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NYPL RESEARCH LIBRARIES
3 3433 08
92079 9
TN
PAST AND PRESENT
OF
LUCAS AND WAYNE
COUNTIES
IOWA
A Record of Settlement, Organization, Progress and
Achievement
THEODORE M. STUART
ILLUSTRATED
VOLUME I
CHICAGO
THE S. T. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY
1913
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LUCAS COUNTY
Page
Organizatiox of CorxTY 10
Physical Characteristics 11
Municipal Diyisjons 13
The Record 15
Courthouse 16
Statement of Pioneers 24
The Mormons 27
The Indians 30
City of Chariton 34
Other Towns 45
RussEij. 45
Derby 46
Lucas 47
Orders and Societies 47
Churches of Chariton 51
Early Couris ,. . • 58
Lucas County Historical Society 64
First Settler in County 67
First Trial Jury 70
First 72
Official Salaries 77
WiLLiAiNi McDer.aiit 77
Land Agents 84
Street Railway 85
Political Ri:cord 86
War Record 87
Intoxicating Liqttors 107
Schools 110
Free Public Library 114
Banks of Lucas County 116
Women's Clubs 119
Chariton Fire Company 123
7
8 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Newspapers 124
Criminal History of County 131
Water Works and Electric Light 138
County Poor Farm 140
Weather Reports 149
Agriculture 151
Railroads 156
Coal 158
Retrospecti\'e Viet\^ 167
WAYNE COUNTY
Early History 173
Claim Society 175
Game, Etc 176
Organization of County 179
First Court 184
Courthouse 184
Boundary Line Controversy 189
War Record 190
Captain William M. Little's Letters 202
Courts of Wayne County 268
Lynch Law 272
Criminal Records 274
Women 's Clubs 279
Intoxicating LiQiroRS 283
Towns of Wayne County 288
Seyiniour 288
CORYDON . 292
Allerton 298
LiNFVILLE 302
Other Towns 304
HuMESTON Schools 304
Townships 305
Area of County 306
Churches 307
Political Index 312
The Press 316
Corydon's Fiftieth Anntversary 321
.THE A-Ew YOP^K
■BLIC IIP
THEODOEE M. STUAET
History of Lucas County
It is natural that we become attached to the land of our
nativity, the scenes of our childhood, the birthplace of our
early hopes and aspirations, and the battle ground of life's
joys and sorrows.
We come to love its mountains and its plains, its rocks
and its rivers, its forests and its j^rairies, and all the sur-
roundings of the spot of earth that we have learned to call
our home, have charms for us that time cannot efface.
The poet has thus beautifully expressed this truth:
"We view in each crag,
A friend's familiar face,
And clasp the mountain,
In our mind's embrace."
It is this attachment for our homes which creates the
demand for history, especially the history of counties, or other
localities.
We desire to ascertain all that we can about this particular
locality and the people who formerly occupied it as their home.
What kind of people were they? How, or in what manner
did they walk, talk, eat and dress? AYhat were their ideas,
and what did they do in the way of improving and develop-
ing this home ?
We start out in search of this information, but at the very
threshold of this inquiry we are met bv the sad fact that but
a very few of the pioneers who sought homes in this county
are now living, and hence the answers to many of the questions
we would propound to them are buried in the graves of early
settlers.
Vol. I— 1
10 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
THE ORGANIZATION OF LUCAS COUNTY
Lucas county was organized in the year 1838. It was
named in honor of Governor Lucas, the first territorial gov-
ernor of Iowa. He had twice been governor of the state of
Ohio. On June 12, 1838, Congress passed an act seperating
that part of the then territory to Wisconsin, lying West of
and President Van Buren appointed Mr. Lucas as its organic
governor. His term began July 4, 1838, the da}^ the organic
act took effect, and the date from which Iowa dates its polit-
ical existence as an organized territory. Robert Lucas held
the office of the territorial governor for three years, or until
the close of the Van Buren administration in 1841, when he
was succeeded by John Chambers, a whig, appointed by Pres-
ident Harrison.
Governor Lucas first resided at Burlington, the temporary
seat of government, and the then prospective capitol of the
proposed state of Iowa, where he acquired a home, but in
1844 the capitol was removed to Iowa Cit}^ to where Ex-
Governor Lucas removed and died at an advanced age.
He was regarded as a man of rugged honesty, and strict
integrity, and he seems to have discharged the duties of
his position in a manner entirely satisfactory to the people
of the new territorv. He was a consistent Christian, whose
life work harmonized with his profession. He died at his
home in Iowa Cit}^ at a ripe old age, and a marble monument
marks the spot where he was buried in the City Cemetery of
Iowa Citv. At the time of his death he, with his familv, his
wife, two sons, and three daughters, were living on his farm
adjoining Iowa City.
Lucas county has an area of 276,480 acres. It lies within
the Sac and Fox Indian purchase, by the treaties of 1837 and
1842, which included all of the land in the territory west of
the "Black Hawk Purchase" of 1832, west of the Iowa river.
Before the separate organization of Lucas county, the terri-
tory therein, was, by an act of the Legislature of date January
19, 1846, attached to the county of Kishke-Kosh (afterwards
changed to Monroe county) for election, revenue and judicial
purposes, but by an act of the Legislature of date the 13th
day of January, 1846, the county of Lucas was organized and
the boundry lines thereof were described as follows : "Begin-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 11
iiing at the northwest eoinev of Kishke-Kosh county ; thence
west to the northwest corner of township 73, north of range
24 west ; thence south to the southwest corner of townshix:> 71
north, range 24 west; thence east to the southwest corner of
Kishke-Kosh county ; thence north to the place of beginning ;
and by this act Lucas county assumed its civic relations to the
state, in its wild and natural condition.
The county consists of twelve congressional townships,
each being six miles square, commencing at the northwest cor-
ner of the county and thence running six miles east, thence
six miles west ; and so on ; said townships being named as fol-
lows : Otter Creek, Liberty, English, Pleasant, Cedar, Chari-
ton, Whitebreast, Jackson, Union, Warren, Benton, and
Washington.
THE PHYSICAL CHARACTER OF ITS SURFACE
The land of Lucas county consists of rolling prairie,
drained bv numerous small streams, which carrv the rainfall
either into the Mississippi or Missouri rivers. The rain which
falls on the east half of the public square in the city of Chari-
ton, the countv seat of Lucas countv, flows into the Missis-
sippi river, while that which falls on the w^st side of the
square flows into the Missouri river. The i)rairie as it
approaches the streams is very rough and broken, there being
very little marshy lands. The best lands for agricultural
purposes are located on the high and level plateau or divides,
a few miles from the streams. The valleys, along the streams
are small, very rich and productive, but, as a rule, they are
quite narrow and subject to overflow, rendering the cultiva-
tion and harvesting of crops thereon very uncertain.
Of course the principal crops have always been corn, oats
and hay, but the large crop of wheat produced this year (1912)
places this county, and in fact most of Iowa, within the list
of wheat lands.
Early settlers inform us that in the early days of Lucas
county, large crops of wheat were grown and harvested about
every year, but it is a fact, that in and during the years inter-
vening between 1870 and 1910, the wheat crop was very small
in this county. In fact, as a general rule, farmers did not
attempt to raise it, the crop ranging from ten to fifteen bushels
to the acre. Various reasons were assigned for this change in
12 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
the wheat crop. It was claimed by some farmers that some
element or property in the soil necessary to the production
of wheat, had for some unknown reason changed or disap-
peared, but, however this may be, the recent large wheat crops
have had the effect of placing Lucas county again in the wheat
belt, which will materially add to the cash products of the
county.
TIMOTHY SEED
Southern Iowa, especially the middle portion thereof, has
long been noted for its large crops of timoth}- seed, and it
is claimed, and the claim seems to be well verified, that Lucas
county is entitled to the credit of placing on the market more
bushels of timothy seed in one year than any other county in
the United States, and when farmers found out that the ha}',
after the seed had been taken therefrom, was still valuable
as rough feed for horses and cattle, very little unthreshed
timothy was kept on the farm. Timothy seed sold in the Lucas
county market last j^ear (1911) for as high as $5 per bushel,
and yielded from three to five bushels per acre.
BLUE GRASS
In late years machines for gathering this valuable seed
have been invented and placed on the market, and it has devel-
oped that as the wild prairie grass and timothy disappear
from the fields from excessive pasturing, a coating of natural
blue grass appears. It is claimed by some farmers that a field
of blue grass which has been protected and preserved during
the months of July, August and September, will form a winter
pasture that is worth at least one-half as much as a good corn
crop on the same lands. It has been ascertained that in the
growth of blue grass, southern Iowa land, if it does not exceed
the famous blue grass region of Kentucky, is fully as good.
Lucas county is located in the center of this blue grass region
in southern Iowa. What is known as the "Blue Grass Road,"
extending from some point in Lee county, near Fort Madison,
to Council Bluffs, passes through the center of this county.
This road follows in a general direction what is known as
the "Mormon Trail" or Monnon Trace road. It follows the
prairie divides, thereby avoiding the necessity of building
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 13
bridges over the streams. It leaves the city of Chariton at
the southwest corner of the public square.
EIVERS AND CREEKS
The streams and water courses of Lucas county are neither
beautiful nor beneficial to any great extent. They are small
muddy streams, crawling along from three to five feet below
the surface of the ground at their l)anks, and most of them
are subject to overfiow. Unlike the streams of the northern
part of this state, they do not present sandy or gravelly
beaches, except in a few instances.
The conflicts between congressional grants of swamp lands
to counties and railroads, ended in much litigation between
these parties. During the sixties there was a continual con-
troversy between these parties as to the priority of their
claims under such grants. The counties having the right to
sell and convey their interests and title to swamp lands under
this grant, did, in some cases sell and convey such interest*
and rights to individuals and companies, and the result was,
that protracted litigation grew out of the same. It seems that
the officers of the Government land office decided that they
would receive evidence of the character of these lands in con-
troversy in the shape of ex parte affidavits, and it ^ was
claimed that in this manner some of the most valuable lands
were held to be swamj^ lands Avithin the meaning of the con-
gressional grant. It was said by some wag during this con-
troversy, that, "a good swamp land affidivit" as they were
called, ''was a legal tender for any debt, public or private."
However, Lucas county did not suffer much in this contro-
versy. In fact there was very little swamp land in the county,
and although the county sold its remaining interests therein
to an individual, yet there was no litigation attending said
sale.
MUNICIPAL DIVISIONS
From the dawn of civilization nations have followed the
plan of dividing their territories into states, counties, parishes
or districts, and finally into townships and towns, giving to
each division certain limited municipal rights and powers for
the government thereof and the protection of the citizens
14 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
therein. The official authorities or government of a county
are generally called county commissioners or county super-
visors. The svstem of countv commissioners has been con-
tinned and improved upon in the United States, and is today
more perfect in its workings than it has ever been before.
As heretofore noted the first act in the organization of
Lucas county was that of the last territorial Legislature of
Iowa, wherein it passed the act of January 13, 1846, to estab-
lish a new coimty, which would be called Lucas, and defining
the boundries thereof. Lender the act of the second assembly
of the state of Iowa, entitled, "An Act to Organize Lucas
County, Approved, January 15, 1819," and supplemented to
that of 1816, defining the boundaries of the county, the first
section provides, "that the county of Lucas be, and is hereby
organized from and after the fourth day of July, 1849." This
provision was made to place the civic machinery in operation.
First, by the appointment of three county commissioners to
locate the county seat. These commissioners were, Wareham
O. Clark, of Monroe county ; Pardan M. Dodge, of Appanoose
county; and Richard Fisher, of Wapello county; who pro-
ceeded to perform the duties assigned them. There was much
interest shown by the early settlers then on the ground as to
the precise location of the seat of the new county, and several
were looking for pecuniary advantages. John McMains, a
single man, came West to find his fortune and grow up with
the country. With this view he purchased eighty acres on
the southern limits of Chariton, in the expectation that he
would secure the county seat thereon. In this he failed but he
came so near that the present town extends over and includes
his tract of land. He was the first sheriff of Lucas county,
being chosen at the election held in August, 1819. After his offi-
cial days ended and his speculative prospects seemed to have
waned, he pushed on to the more distant West, in Colorado.
Another man who was similarly inspired by the county seat
mania was William S. Townsend, called "Buck" Townsend.
He became conspicuous in the county's history. He made a
claim in the year 1848 which was then and still is somewhat
historical. He located a claim covering the lands upon which
several Mormon families had settled and built cabins in the
year 1846 on their way to Salt Lake. He procured and sent
to the state Legislature, a petition, iDurporting to have been
signed by many persons, showing the great advantages of
PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
15
his tract of land as a location for the county seat. This peti-
tion proved to be bogus and it did not secure the county seat.
Mr. Townsend's house for many months served the purpose
of an inn and was the headquarters of the county officials.
In July, 1849, notices were issued and posted of the first elec-
tion to be held on the 6th day of August, 1849, at the house of
Wm. McDermit. The countv officers thus elected were : Three
countv commissioners, a clerk of the district court, a clerk of
the board of county commissioners, a sherilf , a recorder and
treasurer, a county surveyor, and two justices of the peace.
There were twenty-five votes cast at this election, the follow-
ing being the names of the voters at this, the first election
ever held in Lucas countv. To wit :
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
William S. Townsend 14.
James Roland. 15.
Philip G. Dunn. 16.
Beresford Robinson. 17.
Nelson Lowder. 18.
AV'iiliam McDermit. 19.
William T. May. 20.
X. E. West. 21.
Loyd Jenkins. 22.
Elizah Baldwin. 23.
Samuel A. Francis. 24.
John Yergey. 25.
James M. Mercer.
Samuel McKinley,
James G. Robinson.
John Ballard.
Thomas Wilson.
Peter Phillips.
James Peck.
Andrew J. Allen.
John McMaines.
John Mercer.
Joseph W. Allen.
Milton Lowder.
E. K. Robinson.
THE RECORD
The first session of the board of county commissioners was
held at the house of Wm. S. Townsend on the 10th day of
August, 1849. All the members of the board, viz., Wm. T. May,
Jacob Phillips and James G. Robinson, being present. They
made numerous orders necessary to put the civic machinery
of the county in operation, among which was an order that
H. B. Notson, an attorney of Albia, Iowa, be paid the sum of
$18 for services rendered in the organization of the county,
that Wm. H. Moore procure assessment rolls from the clerk
of the board of commissioners of Monroe county, and that
Mr. Moore also procure suitable blank books to keep the
county records in.
