers of the Christian Church, and have been active in its work. Mr.
Hughel has gained a wide acquaintance during his long residence in
Lafayette township, and has become known among his friends as a man
of sterling character, honorable in his business dealings and sincere and
faithful in his friendships. As a public-spirited citizen, he has sup-
ported all movements calculated to advance his section, and no resident
of Lafayette township has the welfare of his community and its people
more at heart.
Charles W. Moore. Success has been worthily attained hy Charles
W. Moore, of Lafayette township, in the field of agriculture, and to
his energy, enterprise, careful management and ceaseless determination
this is attributable. He has resided all of his life in this section, and
is now the manager of the Moore farm, a tract of ninety-eight acres of
well-cultivated land, lying on the Florida turnpike, about two and
one-half miles north of Anderson. Mr. Moore was born Februarj' 8,
1873, on the old Barber farm in Lafayette township, and is a son of
James L. and Lucinda (Huff) Moore. His father, a native of Penn-
sylvania, lived for many years near Middletown, Indiana, where he
carried on agricultural pursuits, but is now livirtg a retired life, enjoy-
ing the fruits of years of industrious toil. He and his wife had two
children: Mattie Mae and Charles W. ^- ,.
Charles W. Moore secured his education hi the Mount Hope public
school, and as a youth proved himself industrious and energetic by
spending all of his" spare time in assisting his father in the work of the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 689
home place. When the older ma'h was ready for retirement he placed
the youth in charge of the homestead, having trained him to ably
handle the management, and under the younger man's care the prop-
erty has been ably operated. As time has passed, and his finances have
permitted, Mr. Moore has made improvements and added to his stock
and implements. He is an advocate of modern ideas, keeps abreast of
the numerous advances which are constantly being made in his calling,
and in his neighborhood is known as a good, practical farmer and ex-
cellent judge of livestock. His long residence in this section hfia given
him a wide acquaintance, and his numerous friends testify to his gen-
eral popularity.
On June 14, 1899, Mr. Moore was united in marriage with Miss Bes-
sie Thornberg, whose father, Kiohard Thornberg was born and reared
in this county and speiit his entire career in tilling the soil. There
were five children in the Thornberg family : Charles, Ray, Thomas, Bes-
sie and Nellie. Mr. and Mrs. Moore have had six children : Lucille, Ray-
mond, Mildred, Mary Belle, Howard and Charles L. The members of
the family attend the Methodist Episcopal Church.
(Ilenden Brown. Perhaps at no time in the history of the country
have the advantages of farm life been so generally acknowledged as
at the present. Every student of present day conditions must notice
how men in all lines of industry in the crowded marts of trade, are
turning their longing eyes to sections where land may be secured, believ-
ing that in a return to the soil happiness, health and contentment wiU
return to them and that their children may have a birthright of pure
air and freedom. Commendable as this may be, these seekers for rural
possessions and the healthful surroundings of the country, do not
always succeed and for the very natural reason that farming is both
a profession and a trade, a business which demands as much and as
thorough a preparation as any other. Therefore the greatest advantage
lies with those who have been fortunate enough to have been bom and
reared on a farm, trained in its various industries and whose greatest
interests have always been centered on it. One who has had these
favorable opportunities is. Glenden Brown, a general farmer and stock-
raiser, residing in Lafayette township. Mr. Brown was born June 27,
1870, on his father's farm in Shelby county, Indiana, and is a son of
George W. and Margaret L. (McKay) Brown. George W. Brown is a
retired farmer residing at Frankton in Madison county. He has always
been a man of public spirit and continues active in political mattei-s.
Eight children were born to George W. and Margaret L. Brown:
James C, Eliza, Glenden, William, George, Rocella, Elmer and Arvilla,
all of whom survive except the eldest.
Glenden Brown was fourteen years old when he accompanied his
parents to Madison county, having previously attended school in
Shelby county, and afterward became a student at Beech Grove, in
Madison county. Although he then put his school books aside he by no
means considered his education completed and has continued to be in-
telligently interested in everything that is going on in the world and
thus has become a man thoroughly qualified for public oflSce should he
care to accept the same and to give sensible and valuable advice on mat-
ters of local importance. He cultivates his own farm of sixty-three
acres and also a farm of eighty acres belonging to his brother. This
690 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
land lies in Lafayette township and is well adapted to the activities
here carried on, grain and potatoes being grown and fine stock raised.
Mr. Brown married Miss Maggie Davis and they had two children
bom to them, Dicie and Ernie, who survive their mother. Mr. Brown
married for his second wife December 2, 1902, Effie G. Wagner,
the eldest daughter of Franklin and Rachel (Jones) Wagner, residents
of Rush county, Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner had a family of four
children : EfSe, Pearl, May and Inez, all surviving. Mr. and ilrs. Brown
have three children : Verle, Dorothy and Nondas. With his intelligent
views Mr. Brown is a hearty supporter of the public schools and wil-
lingly assists in all movements for the general welfare of his section.
He is an example of the best citizenship of Madison county.
Arthur H. Jones. Beginning practice in Madison county nearly
twenty years ago, and having since attained a successful and influential
position as a lawyer, Mr. Jones in recent years has probably become best
known in the insurance and fraternal field. He is president of the Liberal
Life Assurance Company at Anderson, and has taken a very prominent
part in insurance and fraternal movements in the state and nation.
Arthur H. Jones was born in Franklin county, Indiana, on April 27,
1873. His paternal grandfather, Abraham Jones, was one of the first
settlers in Franklin county. The father, Philip T. Jones, was born in
Franklin county, and married Miss Lydia Goff, also a native of that
county.
Reared in the vicinity of his birth, where he obtained his first school-
ing in the public schools, Arthur H. Jones completed his literary educa-
tion in Miami University at Oxford, Ohio, and then entered the Cin-
cinnati Law College where he was graduated as a Bachelor of Laws. He
began his practice in Summitville, in Madison county, on the first day of
October, 1894. He had his office at that place for four years and there
built up a good practice, becoming well known as one of the rising attor-
neys of the county. He next located at Alexandria, where he was engaged
in practice for six years, and from there he moved to the county seat at
Anderson, and had his office in this city for two j-ears. From Anderson
Mr. Jones moved to Indianapolis and was engaged in the general prac-
tice of law in that city up to 1910. He had become, in the meantime, inter-
ested in fraternal organizations and in 1910 was chosen Supreme Dictator
of the Supreme Lodge of the World, Loyal Order of Moose. In August,
1912, Mr. Jones was elected president and general counsel for the Liberal
Life Assurance Company, the main offices of which are located at
Anderson.
Besides his chief executive offices for this insurance company, Mr.
Jones is president and general counsel for the Travelers Insurance
Machine Company, is president and general counsel of the Machine Sales
Company, and is general counsel for the Roller Electric Company. He is
also general counsel for the Supreme Lodge of the World, Loyal Order of
Moose, and is general counsel for the State Investment Company. He
takes much interest in all the fraternal orders and is a wide awake, public
spirited citizen and a liberal contributor to all enterprises launched for
the general good of the community. In politics he is a Democrat and has
served a number of times as delegate to the county and state conventions.
In 1894 Mr. Jones married Daisy C. Bake, of College Corner, Ohio.
Mrs. Jones died in 1908, leaving one son and one daughter, — Harry L.,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 691
who is a student in the State University at Bloomington, Indiana, and
Nellie E., now attending the high school of this city.
On June 26, 1913, iMr. Jones was married to Mrs. Maude Gartner, of
New Orleans, Louisiana.
Etta Charles, M. D. The success and efficiency of women in the
field of medicine are too well established to require any comment. While
woman physicians are not numerous in any one community, they are
usually regarded as among the ablest and most successful in the field
of local practice, and in Madison county the few who are identified with
this profession are no exception to the rule. At Alexandria, Dr. Etta
Charles is enjoying a large and growing practice and competes on
equal terms with her brothers in the profession. Dr. Charles is the
daughter of a former well known physician in this part of Indiana, and
she also has a sister in the profession.
Etta Charles was born in Grant county, Indiana, daughter of Henry
and Olive A. (Jackson) Charles. Dr. Henry Charles came from Wayne
county, Indiana, where he was born, and was a son of Samuel and Sarah
(Hill) Charles. Grandfather Samuel Charles was a planter and a man
of large aft'airs in North Carolina, having come to Indiana in the early
days and entered land, the patent to which was signed by President
Andrew Jackson. Dr. Henry Charles attended the common schools in
Grant county, was a school teacher, took a classical course at Earlham
College at Richmond, and afterwards graduated from the Indiana Medi-
cal College. He was first engaged in practice at Fairmount, and after-
wards at Carthage, in Rush county. Later he niove«l west for his health,
and died and was buried in Kansas. The mother was buried in Deer
Creek cemetery in Grant county.
Etta Charles attended the common schools at Fairmount, where
she spent most of her girlhood, and was a student for two years in the
high school. After that she kept house for her father several years,
and was engaged in teaching. Her medical studies were pursued and
completed in the St. Louis Women's Medical College, a three-year
course. She also had been tutored in medidne under her sister Dr.
Olive Wilson, who was in practice at Paragould, Arkansas. Dr. Etta
Charles belongs to the Madison County and State Medical Societies, and
is secretary and treasurer of the County Society at this time. She
affiliates with the Rebekah Lodge of Odd Fellows and the Indiana State
Medical Society and the American Medical Association. The Doctor
and her sister have recently opened an office in Alexandria, at 301
Lincoln Avenue, where they attend to their practice, they having bought
the property at this location.
Dr. Olive Wilson is a graduate of the Northwestern University,
Chicago, and is now practicing with her sister. Both have contributed
to the Medical Literary and are in good standing with the medical
profession.
Joseph David Rodecap. In the death of the late Joseph David
Rodecap, which occurred July 26, 1906, Madison county lost a citizen
who had long been prominently identified with its agricultural inter-
ests, and whose activities as a public-spirited citizen were such as to
add to the prestige of his section. Although not born in this county,
he was brought here when still an infant, and his entire active career
was spent wfthin its boundaries. Mr. Rodecap was born February 22,
692 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
1865, in Rockinghain county, Virginia, a son of Henry and Lydia
(Myers) Rodecap.
The Rodecap family was founded in Indiana by Henry Rodecap,
who was bom in Rockingham county, Virginia, and in early manhood
moved to Henry county, Indiana, subsequently taking, his wife and
children to Macfison county, where he settled on a farm near Florida,
which became known as the old Rodecap home place. He spent the
remainder of his life in agricultural pursuits, and became well and
favorably known in his community as a man of upright habits and
much business ability. He and his wife were the parents of nine chil-
dren, as follows: Benjamin F., who is deceased; Joseph David; Peter,
deceased; Emanuel, deceased; Barbara, deceased; Elizabeth Beeson,
wife of Frank Beeson; Mrs. Frances Sisco; Mrs. Mary Range; and
Katie, who is deceased.
As before mentioned, Joseph D. Rodecap was but a babe when he
was brought to Madison county, and here his education was secured in
the Elm Grove district school, which he attended during the winter
terms, his summer months being spent in work on the old home place.
He was thoroughly trained in farming work, and was taught to respect
and appreciate the value of hard, industrious ' labor. On attaining
manhood, he embarked in farming on his own account, subsequently
becoming the possessor of several valuable farms and eventually set-
tling on a tract of eighty acres lying on the Elm Grove turnpike, where
he was carrying on operations at the time of his demise. Since that
time his family has resided on the same farm. Mr. Rodecap was a
good, practical farmer, ever ready to embrace new ideas and methods,
and his activities in the various branches of farming proved uniformly
successful. He took a pride in the progress made by his community and
by his associates was looked to for advice, counsel and leadership. An
upright man, of honorable principles and a strong sense of right and
wrong, he at all times held the confidence of those with whom he had
transactions of any kind, while his personal character was such that
many were proud to call him friend.
On December 16, 1876, Mr. Rodecap was united in marriage with
Miss Elda Free, daughter of Jesse and Mary (MacLean) Free, who
came from Bainbridge, Ross county, Ohio, and seven children were
born to this union : Joseph Franklin, who married Alice Lukens, and
has one child, Herbert A. ; Jesse, who married Georgie Thompson, and
has one. child, Agnes; Lillian; Elmer, who was married to Bertha
Schlegel, on September 1st, 1913 : Ellsworth who was married to Hor-
tense Lukens, on September 17, 1913 ; Benjamin, who was married on
February 4, 1913, to Anna M. Bamer, of St. Francisville, Illinois, and
they have one child, Elizabeth Marie, born October 29, 1913 ; and
Bertha. Benjamin is conducting the home farm, and is a graduate of
the Anderson township schools, class of 1906. He is a member of the
local lodge of the Improved Order of Red Men. The members of the
family belong to the Methodist Episcopal church, in which they have
many friends.
Ross EsHELMANN. One of the stanch and reliable business con-
cerns of Anderson is the firm of David Eshelmann & Son, of which
Ross W. Eshelmann of this review is one of the members. This firm
was organized some years ago, and was the result of years of associa-
tion of the son with his father in the work, during which time he
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 693
gained a thorough knowledge of the uuo licas, and proved himseu fit
to be the partner and business associate of the elder gentleman.
Bom in Richland township, Madison county, Indiana, near the
town of Prosperity, on March 3, 1878, Ross W. Eshelmann is the son
of David and Charity (Scott) Eshelmann. The boy was given his
early educational training in the village school of his cofumunity and
later attended the Anderson high school, where he employed well his
time and emerged with a training in advance of that of most of thje
youth of his day. From the high school he joined his father in the
building work which the father had been carrying on for years in
Anderson and vicinity, and has continued with him to the present time.
They have carried on a thriving enterprise in the building field for
some years. Many fine dwellings, schools and business blocks have been
reared under their master hand, as well as caiTying on a considerable
work on local churches and in neighboring towns. Mr. Eshelmann is
undeniably a skilled workman and a thorough master of the builders
craft. A few years ago he joined his father in a business partnership,
and they conduct business under the firm style of David Eshelmann &
Son, their union going to make up one of the strongest firms of its
kind in the city. They built the Graimmar School building, of recent
erection, the Loan building, known to be one of the finest business
blocks in this section of the state, as well as participating in the work
on the Anderson Water Works Filtering Plant, and others of equal
importance. They have, on the whole, been active and prominent in
the building life of the city, and have contributed no small amount to
the growth of the community in their way.
In 1900 Mr. Eshelmann married Miss Blanche E. Branson of Afider-
son, a daughter of William and Elizabeth' (Hurst) Branson, who set-
tled in Anderson about ten years prior to the marriage of Mr. and Mra.
Eshelmann. To this union four children have come: Paul A., Fred-
erick R., Elizabeth and Harriett.
Mr. Eshelmann is a Mason of high degree, with afiiliations In Fel-
lowship Lodge, No. 681, A. F. & A. M., Anderson Chapter, No. 52, R.
A. M., and Anderson, Commandery, No. 32, Knights Templar. The
family home, a fine and substantial residence thoroughly modern in all
its appointments, is located on the comer of Sixth street and Madison
avenue, and here much of the social life of their circle is enacted. The
family are well known in the city and have a high place in the esteem
and regard of all who share in their acquaintance.
B. F. Fesleb. Madison county is fortunate in the possession of a
large number of enterprising and successful farmers, and in spite of the
fact that it is an increasing industrial county, its farms and farm
products will always share largely in the total resources of the locality.
Among the farmers whose careers have been marked with success and
prosperity, and with progressive development is that of Mr. B. F. Fesler
of Pipe Creek township, whose splendid country estate of two hundred
acres is located on the C. C. Mays road. His home is on the rural deliv-
ery out of Frankton.
Mr. Fesler was born in 1853, in New Columbus. His parents were
David and Elizabeth (Landis) Fesler. David Fesler, the father, came
from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and by trade was a stone mason
and plasterer. He subsequently engaged in farming, and at his death
his body was laid to rest in the Siller cemetery at Frankton. The
694 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
mother is also now deceased. The seven children in the family were
Rebecca A. Abbott; John A.; William G., of Elwood; Marcy C, now
Mrs. Silvery ; B. F. ; and Laura, who married a Mr. Btehisou, and is now
deceased.
B. F. Fesler was educated partly in the schools of New Columbus
and finished in the Bramiock school in Pipe Creek township. As a boy
he worked on a farm, and there learned the practical details of the busi-
ness which he has followed nearly all his life. When he began for
himself it was as a renter, and by industry and thrift, as well as by good
management, he finally saved enough to buy a small piece of laud, con-
sisting of forty acres, and used that as the nucleus for building up a
substantial prosperity. He finally traded his original farm, and then
bought his present place.
On February 15, 1879, Mr. Fesler married Miss Ida J. Campbell,
daughter of Thomas Jefferson and Sarah (Thurston) Campbell. Iler
father came from the vicinity of Eaton, Ohio ; was a farmer, and located
in Madison county many years ago. The two children in the Campbell
family were Mrs. Fesler and William 0., a resident of Muncie, Indiana.
Mr. and Mrs. Fesler are the parents of eight children, who are mentioned
as follows: Dora, who married Lester Johnson, and their four children
are Floy, Vernice, Hadie, and Hubert; Delia, wife of Charles Gooding,
and their children are: Gladys, Opal, Roy and Theodora; William,
who married Ida Etchison, and has one child Retta ; Bertram A., who
married Nellie Ebert, and has two children, Marjorie and David; Wal-
ter, who married Edith Ferguson, and has one son Benjamia ; Frank,
at home ; Raymond, who has practical charge of the farm ; and Katie
R., who is in high school at Frankton. Mr. Fesler has always been an
active Democrat and has at various times taken much iuterest in party
affairs. He and his family worship in the Christian church at Frankton.
Frank Behymer. The present trustee of Pipe Creek township is
Frank Behymer, a member of one of the old and prominent families of
Madison county, and a man who has given long and faithful service to
his community, not only in his present office but as an educator, having
discharged the responsibilities of a teacher of the young in Madison
county for the long period of a third of a century.
Frank Behymer was born in Rush county, Indiana, in 1 857, and is a
son of William and Martha (Littleton) Behymer, the former a native
of Gerard county, Kentucky, and the latter of Clermont county, Ohio.
On the father's side the grandfather was Solomon Behymer, who with
his wife was a native of Virginia. The five children of Solomon and
wife were Samuel, John, Lucy Brown, William and Joseph. The Lit-
tletons on the mother's side were natives of Pennsylvania, grandfather
Littleton having been a farmer, and an early settler of Clermont county,
Ohio, where he died a comparatively young man.
William Behymer, the father, was reared on a farm in Kentucky,
and when a boy moved into Ohio, where he learned the trade of cooper,
and was for some time also engaged in the occupation of running rafts
and barges down the Ohio river in the river trafBc. He subsequently
moved to Rush county, Indiana, where he became a farmer, and also
did some coopering, making barrels for the use of his neighbors. After
nine years' residence in Rush county, he moved to Grant county, locating
near Rigdon, where he spent the remainder of his years. During the
Civil war he enlisted and saw three years of arduous service and the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 695
wounds and exposures which wrrc part of his war experience undoubt-
edly abbreviated his life. His death occurred in 1890 when sixty-eight
years old. He was a very popular member of his eounnunity and was
elected and served as constable of his township in Grant county for six
or seven years after tlie war. He was then elected a justice of the peace
anil served for four years in Greene township. Tin- faiuil.^ were meiu-
liers of the .Methodist church. The mother is still livinu; and is now
eighty-seven years of age. Tlie eleven children in their family arc noted
as follows: The fli"st born died in infancy; ^lary Jane, wife of Jacob
Hiatt of Rigdon : Perry, a lawyer at Ordwa\ . Colorado; Andrew J., a
well known lawyer and former newspaper man of Elwood. and Rebecca
A., wife of J. L. Xewkirk of Sexton, Indiana; John 0.. of Tipton,
editor of the Tipton Times: Franklin Pierce, the innnediate subject of
this sketch; "William H. of Rigdon; Christopher R.. who lives near Fair-
mount, Indiana: Euuna, deceased, former wife of Alfred Corbiii; and
Melvina, wife of Lee Jones.
Frank Behymer grew up and was educated in Duck (!reek town-
ship, and early in his career fornuilated his ambitions for work in edu-
cation. In preparation for this vocation he studied at the Xalional Nor-
mal Universit.v in Lebanon, Ohio. In the meantime he emplo.vod him-
self at any honorable occupation in order to make a living and to further
his education and finally began teaching in the schools of Madison
county, a calling which he has successfully followed for thirty-three
years. His work as a teacher and his standing as a citizen commended
him to the ]ieople of Pipe Creek township, and in 1913 he was elected
trustee of the township, and in this capacity has given an efficient
administration of the various important duties entrust(Ml to that office.
On April 3. 1895, Mr. Behymer married :\Iiss Tippie B. Harshman,
a daughter of IMartin V. and Amanda (Sherer) Harshman. Mr. and
Mrs. Behymer are the parents of two children: Herbert is a student in
the high school, and Harold is a student in the grammar school of
Elwood. The family attend the Christian church.
^VILLIAM T. RiCH.\RDS. It is probably in connection with fraternal
work that "William T. Richards is best known to the citizens of Ander-
son. Indiana, although he has also been prominent in public life as audi-
tor of Madison county, as well as in business circles. During the past
several years, however, he has devoted his attention almost exclusively
to fraternal work, and a.s national organi/.er of the Camels of the "Worhl
is widely known through this and other states. Mr. Richards was born
in "Washington countv. Indiaim, upon a farm, October 23, 186.'), and is
a son of Daniel S. and ?:mma S. (Fields) Richards, the former a native
of South Carolina and the latter of Scott county. Indiana. Both are
now living in the city of Indianapolis. Daniel S. Richards was for some
years a farmer in Washington county, later turning his attention to
<?ontraet work in street paving, sewer-building, etc., being so engaged
until he became connected with the Indianapolis Police Department.
For thirty-six >ears he served as a police official of the Indianapolis
capital, and is now retired on a pension.
"William T. Richards received his education in the public and high
schools of Indianapolis, whence he had been taken as a child. On leav-
ing school he received his introduction to business life as a clerk in the
wholesale drv goods and notion store of Brazen & Connell Company.
His faithful' and efficient discharge of the duties of his position won
696 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
him a traveling salesmanship, and in that capacity he continued to act
for eight years. At the end of this period, .Mr. Richards established
himself in business on his own account, operating a general store until
1889, when he came to Anderson to enter the employ of the Columbia
Encaustic Tile Works (now known as the National Encaustic Tile Com-
pany), as superintendent, a position which he continued to hold for
fifteen years. Mr. Richards had ever been a stanch supporter of repub-
lican principles and an active worker in the ranks of the party, having
for some time served as chairman of the republican central committee,
and in 1907 he became his party's candidate for the office of county
auditor. He was subsequently elected and during his term gave his
fellow-citizens an excellent administration. When he left office, he
began work as an organizer for fraternal societies, and as his eminent
abilities along this line of endeavor became recognized he was called
upon to perform work of a more responsible nature, until he was finally
made national organizer of the Camels of the World, a position which
calls him not only to various points in Indiana but to many of the other
States. It is but natural that he should have formed a wide acquaint-
ance, and the universal esteem in which he is held is eloquent evidence
of the confidence he has inspired in those who know him. He is a
member of Anderson Lodge No. 746, Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows, and of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and in the
latter has taken more than ordinary interest, having served as exalted
ruler of his lodge. His .modern home is located at No. 2104 South
Meridian Street.
In 1903 Mr. Richards was united in marriage with Miss Lillian B.
Mcintosh, of Franklin county, Indiana, daughter of Alfred and Mary
Jane Mcintosh. To this union there has come one daughter. Miss Lillith
M., who is a graduate of the Anderson High school.
Charles C. JDehoeity. Few citizens of Madison county have been
more intimately or extensively connected with the business and finan-
cial interests of this section, and with its public and social life, than
has Charles C. Dehority, cashier of the Elwood State Bank, at Elwood,
a citizen whose varied combination of business enterprises has given him
standing in the marts of commerce and trade, whose keenness of per-
ception and sound judgment have made him a leader in banking circles,
and whose capacity and executive ability have brought him to the front
as a political leader of strength and influence. Mr. Dehority is a native
of Elwood, and was born August 18, 1870, a son of John W. and Jane
(Moore) Dehority.
Dr. James M. Dehority, the paternal grandfather of Charles C.
Dehority, was born in the state of Delaware, and married Susannah
Huffman, a Southern lady. They were pioneers of Madison county,
settling first near Perkinsville, and later coming to Elwood, when this
place was still known as Quincy. Dr. Dehority was a minister and
physician, and one of the earliest practitioners of medicine in the county,
and was later in the drug business and the general merchandise trade.
He was a man of decidedly versatile talents, was able to make a success
out of whatever venture he entered, and when he passed away, in
advanced years, was one of his section's substantial and highly esteemed
men. His wife passed away when eighty-three years old, having been
the mother of two children: John W. and James H. The maternal
grandfather of Mr. Dehority was Thomas Moore. They were pioneers
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 695
wouuds and exposures which were part of his war experience undoubt-
edly abbreviated his life. His death occurred in 1890 when sixty-eight
years old. He was a verj' popular member of his community and was
elected and served as constable of his township in Grant county for six
or seven years after the war. He was then elected a justice of the peace
and served for four years in Greene towTiship. The family were mem-
bers of the ilethodist church. The mother is still living and is now
eighty-seven years of age. The eleven children in their family are noted
as follows: The first born died in infancy; Mary Jane, wife of Jacob
Hiatt of Rigdon ; Perry, a lawyer at Ordway, Colorado ; Andrew J., a
well known lawyer and former newspaper man of Elwood, and Rebecca
A., wife of J. L. Newkirk of Sexton, Indiana; John 0., of Tipton,
editor of the Tipton Times; Franklin Pierce, the immediate subject of
this sketch ; William H. of Rigdon ; Christopher R., who lives near Fair-
mount, Indiana; Enuna, deceased, former wife of Alfred Corbin ; and
Melvina, wife of Lee Jones.
Frank Behymer grew up and was educated in Duck Creek town-
ship, and early in his career formulated his ambitions for work in edu-
cation. In preparation for this vocation he studied at the National Nor-
mal University in Lebanon, Ohio. In the meantime he employed him-
self at any honorable occupation in order to make a living and to further
his education and finally began teaching in the schools of Madison
county, a calling which he has successfully followed for thirty-three
years. His work as a teacher and his standijig as a citizen commended
him to the people of Pipe Creek township, and in .1913 he was elected
trustee of the township, and in this capacity has given an efiBcient
administration of the various important duties entrusted.to that-office.
On April 3, 1895, Mr. Behymer married Miss Tippie B. Harshman,
a daughter of Martin V. and Amanda (Sherer) Harshman. Mr. and
Mrs. Behymer are the parents of two children : Herbert is a student in
the high "school, and Harold is a student in the grammar school of
Elwood. The family attend the Christian church.
William T. Richards. It is probably in connection with fraternal
work that William T. Richards is best known to the citizens of Ander-
son, Indiana, although he has also been prominent in public life as audi-
tor of Madison county, as well as in business circles. During the past
several years, however, he has devoted his attention almost exclusively
to fraternal work, and as national organizer of the Camels of the World
is widely known through this and other states. Mr. Richards was born
in Washington county, Indiana, upon a farm, October 23, 1865, and is
a son of Daniel S. and Emma S. (Fields) Richards, the former a native
of South Carolina and the latter of Scott county, Indiana. Both are
now living in the city of Indianapolis. Daniel S. Richards was for some
years a farmer in Washington county, later turning his attention to
contract work in street paving, sewer-building, etc., being so engaged
until he became connected with the Indianapolis Police Department
For thirty-six years he served as a police official of the Indianapolis
capital, and is now retired on a pension. , v,- i,
William T Richards received his education in the public and hign
schools of Indianapolis, whence he had been taken as a child On leav-
ing school he received his introduction to business life as a clerk in the
wholesale dry goods and notion store of Brazen & Connell Company.
His faithful' and efficient discharge of the duties of his position won
698 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
in religious and social circles of Elwood. Her husband is a thirty-second
degree, Scottish Rite Mason, belonging to Quiney Lodge No. 230, F. &
A. M. ; Elwood Chapter, No. 109, R. A. M. ; Anderson Commandery No.
32, K. T., Indianapolis Consistory, R. & S. M., and Murat Temple, A. A.
0. N. M. S. He also holds membership in Elwood Lodge, Knights of
Pythias, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. A stanch
Democrat in his political views, Mr. Dehority was a delegate to the
National Convention of his party at Denver, in 1908, and also attended
the St. Louis and Baltimore conventions. He was chairman of the
Democratic County Central Committee for one term, and in addition
to acting in the capacity of county treasurer, as before stated, has been
police commissioner. He has rendered signal services both to his party
and to his community and his public career has been as free from
blemish and as marked by fidelity to duty and high principles as has
his business and private life.
Andrew J. Behymer. Of the history of Elwood from the beginning
of the era of natural gas, one of the most conspicuous and sole factors
was Mr. Behymer, at that time publisher of the only newspp^per in the
town, and during the succeeding twenty odd years a public spirited and
energetic citizen, and the leading member of the local bar.
Mr. Behymer moved from Tipton to Elwood in 1889, and bought aud
began the publication of the Elwood Free Press. He also bought the
Democrat and consolidated them and then conducted the one paper as
the only journal in Elwood. He quickly built up a large circulation
and an inHuential place for his journal, and made it an organ for the
support and expression of Democratic opinion. Natural gas had been
struck in this section before his arrival in Elwood, and on account of
the wonderful supply the opportunities were presented for the develop-
ment of a great industrial city at Elwood. The development of such a
city depended upon the initiative and enterprise and local citizens, and
Mr. Behymer through his paper was especially active and prominent in
advocating the advantages of the locality and the necessity of the citizens
taking hold and securing factories and other industries for their local-
ity. His paper practically led the boom which transformed Elwood
from a quiet rural community into one of the flourishing industrial cen-
ters of eastern Indiana. Among other movements to which 'he gave his
influence and efforts during that time was the organization of a board
of trade, and he served for three years as one of the active members of
the board.
Andrew J. Behymer was born at Mount Holly, Ohio, March 1, 1850.
His parents -were William and Martha (Littleton) Behymer, the for-
mer a native of Garrard county, Kentucky, and the latter of Clermont
county, Ohio. On the father's side the grandfather was Solomon Behy-
mer, and he and his vrife were both natives of Virginia and lived to old
age. Their five children were Samuel, John, Lucy Brovni, William and
Joseph. On the mother's side the Littletons were natives of Pennsyl-
vania, the grandfather being a farmer and becoming an early settler in
Clermont county, Ohio, where he died a comparatively young man.
The only child in the Littleton family was Martha who subsequently
became Mrs. Behymer.
William Behymer, the father, was reared on a farm in Kentucky,
and when a boy moved into Ohio, where he learned the trade of cooper
and for some time was also engaged in the occupation of running rafts
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 699
and barges dowu the Ohio river in the river traffic. His father, Solomon
B., had settled near Mount Holly, and it was in that vicinity that he
grew to manhood. He subsequently went to Rush county, Indiana,
where he became a farmer and also did some coopering making barrels
for the use of his neighbors. After nine years residence in Rush county
he moved to Grant county, locating near Rigdon where he spent the
remainder of his years. During the Civil war he enlisted and saw three
years of arduous service and the wounds and exposures which were part
of his war experience undoubtedly abbreviated his life. His death
occurred in 1890 when sixty-eight years, five months, and twenty days
old. He was a very popular member of his community, and was elected
and served as constable of his township in Grant county for six or seven
years after the war. He was then elected a justice of the peace and
served for four years in Greene township. The family were members
of the Methodist church. The mother is still living and is now eighty-
seven years of age. The eleven children in their family are noted as
follows : The tirst born, died in infancy ; Mary Jane, wife of Jacob
Hiatt of Rigdon ; Perry, a lawyer at Ordway, Colorado; Andrew J., of
Elwood; Rebecca A., wife of J. L. Newkirk of Sexton, Indiana; John 0.,
of Tipton, editor of the Tipton Times; Franklin Pierce, a teacher and
township trustee at Elwood ; William H., of Rigdon ; Christopher R.,
who lives near Fairmount, Indiana; Emma, now deceased, who was the
wife of Alfred Corbin ; Melvina, who married Lee Jones.
Mr. Andrew J. Behymer spent nine years of his childhood in Rush
county, Indiana, but reached manhood while the family had its home in
Grant county. The usual years spent in atteyding school in his case
happened to fall within the Civil war period, and as his father was
absent in the army, he was allowed to attend irregularly, and subse-
quently had to make up the deficiencies of early training by hard appli-
cation and self effort. He became a student in the National Normal
University at Lebanon, Ohio, and after leaving that institution took up
the work of teaching, and altogether has had sixteen terms of work as
a teacher to his credit. During his work as teacher he was also engaged
in farming and also studied law, was admitted to the bar, and took up
active practice. He was admitted to the bar in 1880 and spent the first
nine years of his professional career at Rigdon and in Tipton, from
whence he moved to Elwood, and in this city has been identified with
either the newspaper business or with the law ever since.
On March 19, 1874, Mr. Behymer married Miss Mary E. Thrasher,
daughter of Josiah and Amanda M. (McConell) Thrasher. Mrs. Behy-
mer was born on a farm in Grant county, six miles west of Fairmount,
and her parents were natives of Ohio and early settlers in Fayette
county, this state, both being now deceased. She was one of the follow-
ing five children: Alonzo. Nancy J., Martha, Mary E., and Minnie.
Mr. and Mrs. Behymer are the parents of six children, whose names
are : Harley 0., Clarence, Grover, Grace, Linnie, and Hazel. Harley
0. died when about one year of age, and Grover at about the same age,
while Clarence was sixteen 3-ears of age when death came to him. Grace
is the wife of David Goldnamer. and their home is in Anderson. Lin-
nie married George Livingston, of Piqua, Ohio, and resides at Decatur,
Illinois, and their three children are Walter, Clarence, and Lester Jack-
son. Hazel is at home with her parents. Mr. Behymer 's church is the
Methodist, while his wife is a member of the Christian church.
Mr. Behymer is fraternally affiliated with the Knights of Pythias.
700 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
He is also a member of the Sons of Veterans, and in polities is an ardent
Democrat. He has been honored with special distinction in public
affairs and represented his district in the lower house of the Indiana
legislature for four sessions.
In 1891 he served as chief of the engrossing and enrolling clerks of
the house of representatives. Mr. Behymer's ofiBee in Elwood is in the
Harting Block, while his home is at 1814 North C Street.
Joseph A. Dehomty. The bankiug interests of a community are
necessarily among the most important, for financial stability must be
the foundation stone upon which'all great enterprises are erected. The
men who control and conserve the money of corporation or country
must possess many qualities not requisite in the ordinary citizen, and
among these high commercial integrity, exceptional financial ability,
poise, judgment and foresight may be mentioned. Public confidence
must be with them, and this fact has been demonstrated again and again,
when panics that have even threatened the stability of the Government
have been averted by the wisdom, sagacity and foresight of the men
whose whole training has been along the line of finance. A citizen whose
name is widely knovm in banking circles of Indiana, and who, although
now somewhat retired from financial affairs, still controls large interests
in various lines of endeavor, is Joseph A. Dehority, of Elwood, late
president of the First National Bank of this place, and now the direct-
ing head of the Home Storage and Manufacturing Company and the
CurtisviUe Tile and Brick Company. He is also possessed of large
realty interests in this section, and is prominent in public, social and
fraternal life. Mr. Defiority was born in Elwood, Indiana, June 28,
1871, and is a son of James H. and Jane (Hannah) Dehority.
James Madison Dehority, the paternal grandfather of Joseph A.
Dehority, was bom in Delaware, and was a man of wide experience and
diversified talents. In early life he became a practitioner of law, sub-
sequently entered the ministry of the Methodist Protestant Church,
later became a large grain dealer, and had also large interests in mer-
cantile and financial enterprises. He died in Elwood at the age of eighty
years, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Susan Huffman,
passed away in February, 1899, in advanced years. Of their children,
only two lived to maturity: John and James. The maternal grand-
father of Mr. Dehority was James C. Hannah, more familiarly known
as "Beek" Hannah, who, with his wife, Elizabeth (Hansel) Hannah,
was an early pioneer of Blackford county, Indiana. Later they came
to Madison county and settled in Elwood, where Mr. Hannah followed
the trade of a blacksmith. At the time of his death in 1909, he was
eighty-two years of age, his wife having passed away many years ago.
They were the parents of a large family of children, four of whom are
still living, namely: John, Monroe, Jane and Ada.
Jamea H. Dehority, the father of Joseph A. Dehority, was reared as a
farmer boy in Hamilton county, Indiana, until December 24, 1856,
when he was brought by his parents to Elwood, being then nine years
of age. Here he grew to manhood, attending the public schools, and
was taken into the grain business by his father, with his brother John.
Later they embarked in the general mercantile field, and in 1874 erected
a lai^e merchandise store building, a brick structure located on the cor-
ner of Main and Anderson streets, this building being destroyed by fire
in 1892. At the same time they embarked in a private banking busi-
HISTOKY OF xMADlSOiX L'OUNTV 701
ness, and in 1881 organized the Farmers BanJi, ol wliich James H.
Dehority was cashier. This was conducted until 1892, when JMr. Deho-
rity organized the First National liank, and of this institution he was
president until his death, April SO, 1899, when he was tifty-four years,
live mouths of age. He was a faithful member of the Methodist Episco-
pal church, of which his wife, who survives him, is a consistent attend-
ant. Mr. Dehority was a man of much more thau ordinary hnaucial and
business ability, and always so conducted his ati'airs as to gain the cou-
fideuce and good will of all with whom he had transactions. He had the
welfare of his community at heart, and was ever ready to assist move-
ments making for progress or the general public welfare. He and his
wife had four children : Joseph A. ; Edward G. ; Tillie M., who is the
widow of B. R. Gall, and resides in Los x\jjgeles, California; and lone,
now deceased, who was the wife of George Piatt.
Joseph A. Dehority has spent his entire cai-eer in Elwood. After
securing his educational training iu the public schools, he entered the
Farmers Bank as a collector, and when the Firat National Bank was
organized became assistant cashier of that institution. Later he was
made cashier, then became vice-president, and fiually was made presi-
dent of this old and stable institution, a position which he capably filled
until his retirement in 19U9. Since that year he has been giving the
greater part of his attention to the management of the old family home-
stead, of which his father owned a part, this being now a tract of 320
acres located iu the heart of the city of Elwood. As stated before, Mr.