At a meetino; of the commissioners held on the 11th dav of
16 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
September, 1849, the board ordered that the county be organ-
ized as one election district, and thus it was that the first elec-
tion district was established in January, 1850. The county
officers elected at the prior election, and holding office until
the 6th day of August, 1850, were duly installed. The board
of commissioners being charged with the general management
of the affairs of the county came to realize that the future
prosperity of the county depended largely upon their wisdom
and economy in the discharge of their duties. The idea of
personal gain does not seem to have entered into the minds of
these honest men. The modern schemes of graft never
occurred to them, and they faithfully performed their duties,
for the best interest of the county.
As vet thev had not secured the title to the land thev had
selected as the location of the county seat town. At their
meeting in February, 1850, they made provision for the pur-
chase of this land by directing Commissioner Robinson to
enter the same. In pursuance of the order of the board, Mr.
Robinson purchased from one John Jappert, a military land
warrant, with which he entered said land in his own name,
and then he promptly conveyed the same to Lucas county.
This 160 acres of land cost the county $200, or $1.25 per acre.
THE FIRST COURTHOUSE BUILT IN THE COUNTY
At the regular session of the board of county commission-
ers in April, 1850, the following proceedings in reference to
the building of a courthouse w^as adopted and entered of
record, to Avit :
Ordered, ''That the board receive through its clerks, at
the next session thereof, sealed proposals for building a court-
house in the town of Chariton, Lucas county, of the following
dimensions to-wit: Said house to be constructed of good
solid oak logs, hewed so as to face from eight to twelve inches ;
said house to be eighteen feet in width and twenty-two feet
in length, and to be one story and a half high, the lower story
to be eight and one-half feet in the clear, the upper half-story
to be five feet to the top of the plates ; said house to have good
oak sleepers and joists sufficiently strong to make a good
solid floor, to be laid with good lumber, jointed and laid down
in a workmanlike manner ; the roof of said house to be con-
structed of rafters of suitable size, and to be covered with
joint shingles to be made of oak or walnut, laid five and one-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 17
half inches to the weather, said shingles to be eight to ten
inches in length; the spaces between the logs of said house
to be pointed with lime and sand; said house to have one door
and shutter in front part of the lower story near the middle
of said building, and also three twelve light Avindows, one in
each side and one in the back end of said liouse, also one
door and shutter in ujjper story of said ho\ise in connec-
tion with a flight of stairs and platform to run up on
the front end of this house; also one door and shutter
in the upper story of said house in connection with a
flight of stairs and platform to run up on the front end of first
story of said building; and also one twelve-light window in
each end of said house in the upper story ; and also a partition
to run through the center of the uj)per story, to be made of
planks, with a door and shutter in the center of said partition ;
said platform in front of the upper door to be six feet square,
with railing around it two and one-half feet high ; the gables of
said house to be weather-boarded up with suitable lumber;
the door of said house to be made of seasoned walnut lumber,
matched together, and hung on hinges, and suitable locks to
be put in said house filled with suitable sash and glass, all
of which is to be done in workmanlike manner. Said house
is to be located on lot number six in block niunber nine in said
town. Said house to be completed on or before the first Mon-
day in October, A. D. 1850. And it is further ordered, that the
board of commissioners, of said county, pay for the building
of said house out of the town lot fund."
At the following session of the board of commissioners.
May 15, 1850, sealed bids were submitted, and that of Beverly
Searcy being the lowest and best, he was awarded the con-
tract for building the first courthouse in compliance with the
foregoing specifications, for which he was to receive the sum
of $374. The work of construction progressed as rapidly as
the material and means at hand at this advanced frontier
point admitted.
In addition to the specifications already given, there was
a plan of the building drawn in perspective by J. J. Jacob?,
of Decatur county, giving a front view of this pioneer temple
of justice. It, with many other scraps of early records, was
found in the "abandoned archives" of the former court-
18 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
house garret, where the dust and stains of more than thirty
years have given it a somewhat ancient appearance.
It is remembered by none now living, wlio were active in
the early organization of the county. It will be a greater curi-
osity to coming generations, than now, and should be pre-
served.
The day approached for completion of this important
structure, and all eyes were eager to see its door thrown open
for public occupancy on the day named in the bond. But the
materials and appliances for such a structure had mainly to
be hewed from the forest — all was primitive. There were no
mills to cut the lumber, no railroads to transport it, not even
wagon roads, except a trail to Albia, where the few pioneers
of the county, who were here prior to the organizing election
of August 6, 1849, had to go to cast their votes and pay their
taxes, or to Brobst's mill on the North Cedar, some thirty
miles northeast, where they had to take their corn to be ground
for their bread, and for wheat flour as a luxury. They would
take turns, and one of their number would go over the prairie
to Warsaw, on the east bank of the Mississippi river, and get
a load for such as sent, with a balance to sell to others, and
thus pay the expenses of the trip.
Through the delays thus incident to pioneer life, Mr.
Searcv, the contractor, asked for an extension of twentv davs
beyond his contract period, in which to complete this edifice
of justice, which time was granted. So that at the session of
the board of commissioners of October 23, 1850, it was sub-
stantially finished, as required by the contract, and accepted
by the board, as shown by the following action.
Ordered, "By the board of county commissioners, that
they receive the courthouse in the town of Chariton, of Beverly
Searcy, by said Searcy knocking off $15 from the original
price. The amount due Beverly Searcy to be issued in twenty
different orders. ' '
Thus it will be seen that Lucas county was no longer home-
less for her officials, and the holder of the scales of justice.
Up to this time the various count}' officers had mainly car-
ried their offices in their hats, as was done by some of the state
officials at a very early day in its history.
Some time seems to have passed before the courthouse
was furnished. As the order of the board of commissioners,
made in July. 1851 session, pro\iding for the equipments of
LUCAS COUNTY COUETHOUSE, CHARITON
PUBLIC LIBRARY, CHARITON
' NEW YOKK
.IC LIBRARY
ONS
J
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 21
the courtroom, is of itself something of a curiosity as well as
the character of such equipments we give it as it ai3pears on
record :
'•ORDERED, "By said board, that they let the contract
uf furnishing 16 benches, GVi feet long, made of good hewn
lin, with good substantial oak legs; also the contract for
erecting a good substantial ''puplit" in the court house, in
the town of Chaiiton, of a cheap dimentions; also the con-
tract of bracing up the upper floor of the court house, in the
town of Chariton, to be braced as follows, to wit: A hewn
peace, 8 inches square, and set 2 posts under the same, the
peace to extend, across three joists, the lower sleepers to be
braced with good pillars or blocks."
•'Ordered, "That the contract for job of furnishing benches
and "pulpit" and bracing up the up]3er floor, to be sold out at
public auction on Saturday next, the lowest bidder to be the
undertaker, the undertaker to be paid out of the town fund
as soon as the work is completeed according to contract."
This ci\dc record indicated that those wdio pushed on to
the front in the early days of this section of the country, were
men of sturdy Avills, and of practical ideas of the great work
they had commenced, in organizing and developing a sub-
division of the great state that was to be, though they were
unskilled and unpracticed in the clerical part of their work
in committing their ideas of record in language and style
challenging criticism.
As already noted, there being no election returns recorded
prior to those of April, 1852, the only facts and information
relating to those of 1849, 1850 and 1851 are only such as we
have been able to gather from the "abandoned archives"
heretofore referred to; and from the loose and incomplete
entries found in the records of the board of court commis-
sioners from its organization, August 10, 1849, up to the adop-
tion of the county judge system, July 1, 1851.
The return of the first election, August 6, 1849, has already
been given. However, there appears to be no return of the
election of a judge of probate, provided by law at that elec-
tion. He must therefore have been appointed or elected at the
general election of 1850, because the first probate record con-
sisted of a quire of foolscap paper sewed together, shows that
Allan Edwards filled the position on the date of the first
entry, October 7, 1850. and continued therein until his office
22 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
was merged into that of the county court, July 1, 1851, the
last entry in this record heing June 2, 1851.
A PUBLIC AVELL
At the session of the commissioners in June, 1851, it was
ordered "that there he dug in the town of Chariton, at some
place to he picked out by the commissioners, and said com-
missioners agree to donate $15, to be used for the construc-
tion of said well, the same to be done in a workmanlike man-
ner." J. M. B. Miller was awarded the contract to dig said
well. At the following July session, the time for the digging
of said well was postponed until August, by the board.
THE SECOND COURTHOUSE
As we have seen the pioneers of this county expended only
about $371 for the building of the first courthouse, but the
county was not so fortunate in building the second one.
There is no county record showing what it cost to build
this second courthouse. It was built of brick and was about
fifty feet square, and must have cost from fifteen to twenty
thousand dollars. In a large package of papers that were
found in boxes in the belfri^ of said courthouse, there were
scraps of papers relating to said building, but nothing from
which the cost thereof can be ascertained with any degree of
certainty. There was found in this package of papers a writ-
ten offer of one George Switzer to furnish all materials and
build and complete this second courthouse for the sum of
$13,500. There was no further statement found relative to
this offer but we know that it was not built bv Switzer, but
by W. T. Wade. Owing to the loose manner in which this
building was constructed, quite a number of the citizens, in
view of the fact that it must have cost the county a large sum
of money, got the impression that some person had cheated
the countv out of considerable monev in the building of said
house. But after examining all of the facts that can be
gathered relative thereto, we do not find any evidence sustain-
ing such supposition. Of course this building cost more than
it was estimated at, but there is nothing strange about this
as there does not seem to have been any definite contract in
relation to a great manj^ expenditures. The house vvas built
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 23
under the supervision of the county judge, Ethen Guard.
Mr. Guard was an honest man, but was impracticable, and
he seems to have supervised the entire work from day to day.
In the first place, and under his direction, the foundation for
the structure was made of logs. This was something new in
architecture, but Judge Guard was a theorist and he had
some theory in support of his claim that a foundation of logs
placed in the earth at a certain depth and in a cei'tain man-
ner would constitute the best kind of a f<nmdati()n for any
kind of a building. He was a lawyer and his answer to cer-
tain questions on his application for admission to the bar
will indicate his knowledge of the law. The class was asked
the question, ^'What is the best evidence of the terms of a
contract : the written contract signed by the parties ? Or the
evidence of some creditable persons who overheard the con-
tract made r' There was a difference of opinion among the
applicants as to which was the correct answer to this ques-
tion, but Judge Guard concluded that the most satisfactoi'y
evidence would be tliat of persons who had overheard the
contract, in preference to the written evidence. Now for
such a man to undertake to build a courthouse without plans
or specifications, we can readily see and understand how he
would leave things in such shape as to leave the impression
that some one had taken some of the county's money, but
there is nothing in the character or liistory of Ethen Guard
that would lead any one to believe that he ever received one
cent of the county's money more than his small pay.
After the expiration of about ten years after said court-
house was finished, cracks began to a^Dpear in the walls
thereof, in such numbers and to such extent as to cause mam^
to believe that tlie building would collapse. At one term of
court the dangerous condition of the building was made known
to the court, and he ordered the sheriff to secure another
building in which to hold court. The sheriff rented a church,
and after that time chui'ches were used for the holding of
court. But as the building did not fall it was thought there
was no danger in its falling, and court was held in it again
for several years and mitil it was torn down.
THE PEESEXT OR THIRD COURTHOUSE
In the year 1885, the people of Lucas county at an election
called for that purpose, authorized the building of a new
24 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
courthouse. The contract was let to local contractors, viz.,
(I. J. Stewart & Co., lumber dealers, who faithfully followed
the plans and specifications therefor, prepared by an architect
of Des ^loines, Iowa, and the result is, that the county has
secured a substantial, comfortable and even elegant building
for a very reasonable price. It is amply sufficient for court
purposes, and large, well-equipped rooms are provided therein
for the county officers. This all goes to show that by obtain-
ing proper plans and using care in the letting of contracts
for public buildings, municipalities can obtain good buildings
at a reasonable price.
STATEMENT OF PIONEERS
A brief statement of the experiences and sacrifices of the
first men and women who undertook to make their homes in
this county, would be read with interest by the present inhab-
itants, and we will here insert a few brief statements of the
oldest living inhabitants of this coimty.
Mrs. Susanna Custer, of (Chariton, thus I'elates her experi-
ence as one of the pioneers of Lucas county.
She savs: ''I am eightv-five vears of age. I was born
in Fairfax countv in the state of Virginia. Mv maiden name
was Susanna Millen. I was married in the year 1847, at Lan-
caster, Missouri, to James B. Custer. My husband, in the year
1846, had traveled over this countrv as a member of a sur-
veying party in the employ of the Government, and had in
this way formed a very favorable opinion of this country,
and soon after our marriage we concluded to make our home
in or near tliis locality. In the fall of the year 1848 we came
here from Lancaster, Missouri, with the expectation of mak-
ing this locality our future home. We had good horses and
wagons, and with the exception of suffering from the want of
good drinking water, the trip was not unpleasant. There
were no roads in the country, so we were compelled to follow
the i^rairie divides in order to avoid the crossing of streams.
We would travel for miles without water, except such as we
could get from pools or small depressions in the prairies, and
in numerous instances we would have to strain this water
before attempting to use it, on account of the wiggle-tails that
had collected therein. I well recollect that one evening as we
were approaching a point or improvement which we after-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 25
wards kuew as 'Zura West's Ranch' near the line which has
since heen known as the county line between Lucas and Mon-
roe counties, we were attracted by what appeared to be a long
pole or tree. We could see it for several miles, but no one
of our party could guess just Avhat it was. After numerous
suggestions as to what was the object or purpose of this
pole, I remember someone innocently suggested that it might
be the North Pole. However, it developed to be the location
of a well and the pole was used in drawing water from the
well, after the Egyptian style.
"We followed the general prairie divide which extends
from the southeast corner of the state in a westerly direction
to Council Bluffs, Iowa. In the year 1845, the Mormons hav-
ing been driven from their home at Nauvoo, Illinois, had fol-
lowed this same divide through the state of Iowa, and evi-
dences of their route still appeared at different points and
places along the trail. We learned that a few Mormon fami-
lies had stopped for one winter at a point near the Chariton
river, about one and one-half miles southeast of Chariton,
which was afterwards called Chariton Point.
"The prairies were covered with a thick coating of grass.
Ever}^where it was several feet tall. I remember that at the
point which afterwards became the public square in the town
of Chariton, the grass was very thick and about five feet tall.
"We continued ovir journey in a northw^ard direction until
we reached the point which afterwards became know^n as the
E. R. Gibbon farm or ranch, about tw^elve miles north of
Chariton, where we expected to make our future home.
"There was no person living at or near the point at which
Chariton was afterwards located, at this time. In fact there
were very few people in the county. Soon after we came, we
would hear of people locating at different points in this local-
itv. While there were a few horses in the countv, oxen
were in common use as substitutes therefor. About the year
1850, w^e learned that the county seat town had been located
and named Chariton. We then expected that a thriving tow^n
would soon appear, but in this we were disappointed. The
building up of the town was very slow. The settlers generally
seemed to prefer the acquisition of farms rather than town
lots, and hence, very few of them purchased lots in the new
town. Jonas Wescoat and his brother built the first houses
in the new town of Chariton. Thev built two loo- cabins o"-!
26 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
the northwest corner of the public square, being on the lot
now occupied by Jay Smyth's bank building. Both of the
bi others had families, and they all lived in one of the cabins,
and kept a small store or stock of dry goods in the other.
Beverly Searcy afterwards built a cabin on the southwest
corner of the public square, being the place where Oscar
Isreal's store is now located. Afterwards other cabins ap-
peared in the new town of Chariton, and the county author-
ities secured the building of a log courthouse on the east side
of the public square. This house was used for many pur-
]30ses. I remember that at one time we came to Chariton in
a wagon drawn by oxen to attend church, which was held in
the courthouse. The minister was a traveling Methodist
preacher. At the close of the services, which were on a Sab-
bath day, Beverly Searc}^ or Bev Searcy, as he was commonly
known, announced to the congregation that there would be
a dance in that house that night, and he urged all present to
attend the dance. Simeon Chapman of Union township usu-
ally furnished the music for the dances with his violin.
"Roving bands of Indians and wolves were frequently
seen along the streams and in the timber. The Indians were
great beggars, but further than this, they did not annoy us.
I do not. remember any attempt on their part to do us an}'
harm. AVhile we were deprived of the luxuries of life, and
some times of the necessities, the constant changes that were
taking place in the country every day and the general disposi-
tion of the people to aid and assist each other, rendered our
wild homes and lives atti'active and pleasant in many ways."
Mrs. J. A. J. Bently thus relates her experience in this new
country :
"I am eighty- four years of age. My maiden name was
Anna Scott. I was born in Jackson county, Indiana. In 1849
I came to Fairfield, Iowa, with my mother and stepfather,
John Howard. After staying at Fairfield for some time we
came to Lucas county. We first settled on what has since
been known as Badger's farm, a short distance southeast of
Chariton. My stepfather purchased this place of a Mr. Town-
send, who was commonly known as 'Buck' Townsend. There
were no houses in Chariton at that time. Some one was build-
ing a house on the place where Colonel Bartholomew now
lives, in the southeast part of Chariton. They were putting
a roof on this house when I first came here. Log cabin houses
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 27
soon began to appear at different places near where Charit(»n
was afterward located. Ox teams were generally used as a
substitute for horses. We attended church in a small cooper
shop which was built in Chariton. The Rev. Zura West was
the minister. The seats consisted of boxes and temporary
seats made with boards. At one time I fomid a seat on what
was called a shaving horse. Mr. West was a Methodist
preacher and he was regarded as a good man. I was married
to J. A. J. Bently, a blacksmith, in 1857. My brother, Aaron
Scott, came to the county in 1849. We did most of our trad-
ing at Eddyville, Iowa, for several j^ears. My brother, Levi
Howard, made the first brick ever made in this county, on the
Badeer farm. Mv mother died on the 12th dav of October,
1850, and she was buried in a cemetery on the ground, since
occupied by what is called the South school building in Chaii-
ton. Several bodies were interred in this cemetery, but when
the town spread over the grounds on all sides of this location,
thev were removed to other cemeteries."
THE MORMONS
The Mormons were the first white settlers in Lucas county.
About the vear 1816 thev, having been driven from their
homes at Nauvoo, Illinois, by mobs, passed through Lucas
county on their way westward to Salt Lake. They followed
the prairie divide from a point near the southeast corner of
the state of Iowa to, or near Council Bluff's, Iowa, and evi-
dences of their route were ijlainly marked at different points
and places. It seems that a few families of Mormons stopped
for at least one winter at a place called Chariton Point, about
one and one-half miles southeast of the town of Chariton,
and the route they took through the county has since been
known as the Mormon Trace road. While some of the doc-'
trines and teachings of these people were wholly indefensible,
vet the industrv, economv and sacrifices made bv them, in
finding and establishing a new home in the then wild west,
are worthy of our admiration, and represent them as being
better citizens than those who composed the mol) that took
the law into their own hands and drove them from their
homes. There is one incident connected with their flight
from oppression that is not only pathetic, but it goes far in
representing their patriotism and their disposition to abide
v.il. 1—2
28 PAST AND PREJSENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
by the laws of their country. In their flight from Nauvoo,
when they reached the border of what was then called the
American desert, they were met by a recruiting officer of the
United States army, who insisted they should furnish their
full quota of soldiers for the Mexican war. Without a mur-
mur they selected a number of their young men, the bone and
sinew of their colony, and sent them to defend the flag, under
which the}^ had in vain sought protection. ^Nlany years ago
the founder of this sect, Joseph Smith, a native of Wayne
county. New York, located on the eastern bank of the Missis-
sippi river, in Hancock county, state of Illinois and built up
a town v/hich thev called Nauvoo. Here tliev built a i^rand
and imposing temple of worship. They became unpopular,
and taking advantage of such unpopularity, a class of
"roughs" undertook to drive them out of the country. They
captured Joseph Smith and incarcerated him in jail at Carth-
age, Illinois. In July, 1841, the jail was attacked by a mob
and Smith was nuirdered, when in the act of escaping from
a window he was shot and riddled with bullets.
In 1845 an attack was made upon the town of Nauvoo and
the Mormons then determined to leave Nauvoo and find a
new home in the wild west.
In September, 1846, the last lingering Mormons at Nauvoo,
Illinois, where they had built a splendid temple, were driven
away at the point of the bayonet by 1,600 troops. In Febru-
ary, ]3receding, some sixteen hundred men. women and chil-
dren, fearful of the Avrath of the people around them, had
crossed the Mississippi on the ice, and traveling with ox teams
and on foot, they penetrated the wilderness to the Indian
country near Council Bluffs on the Missouri. The remnant
of their colony, many of whom were old men, feeble women,
and delicate girls, started the next autumn and were compelled
to traverse the same dreary regions. The united host, under
the guidance of Brigham Young, then temporal and spiritual
leader, halted on the broad prairies of the Missouri the fol-
lowing summer ; turned up the virgin soil and planted crops.
Here, leaving a few to cultivate and gather the crops, the
host moved on, making the wilderness vocal with preaching
and singing. Order marked every step of their progress, for
the voice of Young, whom they regarded as a seer, was to
them as the voice of God. On thev went forming: tabernacle
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 2!)
camps, or temporary resting places in the wildei-ness. No
obstacles impeded their progress. They forded swift running
streams, and bridged the deeper floods; crept up the great
eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, and from the summits
of the Wasatch range, they beheld on the 20th day of July,
1847, the valley where they were to rest and build a city, and
the placid waters of the Great 8alt .Lake, glittering in the
beams of the setting sun.
To those weary wanderers, this mountain top was a Pis-
gah. From it they saw the promised land; to them a scene
of wondrous interest. Westward lofty peaks bathed in purple
air, pierced the sky, and as far as the eye could reach, north
and south, stretched the fertile valley of promise, and here
and there the vapors of hot springs, gushing from rocky cov-
erts, curled above the hills, like smoke from hearth flres of
home.
Now returning to the Indians, we are led to believe that
the so-called Indian wars that have occurred in the last thirty
or forty years Avere nothing more than the result of out-
rages perpetrated on the Indians by a collection of des-
peradoes, who sought their territory in order to escape pun-
ishment for crime. There is no doubt but that numerous
criminals hiding from the law left the states to conceal them-
selves in the territories west of the Missouri river. They
were a lot of drunken ruffians, and when they became drunk
were impelled by a desire to shoot some person, and on the
least provocation they would rob and shoot an Indian, and
when the Indians undertook to defend themselves from the
attacks of this band of desperadoes, the cry would immedi-
ately go out in all the newspapers of the country that, "the In-
dians were again on the war path, and were about to engage
in a murderous raid on the settlers." The result was that the
Govermnent woidd immediately call out a military force to
punish the Indians.
The Indian side of this cruel story, was never published.
They had no newspaper, and no newspaper reporter was on
the ground to state the facts, until the battle Avas over. Every-
thing w^as charged against the Indians.
The treatment by the whites to the Indians, has long been
a subject of debate, but that the Indians were cruelly, and
unjustly treated, there can be no doul)t.
30 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
THE INDIAN
The red men of the forest, whom the Norsemen of the
North, the Gallic explorers, and Anglo-Saxon Puritans,
found upon the American continent, is a race whose origin
and ancient traditions are vet matters of mvstery. Theory
and speculation have offered us all the light we have con-
cerning this wild, uncivilized people, who were thus found in
possession of the North American continent, as far back as
the tenth century, when the Norsemen landed upon its north-
eastern coasts.
The Ma^ilower, in 1620, brought to Pl^^nouth Rock the
advance of the Anglo-Saxon race, which was destined to
achieve the mastery of the continent over its native occupants,
and build up a grand civilization, though at the cost of con-
quest and probable ultimate extinction of the red men, it
seems to have progressed.
From stride to stride, as the increasing Anglo-Saxon race
needed more of the wild domain of the Indians, he was pushed
on to the rear, and thus the rear has well nigh ended, and the
problem which today vexes the statesman and philanthropist
of the Nation, is the "Indian Problem." For over a hundred
years its solution has taxed the genius of the Anglo-American
people, and it bids fair to tax them for generations to come.
His condition and treatment have from time to time awak-
ened the sympathy of the philanthropists, and various hu-
mane plans have been devised to ameliorate his savage nature,
and bring him under the influence of the laws and civilized
teachings. This seems to have been the policy of the Govern-
ment, but unfortunately for the Indian it has not been exe-
cuted in good faith.
From the close of the Revolution and the treaty of peace
with the mother country, the Anglo American population in-
creased rapidly, and reached out for domain, until about half
a century^ — 1832 — brought them to the great war, of the con-
tinent of the Mississippi. Iowa then belonged to the lowas
and Sacs and Foxes, whose original titles, acquired by pos-
session, were secured by treaties, dating from 1832 to 1812,
which last cession included Lucas county, and all their terri-
tory west of the Mississippi river. These were the tribes that
once roamed over the prairie in the buffalo chase, and cam])ed
alonof the Chariton river.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 31
In 1846, the last uf these tribes were removed beyond the
western limit of the state. They left no tradition in this
county for historical record, except the names which they
affixed to streams and other natural objects. Should the
younger generation of this m3^sterious race of xieople follow
the wild footsteps of their ancestors, and extinction should
be the final result, the semi-civilized territory, will likely be
the only ones to perpetuate the race. Whether the Indian
has been justly deprived of the ownership of this country will
remain a subject for debate; but that he has been deprived,
cannot be denied.
The Saxon came and his conquering foot has trodden the
vast domain from shore to shore. The weaker race has with-
drawn from his presence and his sword. By the majestic
rivers and in the depth of the solitary woods, the feeble sons of
the bow and arrow will remain no more. Their names only
remain on hill, stream and mountain. The Indian sinks and
falls, his eyes are to the west. To the prairie and forests, the
hunting grounds of his ancestors, he bids farewell.
After the Indian had surrendered possession of the soil
of Iowa, there remained the Pottawattamies, who refused to
leave, and from 1849 to about 1854, they camped along the
streams in this county under the leadership of John Grenne.
They were harmless and friendly ; always begging and always
hungry enough for a hearty meal, and however ample they
Avere supplied they never left anything upon the table from
Avhich they partook. The.y wovdd invariably hide away under
their filthy wraps whatever they could not devour.
When curious visitors called at their wigwams they were
friendly and especially so long as the visitors' tobacco held
out. When the white settlers first began to visit them, they
would, when they asked them for tobacco, hand out the entire
plug or paper, expecting that when they filled their pipes or
took a chew, they would hand back the remainder, but this
was contrarv to their rule of social life, and instead the^'
would slyly slip it in their bosoms and wink at their com-
panions as much as to say, "White man, heap good." How-
ever, this trick did not last and the white people learned when
they asked for tobacco to give them a small i3iece.
The Indian is an inveterate beggar, and it is said that the
white people devised a plan to check his too frequent visits^
which operated effectively: they would refuse to give them
32 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
anytliing, but would ofter to sell them anything they wanted
upon their promise to pay for it the next time they came.
The result was that thev failed to come back.
Prior to the year 1843, Lucas county belonged to the In-
dian. Over it he hunted, and lished in its streams, and by his
camp fires his people danced and sang songs unmolested bv
the white man. Subsequent to 1843 the grand and beautiful
domain, including Lucas County, passed by a treaty to the
United States, wliich was ratified on the 23d dav of March of
jthat year. By the terms of this treaty the Indians were given
three vears in which to remove bevond the Missouri river.
Earlv in the vear 1846, while Iowa was a teritorv and after
the Indian had been forced toward the setting sun, and had
I'elinquished possession of the territory now covered by Lucas
county, and, in fact, all the state west of Lucas county, which
he had occupied from a time beyond which the records or tra-
ditions do not extend, the white men followed upon his trail,
and assumed possession of the coveted lands.