Dehoi"ity is president of the Home Storage and iManufacturing Company
and of the Curtisville Tile and Brick Company. His wide and varied
interests make him an influential factor iu the commercial and financial
life of the city, and he has withheld his support from no movement
which is calculated to promote the interests of Elwood or its people.
Among his associates he is looked to for guidance, counsel and leader-
ship, and his connection with any enterprise is ample assurance of that
venture's entire stability.
On May 20, 1896, Mr. Dehority was united iu marriage with Miss
Marg2iret E. Beale, of Rushville, who was bom in Rush county, Indiana,
daughter of Richard and Mary (Lockridge) Beale. As a young man,
Mr. Beale went to Australia, where he was engaged in mining, and
while there was married, his wife dying after giving birth to two sons:
Stewart and Richard. Later, on coming to this country, Mr. Beale mar-
ried Mary Lockridge, and they became early settlers of Rush and Frank-
lin counties. They also had two children: Clara and Margaret E.
The union of Mr. and Mrs. Dehority has been blessed by the birth of
two children : Joseph and Richard, of whom the latter died at the age
of eighteen months. Mrs. Dehority is a member of the Presbyterian
Church, which her husband also attends. He belongs to Quincy Lodge
No. 200, I. 0. 0. F., in which for four years he has been commander of
the Patriarchs Militant, and also holds membership in the local lodges
of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Improved Order
of Red Men.
Chakles E. Fenelon. It was not until January, 1912, that Charles
E. Fenelon came to Elwood and here established the Elwood Monu-
mental Works, but even in the brief time that has elapsed he has accom-
plished a greater degree of advancement in the business than would be
regarded as possible by the casual observer. His methods are such as to
702 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
inspire confidence and wia for him the patronage of his fellow towns-
people and the business of which he is the leading spirit is making rapid
strides in and about the community. Mr. Fenelon comes by his skill
and talent for the business honestly, for his father before him was a
granite and marble sculptor, and he reached a pleasing degree of promi-
nence and prosperity in the marble business in Vermont between the
years of 1871 and 1905.
Charles E. Fenelon was born in Barre, Vermont, on December 5,
1881, and is the son of Nicholas and Rose (Ross) Fenelon, both natives
of France, but the mother being of Italian parentage. These parents
were blessed with twelve children, of which number onlj- six grew to
mature years. They are: John, Anthony, Louisa, Charles E., Augus-
tus and William. The others died in childhood. All the living members
of this family are skilled musicians, most of them professionals and
holding high places in the musical world. The father was a granite and
marble sculptor of exceeding great skiU, and he came to America in
1871, as has already been mentioned, and located in Barre, Vermont,
where he engaged in the marble business. He continued therein most
successfully, reared his family and gave them excellent educations in
their chosen profession, and in 1905 suffered the loss of the sight of one
of his eyes. He soon after retired from business, and returned to
France with his wife, and they are now residents of Marseilles, where
they are spending their declining years in never-to-be-forgotten atmos-
phere of Sunny France, their native land.
Charles E. Fenelon was reared in Barre, Vermont, and in common
with others of his family, attended the public schools, and learned the
granite and marble cutter's trade from his father, who felt that if he
equipped his sons with a practical trade, they were free to follow what-
ever profession they chose thereafter. Young Fenelon lived at home
until he reached his majority, then took up the study of music, for
which he possessed a natural and unusual talent, as did all the others
of the family, and after some training, began to travel with his brothers
and sisters, and they visited practically every city of note in the United
States. He gave up the life of the road in 1909, engaging in the music
business in Indianapolis and there continuing up to January, 1912,
when he came to Elwood and here established himself in the business in
which his father had trained him. The Elwood Monumental Works,
located at 1421 South A street, is the result of his efforts, and is one
of the most up-to-date and complete establishments of its kind in this
section of the state. As a result of the thorough training Mr. Fenelon
received in his father's workshop, he is one of the best marble and
granite workmen in the business, and in his more busy seasons he
employs a number of skilled workmen about the plant. As an artistic
designer and sculptor, he would look long to find his superior, and the
designing of monuments and markers is safely left to his skill and
judgment by those who want the best. He carries a fine stock of marble
and granite monuments, both foreign and domestic, and in the brief
time that he has been established here has come to be recognized as one
to be reckoned with when matters of that order are up for consideration.
On December 23d, 1905, Mr. Fenelon was married to I\Iiss Ada
Ross, the daughter of Charles and Adaline Bianchi. Two children were
born to them, both of whom died in infancy. Mrs. Fenelon was born
in Connecticut, as were her parents, who are now residents of New
'■/^^ SAyth^^yxM^'l^^
t
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 703
Bedford, Massachusetts. She was one of three children, the others
being John and Harry.
Mr. and Mrs. Fenelon are members of the Lutheran church of
Elwood, and he is fraternally associated with Lodge No. 230, A. P. &
A. M., and Elwood Chapter No. 101), Royal Arch Masons. He still
keeps up his interest in music and is a member of the Lidianapolis
Society of Musicians, and musical director of the Elwood Military Band.
Henry Bronnenberg. It is by no means an empty distinction to have
lived actively and usefully in any community for a period of nearly
ninety years. At this writing tlic venerable Henry Bronnenberg of
Chesterfield has passed his eighty-ninth birthday. He was born in Madi-
son county, at a date so early that his life had its beginning at the same
time with civilization in this part of the state. Mr. Bronnenberg is one
of the oldest, if not the oldest, of Madison county's pioneer citizens, and
withou' (luestion is the oldest native son. He has been both a witness and
an actor in tlie clmnging developments of a long time, covering tlie entire
history of Madison county, so far as the work of white men is concerned.
He is a pioneer, has been successful in his work and business, and is still
a hale and hearty man, enjoying the highest esteem of a large community.
When he was quite young there were several tribes of Indians still
inhabiting Madison and Delaware counties, in fact he saw the last tribe
leave this part of the state, the squaws and pappoose on ponies and the
chiefs on foot. In the early times this country abounded with such game
as deer, wild turkeys, raccoon, squirrels, with many other species of
smaller game and the rivers abounded with many kinds of fish, so he has
lived to see this county grow and develop from a wilderness to a great
and prosperous country. In fact all the old settlers that first located in
this county and cleared the forest have passed away.
Henry Bronnenberg was born in Union township, JIadison count}',
Indiana, September 4, 1824. At that time, it is of interest to note, Indiana
had been a state only eight years, and the capital had not yet been estab-
lished at Indianapolis. Practically all of northern Indiana above the
"White River was one unbroken wilderness, and the Bronnenberg family
was one of the first to penetrate the wilds of this part of the state. His
parents were Frederick and Barbara (Oaster) Bronnenberg, natives of
Germany. His father came to the United States when about sixteen years
old, settled in Pennsylvania, and from there moved to Madison county,
about the j-ear 1820. JIadison county of course at that date did not exist
by name, and he was here at the organization of civil goverimient in this
locality. He followed the work of a pioneer farmer, and died in this
count}' when seventy-eight years old. Of the eleven children eight grew
to maturity and Henry is now the last and only survivor.
Mr. Henry Bronnenberg is one of the men who were produced by the
pioneer sj'Stem of training. By reference to the chapter on education in
this history, it will be noted that the only schools existing while he was
growing up were the so-called subscription schools, supported by a com-
munity for the benefit of the children and usually only a few weeks in
each year. Mr. Bronnenberg attended such a school, conducted in a log
cabin, and his recollection embraces such crude instruments as the old-
fashioned quill pen. the rough slab benches on which the scholars spent
the dreary hours of school time, a laiilding heated with a fireplace, lighted
throusrb a window which was merely a hole in the wall, covered with
greased paper, and the instruction was confined to the rudimentary
704 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
three R's. With ail that primitive training he acquired that practical
industry, which combined with his keen business sense .and energy enabled
him to succeed much above the ordinary.
Mr. Bronnenberg has long been known as one of Madison county's
successful men. At one time he owned more than fifteen hundred acres
of land, and gave to each of his children a valuable farm. He is a well
preserved man for his years, has good hearing and eyesight, and is prop-
erly termed one of the grand old men of the community in which he has
spent his Uf e.
In 1847 Mr. Bronnenberg married Miss Mariah Fo^kne^. Eight chil-
dren were born to this wife. After her death he married Hannah Perkins,
who died in 1910. Mr. Bronnenberg for his third wife married Mrs.
Ophelia (Crouch) Borders. She was born in Kentucky, a daughter of
Absalom Crouch, a native of Garrard county, Kentucky.
In politics Mr. Bronnenberg is a Democrat, and has a remarkable
record as a voter. His first ballot was cast nearly seventy years ago for
James Polk, and he has never missed a presidential election since that
time, having voted for the entire list of Democratic presidential candi-
dates down to the last. With business success he has likewise been honored
with public esteem, and served as trustee of his township for twenty-three
years, and was a county commissioner for six years. Mr. Bronnenberg
has long been one of the leaders in the Spiritualist church in Madison
county, and at one time served as treasurer of the Chesterfield Association
of spiritualists. Fraternally he has been a Mason since he was twenty-
three years old.
De. William H. Hoppenrath. Twenty years of medical practice in
the town in which he was born is the record of Dr. Hoppenrath, and his
reputation is one of distinctive order among members of the profession
in this district today. He was born in Elwood, on September 21, 1870,
and is the son of Frank and Eva (Faucett) Hoppenrath, natives of
Hamburg, Germanyf and Ohio, respectively.
The father of Dr. Hoppenrath was five years old when he came to
America's shores from his native land with his parents in 1853. He
" was the son of William and Mary (Brandt) Hoppenrath, both natives
of Germany, and the father was a shoemaker by trade. He carried on a
business in Elwood for a number of years, and finally took up his abode
on the home farm of his son, Frank, dying there when he was seventy-
two years old, and his widow following soon after when she was in her
seventy- fourth year. They had four children: Frank and Charlotte
reached years of maturity, but two others died on shipboard of measles
while the family was en route to America, and were buried at sea.
Frank Hoppenrath was reared in Indiana in various towns that rep-
resented the family home while he was growing up. They first lived in
Middletown, and later were settled near Frankton, finally settling on a
farm near Elwood. While in his 'teens he worked with his father in the
shoemaking business but when he came to years of maturity and respon-
sibility he bought a farm in the vicinity of Elwood and devoted himself
to the farming industry with a will, gaining prosperity and success in
the enterprise. In later life he settled on a fine place some three miles
north of Elwood, and there he died in 1892, still young in years, being
not more than forty-five years old when death claimed hi i. His wife
preceded him in death in 1886, when she was thirty-five years old. They
had four children, as follows: Marj' Catherine, who died, was the
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 705
wife of Geo. Spiegel ; Dr. William H., of this review ; Charles E., a resi-
dent of Moose Jaw, Canada ; and Frank Otis, of Pueblo, Colorado.
The maternal grandparents of Dr. Hoppenrath were Charles and
Kate (Hawk) Faucett, early settlers in iladison county, Indiana. He
was a farmer, and died in Elwood in 1903, when he was eighty-four
years of age. His wife died in Illinois when she had attained a tine old
age. They reared a goodly family, among which were Harvey S., Jos-
eph, Eva, James, Clinton, and Lewis.
Returning to Dr. Hoppenrath, who is the immediate subject of this
review, it may be said that he was reared on the farm of his father, and
his schooling in boyhood came to him through the avenues of the dis-
trict schools. He was ambitious and studious as a boy, and his parents
early recognized his fitness for a professional training, and when he had
finished with the local schools sent him to the Central Normal College
at Danville, Ind., for two years, after which he was engaged in school
teaching for another two years. He was in no wise content to continue
as a pedagog, however, and his savings in those two years made it pos-
sible for him to undertake his professional studies independent of his
family. He entered Detroit Medical College and was duly graduated
from that well known institution in 1893, receiving at that time his
degree of M. D., and he at once began the practice of medicine in his
home town, where he has continued ever since, twenty years having
elapsed since he came forth as a newly tiedged Doctor of Medicine. It
is sufficient to say that his success has ^t all times warranted him in con-
tinuing in his home community, and he stands high in professional and
other circles.
Dr. Hoppenrath is a member of the County and State Medical
Societies and of the American Medical Association, and in addition to
his large private practice is surgeon for the Pennsylvania Railroad in
this district.
On the 15th day of October, 1892, Dr. Hoppenrath was united in
marriage with Miss Blanche Chalfant, a daughter of Wesley and Eliza-
beth (Smith) Chalfant. She was born on a farm near Elwood, where
her parents long made their home, and was their only child. Wesley
Chalfant was a veteran of the Civil war, serving four years as a private,
and was a highly esteemed citizen of Elwood, and vicinity all his life.
Dr. and Mrs. Hoppenrath have one son, Wesley Merle Hoppenrath.
Mrs. Hoppenrath is a member of the Presbyterian church of Elwood,
and the Doctor has no churchly affiliations as an active member, but he
is fraternally associated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks.
Francis M. Harbit. Few citizens of Madison county have been more
intimately connected with the financial, business and public interests of
Madison county than has Francis M. Harbit, who for a half, a century
has made his influence felt in every walk of life in Elwood. Able busi-
ness man, shrewd banker and progressive farmer, he was not content
to consider his duty to his community discharged with the casting of his
vote and the voicing of his public-spirited sentiments, but entered
actively into the lists, gained a high place in the confidence of the people,
and served Elwood faithfully and well during a period when this city
was in need of strong, courageous men to further its progress. Although
he has reached the age when many men would consider themselves
entitled to a rest from their labors, he continues to be an influential.
708 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
factor in civic affairs, and as president of the Elwood Trust Company,
belongs to that class of financiers to whom the people look for guidance,
counsel and leadership. Mr. Harbit was born in Hamilton county,
Indiana, August 24, 1843, and is a son of Isaac and Wincy (Brown)
Harbit.
Henry Harbit, the paternal grandfather of Francis M. Harbit, was
a native of Kentucky, where he married Nancy Groover, and they subse-
quently became early settlers of Indiana, locating first in Rush county,
and moving to Tipton county in 1838. Later Mr. Harbit entered land
from the government, a good part of his farm now including the pres-
ent town of Elwood, and the remainder of his life was passed in clearing
£Lnd developing his land and making a home for his family. The children
of Henry and Nancy (Groover) Harbit were: Isaac, James, Samuel,
William, George, John, Andrew and Nancy. The maternal grandfather
of Francis M. Harbit was Zimri Brown, whose wife was Jane Dollar-
hide, both natives of Kentucky, and like the Harbits farming people and
early pioneers of the Hoosier State. Mr. Brown, who was one of the
first commissioners of Tipton county, died there advanced in years and
highly esteemed by his community. Six children were born to Mr. and
Mrs. Brown, namely : Wincy, Malcy, Jency, Mary A., Sophia, and John
R., the last named of whom died in the Soldiers' Home, in Kansas.
Isaac Harbit was born in Kentucky, and was a child when brought to
Indiana, here securing his education and early engaging in agricultural
pursuits. He went to Missouri, ia 1869, and died there, in the town of
Paris, in 1878, at the age of sixty-eight years, his wife surviving him
until 1884, and also being sixty-eight years old at the time of her
demise. He was a Universalist in his religious views, and she a Meth-
odist. Mr. Harbit was well known in both Indiana and Missouri, and
at various times was elected to township ofSces by his feUow-citizens.
He and his wife, who was a native of North Carolina, had ten children,
as follows: Henry Z., residing in Tipton county, Indiana; Francis M. ;
Marcus, living in Iowa; Zadock, a resident of Indianapolis, Indiana;
Willard, of Iowa ; Andrew J., and John, deceased ; Nancy, the wife of
William Donaldson, of Paris, Missouri; Anna, who married LeRoy
Dye, of Nevada, Missouri ; and Etta, the wife of James Walker, of Paris,
Missouri.
Francis M. Harbit grew to manhood in Tipton and Hamilton coun-
ties, and came to Elwood in 1864, here securing his employment in the
first grain elevator built in the city, which was owned by a Mr. Barton.
Subsequently he embarked in farming, on a tract of land located about
five miles from Elwood, but after a short period returned to the city
and embarked in a general hardware business. He served as post-
master at Elwood, New Lancaster and Jackson, became township trustee,
was made city councilman, a position he held for many terms, and
finally was elected mayor of Elwood, and continued to hold that office
for four years. During this time numerous improvements of a sub-
stantial and beneficial character were made, and the new city buildings
were erected. Mr. Harbit proved a popular and conscientious chief
executive and the clean, sane and business-like administration which he
■gave his fellow-citizens gained him many friends in all parties; after
serving people practically all his life he is proud of his record as a
public servant. Mr. Harbit although having served as mayor was again
forced to run and was elected in 1913. He had refused several times, but
popular opinion being that he was the one man for the reform party.
I
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNT V 707
having so well governed the city during his last election, that he was
finally prevailed upon to take the office for another term, feeling that
it was his duty to do so. He encouraged the establishing of various indus-
tries in the city, was a stockholder in the first tin plate works that located
here, and has long been largely interested in real estate. In 1897, with
H. D. Harmon, he organized the Elwood Trust Company, of which he
has been president to the present time.
On March 16, 1866, Mr. Harbit was united in marriage with Miss
Elizabeth Judy, who was born in Darke county, Ohio, daughter of
Samuel and Nancy (Ross) Judy, the former a native of Pennsylvania
and the latter of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Judy, who were early settlers of
Indiana, had three children: David, Henry and Elizabeth. IMr. and
Mrs. Harbit had six children: Effie, Prony, Nona, Charles F., Arley
and Cecil, the last-named of whom is now deceased. Effie married
Archie Dunlop, and has four daughters. Prony, a farmer in Duck
Creek township, married Ottie Davis, and has two children — Francis
Julian and Lewis. Nona lives in Seattle, Washington. Charles F., a
farmer of Hamilton county, Indiana, married Osie Shaw, and has
a daughter — Catherine. Arley, who is superintendent for the Andrews
Asphalt Paving Company, at Hamilton, Ohio, married A'da Shepley,
and they have one daughter — Elizabeth Ann.
William Levi Abbott. With, great pleasure we present to our read-
ers a brief record of the life of this gentleman, satisfied that a study
of his character as a successful man of business will not be without
interest or advantage, especially to the young man just entering the
busy arena of commerce. William Levi Abbott, proprietor of the Abbott
Milling Company, at Elwood, was born at Sulphur Springs, Henry
county, Indiana, March 22, 1873, and is a son of George W. and Rebecca
Ann (Fesler) Abbott.
The paternal grandfather of Mr. Abbott, George Abbott, and his
wife, were early settlers of Indiana, whence they came from Virginia,
the family having originated in England. They died in Henry county
in advanced years, having been the parents of George W., John, Sarah,
Mary, William and Jlrs. Newcomer. The maternal grandfather of
Mr. Abbott, David Fesler, was a native of Pennsylvania, and was also
an early Indiana settler, locating in iladison county, and here he passed
away when eighty-two years of age, his wife dying at the age of sev-
enty-nine. They had a family of five children: John, Rebecca Ann,
Benjamin, William and Catherine, who died soon after her marriage.
George W. Abbott was reared in Indiana and here learned the trade of
blacksmith, at which he worked for a time at Sulphur Springs. Subse-
quently, however, he turned his attention to farming, near New Harmony,
Illinois, but in 1885 came to Elwood and established himself in the mill-
ing business. In this he continued until his death, being in partnership
with William L. and others of his sons at different times. His death
occurred in Elwood, in 1910, when he was seventy-three years of age,
while his widow, a native of Indiana, survives him and still lives in
Elwood, where she is well known to the members of the Christian church.
They were the parents of nine children, of whom seven lived to maturity ;
Mary, the wife of Robert Little, who resides near Frankton, Indiana;
Melissa, who married Daniel Little and lives near Florida, Indiana;
Daniel L., whose home is in Anderson ; Belle, who became the wife of
Reuben Silvey, and lives at Elwood ; Charles E., who makes his home
708 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
at Crown Point, Indiana; William L., of this review; Clarence K.. of
Elwood ; and two who died when young.
William Levi Abbott lived in Henry county until he was six years
old, at which time he accompanied his father to Illinois, and there lived
four years, during this time attending the public school. When ten
years of age the family came to Madison county, and this has been his
home ever since. On completing his preliminary educational training,
he entered Purdue University, where he spent two terms, stud.ying elec-
trical and mechanical engineering. He subsequently learned the trade
of machinist, a vocation which he followed for a period of six >ear.s, then
entering the business of his father, of which he is now sole proprietor.
He does custom grinding, meal, feed, etc., and also handles flour. His
trade has enjoyed a healthy and gratifying increase, and his position
in the business world is established beyond question. He has shown an
interest in fraternal work, and now belongs to Quincy Lodge No. 200,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and to the local lodges of the Knights
of Pythias, the Improved Order of Red ilen and the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks, in all of which he has a wide circle of warm
friends. A Republican in politics, he has been one of the wheel-horses
of his party in this section, and has been honored by election to the
office of alderman for two terms. Mr. Abbott is an expert automobile
mechanic and is the sole representative for the Ford car for Pipe Creek
and Duck Creek townships, also half of one township in Tipton county
and half of one to\^nship in Boone county.
On October 5, 1899, Mr. Abbott was married to Miss Ida F. Myerly,
daughter of John Henry Myerly. She was born in Madison county,
Indiana, south of the city of Elwood, was here reared and educated and
has spent her entire life. Like her husband, she has drawn about her
numerous admiring friends and is a general favorite socially.
Frank E. DeHority. The general commercial enterprise of Elwood
has benefited from the impetus and sustained efforts of three generations
of the DeHority family, which is one of the oldest and best known names
in this section of Madison county. Mr. F. E. DeHority has spent his
active career in the insurance business, and now has a successful busi-
ness with offices in the DeHority-Heck Block in Elwood.
Frank E. DeHority was born in Elwood, January 15, 1875. His
paternal grandfather, James M. DeHority, came from Delaware, and
his wife from one of the southern states, and he became one of the pio-
neer settlers of Perkinsville, Indiana, and subsequently was one of the
early residents at Elwood. For a number of years he was in the grain
and general merchandise business, but his regular profession was that
of physician, and he is well remembered as a kindly and skillful old
doctor who was the friend and adviser to many families in this neigh-
borhood. He was also a minister of the gospel. He and his wife both
attained good old age, and of their children two reached maturity, J. H.
and John W.
The parents of Mr. F. E. DeHority were John W. and Jane (Moore)
DeHority. The grandparents on the mother's side were Thomas and
Susan Moore, who were also among the pioneers of Madison county, hav-
ing arrived here when the Indians still made this their home. In the
Moore family were the following children: John, Joseph, William,
Letha, Julia, Thomas, Jane and Madison. Mr. John W. DeHority was
reared in Madison county, and subsequently entered the general mer-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 709
chandise business at Elwood, with his father and with his brother, J. H.,
under the firm name of J. M. DeHority & Sons. He was also owner
of some farm lands, and continued in active and prosperous business
up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1881 when he was forty
years of age. His wife is still living in Elwood. They were members of
the Jlethodist-Protestant church. Of their eight children, four axe now
living, namely: William A., of Indianapolis; Charles C, of Elwood;
Cora B., wife of Elma C. Heck, of Elwood and Frank E., of Elwood.
In his native town of Elwood, ^Ir. Frank E. DeHority attended the
public schools and besides the advantages of a comfortable home and
good moral and intellectual environments for his youth, he was given
special advantages in the way of schooling and spent three years as a
student of Purdue University at LaFayette. He began his career as
contractor, but most of his business attention has been given to insur-
ance and farming. He now owns a farm of eighty acres in Duck Creek
township and another in Lafayette township of the same acreage. For
ten years ^Ir. DeHority served as .secretary of the Fair Association and
has always been public spirited and liberal in helping to promote the
welfare of this community.
March 19, 1894, he married Miss Myrtle Clymer, a daughter of Royal
H. Clymer. ilrs. DeHority was born in Elwood and both her parents
are natives of this state. Mr. and Mrs. DeHority have one son, Robert.
She is an active member of the ilethodist church and his fraternal affil-
iations are with (juincy Lodge No. 230, A. F. & A. il. ; Elwood Chapter
No. 109, R. A. M. ; Anderson Commandery No. 32, K. T., and has taken
thirty-two degrees of the Scottish Rite and is a member of the Indian-
apolis Consistory. Mr. DeHority is also affiliated with the Elks Lodge,
and is popular in all civic circles. He is one of the prominent Demo-
crats of Madison county, and for two years served as chairman of the
Democratic Central Committee of Madison county.
Marshall A. Hawkes, proprietor of a plumbing, heating and tinning
business, at No. 1451 South A. street, Elwood, has been a resident of this
city since 1906, and is a gentleman well known to be intelligent, enter-
prising and of good judgment in business affairs, so that he has been gen-
erality successful in his undertakings. Mr. Hawkes is another example of
the self-made men of which this country is so justly proud, for from
boyhood his career has been one of industry and well-directed effort, and
the position he now occupies as an honored and honorable man of affairs
has been gained by no fortunate turn of circumstances, but rather as
the well-merited reward of faithful endeavor. Mr. Hawkes was born
in the city of Baltimore, Maryland, April 21, 1874, and is a son of Albert
G. and Hester J. (Marshall) Hawkes.
Russell Hawkes, the paternal grandfather of JIarshall A. Hawkes,
was born in Maine, of English descent, while his wife, Frances (Camp-
bell) Hawkes, also a native of the Pine Tree state, was descended from
Scotch ancestry. They were the parents of eight children : Ellen, Mary,
Rebecca, Octavia, Albert G., Amelia, Benjamin and Nathaniel. Of these
Benjamin met his death while serving as a soldier during the (^ivil war,
in General Hooker's retreat. The maternal grandfather of Mr. Hawkes
was John Marshall, who married Margaret Mackey, both being natives
of New York. Mr. ^Marshall was a mechanic, and met his death in an
accident in the gas works in which he worked in New York. He and
his wife had five children : Mary, Martha, Jesse, Hester J. and Sidney.
710 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Albert G. Hawkes was bom in the state of Maine, and there grew to
manhood, learmng the trade of pattern-maker, which he followed in
Baltimore, Maryland, for a number of years. He later went to Chicago,
where he spent thirteen years at his trade, subsequently removed to
Portage, Wisconsin, later returned to Chicago, and from that point
went to Leesburg. On March 16, 1897, he came to Elwood, where he and
his wife still reside, he being eighty-two years old, while she has reached
her seventy-sixth year. They are faithful members of the Presbyterian
church. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hawkes : Adeline
Octavia, who became the wife of H. M. Baxter, of Leesburg, Indiana ;
Russell N., who is now deceased; and Marshall A., of this review.
Marshall A. Hawkes was still a small child when taken to Chicago
by his parents, and there he received the greater part of his education,
ajthough he later attended also the public schools of Portage, Wiscon-
sin. Ou the family's return to Chicago, he became a cash boy in one of
the large department stores of that city, but after a short experience in
that line turned his attention to the printing business, at which he
worked for eight months. At the end of that period he began to learn the
trade of plumber, with Thomas Conlin, of Chicago, and in 1894 left the
Illinois metropolis and went to Leesburg, Indiana, which city was his
home until his advent in Elwood, in 1906, at which time he established
himself in his present business. He has a finely equipped store, fitted for
expert work in plumbing, tinning, gas fitting, heating and heavy sheet-
iron work and employs a number of skilled assistants, and his excellent
workmanship and absolute reliability have gained him a large trade.
This has been built up from a modest start, and it has been due to his
good management, thorough knowledge of his calling, and ability to
recognize the needs of his community, that he has prospered. He is
enterprising and public-spirited, and at all times has manifested a com-
mendable desire to lend his aid and influence to whatever movements
have promised to benefit Elwood or its people in any way.
Mr. Hawkes is a member of Quincy Lodge No. 230, P. & A. M.;
Seneca Tribe No. 113, Improved Order of Red Men; Aerie No. 201,
Fraternal Order of Eagles; and Lodge No. 166, Knights of Pythias. In
the campaign of 1912 he gave his support to the new Progressive party,
and has continued to aid its principles and candidates. He is unmar-
ried.
W. A. Faust. After a business career in the city of Elwood where he
was connected with the clothing trade for a number of years, Mr. Faust
has recently given up city life for agriculture, and is now numbered
among the successful and progressive farmers in Pipe Creek township.
He was a trustee of the township until he resigned, and now devotes all
his time to the cultivation of the one hundred and fifty acres comprising
his model country place. However, he and his family still keep their
residence in Elwood, and occupy a comfortable home at 906 South
A street.
William A. Faust is a native of Indiana, born August 21, 1879, in
Rush county, a son of William P. and Lucinda (Lee) Faust. William
P. Faust, the father, came from Pennsylvania, and the mother was from
Virginia, and belonged to the old Lee family which has produced so
many famous characters in American history. When the father came
to Indiana, he first located in Hamilton county, and spent his active
years there as a farmer, and one of the influential local citizens. There
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 711
were five children iu the family, ef whom William A., was the oldest,
the others being Ray, Gilbert, Viola Overdorf, and Raymond. The
mother of these children is still living: and has her home in Elwood.
^Yllliam A. Faust has spent practically all his career in Madisou
comity, grew up among the boys of the county during the last two
decades of the nineteenth century, and attended tirst the common
schools and later graduated from the Elwood high school. While he
was going to school he also worked on the home farm, and in that way
had a thorough practical experience of agriculture in all its phases
before he had reached manhood. For twelve years he was actively
engaged in business as a clothier in Elwood. He finally gave up that
line of effort and went out on his farm, which he now makes his busi-
ness, and which he conducts in a very profitable manner.
In 1901 Mr. Faust married Miss Julia Kline, of Lebanon, Ohio, a
daughter of William and Iva (Perriu) Kline. The two children who
have eome into their home are; Byron and Mary Louise. Mr. Faust
is a public-spirited citizen, always willing to help along any worthy
cause, but has no aspirations for political office. However, he was drafted
to fill the office of trustee of Pipe Creek township and held that office
for a time, until he felt that he could resign without detriment to duties
entrusted to his care. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Knights of
Pythias, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Mod-
ern Woodmen of America.
Barney Fl.anagan. The calling of auctioneering is more a profes-
sion than a business, and the qualifications necessary to be possessed
by those who would become successful in this line are indeed numerous.
It has been said that good auctioneers are born, not made ; a person can
learn to be a doctor, a lawyer, or a minister, but there have never been
institutions in which the student could learn this fascinating vocation.
An excellent judge of values, with the ability to give an iutelligent and
elaborate description of the thousands and thousands of different arti-
cles that pass through his hands, v/ith that peculiar and most necessary
faculty of expressing his thoughts extemporaneously, and above all with
the quickness and responsiveness, imagination, sympathy and humor
which have come as a heritage from his Irish forefathers, Barney Flan-
agan has become almost a national figure in auctioneering circles, and
is one of the few who are successfully engaged in this occupation today.
In addition, he is the owner of a well-cultivated farm of 138 acres,
located in Lafayette township, and has the added distinction of being
a self-made man, having worked his way up from humble and obscure
boyhood to a recognized position of prestige among his fellow-citizens.
Mr. Flanagan was born in 1849, on a sailing vessel on the Atlantic
ocean, the day that land was sighted. This ship was afterwards lost in
a storm at sea. He is a son of Michael and ]\Iary (Nester) Flanagan,
the former born in County Dublin, Ireland, about twenty miles from
the city of Dublin, where he was a farmer and leased land before com-
ing to the United States. After landing at New Orleans, the little fam-
ily made its way to Cincinnati. Ohio, where the father died of sunstroke,
leaving the widow with her infant son. Barney Flanagan received a
somewhat limited education, and a.s a lad with his mother in Cincin-
nati he drifted around the city, living precariously until she married
Michael Dolan. Later, his step-father, Mr. Dolan, having worked out
and made enough to buy a farm of 114 acres in Henry county, Indiana,
712 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Barney joined him and continued to reside on the farm until 1881. In
that year Mr. Flanagan came to Madison county, where he settled on
an eighty-acre farm on Stony creek, and here he continued to live
nineteen years and then sold out and bought 135 acres in Lafayette town-
ship. He is a successful farmer, but also devotes largely of his time to
auctioneering, his services being in constant demand in this and other
sections of the state.
In 1871 Mr. Flanagan was married to Miss Mary Anderson, and to
this union there were born fourteen children, namely : Eddie, W. A.,
Charles, Mary, Rose, James, Julia, Cora, Pearl, Maud, Howard, Jessie,
Hazel and Barney, Jr., of whom Eddie, Charles, James and Jessie are
deceased. Mr. Flanagan's second marriage was to Mrs. Victoria A.
(Davis) Hartzell, widow of Henry Hartzell, by whom she had six chil-
dren: Dallas, Ethel, Eva, Lorin, Howard and Albert. Mr. and Mrs.
Flanagan have had no children. Her parents, John S. and Nancy (Scoot)
Davis, were natives of North Carolina, who spent their latter years in
Madison county, Indiana, and were the parents of nine children, as fol-
lows: Harvey, Mrs. Martha Peiky, Miles, Elisha, Mrs. Lavina Titus,
Victoria, Olive M., Mrs. Mary Sullivan and John A.
S. J. Stottlemyer, M. D. The medical profession of JMadison county
is ably and worthily represented at Linwood by Dr. S. J. Stottlemyer,
widely known as a physician and surgeon and as a citizen who has been
a prominent factor in the development of his community's interests.
Dr. Stottlemyer was born near Pendleton, Indiana, December 27, 1879,
and is a son of James and Mary (Gaver) Stottlemyer.
James Stottlemyer was born in Frederick county, Maryland, and
was twenty-two years of age when he came to Madison county, Indiana.
He has spent his career in agricultural pursuits and is now one of the
substantial citizens of Anderson township, owning a valuable farming
property south of the city of Anderson. He and his wife have had a
family of eleven children: ^Mollie, now Mrs. Preston; Roy; Ida, who is
deceased; Dr. S. J.; William; Ira; Claude; Lillian, now Mrs. Jarvis;
Fannie, now Mrs. Russell ; Ruby, now Mrs. Button ; and Frank.
S. J. Stottlemyer obtained excellent educational advantages, l)ut he
worked his way through and is a self-made man. His early training was
secured in the country schools, following which he took a course in the
Marion Normal College, graduating therefrom in August, 1901. He
then studied pharmacy at the Valparaiso schools till 1904. At this time
he adopted the profession of educator,- and for nine years was engaged
in teaching school in Madison county, ending as principal of the Markle-
ville schools; in the meantime he had prepared himself to enter medi-
cine. His studies in this science were prosecuted in the Illinois Medical
College, and the medical department of Loyola University, Chicago, and
upon his graduation from that institution he became an interne in the
Jefferson Park Hospital, Chicago, and also did special work at the Cook
County Hospital, Chicago. Doctor Stottlemyer entered upon the prac-
tice of his profession at Linwood, in 1911, and this place has since been
his field of endeavor. He engages in a general practice, but has special-
ized in children's diseases and is widely known in this branch of his
calling. A close student, a careful practitioner and a steady-handed
surgeon, he has taken advantage of the various inventions and discov-
eries which have marked the history of the medical and surgical sciences
during recent years, and has assisted in advancing the interests of his
HISTORY OF xMADlSON COUNTY 713
vocation in Madison county by liis active work as a member of the various
medical organizations. His success has been due to no adventitious cir-
cumstance, but has come as a direct result of years of preparation and
devotion to his profession.
On August 11, 1^108, at ^Yndersou, Doctor Stottlemyer was united in
marriage with Miss Ethel V. Stiuson, who was bom in Illinois, but
moved to Madison county in eai-ly childhood. She is a member of an
old and honored family of this section. Doctor Stottlemyer is a Demo-
crat in his political views, but has never cared for public office though he
has been nominated for coroner. He has co-operated with other earnest
citizens in securing benetits for the city of his adoption, especially alon^
the lines of education.
Hezekiah Tappak. Although now living retired from active pur-
suits Hezekiah Tappau, of North Auderaon, is still the owner of a hand-
some property of one hundred acres in Anderson township, where for a
number of years he was extensively engaged in pursuits of an agricul-
tural nature. He belongs to one of Madison county's old and honored
families, and is a native son of this county, having been born on the old
David D. Tappan farm in Richland township, December 8, 1852, bom to
David D. and Elizabeth (McNear) Tappan.
James Tappan, the great-grandfather of Hezekiah Tappan, was born
and raised in Woodbridge, Middlesex county. New Jersey, from whence
his son, Isaac, and the latter s wife, Eleanor (Dunham) Tappan, moved
to Madison county, Indiana, at an early period in the history of the state.
Isaac Tappan was an agriculturist throughout his life, and became one
of the substantial men of his day in Richland township.
David D. Tappan was born October 19, 1821, and was reared on the
old home place, being trained in agricultural pursuits and assisting his
father and brothers to clear the greater part of the farm. His death
occurred on the 28th of April, 1890. His wife was bom August 24, 1832.
Their long residence in this section gave them a wide acquaintance, and
everywhere they won and retained, the esteem and respect of those who
knew them. They became the parents of ten children : Eleanor C, who
married James Jl. Foukner ; Hezekiah, of this review ; Mary Jl., deceased,
who was the wife of J. M. Watkins; Emma, who married the Rev. Jack-
son; Nora, now Mrs. Kirk; Eliza J., the wife of Mr. Heritage; and Wil-
liam, Isaac, Edward and Elmer, who are all deceased.
Hezekiah Tappan was reared on the farm on which he was born, and
secured his education during the short winter terms in the old Dillon
school, which was located on the Tappan homestead. On reaching man-
hood he followed in the footsteps of his forefathers, adopting farming as
his vocation, and during his active years was successful in developing
a handsome and valuable property. For some time he specialized in
young stock, and still has an interest in ventures along this line. Since
his retirement he has resided in his comfortable modern residence located
at No. 49 Honey street, North Anderson. Mr. Tappan is known as a
man who is alive to all the important issues of the day, and who takes
an active interest in the welfare of his community. In business circles
he bears an excellent reputation for integrity and honorable dealing, and
everywhere he has the respect and esteem of those who know him.
On the 3d of October. 1894, Mr. Tappan was married to Miss Ger-
trude V. McCarty. and to this union there have been born six children :
Herbert L., Mildred E., Marjorie M., Olive P., Vera L. and Robert Whit-
714 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
eomb. In political matters JMr. Tappan is a Progressive Republican, but
his interest in public matters has been confined to that taken by every
good citizen, and he has never sought or desired public office. He is a
consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
William Melville Croan. Professor Groan is one among the few
who can boast of spending his life in Madison county. With the excep-
tion of a brief residence in Nebraska and Iowa he has lived his three
score years within a few miles of his birthplace.
Professor Croan was born near Anderson on the 23d of July, 1853,
a sou of the Hon. David E. Croan, who was one of Madison county's
progressive, intelligent and successful farmers. The old Croan home-
stead in Richland township is yet pointed out as a model farm residence.
The Hon. David E. Croan was to some extent a politician as weU as a
farmer, and in 1864 he was elected as a Democrat to membership in the
Indiana legislature, where he took a prominent part in the proceedings
of that body and served on important committees. His wife, Rebecca
A., was a daughter of the late Hon. Uriah Van Pelt, one of the early
associate justices of the Circuit court, whose family has always held
prominence in this county.
Professor William M. Croan was from his boyhood a student, and
after mastering the rudiments of the common schools he was placed
under the tutorship of Professor Joseph Franklin in a private school
at Anderson, where he fitted himself for the vocation of a teacher in
the schools of his native state, and was a district teacher, principal,
superintendent and county school superintendent in Madison county.
Afterward he was president of the Western Normal College at Shenan-
doah, Iowa, and Lincoln, Nebraska, for ten years. He is also a graduate
of the North Western Christian University, of Indianapolis, Indiana,
now Butler College, of Irvington, Indiana.
Professor Croan has the distinction of having inaugurated the sys-
tem of graduation from the district schools in Indiana, and under his
direction the first graduating exercises in the common schools of Indi-
ana took place in Madison county. It was while Professor Croan was
county superintendent of schools that he ferreted out the nefarious
practice of selling state board questions and brought the guilty parties
to justice.
As a local correspondent for the Andereon papers over the nom-de-
phime of "Killbuck Crane," Professor Croan developed a taste for jour-
nalism. He became the editor and half owner of the Anderson Democrat
ill 1877, and continued in this capacity until elected county school super-
intendent. The Democrat under the management of Professor Croan
was decidedly one of the best weekly publications in Indiana. Professor
Croan also has the distinction of being the first person to give James
Whitcomb Riley, the Hoosier poet, literary employment, as ilr. Riley
was the local editor under Professor Croan 's management of the Demo-
crat.
On the 16th of October, 1878, Professor Croan was married to
Jessie Fremont Myers, a daughter of Samuel Myers and sister of Cap-
tain William R. Myers, a prominent politician, a member of Congress,
and secretary of the state of Indiana. They were blessed with three
children: David, who died in Anderson in October, 1899, aged twenty
years; Margaret, who died at Shenandoah, Iowa, in May, 1888, at four
years of age ; and Katharine, who was married to Walter Sidney Green-
\ :
{2/^ ^e-^^^-^fr-
-1
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 715
ough, of Indianapolis, at the Croan tome in this city, July 6, 1912.
Mrs. Jesse Myers Croan is a native of the city of Anderson, and is one
of the progressive, intellectual and philanthropic women of this com-
munity. She takes pride in the fact that she is the namesake of Jessie
Fremont, the wife of the great American "path finder." Her father,
Samuel Myers, was one of the early settlers of Anderson township. He
served for many years as a township trustee, and had advanced ideas
of education and did much in the upbuilding of the district schaola
of his locality. Mrs. Croan is one of the literary, philanthropic and
society leaders of Anderson, and belongs to many literary and social
clubs, and was one of the firet women to be appointed on the Library
board of Anderson.
Professor Croan has been engaged in the life insurance business for
several years, in which he has been signally successful, and he is now
vice president and superintendent of agents of one of the great life
insurance companies of the country. He has been a life-long Democrat,
and has always followed the flag of his party. When it has gone down
to defeat his slogan has been "Up and at 'em again." He is an admirer
of Hon. William Jennings Bryan, and during a residence of several
years at Lincoln, Nebraska, was in close personal relations with and
formed a warm friendship for the Great Commoner.
Professor Croan stands high as a Mason, having passed all the
chairs in the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery. He is a
past eminent commander of Anderson Commandery, No. 32, KJnights
Templar, and has also crossed the desert over the hot sands at Indian-
apolis, ami is a Noble of the Mystic Shrine.
Alonzo M. Oswalt. One of the most satisfactory business enter-
prises of Anderson is the Oswalt Printing Company, at whose plant 713-
723 Meridian street they do a general printing business and also manu-
facture paper boxes. This business was established in 1907, and in
1912 was incorporated. It is a well equipped establishment, does aU
the grades of composition work and the best of press work, and in its
various departments is a business which has a more than local patronage.
The firm does printing on contract for many business and stationery
houses over a broad territory, and in the manufacture of paper boxes
it sends its goods to aU parts of this and neighboring states.
The organizer of this important business . concern was Alonzo M.
Oswalt, in his lifetime one of Anderson's most prominent men. He was
born at Mount Sterling, Kentucky, February 2, 1862, and he was reared
and educated in that commonwealth. Moving to Indiana and locating
at Indianapolis, he was in business there for a time, and in 1893 came
to Anderson. In this city -he was for a number of years identified with
the wholesale candy and grocery trade. Later, however, he engaged in
printing, and in 1907 established the Oswalt Printing Company, a con-
cern of which he continued as the head until his death on April 27,
1911. He was one of the active workers and promoters of the Young
Men's Christian Association, and gave much of his time and energy to
that organization. He served as a trustee and deacon in the Congre-
gational church, and fraternally was one of the first members of Anderson
Lodge, No. 1, Loyal Order of Moose, and was also a member of Indian-
apolis' Lodge, No. 56, Knights of Pythias. His death occurred in
Harold Hospital at Noblesville after an unsuccessful operation for
appendicitis, and his body was laid to rest in Maplewood cemetery on
the 30th of April, 1911.
716 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
On the 14th of April, 1881, Mr. Oswalt was married to Miss Mary
Morgan, of Brazil, Indiana, and their four children are: Mrs; H. G.
Wilcox, Mrs. Harry W. Crull, and Ernest and Ben Oswalt, both sons
living in Anderson.
Ernest M. Oswalt, the manager of the Oswalt Printing & Paper
Box Company, is recognized as one of the enterprising and capable young
business men of Anderson. He has been the manager of the enterprise
since the death of his father, the founder. He was born at Brazil,
Indiana, October 2, 1887, and he has lived in Ancjerson since 1893,
receiving his education in the grammar and high school of this city.
From the Anderson High School he entered the Winona Technical Insti-
tute at Indianapolis, where he was graduated in 1907. In leaving that
school of learning he joined his father in the printing business, and
is an expert not only in business management but in the technical details
of aU departments.
Mr. Oswalt is also the owner of ' ' The Springhouse, ' ' a modern con-
fectionery store, and incidentally one of the finest stores of its kind in
the Central States. He is also a member of the board of directors of
the Liberal Life Assurance Company and while not actively engaged
in the management of the Farmers Trust Company, it is understood he
is one of the prominent stock-holders.
On November 4, 1910, Mr. Oswalt was married to Miss Hazel Beck,
a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Beck. Mrs. Oswalt is one of the
accomplished younger members of the Anderson social circles, and both
she and her husband are very popular in the county seat. Mr. Oswalt is
one of the best known Masons in eastern Indiana. His various con-
nections with the order include Fellowship Lodge, No. 681, F. & A. M. ;
Anderson Chapter, No. 52, R. A. M. ; Anderson Commandery, No. 32,
K. T. ; Murat Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Indianapolis. He has also
attained the thirty-second degree in the Scottish Rite, belongs to the
VaUey of Indianapolis, and is a widely read and thoroughly informed
member of the ancient craft. His other fraternal affiliations are with
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Loyal Order of
Moose.
Harry D. Maris. Madison county has a creditable number of sub-
stantial business men who began their careers at the bottom and by
force of individual ability and studious application have become num-
bered among the group of business leaders and foremost merchants. ^T.
Harry D. Maris, president of the R. L. Leeson Company at Alexandria,
is an example of such a man. He is at the head of one of the largest and
best equipped department stores in the county.
Harry D. Maris was born in Orange county, at Paoli, Indiana, on
October 3, 1872. He was one of the children in the family of Thomas
and Anna (White) Maris, both of whom were natives of Indiana. The
paternal grandfather was Aaron Maris, who married Mary Farlow.
They were both born in North Carolina, and were among the pioneer
farmers in Orange county, Indiana, where they died when comparatively
young. Their large family of children were as follows : Mary White of
Billings, Montana; Thomas; Sarah Hubbard of Muskogee, Oklahoma;
Ruth Montgomery of Paoli; Aaron of Paoli. On the mot ar's side the
grandfather was' Abraham White, whose wife was Mary (Lindley)
White. They were also natives of South Carolina, and pioneers in
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 717
Orange county, Indiana, where tliey died, the father when passed middle
age and the mother at seventy-nine years. Their five children were
Thomas L. ; Robert ; Eliza ; Anna, and Amy. Abraham White was for
many years a merchant at Paoli.
Thomas Maris, the father, was reared in Orange county, was a farmer
by occupation, and now lives in Paoli. His wife died in January, 1913,
at the age of seventy-five. The religious affiliations of both parents was
with the Quaker church. Their family consisted of ten children, four
of whom lived to adult life, namely: Oliver L., of DuFrost, Canada;
Samuel L., who died in 1897; Harry D., of Alexander: and Robert, of
Paoli.
Mr. Harry D. Maris spent his youth on his father's farm in Orange
county, and in the meantime attended the district school. At home
up to the age of eighteen, he then began clerking in a store at Paoli, and
during the next three years learned the fundamentals of mercantile
business. Elwood, in Madison county, was the scene of his most impor-
tant advance in business life, and there he entered the employ of ft. L.
Leeson. By his industry and attention to the work in hand he advanced
himself rapidly in the confidehce of his employer, and when Mr. Leeson
established a branch store in Alexandria in 1903, Mr. Maris was selected
as manager. He continued in that capacity until the first of Janu-
ary, 1913, at which time a reorganization was effected and Mr. Maris
became president of what is generally known as the Alexandria Store
Company. This is a department store handling a large stock of dry-
goods, carpets, shoes, groceries and novelties, and employs about forty
people in all its branches. On June 17, 1903, Mr. 'Maris married Miss
Noravine Stafford, daughter of Jacob and Mary (Sims) Stafford. Mrs.
Maris is a native of Lebanon, Indiana, and her parents were also
natives of this state and now living in Alexandria. Of the four chil-
dren Mrs. Maris was the second and the others are Charles; John Staf-
ford, of Fort Wayne ; and Martha Reed, of Indianapolis. The three chil-
dren of Mr. and Mrs. Maris are Robert, Roger, and Martha Ruth. Mr.
Claris is a member of the Christian church. Fraternally he is affiliated
with Alexandria Lodge No. 255, A. F. & A. M., Alexandria Chapter No.
99, R. A. M., Alexandria Council No. 85, R. & S. M., and also with the
Lodge of Elks No. 478 at Alexandria. In politics he is a Republican.
W. H. Fuller. In Monroe township, Madison county, resides one of
the long-time residents and highly-respected citizens of the county
whose name should stand among those at the head of any list of
honored pioneers, who have done their duty, and more, in the develop-
ment of the institutions of civilization in the state of Indiana, A native
of Madison county, he has spent his entire career within its limits,
and has not only won material success, being the owner of three hundred
acres of valuable land, but has also gained what is far more worthy of
attainment, the respect and esteem of his fellow-men. W. H. Puller was
born on the old Fuller homestead place in Richland township, Madison
county.
The Puller family was founded in Madison county by the ^and-
father of W, H. Fuller. John Henry Puller, who brought his family to
this county at an early day and settled on an uncleared farm in the
woods in Richland township. There he removed the timber, broke his
land, developed a farm, and experienced the various hardships which
fall to the lot of the early settler in any undeveloped region, and
718 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
eventually became a substantial agriculturist. Jacob Fuller was a lad
of ten years when he accompanied his parents from Pike county, Ken-
tucky, to Madison county, Indiana, and here he grew to manhood and
was reared to' agricultural pursuits. Educated in the hard school of
practical experience to a realization of the value of thrift, industry and
economy, he was able to make a success of his ventures and to attain a
place among the substantial men of Richland township. He married
Eliza Noble, and they became the parents of the following children:
Tillman, W. H., Willard, Randolph, John and Catherine, of whom W.
H., Jlandolph and John still survive.
Like other farmers' sons of his day and locality, W. H. P\illev divided
his boyhood and youth between attendance at the district schools during
the winter terms and work on the homestead in the summer mouths, thus
receiving a good mental training and at the same time being taught the
duties of the successful agriculturist. On reaching his majority, he
embarked upon a career of his own, beginning agricultural pursuits in
Richland township and subsequently moving to Monroe township, where
he is now located. His first tract of land here was almost wholly un-
cultivated, but by industry and perseverance he cleared it, doing most
of the work with his own hands — grubbing, logging, fencing, ditching,
etc. Subsequently he added to his original purchase, and as each piece
of land has been bought it has been cleared and improved, and suitable
buildings have been erected. The high rewards to be attained by a life
of industry and integrity are shown in Mr. Fuller's career, this fact
being evidenced by his valuable modern homestead.
Mr. Puller was married first to Miss EUa Millspaugh, and to this
■union there were born two children, Tillman and Rena, the latter of
whom is deceased. Mr. Fuller's second marriage was to Miss Cynthiana
Schocy, by whom he had these children : Ollie, who is deceased ; Prank ;
Grover ; Ray Rex ; Pauline ; Muriel ; William ; Gamett, who is deceased.
Mr. Puller is a Democrat in his political views, but has not been par-
ticularly active in public affairs. The members of his family are con-
nected with the Methodist Episcopal and Baptist churches.
Elmer E. Hoel. Many of the most successful agriculturists of Madi-
son county are carrying on operations on farms on which they were
born, their long association with which has made them thoroughly
familiar with soil and climatic conditions and thus has enabled them to
gain a full measure of success from their operations. Prominent among
this class of representative men is Elmer E. Hoel, of Adams township,
tl^e owner of 146 acres of well-cultivated land on .section 15, who is
known in his community as a public-spirited citizen and able man of
business. Mr. Hoel was born on his present farm in Adams township,
Madison county, Indiana, August 6, 1863, and is a son of Martin W. and
Sarah (Richwine) Hoel, both now deceased. His parents were natives
of Ohio and on first coming to Indiana located on land in Rush county,
from whence they subsequently removed to Madison county. Here they
spent the remainder of their lives, making a comfortable home for their
family and developing a good farm. They were highly esteemed in their
community as law-abiding Christian people, who were known for their
charity and hospitality. To them there were born four children,
namely: Elmer E., of this review; Mazie, who became the wife of
George Zukle; William, an agriculturist of Adams township; and
Thomas, who resides in Oklahoma.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY .719
Like other farmers' sons of his day and locality, Elmer E. Hoel
divided his boyhood between attending the district schools of his locality
during the winter months and assisting his father in the work of the
home farm during the summer seasons, and thus grew to majihood,
receiving a liberal mental training, while his physical welfare was not
neglected. He was thoroughly instructed by his father in the numerous
subjects upon whicli the successful farmer and stock raiser should be
informed, and on reaching manhood embarked upon an agricultural
career of his own, and his industry, perseverance and energetic effort
has resulted in a well merited success. He has his tract of 146 acres
under a high state of cultivation, and upon it may be found a full set
of farm buildings, substantial in character and modern in architecture.
He raises large crops which find a ready sale in the adjacent markets,
where his fine cattle bring top-notch prices. For a number of years Mr.
Hoel has operated a threshing machine during the seasons and in this
as in other lines he has achieved satisfactory results. He is progressive
and energetic in all things, and to the possession of these qualities may
be attributed much of his success.
On February 16, 1890, Mr. Hoel was married to Miss Lydia Bowers,
who was born, reared and educated in Henry county, Indiana, and to
this union there have been bom two children : Thamer, born September
22, 1891, who received his education in the public schools of Adams
township, and is now assisting his father in the cultivation of the home-
stead; and Chrystal, born Febriiary 3, 1897, who is still attending the
public schools. In addition, Mr. and Mrs. Hoel are rearing two nieces,
Elizabeth B. Bowers and Ruby Garnett. Mr. and Mrs. Hoel are honest,
hospitable people, whose home is ever open to theii* hosts of friends.
They are consistent members of the Christian church and have been
active in religious and charitable movements. Mr. Hoel's political
affiliations are with the Democratic party, but outside of taking a good
citizen 's interest in matters that pertain to the welfare of his section, he
has not been active in political matters.
Henry V. Beck. An industrious and well-to-do agriculturist of Van
Buren township, Henry V. Beck holds an assured position among its
respected citizens, his industry, uprightness, and neighborly dealing hav-
ing gained for him the confidence and esteem of the community in which
he has so long lived. A native of Madison county, he was born in
1846, in Monroe township, of pioneer ancestry.
His father, John Beck, came from North Carolina to Indiana, settling
in Madison county while a large part of the country roundabout was in
its pristine wildness. Taking up a tract of land from the Government,
he erected a log cabin for the use of himself and family, and labored
with true pioneer grit and courage to redeem a farm from the wilder-
ness. He married Mary E. Shelton. who was likewise a native of North
Carolina, and she ably assisted him in his efforts to establish a home,
doing her full share of the pioneer work, which included the carding,
spinning and weaving of the homespun material in which she clothed her
little family, which consisted, beside herself and husband, of two chil-
dren, namely: Elizabeth, who married a IMr. Woods; and Henry V.,
the special subject of this brief biographical sketch.
As a boy and youth Henry V. Beck attended the "Whitehall achool,
a pioneer institution of learning in which he obtained a practical knowl-
edge of the common branches of study. When out of school he assisted
720 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
his father in clearing and improving a homestead, gaining wisdom and
experience in regard to agriculture. When ready to start in life as a
farmer, Mr. Beck rented land in Van Buren township, and managed it so
eflBciently and well that he saved money, and when he had accumulated
a sufficient sum to warrant him in becoming a landholder he bought his
present farm of seventy -nine acres, which is finely located on the Ander-
son and Marion road, or pike, about two miles north of Summitville.
Mr. Beck married, in 1866, Nancy Hoppes, daughter of Samuel and
Lavina Hoppes, and of the nine children born of their union seven
are living, namely : Cornelia, wife of a Mr. Johnson ; Alma, wife of Mr.
Simmons; John; Oley; Mert; Fleet; and Burrel. Religiously Mr. and
Mrs. Beck are members of the Christian church, and have reared their
children in the same faith.
Habey Savage. Some of the most successful of Madison county's
farmers are men of the younger generation, who are applying modern
methods to their work with very satisfactory results. In this class is
Harry Savage, the owner of a weU-cultivated and valuable property of
eighty acres, located on the Gillman road, in Monroe township. Mr.
Savage has been the architect of his own fortunes, in that the success
he has achieved has come as a direct result of his own efforts, for when
he embarked upon his career he was given neither financial assistance nor
the support of influential friends. He is a native of Madison county,
having been born in the vicinity of Perkinsville, in Jackson township,
in 1883, and. is a son of Walter and Nancy (Welchom) Savage. His
father, a native- of the state of Iowa, migrated to Indiana as a young
man, and here has passed his subsequent career, being one of the sub-
stantial citizens of Jackson township, where he owns a large tract of
land. He and his wife have been the parents of seven children, namely :
Gertrude, who became the wife of Mr. Brown ; Harry ; Glenn ; Warren,
who married Myrtle Hancock; Ray; Everett; and Orval, who is deceased.
Harry Savage received his education in the graded schools of the
city of Anderson, and during his vacation periods assisted his father
in the cultivation of the home farm. At the time of his marriage he
gave up his employment in the mills of that city and turned his atten-
tion to agricultural pursuits, starting in a modest manner and gradu-
ally increasing the extent of his operations. Mr. Savage is now the
owner of a well-developed tract of eighty acres, which repays him for
the intelligent and industrious labor he has expended upon it, and the
success which has come to him is but the just reward therefor. In addi-
tion to general farming, he has engaged in stock raising, and he now has
a large herd of well-fed, sleek cattle, his stock at all times commanding
top-notch prices in the markets.
In January, 1909, Mr. Savage was married to Mrs. Fannie (Hood)
Duffy, widow' of Ed. Duffy, by whom she had one son — Harold. Two
children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Savage: Paul and Nancy.
Richard Hood, the father of Mrs. Savage, was born in Rush county,
Indiana, and as a young man came to Madison county, Indiana, purchas-
ing a farm about one mile west of Alexandria, on which he carried on
operations during the remainder of his active career. He married Mary
Ellsworth, whose father was a Scotchman by birth, and who removed to
Ireland and thence to the United States, settling at an early time in
Madison county. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hood are now deceased. They
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 721
were the parents of two children: Fannie, who married Mr. Savage;
and Bella, who was married September 29, 1910, and has one child.
Mr. Savage is a member of Prible Lodge of the Masonic fraternity,
in which he has numerous friends. He has devoted his entire atten-
tion to the cultivation of the soil and to his home, and has had neither
time nor inclination to enter public life.
W. Edward Terwilliger. Four miles east of Elwood on the Dundee
pike is situated one of the finest rural homes of Madison county, excel-
lent not alone in the fertility of its soil and the value of its crops, but
also for its many exceptional improvements. The Terwilliger farm com-
prises two hundred and thirty-three and a half acres of rolling and well
drained land, and i\Ir. Terwilliger is devoting its acreage to general farm-
ing and stock raising. He has shown much enterprise in his business
career, and enjoys the respect and admiration always paid to a success-
ful man.
W. Edward Terwilliger was born September 8, 1885, in Allen county,
Ohio, near the city of Lima. His parents are D. F. and Flora (Crider)
Tervdlliger. His father is a well known farmer and land owner and is
county commissioner of Madison county. The children in the family
of the parents are named as follows: Oscar; W. Edward; Harvey;
Bertha ; Lilly ; Ethel ; Arthur, and Alton.
W. Edward Terwilliger was a child when the fahiily left Allen
county, Ohio, and moved to Tipton county, Indiana, his father locating
in what was then a swamp, but is iiow considered among the best land
in Indiana. Mr. Terwilliger was married October 3, 1906, to Miss Nora
Glass, daughter of J. H. and Otilda (Meyer) Glass. Mrs. Terwilliger
was the only child of her parents, and she had the advantages of a good
home and was well educated. Mr. and Mrs. Terwilliger have one child,
Jean, born December 12, 1907. The family worship in the Presbyterian
church.
John D. Hats. In the vicinity of Frankton is the old Wise home-
stead, familiarly known throughout this region, and now occupied by
Mr. John D. Hays, one Of the progressive agriculturists and public spir-
ited citizens of this part of the county. Mr. Hays operates one hundred
and sixty acres of land, raises grain and stock, and each year turns over
a good amount of business to the credit side of his ledger.
John D. Hays was born September 30, 1866, in Rush county, Indiana,
a son of Alexander and Margaret (Duncan) Hays. By occupation his
father was also a farmer, and during the period of the Civil war served
as a Union soldier, enduring the hardships of many campaigns during
that great war. There were two other children in the family, namely,
Lindy, the wife of E. Harold, and the mother of twelve children; and
Pearl, who married a Mr. Fowler.
John D. Hays spent his youth in Rush county, was reared on a farm
and attended common schools, and had a practical training in the occu-
pation which he has made his vocation in life. Mr. Hays married Miss
Cora Reason, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Morris) Reason. Her
father was born and reared in Rush county, was a farmer who owned a
large amount of land in that section and is still living there. In the
Reason family were eighteen children, most of whom grew up and
acquired an honorable and substantial position in life. The five chil-
dren of Mr. and Mrs. Hays are Fay. Raymond, Ivan, Gurma and Gerald.
722 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
The last three are now attending school. Mr. Hays is a member of the
Improved Order of Red Men, votes the Republican ticket and he and
his family worship in the Christian church.
"William Penn Cunningham. The history of the business achieve-
ment of William Penn Cunningham is one that is well worthy of men-
tion in this work, and is one that shows forth the sturdy qualities of the
man better than mere words of praise could ever do. From a small
beginning, one bit of advancement has steadily and consistently followed
another, year by year, until he has long since been reckoned among the
more successful and prosperous farming men of the community or of
the county. His property, indeed, extends into Delaware county, a fine
place of one hundred acres lying just across the line between Madison
and Delaware counties. His Madison county farm comprises a forty-
acre tract, and other property also figures significantly upon his tax list.
He has long taken a leading part in the community that holds his abid-
ing place, and shares in the esteem and regard of the best people of the
town.
William Penn Cunningham was born in 1860, the first day of Febru-
ary being his natal day, and West Virginia the place of his birth. He
is a son of Benjamin and Nancy (Thompson) Cunningham, the father
a man of Scotch parentage, but of Virginia birth and breeding. He
was the son of 'Thomas Cunningham, w^ho came to these shores from his
native Scotland in young manhood, and in West Virginia established the
family. Benjamin Cunningham entered upon a farming life and was
fairly prosperous in his ambitions. He reared a family of ten children,
named as follows : Anna ; Alice, deceased ; George ; David, deceased ;
William Penn ; Samuel, deceased ; Joseph ; Kate ; Ida ; Sarah, and Mary.
In common with his brothers and sisters, William Cunningham
attended the district schools of his day in West Virginia, and he was
twenty years old when he left his Virginia home and came to Henry
county, Indiana. In his boyhood home, he had been proficiently trained
in the work of the farm, and he hired out to a farmer in Henry county,
with whom he worked for four consecutive years. He later took up rail-
road work and was employed as foreman of a crew for some time, but
gave up the work to identify himself once more with farm life. It was his
wish, however, to reach a degree of independence in his work, and instead
of hiring his services to some farmer, he rented a farm which he pro-
ceeded to operate on his own responsibility. He had soon realized a
profit sufficient to permit his purchase of a piece of land comprising
twenty-seven acres, which he was able to add to from time to time, by
the exercise of his best judgment and by practicing a rigid economy in
everything. He lived on his original purchase of twenty -seven acres for
three years, then moved to another farm in the vicinity of Sulphur
Springs, and for eight years the home of the family was located there. It
was then that the truck farming idea seized Mr. Cunningham, and he
bought fifteen acres of fine land which he devoted to truck gardening
exclusively, and was rewarded for his foresight by a tidy sum that he
realized from a few seasons of work. The next purchase that Mr. Cun-
ningham made was that of a 160 acre tract near Delaville, Indiana,
which he later sold and bought the Moffett farm. This also proved to be
a good "buy" and he sold it in turn, realizing quite a sum from the
transaction. He later bought another hundred acres and upon this place
he located his son. His next purchase was a Middletown property and
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 723
some two years ago he bought his present place, which he put in fine
shape, making a number of splendid improvements, and bringing it up to
a high standard of excellence.
In 1884 Mr. Cunningham was married to Emma Lovett, the daughter
of David and Vashti Lovett, the father a West Virginian by birth, and
an early settler of Adams county, Ohio. Both parents are now deceased.
One son has been born to Mi', and Mrs. Cunningham, Laurell L., who
married OUie Bronnenberg. They have one child, jMerrill.
The family are members of the Church of the Seven Day Adventists,
and are active in the work of that body.
James F. Madden. JIanager of the P. ^Madden Grocery at 809 South
Harrison street in Alexandria, Mr. Gladden has been identified with the
business enterprise of Madison county for the past sixteen or seventeen
years, having come here with his father, the late Patrick Gladden, who
established the present grocery house in Alexandria. Three generations
of the Madden family have lived in Indiana, and the various members
have always borne the responsibilities of life with credit and "honor and
have given much to their respective commiinities through their honest and
effective industry. ,
James F. Madden was l)orn in Richmond, Indiana, November 19, 1863,
a son of Patrick and Ann (ilerrigan) Madden. The paternal grand-
father was Bernard Madden, who married Letitia Rafferty. He was a
hard worker all his life, though he never followed a profession or any of
the skilled trades. His death occurred at Richmond, Indiana, and his
wife's in Rushville, this state, the former at the age of sixty-two and the
latter when about ninety-one years of age. There were ten children in
the family, three of whom died when young, and the seven who reached
maturity were Patrick, John, Bernard, Thomas, JMary Ann, Ellen and
Michael. On the mother's side the grandfather was James Merrigan, who
married Catherine Kinnej'. Both were natives of County Longford,
Ireland, and came to America and landed at New Orleans on June 2,
1850. After living for one year in Cincinnatti, they came to Indiana,
locating in Cambridge City, where James Merrigan followed various pur-
suits. His death occurred when he was about fifty years of age. His wife
died in Rushville at the age of eighty-five. In Ireland they had followed
the occupation of farming. The four children in the Merrigan family
were John ; Bridget, who married Matthew Cunningham ; Maria, who
married James Stuart ; and Ann, wife of Patrick Madden.
The late Patrick Madden was twelve years of age when he came to
America with his parents. They first settled at Sjrraeiise, New York,
where he grew to manhood. His first regular occupation was farming,
after which he took up railroading, and about the time he reached man-
hood he moved to Richmond, Indiana, with bis parents. After his
marriage he moved to New Madison, Ohio, where he continued in the
railroad service. He remained at New Madison six years, after which
he came to Rushville, Indiana, thence moving to Cincinnati, which was
his home for four years, and in 1896 establislijed a grocery business at
Alexandria. He was a capable and energetic business man, and eon-
ducted a successful grocery at Alexandria until his death, which
occurred May 21, 1912, when he was seventy-seven years and seventeen
days old.
The late Patrick Madden on the fifteenth day of December, 1862, mar-
ried Miss Ann Merrigan, who was born in County Longford, while her
724 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
husband was a native of County Alayo, Ireland. They became the par-
ents of ten children, nine of whom lived to maturity, the names being
as follows : James P. ; Mary ; Lillian ; Bernard ; John P. ; Catherine,
wife of Charles T. O'Brien; Emma; Ida; Florence; and Cecelia, who
died when two years of age. The parents were both devout members
of the Catholic church, and the mother is still living in Alexandria,
where she and her family enjoy a host of friends.
James F. Madden spent a considerable part of his boyhood in Rush-
ville, where he obtained his first schooling. He went to Cincinnati,
0., where he began his career as a railroader, being a railroad clerk in
the operating service, but gave up that occupation to accompany the
family to Alexandria, in 1896. Since that time he has been his father's
manager in the grocery business, and the success of the enterprise has
been largely due to his ability to make friends and customers, and to
furnish first-class goods at fair prices. Mr. Madden is independent in
politics, and sees more in business than he does in party activities. He
is an enterprising, public spirited, business man, and enjoys the full
respect and esteem of all his community.
Prof. Joseph L. Clausee. The educator of today is called upon
to meet and overcome many obstacles of which those of an older day
knew practically nothing. The enlarging of the curriculum of the pub-
lic schools, with the demand for the practice of pedagogy, necessitates
a long and careful training, and assiduous subsequent study and re-
search on the part of those to whom is entrusted the molding of the
plastic mind of youth. Popular demand has resulted in the produc-
tion of a class of men who as educators have had no equal in the history
of the world. Their profound knowledge of their work, their keen
enthusiasm for their honored calling, their sound judgment and keen
insight into human nature, all go to make them eminently able to give
to each pupil the individual attention now regarded as so necessary
for the proper rounding out of character. Among the men of Madi-
son county who have distinguished themselves as educators in a broad
and comprehensive way, none is more worthy of mention' than Prof.
Joseph L. Clauser, superintendent of the public schools of Elwood.
For nearly a quarter of a century he has been devoted to his profes-
sion, and his rise therein has been steady and consistent, until today
he stands among the foremost men of his profession in this part of the
State. Prof. Clauser was born at Owasco, Indiana, June 12, 1869, and
is a son of William and Caroline (Kuhns) Clauser, natives of Pennsyl-
vania.
Joseph Clauser, the paternal grandfather of Joseph L. Clauser, was
born in the Keystone State, and was there engaged in agricultural pur-
suits throughout a long and useful life, passing away full of years and
honored by all who knew him. His wife, who bore the maiden name of
Mary Gross, was also born in that State, and like her husband, attained
advanced age. They were the parents of but two children: William
and Mary. Henry Kuhns, the maternal grandfather of Prof. Clauser,
was also born in Pennsylvania, and was a farmer by occupation. At
an early day he came with his family to Clinton county, Indiana, where
he settled on a large tract of land, and became one of the substantial
farmers of his section. Mr. Kuhns married Catherine Zi merman, of
Pennsylvania, and they died in old age, having been the parents of
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 725
the following children : David, Charles, Jonas, Samuel, Catherine, Eliza-
beth and Caroline.
William Clauser was born in Pennsylvania, and in that State grew
to manhood on his father's farm, his education being secured in the
district schools. When still a young man he migrated to Carroll county,
Indiana, where he became an early settler, locating on a farm near
Owasco. There he spent the remainder of his life, clearing his land and
making a comfortable home for his family, and winning the regard and
esteem of those who had transactions of any nature with him. His
death occurred on the homestead in 1888, when he was sixty-seven years
of age, his wife having passed away during the previous year, when
she was fifty-eight years old. Both were faithful to the teachings of
the Lutheran Church, and reared their children in that belief. Their
family consisted of ten children, as follows: William H., who is a resi-
dent of Delphi, Indiana; Samuel P., who also makes his home at Delphi;
John F., who is a resident near Owasco, Indiana ; Charles E., who is
deceased; Dr. George A., a well known practicing physician of Bridge-
water, South Dakota; Albert F,, who is deceased; Prof. Joseph L., of
this review ; Amos C, who is deceased ; and one child who died in in-
fancy. There was but one daughter, Sarah, who died at the age of
sixteen.
The early education of Prof. Joseph L. Clauser was secured in the
district schools in the vicinity of his father's farm near Owasco and
like other farmers' lads his training was limited to the short winter
terms, the rest of the year being spent in the work of the homestead.
He was thoroughly trained in agricultural matters, but it was not the
young man's intention to become a tiller of the soil, and he later se-
cured the opportunity to take a course in the Northern Indiana Nor-
mal school. Following this he became a student in the Indiana State
Normal School, at Terre Haute, Indiana, from which well-known in-
stitution he was graduated in 1902. In 1908 he was the recipient of
the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from the Indiana
State University, at Bloomington, and later took similar degrees in
Columbia University, New York. Prof. Clauser entered upon his ca-
reer as an educator in l8£9, and since that year has taught each year
except one, that in which he was securing his degrees. For six years
he was a teacher in the schools of Carroll county, Indiana, and subse-
quently became superintendent of schools at Rossville, a position which
he also held for six years. During a like period of time, he was super-
intendent of the city schools of Mitchell, Indiana, and he was then called
to the same position in Elwood, where he has labored during the last
five years. A learned scholar, thorough and conscientious in his work,
with that happy faculty for imparting his own knowledge to others,
he is withal an attractive, pleasant man, who makes friends easily and
retains them by the force of his personality. He is popular alike with
teachers, pupils and parents, while his able handling of the educational
problems that have come before him has gained him the entire confi-
dence of the general public.
On September 4, 1895, Prof. Clauser was married to Miss EfiBe
Weaver, who was born at Cutler. Carroll county, Indiana, daughter of
William H. and Martha A. (Long) Weaver, and granddaughter of
Samuel Weaver. Her father, a native of Indiana, died at the age of
seventy-eight years, in Carroll county, while her mother, also a native
of theHoosier State, is still living at Cutler, and is now in her seventy-
726 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
eight year. They had a large family, of whom five children are now
living: Addie, Josephine, Margaret, Effie and Mabel. Prof, and Mrs.
Clauser have had three children : Earl Durward, Joseph Weaver and
Martha Karolyn.
Prof, and Mrs. Clauser are members of the Presbyterian Church, in
which he has served as an elder for several years. He has interested
himself to some extent in fraternal work, and is a popular member of
Mitchell Lodge No. 228, F. & A. M., of which he is past master; El-
wood Lodge, Knights of Pythias; and Elwood Lodge, Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks. He has not cared to enter political life.
John Conner, the owner of 213 acres of land, holds undisputed
prestige among the agriculturists of his community, where he has passed
his entire life. Although his operations have been of such an extensive
nature as to make him an extremely busy man, he has ever been alert to
the needs of his locality, and at no time has refused to give his support
to measures of a beneficial nature. Mr. Conner was born in a little log
house on his present farm, June 19, 1864, and is a son of Levi and
Marietta (Tuttle) Conner.
The family was founded in Madison county, Indiana, by the grand-
parents of Mr. Conner, John and Ada (Ogden) Conner, who brought
their children from Meigs county, Ohio, entering eighty acres of land
in Richland township in 1832. Levi Conner was bom in the Buckeye
State, February 29, 1832, and was brought as a child to this county,
being reared on the old homestead and securing his education in the
primitive district schools of his day. He was brought up to agricultural
pursuits, followed in the foot-steps of his father, and became one of the
wealthy and influential men of his community and a citizen who at all
times had the welfare of his section at heart. At one time he owned
an estate of 960 acres. His death occurred July 25, 1904. He was
a Republican politically and a member of the Christian church. He
and his wife were the parents of five children, of whom three are living:
Katherine, who married Charles Hurley and their children are Levi
Joshua, Louie Belle and Dale ; Rosa, became the wife of John Hancock
and their children are Mai-y Rebecca, Eva Marie, Willie, Charles Alva
and George Levi; John is the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Conner was
born on the 15th of October, 1840.
John Conner received his education in the old schoolhouse which was
located on the homestead place, and here grew to manhood, being trained
to habits of industry, economy and right living. At the time of his
father's retirement from active life he was made manager of the vast
estate, and since the older man's death he has continued to operate the
property for the other heirs. He has also engaged in extensive opera-
tions on his own account, and has accumulated a tract of 213 acres of
land which through able management and scientific treatment he has
made to pay him in a handsome manner for his labors. Although Mr.
Conner devotes the greater part of his attention to general farming, he
has also made a success of his stock raising ventures, and is known as
one of the best judges of cattle in his community. "The home place is
situated on Anderson Rural Route, back of the State Road, where are
located a modern residence, substantial barns and well-built outbuildings,
the entire property being made valuable by improvements of handsome
appearance and modern character.