THE LAST GREAT IXDIAX BATTLE IX IOWA
The principal village of the lowas was on the Des Moines
river in Van Buren countv, on the site where lowaville was
built. Here the last great battle between the Sacs and Foxes
and the lowas was fought. Black Hawk, then a young man,
commanded one division of the attacking forces. The fol-
lowing account of the battle has been given:
Contrary to long estal)lished custom of the Indian, the bat-
tle was commenced in the day time, the attending circum-
stances justifying this departure from the well-settled usages
of Indian warfare. The battlefield was a level river bottom,
about four miles in length, and two miles wide near the middle,
narrowing to a point at either end. The main end of this bot-
tom rises perhaps twenty feet above the river, lea^dng a nar-
row strip of low bottom along the shore covered with trees that
belted the prairie on the river side with a thick forest, and the
immediate bank of the river was fringed with a dense growth
of willows. Near the lower end of this prairie, near the river
bank, was situated the Iowa village. About two miles abo\-e
it, and near the middle of the prairie is a mound covered at
the time with a tuft of small trees and underbrush growing on
its summit. In the rear of this little elevation or mound lav a
PAST A\D PKESEXT OF LUCAS COUNTY 33
belt of wet prairie, covered at that time, with a dense growth
of rank, coarse grass. Bordering this wet ^jrairie on the
north, the country rises abi-uj^tly into elevated broken rivev
bluft's, covered with a heavy forest for many miles in extent,
and in places thickly clustered with undergrowth, affording
a convenient shelter for the stealthy approach of the foe.
Through this forest the Sac and Fox war party made their
way in the night and secreted themselves in the tall grass
spoken of above, intending to remain in ambush during the
day and make such observations as this near proximity to
their intended victim might afford to aid them in their con-
templated attack on the town during the following night.
From this situation their spies could take a full survey of the
village, and watch every movement of the inhabitants, by
which means they were soon convinced that the lowas had no
suspicion of theii' presence.
At the foot of the mound alcove mentioned, the lowas had
their race-course, where they diverted themselves with the
excitement of horse racing, and schooled their warriors in cav-
alry evolutions. In these exercises mock battles were fought,
and the Indian tactics of attack and defense carefully incul-
cated, by which means a skill in horsemanship was acquired
rarely excelled.
Unfortunately for them this day was selected for their
equestrian sports, and wholly unconscious of the proximity of
their foes, the warriors repaired to the race ground, leaving
most of their arms in the village, and their old men, women
and children unprotected.
"Pash-a-po-po," who was chief in command of the Sacs
and Foxes, perceived at once the advantage this state of
things afforded for a complete surj^rise of his now doomed
victims, and ordered Black Hawk to file off with his young
warriors through the tall grass and gain the stretch of the
timber along the river bank, and with the utmost speed reach
the "tillage and conmience the battle, while he remained with
his division in the ambush to make a simultaneous assault on
the unarmed men. whose attention was engrossed with the
excitement of the races. The plan was skillfully laid and most
dexterously executed. Black Hawk, with Ms forces, reached
the ^'illage undiscovered, and made a furious onslaught upon
the defenseless inhabitants, by firing one general volley into
their midst, and com]^leted the slaughter with the tomahawk
31 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
and scalping knife, aided by the devouring flames with which
they enveloped the village as soon as the fire brand could be
spread from lodge to lodge.
On the instant of the report of five-arms at the village, the
forces under Pash-a-po-po leaped from their couchant posi-
tion in the grass and sprang tiger-like upon the astonished
and unarmed lowas in the midst of their racing sports. The
first impulse of the latter naturally led them to make the ut-
most speed toward their arms in the village, and protect if pos-
sible their wives and children from the attack of their merci-
less assailants. The distance from the place of attack on the
prairie was two miles, and a great number fell in their flight by
the bullets and tomahawks of their enemies, who pressed them
closely with a running fire the whole way, and the survivors
onlv reached their own town in time to witness the horrors of
its destiiiction. Their whole village was in flames, and the
dearest objects of their lives lay in slaughter heaps amidst the
devouring element, and the agonizing groans of dying mingled
with the exulting shouts of the victorious foe, filled their
hearts with maddening despair.
Their wives and children, who had been spared the general
massacre, were prisoners, and together with their arms were
in the hand of the victors; all that could now be done was to
draw off their shattered and defenseless forces, and save as
many lives as possible by a retreat across the Des Moines
river, which they effected in the best possible manner, and
took a position among the "Soap Creek Hills."
THE CITY OF CHARITON
By permission of the Rev. George R. Chambers of Chari-
ton, we will here insert the following carefully prepared sta-
tistics concerning the city of Chariton, the county seat of
Lucas County. It was prepared by Mr. Chambers at the
instance of the C. B. & Q. R. R. Co. for pul)lication in pam-
phlet form, for distribution among those seeking new loca-
tions, along its route in low^a.
"The C. B. & Q. railway is gathering statistics concerning
the towns along its route for publication in pamphlet form
for distri])ution among those seeking new locations. In its
quest for information inquiries were sent to the Business
Men's organization and in turn these inquiries were referred
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 35
to George R. Chambers, who lias been very aetive and very
accurate in securing the information desired. We give the
result of his hndings herewith and believe the people of Chari-
ton are under obligations to Mr. Chambers for the time spent
in gathering the statistics given below:
"The city of Chariton, the coimty seat of Lucas County,
has a population of 4,500 and is steadily growing.
"It has splendid railway facilities to all points. The main
line of the C. B. & Q. east and west, the south branch of the
C, B. & Q. to St. Joe and Kansas City, the north branch of
the C, B. & Q. to Indianola. The direct short line of the Rock
Island from Minneapolis and Des ^loines to Kansas City.
"It has a $43,000.00 water plant and a $50,000.00 electric
light and power plant, both owned and controlled by the mu-
nicipality. A gas company, recently organized with capital
stock of $35,000.00.
' ' Two miles of paved streets beautiful with well kept park-
ings and trees. Three additional miles to be paved shortly.
"Thirtv miles of sidewalk almost entirelv cement.
"Six miles of sewer with two miles extension ordered.
"For fire protection it has its water system, six large sized
auxiliary cisterns, and a reservoir within two blocks of the
public square. A fine equipment including a steam fire en-
gine and a volunteer company, which has carried the state
premium three years in succession, and which holds the silver
tinimpet of the state.
"Fuel for factory and domestic purposes is to be obtained
in the immediate vicinity at low prices. The additional coal
fields now being made available by the extension of the Rock
Island line will still further decrease the price.
"Chariton has fourteen church organizations, with splen-
did stone, brick and other buildings. St. Andrew's church is
the most beautiful church building this side of Chicago.
"Chariton does not have a saloon.
"Fine High school building, accredited course of study,
commercial, manual training and domestic science depart-
ments, efficient faculty of twenty-nine teachers, with nearly
1,000 scholars. Three buildings for the grades. There is also
a business college' in the city.
"Chariton is one of the wealthiest cities of its class with
deposit of $1,500,000.00 in its foiu' banks.
86 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
"Two weekly newspapers with circulation of 3,500 and
3,250 respectively.
"Among its industries are the Schrieber Wagon & Cay-
riage Works, broom factory, iron foundry, brick factory,
Threlkeld Spring Bolster Works, monumental stone Avorks,
cigar factories, flour and feed mills, and an ice company for the
manufacture of ice, just organized.
"Chariton's j^ostoffice handles an unusually large amount
of mail. Has both citv and rural delivery. A Federal build-
ing will be erected shortly. Bell telephone handling both the
city and rural lines.
"A $75,000.00 courthouse; $25,000.00 county house; free
public librar}^ costing $11,000.00; Rock Island depot being
erected to cost $12,000.00 ; two fine hotels ; many palatial resi-
dences.
"The vicinity produces all kinds of i^rize cattle, horses,
hogs, sheep and poultry, many of which have a national repu-
tation.
"Hay tw^o and one-half tons to acre.
"Timothy seed, four bushels to acre.
"Wheat, forty bushels to acre.
"Oats seventy bushels to acre.
' ' Corn eighty-five bushels to acre.
"Excellent coal in seams of six to eight feet.
"The produce houses of Chariton handle $500,000.00 ot
eggs, butter and poultry annually, shipping receipts show
Chariton to be one of the best ma]'kets in the state.
"Largest shipment of commercial horses in state.
"Largest shi2)ment of timothy seed in the state.
"Finest corn lands.
"L^nusual opportunities for dairying.
"Among the very best blue grass lands in the world.
"Largest stocks of outfitting, dry goods, etc., in southern
Iowa.
"An unusually large number of traveling men living in
the city.
"Within five years Chariton will be the center of the coal
mining interests in the state. Experts state that very largo
amoimts will be paid out by the coal industries within this
time.
"Chariton offers special inducement in its electrical light
and power, quality of water, cheapness and close proximity of
South Side of Square
East Court Avenue
Woodlawn Avenue
West Side of Square
The Armory
East Side of Square
VIEWS OF CHAEITON
THT" ^^EW YOBK
TAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 39
fuel, its desirable location as a distributing point for cold
storage plant, wholesale houses, canning factories and indus-
tries of all kinds."
A comparison of the city of Chariton as it is represented
in the foregoing word picture, with the prairie village of
Chariton in its infanc}^, may prove interesting.
In thus turning backward the pages of history we pass
from a busy little city, with modern improvements and advan-
tages, to a few log cabins hidden in the tall grasses of a wild
prairie. From the sound of church bells on the Sabbath morn-
ing, to the barking of prairie wolves in the winter's evening!
From the humming wheels of industry, to the cooing of the
birds of the prairie ! We realize that while Chariton has not
been visited by a modern boom, yet it has had a steady healthy
growth, and it has the prospects of a pleasant, prosperour*
home town.
In 18-19 Richard Fisher, Pardon M. Dodge, and Ware-
ham G. Clark were appointed commissioners to select the loca-
tion for the count}^ seat town. They met at the home of Buck
Townsend, at a point about one and one-half miles southeast
of what is now the public square of Chariton. The people gen-
erally were interested in ascertaining about where the town
woidd be located, and quite a number met with the commis-
sioners. A few of them were anxious to get the control of
the town. It appears that Mr. Townsend, or Buck Townsend,
as he was called, was very anxious to have the town located on
his lands, or rather on the lands to or for which he had or held
a claim. The chances for speculation or graft were very few
in this wild country at that time.
It appears that after the commissioners had passed over
the lands south of Chariton, they came to an immense stake or
post, which the surveyors for the Government had placed at
the corner of the sections numbered, 19-20 and 29-30, in town-
ship 72-21. Mr. Clark, with the aid of some of the commis-
sioners, got upon this stake, and while standing on it, made
the following short, but eloquent speech. He said, pointing
to the surounding four forty-acre tracts of land: "Gentlemen,
here is the location of the countv seat town of Lucas Count v."
The commissioners first named the town ''Polk," in honor
of President Polk, but as a good many citizens were not satis-
fied with this name, a meeting of settlers was called and
this meeting decided to call the proposed new town "Chari-
40 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
ton." Chariton is the name of a Frenchman. There was a
French trader named Chariton, who established a trading
post or place on the bank of the Missouri river where the
Chariton river enters it, in the state of Missouri, and he named
this trading post ' ' Chariton. ' '
The stake upon which Mr. Clark stood when he selected
the location of Chariton, was planted in the earth where the
two roads or streets, now Main Street and Court Avenue,
cross each other at the southwest corner of the public square.
It seems that the growth of the new town was not near so
fast as the first settlers thought it would be. There was only
about 150 citizens in the county at that time, and they were
seeking lands, rather than town lots.
The new town was surveyed and platted by a surveyor
from Albia, in Monroe county, named Wel^b. The county
commissioners appointed agents to sell lots, and they were sold
at from $5 to $15 per lot.
Jonas AYescott and his brother Nelson Wescott, built the
first two cabin houses in the new town. The two families lived
in one of the cabins, and they kept a store in the other. These
houses were built on the northwest corner of the public square,
where the Commercial Bank is now located. Beverly Searcy
built a log house on the lot facing east on the southwest cor-
ner of the public square, where Oscar Israel's store is now
located, and Henry Allen soon afterwards, built a two-story
log house on the southeast corner of the public square, whicli
was used as a hotel for several vears. Bv this time cabin
houses were going up at different points over the county.
Chariton has the veritable public square common to most
of the similar towns in Iowa, and the business is transacted
almost entirely in buildings situated around this square.
It is claimed, and experience seems to verify the truth of
the claim, that, as a general rule, when such county seat towns
reach a population of about five thousand they have reached
their zenith. At this time in their history there is an overplus
of labor and Inisiness, and competition becomes so acute as to
destroy prices, and the result is that there appears an over-
supply of loafers. Non-producers never build a city. We can
recollect when the question for debate was, "Did God, or man,
determine the location and destiny of towns and cities'?" It
was claimed on the one hand that nature fixed the location of
cities. That the natural advantages of certain localities nee-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 41
essarily caused the location and gi-owth of cities there. This
seems to be true in some instances, but as a general rule the
location and remarkable growth of our western towns and
cities can be traced directly to the energy, industry, and deter-
mination of a comparatively few men, who at the time were
regarded by many as visionary and uncertain. The}^ sug-
gested, pursued, and at last succeeded in originating and carry-
ing out schemes of improvement, which to conservative busi-
ness men seemed impossi])le. But such men read more cor-
rectly the ]30ssibilities of our rich country, and time has proven
that their visionary schemes were in fact nothing more than
correct visions of the possibilities of the natural wealth of our
broad prairies. The history of the struggle between the towns
of that rich region of country extending from Omaha to
Kansas Citv seems to demonstrate the fact that in earlv days
€'' « *■
towns were built by men. The emigrants to the mountains and
to California procured their outfit at one of the many little
towns or villages situated on the Missouri river between
Omaha and Kansas City. Each village had its veritable ferry
boat and large stores of articles suitable for such a trip. Emi-
grants could purchase e^'erything required for this trip, in-
cluding mules, oxen, wagons and provisions, at such iDlaces.
This trade became important, and there was an active competi-
tion for it.
The towns of Omaha, St. Joe, Atchison, Leavenworth and
Kansas City engaged in a struggle for the location of the com-
ing city. About the year 1850 it became evident that a large
city would some day be built at some point within the country
between or at Kansas City and Omaha. Omaha relied upon
its superior site for a city, St. Joe relied upon its wealth
and the substantial character of its business men, while a gang
of boosters or boomers seemed to take the control of Kansas
Citv. While each and all of these towns were steadilv a^row^-
ing in population and wealth, and many of them relied upon
a class of enterprising substantial business men, yet the
Kansas City boomers stealthily secured the assistance of east-
ern capital, and eastern capitalists, and the war was then over.
Before the other towns awakened to the situation a class of
wealthy eastern capitalists had invested their money in Kan-
sas City, and the location of the city was fixed. At one bound
Kansas City secured the trade of that vast empire of rich
lands extending from Omaha to the Gulf of ^lexico, and its
destinv as the great citv west of the Missouri river was fixed.