Mr. Conner was married to Miss Elizabeth Haney, a native of this
HISTORY OP^ MADISON COUNTY 727
county, daughter of Jonas aiid Minerva (BuflBngton) Haney. Mr.
Haney came from Ohio, and is now one of the very prominent farmers
of Richland township. Mr. and Mrs. Conner have no children. They
attend the Methodist Episcopal church, are prominent in its affairs, and
have at all times lent their support to its movements. An enthusiastic
hunter and fisherman, when he can lay aside the duties of his extensive
interests Mr. Conner slips away with rod and gun, and seldom returns
without some specimen of the furry or finny tribes which have fallen
victims to his skill.
Ch.vrles H. Thompson. One of the prosperous farmers of La-
fayette township, a soldier of the Civil war, Charles H. Thompson has
for fifty years been a resident of this county, where he began his ca-
reer as a poor man, by thrift and industry, year by year accumulated
a liberal additional prosperity and is now an influential and substan-
tial citizen. Mr. Thompson owns a fine farm of one hundred and forty
acres, located on the xVnderson road about three quarters of a mile north
of the village of Florida.
Charles H. Thompson is a native of Albermarle county, Virginia,
where he was born in 1842. The family moved to Kentucky when he
was a baby and he was reared in Fleming county, Kentucky, on a farm.
His parents were William and Elizabeth (Blankenship) Thompson. His
father was a Kentucky farmer, where he spent the remainder of his
career, and never came to Indiana except on a visit. He was one of
the early settlers in his part of the old Blue Grass state.
IMr. Thompson was reared in Kentucky, and received a common
scliool education in that state. In September. 1862, when he was twenty
years of age, he entered the Union forces as a private in the Eighteenth
Regiment of Kentucky Infantry, and during the following years saw
active service in Tennessee, South Carolina and West Virginia. In
1863 he came to Indiana and began work as a farm laborer at monthly
wages. He was a hard worker, was economical, and finally secured
enough to enable him to purchase a small tract of land which was the
nucleus around which he has built up his present substantial estate.
In 1865 Mr. Thompson married Miss Mary Ann Jenkins. They are
the parents of one child, Isaac, who married Amanda Bodkin, and they
are the parents of two children, Charles and George. Mr. Thompson
is affiliated with the Grand Army Post, and is a Democrat in politics.
He and his family attend the Methodist church.
W. F. Scott, ]M. D. The contemporary biographer is usually asked to
face a difficult task in attempting to sketch a review of the life of an indi-
vidual who has in a direct, or indirect, manner, as it may have been,
impressed himself upon his community. It is usually found that those
who have achieved distinction are those who are least willing to allow
themselves their undoubted privilege of giving to the public the secrets
of their success, feeling, perhaps, that by so doing they are violating the
rules (if their calling be of a professional nature) of their calling. How-
ever, in the ease of Dr. W. F. Scott, of Linwood, the narrator is not
called upon to delineate the character of his subject, for thirty years of
earnest endeavor and conscientious service have made an introduction
unnecessarj' to the people in whose community he has spent the best years
of his life. Dr. W. F. Scott is a West Virginian, born at Morgantown,
Monongalia county, June 29, 1852, a son of Stanford B. and Anna
(Tibbs) Scott. His father, a farmer by occupation, brought the family .
728 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
to Madison county about 1868, and settled on a tract of land situated west
of Florida, this farm being still known as the Scott homestead. Of the
family of eight children, four are living : W. P., of this review ; Burt ;
Mrs. Louise Frum, and Mrs. Mary Vance.
Although he was but sixteen years of age when brought to Madison
county. Dr. Scott had already decided upon a professional career, and
had mastered the rudimentary principles of medicine. He completed his
studies in the State College, at Indianapolis, and during this time added
to the resources necessary to put him through this institution by teaching
school in Anderson township. His preparation completed and his
diploma secured, he entered at once upon the practice of his profession
at Linwood, and since that time he has been in the enjoyment of a
constantly increasing practice. Dr. Scott specializes along no lines.
His practice calls him frequently into the country, but this coincides
with his inclination, for he has ever been a lover of the fresh out-door
life. He has invested his means in real estate in Linwood, where he
owns three valuable properties, and in addition to these has a hand-
some, well-cultivated farm of eighty acres lying in Lafayette and
Morgan townships.
On September 27, 1886, Dr. Scott was married to Miss Ada Conk-
ling, daughter of Isaac and Matilda L. (Patton) Conkling, and four
children have been born to this union : Chester P., who married Esther
Finfrock, and has one son — Benjamin P. ; Grace E., who married Albert
B. Mead, and has a daughter — Helen Virginia ; Mrs. Florence Hollen-
beck, who has three children — Harvey S., H. Roberta and Garland C;
and one who died in infancy. Dr. Scott keeps well abreast of the ad-
vancements of his profession and takes a keen interest in the work of
the various medical organizations. His fraternal connection is with the
Odd Fellows.
Austin Brumbaugh. Since 1910 mayor of Elwood, Mr. Brum-
baugh is one of the citizens whose residence, success in business, and
high personal character entitle them to the best distinctions in public
bfe, where their previous record insures faithful and intelligent service
in behalf of the public welfare. As chief executive of the city, Mr.
Brumbaugh has been an actual as well as a nominal leader of local
government and affairs, and is doing much in both his public and
private capacity to make Elwood one of the best commercial centers of
eastern Indiana.
Austin Brumbaugh was bom in Huntington, Indiana, September
20, 1868, a son of Frederick and Amanda C. (Hoover) Brumbaugh,
the father a native of Pennsylvania, and the mother a native of Ohio.
The paternal grandparents were Henry and Rebecca (Waltz) Brum-
baugh, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania and of German
descent. The former followed the occupation of carpenter and farmer,
and he died in Huntington county, Indiana, at the age of sixty-seven.
His wife lived on to the great age of ninety-seven. They had a large
family, several of whom died in youth, and the others are mentioned as
follows : John ; Isaac : Frederick ; William ; Daniel ; Rebecca, who mar-
ried Jacob Palmer; Charlotte, who married Samuel Friedley. The
maternal grandparents of the Elwood mayor were Christopher and
Susanna Hoover, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of
Indiana. They were among the early settlers of Huntington county,
whet-e they died in advanced years. Their four children were : Sarah,
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 729
wife of George W. Jewett; Ainarlda C, the mother of Mr. Brumbaugh;
Maria, wife of William Brumbaugh ; and Anderson Hoover.
Frederick Brumbaugh, the father, was a youth when he accom-
panied his parents to Huntington county, Indiana, and grew up to
manhood there amid pioneer conditions. He was reared on a farm,
but subsequently became a general contractor and followed that busi-
ness with substantial success during the rest of his life. His death
occurred in Huntington in 1910 at the age of seventy-three. His wife
survives him, and they were both members of the German Baptist or
Dunkard faith. Ten children were born into their household, seven of
them reaching maturity as follows: James H., of Huntington; Laura,
wife of George W. Krumanaker, of Tipton; Austin, of Elwood;
Florence, wife of Clark M. Miller, of Chicago; William J., of Chicago;
Elnora, wife of Warren T. McLain, of Chicago ; Bertha, wife of Leonard
B. Cortright, of Chicago.
Reared in the city of Huntington, where he attended the public
schools, Mr. Austin Brumbaugh first chose as his practical occupation
the trade of carpenter, and worked at that with his father. Four years
were next spent in railroading, and he then began the manufacture of
ice cream in Chicago. In March, 1904, he located at Elwood, where
he established an ice cream business and still conducts as one of the
important local concerns of this city. ,
Mr. Brumbaugh in 1910 was elected to his present office of mayor,
and has occupied the chief place in the city hall to the present time.
In politics he is a Democrat, but his chief concern and characteristic is
good citizenship. Fraternally he is affiliated with Quincy Lodge No.
230 A. F. & A. M. ; Elwood Chapter No. 109 R. A. M. ; with Alexandria
Council No. 85 R. & S. ]\I. ; and Adoniram Lodge of Perfection, and
also the thirty-second degree of Scottish Rites. He is also affiliated
with th£ Chicago Lodge No. 55 I. 0. 0. F. at Chicago, and with Elwood
Lodge No. 368 of the Order of Elks. Mr. and Mrs. Brumbaugh are both
members of the Methodist church.
On April 6, 1900, he married Miss Anna Henry, a daughter of John
Henry. She was born in Allen county, near Fort Wayne.
Edgar E. Davis. Twenty-one years in the furniture and under-
taking business at Alexandria have made Edgar E. Davis one of the
oldest established and most successful merchants of the city, and along
with mercantile success he has been an influential factor in the social
life and civic activities of his portion of i\Iadison county.
Mr. Davis is a native of Rush county, born in the town of Arlington,
July 15, 1863. His parents were Benjamin F. and Nancy A. (Arnett)
Davis, both natives of Ohio. The paternal grandfather, Thomas Davis,
whose wife was Mary (Sells) Davis, was bom in North Carolina, was
a farmer, and in an early day brought his family to Rush county.
Subsequently he moved to Frankton in Madison county, where he
spent the declining years of his life and died at a good old age. His
wife died near the city of Wabash. Their three children were Armenus,
a Methodist minister, who is now in Port Townsend, Washington ; Clara,
wife of Joseph Campbell, of Frankton; and Benjamin E. The mater-
nal grandfather was James Arnett. who lived with his family at Arling-
ton, Indiana, where he was in business as general storekeeper. He died
there when past eighty years of age, and his family included the children
730 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Nancy A., Mrs. James Page, Mrs. Delia Dwiggins, Jefferson Arnett, Mrs.
Williamson Seott and William.
Benjamin F. Davis, the father, was reared in Ohio, and then came
when the country was new, to Rush county, Indiana. By trade he was
a wagon-maker and blacksmith and had his shop for many years at
Frankton, in Madison county, where he still resides, being now in the
furniture and undertaking business. His good wife is a member of the
Methodist church. Their children, six in number, are mentioned as
follows: Ella, deceased, who was the wife of Thomas L. DeHority, of
Anderson; Charles, of Seattle, Washington; MoUie, now the wife of
William Simmons, of Frankton, Indiana; Edgar E. ; Gertrude, deceased,
who was the wife of Fred Alexander, of Noblesville, Indiana; and Rosa,
the wife of Frank Troop, of Frankton, Indiana.
Edgar E. Davis was reared in Frankton, from the time he was three
years of age. His schooling was in the public institutions, and he
acquitted himself so well in his studies that he was granted a license to
teach and followed that occupation during one term. He then turned
to the blacksmith trade, with which he had become familiar and skillful
when a boy, and worked at that until after his marriage. He lived at
Rigdon and followed his trade for eight years. He then came to Alex-
andria, and established himself in the furniture and undertaking busi-
ness, and his store and service have been an important part of the mer-
cantile enterprise of the city for twenty-one years. His establishment
is located at 224 North Harrison street. Mr. Davis was honored by
election to the office of secretary of the Indiana Funeral Directors ' Asso-
ciation, and in 1903 he was elected president of this association.
On the 21st of June, 1883, he married Miss Louie Smith, a daughter
of Jeremiah and Hester (Winship) Smith. Their two children are
named Donna Fay and Glendon Guy. Donna Fay married Bloomer J.
Pickard, who is now deceased, leaving one daughter, Georgia Ruth;
Glendon Guy died at the age of twenty-one years on November 27, 1907.
Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Methodist church in Alexandria,
and Mr. Davis has for many years been a worker and official, being now
trustee and treasurer. He is affiliated with Alexandria Lodge No. 235
A. F. & A. M. ; Alexandria Chapter No. 99 R. A. M. ; Alexandria Coun-
cil No. 85 R. & S. M., also with Necessity Lodge No. 222 I. O. O. F.,
having also attained the Encampment and Canton degrees of this order ;
and with the Improved Order of Red Men. In politics he is a Republican.
Mrs. Davis is a native of Rush county, her mother being a native of the
same county, and her father of Kentucky. The family subsequently
moved to Madison county, where the parents died. Her father was
killed in a railroad accident a few years ago, and her mother died in
December, 1907. Mrs. Davis was the only child.
LeRot Free. Since the pioneer times in Madison county, few fam-
ilies have borne so well the duties and responsibilities of citizenship
as the Free family, one of the most prominent representatives of which
in the present generation is LeRoy Free, the present trustee of Lafay-
ette township. The various members of the family have for many
years been identified with the agricultural industry of the county, and all
have made worthy names and been materially prosperous in their in-
dividual lives.
LeRoy Free was born on the homestead which he still occupies in
Lafavette townshin. on August 20, 1878. He is a son of George and
i
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 731
Jane (Clay) Free. His father came from Ross county, Ohio, and was
a boy when the family located in Madison county. The founders of
the Free family in this county were the paternal grandparents, Abra-
ham and, Cynthia (Van Meter) Free. Their settlement here occurred
about 1852, along about the time the first railroad was constructed
through the county, and when the county was still only a few years
away from its pioneer conditions. They located in Lafayette town-
ship, and George Free attended the early schools of that locality and
was reared on a farm which when the family first occupied it had been
Little developed since its primitive condition. George Free and wife
became the pai-ents of four children, named as foUows: Hattie, who
is now Mrs. Alexander, with residence near Frankton; LeRoy; Charles
and Cloe.
LeRoy Free during his boyhood attended the common schools and
as soon as he was able to wield any of the farm implements he began his
active labors as a helper about the homestead. He has been a success-
ful member of the agricultural community, and has interested himself
in aU public-spirited endeavora in this vicinity.
It is his record as township trustee during the past four years that
has brought Mr. Free into prominence as a factor in public affairs, and
so well has he discharged the duties of that important position in one
township that he is now regarded as the most eligible Democratic can-
didate for the nomination to the office of county auditor. His election
to the position of trustee came with a gratifying majority, which was a
tribute both to his personal standing and to his recognized efficiency as an
administrator of the township affairs. Under the accounting law, passed
a few years ago by the legislature, Mr. Free has the honor of receiving
the first report issued iu the state. The schools of Lafayette township
in the past four years have made more notable progress toward effi-
ciency than could be claimed of any other similar locality in Madison
county, and the chief credit for this improvement is due to Trustee Free.
The school No. 9 which was constructed under his supervision has the
distinction of being the first building to comply with the sanitary laws
of the state. While trustee of Lafayette township he has directed the
construction of three school buildings, and has in addition looked after
many other affairs affecting the territory under his efficient jurisdiction.
As a member of the board of education of Madison county he has again
and again made his influence felt in the direction of progress, and thus
the example set by him in one township has proved stimulating to the
other constituent parts of the county.
His work in connection with the schools, while perhaps first in import-
ance, has not solely occupied his time and attention officially. Under his
trusteeship more practical road improvement has been effected than at
any previous four-year period in the history of the township. Township
road work has been systematized to such an extent that the mud road
in Lafayette is a thing of the past. Those who use the roads to any
extent in different parts of the county quickly learn from the state of
the highways when they come into the township of which Mr. Free has
supervision. To a similar degree has progress been made in drainage
work. The greater part of the open ditches have been covered over and
converted into tiled subterranean outlets, and in some respects this im-
provement lead all the rest in placing Lafayette among the best farming
communities of the state. The effort and interest which he has directed
so unreservedly toward material betterment have been equally bestowed
732 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
upon the advancement of social and moral tone in the rural districts,
and he has done much to make Lafayette a better place to live in for both
the young and the old.
Alva New^ton Harold. Some men are in business by force of cir-
cumstances over which they have no control, and for the reason that the
majority of persons adopt any line of work. There are others, compara-
tively few, however, who take to business pursuits from the very earliest
sessions of inclinations and aptitudes, and are often spoken of as born
to trade. In this latter line is Alva Newton Harold, who has been a
trader, a buyer and seller, since boyhood, and now controls probably
more extensive mercantile enterprises in Alexandria than any other indi-
vidual business man. He is in the buggy and general implement trade,
has a general merchandise store, and is also a dealer in real estate.
Alva Newton Harold was bom in Tipton county, Indiana, January
30, 1877, a son of James Perry and Rachael Ann (Gamer) Harold, the
father a native of Indiana, and the mother born in Ohio at Chillicothe.
The paternal grandparents were Ezekiel and Nancy Harold, natives of
Pennsylvania and pioneers of Indiana. Ezekiel Harold was a farmer by
occupation, and died when past middle Ufe. His seven children were
James P., Daniel, Jasper, Rebecca, Nancy, Eliza and Marinda. The
grandfather had previously married and had one child, William, by that
marriage. The maternal grandparents of Mr. Harold were Vincent and
Rachael Gamer. They were farmers by occupation and early settlers
in Tipton and Howard counties, and the children of their family were
Margaret, Rachael, Betsy, Nancy and Enoch. The father of Mr. Harold
was reared in Hamilton and Tipton counties, and he spent most of his
life as a farmer in those two counties, and also in Howard county. His
death occurred February 20, 1899. He and his wife had four children,
namely: Sarah EUen, deceased; Elma, wife of George Manlove, of
Kempton, Indiana ; Clara, single, and residing at Kempton, and Alva
N., of Alexandria.
Mr. Harold was reared on a farm in Tipton and Howard counties,
received his education in the district schools, and then in the West
Middleton school at Howard county, and remained on the home farm
until he was grown. After the death of his father he moved into Tipton
county, where for several years he operated a large rented farm. He
next bought a half interest in his father's estate and some time later
traded it for a stock of implements and buggies. Thus formally he got
into the channels of trade in which he has remained ever since.
In September, 1910, he came to Alexandria, where he bought the
Spitler hardware store, and also the James G. Bowers Buggy & Imple-
ment house. Besides this extensive business, he owns a large department
store, considerable other city property and has one of the finest homes in
Alexandria.
On April 6, 1902, Mr. Howard married Miss Leuella Wells, daughter
of William H. and Mary (Beatty) Wells. Mrs. Harold was born in
Howard county, and her parents were natives of Tipton and Howard
counties, respectively. Her mother died in the latter county at the«age
of fifty-nine, and her father now makes his home at RufisiaviUe, Indiana.
The children in the Wells family were Thomas, Anna, Jeanette, Luella,
George and Lizzie. The two children of Mr. and Mrs. Harold are named
Aaron and Hazel. Mr. and Mrs. Harold are both members of the Chris-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 733
tian church and he is aflaiiated with the Knights of Pythias. In politicg
he has taken up with the new political party and is a Progressive.
Mr. Harold is one of the leading citizens of Alexandria. He owns
a number of business houses and business interests, and has made his
work a valued and important factor in the community. He is a man of
genial personality, and one whose possessions have never rendered him
vain, but on the contrary have increased his public spirit and his kindli-
ness toward the community and toward his fellow-citizen. He takes
much interest in the welfare and improvement of Alexandria, and is
one of the local citizens who can be depended upon to support any move-
ment or enterprise which has the larger growth and the betterment of
the city as its central purpose.
JAME.S F. Brenaman. It is an honorable distinction to have been in
one line of business in one city for thirty-seven years, especially when
these years have also been filled with worthy activities and influence for
the good of the community. Mr. Brenaman, who is a proprietor of a
marble and granite yard in Alexandria, has been in this special line of
business longer than any other dealer and cutter in Madison county.
Through his wife's family he also represents one of the oldest pioneer
families of the state-
James F. Brenaman was bom in New York City, August 1, 1846, a
son of James M. and Catherine Brenaman, the father a native of Penn-
sylvania and the mother of New York. The father spent his early years
in Pennsylvania, at the trade of machinist, and lived in New York City
until his death, which occurred when his son James was twelve years
of age. The mother died in that city in 1848 when James was only two
years old.
Mr. Brenaman, owing to the early deaths of his parents, was reared
as an orphan boy. During a few terms, he attended the schools of New
York City, but at the age of twelve came out to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he
lived with John G. Sherwood. Mr. Sherwood taught him the trade of
marble cutter, and thus prepared him for his permanent vocation in life.
He also finished his education while at Bucyrus. From 1868 until 1873,
having become a master workman, he traveled about the country, doing
journeyman's work in his trade. Then in 1873 he located in Alexandria,
and was employed in the firm of Ellison & Wood. In 1876 he bought
out the interest of Mr. Ellison, and since that date has conducted a
marble and monument business in this city.
In 1879 Mr. Brenaman married Miss Elizabeth Emily Tomhnson, a
daughter of Nathan E. and Catherine E. (Henderson) Tomlinson. Mrs.
Brenaman is now one of the oldest daughters of Alexandria, where she
was born in 1848. Her mother came from South Carolina, and her
father from North Carolina. The paternal grandfather was William C.
Tomlinson, the maiden name of whose wife was Elizabeth Edwards.
Both were born in North Carolina, and came out to Indiana, and settled
at Richmond, about 1820, only four years after the territory of Indiana
was made a state. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Brenaman was
Shadrach Henderson, who married a Miss Fisher. They were both bom
in South Carolina, and came to Wayne county, Indiana, in the pioneer
epoch and passed away there at a good old age. The parents of Mrs.
Brenaman located in Alexandria, in 1833, and by comparison with the
settlement of Madison county localities, they were among the early
pioneers of this section. The father brought a stock of goods across the
734 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
country and opened a general store in Alexandria, conducted in one
location for fifty years. Both parents died in Alexandria, the father
at seventy-two and the mother at eighty-two years of age. Their children
were named: Mark, Alfred, Nathan E., William C, Martha, Elizabeth
E., and Catherine C. The four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Brenaman
were Ralph, Lewis, James M. and Nathan E. Ralph died when about
fifteen years of age, having served as one of the boy pages in the house
of the Indiana legislature. Lewis is a granite and marble cutter in the
employ of his father. James M. is a barber. Nathan is an electrician
in Alexandria, and by his marriage to Helen Redenbaugh has two chil-
dren, Ruth and Winifred, who are the only grandchildren of Mr. and
Mrs. Brenaman.
Mr. Brenaman is an active member of the Methodist church. He
is active in fraternal affairs, being specially prominent in Odd-Fellow-
ship. He belongs to Necessity Lodge No. 222, I. 0. 0. F., and also to the
Encampment and the Canton, being a chevalier. For sixteen years he
was trustee of Necessity Lodge and superintended the building of Odd
Fellows Hall in Alexandria from the foundation to the roof. He is also
affiliated with Alexandria Lodge No. 478 B. P. 0. of E. A Republican
in politics, he has done much disinterested public service to his home
city. He served as town clerk in 1880, and subsequently as city treasurer.
For nine years he was a member of the school board and built two of
the principal school buildings of the city. During President McKinley's
administration he was appointed to the office of postmaster at Alexandria,
and received a reappointment un(ier President Roosevelt, finally retiring
after nine years of service from the office in July, 1906. His work of
postmaster naturally interrupted his marble business, but since then he
has applied his time exclusively to that vocation.
Lewis C. Cox. After many years spent in industrious and fruit-
ful labor in Madison county, Lewis C. Cox is now living a life of quiet
retirement on his farm of forty acres, located about four miles north
of the county seat of Anderson. A self-made man, who has accumu-
a competence through his own persevering efforts, he was for many
years identified with the agricultural interests of Henry and Madison
counties, and for a period was also engaged in stationary engineering
in Anderson. He was born September 19, 1848, at Granville, Monon-
gahela county. West Virginia (then Virginia), and is a son of Levi
and Mary (Dawson) Cox, agricultural people of West Virginia, who
spent their entire lives in that State. There were three children in
•the family: Lewis C; Jennie, who married a Mr. Weakley; and Sallie,
who became the wife of Mr. Shackleford.
Lewis C. Cox received his education in the public sq^iools of his
native State, completing his studies when. he was fourteen years of
age. At that time he embarked upon a career of his own, coming to
Henry county, Indiana, and securing employment as a farm hand.
He was an ambitious and industrious youth, working faithfully with
the idea in view of accumulating a property of his own. When still a
young man he came to Madison county, settling in Anderson, where
he learned the trade of stationary engineer, and for some years made
this his occupation. He subsequentl^y returned to agricultural work,
however, investing his savings in a piece of property, to which he added
from time to time as his finances would permit. His faithful and per-
severing labor was rewarded by the accumulation of a handsome com-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 735
petenee, and he eventually retired from active life, and is now living
quietly with his son-in-law and daughter.
Mr. Cox was married June 9, 1895, to Mrs. Adelia Teeple,
daughter of George D. and Anna (Kendall) Thompson, the former
one of the earliest settlers of Madison county. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have
had no children, but by her former marriage she had one daughter:
Lettie. She was born August 29, 1888, on a farm in Madison county,
and was well educated in the Elm Grove and Free schools. She was
married here to James A. Kennedy, who was born in Chesterfield,
Indiana, May 4, 1884, and moved to Madison county with his parents
when a child. He was educated in the public schools, and as a j'outh
learned the trade of tin plate worker, an occupation which he followed
for some time, but during the past three years has been engaged in
farming, being the manager of his father-in-law's property. He is a
young man of steady habits and excellent abilities, and is attaining
good results from his operations. He and his wife have two interesting
children : Mary Catherine and Adelia Louise.
Mr. Cox is a valued member of Mount Moriah Lodge, No. 77, of
the Masonic fraternity, at Anderson. .With his family he attends the
Methodist Episcopal Church at Florida. He has lived a long and
useful life, ably performing his part in the great progress that has
marked the history of Madison county during the past half century,
and everywhere is esteemed as a good and public-spirited citizen, who
has the welfare of his community and its people at heart.
William Madison Gabretson, M. D. For a period of more than
thirty years. Dr. Garretson has quietly and efficiently performed his
services as a doctor at the village of Perkinsville and vicinity in Jackson
township. Dr. Garretson is a man of high standing in' his profession,
and perhaps there are none who will say he has not chosen wisely in
spending his career in a country community where the opportunities
for service are just as great as in a city where he has enjoyed many of
the rewards of community esteem in a richer degree than are ever paid
to the city practitioner.
William Madison Garretson was bom in Jackson township of Mad-
ison county, October 22, 1860, and his father. Dr. James M. Garretson,
was likewise a physician in that vicinity, so that the profession has
gone from father to son through a long number of years. Dr. Garret-
son, Sr., was born in Tennessee, a son of John Garretson, a native of
England. The latter was reared and educated in his native land, and
was one of three brothers who came to the United States. John Gar-
retson found a home in Tennessee, where he taught school and where
he lived the rest of his life. He was twice married, and the three sons
of his union were John, William and James M. Of the children of his
second wife two sons were George and Job. The late Dr. James M.
Garretson received a good education, as a young man taught school, and
while teaching took up the study of medicine, and after a period of
practice in Hamilton county, moved to Perkinsville in Madison county.
There he continued in active practice until his death at the age of
sixty-five. The elder Dr. Garretson married Elizabeth Weir. She was
born in Pennsylvania, and at her death at the age of forty-five left four
sons named: George, James Albert, Francis, and YN'^illiam ]\Iadison.
In the schools at Perkinsville, William Madison Garretson received
his first training for life, and later was a student in the Noblesville
736 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
high school. His first studies in medicine were under his father's
direction, and he later attended the Indianapolis medical college, where
he was graduated M. D. in 1882. In the same year he established him-
self for practice at Perkinsville, and has since had his home in this
thriving agricultural community. Dr. Garretson has membership in
the Madison County Medical Society, the State Medical Society, and
the American Medical Association.
In 1884, he married Margaret Zeller. She was born in Jackson
township, a daughter of Jacob and Matilda (Frazer) Zeller. Her
father was a native of Germany, while her mother was born in Ohio.
The one daughter of the Doctor and wife is Miss Nellie.
Daniel Goehler. For thirty-seven years Mr. Goehler has been a
resident of Anderson, Indiana, where he has devoted himself to the
business of merchant tailoring and where his position in commercial
circles is assured. Like thousands of his fellow country men he left his
native land for America with little capital save willing hands, a strong
heart and a spirit of determination and ambition, and with these qual-
ities as his sole resource has made a place for himself among the citizens
of his adopted land. Mr. Goehler is a native of Alsace, France, and
was born in 1844. When six years of age he was sent to the public
schools of his native place, and continued to study therein until reach-
ing the age of fourteen years, when he was apprenticed to learn the
trade of a merchant tailor, serving two ahd a half years at this trade.
He then entered the army and served siK years and three months in the
Franco-German war.
At the time of receiving his honorable discharge Mr. Goehler was
married, in 1871,- to Mary J. Strile, and in 1872, with his wife, who was
also a native of France, emigrated to the United States, landing first
at New York city. From that metropolis he made his way to Louis-
ville, Kentucky, where he worked at his trade until 1874, subsequently
making a removal to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he continued at the same
line until 1876. From the latter place he came to Anderson, Indiana,
and entered business on his own account, continuing in the same to the
present time. Mr. Goehler 's thorough knowledge of every detail of
his business has drawn to him a large and representative trade. He is
a man of acknowledged skill in his line, handles only the best of goods
and carries a full stock of foreign and domestic cloths. Members of
both the older and younger generations of men in Anderson have de-
pended upon his taste and knowledge of clothing values, while his abso-
lute integrity and reliability have served to make him popular. His
establishment is located at No. 920 Main street, while his residence is
situated at No. 212 East Eleventh street.
Mr. Goehler is a prominent Mason, being a member of Mt. Moriah
Lodge, No. 57, A. F. & A. M.; Anderson Chapter, No. 57, R. A. M. ;
Anderson Commandery, K. T., No. 16 ; and he has attained to the
thirty-second degree of Masonry, holding membership in Mt. Moriah
Temple, Indianapolis. He is also a member of the Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks, Lodge No. 209.
Mr. and Mrs. Goehler are the parents of two daughters, Ida and
Leonora. Ida became the wife of Frank Timmons, and they have one
son and one daughter, Rheta Leonora Timmons and Daniel Benjamin
Timmons. Mr. Goehler has traveled extensively in Europe.
DANIEL GOEHLER
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 737
Louis E. Halbotii. Long experience in the mercantile business,
from his youth up, has made Louis E. Halboth especially well qualified
to conduct such a business on his own responsibility. As the assistant
of his father who was engaged in the general merchandise business for
many years, Mr. Halboth early learned the cardinal principles of con-
ducting a general store along safe and successful methods, and he has
put well to the test the lessons learned in those days. He has been a
resident of Linwood since 1911, and here has come to be reckoned among
the dependable and substantial business men of the place.
Mr. Halboth was born in Bloom Center, Ohio, and is the son of
Andrew and Barbara M. (Huber) Halboth. The father was born in
Baden, Germany, and was a boy in his teens when he came to these
shores. In his native laud he had learned the trade of a weaver, and
when he settled in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, soon after his
coming to America, he occupied himself with his trade for some little
time. He married in early manhood and twelve children were born
to him and his wife. They are named as follows: Louise, Henry,
Jacob. Emma, Sallie, Ida, Louis, Charles, Lillian J., deceased, Charlotte,
George and Barbara.
Louis Halboth, in common with his brothers and sisters, attended
the common schools at Bloom Center, Ohio, where the family home was
established for many years, and where the father was occupied in the
conduct of a general store. Here young Halboth assisted his father,
when he had completed his schooling, and remained in the store until
he reached the age of twenty-seven years. The Bloom Center post
office was located in the store and Mr. Halboth was assistant post-
master for a number of years, his father occupying the office of post-
master. When Mr. Halboth was twenty-seven, he quitted the store
and allied himself with a squad of government engineers who were
engaged in running lines for and building the Ohio Southern Railroad,
and he continued with them for some time, advancing rapidly in the
work, and gaining a splendid working knowledge of the profession.
When he finally withdrew from the civil engineering work, he engaged in
the hardware business at Lakeview, Ohio, and was there located for seven
years. He experienced a degree of success there, but was not wholly
satisfied with conditions, and finally disposed of his interests and
accepted a position as traveling salesman for a coal concern, moving
later to Alexander, Indiana, which place he made his headquarters. He
was traveling for four years and had prospered in the work when he
decided to once more establish himself in an independent business, and
he accordingly came to Linwood where he opened up a general mer-
chandise store and has here been stationed since that time. He is tho
sole owner and proprietor of his business, which is making excellent
headway in the town, and prosperity continues to show favors to him.
Dr. Halboth is a Progressive Democrat, but not especially active
in the party ranks.
Thomas Geoendyke. A number of Madison county's most sub-
stantial agriculturists are residing on farms which they have them-
selves developed from the virgin s6il and timber of this section of the
state, and who have been active participants in the great work of
development that has made Anderson and the adjoining townships the
locality of some of the finest country places in Madison county. Among
those entitled to more than passing mention in this connection is Thomas
738 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Groendyke, whose valuable property of 220 acres had its nucleus in a
small forty-acre tract which, when he settled upon it, was entirely cov-
ered with a dense growth of timber. Mr. Groendyke is a native of
Indiana, having been born near the town of Fraukton, October 2, 1852,
and is a son of Elias and Nancy (Jenkins) Groendyke.
Elias Groendyke was born in Fayette county, Indiana, from whence
he came to Madison county and engaged in farming, in which vocation
he spent all the active years of his life. He and his wife were the
parents of eight children, namely : Amanda, Sarah Jane, Catherine,
Charity, Thomas, John, Amos and James. Thomas Groendyke com-
'menced his education in the Pruett school in Anderson township, and
as a youth accompanied his father to Darke county, Ohio, in which
locality he also attended school for one term. When eighteen years of
age he returned to Madison county, and having been trained to farm
work soon secured employment as a hand, at a salary of sixteen dollars
per month. He continued to be employed thus for three years, at the
end of which time, through his industry and faithful devotion to duty,
he had been advanced to twenty-two dollars per month. Subsequently
Mr. Groendyke went to live at the home of a widowed sister, whose
property he worked until he had saved enough money to warrant his
embarking upon a career of his own, and at that time he acquired,
through purchase, a tract of forty acres, located in a heavily timbered
section of Anderson township. In true pioneer fashion he erected a
small log cabin, in which he lived while placing himself upon a sound
financial footing, but this was later replaced by a comfortable frame
dwelling, and as the years have passed various improvements of a
modern character have been made to the buildings and property, this
now being one of the valuable and desirable country homes of this part
of the county. From time to time Mr. Groendyke has added to his
holdings, and at the present time has 220 acres, all under cultivation.
He carries on general farming and raises a good breed of cattle, and
constant industry, able management and modern methods have brought
their reward in the shape of substantial success.
Mr. Groendyke was married in February, 1876, to Emily Smith, a
daughter of James Smith, of this county, and a member of one of the
first families to settle here. Of this union there were two boys, James and
Ernest, both deceased, and one daughter, Cora E., Mrs. Garland Hancock.
.Mr. Groendyke was married to Mrs. Hettie (Ballard) Thomas, the
widow of J. U. Thomas. Mr. Groendyke has devoted himself to the
work of his farm, leaving public matters to those who have had more
desire for the activities of political life. He is a friend of progress,
however, and gives his support, moral and financial, to all worthy
movements. He enjoys the privileges of membership in the local lodge
of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having been one of the
charter members of this order. His comfortable home is situated not
far from the city of Linwood.
George Rapp. The great excitement caused in the early 'nineties
by the discovery of the existence of natural gas in Madison county
brought to this section many young men eager to win their fortunes
in the newly-opened fields. While but few were fortunate enough to
secure land from which the valuable product could be obtained, there
were many who settled down to labor in other fields of endeavor, and
to this class the county owes some of its best citizenship. Lying about
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 739
eight miles iioi'th of the city of Anderson, on Alexander Rural Route
No. 20, is the 120-acre farm of Morgan Wilson, where George Rapp is
located. He came to this locality when he had just passed his majority,
and he has continued since that time to be one of this section's sub-
stantial men. He is a native of Salem, Ohio, and was born February 6,
1871, a son of Christopher and Dorothea (Schaff) Rapp.
Christopher Rapp was born in Germany, and as a young man emi-
grated to the United States, locating first in the vicinity of Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, where he was for some years engaged in farming. Sub-
sequently he drifted down the Ohio river to Marietta, Ohio, and later
removed to Salem, where he met an accidental death when his son
George was still a youth. Christopher and Dorothea Rapp were the
parents of seven children, as follows : John, who is deceased ; Sophia,
who married Marion Willison ; Jacob and Charles, who are both
deceased ; Daniel, a resident of Marietta, Ohio ; Carrie, who married Mr.
Lindamood ; and George.
George Rapp received the customary school education granted to
farmers' sons of his day and locality, and in the summer months devoted
his attention to the honest and instructive work of the home farm. He
continued to remain under the parental roof until attaining his major-
ity, when, anxious to embark upon a career of his own, he came to
Madison county with a number of other aspirants for fortune in the
gas fields, and for a short time was engaged in contracting in Alex-
andria. Subsequently, however, he turned his attention to the vocation
in which he had been trained in his youth. I\Ir. Rapp was trained in the
old school of practical farming, but to this substantial training he has
added the knowledge of modern, scientific agriculture, and has taken
advantage of every advancement made in his vocation. His farm is
productive and profitable, and its general appearance denotes the pres-
ence of able management. l\Ir. Rapp has been connected only with
legitimate enterprises since making his home here, and his dealings have
given him the reputation of an honorable man of business, who, while
ever alert to grasp an opportunity, has shown the strictest integrity in
all of his operations.
On October 20, 1898, Mr. Rapp was united in marriage in Lafayette
township, with Miss Catherine Wilson, daughter of Morgan and Rhoda
(Barker) Wilson, who live in Frankton and are now retired from active
pursuits. There were three daughters in the Wilson family : Pearl,
who married Mr. Alexander, and has two children — Fred and Marie;
Myrtle, who married Mr. Ruley and lives at Portland. Indiana; and
Catherine, now Mrs. Rapp. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Rapp: Harold H., a bright and interesting lad who is now attending
school in Lafayette township. Mr. Rapp enjoys the privileges of mem-
bership in the Knights of Pythias, and is decidedly popular with the
members of the local lodge. He is a Republican in politics, but has
taken only a good citizen's interest in matters of a public nature,
although ever ready to assist in all movements making for the better-
ment of his section. With his wife and son, he attends the Methodist
Episcopal church.
Cicero Riley Reeves. In the field of expert photography, Madison
county has furnished one of the most capable men in the entire country.
Mr. Reeves, who has followed his profession at Anderson for more than
a quarter of a century, has been honored in such a way as to prove his
740 HISTORY OP^ MADISON COUNTY
leadership in not only his honie county but in the country at large as
a photographer. He has been honored with the office of secretary and
later as president of the Indiana Photographers' Association, and as
secretary, first vice-president and then as president of the National
Association of Photographers. His services have also been called in as
critic and judge on many art exhibits, and his own work has won
numerous medals in exhibitions of artistic photography.
, Cicero Riley Reeves was born on a farm in Hancock county, Indiana,
May 3, 1864, and comes of old American stock. He is a son of Benjamin
F. and Caroline (Harlan) Reeves. His father, born in Brown county,
Ohio, was brought to Rush county, Indiana, when ten years of age, and
about two years later to Hancock county, where he followed farming
prosperously for many years, until his death in 1903, at the. age of
seventy-five. He was a man of no small influence in His community,
served sixteen years as a justice of the peace, as township trustee eight
years, and for two years was a member of the Indiana State Legislature.
His wife was born in Fayette county and spent her active life in Han-
cock county. Mr. Reeves' brothers and sisters are: Dr. A. J. Reeves
of Toledo, Illinois; Arthur C. Reeves, a retired farmer of Knightstown,
Indiana; Judge A. B. Reeves, of Dodge City, Kansas; Charles F.
Reeves, court reporter at Anderson ; and Mrs. J. S. Simmons, Mrs. J. R.
Titus and Mrs. John L. Kennedy of Hancock county.
The common schools supplied Mr. Reeves with his early training,
followed by attendance at the Gem City Business College at Quincy,
Illinois. His career as a worker began at the age of eighteen, and the
first four years >vere spent as a teacher. His home has been in Ander-
son since August 29, 1887, and he is probably the oldest established
Dhotographer in the county.
Mr. Reeves is an Independent in politics, and affiliates with the
Knights of Pythias, the Royal Arcanum and the Loyal Order of Moose.
His church home is the First Christian church of Anderson. On Octo-
ber 16. 1887, he married at Wilkinson, Indiana, Cecelia G. Turner,
daughter of Frank L. and Jennie Turner. Her father was a publisher.
The children of their marriage are : Earle C, Ruth V., Nilah E., Mary
J., George A., and John M.
C. M. Corbet. Hickory Grove Dairy, a tract of forty acres lying in
Lafayette township, is one of the valuable agricultural properties of
Madison county, where its proprietor, C. M. Corbet, has a fine herd
of Jersey cattle and supplies milk, cream, butter and other dairy prod-
ucts to the people of the adjacent towns and villages. Mr. Corbet
belongs to the new order of agriculturists, who are conducting their
operations along modern lines, and has found that by specializing in
this branch of farm work he can attain a fuller measure of success than
by following general lines. He was born February 20, 1861, near the
city of Lima, in Allen county, Ohio, and is a son of the Rev. T. W. and
Elizabeth (Robbins) Corbet.
Rev. T. W. Corbet was born in Pennsylvania, and was reared on a
farm, but early in life decided to become a minister of the Gospel, and
accordingly was placed under the charge of a prominent educator of
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, of that day. He was eventually ordained
a minister of the Lutheran church, and for a long period of years made
his home at Lafayette, Ohio, where his charge was located. He and his
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 741
wife were the parents of six children, as follows: Emma, Howard,
Mary E., C. M., Ella and Edward.
C. M. Corbet was given excellent educational advantages, receiving
his early training under the preceptorship of his father, and subse-
quently becoming a student in Northwestern University, Ada, Ohio,
from which he was graduated. After leaving school Mr. Corbet went to
Middlepoint, Ohio, and was in the grain business for ten years. He
then worked in a grocery store at Van Wert, Ohio, and Anderson,
Indiana, and afterward, or about seven years ago, he embarked in the
dairy business. At that time he embarked upon a business career of
his own, coming to Lafayette township and establishing the dairy busi-
ness of which he has been the proprietor to the present time. His herd
of Jersey cattle is one of which he has every reason to be proud, and
his business is constantly growing, owing to his able and progressive
management. He has taken every precaution to observe the rules of
hygiene, his buildings are well-lighted and ventilated, and sanitary
conditions prevail throughout the property, assuring his customers of a
fresh, clean product and excellent service. Mr. Corbet is, first of all,
a business man, and the struggles of the political arena have not suffi-
ciently interested him to make him a seeker for public honors. He has,
however, manifested a commendable inclination to be of service to his
community in the duties of good citizenship, and men and measures
calculated to bring about able government have always found in him
a. stanch and hard-working supporter.
On April 15, 1886, Mr. Corbet was united in marriage with Miss
Belle Parmenter, of Allen county, Ohio, the ceremony bf-ing performed
a* Lafayette, Ohio, liy his lather. Mrs. Corbet is a daughter of H. D.
and Mary (Nash) Parmenter, formerly well-known people of Allen
county. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Corbet, namely :
Fay, Arthur, Vina, LeRoy, Howard, Alice and Emmet, of whom Fay,
Arthur, Vina and Emmet are now deceased. Both the Parmenter and
Corbet families are connected with the Lutheran church, and have been
active in its work and charities.
Clyde D. Schubtz, -M, D. The regular profession of medicine at
Alexandria, Indiana, has been ably represented during the past sixteen
years by Dr. Clyde D. Schurtz, a physician of recognized ability, whose
native talent has gained him high standing in his honored calling. Dr.
Schurtz was born in St. Joseph county, Michigan, January 16, 1859,
and is a son of James and Sarah (Krepps) Schurtz.
James Schurtz was born in Cumberland comity, Pennsylvania, and
as a young man moved to Northumberland county, that state, where in
1841 he was married to Miss Sarah Krepps. On their wedding journey
the young couple traveled by buggy to Michigan, settling in St. Joseph
county, near White Pigeon, where Mr. Schurtz purchased a farm, and
there he continued to be engaged in agricultural pursuits up to the
time of his death, which occurred in 1890, when he was seventy-three
years of age. He was a successful farmer, an influence for good in his
community, and possessed the high regard and esteem of his fellow-
citizens. His widow lived to be seventy-six years of age, and died in
1894, at the home of her son, Dr. Reuben Schurtz, of Streator, Illinois,
her funeral taking place at the German Lutheran Church, of which she
had been a faithful member. Mr. and Mrs. Schurtz were the parents
of ten children, as follows : Mary Jane, who became the wife of A. 6;
742 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Barton, of Battle Creek, Michigan; Henry Albert, a resident of Three
Rivers, Michigan ; David A., living at Grand Rapids, Michigan ; Hannah
Elmira, who married David Mandigo, of Riverside, California; Dr.
Reuben, living at Streator, Illinois, a well-known physician; Orr, whose
home is at Negaunee, Michigan; Dr. Perry, a practicing physician of
Grand Rapids, Michigan; Dr. Clyde D., of this review; Freddie, who
died at the age of two and one-half years ; and Dr. Frank B., a physi-
cian of Spring Valley, Illinois.
Clyde D. Schurtz was reared on his father's farm on White Pigeon
Prairie, Michigan, and secured his early education in the district schools
and the Constantine and Kalamazoo Union school. He subsequently
studied dentistry, and after receiving his degree practiced that profes-
sion for three years, then commencing his medical studies in the medical
department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor. Later he
entered Rush Medical College, Chicago, from which noted institution
he was graduated in 1885, with the degree of Doctor of Medicine, and
almost immediately entered upon the practice of his profession at Eaton,
Ohio. From that city he went to Coal City, Illinois, and then to Peoria,
in the same state, and in the early part of the winter 1897 came to
Alexandria, which city has since been his field of practice. He has been
able to build up an excellent professional business, and his large and
representative practice has been secured through the recognition of his
ability, and his success in a number of complicated cases. Always an
assiduous student, he continues to keep fully abreast of the changes and
advances in his profession, subscribing to the latest periodicals, and
taking a keen interest in the work of the Madison County Medical
Society and the Indiana State Medical Society, of which organizations
he is a valued member. He is a Progressive in his political views but
has preferred to devote himself to his profession rather than to enter
into the activities of public life, although he has an intelligent knowl-
edge of the various public questions of the day and actively supports
movements for the betterment of his community and its people. He
has been prominent in fraternal work for some years, and is a member
of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and of Alexandria
Lodge, No. 235, Free and Accepted Masons, Alexandria Chapter No.
99, Royal Arch Masons, and Alexandria Council Xo. 85.
On February 3, 1908, Dr. Schurtz was united in marriage with Miss
Rilla Fishero, who was born June 26, 1872, at Wallace, Indiana, daugh-
ter of Peter and Clara Elizabeth (Ward) Fishero. This family is of
French origin, the name having been originally spelled Pougerousse.
Mr. and Mrs. Fishero are natives of Indiana, and for many years were
residents of Alamo, although they now make their home at Marshall,
this state. They are the parents of two children : Rilla and Lucy.
Mrs. Schurtz is a member of the Christian Church, and is a general
favorite in social circles of Alexandria.
Henry M. Kemp. Madison county has no more progressive farmer
and citizen than Henry M. Kemp. With a large estate, acquired prin-
cipally through his own exertions, he has employed the best methods
of modern agriculture to make it produce and give it the character of a
modern business enterprise. Mr. Kemp has the distinction of having
been the first farmer in all this part of Indiana to use steam power in
plowing his land. Then, too, he was one of the first country residents
in Madison county to own an automobile, both for pleasure and business.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 743
Though he has doue much to promote his own success, Mr. Kemp had
the advantage of two generations of solid family success behind him.
His family is one of the oldest in Madison county. His grandfather
was one of the pioneer settlers, and his father took hold where the
grandfather left off and accumulated a large fortune for that time in
the form of farm lands and other property. Mr. Henry M. Kemp haa
directed tlie facilities of his age to the improvement and cultivation of
his lands, and has made a striking success.
Henry M. Kemp was born in Jackson township, March 7, 1862. His
ancestry runs back to his father, David W. Kemp, who was born in the
same township, through Grandfather Henry Kemp, who was born in
Frederick, Maryland, and through great-grandfather Gilbert Kemp,
also a native of Maryland. Gilbert Kemp was reared and married in
his native state, and came westward and settled in Hamilton county at
a time which pictures him as one of the very earliest pioneers. Entering
large tracts of government land on the south side of White River, he
improved the water power at Shepard's Ford, built a saw and grist
mill, which was among the first institutions of the kind in a large ter-
ritory, and continued to operate the mills and superintend the clearing
and cultivation of his lands until his death at a good old age. Grand-
father Henry Kemp was a youth when the family moved to Indiana,
and at the age of twenty-seven years he married Huldah Wise. This
marriage connected him with the family of the oldest settlers in Jackson
township of Madison county. Her parents were Daniel and Mary (Mil-
ler) Wise, the former of whom had entered the first land in Jackson
township. The interesting historj' of the Wise family will be found
elsewhere in the sketch of Lorana Coy. Henry Kemp was himself one
of the early settlers of Jackson tovmship, having entered land direct
from the government in sections two and eleven of township nineteen,
range six east, now known as Jackson township. That was many years
before the era of railroads, and transportation facilities were limited to
the rough roads constructed across the prairies and through the woods.
Grandfather Kemp in the early days took his surplus products to Cin-
cinnati, with team and wagon, and it often required two weeks to make
the trip to that city and back. His first home was a log cabin, tyijical of
many others in early Madison county, and as his means increased he
built good frame buildings, and continued to live on the old homestead
in Jackson township until his death at the age of seventy-seven years.
His wife survived him and died in advanced years. The only child of
their marriage was Daniel W. Kemp, father of Henry M. Kemp.
Daniel W. Kemp was reared on the old farm, had a practical educa-
tion in the early district schools, and adopted the life of farmer. He
succeeded to the ownership of the old homestead, and in his generation
was one of the most successful farmers and business men of Jackson
township. His acreage was increased until it aggregated seven hundred
and twenty acres, all in the home township. When the natural gas dis-
coveries were made, he sunk a gas well on his land, and distributed this
product through six miles of pipe, which he laid. His health finally
failing he went to Ocalla, Florida, where he died the second day after
his arrival, at the age of sixty-five. David W. Kemp married Leanuah
Moore, who was born in Virginia, a daughter of John Moore. She now
lives in old age at Anderson. The four children of their marriage were :
Henry M., Florence, Ansel David, and Walter.
Henry M. Kemp grew up in Jackson township, and while still a boy
744 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
attending school learned all the practical duties of farm life. Wlien
he was ready to start for himself, his father gave him ten acres as a
building site, and he proceeded to cultivate a portion of his father's
land. Later he inherited some land, and has added to it bj' purchase
until he is the owner of one of the big farms of Jackson township, co!u-
prising three hundred and sixty-five acres of land. The Kemp farm
is situated about six miles west of Anderson. Everything about the
place indicates the thrifty and progressive farmer. There is a tine set
of fine frame buildings, including a comfortable residence, barns and
out buildings, and all the improvements measure up to the best stand-
ards of Madison county agriculture. His barn is a conspicuous struct-
ure built in a circular form, eighty feet in diameter; fiankiug the main
barn are two large silos, one of which has a capacity for the cut of
twelve acres, and the other for fifteen acres. In every way Mr. Keinp
has kept abreast of the times, and modern methods, and all his
machinery is first-class. He does general farming and stock raising,
and has made his business pay good dividends, practically every year.
In 1886 Mr. Kemp married Alice Tappan. She was born in Ander-
son, a daughter of John and Mary (Snodgrass) Tappan. The six
children of Mr. and Mrs. Kemp are : John, Theresa, Irene, Rachel, Lois,
and Gilbert. Mr. Kemp's father was a good Methodist and a Repub-
lican. Henry M. Kemp cast his first vote for James G. Blaine, in 1884,
and has consistently supported the party ever since. Fraternally he is
affiliated with Lapel Lodge No. 386, Knights of Pythias.
Thad M. Moore. The manager of the Union Real Estate Company,
with offices in the Union Building at Anderson is an excellent repre-
sentative of a pioneer Madison county family. Mr. Moore has lived in
this county practically all his life, has been a farmer, merchant, public
official, and is now the executive of one of the leading real estate firms of
the county.
Thad M. Moore was born at SummittviUe in Madison county, June
21, 1865. His father, Columbus W. Moore, was also born at Summitt-
viUe. To the occupation of farming he devoted the best years of his
life", and at the height of his young manhood became a soldier of the
Union, and enlisted in 1861 in Company D of the Thirty-fourth Indiana
Volunteer Infantry. He gave faithful service as a soldier, and then
returned to his home state, and after a few years residence in Madison
county, moved in 1870 to Indianapolis. He returned to SummittviUe,
where he died the later part of 1871. He married Margaret Hite, of
Rush county, a daughter of Jacob Hite, one of the old residents of that
county. After their marriage they located in SummittviUe, where the
father was engaged in business.
Thad M. Moore attended the village schools in SummittviUe, and also
the high school, and after leaving high school entered the University of
Valparaiso, where he was a student for two years. On his return to Sum-
mittviUe, he lived on a farm in that vicinity for a time, and then became
employed in the general store at that time operated by his grandfather in
SummittviUe. During that period of his life he married Miss Claudia
Fawcett, a daughter of William and Clarinda (Pavey) Faweett.
After his marriage Mr. Moore located on a farm, and ■^''as identified
with general farming and stock raising for a number of yea^s. He pros-
pered in that calling, and continued it until 1898. He then moved to
SummittviUe, and was appointed assistant postmaster and in 1900 was
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 745
elected county assessor on the Republican ticket, serving ten years in that
capacity. After his term of service, he engaged in business at Anderson,
and in 1911 became manager of the Union Real Estate Company.
To Mr. and Mrs. Moore the following children were born : William
C, now a student in the Indiana Medical College at Indianapolis; Prank
T., George S., and Kathleen, all at home. Mr. Moore owns a good farm
in Madison county, having his place well stocked and he gives hw personal
supervision to its operation. The family reside on the farm during the
summer season, and the rest of the year is spent in Anderson. Mr.
Moore is afifiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.
Willie Evekett Clymer. As the popular proprietor of the lead-
ing livery business of Elwood, Willie Everett Clymer is well known
to the citizens of his community, who have recognized and appreciated
the fact that he has endeavored to give them the best of service. He
has followed this line of business ever since boyhood, and is thoroughly
familiar with its every detail, thus being able to cater to the tastes
of his many patrons. He is a native of Elwood, and was born here
April 19, 1868, a son of Koyal H. and Elizabeth (Hart) Clymer.
Massy Clymer, the paternal grandfather of WiUie Everett Clymer,
came with his wife to Madison county from Ohio, took up government
land, settled among the pioneers, and cleared and developed a farm,
on which they spent the remainder of their years, passing away in old
age. They had eleven children : Daniel H., Margaret, Huldah, Calvin,
Royal H., Lou, Mattie, ilury, Elizabeth, Lovina and Elmira. Mr.
Clymer 's maternal grandparents were natives of Ohio and also early
settlers of Indiana. They were the parents of five children, namely:
Lewis. Ellen, George, John and Elizabeth. Royal H. Clymer was born
at Columbus, Ohio, and was still a boy when brought to Madison
county by his parents, the family settling on a farm. He received his
education in the public schools of his locality and grew to manhood as
a farmer, but eventually became a teamster in and around Elwood
during the logging days. He has been a resident of ElwQod for forty
3'ears. thirty-eight of which have been passed in the livery business,
and as the present head of the firm of R. H. Clymer & Son, he is widely
known and very popular. His wife died in 1889, in the faith of the
Methodist Protestant church, of which Mr. Clymer has been a life-
long member. They were the parents of six children, as follows:
Markie; Willie Everett; Cora, who is the wife of L. A. Sites; Myrtle
who married Frank E. DeHority : Ernest; and Lola, who is the wife of
Charles Lyons. Ernest and Markie both died in early childhood.
Willie E. Clymer was reared in Elwood, and this has always been
his home, with the exception of two years, when he was still a small
child, when he resided in the country. His education was secured in
the public and high schools here, and on leaving the. latter began to
work for his father, whose partner he became when he was nineteen
vears of age. ^Ir. Clymer has continued as a member of the firm of
"R. H. Clymer & Son, and is considered one of the substantial men of
the city.
On June 20, 1886, Mr. CljTuer was married to Miss Lennie Lutes,
who was born in Hamilton county. Indiana, daughter of Julius and
Annie (Patterson) Lutes, natives of Ohio and early settlers of Hamil-
ton county. Mr. Lutes died in 1887, at the age of forty-four yqars.
746 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and Mrs. Lutes still survives and is sixty-four years of age. They had
four children, of whom two are now living: Lennie and Clara. Mr.
and Mrs. Clymer had one child, who died in infancy. They are mem-
bers of the Methodist Protestant church, in the movements of which
they have been active, and Mr. Clymer holds membership in the local
lodges of the Knights of Pythias and the Elks. He is a stalwart Demo-
crat in his political views, and has served his fellow-townsmen in the
capacity of alderman for seven years. He belongs to that class of citi-
zens who advance the interests of any community, and can be relied
upon to support all movements of a progressive nature. His popu-
larity is evidenced by his many warm friends and admirers.
John P. Downs. Success in any of the pursuits of life usually
challenges the admiration of the world. It matters not whether in the
profession of law, medicine or literature, or in the theological domain,
in the military or civil life, or in business pursuits, it is the one dis-
tinguishing and distinctive characteristic of aU business transactions.
In the commercial world, alone, the subject of these lines, in his
sphere of labor and activity, has distinguished himself as an active,
energetic business man, and has demonstrated the fact that success
may be attained through the exercise of habits of industry and perse-
verance and that to the man of merit belongs the full measure of suc-
cess and worldly prosperity. John P. Downs, wholesale butcher and
stock buyer, of Elwood, was born in Grant county, Indiana, near the
village of Rigdon, September 10, 1871, and is a son of Jesse F. and
Mary A. (Rybolt) Downs. His paternal grandparents were natives
of Pennsylvania who settled in Grant county, Indiana, at an early date,
and here spent the remainder of their lives in the tilling of the soil,
dying when advanced in years, with the full respect and esteem of their
acquaintances. They were the parents of the following children : Jesse
F., Cale, George, William, Sarah, John, Abraham and Mary. The
maternal grandparents of Mr. Downs were Isaac and Sarah Rybolt,
who came to Indiana at an early date from Ohio, and settled in Grant
county, where they also followed farming and attained to advanced
years. They had quite a large family of children, among whom were
Mary, Rachel, Maria and John.
Jesse F. Downs was bom in Grant county, Indiana, and there was
reared to manhood, being well educated in the public schools and receiv-
ing a thorough training in all matters pertaining to work of an agri-
cultural nature. On attaining his majority, he engaged in farming on
his ovra account, and there died on his sixty-acre tract, in March, 1900.
aged about fifty-seven years. His wife, also a native of Indiana, still
survives him and makes her home in Elwood. They were originally
members of the United Brethren church, but later became identified
with the Methodist denomination, in which Mr. Downs frequently
preached. During the dark days of the struggle between the North
and South, he donned the uniform of his country and for three years
fought valiantly in its defense, participating in some of the most hotly-
contested battles of the war. He was a stalwart Republican in politics
and always actively supported its candidates and principles. Mr. and
Mrs. Downs were the parents of eight children, six of whom grew to
maturity, as follows: John P., who makes his home at Elwood;
Charles, living in Pipe Creek township, Madison county, where he fol-,
lows farming; Garfield, also living in Pipe Creek township; Frank,
,:P<r^t ^^^^^^/<.^i.cf^
i
HISTOHY OF ilADISON COUNTY 747
who is a i-fsideiit of Indianapolis j and Irene and Dale, who make their
home with their mother in El wood.
John P. Downs was reared in Grant county on his father's farm,
his education being obtained in the district schools of his vicinity,
which he attended during the short winter terms. As a young man he
entered his present business, beginning in a modest way to buy stock
and carry on farming, and the former business has grown to such pro-
portions that he is now known as one of the leading men in his line
in this part of the county. He is energetic and alert, ever ready to
grasp an opportunity, and possesses the ability to carry his ventures
through to a successful conclusion. His career has been one of indus-
try and constant energj- and his well-directed efforts have been
rewarded by a merited success. P'oUowing in the foot-steps of his
father, Mr. Downs is a Republican, but has not been an office seeker.
lie and his wife are faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal
church, and his fraternal connections are with the Knights of Pythias
and the Improved Order of Red Men. The pleasant, modern family
home of the Downs is located at No, 1526 North A street.
On October 31, 1897, Mr. Downs was united in marriage with Miss
Cora A. Noble, who was born six miles north of Elwood, in Madison
county, Indiana, daughter of John Henr\' and Jane (Dickey) Noble.
Two interesting children have been born to this union : Gladys and
Marian. Mrs. Downs' parents were both bom in Indiana, her father
ill Rush county and her mother in Madison county. Mr. Noble died
on his farm in Jladison county, March 23, 1912, aged sixty-seven years,
his wife having passed away in 1890, when but thirty-four years of age.
They were the parents of seven children: Cora A., who married Mr.
Downs ; Bertha ; Blanche ; Samuel ; Edward ; Addie and Verilla ; Edith,
who died at the age of two years. The father of these children was a
school teacher in young manhood. The paternal grandfather of Mrs.
Downs was Jonathan Noble, who married Lucinda Jane Smith, both
being natives of Ohio. They both reached ripe old age and passed away
in Madison county, where they had been early settlers. They were the
parents of seven children : Adeline, John Henry, Perry, Hattie, Laura,
James and Benjamin. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Downs
were Samuel and Sarah (Miller) Dickey, natives of Indiana and early
settlers and farmers of Madison county, where the grandfather passed
away in middle life, while his widow still survives him and is still liv-
ing at the advanced age of eighty-five years. They were the parents
of five children, namely : Jasper, John, Lavina, Jane and Edward.
Lee F. Hunt, M. D. It is not an infrequent or unusual occurrence
for the men of a family to show an inclination for the same line of busi-
ness or profession, son following father in a similar calling through
several generations in many cases. Especially is this true in the medical
profession, and a case in point is found in Dr. Lee F. Hunt, of Ander-
son, a physician, son of a physician and grandson of a physician. Dr.
Hunt has been engaged in practice in Anderson for ten years, and is
in the enjoyment of an excellent professional business, his unques-
tioned ability having attracted to him a representative clientele from
among Anderson's leading people. Lee P. Hunt is a native son of
Madison county, Indiana, born in the city of Alexandria, ^lay 1, 1877,
a son of Dr. John Walter and Etta (Brickley) Hunt.
"William A. Hunt, the paternal grandfather of Lee F. Hunt, was
748 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
a native of Ohio, and in young manhood came to Indiana as a pioneer
physician. He traveled all over Madison county, either on horse-baek
or by carriage, and was known wherever there were settlements as one
who was ready at all times, in all weather, to answer the call of his
suffering fellow-men. He led the typical existence of the pioneer coun-
try physician, and while he laid by no great fortune in earthly goods,
he gained that love and affection which cannot be bought with money.
His son, who inherited many of his father's sterling traits of char-
acter, was born in Madison county in 1859, and, like the elder man,
became highly esteemed and widely known, although his field was nec-
essarily more restricted, and the greater part of his active career was
passed in Alexandria. He was a valued member of the Madison County
Medical Society, the Indiana Medical Society and the American Medical
Association, and in his death his community lost a man who stood high
in the ranks of his profession. He passed away in 1904. Dr. Hunt
married Miss Etta Brickle.y, a daughter of Dr. W. P. Brickley, a promi-
nent physician of Madison county.
Lee F. Hunt received his preliminary educational training in the
public and high schools of Anderson, Indiana, and after some prepara-
tion entered the State University at Bloomington, this state, from which
he graduated in 1899, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. In the fall
of the same year he matriculated in Rush Medical College, Chicago,
and in 1900 entered the medical department of Kentucky University.
He was graduated from the last named institution in 1903, and at once
returned to Anderson, where he opened an elegantly appointed suite
of offices in the Union building, where he has continued to carry on a
general practice. Dr. Hunt is a close and careful student, and is fully
informed as to the advancements, inventions and discoveries which are
constantly being made in his profession. He is a strict adherent of the
unwritten ethics of the fraternity, and among his professional brethren
bears a high reputation. He has never practiced the arts of the char-
latan, but has done all in his power to maintain the high dignitj' of his
honored calling and to forward the work of the Madison County Med-
ical Society, the Indiana State Medical Society and the American Medical
Association, of which organizations he is a valued member. Dr. Hunt
also holds membership in the Beta Theta Pi and Phi Chi medical fra-
ternities, and he also has membership relations with ^Ir. Moriah Lodge,
Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks.
In 1908, Dr. Hunt was married to Miss Martha Carr, formerly of
New Hampshire, who at the time of their marriage was a resident of
New York. To this union there have been born two children — John
Carr and Elizabeth. Wlien Dr. Hunt can find leisure from the duties
of his large practice he delights in travel, in the winter months taking
trips to the south and in the summer months, with rod or gun, spend-
ing his vacations in more northerly resorts.
Blaine H. B.\ll. Probably the law has been the main highway
by which more men of merit have advanced to prominence and posi-
tion in the United States than any other road, and it is not unusual,
therefore, to find among the leading citizens of a community a member
of the legal profession. A prominent figure in many of the legal con-
troversies of the Madison county bar, a man of unerring judgment, and
one able in the solution of many complexities, Blaine H. Ball, of Alex-
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 749
andria, has long been kuown as one of this city's most influential men.
He is a native of the Hoosier state, and was born in Rush county, July
13. 1879, a son of Cyrus W. and Sarah E. (Wilson) Bail.
Jonathan and Asenith Ball, the paternal grandparents of Blaine
H. Ball, were natives of Pennsylvania, from whence they drove through
to Indiana at an early day, and settled in Rush county. In early life
Mr. Ball had been a tailor, but on coming to Indiana took up govern-
ment land and bec-ame a successful farmer, being the owner of 1200
acres at the time of his death, which occurred when he was ninety-two
}-ears of age. He and his wife were the parents of these children:
Henry, Demosthenes, William, Caleb, Cyrus, Mary and Emily. The
maternal grandparents of Mr. Ball were natives of Maryland, and were
early settlers of Payette county, Indiana, where they passed the clos-
ing years of their lives in farming. Their three children were : Jona-
than, Melissa and Sarah.
Cyrus W. Ball was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, in 1832,
and was a child of three years when he accompanied his parents in
an ox-wagon in' their journey to Rush county, Indiana. There he grew
to manhood, being reared to agricultural pursuits, improved an excel-
lent farm, and continued to live within a mile of the old homestead
throughout the rest of his life. He died there in May, 1903, when
seventy-one years of age. while his widow still survives him and resides
at Rushville. She is a native of Payette county, Indiana, and is a
member of the Methodist church, with which her husband was identi-
fied. During the Civil war he served as a private during the ninety-
da.y service. Cyrus W. and Sarah E.'Ball were the parents of four
children : Osmer W., who resides at Malta, Idaho ; Pearl, deceased,
who was the wife of A. J. Shelby ; Eva I\I., who lives with' her mother
at Rushville, Indiana : and Blaine H., of Alexandria.
Blaine H. Ball was reared on his father's farm, on which he worked
until he was eighteen years of age, in the meantime pursuing his studies
in the district schools and the Carthage High school. When eighteen,
he began studying law and stenography, in the office of his brother-
in-law, A. J. Shelby, at Lebanon, Indiana, and in the fall of 1901
entered the Indiana Law school, at Indianapolis, being graduated there-
from in 1903. In the spring of that year he came to Alexandria, where
lie has since been engaged in the practice of his profession, his native
ability and conscientious devotion to the interests of his clients having
attracted to him a very satisfactory professional business. He main-
tains well-appointed offices at No. 205y2 North Harrison street.
Mr. Ball belongs to Alexandria Lodge No. 235, Free and Accepted
Masons, of which he is the present master; Alexandria Chapter No.
99, Royal Arch Masons; Alexandria Council No. 85, Royal and Select
Masons, and has attained to the thirty-second Scottish Rite degree.
He also holds membership in Alexandria Lodge No. 335, Knights of
Pythias, and Alexandria Lodge No. 478, Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks. He is a Republican in politics, and his general popu-
larity was attested when he was elected city attorney for five years
under a Democratic administration. Mr. Ball's religious connection
is with the Methodist church.
Sheridan Bronnenberg. Among the names of those intimately
associated with the pioneer history of Madison county is that belong-
ing to the Bronnenberg family, members of which located here at a
750 HISTORY OF MADISON 'COUNTY
day when the most primitive conditions prevailed and through their
work developed excellent farming property out of raw prairie land and
timber. The first male white child bom in the county bore this name.
Michael Bronnenberg having beeil born in what is now Union town-
ship and a grandson of this progenitor, Sheridan Bronnenberg, is now
representing the family worthily, being a successful farmer and stock
raiser and valued and valuable citizen of Richland township. Although
not a native of the county, Sheridan Bronnenberg has been identified
with its agricultural interests for many years, and is regarded as one
of his community's substantial men. He was born in Douglas county,
Illinois, in 1869, and is a son of Carl and Polly (Nelson) Bronnenberg.
Carl Bronnenberg was bom on the old Michael Bronnenberg home-
stead farm on Kilbuck Creek, in Madison county, Indiana, and grew to
manhood in Union township, there securing his education in the public
schools. Some time after his marriage he migrated to Douglas county,
Illinois, and there he passed a number of years in farming and rais-
ing stock. He was uniformly successful in his operations and was
known as a good citizen and thorough man of business. He and his
wife became the parents of four children, of whom two are living:
Sheridan; and Laura, who married Gilbert Mooreland, an agricul-
turist of Alberta, Canada, and has four children — Paul, George, Nina
and Carl T.
Sheridan Bronnenberg was brought from Douglas county, Illinois,
to Madison county, Indiana, when a child, and here was reared to man-
hood. As a lad and youth he worked on his father's farm, and in the
meantime, during the winter terms, secured a good education in the
schools of Center, Thornberg and College Corner, and for a time was
also a pupil in the old schoolhouse situated on the Conner farm. Mr.
Bronnenberg continued to remain with his father until twenty -seven
years of age, at which time he decided to embark upon a career of his
own and accordingly rented a tract of land from his grandfather and
started operations in farming and stock raising. Industry and perse-
verance brought him a well-earned success, and in 1911 he removed to
his present property, a handsome tract of land located in Richland
township about one mile from the city of Anderson. Mr. Bronnen-
berg is a practical farmer, but is ready at all times to give innova-
tions and new ideas a trial, believing thoroughly in the use of pro-
gressive methods. He has been successful alike in general farming and
stock raising, and in addition for some years has bred draft horses for
the markets, his animals meeting with a ready sale. Thoroughly busi-
ness like in his methods, he has won the esteem and respect of his asso-
ciates, who have shown their confidence in his .iudgment on numerous
occasions.
On January 29, 1896, Mr. Bronnenberg was united in marriage
with Miss Anna Green, daughter of George W. and Lydia (Kirkman)
Green, and to this union there have been bom four children, namely :
Bemice, Edna, Forrest and Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Bronnenberg are
faithful members of the Christian church, and have repeatedly given
of their time and means in assisting to support its various religious
and charitable movements. Mr. Bronnenberg is a Republican in poli-
ties, but has not cared to enter actively into public life, although all
good movements enlist his interest and co-operation. He has also
devoted "^ome attention to fraternal work, and among the members of
the local lodges of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Modem
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 751
^Voodmt'Il of America, with which he is connected, he has numerous
warm friends.
C. B. Thomas. The manager of the Linwood Jersey Farm, a prop-
erty located about seven miles north of Anderson, on the Florida turn-
pike, in Lafayette township, C. B. Thomas is one of the self-made men
of Madison county, and his career is an excellent illustration of what
may be accomplished by the youth of ambition, determination and per-
severance. A native son of the county, thoroughly versed in its soil
and climatic conditions, with a knowledge of agriculture that has come
down to him through a long line of fanning ancestors, he has been able
to apply his knowledge and inclinations to the miinagement of a prop-
erty noted for its famous Jersey cattle.
C. B. Thomas was born August 25, 1888, on the old Thomas home-
stead, located one mile north of Linwood, in Lafayette township,
^ladison county, and is a son of John U. and Hattie (Ballard) Thomas.
The only child of his parents, he lost his father when he was but nine
years of age, but went to live with an uncle, Thomas B. Ballard, a
veteran of the Civil war. His education was secured in the public
schools of Linwood and the high school at Anderson, from which he
was graduated in 190S, following which he began his career as an
agriculturist, a vocation in which he has since been engaged. Mr.
Thomas was married November 7, 1910, to Miss Jones, who is a daugh-
ter of Thomas F. and Sarah F. Jones, and to this union there has been
born one daughter: Dorothea Isabella. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas are
consistent members of the Christian church. He has never cared for
the activities of public life, and his only interest in politics is that of
a good citizen, for his time and attention have been too much occupied
in his business duties. He is recognized as an excellent judge of cattle,
and the breed of Jerseys raised on the Linwood Jersey farm find a
read.y sale in the neighboring markets and have made an excellent
impression wherever exhibited. He has been interested in fraternal
work to some extent, and is a popular member of the local lodge of
Odd Pillows.
Grattan a. Busby. Madison county is fortunate in that among
its substantial agriculturists are found many men of the younger gen-
eration, who. in the full strength of their manhood, are able to con-
tribute to the needs of this developing locality, adding the enthusiasm
and zealousness of youth to the experience and practicality of the
older men of the community. A representative of this younger class
is found in the person of Grattan Busby, of Anderson township, who
in addition to operating an excellent farm of 120 acres is also exten-
sively engaged in the threshing business with two of his brothers.
Mr. Busby is by birth, nurture and training a Hoosier. He was bom
on a farm near Hamilton. Steuben county, Indiana, November 15,
1888, and is a son of John ':\I. and Emma (Brown) Busby. There were
nine children in the family: Lena, Charles, Grattan. Blanche. Edith,
Harry, Fred, Lloyd and Arthur. Of these-, three now reside on the
home farm on Anderson Rural Route No. 5.
Grattan Busby was given the advantages of a good educational
training, attending the common schools of his native locality and the
Anderson high school, and supplementing this with one year at Purdue
University. In the meantime, his education as a farmer was not neg-
752 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
lected, for he spent the summer months in assisting his father and
brothers in the work of the home place and in gaining the training
necessary for his life vocation. On reaching manhood he embarked in
general farming and stock raising, in both of which lines he has made
a decided success, and in addition, with his brothers, he has taken up
threshing, and they now control the majority of the work of this nature
in their section. An earnest, industrious and energetic agriculturist,
Mr. Busby has allowed no other interests to claim a part of his atten-
tion, being satisfied to follow the vocation which his forefathers made
their life work. His property of 120 acres is under an excellent state
of cultivation, his machinery is of the latest manufacture, his stock
shows the beneficial effects of careful breeding, and his products find
a ready market at top-notch prices. WhUe he has not entered public
life as a seeker after office, he has always taken an intelligent interest
in those things which make for progress in his community, and can be
depended upon to support good men and measures.
The members of the Busby family have always belonged to the
Christian church.
John J. Gibson, M. D. Twenty years of practice at Alexandria as
a physician and surgeon have brought Dr. Gibson special distinction
and success as an able and skillful doctor and as a man who devotes
himself conscientiously to the duties of professional life.
Dr. Gibson is a native of Canada, and a product of one of the best
medical schools of that nation. He was bom in Perth, Lanark county,
Ontario, February 3, 1866, a son of John and Mary (Scott) Gibson.
The partenal grandfather was John Gibson, who married Agnes
Murray. On both sides the family is of Scotch ancestry. The grand-
father was a merchant in Scotland, in the town of Dumfries, and after
transferring his home to Canada followed farming. Both he and his
wife attained a ^ood old age before their death, and in their family were
the following named children: William, James, Andrew, John, Mary,
Elizabeth, Mary Ann and Maggie. Andrew Gibson, of this family,
after graduating from Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, practiced
medicine successfully for several years in Clinton, Ontario. He then
took a post graduate course in London, and Edinburgh and then set-
tled in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he enjoyed for about fifteen years a
very lucrative and extensive practice. His death was caused by typhoid
fever. William and Annie (Harkness) Scott, the maternal grand-
parents of Dr. Gibson, had the following children : Edward, Matthew,
James, John, Thomas, Mary, Mina, Maggie and Annie. The parents
both lived to between seventy and eighty years of age.
Both John and Mary (Scott) Gibson spent most of their lives in
Lanark county, Ontario, on a farm. John Gibson was of age when he
left his native land of Scotland, and he located on a farm in Lanark
county, where he maintained his home until his death, at the age of
forty-nine. His wife survived him and is now sixty-nine years of age.