42 PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
Kansas City is clearly a man-made city, in spite uf its nat-
ural disadvantages. Its principal business houses are located
in ravines and gulches, where the timid investor would never
dream of building a city.
The first cost of lots for dwellings was very low, ])ut the
purchaser had to dig down or remove a hill to make a foun-
dation for his proposed dwelling, which made his lot expen-
sive. However, he was compensated for this work in the fact
that the sandy loam constituting the hill made first class
brick, and he could use it in making brick to build his house.
Kansas City brick is to-day largely used in building business
houses in southern Iowa.
THE PURCHASE OF THE TOWN SITE OF CHARITOX
Though the county was formally organized and its civic
machinery in partial working order subsequent to its first
election and the installment of its officers in 1819, yet it owned
no ground upon which it could erect its official buildings, not-
withstanding the commissioners chosen for that purpose had
selected the spot where they now stand, and officially reported
such action to the clerk of the District court of the comity, on
the 11th day of September, 1819, and by whom it was re-
corded.
On the 1st of February, 1850, the board of connnissioners
set about procuring the title to the land previously selected
for the site of its future seat of justice, and which had but
recently passed from its original owners, the Sac and Fox
Indians, to the United States. James G. Robinson, one of the
commissioners, was, at the session of said board of January
19, 1850, empowered to enter the quarter section of land the
county seat is located on, and thus he purchased from one
John Jappert, a military land warrant issued for military ser-
vices, and when the land that Chariton now stands upon came
into the market the patent therefor was issued to Mr. Robin-
son as assignee of the warrant. To secure a title to the county
when he should get it himself, Mr. Robinson executed a bond
to the commissioners in behalf of the county. This action on
behalf of Mr. Robinson was approved by the commissioners
at their next meeting on April 2, 1850. The patent for the
land was dulv issued to Mr. Robinson and afterwards, on the
30th day of October, 1851, Mr. Robinson and his wife executed
and delivered to the Countv of Lucas in the State of Iowa a
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 43
warranty deed to the 160 acres of land that had been selected
and purchased by the county.
Although the county had no title to the land from the day
of its location by the commissioners on the 11th day of Novem-
ber, 1849, until the execution and delivery of said deed in
October, 1851, a period of more than two years, yet its rights
and interests in the same were fully protected, and the mod-
ern idea of graft did not enter into any of the transactions.
At the session of the commissioners held September 12,
1849, it was ordered that William S. Townsend be, and he was
thereby appointed, as agent to lay off the county seat and sell
lots. In pursuance of such authority Mr. Townsend pro-
ceeded to execute the work entrusted to him. He employed
William Webb, a surveyor of Albia, to survey, plot and num-
ber the lots and blocks, and the result of his work was rej^orted
to the board at its session on November 5, 1849, whereupon
the board ordered "that the town plot as I'cturued by Wil-
liam S. Townsend be, and is hereby received, this 5th day of
November, 1849."
For his services and materials furnished the board ordered
that Mr. Townsend be paid the sum of $76.00; also $13.00 for
a chainman, and also $19.87 for boarding hands.
At the previous monthly session of the board of commis-
sioners in October, 1849, the following proceedings were had
and entered of record: ''Ordered, that the town lots of the
county seat of Lucas Countv be offered for sale on the first
Monday of November, 1849." This was the hrst public sale
and it occurred at the fixed time and under the direction of the
above mentioned Mr. Townsend.
At the April session, 1850, of the board of county commis-
sioners, Nelson Westcott was employed by the board to sur-
vey and plot the town of Chariton, and with the assistance of
Beverlv Searcv, Scott Arnold, Henrv Allen, Mills Vanmeter
and William H. Record, he proceeded to do so, and his plot
was completed and submitted to the board at its session held
on the 15th day of May, 1850. It was approved and filed for
record the 21st day of May, 1850. The lots were platted
82i/> feet wide and 165 feet in depth. It will be seen that these
lots were well suited in size for dwelling house and home pur-
poses. Much more so than the modern lot which runs 25 to 50
feet in width by 100 feet in depth. It is true that a lot 82^^
feet wide is not convenient for business purposes. When
44 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
divided into four lots, as some of these large lots were, it
makes the lots too small. Agents were appointed to sell these
lots at from $5.00 to $15.00 per lot.
COPIES OF RECORDS
In 1849 when the commissioners appointed to locate the
county seat came, they met at the Townsend Inn, where also
had gathered almost every man in the county. It was a grand
holiday with most of them, but some of them desired to secure
lots in the new town. There are some incidents connected
with the transactions and duties of the commissioners that wil I
bear publication. The next day after their arrival while they
were traveling over the county south of Chariton they found
a wolf, and after an exciting chase they caught it. The}^ then
collected about all the dogs in the county and then turned the
wolf loose, having another exciting chase. From this incident
they gave the name of Wolf creek to the stream near which
they had caught the wolf, and it still retains that name.
The next morning after the wolf chase, the commissioners
with quite a number of the settlers started north in search of
the best location for the new town. AVhen they came to a
stake some four feet high, placed to mark the corners '6f sec-
tions 19, 20, 29 and 30, in township 72, X. range 21, W.. Com-
missioner Wareham G. Clark, with the aid of some of the
party, climbed up and stood on the top of the stake where he
had a view of the surroimding prairie, and Avhile standing on
this stake he formally and emphatically said: "Gentlemen,
this is the location of the county seat of Lucas county.*' The
other commissioners approved of this selection and the ques-
tion of the location of the county seat town of Lucas county was
settled. On the 11th day of Septeml^er the commissioners sub-
mitted a report of their action to thej^oard of county commis-
sioners which was approved and the proper officials were
directed to secure the title to the southeast quarter of the
southeast quarter of section 19, and the southwest quarter of
the southwest quai'ter of section 20, and the northwest quarter
of the northwest quarter of section 29, and the northeast quar-
ter of the northeast quarter of section 30, all in township 72,
N. range 21, W.
To this town the commissioners gave the name of Polk in
honor of the then recently retired president. The people.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 45
however, for some reason were not satisfied with this name
and soon thereafter at a public meeting of the settlers changed
it to Chariton. Chariton is a French name. It was the name
of a Frenchman .who was an Indian trader. He located a
trading post on the north bank of the Missouri river at the
point where the Chariton river empties into the Missouri, and
called it Chariton.
OTHER TOWNS IN LUCAS COUNTY
The towns in Lucas countv outside of Chariton, the
county seat, are the towns of Russell, in Washington town-
ship, Derby in Union township and Lucas in Jackson town-
ship. Each of these towns have a jDopulation of about six
hundred people.
RUSSELL
Russell is situated on the main line of the C, B. & Q. R. R.,
about eight miles east of Chariton. It has the usual com-
modious schoolhouse common to Iowa towns of its size. As
hereinbefore stated, Iowa has very nearly approached perfec-
':ton i_ the building of such houses. Our architects have con-
structed so man}^ schoolhouses in the state during the last
thirty-five years, and the comi3etition between architects for
the construction thereof has been so acute, that it would seem
that they have discovered every possible advantage or im-
provement in such houses. In other words, the modern school-
house in Iowa is a model of perfection in such buildings.
They have not only looked to the point of constructing a sub-
stantial house, but they ha^'e had regard to the beauty and
convenience of the same. They have sought to render it at-
tractive, thereby impressing teachers and students with pleas-
ant memories of their stay therein, and causing them to refer
with pride to this beautiful house and grounds where they
acquired their education.
Here they not only acquire knowledge of the elementary
branches of education, but the surroundings educate and de-
velop the love of the beautiful and useful things of life, which
tends to render them better men and women.
Russell also has the usual niunber of churclies and churcli
buildings. While none of them are unusually large or attrac-
Vol. 1—3
46 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
live, yet they indicate that such societies are energetic, and
alive to the interest involved therein, and their church buikl-
ings are amply sufficient to accommodate their membershi}>.
The number of orders and societies in these smaller towns,
of both men and women, shows that the existence and growth
of the same is realized and appreciated by the community, and
the influence and teachings thereof is felt in such communi-
ties.
While such towns cannot become large, or grow into cities,
yet they become and are great convenience and benefit to the
people of the surrounding county. They each possess large
supplies of lumber and building materials, and also a large
supply of hardware and farm implements, and farm machin-
ery, which can be, and is sold as cheaply there as in any other
market.
The last generation has discussed the question whether op
not we should endeavor to cheapen the cost of such articles l)y
placing them on the free list, permitting their importation
and sale in this country without duty, but, as this question has
not been finally settled, it remains a question to be deter-
mined by the next generation of statesmen. When all other
questions are determined, the people can entertain themselves
by discussing the tariff.
DERBY
The town of Derbv is situated on the branch road of the C,
B. & Q. R. R. Co., extending from Chariton to St. Joseph, Mis-
souri. It is surrounded by a first class farming country, and
has several general stores, besides extensive stocks of lumber,
hardware and farm implements. Derby and Lucas keep and
sell as much hardware and farm machinery and implements as
Chariton does.
Derby has the usual number of schoolhouses, churches and
other societies and organizations. These smaller towns, of
late years, have shown a disposition to organize and encourage
the usual societies, orders and means of social and mental
improvement witnessed in cities and larger towns. As some
one remarked, there is no reason why his village of Tinkle-
town with a population of 100 souls could not have as beauti-
ful blue grass lawns, as they have in Chicago and New York.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 47
LUCAS
The town of Lucas, while possessing in substance about
the same number of peojjle possessed by Russell and Derb}',
and also with imi)i'(jvements, stores, churches and other ad-
vantages and organizations of said towns, has at times had the
advantage of being the seat of valuable coal mines. For many
years the coal mines at and near the town of Lucas were so
operated as to produce from 200 to 600 tons of coal per day.
The history of such mining operations has been shown in our
article in relation to coal. The effect of this coal business on
the town was apparent. At times when said mines were in full
operation the population would increase to several thousand
people, but w^hen the mines would close, the population would
decrease to five or six hundred people. . An effort is now
being made to renew this mining business.
ORDERS AND SOCIETIES
Chariton has the usual number of orders and societies pos-
sessed, perhaps, by every town of its population. While the
proceedings and work of such orders are usually done so sec-
retly and quietly that the gejieral public does not take note
thereof, yet the benefits and advantages of such associations
become aiDparent to every person acquainted therewith. Men
become attached to such orders, and man}^ of them attend the
meetings thereof more regularly than they do their churches.
They also in a quiet way assist the needy and unfortunate, and
in divers ways lessen or palliate many of the ills of humanity.
THE MASOXS
Chariton Lodge No. 63 of Ancient Free and Accepted
Masons was instituted by Grand Master A. R. Cotton of the
Grand Lodge of Iowa. Its chapter bears date June 6, 1855.
The following are the names of its charter members. Wz. : S.
P. Yeoman, P. G. Goss, G. W. Glenn, Joseph Mitchell, James
Baker, J. E. McClerg, W. W. Baker, James Glenn.
The first officers were: S. P. Yeoman, worshipful master;
James Baker, senior warden; P. G. Goss, junior warden;
Joseph Mitchell, treasurer; W. W. Baker, secretary.
48 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
J. N. McClanaban, a member of this lodge, was grand mas-
ter of the Grand Lodge of Iowa.
Many years ago this lodge, in connection with the Odd
Eellows, purchased a half lot on the northwest corner of the
public square in Chariton. This half lot was forty-two and
one-fourth feet front, with a depth of 165 feet. The two lodges
held the title to said half lot m conmion for many years before
any house was built thereon. After owning this half lot for
several years in common, it was divided between them, the
Odd Fellows taking the south half thereof, and the Masons
the north half.
G. W. Larimer, the owner of an ordinary business lot ad-
joining this half lot, being twenty-one feet four inches front,
and 165 feet in depth. As these parties were together the
owners of three ordinary sized business lots, they concluded
to build one house thereon, and they built a three-story brick
house on the same about the j^ear 1890.
The lower story is occupied by store-rooms, the second
story by offices, and the third by lodge rooms. The First Na-
tional Bank of Chariton has occupied the corner rooms in the
first story for banking imrposes for about twenty-five years,
and on the failure of that Bank in November, 1907, the Lucas
County National Bank rented said rooms, and since that date
have been using the same for banking purposes. This build-
ing is called and known as "Union Block," and is among the
most substantial blocks in the city. It cost about $16,000.00.
The following are the names of the present officers of the
Masonic Lodge, to wit: W. W. Murphy, W. M. ; F. W. Trast,
S. W. ; C. F. Elrod, J. W. ; J. C. Copeland, treasurer ; P. E.
Edgren, S. I).; Eli Oppenheimer, secretary; Arthur Hunder-
son, J . D. ; C. E. Froggett, S. S. ; AV. B. E. Luck, tyler.
ROYAL ARCH MASONS
Chariton Chapter No. 22 of Royal Arch Masons was insti-
tuted by G. W. Eastman, Grand High Priest, in 1858. The
charter is dated June 29, 1858, and contains the following per-
sons who were its original officers : D. N. Smith, H. P. ;
Charles Anderson, scribe ; L. E. Sargent, P. S. ; W. E. Sargent,
King; A. C. Cameron, C. H. ; James Brown, R. A. C. It is
well supplied with elegant and appropriate furniture.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 49
ODD FELLOWS LODGE
The charter of the Chariton Lodge No. 64 Independent
Order of Odd Fellows bears date, October 11, 1855. Soon
after its organization its members numbered 143. The fol-
lowing are the names of the present officers of said lodge,
to wit : Howard Culbertson, N. G. ; R. C. Wood, V. G. ; C. W.
Rose, secretary ; D. N. Rogers, treasurer ; F. C. Elliott, I. N.
Bowen, H. W. Brewer, trustees.
GAYOSA ENCAMPMENT
The Gayosa encampment No. 33, a higher branch of Odd
Fellowship, was instituted by Thomas D. Evans under dis-
pensation from Grand Encampment dated May 17, 1867. A
charter issued in October, 1869, contains the following names :
Robert McCormick, John H. Bramhall, S. F. Stewart, H. C.
Markham, E. E. Edwards, N. B. Gardner, D. D. Waynick,
Gaylord Lyman, J. A. Brown, William McDermit, Samuel
Stackhouse, Artenas Ruch.
TEMPERANCE SOCIETIES
From time immemorial, societies have been organized in
the interest of temperance, and for the purpose of preventing
or limiting the sale or use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage.
The early societies sought to effect such reform by moral
suasion, and by creating a prejudice against liquor sellers
and liquor selling. These early organizations were called
"Teetotalers," "Washingtonians," or "Good Templars."
Temperance lecturers traA^led over the country. Students
wrote essays and declamations on the evil of intemperance,
while ministers thundered anathemas against the horrors of
liquor selling, from their pulpits.
We find in the early davs of Chariton there existed here
a temperance society called "The Prairie Flower Social Tem-
ple." This organization did not live long. Some wag remarked
that "its name killed it." However that may be, it is a mat-
ter of history that after existing for two years it gave place
to a society called "The Independent Order of Good Tem-
plars." This name also proved to be unhealthy, and after
existing for about four vears the societv died. It was orsran-
50 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
ized about Januaiy, 1866, and lived until about 1870. The
following are the names of the leading members of the Good
Templars organization, to wit: Dr. James D. Wright, Josepli
A. Brown, Mrs. Fawcett, Mrs. Ann Newell, T. W. Fawcett,
Mr. Chappell, Mrs. Wright, S. D. Hickman.
It is said that at one time nearly all of the young people of
Chariton were members of this society. It was a social suc-
cess, and no doubt it did much good in creating and maintain-
ing a strong sentiment against the sale and use of intoxicating
liquors as a beverage.
After trying to effect such reform by "moral suasion,"
as it was called, that is, by creating a strong feeling and
prejudice against intemperance, and having failed to check
this growing evil, the people turned to the law for protection,
as will be seen in our former article on prohibition.
THE CHARITON COLLEGIUM
The Chariton Collegium No. 27 U. A. S. was instituted by
D. Maltby, deputy chief rector, under the dispensation dated
March 24, 1881. Its first officers were : S. B. Tinkham, rec-
tor ; J. C. Peacock, usher ; J. H. McFarland, vice rector ; A. U.
McCormick, scribe ; T. P. Stanton, questor.
In a published notice of this order it is said,
" It is fair to presume that the members of this organization
know its object, and it is not hazarding much to say that to
the majority of the general public it is a new thing under the
Sim, and some curiosity will be manifested concerning it,
especially as to what the 'V. A. S.' means. It is 'Variously
Assorted Society,' or 'Victims Are Scarce.
? ??
ORIOX LODGE
Orion Lodge No. 302 I. O. O. F. was instituted by Dis-
trict Deputy Robert McCormick. Their charter is dated Octo-
ber 21, 1875. The names of the charter members are : Andrew
Day, J. F. Smith, A. W. Shaft'er, J. C. Mitchell, S. J. Markle,
a. F. Holmes, E. E. Harris, S. P. Moss, E. R. Young, R.
Bocker.
THE KXIGHTS OF PYTHIAS
was organized under a charter dated NoATmber 30, 1874.
The following were the charter members, viz : A. Ruesch, S.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 51
E. Carpenter, Moses Folsom, R. M. Moore, D. M. Thorapsoii,
N. B. Gardner, J. C. Baker, W. B. Critchfield, Ed. T. Best,
R, J. Coles, J. F. Sprague, J. N. McClanahan. The following
are the present officers of this lodge, viz : J. H. Collins, D. G.
C. ; H. A. Shirer, C. C. ; J. H. Hickman, V. C. ; P. J. Smyth,
Prel.; P. T. Perry, M. At A.; P. A. Gray, M. of F.; E. L.
Gookin, M. of E. ; C. W. Rose, R. R. & S. ; E. Miller, J. G. ; T.
Percifield, O. G. ; J. C. Copeland, M. R. W.
CHURCHES AND CHURCH BUILDINGS IN
CHARITON
The Methodist church has been the pioneer church of the
West. Methodist preachers followed closely upon the foot-
steps of the pioneers of southern Iowa, and the wandering
minister was always a w^elcome visitor at the cabins of the first
settlers. His visits came like letters from home. He brought
the news from Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky or some other local-
ity in which some of the settlers were interested. He was
regarded as a fountain of knowledge, and his advice on divers
subjects was regarded as disinterested and valuable. Some of
these pioneer preachers were men of much more than ordi-
nary ability. For instance, the Rev. Robert Coles of Chari-
ton, Henry Clay Dean of Mount Pleasant, Peter Cartwright of
Springfield, Illinois, and John D. Walker of VanBuren
county, Iowa, were regarded as leaders in their localities.
Henry Clay Dean was a born orator, Peter Cartwright
was a born fighter, Robert Coles was a born leader, while John
D. Walker was an eloquent and magnetic talker.
THE METHODIST CHURCH
The first Methodist church in Chariton was organized by
the Rev. E. L. Briggs in the year 1851. The Home Missionary
society of the M. E. church aided and assisted in this enter-
prise. In the beginning there were only three or four mem-
bers of that denomination in Chariton, and their meetings
were held in the new log courthouse on the east side of the
public square.
This society prospered and increased in number from the
start, so fast that in 1851 they concluded tliev were able to
build a house of their own. The building erected was a sub-
stantial frame house, twentv-four feet wide bv thirtv-six feet
52 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
in length, and cost about $1,000. This buikling was after-
wards used by the school district as a schoolhouse, and in
1869 it was used by Henry Whiting as a machine shop, and
afterwards as a woolen mill and a warehouse.
The society rebuilt this house in 1880, expending over
$2,000 in remodeling it. About 1868 the society built a com-
fortable parsonage on a portion of the same lot.
About the 3^ear 1898 this society built a large comfortable
and elegant church building, the largest in the city of Chari-
ton, or in Lucas county. It was constructed largely of gray
stone, so arranged that two large rooms can be thrown to-
gether and used as one large audience room.
The early records of the church have not been kept as
carefully as they should have been, and hence for many mat-
ters of interest we are required to appeal to the memory of
its early members and officers. According to their recollec-
tions the following are the names of the pastors who have had
charge of said society since its organization in 1851, to wit:
The Reverends E. L. Briggs, D. N. Smith, C. C. Maybee, Rev.
Reed, P. F. Bresee, C. R. Pomeroy, T. McStuart, W. F.
Burke, Austin, W. F. Bartholomew, William Thompson,
B. F. U. Crozier, M. D. Collins, A. W. Johnson, D. D. Dicker-
son, J. F. Goolman, A. H. Collins, D. C. Franklin, A. H. La-
throp, Ilgenfritz, Mr. Bussey, John Darrah, Joseph Knotts,
H. B. Heacock, Mr. Goolman, H. H. O'Neal, W. D. Bennett,
S. Guyer, Rev. Roderick, Rev. Evans, Rev. Volmer.
THE PEESBYTEEIAN CHURCH
of Chariton was organized on the 5th day of July, 1856. The
original members were Joseph Best, Robert Robe, Jacob Best,
Warren S. Dungan, J. C. Best, James McDowell, M. J. Berk-
holder, S. E. Blair, H. W. Best, Mrs. Catharine McDowell,
Miss Elizabeth Best.
In the years 1867-8 the society built a substantial brick
church house with basement, which cost about $5,000, which
was dedicated September 6, 1868, at a session of the Des
Moines Presbytery, Rev. C. C. Beaty preaching the dedicatory
sermon. Rev. W. C. Halliday was supply of the church from
1864 to 1867, but was never a regularly installed pastor.
The following are the names of the different pastors : The
Reverends J. Anderson, J. Stuart Reed, D. S. Tappan, W. C.
PAST AXD PKESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 53
Halliday, Christian S. McElhaney, John Aughey, Anderson
Chittenden, T. Aszman, W. C. McCallough, Alfred Ormond,
W. C. Atwood.
The society was at the time criticised by the public for
failing to employ AV. C. Halliday, or "Old Man Hollyday,"
as he was called, as its pastor when it Ijuilt its new house. He
had served as its pastor since 1864, and by his industry and
activity had secured funds to build the new house, and the
same was built under his supervision, and then when he ob-
tained a new and comfortable home for the society it dis-
pensed with his services, for the reason, as it was said, that he
was a little behind the times. However what "they" or the
public may say is not always correct, and the congregation,
and not the jjublic, ought to have the right to select their own
pastor. Of the original members none is left but Warren
S. Dungan. Colonel Dungan has taken an active jDart in main-
taining a Sabbath school in connection with the organization
of the church up to the present time. In 1908 this society
comijleted a beautiful and commodious new church building
on the same lot on which its former churches had been built.
It was constructed of artificial stone of a light gray color, and
cost about $15,000. The basement under the entire building
is well lighted and well ventilated, and is used for Sabbath
school and for all business meetings of the church. Such
buildings show that in the future concrete will be largely
used in most buildings. It seems probable that the day is not
far distant when concrete, glass and iron will be largely used
in the construction of houses of all kinds.
ST. :\[ary's catholic church
was organized in 1869 by Father McManamy. The following
are the names of the members of the first societv, viz: John
Welch, James Grallagher, Timothy Lyons, William Crosby,
Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Mannatte, James Rupple, Patrick Carey,
James Crosby, Patrick Kenney, Mr. Mullen.
The priests in charge of this church since its organiza-
tion have been Father McManamy, Father Cannon, Father
Harrison, Father Hays, Father Sheridan, Father Waldron,
Father Gaffney, Father Gaul, Father Bo^^nan, Father
Henry, Father Niel, Father White, Father Leonard, Father
Murphy, Father Kennedy, Father McGillin, Father Ade.
54 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Father Hays was remarkable for his energy and industry
in working for the interests of his church. He purchased
four acres of land for a Catholic cemetery, in the northeast
part of the town, at a cost of $300. He also collected and sent
$1,000 to the poor in Ireland. He was active in securing the
building of a j^arsonage, which cost about $1,500.
THE CHKISTIAX CHURCH
or the Campbellite church, as it was originally called, was
organized at Chariton about the year 1856. In 1867 the soci-
ety built a comfortable frame church at the cost of about
$3,000 on a lot on Grand Street, where Harry Stewart now
resides. It occupied this house about twenty years, and so
increased in membership and financial strength, until about
the year 1890, when it built a large comfortable brick church
house, four blocks farther north, on the same street on which
the original or first church house was located.
The following are the names of the ministers who have
acted as pastors of said church, to wit: Ira C. Mitchell, Ziba
Brown, John Kinmouth, Jeremiah Haly, Robert Reed, N. E.
Cary, J. K. Cornell, D. C. Morris, T. V.' Berry, B. Linkenfel-
ter, W. W. Burk, J. H. Fuller, C. F. Ward, G. J. Ellis, A. K.
Conelle, W. A. Morrison, C. F. Sanderson, G. W. Kitchen,
C. E. Wells, C. C. Davis, George F. Hendrickson.
THE SWEDISH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
In November, 1869, a Swedish church named as above
was organized in Chariton. The following are the names of
the original meml^ers, viz: A. Anderson, John Nelson, J. F.
Ekfelt, A. Erlanson, O. Olson, L. J. Holmberg, C. Larson, G.
Lager.
For some time church services were held in the courthouse,
but in 1875 the church erected a commodious church buildini?
on the southwest corner of out lot No. 1. The foundation and
basement were made of stone, and the main building was a
frame. It is said to have cost about $3,000, but this was prob-
ably a very liberal estimate.
It was dedicated in the year 1880 by the Rev. O. J. Sil-
jestiom.
Methodist Episcopal Cliureh
Baptist Church. United
St. Andrew 's Church
First Presbyterian Church
United Presbyterian Church
Christian Church
United Brethren Church
CHURCH EDIFICES OF CHARITON
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 57
The following are the names of the different pastors who
have officiated at this church, to wit: N. Nordgren, Christer
Ostcrholm, M. Fry Roman, P. J. Sandeen.
ST. Andrew's episcopal church
This church was organized in 1866 by S. H. Mallory,
Joseph W. Wilkerson, Mrs. S. H. Mallory, C. W. Kittridge,
Mrs. J. W. Wilkerson, E. B. Woodward, Miss Maggie Mc-
Cormack, as its original members.
In 1869 the society built a neat little frame church build-
ing in which services were held for many years. This building
cost about $2,000, and it was dedicated in 1881 by Bishop
Perry of Iowa.
The following are the names of the different rectors since
its organization, viz. : Doctor Labach, Doctor Canfield, Doctor
Trewartha, Doctor Henry, Doctor Hakes, Dr. P. C. Wool-
cut, Doctor Dagan, Doctor Patmers, Doctor Russell, Doctor
Whitten, Doctor Colgrove, Doctor Jandon, Bishop Lee,
Bishop Perry, Bishop Morrison, and the present rector, G. R.
Chambers.
CHURCH BUILDIXG
A wealthy church member, Mrs. Fulkerson, by her will
left about $10,000 for the use and benefit of St. Andrew's, in
the construction of a new church l^uilding, and another mem-
ber, S. H. Mallory, also left about the same amount of money
for the same purpose, and by the assistance of other members a
fund of about $25,000 was provided for the building of sucli
new house.
Mrs. Jessie M. Thayer of Chariton, one of the building com-
mittee, having selected a certain church house built in Phila-
delphia as the most beautiful and desirable plan for such a
house, submitted this plan to the other members of the com-
mittee, who unanimously adopted the same, and the result
was that the new church house erected by St. Andrew's, at
the cost of about $25,000, is one of the handsomest, most com-
fortable and elegant church buildings in the state of Iowa.
The interior of the church was built of a light gray stone, while
the outside walls were Imilt of Colorado redstone.
58 PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
THE FIRST BAPTIST CHUECH OF CHARITON
The First Baptist cliurcli uf Chariton was organized in
December, 1853. The original members were : Wm. Ander-
son, Wm. Peck, S. J. Martin, Lucy Wilson, Wm. Wilson,
L. D. Martin, Margaret Anderson, Lucinda Peck, Helen Peck.
They built a frame house in 1867 that cost about $2,500,
which was dedicated in 1868 by the Rev. Morgan Edwards.
The names of the different pastors of this church were as fol-
lows : J. M. Seary, Warren Hildreth, S. P. Whitman, Wm.
Hickman, Wm. Sturgeon, James Frey, J. L. Cole, L. Casler,
L. S. Livermore, A. W. Sutton, B. F. Mace.
EARLY COURTS OF LUCAS COUNTY
As we have seen, justices of the peace were elected at
the first election held after the organization of the county.
These historic tribunals have closely followed the first steps
in the formation of human governments of every civilized
nation, and constitute the pioneer courts of every civilization.