Their church was the Presbyterian, and the father during his life time
held various township offioes. Their family of children numbered ten,
eight of whom reached maturity and are mentioned as follows: Dr.
John J. Gibson, of Alexandria; William, of Atlanta, Georgia; Mary,
of Lanark county; Jessie, who died in the spring of 191^, the wife of
Charles Grant, of Kenora, Ontario; Samuel, of Lanark county; Edith,
who is married and resides in the state of New York ; James, of Lanark
A^riL^ ^^%Jr^^^
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 753
county; Jeau, of Lanark county, on the old homestead and living with
her mother.
Dr. John J. Gibson was reared on his father's farm, in LanarK
county, and as a boy attended the country schools and the Perth Col-
legiate Institute, where he was graduated in 1882. The profession of
medicine was the goal toward which his ambition centered, but he had
to pass through some years of independent effort before he could secure
the means to prepare himself for practice. He was engaged as a
teacher for six years, and then entered Queen's University at Kingston,
Ontario, where he studied until graduation with his medical degree in
1893. In the same year, on the 1st of June, he located in Alexandria,
and has enjoyed in later years the best practice in the city.
Dr. Gibson is a member of the Presbyterian -church, and his frater-
nal affiliations are with Alexandria Ijodge, No. 235, F. & A. M. ; Alex-
andria Chapter, No. 99, R. A. M. ; and Alexandria Council, No. 85. He
also belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Odd Fellows, the Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks at Alexandria, and in the line of his
profession is a member of the County and State Medical Societies and
the American Medical Association. His politics are Republican. Dr.
Gibson in graduating from Queen's University was valedictorian of his
class, and his subsequent .successful career has fully justified the prom-
ise and hopes raised by his under graduate work.
John Klumpp, Sr. Practically all the business career of John
Klumpp, Sr., has been passed in the employ of the Macbeth-Evans
Glass Company, one of the most widely known concerns of its kind in
the United States today, if not, indeed, the most famous. He was ten
years of age when he first identified himself with the glass business in
Pittsburg, and continued there with the main plant until 1902, when
he came to Elwood, Indiana, to take charge of the plant at this place,
and he has continued as superintendent at this point without interrup-
tion since that time. His identification with the glass business has been
of a most interesting character, and has brought him into prominence
as an expert glass-blower in the largest cities of this country.
Born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, on November 3, 1865, John Klumpp
is the son of Charles and Barbara (Hoffman) Klumpp, both natives of
Baden, Germany. They came to America in 1841. Five children were
born to them, as follows: Barbara, who died unmarried at the age of
nineteen years; Catherine, who married Gust Bodenhagen, and is now
deceased; Charles, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; John, of this review:
and Frank, also a resident of Pittsburg. The father of this family
settled in Pittsburg soon after his arrival in this country and engaged
in various activities. He fought in the Civil war as a member of what
was known as "The Fifth Heavy" regiment and gave faithful service
for something like three years. He died in Pittsburg in 1882 at the
age of fifty-tive years, and his widow survived him until 1906, when she
passed away at the advanced age of seventy-six years. Both were
members of the German Lutheran church during their lives.
John Klumpp was born and reared in Pittsburg, and attended the
public schools of that city for a few years, but his education was cut
short in his boyhood by "his advent into the commercial world when
he was ten years of age, after which he attended school but little. He
began work "in the plant of the Macbeth-Evans Glass Company at that
age, and has been connected with them for the greater part of his life
754 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
up to the present time, principally in Pittsburg, and coming to Elwood
in Jul}', 1902, to assume the superintendency of their mammoth plant
at this place.
Concerning th'is magnificent organization, it may be said briefly here
that it was organized in Pittsburg in 1874, being known first as the
George A. Macbeth Glass Company. It was reorganized in 1897 as the
Macbeth-Evans Glass Companj^, and now has branches and factories
in numerous cities throughout the United States. The Elwood branch
was established here in 1892, when the country hereabouts was in the
heights of the gas excitement. The plant went into operation with a
force of about four hundred persons, a number that has since been
increased with the demands of the business until today a force of
between five and six hundred people are on the pay rolls of the company
here, the same aggregating some $18,000 a month. The principal output
of the factory is lamp chimneys, lantern globes and lamp shades, and
the products of the plant are shipped all over the world. About sixty-
five thousand globes and chimneys is the average daily output. The
company maintains branches at Marion, Indiana; Toledo, Ohio; and
Charleroi, Pennsylvania, in addition to their mammoth plant at Pitts-
burg, and they employ about twenty-six thousand people in their com-
bined factories and offices. The Elwood plant is a fine brick building,
admirably suited to the business, and under the able direction of Mr.
Klumpp is able to make a fine showing among the various factories of
the company.
Mr. Klumpp began to learn gla-ss-blowing as a boy, and has advanced
through all the stages of knowledge connected with the business, so that
he is known to be one of the most capable men connected with the
industry today. He has long been known for an expert glass-blower
and was chosen as one of the blowers of America to blow glass at the
World's Fair in Chicago, in 1893. He also blew glass on exhibition
for three years in Pittsburg, and has accomplished some wonderful
feats in that line. For a year, in about 1897, he traveled for the
Thomas Evans Glass Company, and when the Macbeth-Evans Company
came into existence as a result of the consolidation of the Macbeth
people with the Evans', Mr. Klumpp took charge of the Pittsburg
plant as manager, following which he became superintendent of the
Elwood business.
During the years 1895-1896-1897 Mr. Klumpp was president of the
United Labor League of Western Pennsylvania, representing seventy-
five thousand organized workingmen. Upon entering the duties of
salesman for the Thomas Evans Company he severed his connections
with this organization, having received an honorable withdrawal card.
On October 23, 1883, Mr. Klumpp was united in marriage with Miss
Ida MeCurry, the . daughter of Henry and Margaret (McKelvey)
MeCurry, and they have three children, — John, Helen, and Gladys.
John is assistant superintendent of the plant, under his father, and is
one of the capable young men who are identified with the business of
the Macbeth-Evans Company here. He married Miss Gladys Moore,
and they have two children,— John III, and Dorothy. Helen and
Gladys Klumpp are attending school and still share the parental roof.
Mr. Klumpp is fraternally identified with the Masonic order, hav-
ing membership in Quincy Lodge No. 230, A. P. & A. M., as well as
with the Maccabees. He is a stanch Republican, and is one who has given
honest service to the party all his life. Mrs. Klumpp was born and
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 755
reared in Pittsburg, where her parents passed the best years of their
lives, and died. They were the parents of seven children, as follows:
Charles, James, William, Hugh, Ida, who became Mrs. Klumpp, and
Margaret.
The Klumpp family is one that is highly esteemed in Elwood, where
the various members are known and appreciated for their many excel-
lent qualities, and where they take prominent places in the leading
social activities of the community.
Ch.\rles G. Dick, M. D. There is no profession to which men devote
themselves more dignified in its ethics or more reasonably helpful to
the world than that of medicine. Similar claims are made by the church
and by the law, but they, while essentially true enough, are based on
other foundations. The healing art demands of its real followers that
natural reverence for the dignity of the human body that commands
the exercise of all the skill that years of training and study have brought
them, to cure its ills, even though they know that their services will
receive no pecuniary reward. Where or when does a real physician
refuse to give help, and to what other body of men does the world owe
so much? The medical profession's scientific discoveries have not only
eased the bed of former torture, but have .found the cure for almost
every bodily affliction. Justly is this noble profession in the forefront.
Methods may differ, systems may not be quite alike, and personality
eounts for much, but the aim and principle remains the same. Among
the members of the medical profession well known in Madison county,
Indiana, is Dr. Charles G. Dick, of Elwood, whose skill and faithful-
ness, together with his determined hopefulness and cheerfulness, have
made his presence valued in many households during the past, sixteen
years, which period covers his residence in this city.
Charles G. Dick, M. D., was born in Winona county, Minnesota,
November 5, 1866, and is a son of Samuel C. and Elizabeth (Young)
Dick, natives of Ohio. His paternal grandparents were natives of the
North of Ireland, of Scotch parentage, and were early settlers of Ohio,
while on the maternal side he is descended from grandparents who were
natives of the Buckeye State and spent their entire lives in the vicinity
of Steubenville.
Samuel C. Dick was born in Steubenville, Ohio, April 19, 1816, and
was the son of William and Jane McClintock Dick, the former a native
of Ireland and the latter of Scotland. Crossing the Atlantic to America,
William Dick took up his residence in Steubenville, where he died
in 1849. Samuel C. Dick was reared in SteubenvUle, and as a young
man learned the trade of millwright, and in 1848 removed to Daven-
port, Iowa, where he followed his vocation for some time. Subsequently,
he removed to Richmond, Minnesota, early in the 'fifties, and was inter-
ested in a gristmill there, but later turned his attention to farming in
Winona county, where his death occurred in 1892, when he was seventy-
two years of age.
Samuel C. Dick was married May 9, 1850, to Miss Elizabeth Young,
who was the daughter of Hercules and Anna (Chandler) Young, both
of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. In their family were eleven
children: Mrs. Rachel Chandler, born September, 1806; Mrs. Sarah
Stockton, born March 8, 1808; James; Dinah; Eli; Mrs. Ann Baker;
Morgan; John; Mrs. Hannah Craft; Mrs. Margaret Carroll, and Mrs.
Elizabeth Dick, who was born July 25, 1824.
756 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
To Mr. and Mrs. Dick were born ten children, eight of whom are
yet living : Thomas C, the eldest, was born March 10, 1851 ; Margaret
E., August 4, 1853; Anne E., November 13, 1855, wife of William
P'oote; a daughter born July 12, 1858, died in infancy; Mrs. Emma L.
Geddes, bom July 23, 1859 ; Clarence F., November 18, 1861 ; William
W., May 24, 1864; Charles G., November 5, 1866; Ulysses S., October
19, 1868; and Mrs. Elizabeth M. Davis, April 15, 1871. The Dick
family resided in _ Winona county, Minnesota, from 1855 to 1898.
Mrs. Dick survived her husband for a period, and was seventy-nine
years of age at the time of her demise. Originally Quakers, they later
transferred their support to the faith of the Presbyterian church, in
which they both died.
Charles G. Dick was reared on the home farm, and received his
early education in the district schools, subsequently graduating from
the State Normal School in 1890. During the several terms that fol-
lowed, he was engaged in teaching school in Minnesota, and he then
entered Keokuk Medical College, Keokuk, Iowa, where he was gradu-
ated with his degree in 1895. Succeeding this he spent two years in the
hospital at Marquette, Michigan, and in 1897 came to Elwood, where
he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. It was not
long after his arrival that his talents were recognized, and he has been
in the enjoyment of a constantly increasing professional business, his
remarkable success in a number of complicated cases having firmly
established him in the confidence of the community. Dr. Dick is a close
and careful student, and has kept fully abreast of the advancements
that are constantly being made in the field of medicine. He is a strict
observer of the unwritten ethics of the profession, and enjoys marked
popularity among his confreres of the fraternity in Madison county.
On September 21, 1897, Dr. Dick was married to Miss Florence
Clark, who was born in Winona, Minnesota, daughter of George and
Jennie (Lockwood) Clark, natives of New York state, both of whom
are deceased. George "Washington Clark was born June 10, 1827, in
Copenhagen, Lewis county. New York. His father, Orrin Clark, was a
soldier in the War of 1812 and took part in the battle of Sackets Har-
bor. After his death, which occured in 1848, his family was granted
a land warrant in recognition of his services. This was located in 1855
by his son, George W., in whoSe family its possession still remains.
The Clark family is of Scotch-Irish origin. John Clark was born
on the Emerald Isle in 1655, and in 1699 was married. In 1717 he
came to America and took up his residence in Rutland, Massachusetts.
His children were : Mathew, Thomas John, William Samuel, James
George, Sarah and Elizabeth, aU born in Ireland. Mathew married
Jane Bothel. His children were : Jane, John Alexander, Agnes, Wil-
liam, Hannah and Elizabeth, born in Rutland, and James, Margaret,
Sarah and Mathew, born in Colerain, Massachusetts. James Clark of
this family became a captain in the French and Indian war, serving
from 1754 to 1763. His children were : John Scott, Royal, Silas, David,
James, Orrin and Betsy.
John Scott Clark was the first white male child born in Chester,
Massachusetts, 1762. He married Sarah Anderson in 1790. Their chil-
dren were: Orrin, Asenath, Electa, John and Lucinda. Orrin Clark,
father of George W., married Rebecca White Templeton. Their chil-
dren were: Electa, Betsy, Sarah, Rebecca, Orrin, Nathan, Wayne,
George W., and John Scott. George W. Clark was educated in the
I
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 757
common school and Lowville Academy. He came west in 1851. On
the 13th of November he landed in Winona county, where he spent the
remainder of his life. On the 11th of February, 1857, he was married
to Jennie Lockwood of Waupun, Wisconsin, who was born December
4, 1837. By this marriage were born seven children: Frank W.,
January 4, 1858; Adah L., January 27, I860; Jay Scott, November 4,
1862; Florence E., July 28, 1868; Alfred H., March 26, 1870; Jennie
A., January 25, 1874; and May, September 13, 1878.
Dr. and Mrs. Charles G. Dick have had foiir children, as follows:
Margery C, born September 21, 1898; Charles C, bom January 29,
1900; Jennie E., born January 9, 1904; and Ulysses, born June 9, 1907,
died September 20, 1907.
Dr. Dick is a member of the Presbyterian church, while his wife is
a Unitarian. His fraternal connection is with Qnincy Lodge No. 230,
F. & A. M., but while he appreciates the privileges of membership he
has never sought official position.
Joseph A. Zettel is a newcomer in Madison county, having located
here after a long and varied experience in business and trade in differ-
ent parts of the United States, chiefly in- Minnesota. Mr. Zettel is now
proprietor of an establishment at 112 West Church street in Alexandria
for tin, galvanized and sheet iron work and hot air heating apparatus.
Joseph A. Zettel was born in Waterloo county, Ontario, Canada,
May 12, 1852. The family originated in Germany, and after coming
to America -moved into Canada. The paternal grandfather was Lucas
Zettel, the maiden name of whose wife was Jlonica Straub, both of
whom died in Waterloo county, Ontario, when in old age, Mrs. Zettel
being ninety-two at the time of her death. Their family consisted of
Joseph, Herman, Theresa, Jlary and Regina. The maternal grand-
father of the Alexandria merchant was Andrew Holrod, whose wife
was Magdelana Holrod. They also were natives of Germany, whence
they migrated, to Canada and died in Bruce county, Ontario, he at the
age of eighty-two and she at eighty-four years. Their five children
■were named: Magdelana, Mary, Anna, Joseph and Felix.
Andrew and Magdelana (Holrod) Zettel, parents of Joseph A.,
were bom in Germany, the former in Wuertemberg, and the latter in
Baden. Their nine children are mentioned as foUows: Mary, wife of
John Wechter, of Bruce county, Ontario; Felix, deceased; Ambrose, of
Bruce county ; Monica, deceased, who was the wife of Henry Oldheiser
of Lincoln, North Dakota; Joseph A., of Alexandria; Lucas, of Bruce
county, Ontario; Theresa, wife of Charles Mickus of Scott county, Min-
nesota; Regina, wife of Andrew Schwartz of Bruce county; Herbert,
of St. Paul, Minnesota. The father of this family accompanied his
parents from Germany to Canada, when he was eleven years of age,
and he grew to manhood in Waterloo county. By trade he was a cooper,
but subsequently followed farming. His death occurred in Bruce
county, when he was seventy-eight years of age and his wife passed
away when fifty-six. They were both members of the Catholic church.
Joseph A. Zettel was reared a farmer boy in Bruce county, and the
years up to maturity were spent under the home roof. His education
was such as could be furnished by the countrj- schools. After school
days he continued as a worker on his father's farm for eleven years and
then went out to the western states, locating at Shakopee, Minnesota,
in 1886. It was his distinction in that locality to establish and operate
758 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
the first creamery, and iu subsequent years he was in the same line of
business in different places in Minnesota. He was also a hotel pro-
prietor in Shakopee. While a resident at Montgomery, Minnesota, he
served as the first mayor of the town. In November, 1912, Mr. Zettel
came to Alexandria, where he bought out the tinning and sheet iron
business of 0. M. Hoover, and is now enjoying a prosperous business.
On September 29, 1874, he married Miss Mary Schumacher, a daugh-
ter of Anthony and Mary (Kirsch) Schumacher. They were the
parents of five children : Theresa, Lawrence, Joseph, Frank and Wil-
liam. The daughter, Theresa, is now at home in Alexandria. Law-
rence and Joseph both studied for the priesthood, but are now deceased.
Frank and William are Franciscan priests. The mother of this family
passed away March 12, 1887, at the age of thirty-four years.
On June 5, 1890, Mr. Zettel married his second wife, Sophia Koeper,
daughter of John Koeper. She died January 1, 1912, at the age of fifty.
She was < the mother of seven children, Albinus, Cyril, Ida, Irene,
Sybilla, Leo and Regina. Albinus died at the age of eleven, and the
other children are now at home. The family are aU communicants of
the Catholic church and Mr. Zettel is affiliated with the Knights of
Columbus. In politics he is a Democrat.
Thomas M. Jones, M. D. For three successive generations mem-
bers of the Jones family have been identified with the profession of
medicine and surgery, and Thomas Monroe Jones since beginning prac-
tice at Anderson about seven years ago has emphasized surgery, for
which branch of practice he has shown unusual aptitude and skill. His
father before him -is well known as a physician and surgeon in Madison
county, and the grandfather at one time also practiced medicine in
this county.
Few members of the profession in Indiana have entered upon active
practice more generously endowed with the experience and training
which come from association with the great readers in medicine and
surgery and with observation in the foremost clinics and hospitals of
the world than has Dr. Thomas M. Jones. He was born in the city
of Anderson, August 9, 1877, the only son of Dr. Horace E. and Carrie
E. (Cockefair) Jones. His literary education was obtained at the Uni-
versity of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany, at which institution he
spent four years. Returning to this country in 1898, he entered the
Indiana State University, from which institution he was graduated
with the A. B. degree in one year. The same year after graduating from
the Indiana State University, he entered the Johns Hopkins' Medical
School of Baltimore, Maryland. From here he was graduated as Doc-
tor of Medicine in 1902. Immediately after graduation he was ap-
pointed a member of the staff of St. Marks hospital of New York city,
which position he held for one year. From St. Marks hospital he ob-
tained, by competitive examination, a position in the surgical staff of
Kings County Hospital of Brooklyn, New York. This position he filled
for two years during which time he was afforded abundant practical
experience in surgery. After leaving the last named institution he
returned to his native city of Anderson, Indiana, where he opened an
oflSee and entered upon the practice of medicine. In 1908 he gave up
the general practice, devoting his entire time to that of surgery.
In 1910 he went abroad, to Vienna, Austria, where he spent a year
in the surgical clinics of that great medical and surgical center.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 759
Dr. Jones is at present in the active practice of surgery and ia afiBl-
iated with the Madison County and Indiana State Medical societies.
Also with the American Medical Association, the Mississippi Valley
Medical Society and is a member of the Clinical Congress of Surgeons
of North America.
He has contributed liberally to surgical literature, having written
original articles on surgical subjects more especially on the subject of
Goitre from'a surgical standpoint and also numerous case reports.
In 1907, Dr. Jones married Miss Elizabeth Shields Baker, of Win-
chester, Virginia, where she was reared and educated. They are the
parents of one son, Horace Edgar. Dr. Jones is prominent in Masonry,
being a member of Fellowship Lodge, No. 681, A. F. & A. M., Anderson
Chapter, R. A. il., and he is also identified with the Bene^folent and
Protective Order of Elks. His fine home is at 310 West Twelfth street,
Anderson.
Thomas W. Wright was bom in 1849 near Matlock, Derbyshire,
England, Matlock being noted for its hydropathic establishments. Mr.
Wright's parents lived on an estate that came from father to son for
five generations; his father died when he was in his infancy and on the
remarriage of his mother they left the estate and moved to Dronfield,
near Sheffield.
In his youth Thomas W. Wright decided of his own free will to
look for some occupation ; he sought employment with Edward Lucas &
Sons, friends of the family, who gave him the option of going in the
office or to learn a trade. He decided he would learn a trade first and
went to work in their shovel works. At twenty years of age he was
put in charge of a department as foreman. As tliey would not agree to
put in some important improvements he wished to make he resigned
and came to America in the fall of 1872. He obtained employment
with II. M. Myers & Company, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, in February,
1873, and was made foreman of that plant in 1875 and held that posi-
tion until he resigned in 1889, when he then started in the business
himself, manufacturing sliovels under the name of The Wright Shovel
Co. at Beaver Falls. Pennsylvania. The business outgrew the building
then occupied and the plant was moved to Anderson in 1891, A short
time before W. J. Alford had become associated with Mr. Wright and
in 1895 Mr. Wright and Mr. Alford organized the Elwood Steel Co.
and Elwood Fuel Co. and were the sole owners in 1900 when these
plants, together with the Wright Shovel Co. of this city were taken over
by the Ames Shovel & Tool Co.
Mr. Wright then became associated with a number of industries and
was one of the organizers in the building of the Union building and is
at the present time one of the largest stockholders and president of that
company. He was chairman of the Board of Governors of the Present
Day Club which was the foundation of the organization of the Com-
mercial Club. He was one of a committee of three to raise funds for
the building of the present Elks Home. Mr. Wright is treasurer of
the Wright Rich Cut Glass Co. and is now building a plant to manu-
facture some metal specialties of his own invention under the name
of the Wright Metal Mfg. Co. While Mr. Wright is supposed to lead
a retired life he cannot content himself without some activity.
He lives in one of the most elegant homes in Anderson on West
Eighth street, the fashionable residence district of the city. He ia
Vol, n— 21
760 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
modest in his pretensions, close in friendships and a genial companion.
He and his estimable wife are prominent in social circles and delight in
the entertainment of the legions of their friends. No worthy object of
charity escapes their notice, but they are not ostentatious in benevo-
lence. The Wrights became residents here when the new Anderson
began to take shape and they have helped to transform a country town
into a thriving city. They worship at the Episcopal church oil Dela-
ware street and have been large factors in the building of a new and
comfortable rectory and in the maintenance thereof.
Peter Ritter. The agricultural interests of Adams township are
ably and worthily represented by Peter Ritter, who has resided in this
township all of his life and is now the owner of thirty-two acres of well-
cultivated land. An agriculturist throughout his career, he has kept
fully abreast Of all the changes and improvements that have marked
his calling, and, while he has never sought honors in other fields than
that in which he entered upon his career, is today accounted one of
the substantial men of his section. Mr. Ritter was born on a farm in
Adams township, Madison county, Indiana, April 1, 1852, and is a son
of Abraham and Mary (Basicker) Ritter. His father, who followed
the occupation of tilling the soil, went some years ago to Missouri,
where his death occurred, while Mrs. Ritter still resides and makes her
home with her daughter and son-in-law. Abraham and Mary Ritter
had a family of three children: Peter; Emma Eliza, who is the wife
of John Muncie, a resident of Anderson, Indiana; and John, who is
an agriculturist of Adams township.
The educational advantages of Peter Ritter were secured in the
district schools of Adams township, which he attended during the
winter terms, the summer months being passed on the home farm,
where he assisted his father and gained a comprehensive knowledge of
farming methods. He continued to remain under the parental roof
until his marriage, in 1880, at which time he embarked upon a career
of his own. General farming has continued to occupy his attention,
and through industry, perseverance and the exercise of good judgment
and able management he has succeeded in accumulating a handsome and
valuable property. He finds a ready market for the produts of his
farm, and while he is known as a good business man and one alert to
all the opportunities of trade, has the reputation of being a man of
the strictest integrity, holding the esteem and confidence of those with
whom he has had dealings. Mr. Ritter has interested himself in fra-
ternal work, and at this time is a valued member of Pendleton Lodge
No. 88, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; Emporia Lodge No. 132,
of which he is past sachem, and a member of the Grand Lodge, Improved
Order of Red Men ; and the Haymakers, in which he has passed through
the chairs. Public life or the struggles of the political arena have not
attracted him, but he has at all times manifested a willingness to give
his aid to movements calculated to be of benefit to this community.
On January 11, 1880, Mr. Ritter was united in marriage with Miss
E. Stinson. of Adams township, and to them there have been liorn four
children, namely : Courtney E., who is married and makes his home
in Anderson ; Orpha A., who is single and living at home ; Claude, a
graduate of the common schools, who is married and a farmer in Adams
township; and Ruth B., a graduate of the common schools and Ander-
son Business College, who resides with her parents. Mr. and Mrs.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 761
Ritter are nienibers of the Christian church. They have lived quiet,
honorable lives, fairly earning the regard of a wide circle of friends
Piid the general esteem of the people of the community.
Philip G. Shirley. Farming and stock breeding have constituted
the main interests of Philip G. Shirley since he located in Madison
county in 1888, and he is today one of the prosperous and independent
men of the township and county, although it is well known that he
established himself here with but the most slender resources in the
way of material possessions. His success is a fitting example of the
results that attend honest toil, with the exercise of a sound business
.iudgment, such as Mr. Shirley has ever possessed. Prosperity made
friendly overtures to him, only when he made aggressive overtures to
Prosperity, and so it will always be with the men who strive to gain
material success in dealing with the products of the soil, and kindred
industries.
Philip G. Shirley was born in the Shenandoah Valley, in Virginia,
in November, 1860, and is the son of William and Frances (Grim)
Shirley, both of whom are now deceased.. He was reared on the home
farm in the beautiful valley of the Shenandoah, and was educated in
the public schools to the age of eighteen years. When he was twenty-
one years old Philip Shirley came to jMontgomery county, near Ger-
mantown, Ohio, and was there occupied as a farm hand, remaining in
the community for four yeai-s. In 1888 he migrated to Madison county,
Indiana, and this district has held the center of his interests since
that day. After locating on a farm in the vicinity of Pendleton, Mr.
Shirley devoted hiin.self to the dairy business .for something like seven
or eight years, and at the end of that time he bought a farm of his own,
having previously operated a rented place, and settled down to farming
in genuine earnest. In addition to his regular farming, he carries on a
lively business in the breeding of thoroughbred Jersey cattle and Poland
China hogs. He breeds in pure blood, and his place has produced some
valuable cattle and hogs in recent years. His success has been a matter
of steady and consistent growth and all credit is due to him for the
manner in which he has conducted his business since locating here.
In 1894 Mr. Shirley was married to Florence Beard, a daughter of
the state of Virginia, where she was reared and educated. They have
three sons: Beard, the eldest, is sixteen years of age; Raymond, age
fourteen; and Joseph S. All three are attendants at the Pendleton
high school, and give promise of worthy accomplishments with the
passing years.
Mr. and Mrs. Shirley are members of the United Brethren church,
of which Mr. Shirley has long been a trustee and a member of the
official board of the church. In his politics he is a Prohibitionist, and
is active and prominent in the work of that party. Mr. Shirley is a
man who has led a clean and wholesome life, and has many excellent
traits which have won for him a place in the general regard of his
fellow beings that is most enviable. He had little chance to educate
himself in his youth, his schooling being of the district school variety,
but he has supplemented that meager trainihg with lessons learned
under the greatest of all schoolmasters, experience ; and he has been
one who was able to profit by his mistakes as well as by his successes
and victories. He has the unqualified respect of all who know him. and
is cherished in his community as an excellent friend and neighbor,
762 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
while the quality of his citizenship is known and appreciated through-
out Madison county.
Michael Joseph Fogerty. In every large community there are
found business men who have risen to successful walks of life through
the medium of their own efforts, and in this respect Elwood is no excep-
tion to the rule. Few, however, of the business men of this place have
been the architects of their own fortunes in so great a degree as has
Michael Joseph Fogerty, secretary and general manager of the Elwood
Iron Works Company. In his youth he received only ordinary educa-
tional advantages, but his perseverance, his industry, and his inherent
ability have allowed him to forge steadily to the front, and today he is
recognized as an important factor in the business life of his adopted
city. Mr. Fogerty was born at Bellefontaine, Ohio, September 24, 1875,
and is a son of Patrick and Anna (Curran) Fogerty.
Patrick Fogerty, the paternal grandfather of Michael J. Fogerty,
was a native of Ireland, who emigrated from his native land to Canada,
and came thence to the United States, settling in Bellefontaine, Ohio,
where the grandfather died when nearly ninety years of age, his wife
also attaining advanced years. He followed farming and railroad con-
struction work, was a steady, industrious workman, and had the respect
of those who knew him for his sterling qualities of heart. He married
Julia Griffixi, and thej' became the parents of five children, namely:
John, Patrick, Daniel, Jeremiah and Mary. The maternal grandparents
of Mr. Fogerty, also natives of Ireland, were pioneer settlers of Indiana,
and lived first at Mount Jackson and later at Indianapolis, where both
died in old age, the parents of five children : Mary, Julia, Annie,
Bridget and Daniel.
Patrick Fogerty, father of Michael J. Fogerty, was born in County
Kerry, Ireland, and was a lad when brought to America by his parents.
For seven or eight years the family resided at Quebec, but subsequently
came to Bellefontaine, Ohio, where the youth grew to manhood, and
where he still resides. As a youth he served as a fireman on the "Bee
Line," but later embarked in business as the proprietor of a general
store, although for the past several years he has lived a retired life.
His wife passed away in 1894, in the faith of the Catholic church, of
which he is also a member. Mr. and Mrs. Fogerty had a family of nine
children, of whom six grew to maturity : Catherine, the wife of Robert
P. Dickinson, of Bellefontaine, Ohio; Michael Joseph; Margaret, single,
of Bellefontaine ; James, living in that city ; Jeremiah J., whose home
is at Lima, Ohio ; and Julia, single, who lives at Bellefontaine.
Mich'ael Joseph Fogerty received his education in the public and
parochial schools of Bellefontaine, and as a lad received his introduc-
tion to business life as a clerk in his father's store in his native place.
He first came to Elwood, in 1898, and here was content to accept a posi-
tion as a laborer, although this was but a means to an end, for from
that time he steadily advanced as his ability, industry and faithfulness
won him promotion. Becoming bookkeeper and salesman for the Elwood
Iron Works Company, in September, 1901, he was made general man-
ager of the concern, a position he continued to hold until July 1, 1910,
when the company was reorganized, and he became a part owner, secre-
tary' and general manager, offices he has continued to hold to the present
time. This institution was established in 1889 by John Holleran, James
B. Baird and Gustav Kramer, and at that time employed ten or fifteen
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 763
hands. At the present writing oh an average of eighty-five skilled men
are employed in the manufacture of tin-plate machinery, glasshouse
machinery and grey iron castings, the pay-roll amounting to about
$75,000 per annum. Wayne Leeson is the president of this venture,
the business of which extends all over this country and Europe. Much
of the success of the Elwood Iron Works Company has come as a direct
result of the untiring eiforts of its manager, whose progressive ideas,
shrewd business judgment and able handling of matters pertaining to
employes and employment have served to keep the business free from
those misfortunes and setbacks that have meant the undoing of more
than one large enterprise. Among his associates Mr. Pogerty is held in
1he utmost confidence, while his men respect him for his ability and
esteem him for his fairness.
On June 8, 1904, Mr. Fogerty was married to Miss Genevieve A.
Hueper, who was born in Louisville, Kentucky, daughter of Franklin
and Rose (Reinhart) Hueper. Mr. and Mrs. Hueper still reside in
Louisville, where Mr. Hueper has a prosperous painting and decorating
business. They have two daughters: Genevieve and Rose. Mr. and
Mrs. Fogert}' are the parents of four children: Robert, John, Mary
and Joseph. They belong to the Catholic church, and he is a member
of the Knights of Columbus, the Ancient Order of Hiberians and the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. In political matters, he is a
Republican, but has taken only a good citizen's interest in the affairs of
the public arena, having been too busily occupied in making a place for
himself in the business world.
Reuben Neese. Now retired from active business cares, but still
one of the largest landholders in Jackson township, Reuben Neese has
made a large and worthy success, won entirely as the result of his own
well directed efforts. When he and his wife began housekeeping it waa
in a log cabin home and on a few acres of ground, with practically no
improvement. Around that little nucleus he has since built up one of
the finest agricultural properties in Madison county. Mr. Neese is
known today to be one of the wealthy farmers in the county, and stands
high in the regard of his fellow men wherever known.
Reuben Neese has for more than sixty-five years considered Jackson
township his home. He was bom in that township, January 24, 1847.
He comes of a long line of American ancestry, and in almost every
generation there appeared a pioneer, one among those who pushed the
boundaries of civilization further west. His father was Jacob Neese,
born in Meigs county, Ohio, in 1804. The grandfather was Henry
Neese, born in Peunsj^lvania, where he was reared and married, and
from which state, he took his family to Ohio, at a time when Ohio was
in the far west. The journey was made in flat-boats down the Ohio
river until they came to the nearest point to Meigs county, in which
county Grandfather Neese was a pioneer. Buying land, he improved a
farm, and remained there until his death.
Jacob Neese, father of Reuben was seven years old when, in 1811,
he saw the first steamboat go down the Ohio river. That boat had been
constructed at Pittsburg by a member of the Roosevelt family, and just
a century later, in 1911, an exact duplicate of that pioneer vessel
steamed down the river from Pittsburg to New Orleans. When he was
eighteen years old Jacob Neese left the parental home and went to
western Virginia, where he served an apprenticeship in learning the
764 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
tanner's trade. Completing that training, he entered the employ of
John Moore, who owned a farm, a grist and saw mUl, and a distillery
on Mill creek, in Shenandoah county, Virginia. By his ability he soon
rose to the position of superintendent of the industry, and married a
daughter of his employer. In 1835 Henry Neese and family came to
Indiana. The journey was made across the country, and all the move-
able household goods were brought along in a wagon. At the end of
ekeh day the family camped by the wayside. Arriving in Madison
county, Jacob Neese bought a tract of timber land in section twenty-
seven of township twenty, range six east, now a portion of Jackson
townshif. A log house was built in the woods, and it was in that rude
home that Reuben Neese was born. Later Jacob Neese built a mill on
Pipe creek, and superintended both farm and mill until his death in
1861.
Jacob Neese married Sarah Moore, whose family has a long and
interesting record. She was born in Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, a
daughter of John Moore, who was born in Lebanon county, Pennsyl-
vania, and a granddaughter of John Moore, a native of the same
locality, while her great-grandfather was also John Moore. The last
named moved from New Amsterdam, New York, to Lebanon county,
Pennsylvania, where he was an early settler. He secured land from the
Penn Proprietor and the deed written on parchment, is still preserved
by his descendants, who own and occupy the original tract of land.
On that original land purchase John Moore built a large stone house,
which is still standing and in good condition. In that house he lived
until his death. John, son of the John who first settled in Lebanon
county was an only child and inherited the homestead, where he
remained a life long resident. He reared a large family. His son,
John Moore, grandfather of Reuben Neese was reared in Pennsylvania,
but when a young man moved to Shenandoah county, Virginia, and did
the work of a pioneer in that vicinity. His father had given him a
tract of land, located about four miles east of Mt. Jackson. There he
.improved the water power, 'built a flour and saw mill, also a distillery,
and cleared and cultivated a large amount of land in the vicinity. A
commodious brick house which he built is still standing, and is always
kept in excellent repair. It was in that home that John Moore spent
. his last years. He married a Miss Heiser, a life long resident of
Virginia.
Jacob Neese and wife reared eight of their eleven children, namely:
Louisa, Amanda, William, Sarah, Eliza, John, Hannah and Reuben.
Reuben Neese was fourteen years old when his father died. His
mother died when he was but five years old, and his father married a
second time. After living with his step-mother one year Reuben Neese
started out for himself, and from that time forward was self-sup-
porting. His early employment was in different lines of work, up to the
time of his marriage, and his first enterprise after that event was in
the grocery trade at PerkinsviUe. The venture did not prove profitable,
and he closed out and took up the trade of shoe making. Later he bought
twenty acres of land in section twenty-seven in Jackson township, and
on that small tract he began his career as an independent farmer.
Practically the only improvement on the land was a log house, and it
was in that' humble abode that he and his young wife spe c six happy
years. Success rewarded their thrift and industry, and with the accumu-
lation of means other land was bought, and in the course of years the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 765
results now show in a Hue estate of five hundred and eighty acres in
Jacksou and Pipe Creek township.
Since 1890, Mr. Neese and wife have had their residence in the
village of Perkinsville. For uine years there he conducted a thriving
store, and also served two terms in the office of postmaster. With the
well eai-ned prosperity, Mr. Neese and wife have taken life easily iu
recent years, and spent much of their time iu travel. They have visited
nearly all sections of the United States, and a part of each winter is
spent in the south. Among his other interests, Mr. Neese is a director
in the Farmer's Trust Company of Anderson. Before her marriage,
Mi-s. Neese was Clara Webb. She was born near- Bell Brook, in Greene
county, Ohio, and her father was Isham Webb. Her grandfather, Henry
Webb, a farmer by occupation, spent all his career in Greene county.
The father of Mrs. Neese learned the trade of blacksmith, and moving
to Indiana conducted a shop at Rushville for a time, but later took up
his residence at PerkiusviDe in Madison county, where he died at the
age of fifty-three. Isham Webb married Phebe Vaughan, who was born
in Green county, where her father John Vaughan was a farmer. Mrs.
Neese was a child when her mother died, and she was reared in the
home of a step-mother. The only child born to the marriage of Mr.
and Mrs. Neese was John S., who died at the age of twenty-two and
one-half years. Mr. Neese is a Republican iu politics. He has never
cared for the honor of ofiice, but for a number of years served as a
committeeman. He attended the Methodist church iu Perkinsville, and
in that city he assisted iu the organizing of the Red Men.
Elman G. Vernon. Among the old and honored families of Madi-
son county whose members have contributed through their activities
to the material welfare of the community along agricultural and com-
mercial lines and also to the higher culture, that of Vernon is deserv-
ing of more than passing mention. One of the oldest enterprises of
the city of Anderson is the firm of E. G. Vernon & Son, which was
established in 1868 by Elman G. Vernon. This firm handles coal,
cement, lime and practically every class of builders' supplies except-
ing lumber and building brick.