The next court following that of justice of the peace was
the probate court, presided over by a county judge. His
power or jurisdiction was fixed by the statute creating the
court. In addition to its power to hear and determine certain
controversies, the probate court was given exclusive jurisdic-
tion of all questions arising in the settlement of estates of
deceased persons. They directed the pa\Tiient of all his debts,
and the distribution of his property. This is the first court
in Lucas county of which there is any record. It was estab-
lished in territorial days, and was continued under the stat-
utes of the state until July 1, 1851, when it was abolished.
Its first and only record appears in a quire of foolscap paper
sewed together.
The first proceeding as set forth in this primitive record,
is the appointment of Joel Lowder as administrator of Nelson
Lowder, deceased, on the 7th day of October, 1850, by Allen
Edwards, judge of the probate court. The administrator gave
bond in the sum of $200, with Henry Allen, James Yeukins,
and James G. Robinson, as his bondsmen. There is no further
record of said proceedings until March 11, 1853, when the
administrator filed his final report, and was discharged by
Jonas Wescott, county judge.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 59
The next probate proceeding was the appointment of Jacob
Phillips, as administrator of the estate of Daniel Phillips,
deceased. The appraisers filed an inventory of the personal
property of the deceased as follows : "7 head of steers, 2 chairs,
1 table, cooking utensils, 1 cow and calf, tableware, crocks,
buckets, 14 bushels of corn, 1 hide, 1 lot of turnips, 2 beds and
clothing, ] lot of cabbage, 2 weaving slaps, 1 debt of Miles
Vanmeter, $3.10, 1 coon skin, pumpkins, tubs, 8 sheep, 8 hogs,
1 plow, 1 drawing knife, cooper adz, 1 log chain, 2 yokes, 2
bedsteads, 1 side sole leather, 1 iron wedge, 1 lot old iron, 1
lot meat $12.50, 1 trowel, 1 lot of wood, 1 bee stand, a lot of
rails."
This property was sold at public sale for the aggregate
sum of $120,271/4. The debts against the estate amounted to
$61.3714, leaving the net assets amounting to $58.90. This is
said to be the first public sale held in the county. The iron
wedge sold for forty cents, and the scraps of old iron sold for
one dollar, which shows the scarcity of many articles in the
settlements.
The next proceeding of the probate court relates to the set-
tlement of the estate of Miss Catharine Phillips, deceased.
J. M. Miller was appointed administrator on the 3d day of
February, 1851. The inventory showed that deceased was
possessed of the following property, to wit :
A public land claim of 320 acres and forty acres of land
to which she held title, also 1 skillet, 1 cow, 1 pair of saddle
bags, 2 coon skins, 1 knife, 1 saddle, 2 axes, 14 of an ox yoke,
3 work steers, 3^/4 yards of satinet, ^/^ of a breaking plow, 1
rifle gun, 1 watch, 1 jug, 1 plow, 1 iron wedge, i/o of a wagon,
cash on hand, 20 cents, a claim against Beverly Searcy for
$1.50. The liabilities of the estate were found to amount to
$48.
THE COUXTY COURT
This court was established by the Code of 1851. Its juris-
diction extended to the settlement of estates, theretofore exer-
cised by the probate court, and also included the powers there-
tofore exercised by the county commissioners. The first
recorded proceedings of this court were in the settlement of
the estate of Thomas Wilson, deceased, at its December term
in 1853, as follows:
60 PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
"Estate of Thomas Wilson.
' ' State of Iowa (
"Lucas County j
"Now comes Elizabeth Wilson, by her attorney, O. L. Pal-
mer, and files her petition, praying dower in all of estate of
which her husband, Thomas Wilson died seized, and asks the
court to appoint Referees to allot the same."
Mr. O. L. Palmer was an educated lawyer, possessing more
than ordinary abilitv, but he abandoned the law for a mer-
cantile life, and from 1853 to 1870 he was the leading merchant
of Chariton. He afterwards removed to western Kansas,
where he died.
Among the curiosities foimd in the early records of the
county there appears the following:
"County Court, on the first Monday in April 1857, Milton
Douglas was elected to the office of judge in and for said
County of Lucas, and has given bond, taken the oath of office
as the laAv Proscribes. His office expires on the first Monday
in Aug.. 1857.
Milton Douglas, County Judge."
It seems that Mr. Douglas wanted it distinctly understood
that he had been duly elected as county judge.
SWAMP LAXDS
The following is the first record concerning the swamp
land in which the county was interested.
"Office of the County Judge, March 7, 1853.
Ordered. By the county court that AVaitman Trippett
be appointed surve^^or to select and return the swamp lands
in Lucas county, according to the act of the general assembly,
appi'oved February 2, 1853.
Jonas Wescott, County Judge."
At the following September term of said court Mr. Trip-
pett filed his report, accompanied by plats of the swamp lands
he had selected, which report was approved and ordered to be
placed on record. For his services Mr. Trippett was allowed
the sum of $56, by James Hall, prosecuting attorney and act-
ing county judge.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 61
COUNTY OFFICERS
On the first day of April, 1857, the following named per-
sons were elected as justices of the peace in the different town-
ships of the county. To wit : David Crawleg, Pleasant town-
ship; Isaac C. Cain, English township; Jackson L. Thomas,
Union township; J. B. Holmes, Liberty township; John S.
Sheller, Chariton township; S. D. Waynick, Warren town-
ship ; Charles E. Allen, Cedar township ; S. D. Houston, Ben-
ton township ; and W. C. Mauk, Whitebreast township.
COUNTY JUDGES
The following named persons filled the office of county
judge during its existence: Jonas Wescott, from its organ-
ization until 1854; Thomas Best, from April, 1855, until
September, 1856; Milton Douglas served from September,
1856, until September, 1857, when he was succeeded by Ethan
Guard, who served until January, 1860, when John P. New-
man became liis successor and served until October, 1860.
From this time, N. B. Gardner, clerk of the district court and
ex-officio county judge, performed the duties of this office of
county judge under the law. On November 19, 1860, after-
wards, Robert McCormick and Asbury Collins acted as county
judges until the first Monday in January, 1871, when the office
was abolished. However, jurisdiction in jDrobate matters was
conferred on the circuit court in January, 1869, by an act of
the Legislature creating said court.
THE DISTRICT COURT
The district court is a court of general jurisdiction, hav-
ing jurisdiction at law and in equity, and also general criminal
jurisdiction. The first term of this court was held at Chari-
ton in the old log courthouse on the 22d day of May, 1851, Hon.
William McKay, presiding judge.
The first case on the docket was entitled, "James Roland,
for the use of Wm. Davis v. Thomas Wilson." The record
does not show the nature or purpose of this action. It was
dismissed at defendant's cost. The next case was an action for
a divorce bv Anna Arnold v. Scott Arnold.
62 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
THE FIRST GRAND JURY
The first grand jury was composed of Milton Douglas,
Waitman Trippett, Jacob Phillips, James A. Mercer, Gran-
ville Westfall, Douglas Allen, Milton Lawder, James Barnett,
Hugh Larimer, George Weaver, Lloyd Jenkins, H. P. Sellers,
Hiram K. McKinnev, Samuel P. Martin and Edwin Culbert-
son. Douglas Allen was chosen foreman. H. D. Ives, an attor-
ney of Eddyville, Iowa, was appointed prosecuting attorney
for that term of court. Thomas Peck, as bailiff of the court.
TRIAL JURY
The following are the names of the persons constituting
the trial jury at the first term of the district court, to wit:
J. A. Allen, Eben Badger, Aaron Scott, George Cain, Wilson
Allison, C. Rankin, James Jenkins, Moses F. Henry, Jesse
Walker, James Mitchell, John Thacker and James Robinson.
The foregoing was the last term of court held in Lucas
county by J udge McKay. The next and third term of the Dis-
trict court in this county was held l^y the Hon. John S. Town-
send, judge, commencing June 20, 1853. Judge Townsend
had been elected at the prior election held in April of that
year.
JUDGES OF DISTRICT COURT
The following lawyers have occupied the position of judge
of the district court and circuit courts of this county, to wit :
William McKay, John S. Townsend, H. H. Tannehill, Henry
H. Trimble, Henry Dashiel, J. C. Knapp, M. J. Williams,
E. L. Burton and H. C. Traverse. Each and all of these men
were good lawyers, men of undoubted integrity, and they
discharged the duty of the position in a manner creditable to
themselves and to the entire satisfaction of the people who
elected them. One of these judges deserves special mention
for his ability as a lawyer. Perhaps it can not be said that
he was a profound lawyer, yet it was a common remark among
lawyers in speaking of him to say that "Henry Trimble
was the best all-round trial lawyer they ever knew." His
methods were very like those of Al^raham Lincoln. He was
always fair, and always, and under all circumstances, a gen-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 63
tleman. While he was not an orator, yet his good natured
Jogic was irresistible. While his analysis and criticism of a
dishonest witness left him a wreck, yet this delicate opera-
tion was performed so skillfully that the jury were apt to set
aside his evidence in sorrow, rather than in anger. Every
lawver has seen cases lost bv the coarse and cruel attack made
upon the opposite party or his witnesses, thus creating s^mi-
pathy for them. But like a skilled surgeon in removing a
foreign substance with his knife, it was done in such manner
as to eliminate pain as far as possible, Henry Trimble pos-
sessed the genius enabling him to operate so successfully on
a dishonest witness as to avoid the sting and pain ordinarily
attending this operation.
The following are the names of the present judges of oui'
district court, viz. : Frank W. Eichelberger, C. W. Vermilion,
F. M. Hunter and D. M. Anderson.
There is one very common error in regard to the position
of a judge of the district court, as compared with the position
of a judge of the supreme court. The impression is general
that the position of judge of the supreme court is more difficult,
and requires more work and greater ability on the part of a
judge thereof than does that of the judge of the district court.
This is a mistake. The judge of the district court is required
to decide every question in the case as it arises during the
trial. He has neither the time nor the opportunity to examine
or consider precedents at length. Under our system of juris
prudence questions in all branches of the law may arise in
our district courts during a trial. Today a district court judge
may be required to tr}^ any criminal case, while tomorrow he
must try cases in probate, or in equity. It is almost impossible
for him to become an expert in any one branch of the law ; but
while the judge of the supreme court is required to review any
finding or judgment of the District court, or any question, yet
he is given the benefit of the investigation that has been made
in every case by the district judge, and the facts of the case
having been printed, he is given ample time to examine them
with the aid of an extensive libi'ary, before he decides the case.
The District coui't judge is required to decide without
much time to examine the law, while the supreme judge is
given ample time to examine all precedents in such a case.
In fact the position of district judge is laborious, and requires
the highest degree of legal ability.
Vol. 1—4
64 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
THE LUCAS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
For much of the early history of this county we are
iudehted to the papers aucl records collected and preserved by
this society. Col. Warren S. Dungan, member and officer of
the same, has done more perhaps in the organization and main-
tenance thereof than any other citizen. He has also been
active in organizing and maintaining "The Old Settlers
Society." The chief object and purpose of both of these organ-
izations is substantially the same, viz, to collect and preserve
a history of the county.
The following report of Colonel Dungan will be found
interesting :
THE LUCAS COUXTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Organized June 10, 1901. This was the first county his-
torical society organized in the state of Iowa. In the spring
of 1901 Mr. Chas. Aldrich, curator of the Historical Depart-
ment of Iowa, suggested to the writer the formation of the
County Historical Society in every county of the state. He
said the matter was called to his attention by seeing in some
newspaper an account of the organization of such a society
in Washington county, Pennsylvania. He suggested that it
would be quite an honor to be the first county to thus organize,
as he had no doubt that in due time every county in Iowa
would have such a society. He further stated that he urged
the people of his own county to go to work and secure this
honor. That if Lucas county should first organize, that county
would have the honor.
Soon after he sent me the account of the organization ol
the society in Washington county, Pennsylvania, including its
constitution and bv laws. About the same time I received a
letter from Miss Margaret W. Bi'own, whose home was in
Chariton, but written from Des Moines, where she then was
and still is connected with the Free Traveling Library of
Iowa, earnestly approving Mr. Aldrich 's view and asked me
to appoint a meeting of the citizens at Chariton at some con-
venient day in the near future, at which the proposition of the
forming' of such a societv should be submitted for their consid-
eration. She also suggested that a constitution and by-laws
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 65
should be drawn up in advance, to be acted upon and thus sa\'e
time in case the proposition was favorably considered.
Prior to that time two societies had been organized in
this county, viz.: "The Lucas County Pioneer Association,"
and "The Lucas County Veteran Association," in both of
which I was the historian, and in that capacity had been col-
lecting" the early and miUtary history of the county — it was a
very pleasant undertaking and I called a meeting of citizens
generally and sent personal invitations to some whom we
wished to enlist in the matter.
The meeting was called for the 10th of June, 1901. The
following persons appeared and took part in the meeting,
viz. : Mr. Smith H. Mallory, Mr. Thomas Gay, Mr. R. H.
Hasselquist, Mr. B. F. Bates, Mr. Warren S. Dungan, Mrs.
F. H. Boynton, Miss Margaret W. Brown and Miss Emma
McCormick. The meeting was temporarily organized b}^
selecting Mr. Thomas Gay as president, and Miss Brown as
secretary.
It was first unanimously resolved to organize a Lucas
Countv Historical Societv. A constitution and bv-laws, which
had been prepared in advance wei'e read for information, and
submitted for consideration. After careful consideration and
the adoption of amendments they were adopted. The consti-
tution adopted was brief, intended only for present use ; the
question of the incorporation of the society was considered,
but action was deferred for further consideration. This con-
stitution and by-laws Avere printed in cheap pamphlet form,
one of winch is attached to this brief historv of the societv.
The following officers were then elected for the ensuing
year: President, Warren S. Dungan ; vice-president, Thomas
Gay; secretary, Miss Effa M. Dungan; treasurer, Mr. B. F.
Bates; curator. Miss Margaret Brown; ^Ir. Smith H. ]\Ial-
lory, Mr. R. A. Hasselquist, Mrs. E. H. Boynton, Mrs. B. F.
VanDyke, directors.