Mr. E. G. Vernon, who some years ago retired from business and
is now enjoying life on a farm a few miles from Anderson, was born
in Madison county in 1848,' has lived here all his life, and after his
early education started out as a young man without any backing, and
for many years conducted the principal line of drays for the trans-
portation of goods in the city of Anderson. This business led naturally
into the establishment of yards and warehouses for the supply of lime,
coal and cement to the local trade. In addition he bought a grain
elevator situated on the Panhandle Railway tracks at the corner of
Main and Fifth streets, and for a number of years was one of the large
handlers and shippers of grain from Anderson.
Both during his residence in Anderson and since he left the city
Mr. Vernon has always been an enterprising citizen and much inter-
ested in the upbuilding of his community. A Republican in politics,
he has been liberal in his views, and has often supported the best man
regardless of party affiliations. Many people associate his name not
so innch with business as with music, and in his younger days he was
a proficient musician himself and took a prominent part in the organized
musical activities of Anderson. He was the first tuba player in the
766 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
county, and one ot tiie organizers of the baud which was known as
the "Saw Filers Band," which all of the older residents well remem-
ber. As a musician he classed along with such men as Carl Makepiece,
S. D. VarpeU, George Kline and Professor Dallas H. Elliott, the cham-
pion comet player of the west. In his active business career no one
ever doubted his honesty and integrity, and he has taken into his
retired life the respect and esteem of hundreds of Madison county
people.
E. G. Vernon retired from active business in August, 1895, and
the 'business has since been owned and managed by his son Charles W.,
and conducted under the old firm name. Charles W. Vernon was born
at Anderson February 2, 1872, was educated in the Anderson public
schools and th&> Bryant and Stratton business college at St. Louis,
Missouri, and after graduating from the latter in 1891 took up his
present business. Charles W. Vernon affiliates with the Blue Lodge
and Chapter degrees of the Masonic Order, the Woodmen of the World,
and is one of the prominent younger business men of the city. In
October, 1910, he married Miss Esther Boston of Pendleton, daughter
of Benjamin Boston.
Judge John F. McClube. Since he began his practice at Anderson
more than thirty years ago, Judge McClure has enjoyed many of the
better distinctions of the law and public life, and has accepted numer-
ous opportunities to upbuild his community and uplift its civic stand-
ards. In the history of the city itself he will perhaps always be best
remembered as mayor of Anderson at the beginning of the period- of
development following the discovery of natural gas. Then if ever the
city needed a firm and progressive head, and it was a matter of special
good fortune that Judge McClure was mayor during the four years
following 1886. In his profession and in the larger public service of
the state, greater honors came to him in the office of circuit judge,
which he held for twelve years, and at the present time he is a mem-
ber of the public service commission of Indiana.
Judge McClure represents one of the oldest families of Indiana,
one which has been established in this state lacking only six years of
a century. The historical town of BrookviUe was the birthplace of
John F. McClure on December 24, 1852. It might be mentioned that
BrookviUe, though a small town of not more than two thousand popu-
lation, has probably furnished as many men to the useful and dis-
tiaguished offices of state and nation as any other city in Indiana.
Two of the early governo'rs of Indiana, two United States senators.
General Hackleman, who fell at the battle of Shiloh, General Lew
Wallace, Hiram Powers, the sculptor, several governors of other states,
supreme judges and state officials and college presidents have honored
BrookviUe as their early home, and through their accomplishments in
politics, law, literature and art, have reflected honor on that old town
at the extreme southern end of the state. The McClure family, which
left Ireland in the early years of the nineteenth century in order to
escape the economic and civic conditions under which they were living,
not only found prosperity in the New World, but have "added many
useful citizens to various communities. While none of the family
have perhaps attained the very highest distinctions, they have all been
worthy of their Scotch-Irish ancestry, and several others besides Judge
McClure have attained some of the valued honors of public Life and
have all left worthy names.
HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY 767
The founder of the family in this country was James McClure,
grandfather of Judge MeClure. With his wife and two sons, William
and James, he emigrated from County Sligo, Ireland, and settled near
Brook ville, Indiana, in 1820. He was one of the pioneer farmers in
that part of the state. He was a well-read man, pai-ticularly on religious
subjects, and was a member of the .Methodist church for more than
sixty years and took much interest in church affairs from the time of
his arrival in this country until his death in 1869. James McClure
married Catherine Likely, who was born in County Sligo, where she
was married, and lived to the advanced age of ninety-nine years. Her
membership in the Jlethodist church continued for nearly three-quar-
ters of a century. When she came with her husband to America she
was accompanied by her brother William, who located near Brookville
and became a successful farmer. The five children, all sons, of James
and Catherine JleClure were : Richard, W^illiam and James, who were
born in Ireland, and John W. and Henry C, born at Brookville. When
the family emigrated the son Richard remained with an uncle in Ire-
land, but subsequently came to America and became a farmer on an
extensive scale at Oliiey, Illinois. He was a veteran of the Civil war,
and was mustered out with the rank of major of the Sixty-first Illinois
Volunteers. The son William was a stock dealer, and never married.
John W.. another uncle of Judge McClure, was born in Brookville.
Indiana, in 1822, and at one time held the rank of lieutenant in the
National Guards. The youngest son, Henry C, was born in Brookville
in 1825. All these sons are now deceased, and all of them reached
manhood and reared families except William.
James McClure, Jr., father of Judge McClure, was born in County
Sligo, Ireland, April 2, 1818, was two years of age when the family
emigrated to the United States and settled at Brookville, and his edu-
cation was a product of the primitive country schools that were found
in Souttiern Indiana before a real sj'stera of public education was intro-
duced. He became a farmer and stock raiser, followed those voca-
tions all his life, and acquired more than ordinary prosperity. He
owned nine hundred and sixty acres of land situated in Franklin and
iladison counties, and this land included the one hundred and thirty-
three acres which had been bought by his father on settling near Brook-
ville. He was always interested in public affairs but never sought any
official place, and his public service was limited to work on behalf of the
schools in his community and in connection with the improvement of
the highways. James McClure married Ann McCaw, who was the old-
est child of David and Jane (Shera) McCaw, the father being a native
of Ireland, and the mother a native of Ohio. David McCaw was for many
years a prosperous farmer living in the eastern part of Franklin county,
Indiana. James McCaw. brother of Ann McCaw, gave three years of
service as a private soldier in Company G of the Thirty-seventh
Indiana Infantry.
John F. McClure had the usual experiences of a farmer's son until
finishing his college course and entering upon his profession. His
education was the result of attendance at country schools, at Brookville
College one year, that being followed by the classical course in the Old
Asbury (now DePauwl University, where he graduated salutatorian
of his^ class in 1879. In the meantime he had pursued the study of
law for two years and following his graduation from college was for
one year principal of the high school at Anderson. In 1880 Judge
768 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
McClure began the practice of law at Brookville, being associated vvitli
Thomas H. Smith under the firm name of Smith & McClure. Locating
in Anderson in 1881, he lias since made that city his permanent home,
and began practice as a member of the firm of Carter & ilcClure. With
a growing success as a lawyer, he was soon drawn into public affairs,
and in 1886 was elected mayor and re-elected in 1888. He began his
services as mayor in May, 1886, and with the discovery of natural gas
in the following year took up real estate business, and had an active
part in developing and extending the limits of the older city, at the
same time giving his public spirited cooperation to every movement
which mi^ht enable Anderson to make the most of the great opportu-
nities which began with the natural gas era. Both to his office as mayor
and to his professional and business relations he was one of the leaders
in the industrial development of those early years. In association
with Thomas B. Orr, now president of the Building & Loan Associa-
tion of Anderson, he laid out what was known as the Avenue Addition,
consisting of some six acres in what is now a prominent part of Ander-
son, and on the organization of the Irondale Real Estate Company
became its secretary. This company has some of the largest real
estate holdings in the vicinity of the city, and did much to develop its
properties and add to the permanent resources of the city by locating
several industries.
An active Republican since casting his first vote, Judge McClure
was chairman of the Madison county Republican committee for four
terms from 1888 to 1894, and in 1896 a member of the Republican
State Advisory committee. His service as mayor of the city covered
the years from 1886 to 1890, and he also served a year in the city
council and two years as city attorney. In 1896 he was elected judge
of the circuit court, and by his re-election in 1902 served twelve years.
His record on the bench was one of impartial, systematic and efBcient
performance, and of the great number of cases tried before him few
appeals were taken and there was an exceedingly small proportion of
reversals. His long services as a lawyer, man of affairs and judge,
brought him recognition over the state at large, and his appointment
as a railroad commissioner in 1908 brought him to an office for which
his experience and attainments well fitted him. He was re-appointed
in 1912, and on the creation of the public service commission of Indiana
in May, 1913, was made a member of that larger body, and his term
expires in 1916. ,
Judge McClure attends the Methodist church, with which his family
has so long been identified, and is active in fraternal affairs, having
passed all the chairs in the Knights of Pythias, served as representative
in the Grand Lodge, and in 1892 was Captain of the Uniform Rank;
and also has affiliations with the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Camels of the World.
On December 14, 1888, Judge McClure married Mary Falknor of
Anderson. She was born in Ohio in 1865, a daughter of Elias and
Julia Falknor, both natives of that state, and who located in Anderson
after the Civil war. Mr. Falknor is a veteran of the Union Army, and
both he and his wife are still living, having enjoyed a married com-
panionship of sixty-five years. Mr. Falknor is now eighty-eight and
his wife eighty-seven years of age. Through his active career he was
engaged in the mercantile business, but has lived retired for some
vears, and has never sought any of the honors of public office. Judge
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 769
McClure and wife became the pareuts of three sons: James C, who
was liorii Ueeeinber 16, 1S89, and died October 25, 1891 ; Horace,
born September 17, l.sy:j, and now a junior in DePauw University,
and ;Mark F., born February 6, 1898, and a member of the junior class
of tile Anderson high school.
William R. JIorris. Among the substantial citizens of Madison
county who are contributing to the progress and development of their
localities by their activities in various lines of endeavor, William R.
Morris, of Anderson City, has attained deservedly high rank. A truck
farmer by vocation, he has achieved success through the medium of
his own efforts, and his career has been oi>e of steady advancement,
marked by close application and persistent effort. Mr. ^Morris was
born on his father's farm in Anderson township, Madison county,
Indiana, November 6, 1854, and is a son of John and Sarah Ann
(Gather) ^Morris.
John Morris was a native of Darke county, Ohio, where he received
the greater part of his education, and as a youth came to Madison
county, settling on a farm of 120 acres. There he continued to follow
agricultural pursuits during the remainder of his active career. He
and his wife were the parents of six children : Serepta, Charles, Mary,
Electa. Jasper N. and William R.
William R. Mt)iTis secured his education in the public schools of
Anderson township and Anderson High School and grew to mai^iood
on his father's farm, the greater part of which is now city property.
As a young man he adopted the vocation of farmer, teaching school dur-
ing the winter term, and this he followed until several years ago when
he commenced devoting his attention to trucking. His operations along
this line have met with decided success, and he has established a repu-
tation for business acumen and strict integrity in his dealings. A
Democrat in his political views, he has taken an active interest in the
success of his party, but his only public office has been that of truant
officer, a capacity in which he is acting at the present time. With his
family, he attends the United Brethren church.
Mr. Morris married Miss Nevada Moss, and they have had six chil-
dren: Earl, who married a Miss White; Myrtle, now Mrs. Ervin;
Anna, who married a Mr. Beacora, and Bessie, Esther and Charles F.,
who are single. The Morris home is situated 2324 West Eighth street,
Anderson.
William Henry Harrison Quick. The really useful men of a
community are those in whom their .fellow-citizens can rely in affairs
of public importance; to whom they can come for assistance in sea-
sons of financial distress; men who by the wisdom of their own invest-
ments and by the honorable lives they have led on every field of effort,
and as neighbors and friends, have won the implicit faith of their
fellows. Very often, in prosperous towns and cities, these men are
retired farmers; frequently they are bankers, and in not a few cases
it will be found that they are veterans of that great struggle which
makes the memory of the Civil war yet fresh, even after the passage
of half a century! Such a man in every particular is William Henry
Harrison Quick, of Anderson, than whom no citizen has been more
closely identified with the financial interests of the city during the
past several decades.
770 HISTORY OP MADISON COUNTY
Mr. Quick was born in Henry county, Indiana, Februai-y IS, ISil,
a son of John and Nancy (Clary) Quick. His grandparents were
Cornelius and Hannah (Cox) Quick, natives of Virginia and New
Jersey respectively. Cornelius Quick was a gallant soldier in the
American army during the war of 1812. The maternal grandfather
was Vachel Clary, a native of Kentucky. John Quick, wlio was
a native of Ohio, while his wife was born in Kentucky, in 1816
moved to Henry county, Indiana, entei-ing land two miles east
of Middletown, and becoming one of the pioneers in that section.
His home was there until about 1858, when having sold his farm
he moved to Pipe Creek township in Aladison county, where his pur-
chase of five hundred acres of land included a portion of the present
site of the town of Frankton. A prosperous farmer, he became known
not only for his prominence in the affairs of his locality, but for his
many sterling ciualities of mind and heart. For many years he was
closely identified with the Christian church, in which his membership
was more than that of an attendant at worship, and he exemplified the
christian virtues in his daily life. His death occurred in 1879 at the
advanced age of eighty-one years, his wife having passed away
previously.
William Henry Harrison Quick spent his boyhood on a farm in
Henry county, and was about nineteen years old" when the family came
to Madison county. His education was acquired by a more or less
regular attendance at the country schools, the summer months being
spent in assisting his father in the duties of the home place. When
he was twenty years old the Civil war broke out, and with many other
youthful patriots he enlisted in 1861 for service in the Union army.
Entering as a private, he subsequently became sergeant in Company
E of the Thirty-Fourth Regiment of Indiana Infantry, a regiment
commanded by Colonel Asbury Steel. His command was sent to Ken-
tucky, thence to New Madrid. Missouri, on the Mississippi river, and
participated in the campaigns about that town and at Island No. 10
and the reduction of Port Pillow, concluding with the fall of the city
of Memphis. His regiment was among the first troops to enter the
latter city. His service as a Union soldier lasted for two years, and
finally on account of illness he was granted an honorable discharge.
His record in helping to presei-ve the Union was one of which his
descendants may properly be proud. When he returned to the pursuits
of peace he settled on a farm near Frankton in Madison county, and
began a career of general farming and dealing in live stock, princi-
pally cattle and hogs, shipping from Frankton. He also became inter-
ested in general merchandising and the grain trade with his brother,
under the firm name of Quick Bros., a partnership which continued
until 1887. Mr. Quick continued in the grain trade until 1895. He
transferred his home and business headquarters to Anderson in 1899.
At the county seat he became one of the principal organizers of the
Anderson Banking Company, of which he is vice-president and one
of the leading stockholders. For more than a quarter of a century Mr.
Quick has been one of the important factors in financial circles of
Madison county. He was one of the organizers of the Continental Na-
tioned Bank of Indianapolis, of which he is still a dii-ector and stock-
holder, is a stockholder in the Anderson Trust Company at Anderson,
and one of the largest individual stockholders in the People's National
State Bank. He is interested in the Hoosier Pence Company of Frank-
HISTORY OP^ MADISON COUNTY 771
ton, and his varied investments include a large amount of Madison
county tana lands, three excellent properties being owned bj' him and
farmed on lease.
In 1870 Mr. Quick married Miss Clara M. Douglas, daughter of
R. R. Douglas. The one daughter of this marriage is now Mrs. Sewell
A. Nebeker, a resident of Indianapolis. Mr. Quick subsequently mar-
ried ^liss Rosa Grass, of Hancock county, Indiana, whose father, Dr.
Grass, formerly of Pennsylvania, was a prominent physician of Char-
lottesville, Indiana. In the IMasonic order Mr. Quick has been a mem-
ber for more than forty years, and has taken the principal degrees in
both branches, his affiliations being with Frankton Lodge No. 77, A. F.
& A. M., of Frankton : Anderson Ciiapter No. 52, R. A. M. ; Anderson
Commandery No. 32, K. T. ; and he was made a Scottish Rite thirty-
second degree JIason in 1899. Although he 'has reached the time of
life when most men lay aside their business cares, content to retire
and leave the helm to younger men, Mr. Quick continues to carry on
his daily routine of duty and to take a keen interest in all that affects
his city. For a man past seventy, and who saw service in the Civil
war, he is exceedingly well preserved, and in his healthy and con-
tented age can look back over a life of industry and useful endeavor.
Sherman H. IMakepeace. Among Madison county's sons who have
attained distinction in fields of active usefulness is Sherman H. Make-
peace, attorney at law and dealer in real estate, with offices in the Union
Building. Anderson. Mr. Makepeace has t>een connected with varied
lines of activity, and has shown his versatility by making a success of
each of his ventures, and since coming to Anderson, in 1901, has stead-
ily advanced in his profession and in realty circles, until today he is
recognized as one of his adopted city's foremost citizens. Like many
of the men of influence and prominence in Anderson, Mr. Makepeace is
a product of the farm, having been born on the family homestead at
Chesterfield. Madison county, Indiana, August 23, 1864, a son of Wil-
lard and Melvina (Godwin) Makepeace, the former born near York-
town. Delaware county in 1836. and the latter in Chesterfield in 1839.
Mrs. ilakepeace was a daughter of Dr. G. W. Godwin, one of the pio-
neer physicians of ^ladison county, who became widelj* and favorably
known. Willard Makepeace was a miller by trade, a vocation which he
followed for a number of years, but in later life removed to his farm
near Chesterfield. There he was engaged in the various branches of
agricultural work until his retirement, when he removed to Anderson,
and in this city his death occurred July .5, 1891. His widow survived
him for a long period, passing to her final rest April 7, 1911.
Sherman H. Makepeace received his education in the public and
high schools of Anderson, and for some years was engaged in assisting
his father in his agricultural operations. He next turned his attention
to journalistic work, identifying himself with the Anderson Weekly
He raid, of which he was local editor from 1888 to 1890.. On severing
his connection with that newspaper, he embarked in the manufacture of
brooms, as one of the principal stock-holders of what is known as the
Anderson Broom Factory, but disposed of his interests two years after-
wards. After his marriage, in 1894. to Miss Ida Charles of Wabash
county, ]\Ir. Makepeace settled in Chesterfield, where he engaged in
business, and was elected justice of the peace, an office which he filled
faithfully and capably for some eight years. In 1901 he came to Ander-
772 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
son, where he opened an ofiSee in the Union Building and engaged in
the real estate business, and also handles collections and rentals, as well
as giving some attention to a law practice. He handles both city and
farm property, has built up an excellent trade, and bears a high reputa-
tion among realty men in Anderson. He is the owner of a farm of
one hundred and twenty-nine acres, which is included within the city
limits of Chesterfield, and the land has been put in a good state of culti-
vation, the soil is rich, and the fine complement of substantial buildings
makes it one of the model properties of the section. He has also made
numerous profitable investments in city property, including his modern
residence. Mr. Makepeace is a stalwart Republican in politics, but his
only interest in political matters is in the election of his friends as he
has never personally aspired to public office, and his service iu the
capacity of justice of the peace has been the only position of prefer-
ment he has held.
In 1894, Mr. Makepeace was united in marriage with Miss Ida
Charles, of Wabash county, Indiana, whose parents, Samuel B. and
Jane Charles, both died in that county in 1900. One sou has been
born to this union : Charles Willard, a bi-ight, interesting lad, who is
now attending school.
Tillman Fuller. Among the younger generation of men of Madi-
son county who are ably maintaining the high standard set by their
fathers in agricultural matters, Tillman Fuller, of Richland township,
holds deservedly high place. He is at present the owner of a well-
cultivated tract of forty acres, located on Alexandria Rural Route No.
19, and the general confidence in which he is held by his fellow-citizens
has been manifested by his election to the office of township trustee, a
position which he is ably filling at this time. Mr. Fuller was born on
the old Fuller homestead in Monroe township, Madison county, Indiana,
September 2, 1876, and is a son of William H. and Ella (Millspaugh)
Fuller.
William Fuller is also a native of Madison county, and has spent
his entire eai'eer on the farm which he is now cultivating. He is
essentially an agriculturist, but has also been active in other lines of
endeavor, and haj, interested himself in all matters pertaining to the
welfare of his community. Hy his marriage with EUa Millspaugh he
became the father of two children : Rena, who is now deceased, and
Tillman. He married for his second wife Anna Shockey, and they had a
family of nine children, of whom seven are now living: Prank M.,
Grover, Raymond, Pauline, who married Mr. L. C. Johnson; Hazel,
who married I\Ir. E. T. Moehler; Muriel and William.
Tillman Fuller received his education in the schools of Monroe
township and the village of Alexandria, and in the latter took high
school work. During the summer months he assisted his father in the
work of the home farm, being thoroughly trained in all things neces-
sary for a good agriculturist to be familiar with, and at the age of
twenty-two years rented a tract of land from his father and embarked
upon a career of his own. As time has passed and his finances have
permitted, he has added to his buildings, his stock and his improve-
ments, and the propertj' is now considered one of the best of its size
in the township. He is a stanch advocate of the use of modern meth-
ods and improved machinery, and has made a careful and comprehen-
sive study of agricultural conditions here. Although the greater part
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 773
of his attention has been devoted to general farming, he has also made
a success of his stock-breeding ventures.
On June 28, 1897, Mr. Fuller was united in marriage with Martha
Fosuot, who was born in Madison county, Indiana, daughter of Fred
and Nola (Jones) Fosnot. ,Mr. Fosuot has long been prominent in
county aliEairs and is the owner of a large property here. Five children
have been born to :Mr. and Mrs. Fuller, namely: Mildred, Clifton,
Delnias, Cletis and Audrey, the last named being deceased. I\Ir. and
Mrs. Fuller are members of the Christian church, and have been liberal
in their support of its movements. He is a valued member of the local
lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he has a
number of warm friends.
LoRAN.\ (AVisE) Coy. One of the remarkable pioneer women of
Madison county, is Mrs. Coy, now living at her home in Jackson town-
ship, surrounded by children and grandchildren, and through the mist
of recollections surveying a vast retrospect of scenes which have been
enacted in Madison county since her girlhood. Her birth occurred in
this county at a time when its settlement had hardly well begun, and no
name in the annals of IMadison county has older associations than that
of Wise.
In the old commonwealth of Virginia, the Wises have been promi-
nent and aristocratic since the colonial era, and it was from one of
the earlier branches of the same stock, that the Madison county
people of that name sprung. Jlrs. Coy was born on the old Wise home-
stead in Jackson township, January 22, 1832. Her father was Daniel
Wise, Sr., who was born on the south branch of the Potomac River in
Virginia. Grandfather John Wise was a native of the same locality
and spent most of his active career in Virginia, though late in life he
moved to Indiana, and passed his last years in Madison county. His
remains are buried in the Perkinsville cemetery.
Daniel Wise, Sr., grew up in old Virginia, and from there moved
to Ohio, and after a short time made his way across the wilderness of
forest and prairie into eastern Indiana. The journey was typical of
many such which occurred during the twenties and thirties and which
brought most of the settlers to Madison county. Ox teams and wagons
transported the goods and caiTied the women and children overland
through the trails made through the woods, and Daniel Wise arrived'
in Madison county in the year 1825. To him belongs the distinction
of having entered the tirst government land in Jackson township. That
land was in sections two and three, township nineteen, range six east,
now called Jackson township. Others may have preceded him to this
locality, but it is a justitiable conclusion that he was the first perma-
nent settler. Arriving at his location, his tirst work was to cut down a
few trees and clear otf the underbrush to make space for the log cabin
home. With the help perhaps of some distant neighbors, he put together
and erected his house of logs, and the family occupied that residence
for several years. It was in such a rude shelter that Mrs. Coy was born.
It may serve better to indicate how early the Wise family settled
in Madison county, when it is recalled that a quarter of a century elapsed
before the first railroad train went across the b(tundaries of the county.
Madison county was not organized for several years afterward. Only
a short time before had the. capital of the state been moved from Cory-
don to Indianapolis. Indiana had been a state less than ten years when
774 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the Wises made their settlement. In the woods and on the prairies all
about their lonely home was abundance of wild deer, turkeys, and Indians
often stalked through these old hunting grounds. A number of years
passed before what was known as the Indiana Canal era began, and in
the early years of the Wise settlement all the people in this community
took their surplus products to Cincinnati, over a long road, and laid
in their annual supplies at that city.
The mother of Mrs. Coy was a fine type of the old pioneer house-
wife. She carded, spun and wove the wool and flax with which she
dressed all members of her family in homespun, and all the cooking
was done by the old-fashioned fireplace. After a few years residence
in the log home, Daniel Wise, Sr., built a substantial brick house, one
of the first in that section of the county. This home which has since
been badly damaged by cyclones on two different occasions, but each
time repaired, is still in good condition, and a landmark in its vicinity.
In that home, Daniel Wise lived until his death at the age of fifty-three
years.
He married Mary Miller, .who was born in Virginia, and who died
at the age of seventy-two. She reared seven of her nine children.
Mrs. Coy has herself experienced and witnessed practically all phases
of pioneer life. She attended school taught in a log cabin. She well
remembers its earth and stick chimney, its large fire-place,' the seats
made of split logs, with wooden pins for legs, the absence of desks in
the modern sense, and the broad boards slanting about the walls used
as a writing desk for the larger scholars. In the work of the house-
hold she assisted her mother, in the carding, spinning and weaving of
cloth, and has done her share of cooking by the fire-place.
In her nineteenth year she married Matthew Coy, he was born in
Hamilton county, Indiana, a son of Benjamin and Jennie (Conner)
Coy, pioneer settlers of that county. After their marriage, Mr. and
Mrs. Coy moved to the northside of White River, where they bought a
tract of land in the southeast quarter of section thirty-five, range six,
Jackson township, ]\Iadison county. There they began their housekeep-
ing in a hewed log house of four rooms. For twelve years that con-
tinued to be their home and then they traded for land in sections one
and two of the same township. ^Ir, Coy was a very successful farmer
.and business man. Industrious, he cleared a large farm, erected good
buildings, and the homestead in its improvement might compare favor-
ably with any in the township. There he lived until the close of his
life on April 14, 1904.
Mrs. Coy has since occupied the homestead, her household also com-
prising the' family of her youngest daughter. She reared eleven chil-
dren, whose names were : Benjamin, Henry A., John W., George W.,
Mary J., Daniel W., Martin Luther, Seth Thomas, Sanford, Lillie, and
Perry.
There are a large number of grandchildren, and the marriages of
the different children are noted as follows: Benjamin married Emma
Johnson. Henry A. married Alice jMcClintock, and their four children
are Minnie, Walter, Ivy and Grace. George married Sarah Williams.
John W. married Cynthia Lee, and their two children are Eva and
Alvah. Mary, married Allen Wise. Daniel married Lou Lutz. Martin
Luther married Ida Anderson and has two children, June and Reba.
Seth married Pearl Shaul, and their one son is Harris. Sanford mar-
ried Gertrude DeWitt, and their four children are Hallie, Leah, Mary
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 775
and Loel. Lillie became the wife of William Busby and their children
are Matthew and Lorana. Perry married Dora Morris, and their two
children are Fern and Lois.
Noah Ryan. Jackson township in Madison county probably has no
older native son than Noah Ryan, who has lived here since his birth,
nearly seventy years ago. Through his father and mother he repre-
sents some of the oldest families to be established in this section of
Madison county, and the name has always been associated with honest
worth and excellent citizenship. Mr. Ryan is himself numbered among
the prosperous agriculturists of Madison county, and for many years
he has followed the quiet vocation of tilling the soil and at the same
time has borne his share in local civic and social affairs.
Noah Ryan was born in Jackson township, October 24, 1845. He
is a son of John Ryan, a grandson of Davis Ryan, a great-grandson of
George Ryan. The last named was a native of Scotland, coming to
America and settling in Pennsylvania. A millwright by trade he fol-
lowed that occupation in Pennsylvania until his death. Grandfather
David Ryan learned the same trade, and from Pennsylvania moved
to Ohio, becoming an early settler in Ross county. Davis Ryan was a
native of near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In Ross county, Ohio, he con-
tinued to work at his mechanical occupation until about 1837, when he
moved to Indiana, and found a home near Strawtown, where he remained
until his death at the age of seventy-six. Davis Ryan married Mary
Peck. Born in Virginia and of German ancestry, she came to Indiana
with her parents, who became pioneers in Hamilton county, leaving
many descendants of that name in that section. Her death occurred
at the age of seventy-five and the five children in her family were:
John, Cyrus, Julia A., George and William.
John Ryan, father of Noah, was born in Ross county, Ohio, March
11, 1822, and was about fifteen years old when the family was trans-
planted to Indiana soil. Growing to manhood he bought a tract of
timbered land in section three of Township County, range six east and
had to clear a space among the woods in order to make room for a log
cabin home. This first shelter of the family was a substantial house
for its time, twenty by twenty-four feet, and in that rude structure
his children were born. In time he had cleared away most of the forest,
and continued in the worthy occupation of agriculture, until his death
at the age of fifty-five. John Ryan married Lovina Wise of the pioneer
Wise family, which has been so conspicuous in the settlement and devel-
opment of' Jackson township. She was born in Madison county, a
daughter of Daniel and Mary (Miller) Wise. Daniel Wise entered
the first tract of government land in Jackson township. Further details
concerning this old family will be found under the names of Wise and
Coy elsewhere in this volume. Lovina Wise died at the age of fifty-six
having reared seven children namely : Noah, David, Mary, John, Martha,
Grant and William.
Noah Ryan who was born in the old log house previously mentioned
grew up largely amid pioneer surroundings, and his education was
supplied bv the schools existing in this oounty during the decade of
the fifties." Later he was sent to Westfield Academy, and qualified as
a teacher, a vocation which he followed for four years. Outside of
that he has been engaged in farming throughout his active lifetime.
In 1879 he settled on the farm he now occupies, in section one of town-
776 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
ship twenty, range six east, and has employed his energies, in general
farming with exceptional success. On the second of December, 1869,
Mr. Ryan married Samantha Wise, who was born in Jackson township,
a daughter of John and Harriet (McClintock) Wise. Mr. and Mrs.
Ryan have four children : Clara, Emma, Lucretia, and John. Emma
married Frank Anderson, and their seven children are Lena, Wilbur,
Paul, Robert, Clare, Ralph and HaiTiet. In politics Mr. Ryan casts
his first vote for General Grant, and has been a consistent supporter of
the Republican party and principles ever since. He and his wife are
members of the Methodist church.
Thomas M. Norton. The industrial history of Anderson and Madi-
son county records the name of Thomas M. Norton, who for many
years was one of their leading business factors, a pioneer in tiie truest
sense of the word and one who maintained a high standard of citizen-
ship. He was a native son of Ireland, born in 1835, and was but a babe
of two years when brought to this country by his parents, the family
locating near Dayton, Ohio. There the lad received his educational
tri ling in the public schools and there he also learned the trade of a
carpenter, gradually drifting into contracting. During the early years
of e 'sixties he went to Union City, Indiana, where he became asso-
ciated with Louis Williams in the ale brewing business, and from there
in io66 he came to Anderson and formed a partnership with Patrick
Sullivan, they establishing the first ale brewery in northern Indiana,
while some time later Michael Cromley became identified with the firm.
In 1882 Mr. Norton began the brewing of beer on his own account,
and from that time until his life's labors were ended in death he con-
tinued to devote his time and energy to the development of a business
which grew extensively throughout this section of the state. He at all
times gave his closest attention to the business which he had established
and cast aside whatever aspirations he may have had for public life,
although he- was never indifferent to the duties of good citizenship. He
was a member of the first board of Worker's Trustees in Anderson and
served thereon for ten. years, the other members being L. J. Burr and
Henry Bronnenberg, while later Harrison Quick also became a member.
Mr. Norton made but one trip to his native land, in 1896, and he spent
the year touring the continent, then returning to Anderson, the city
which he had helped to build, but at this time he turned over his busi-
ness to his sons and spent the remainder of his days in quiet retirement.
During his residence here he had formed many lasting friendships.
In his business relations Thomas M. Norton was cordial, pleasant and
honest ; to the needy he was generous and liberal ; and many families
who were beneficiaries of his benevolences sadly mourned his death.
In the home circle he was devoted to his family, liberal and indulgent
to their every want. It had been the custom to make an annual trip
to the south for the winters, and the plans had been completed for the
trip when Mr. Norton was suddenly stricken ill. and after several weeks
passed away as the result of apoplexy.
In 1861, in Piqua, Ohio, Mr. Norton was married to Miss Katherine
McCarthy, who survives her husband, as do also their four children :
Mrs. J. C. Kreuch, Mrs. M. J. Crowley and Martin C. and William J.
Norton, all of whom reside in Anderson. Mr. Norton also left a brother
and sister, M. Norton, of Piqua, and Mrs. Mary Hoban, of Dayton,
Ohio. Mr. Norton maintained fraternal relations with the Ancient
THOilAS M. NORTON
HISTOKY OF MADISON COUNTY 777
Order of Hibernians and his religious connection was with St. Mary's
church, in the support of which he was ever Liberal. Father Mulcahy,
of that church, officiated at the funeral, and this loved, honored and
revered pioneer was laid to rest in St. Mary's cemetery.
William J. Norton, cue of the sons of Thomas M. Norton, has also
gained and maintained a high standard of citizenship, and is well iinown
in the business circles of Anderson as the secretary and treasurer of
the T. M. Norton Brewing Company. He is one of the city's native
sons, born on the 9th of April, 1869, and he received his education in
its public and higli, schools. After leaving school he entered the oflfice
of his father's brewer}-, and there he remained until the elder man's
death, thoroughly familiarizing himself with -all the details of the large
business. Since the death of Thomas JI. Norton the business has been con-
tinued under the name of the T. M. Norton Brewing Company, with Mar-
tin C. Norton as president and William J. Norton as secretary and treas-
urer. Although essentially a business man, with no aspirations for public
office, ilr. Norton is proud of the achievements of his native city, and
when matters of public moment have come up for settlement with other
earnest citizens he has guided his actions by a sincere devotion to the
public welfare. His fraternal connections are with the Fraternal Order
of Eagles and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.
On June 14, 1893, i\Ir. Norton was married to Miss Josephine Elters,
of Anderson, and they have three children : Charles T., Kathleen and
Harold S. 'The Norton residence is located at 122 Seventh street, and
Mr. Norton is also the owner of other valuable city realty.
John G. JIcIlwraith. In tracing the lives and characters of those
who have won eminence in the professions and in business, it is found
that among the most successful are men who have been content to start
at the bottom of the ladder and to force their way steadily upward to
their rightful place among their fellow-citizens. In this class stands
John G. Mcllwraith, secretary and treasurer of the Indiana Box Com-
pany, of Ehvood. Jlr. ilclhvraith's residence is at Anderson, but he
has taken a lively interest in the aifairs of Elwood, where his influence,
always for good, is felt in public matters. He is a Canadian by birth,
his home being the city of Hamilton, and his birth date December 31,
1865. Mr. Mcllwraith is a son of Thomas and Mary (Park) Mcllwraith,
and on both sides of the family is descended from natives of Scotland.
Thomas Mcllwraith was born at Ayr, Scotland, and was there reared
and educated. Shortly after his marriage, he emigrated -to America,
locating at Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, where he became manager of
the gas works, a position which he held for many years. He subse-
quently became a brick manufacturer, but about the year 1870 bought
out a forwarding business, owning the locks over which goods were
shipped to the West. He also dealt extensively in coal and ice and had
other profitable investments. As a young man, Mr. Mcllwraith became
interested in the study of ornithology and taxidermy, and this he made
his hobby throughout life. He became president of the American Orni-
thological Society, and wrote a number of works in regard to his art,
one of which, "The Birds of Ontario," attracted nation-wide attention.
His prominence in that line led him to exchange bird specimens with
taxidermists all over the world, his collection was one of the most
valuable to be found in Ontario, and he was a recognized authority
on all matters pertaining to this interesting study. Mr. Mcllwraith
778 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
died in Hamilton, in 1903, aged about eighty-five years, and the flag
on the Government building was hung at half-mast. He was promi-
nent in the business life of the city, and took a decided interest in its
welfare and development. His religious belief was that of the Presby-
terian Church, as was also that of his wife, who died in 1901, when
about eighty-three years of age. They were the parents of seven chil-
dren, as follows: Thomas F., who is a coal merchant at Hamilton,
Canada; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of R. J. Service, of Detroit,
Michigan; Jane, single, a book reviewer for the firm of Doubleday,
Page & Company, Garden City, New York; Helen, who became the
wife of' John H. Holl, of Quebec, Canada; Hugh, who is engaged in
the manufacture of boxes at Newcastle, Pennsylvania; John G., of this
review, and Dr. Kennedy, a practicing physician of Toronto, Canada.
John G. Mellwraith was reared to manhood in Hamilton, Canada,
receiving his education in the public schools of his native land, and
in 1884 came to the United States, where he secured employment as
a clerk in a Detroit wholesale hardware store. Six months later he
became freight clerk for the Detroit & Cleveland Steam Navigation
Company, continuing with that line during 1884 and 1885, and in 1886
went to Muskegon, Michigan, where he acted in the capacity of manager
for the Munroe Manufacturing Company until 1891. In that year,
with two Muskegon lumbermen, he organized the Indiana Box Com-
pany, at Anderson, Indiana, to which city he removed the same year,
locating permanently. In 1899 the Indiana Box Company purchased
the plant of the Elwood Box Company, and until 1903 operated both
plants. The Anderson plant being destroyed in that year, the business
was concentrated at Elwood, where about seventy-five persons are
employed in the manufacture of wooden boxes for packing purposes,
especially for glass and tin-plate. The business of the concern increased
so rapidly that the proprietors soon purchased the plant of the Munroe
Manufacturing Company, at Muskegon, Michigan, which is operated as
a branch, although hiring more people, there being about 150 employes
in that factory. Although his business is located at Elwood, Mr.
Mellwraith continues to make his home at Indiana, where he has a
modem residence at No. 1121 Central avenue. He has interested him-
self in the progress and development of both places, and is known as
one of the substantial men of good judgment who can be relied upon
to support beneficial measures.
On April 21, 1897, Mr. Mellwraith was married to Miss Martha Chit-
tenden, who .was born at Anderson, Indiana, daughter of Dr. G. F.
and Amanda Chittenden. Dr. Chittenden was long prominent with
Madison county's history, especially during the Civil War, after which
he was engaged in the practice of medicine. He still resides in Ander-
son, although now somewhat retired, while his wife has passed away.
They had three children : Carrie, Edgar and Martha. To Mr. and
Mrs. Mellwraith there have come three children: Mary Park, Helen
Adair and Worden. Mr. and Mrs. Mellwraith are members of the
Presbyterian Church. He was a Democrat until the national campaign
of 1896, when he transferred his allegiance to the Republican party,
which has since received his support.
Oliver H. Burdett. The owner of a fine country estate of one
hundred and eighty acres in section nineteen in Fall Creek township. Mr.
Burdett was born in the township of his present residence and near the
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 779
farm which he now occupies and cultivates. He represents one of the
old families of Madison county, and in his generation has given a faith-
ful account of his life as a stewart in the administration of an inherit-
ance which the pioneer members of the family established, and created.
Oliver H. Burdett was born on a farm near his present residence
in Fall Creek township on August 18, 1850, and was a son of Christopher
and Mary (Shaul) Burdett. Christopher Burdett was bom in Green-
brier county, West Virginia, in 1813, and died March 22, 1855. His
wife was born in Ohio and came to Madison county with her parents
among the very tirst pioneers of this section of Indiana. Her parents
located on section thirty in Fall Creek township, entering the land
from the Government and established their tirst home ip the environ-
ment of Green Woods. Isolated from other settlers and with practically
no communication with the outside world except by the blazed trails
through the woods. Christopher Burdett was also an early settler of
this county, and became a large land owner and a prosperous and
influential citizen, ilr. Burdett 's mother died many years ago and she
was the mother of six children, three of whom are living in 1913. Eliza
is the W'ife of Stephen W^ard, and a resident at Thorn town, Indiana;
Alexander Burdett is the other son now living. Two of the sons, John
and Leonidas, were soldiers of the Uiiion army during the Civil war.
Oliver H. Burdett was reared on the old farm, and as soon as old
enough was sent to the district schools, which he attended during the
winter seasons, alternating his schooling with work on the home place.
W^hen he was about eighteen years of age he took up farm work in
earnest, but remained at home helping cultivate the acres of the old
estate until he was twenty-three years of age. He and his brother
Alexander now own the old homestead which is d. splendid estate and
shows the thrift and excellent management of two generations of farm-
ers since it was first cleared up from the native wilderness. Mr. Bur-
dett was married November 13, 1873, to Miss Margaret Alfont, who
was born in Green township, Madison county, April 10, 1851. She
received her education in the public schools of her native township,
and was a daughter of Robert Alfont. Seven children have been born into
the Burdett home, and five are living in the present year, 1913, namely:
Edward C, who graduated from the common schools and spent two
years in the high school and during the last American war was a mem-
ber of Company E in the Thirty-first Indiana Regiment during the
Philippine war, spending about two years altogether in those islands.
Mintie. a graduate of the eonnnon schools and the wife of James ^Tar-
man of Ohio ; Howard D., a graduate of the common schools and a prac-
tical farmer; Eva, who was also a student in the local schools, and is
the wife of Albert Russell of Lapel, this county ; Raymond who com-
pleted his education in the Pendleton high schools. The family are
members of the Christian church at Pendleton, and Mr. Burdett is
affiliated with the Improved Order of Red Men at the same place. In
politics he is a Progressive. As a general farmer and stock raiser he
has prospered beyond the ordinary and the superficial appearance of
his estate indicates thrift and good management in every detail. He
enjoys the thorough respect and esteem of his entire community, and
has taken considerable interest in local politics, having served on the
county central committee.
James A. Fowxer. Creditable to both the community and the indi-
vidual is the career of a man who began life without advantages, with-
780 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
out influences, with nothing but the resources of his hand and the
judgment of his mind, and who against heavy odds acquired position
and a satisfying degree of material prosperity. Probably few men in
the Madison county citizenship of today are better examples of such
a self-made career than Mr. James A. Fowler, of FaU Creek township.
When he came to Madison county, Indiana, he had nothing but the
few clothes on his back. He was willing to work, and so well did he
use his physical energy and with such faithfulness to his employers
that it has always remained a matter of pride that he could have stayed
as long as he wished in any position which he ever held. He has reared
an interesting family, and is a man of high standing, and is thoroughly
posted on the, affairs of the state and nation. He is at the present time
the efficient town assessor of Fall Creek township, and enjoys every-
where the esteem and admiration paid to a man of such achievements.
James A. Fowler was born in the state of Tennessee in Hawkins
county, December 30, 1859, a son of Henry and Lucinda (Wright)
Fowler. His father was a farmer of Tennessee, and though a Union
man in his sympathies was drafted into the Confederate army, and his
death occurred during the war on August 14, 1863. The mother was
born in North Carolina, November 22, 1837, and is still living. After
the death of her husband the mother and her family left Tennessee,
going to Madison county, Kentucky, later to Ohio, and subsequently
back to Kentucky, and after a year or two James A. Fowler and his
mother arrived in Fall Creek township in March, 1872. It is in no
way discreditable to the now prosperous citizens of Fall Creek town-
ship to state that he and the family at that time were very poor people,
and while not dependent upon the public bounty in any sense, they
actually lived with starvation only a few days distance.
James A. Fowler began his career in this county as a laboi'er for
Elwood Brown, and for six or eight years he worked for Mr. J. L.
Thomas. It was in this way that he got his start, and finally learned
the carpenters trade. During his youth he had had few chances to
attend school, and it was really after he was grown that he applied him-
self at leisure intervals and has gained many of the accomplishments
which are associated with education and has informed himself beyond
the average.
Early in his career Mr. Fowler married Miss Emma Jarret of Adams
township, where she was bom. Six children were born of their mar-
riage, and are named as follows : Arthur, who is a graduate of the
county schools, and is now a resident of Indianapolis; Chester, a grad-
uate of the common schools, and now in Indianapolis; Carrie, the wife
of Lawrence Prigg, of Middletown, Indiana; Earl, who is married and
lives in Fall Creek township ; and Maude and Eva, both unmarried
and living at home. Mr. Fowler and family are members of the United
Brethren church, and he is superintendent of the Sunday school and
one of the most active workers in his local congregation. Fraternally
he is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the
Knights of Pythias, being a. past noble grand in the latter fraternity.
Mr. Fowler is a Republican of the pronounced type, has always given
active afl&liation to the party both in local and state affairs, and has
recently been honored with election to the office of township assessor
of Fall Creek township. As a result of his prosperous career, Mr.
Fowler is now owner of eighty-three acres of land, a fine homestead in
Fall Creek township.
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 781
James M. Rittenour. It would be difiBcult to find, even in a com-
munity which can boast of its substantial and public-spirited men, one
who deserves the eontideiice £uid respect of his fellow-citizens in greater
degree than does James M. Rittenour, of Adams township. Through
his industry, perseverance and tidelitj' to every duty of life, he has
succeeded in making a comfortable home for himself and family, and
has acquired large farming interests, while he has also at all times had
the welfare of his community at heart and in various ways has assisted
in its growth and development. James Morgan Rittenour was born in
Shenandoah county of Virginia, Januarj- 1, 1848, and is a son of Elias
and Lydia (Coffnian) Rittenour. He comes of a family that has had a
brilliant military record, the grandfather of Mr. Rittenour having served
as a soldier in the Colonial army during the War of the Revolution.
The parents of ]\Ir. Rittenour were born and reaped in Virginia, and
there married, and in 1855 journeyed overland to Henry county, Indiana,
where they spent two years, then pushing on to Madison county, settling
in Adams township. Elias Rittenour here engaged in farming and
became one of the valuable citizens of his community. He took a
prominent part in local civic affairs, and while he never sought public
office was an earnest and hard-working citizen in securing benefits for
his adopted community. His death occurred in February, 1902, his
wife having passed away in 1884. Of their six children, four are liv-
ing in 1913: J. M. Rittenour, of this review; William H., who is a
retired farmer and now makes his home at Anderson, Indiana ; George,
who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Adams township ; and Alice,
who is the wife of George Yanger, of this township.
James Morgan Rittenour was seven years of age when he accom-
panied his parents to Heni-j' county, Indiana, and there he commenced
his education in the district schools. When he was nine the family
came to Adams township, and here he continued his studies during the
short winter terms, while he spent the summer months of his boyhood
and youth in assisting his father in cultivating the homestead farm.
Mr. Rittenour continued under the parental roof until his marriage,
at which time he embarked upon a career of his own, and so ably has
he directed his operations that he is now the owner of 310 acres of land,
all in a high state of cultivation, eighty acres being located in Henry
county. His high standing in his community is ample evidence of the
integrity which lias ever governed his actions, and those who have had
dealings of a business nature with him are ready to vouch for his
honest methods and fair dealing. It is characteristic of Mr. Rittenour
that he should attribute much of his success in life to the assistance
and counsel of his wife, who has been his sympathetic comforter in
times of discouragement and his greatest encouragement when he has
needed faith in his undertakings. A pleasant, hospitable couple, their
many excellencies of heart and character have drawn about them a wide
circle of friends, and throughout the community they are held in the
Mrs. Rittenour was formerly Miss Emma Mitchell, and was born
in Henry county, Indiana, where she received her training on a farm
and her education in the public schools. She was married to Mr.
Rittenour August 15. 1872, and they have had one son, Jesse E., born
January 28, 1883, a graduate of the common schools, who completed
his education in Pendleton high school and Spiceland Academy. He
was married September 11, 1911. His wife, who was born in Henry
782 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
county, Indiana, is a lady of much eharm and many accomplishments.
Mr. Rittenour and his wife are consistent members of the Christian
church at Ovid, Indiana, and have been active in its work. He is a
Democrat in politics, but has taken little other than a good citizen's
interest in public matters. Fraternally, he is connected with Mechau-
icsburg Lodge No. 39, A. F. & A. M., of which his son is also a mem-
ber, is Master of the Lodge, and also holds membership in Anderson
Chapter No. 52, R. A. M., and Anderson Council, R. & S. M.
Eugene Benjamin Hartley. By reason of his long and success-
ful career as a merchant, but perhaps more on account of his success
in developing a stable of noted racing horses, Eugene Benjamin Hart-
ley up to the time of his death held a prominent posilTion in Madison
county and is a well remembered citizen. His death occurred at
Anderson.
Eugene Benjamin Hartley was born near Fairmount in Marion
county, Virginia, in September, 1828. His birth occurred on the old
Hartley homestead in that part of the old Dominion. His education
was acquired by attendance at the select schools, as they were called,
but which would hardly compare in facilities and in advantages of
instruction with the poorest country school of the present day. When
he was a boy the family moved to Indiana, becoming early settlers of
Henry county, and from Virginia had made the journey by water on a
flatboat down the Ohio river as far as Cincinnati, and thence crossed
the country overland with wagon and team to Henry county. His
father, Joseph Hartley, died after two years of residence in Indiana,
and the family soon afterwards returned to Virginia to the old home
farm. Being the oldest of a large family, Eugene B. Hartley had to
assume many of the responsibilities in the management of the place,
and his mother came to depend on him as her chief support. His
first business was as a general merchant at Fairmount in his native
county, and he continued a merchant throughout his career.
About fifty years ago he moved out to Indiana and settled in Henry
county, and about 1863 located at Anderson, and soon afterwards opened
a general store and grocery at the corner of Tenth and Main streets,
on the northeast corner. Many of the old settlers remember his place
of business at that location. He sold goods there until about three
years before his death. As he had a large trade and was progressive
in his business methods, he was one of the first grocer^' men in Ander-
son to deliver groceries by wagon. One of the horses which he drove
to his delivery wagon developed a great deal of speed, and vvas able
to outstep any other horse in the town, whether driven in a regular
race, or with the delivery wasron behind him. Mr. Hartley took a good
deal of pains with this horse, and after taking it out of the harness of
the delivery wagon gave it the name " Stride- Away " which became a
noted trotter all over this section of Indiana. It was his success with
" Stride- Away " that started Mr. Hartley in his career as a developer of
fine racing stock. He became the owner of a string of famous trotters,
and among the best known were "Katy D." and "Ruth."
The late Mr. Hartley was a Democrat in politics and a member of
the Methodist church. He was married in the country district of Vir-
ginia near his native town of Fairmount to Elizabeth Carpenter. Their
three children were Joseph, Mary and James. The mother died in
1863, and he afterwards married Josephine Phillips, who died in 1889,
^^<y\xuc Y^ y^/t/^J^^-
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 7R5i
without children. His daughter, Mrs. Mary Moss, now resides at 212
W. 1 1th street in Anderson.
George H. Hockett, M. D. The medical fraternity of Madison
county includes among its members Dr. George H. Hockett, of Ander-
sniT, a practitioner who has gained distinction in the profession within
a few short years. But doubtless much of his recognized talent is inher-
ited from his father, who was for years a well known physician of
Wilmington, Ohio. However, the physician and surgeon of to-day faces
an entirely different proposition from that confronting the doctor of a
(|uarter of a century ago. Each day brings some new discovery, some
improved method of combating disease, which but adds to the strictness
of requirements, so that the younger physicians of 1913 are often better
fitted to cope with disease than those who have had many years of expe-
rience behind them, A close student of his profession. Dr. Hockett has-
kept fully abreast of the various changes and advancements which are
constantly being made, and his skill and success in a number of com-
plicated cases have won him the confidence and patronage of a large and
representative practice.
George H. Hockett was born in the city of Anderson, Indiana, July
14, 188.3, the youngest son of Dr. Zimri Hockett. The latter, born on
a farm near Clarksville, Clinton county, Ohio, passed his boyhood and
early school days in that city, and after preparing himself at the Ohio
Medical College, Cincinnati, practiced his profession in his native city
for a number of years. Later he came to Anderson, Indiana, where he
became equally well known. George H. Hockett. the son, received his
early education in the public and high schools of Anderson, and after
his graduation from the latter in 1901, began the study of medicine.
After some preparation he entered the Hering Homeopathic Medical
College; Chicago, and was graduated therefrom in 1910. Returning to
Anderson, he at once opened offices in the Union Building, where he
now has a well appointed suite, equipped with every convenience for the
comfort of his patients. He was not long in gaining a lucrative practice,
and is now numbered among the successful young medical men of the
city. He is a valued member of the Homeopathic IMedical Society of
Indiana, in the work of which he takes a keen and active interest, and
also has membership relations with the American Institute of Homeo-
pathy and the International Hahnemann Association. He is a strict
observer of the unwritten ethics of the profession, and as a result his
standing among his professional brethren is high.
On the 2d of January, 1902, Dr. Hockett was united in marriage with
]\Iiss Edna Curtis, a daughter of Marion Curtis, a well known farmer
of Fortville, Indiana. They have two sons, Harry and Maurice. The
family attend the Christian" church. The Doctor's fraternal connections
include his membership in the Masonic order, affiliating with Mt. Moriah
Lodge, No. 77, F. & A. M., Anderson Chapter, R. A. M., Anderson Com-
mandery, K. T.. and ]\Iurat Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., of Indianapolis,
and he is also a member of the local lodge of the Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks and the Modern "Woodmen of America. He is
independent in his political affiliations, but he has manifested a com-
mendable willingness to as,sist in all movements which have been put
forward for the betterment of Anderson and its people, taking only a
good citizen's part in affairs of a public nature. His comfortable mod-
ern residence is situated at 138 W. 9tl'. St.
784 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
Herman G. Hughel. Travel and experience are undoubtedly help-
ful in the successful pursuit of any calling, for in this manner the mind
is broadened, new ideas are secured and hitherto unknowii methods are
witnessed and given a trial. Few farmers of Madison county have
enjoyed greater advantages in this connection than has Herman G.
Hughel, the owner of 120 acres of land, the greater part of which prop-
erty is located in Union township. Mr. Hughel has attained his success
as a farmer and stock feeder through the medium of individual effort,
and in his work has used progressive methods observed in his travels in
various parts of the country. He is a native son of Madison county,
having been born on a farm in Anderson township, in 1864, and is a son
of Samuel and Leanna Dye (Louthain) Hughel, she being a grand-
daughter of Andrew Dye, one of the founders of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.
Educated in the public schools of Anderson township, Mr Hughel
spent his boyhood on his father's property, being thoroughly trained to
follow the vocation of a successful farmer, and upon attaining his major-
ity embarked upon a career of his own. For some years he traveled
extensively, visiting many different states, but eventually returned
to JIadison county where he now is located in his comfortable home on
Anderson Rural Roiite No. 4. A practical, hard-headed man of business
he has demonstrated his ability in the management of his affairs, and
the excellent condition of his property, his fine grade of cattle, and the
prosperous crops which he raises upon his fertile fields, gives him the
right to the title of representative agriculturist of Anderson township.
On October 8, 1890, Mr. Hughel was married to Miss E. Victoria
Matthew, daughter of John and Nancy H. (Middletown) Matthew, both
of whom came to Madison county from Ross county, Ohio. John
Matthew was a native of Cupar, Scotland, and came to America at the age
of twenty, settling in Ross county, Ohio. Three children have been
bom to Mr. and Mrs. Hughel, namely : John Samuel, who is a grad-
uate of the Anderson High school and has spent two years in the
Indiana State University, was recently married to Miss Margrette J.
Mowrey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Mowrey of Middletown,
Indiana; Howard H., a graduate of the Anderson High school; and
Frank L., who is still attending that school. ]\Ir. and Mrs Hughel are
consistent members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Hughel's fraternal
connection is with the Knights of Pythias.
Hubert B. Manring. The leading photographer at Alexandria, Mr.
Manring has his studio at 116 N. E. Church street, and by superior work-
manship and prompt and careful service has acquired an excellent
patronage, and is one of the most successful men of his profession in
Madison county.
He was bom in Monroe township of Madison county, June 17, 1879,
a son of Ambrose A. and Angeline (Mabbitt) Manring. His paternal
grandfather was James Manring, who married Mary Hammond. They
were both natives of Virginia, and came to Madison county during the
pioneer period. They died in this county when well advanced in years,
the gi'andfather at the age of eighty-four and his wife when past
seventy. Their six children were : Dr. Nathaniel Manring, of Elwood ;
Ambrose A. ; James ; Edward ; Caroline, wife of John Spears of Ray,
Colorado ; and Ella, wife of Sylvester Potter of Yorktown, Indiana. The
maternal grandparents were Anthony and Jane Mabbitt, who were also
among the early settlers of Madison county in Richland township, where
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 785
both died. In their family were Granville; "William; George, deceased;
Annie; Angeline; Callie ; and Amanda.
The parents of Mr. Manring were both born in Indiana. The father
was reared in the county, and took up the occupation of farmer as his
regular vocation in life. In 1887 he moved into Deleware county, where
he bought a farm of eighty acres and reared his family. He still resides
on the old place in Deleware county, and also owns another farm of forty-
nine acres in Madison county. lie and his wife are members of the
Methodist church. Their six children were : Hubert B., of Alexandria ;
Homer W., of Monroe township, in this county; Lennie, widow of Lewis
Scott, of Deleware county ; Winnie, wife of Lloyd McCreery, of Gaston,
Indiana; Jennie, wife of Ralph Guyiuiup, of Gaston; and Errick, at
home.
Hubert B. Manring spent his youth on his father's farm in Madison
county and in Delaware county, and while growing up had the advan-
tages of the district schools and the grade schools at Cammack in Dela-
ware county. He subsequently was a student in the Northern Indiana
University at Valparaiso, and also the normal school at Muncie. After
leaving home he went out west, where he had much experience during
a year and a half, but then returned to his old home in Delaware county.
After his marriage he was engaged in farming a few years, and then
took up the study of photography with the intention of making it his
regular profession.
At Jlonroe, Michigan, he finished his preparatory work and then
had a six months' practical experience in Chicago. His work at the
profession was interrupted during the next two years, when he became
assistant to his brother, whose wife had died. Then in the fall of 1911
he located at Alexandria, and has since conducted his studio.
On September 10, 1904, Mr. Manring married Miss Dora Lewis,
daughter of B. S. and Mary E. (Bowman) Lewis. She was bom in
Wells county, Indiana, her father being a native of North Carolina,
and her mother a native of Jay county, Indiana. Her paternal grand-
parents were Henry and Sarah Mary Lewis, both natives of North
Carolina, and subsequently among the pioneers in Lafayette county,
Indiana. They died at Huntington, the former when about eighty-four
years of age. Among their children were Benjamin Franklin ; Nathan ;
Frances, and Lizzie. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Manring were
among the pioneers of Jay county, where her grandfather died and her
grandmother passed away in Gas City. Their three children were
Mary E., Mark S., and George Bowman. Benjamin S. Lewis, the. father
of Mrs. Manring, was reared on a farm in Lafayette county, Indiana, and
followed the trade of shoemaker, being a verj- expert workman in that
line. During the Civil war he entered the Sixty-fifth Regiment, Indiana
Infantry, and gave three years of service to the Union as a private
soldier. In later years he engaged in the real estate business at Gas
City. He is now in the hospital in the National Soldiers' Home at
Marion. His wife resides in Monroe, Michigan. Their ten children were
named : Sarah, Lizzie, Lando, Edward, Maude, Dora, Delia, Emerson,
Charles and John. Mr. and ^Irs. Manring are both members of the
Methodist church at Epworth. Politically Mr. :\Ianring favors and
supports the Prohibition party.
LoREN Small. One of the old and honored families of Madison
eountv is that of Small, members of which have been identified with
786 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
the agricultural interests of this section for upwards of sevent.v-five
years. A worthy representative of the name, who is maintaining the
family reputation for industry, integrity and good citizenship, is
found in the person of Loren Small, who has a farm of 110 acres in
Stony Creek township, where he resides with his father-in-law. Mr.
Small is a progressive farmer, being an advocate of modern methods
and ideas, the beneficial effect of which is shown in his well-tilled Kelds
and healthy, well-bred stock. Mr. Small was born in Madison county,
Indiana, December 7, 1876, and is a son of James Madison and Louise
(Todd) Small.
Some time in the latter thirties, Joseph Small, the grandfather of
Loren Small, left his native state of North Carolina, and with his wife
and children, among the latter James, journeyed overland to Madison
county and took up his home among the pioneers. He was an agricul-
turist, and reared his sons to become tillers of the soil, an occupation
which James Madison Small also followed all of his life. The latter
had a family of six children, of whom three survive: Jerry, who
resides in Anderson township ; Loren ; and Bertha, who married a Mr.
Hershbarger.
Loren Small secured a good common school education, attending
the old Shaw school, and his youth was passed on the home farm, wliere
he was thoroughly trained in the science of agriculture. He also
learned the stone mason's trade and worked thereat for some time, but
during the greater part of his life he has been a farmer. After his
marriage, he located on the property where he now lives, and his sub-
sequent career has been one of continued success. Probably a good
deal of his success in stock raising is due to his great fondness for
horses, a liking is almost a hobby. He has • been content to give
his entire time to his farming and stock raising operations and has
experienced no desire for the struggles of public life. He has, however,
manifested a commendable interest in matters that affect his commun-
ity, and at all times can be relied upon to support movements making
for progress and good governnient.
On August 26, 1904, Mr. Small was married. He has one child:
Orville Leroy. Mr. and Mrs. Small are consistent melnbers of the
Methodist Episcopal church, in which they number many warm
friends.
John Haines. Classed among the prominent and enterprising
farmers of Fall Creek township, Madison county, is fpund the subject
of this review, John Haines, the owner of 120 acres of well cultivated
land. Mr. Haines belongs to that class of progressive men who, having
spent their entire lives in this section, are thoroughly acquainted with
soil and climate conditions here, and as a result are able to gain a full
measure of success from their operations. He was bom in Fall Creek
township, Madison county, Indiana, September 15, 1867, and is a son
of Noah and Mary (Vernon) Haines.
Noah Haines was bom in 1849, at Centerville, Montgomery county,
Ohio, and was a youth of nine years when brought to Madison county.
Here he was reared to agricultural pursuits, receiving his education in
the district schools, and was still a young man when he enlisted for
service during the Civil war, joining the Union army as ■ private of
Company K, Eighth Regiment, Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which
he served throughout the remainder of the struggle between the North
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 787
and South. He saw a great deal of hard fighting with his regiment,
and at the siege of Vicksburg, in which the Eighth took an important
part, received a severe wound. On the close of hostilities, Mr. Haines
returned to Madison county and resumed the peaceful occupation of
farming, in which he was engaged until his death, which occurred in
1910. He exhibited the same characteristics of faithfulness to duty and
fidelity to trust in his private life that had marked his military career,
and became honored and respected by all who knew him. Mrs. Haines
survived her husband but a short time, dying June 12, 1912, the mother
of four children : John ; Ella, the wife of J. W. Jones, of Fall Creek
township; and Edward H., all of whom are carrying on operations in
this township ; and Olive M., single, a teacher in the schools of Adams
township. Olive and Ella own the old homestead of 180 acres.
John Haines was reared on his father's farm in Fall Creek town-
ship, and as a lad entered the district schools, which he attended, off
and on, during the winter terms, until he was twenty-two years of age.
At that time he commenced working on the old home farm for his
father, also attending Purdue University for a time. Whefa twenty-
seven years of age he became a renter and was so employed until Febru-
ary, 1898, when he bought a part of the farm on which he now Lives. He
has now a well-cultivated tract of 120 acres, on which he has made
improvements of an extensive and modern nature, and each year has
found the property increasing in value. He believes firmly in the use
of the latest ideas and machinery, and the general appearance of his
farm shows that he is an expert in his calling. In addition to general
farming, he has interested himself in the value of ensilage for cattle
feeding and other stock, and has erected ^ large cement silo. He has
been recently reelected as president of the Madison County Farmers
Institute Association. Mr. Haines is a stockholder and director in the
Pendleton Trust Company. In politics he is a Progressive. His fra-
ternal connection is with the Sicilian Lodge No. 234, Knights of Pythias,
and he is a member of the Friends church.
On February 17, 1896, Mr. Haines was married to Miss Kate Mauzy,
a natural artist, who was born in Adams township, and she died in
1902, without issue. Mr. Haines' second marriage occurred October 1,
1904. when he was united with Miss Mary S. Bebout, who was born in
Rush county. Indiana, but at this time was a professional nurse and a
doctor of medicine in Indianapolis, having received her degree as M. D.
in 1903. They have had one child, Mary B.. a bright and interesting
lassie of seven years.
Harrison C.^vnaday. For almost thirty years Harrison Canaday has
been a resident of Anderson, during all of which period he has been
prominentlv identified with the commercial and material progress of the
city His career adds another to the great inimber that Anderson has
furnished to the Middle West, of the grand results which are attained by
intelligence, tact and perseverance when applied to the building up of a
fortune under the favoring conditions which have, for half a century,
attended all of the city 's enterprises. It is true that durnig this period
unusual opportunities have opened to business men. but, they have only
yielded the meed of great success to those who have had the sagacity to
perceive them and the boldness to push thcTii to their best results. Ham-
son Canadav was born Mav 2. 1830. on a farm in Rush county, Indiana,
and is a son of Cable and Martha (Dwiggins) Canaday. The father was
788 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
a native of South Carolina and the mother of North Carolina, and shortly
after their marriage, in 1826, the parents moved to Rush county, Indiana,
where Mr. Canaday was engaged in farming for a few years. They then
moved to Madison county, settling on a tract of land near Elwood, the
original purchase of eighty acres being added to until there were three
hundred and twenty acres in the homestead. During the early years the
family experienced all the hardships incident to the clearing of land in
new country, but eventually Mr. Canaday became known as one of the
most prosperous farmers of his community. His death occurred in 1856,
his wife having passed a^ay some years before.
Harrisoh Canaday passed his boyhood and youth on the home farm,
his early education being secured in the subscription and district schools
dxiring the winter months. Mr. Canaday was married in his twenty-first
year to Miss EUzabeth Howard, a daughter of Joseph Howard, of Wayne
county, and after their marriage they settled on a farm in Wayne county,
there residing twelve years. In 1863, Mr. Canaday moved to Anderson
and purchased a farm two and one-half miles north of the city, com-
prising two hundred acres, to which he added from time to time until
he had three hundred and sisty-five acres, all of this property being put
in a high state of cultivation. This was one of the model farms of Rich-
land township, and was well stocked with all kinds of livestock, Mr.
Canaday dealing extensively in cattle, hogs and sheep, his principal mar-
kets being Boston and other eastern cities. During this time he became
recognized as one of the leading stock dealers of Madison couutj'. He
still is the owner of two farms in Lafayette township, coutainiug three
hundred and ninety acres and three hundred and sixty -live acres, respect-
ively, and these are weU stocked and leased out on shares.
In 1884 Mr. Canaday came to Anderson and became a stockholder
and director in the Anderson Banking Company, still retaining his
interests in this institution, one of the most substantial in the state.
He is also a stockholder in the Anderson Trust Company. His modern
■brick residence is located at No. 311 West Eleventh street. The busi-
ness qualities that are essential to the proper handling of these large
enterprises are obvious. To breadth and comprehensiveness of mind,
quickness to perceive opportunities and readiness to improve them,
energy and push, there must be added a capacity for organization, as
well as an attention to detail. In all these qualities Mr. Canaday excels.
Amidst his active business life, he has found time and manifested an
inclination to perform aU the duties of good citizenship. In politics he
is a Democrat. Of Mr. Canaday 's children there are two living, Joseph
R., and Ollie B., the latter the wife of George Quick. Three children
died when young. Mr. Canaday 's second wife was Victoria Teneyek.
He has been a member and a trustee of the Central Christian church
for many years. Though past his eighty-third year, he is still actively
engaged in managing his business, with mental powers unabated. So
methodical and well ordered have been all his operations that he has
not been a victim to the worries which beset those less happily con-
stituted. It may be said truthfully that he is one of Anderson's most
representative men.
Daniel Wise, Jr. The record of a very old and prominent family
in Madison county is that of the Wises. The list of original land
entries affords the most reliable record for determining the real pioneers
of any country. At the head of the list of land entrants in Jackson
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 789
township stands the name of Daniel Wise, Sr., who according to the
best sources of information was the first prominent white settler to
establish his home within the boundaries of what is now the civil town-
ship of Jackson. That was in 1825 several years before Madison county
was organized and less than ten years after Indiana became a state.
Thus nearly ninety years has passed away since the name first became
identified with this part of the state, and the greater number of the
descendants of the original settlers are now in the third and fourth
generation. Much of the interesting family history connected with this
name will be found in the sketch of a surviving daughter of Daniel
Wise, Sr., Mrs. Coy. on other pages of this volume.
Daniel Wise. Sr.. was a native of Virginia, born on the south branch
of the Potomac river, and was the son of John. Wise, also of Virgina
ancestry, and of a prominent old family in that commonwealth. John
Wise himself spent the closing years of his life in Madison county.
Daniel Wise, Sr., moved from Virginia first fo Ohio, and then in 1825
accomplished the long and tedious journey by team and wagon to the
wilderness between Ohio and Indiana. The wagon was piled with
household goods, and the family camped by the wayside at the close of
each day's journey. Practically the entire area of Madison county was
then included in government land, recently ceded by the Indians to
the United States and was for sale at one dollar and a quarter ($1.25)
per acre. Samuel Wise selected his land in sections two and three of
township nineteen, range six east, and most of the land included within
his original purchase has never passed out of the Wise ownership. In
the midst of the forest he cleared a space for the log cabin home, which
was the first shelter of the family, and there under /he shadows of the
primeval forest, abounding with its wild game, and occasionally haunted
by the Indians, began the life and activities of this worthy pioneer
household in Madison county. After a few years the log house was
replaced by a substantial brick structure, which though twice wrecked
by cyclones, has been rebuilt and is still standing as a landmark of a
previous generation. Daniel Wise lived there until his death. He mar-
ried in Virginia, Mary Miller, a native of that state. She survived her
husband many years, and reared seven children named as follows:
Lueinda, Huldah, Lovina, Seth, Perinia, Lorana and Daniel, Jr.
Daniel Wise, Jr., was born on the Wise homestead in Jackson town-
ship, May 4, 1833. His early life was spent amidst pioneer surround-
ings, and this environment has been elsewhere described in connection
with the career of his older sister, Mrs. Lorana Coy. When he was
still a boy he became inured to the practical work of the early farmer
in Madison county, and continued to devote his labors to agriculture
until his death. He succeeded to the ownership of the old homestead
of two hundred and ten acres, and it was in the old brick home that
he passed away in 1865, at the comparatively early age of thirty-two
years. Daniel Wise, Jr., married Susan Thurman, who was born in
Highland county, Ohio. Left a widow with a family of small children,
she" very capably managed the farm, and succeeded in rearing and
educating her children for useful parts in the world. She continued
to make her home on the old estate in Jackson township until her
death. June 11, 1912, when she was eighty-five years of age. Her chil-
dren were Wesley, Augusta Victoria, Mary A., Sarah A., and Seth.
Wesley Wise had been twice married and has four children named :
Woodie Hazel, Everett and Clark. Mary A. married August Busby,
790 HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY
and their two sons are Willis and Clifford. Sarah A. married San-
ford Tolin, and the four children of tlieir union are Olga, Vivian,
Harold and Eulan, all of whom are graduates of the Shortridge high
school at Indianapolis. Miss Augusta Victoria has for a number of years
had her home chietiy in Indianapolis, but the past two years were spent
at home caring for her mother, until the later 's death. Miss Wise now
occupies and manages the old estate. She is thoroughly familiar and
appreciative of the pioneer life through which her famil^y has passed
in Madison county, and is one of the highly esteemed descendants of the
pioneers in this county.
B. Pekry Remy and Frank I. Remy. The subjects of this sketch
are both of Hoosier birth, B. Perry Remy having been born at Columbus,
Ind., March 15th, 1876, and Frank Irwin Remy being born at Columbus,
Ind., September 6th, 1880. They spent several years of their boyhood
in Kansas, later returning to Indiana. Both secured a High School edu-
cation. B. Perry Remy married Margaret Wood, the daughter of Albert
C, and Eva Haynes Wood of near Pendleton, Ind., November 20th, 1902.
Frank I. Remy married Nellie G. Forkner, the daughter of John L. and
Mary Watson Forkner of Anderson, Ind., August 5th, 1907. Both B.
Perry and Frank Remy are members of Masonic order being identified
with Scottish Rite and Knight Templar orders of Masonry, as well as
the order of Mystic Shrine. They are members of the Anderson Town
and Country Clubs, the Columbia Club of Indianapolis, hunting clubs,
engineering and business clubs.
The brothers have an interesting family history as well as a startlingly
successful business career. The name Remy is French, the family being
descendants of a Frenchman of noble birth by that name. In the family
historj' prepared by the French College of Heraldry it is found that the
family has been an active one. Many inventions of note and success
particularly having followed the name. Their originality seems to date
from the earliest history of the family when they very early withdrew
from the Catholic Church, later coming to America as Huguenots. Ben-
jamin Milton Remy, the father of Perry and Frank Remy, was born
April 30th, 1839, at Brookville. Ind. He was educated at Brookville
College. He early joined the Knights of Pythias and M. E. Church and
was a faithful member of both throughout his lifetime. Politically he
was a Republican. He was a merchant in early life, but ill health caused
his retirement, when but a comparatively young man and he was never
able later to stand business strains and cares. He died at Anderson,
Ind., May 24th, 1913. Marion I. Irwin Remy, the mother of Perry and
Frank Remy, is of Scotch and English descent and is a descendant of
the Irwins of Scotland and more directly of Joseph Irwin, who came
to America from Ireland and lived and died near Columbus, Ind. She
is also a descendant of David Jones and wife, who came from England
with Wm. Penn in the Mayflower. The history of this branch of the
family seems to indicate that ambition and thrift were at least very
prominent characteristics as great wealth has been accumulated from
time to time and honest, straightforward dealings and philanthropy
have kept pace with the ability to accumulate the world's treasures.
The peculiar Scotch firmness and determination certainly found its way
to the mother of Perry and Frank Remy of Anderson, for when ill
health compelled her husband to retire from business, when the boys
were quite young and expenses incident to ill health soon ate away
HISTORY OF MADISON COUNTY 791
what money had been saved, she did not lose hope but kept on instilling
the ambition for honest success that had been the parents' earliest dreams.
The boys worked ia factories prior to coming to Anderson, educating
themselves at night school when unable to do better, but in 1895 with
little more than ear fare to bring them the family came to Anderson, the
father still enfeebled, but the boys possessed with ambition and a will.
B. Perry Remy had worked unceasingly where and when he could in
trying to master a knowledge of electrical work and his knowledge had
been recognized before the move was made, so with his brother as a
helper they put out a shingle and started an electrical contracting busi-
ness in Anderson in 1895, one boy nineteen and the other fourteen years
of age. They were successful from the start and soon the younger
brother Frank was in school, while the older brother kept hard at work,
that later they might botli be better fitted to do bigger things, as they
continually looked forward to doing. In 1901 the Remy Brothers incor-
porated their business under the name of Remy Electric Company and
started the manufacture of the electrical equipment for gas and gasoline
engines, which they felt had greater possibilities for growth and future
than the contracting business could possibly have. In just ten years
time the business was one of the largest in Anderson and one of the most
modern manufacturing industries in the Central States. Manufacturers
from all over the United States came to visit the plant and learn of its
methods. Perry by practical work had developed his mind, naturally of
a scientific turn, until he was recognized as an engineer of unusual abil-
ity, not infrecjuently meeting with engineers and physicists in public dis-
cussions of engineering problems of the day, while Frank, who from
■early boyhood had loved to trade and bargain above, everything else, had
fitted the opportunity equallj' as well and developed and handled the
business side of the brothers' interests with unusual judgment and ability.
It should be mentioned that never had two brothers, although of a
■different temperament and inclination, worked more harmoniously and
with each others interests at heart more than these two. Eaidy recogniz-
ing the particular work for which they were best suited they tried ta
develop themselves accordingly as they progressed never having their
ambition satisfied or apparently realizing that they had built up a big
industry giving employment to hundreds in a few years time.
January 25th, 1911. they sold the controlling stock in the Remy
Electric Company to an Indianapolis banker and his associates and retired
from the active management of the business. With their wives they then
set out to travel. Perry and his wife going around the world, while
Frank and his wife spent six months in traveling through European
countries and some time traveling in America. While they were enjoy-
ing these pleasures they were not unmindful of what might be learned
from European manufacturers and they met with many of them. While
their trips were supposedly for pleasure it is a significant fact that patent
applications were being made by them while abroad and shortly after
their return they were starting in business again.
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