The board of directors were impowered to appoint a cor-
responding secretary for each township. This was after-
wards changed and the organization of the township auxiliary
society in each township was provided for and such auxiliary
societies have been established, but not yet in them all. It
is made the duty of the township societies to secure as far as
possible the history of its own township. Wherever we have
secured officers who were interested in this matter in the
66 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
townships, we have secured the best results. To one person
is assigned the duty of writing the military history of his
township ; to another the religious and to another the educa-
tional and biography has received very zealous attention. In
one township the township's historian procured a large blank
book and went from house to house among the older families
and had quite a complete history of every family in the tovm-
ship.
Soon after our society came into existence the two exist-
ing societies, "The Old Settler's Association," and "The
Veteran Association," by vote became auxiliary to our society,
and agreed to file with our curator all historical matter col-
lected by each.
These hold annual meetings at which valuable papers are
read, and these and all their collections together with their
records, when completed are turned over to our society.
Our annual meetings are sometimes held in connection
with the Old Settler's Association, and sometimes we meet
alone.
While we have not yet published in book or even in pam-
phlet form the results of our labors, we have accumulated a
large amount of most interesting information. I contemplate
in the near future to publish the material portions of our col-
lection in pamphlet form, as suggested in Mr. Aldrich's letter
and as practised by the Jackson County Societ}^
At our June meeting in 1904 we received a communca-
tion from the Board of Trustees of the Chariton Free Library.
June 9, 1904.
Col. Warren S. Diuigan, President Lucas County Histori-
cal Society.
Dear Sir : Believing that the preservation of the historical
matter is of great importance in the development of our
county, and that the library should be the depository, the
trustees of the Chariton Library, desire to announce that a
room, in an unfurnished condition in the basement in the
new Carnegie Building has been set aside for the use of tlie
Historical. Society. In turning over the room our conditions
are, that all cases containing the valuable possessions of the
societv shall be locked, and that at such times as the room is
not in actual use by your organization for your meetings,
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 67
the library may make use of it, for such purposes as may be
deemed expedient by the trustee.
Very truly yours,
Thos. Gay,
President of the Board of Trustees.
Margaret Brown^
Curator.
You will notice we have a board of trustees, which is in
full sympathy with us. We have expended nearly one hun-
dred dollars in completing and fitting up our room, which,
when completed, will furnish us ample room for a number
of years without the cost of other renting or building for
ourselves.
The following are the officers of the society at the present :
Warren S. Dungan, president; Thomas Gay, vice-president;
Mrs. F. H. Boynton, secretary and treasurer ; Miss Margaret
W. Brown, curator ; Mr. T. M. Dunshee, Mr. E. Lewis, Mr. L.
Curtis, Mrs. J. M. Thayer and Miss Laura Fitch, directors.
We find the difficulties in the way of accomplishing much
to be that of enlisting workers in the cause. To induce those
who know the facts you want, require repeated solicitations.
Those are repeated many, many times, but a failure at last.
It is a labor of love, and few can be found to engage in it.
While we have not accomplished all we hoped, we have a very
considerable rich material laid away for future use ; we hope,
at our next annual meeting to take a forward step and provide
for the publication in pamphlet form of much of the materials
on hand.
While as the pioneer society we have not accomplished as
much as some of our sister societies, we do not envy them, but
with the determination of doing better in the future we bid
them God speed in the good work.
Warren S. Dungan.
Chariton, Iowa, April 29, 1907.
THE FIRST SETTLER IN LUCAS COUNTY
Among the papers and records of the Lucas County His-
torical Society we find the following papers which were col-
lected by Col. Warren S. Dungan, relating to the question as
to who was the first settler in Lucas countv, viz. Bearing
68 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
upou that question, I copy from Field Notes of the U. S. Sur-
vey in the county auditor's office as follows:
"There is a camp and the commencement of a house, on
the northwest quarter, section 14-73-22, occupied by Peter
N. Barker, date October 24th, 1847— page 188." "Tliere is a
house on the northeast quarter of section 11, occupied by
Daniel Barker, and a field on the southeast quarter, date
October 25, 1847 — page 183." "There is a small farm and
cabin on the east half of the northwest quarter of section 12,
occupied by John Ballard, November 6, 1847 — page 121."
This would indicate that Ballard was an earlier settler
than the Barkers. There were but twelve days between the
surveys. The Barkers had a "field"; Ballard had a "farm."
From the best information I have been able to obtain, the
Barkers were brothers, who came to Lucas county together.
It is likely that they worked together making improvements.
They were in adjoining sections. They first went into camp.
They would likely first put in a "field" of corn. Then go to
building. It seems they built a house for Daniel first, and at
the time of the survey they were engaged in building a home
for Peter N.
The recorder says : ' ' There is a camp and the commence-
ment of a house on the northwest quarter." The field on the
southeast quarter was about equally distant from the two
camps and was undoubtedly the most easily cultivated land
convenient to both.
Ballard had, as shown by the record, an improvement
which the surveyors dignified with the appellation "farm."
Outside this record the evidence is clear that Ballard was
the earlier settler.
The recollection of the late John S. Shellar, one of the old-
est settlers in this county (whose statement is contained in
my report for the year 1900) is almost conclusive on the sub-
ject. While that statement makes no allusion to the Barkers,
yet it must be remembered that Mr. Shellar was one of the
earliest settlers in the county ; that he first settled in what is
now Liberty township on the Whitebreast creek, in the imme-
diate vicinity of where the Barkers settled, and in the many
conversations I have had with him, he never intimated that
the Barkers might have been in the county as soon as Ballard.
Shellar was of the opinion that Ballard located or settled here
in the fall of 1846 or in the early spring of 1848 (1847). IVfr.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 69
IShellar settled in Liberty township in 1851, and the Barkers
were not there at that time. Mv best recollection is that he
never saw them nor did he know anything- about them.
Warrex S. Duxgax.
johx bai.laki), first settler
Statement of Mrs. Minerva Jacobs, daughter of Mr. John
Ballard, the first settler of Lucas county.
"Derby, loAva, June 15, A. D. 1905.
"I am the daughter of John Ballard. He moved to Ken-
tucky, and from there to near Quincy, Illinois, and from there
to Van Buren county, Iowa, in 1838. From there to Schuy-
ler county, Missouri, and from there to Appanoose county,
Iowa, where he settled at Dodge's Point about 1812. From
there he moved to Lucas coimty, Iowa, in 1846. In the spring
of 1817, my father and my brother John w^ent to Lucas county
and built a cabin on the east half of the northAvest quarter of
section 12, township 73, north of range 21, west 5th P. M.,
now called English township, and in August, 1816, he moved
his family to his new home in Lucas count3\
' ' I was born in Illinois, November 27, 1837, and was nearly
nine years old at the time we moved to that county. My
youngest sister, Sarah, was born July 19, 1816, after father's
return from Lucas county, and before we moved to that
county. I was married to Mr. Allen Jacobs in English town-
ship, Lucas county, Iowa, December 2, 1855, by John Ne\^"lnan,
Esq., who was afterwards elected to the office of county judge
of that county. I resided with my parents from the time of
my birth until that of my marriage to Mr. Jacobs.
"Mv father when he returned from Lucas countv, in the
spring of 1816, told us that he had built a home there and
plowed, or had broken a few acres and had planted it in corn.
When we moved there in August, 1846, we found it as he had
stated.
"My sister, Eliza, was married before I was, but she was
married in Marion county, Iowa.
"My father married Miss Hanna Clark, in east Tennessee.
Their children were: David, born in east Tennessee; Eliza,
born in east Tennessee ; John, born in Kentucky ; Ithema, born
in 1835, in Kentucky; George, born November 27, 1840, in
Missouri; James, born in east Tennessee; William, born in
70 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
east Tennessee ; Mary Ann, born in Kentucky ; Minerva, born
November 27, 1837, in Illinois ; Sarah, born July 16, 1846, in
Iowa.
"My husband and I resided in Lucas county, Iowa, from
the time of our marriage until 1861, when we moved to Repub-
lic county, Kansas, and from there we returned to Iowa, set-
tling in Appanoose county for several years, and then we
moved back to Kansas, where, we now reside. Our postoffice
is Athol.
' ' The first school I attended while we lived in Lucas county,
was across the line in Marion county, and was taught by Miss
Mary Crawley, a sister of David Crawley, who still resides in
Lucas countv. I never attended school in Lucas countv. I
have no recollection of any school being taught in that county
until after my marriage.
''I remember that the Rev. Hiram Moon preached at my
father's cabin built on section 12, but I cannot sav what vear.
''About 1851 father moved north and settled on section 1,
in the same township, and stayed there but a few years and
then moved to Decatur county, and from there to southern
Kansas, where he died about 1859.
''I make this statement in the interest of the true history
of Lucas county. M}^ father often told us that he was the first
settler in Lucas countv.
"(Signed) Minerva Jacobs.
"Waeeen S. Dungan,
"VoLNA G. Jacobs,
"Witnesses/'
THE FIRST TRIAL JURY
The first petit or trial jury ever drawn in the county was
summoned for the second term of the District court, and was
composed of the following persons : J. A. Allen, Aaron Scott,
Wilson Allison, James Jenkins, Jess Walker, John Thacker,
Eben Badger, George Cain, C. Rankin, Moses F. Henry, James
Mitchell, James G. Robinson. However, the court record does
not show that their services were required during the term, as
the business appears to have been transacted by the court
alone.
The next case disposed of at this term was an appeal case
from a justice of the peace. It was that of Richard Bvrd
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 71
against Samuel Larimer, involving a claim of $15.85, for which
jaidgment was entered for the plaintiff. And also another
appeal case, being that of Thomas Wilson against Richard
Byrd, in which judgment was also entered in favor of the
plaintiff for said sum of $15.75.
During the two terms of court. May, 1851, and May, 1852,
there appears to have been very little business, other than
small appeal cases and divorce suits. Samuel Payne applied
for a divorce from his wife, Julia Ann Payne, who came with
him to this new country at an early day. A decree was entered,
as praj^ed for, by the fair Julia Ann, and she was restored to
her maiden name, and all the rights and privileges of an
unmarried woman. It was further ordered that the said Sam-
uel pay to the attorney of his wife, one William H. Brunfield,
the sum of $12.50 as his attorney fee for defending her rights
in said case, but Samuel was given six months to pay said
attorney fee.
The record further recites that no disposition is made of
the property of the parties, biit it leaves that matter to be set-
tled between them by themselves. The probability is that it
would require another law suit to finally settle that matter, if
the property was worth a law suit.
The large number of divorces that are now granted by the
courts at each term thereof will certainlv result in more strin-
gent laws regulating divorces, especially when they both desire
a divorce. It would seem that when a man and woman cannot
live happily together the}^ should be divorced, but on the other
hand, if the law be such that either party can go into the courts
and obtain a divorce on the slightest causes therefor, then it
would seem that the law would encourage men and women to
separate and apply for a divorce for trivial reasons, thus
creating a feeling of disrespect for the marriage relation, and
erroneous ideas of the obligation of the marriage contract. Per-
haps there is a medium ground for the exercise of this power
bv the courts between theories of the Catholic church and the
modern views of this question. It is a well-known doctrine
or rule of the Catholic church that courts should not be given
the right or power to annul the marriage relation. No matter
what the cause of complaint may be, the Catholic church claims
that the sanctity of this relation should not be disturbed or
annuled by the decree of any human tribunal. That it is bet-
ter for society and for children that the parties endure a
72 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
wrong, than it would be to open the doors of our courts to the
married man or woman who perhaps for some fancied wrong
or injury, would break down the sanctity of this relation and
permit the parties thereto to be released therefrom.
However, a few days attendance at the trials of divorce
cases would seem to be sufficient to satisfy any person that
there are numerous cases where, to refuse the applicant a
divorce and release him or her, would amount to a i^osi-
tive wrong. For instance, however increditable it may
appear, there are cases and comparativeh' a good many of
them, where drunken husbands demand and expect that their
wives shall maintain them, and upon her refusal to turn over to
the husband all of the money she has earned by her own labor,
he has claimed and has undertaken to exercise the right to
beat and abuse her; to say that women under such circum-
stances ought to suffer such wrong, rather than countenance
the practice of obtaining a divorce, seems foolish. Such
cases exist and for a woman to apply and obtain a divorce
under such circumstances is nothing more than to exercise
her natural right of self defense and a failure to do so would
be a positive wrong.
FIR8T
It sometimes happens that ordinary events or occurrences
become interesting or imxjortant from the fact alone that they
are the first of their kind or chai'acter, and ambitious per-
sons often deem it an honor to be the first in any reputable
enterprise or occurrence. As, for instance, in the early days
of Chariton a fire occurred, whereby two of the principal
stores of the town were destroyed. The tire became the talk
of the community. Every phase of it Avas detailed the next
day, and a certain doctor, who loved a joke as well as Abraham
Lincoln did. said that not less than a dozen men had declared
to him that they were the first to discover the fire. But now
as to the historical "first." It is claimed that John Ballard
was the first settler in Lucas county. He settled in what has
since been known as English township. The first marriage
license was issued to Samuel A. Francis and Lousa J. Way-
nick, on the 10th day of November, 1849. James Peck was
the first justice of the peace appointed in the county. The
first warrantv deed issued in the coimtv was a deed from
.\il:thoi)ist p:pi8copal ciiurch. ri'ssell
■^^-'
-■-?. >
f"
T^^ar-
T
NORTH SIDE OF MAIN STREET, RUSSELL
_-=l
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 75
Hugh W. Sample and wife to Jolm Howard of Jefferson
county, for 320 acres of land in Chariton township for the
consideration of $350, and it was dated November 29, 1849.
The first mortgage was given b}^ Thomas Nelson to Seth Rich-
ards on the 5th day of November, 1849. Anna Arnold i:)ro-
cured the first divorce. The first quit claim deed executed in
the county was given by George Temple to Luther Holbrook,
November 1, 1851. The first census was taken by D. D. Way-
nick in 1851. The first public highway was laid out and
established in September, 1849, in Cedar township. William
McKay of ''Fort Des Moines," was the first district judge
who ever presided over the courts of Lucas county. The first
mortgage executed in Lucas county was made by Thomas Wil-
son, a pioneer, and member of the board of county commis-
sioners in 1850, to Seth Richards, to secure the pajnuent of
money to the latter. It was acknowledged before James
Baker, a notary public, and was given to secure the sum of
$600, to be paid at Ottumwa, November 2, 1850. The first
quit claim deed executed and recorded in Lucas county, was
made by George D. Temple. The following is a copy thereof
to wit: "For the consideration of $170, I hereby quit claim
to Luther Holbrook, of Lucas county, and state of Iowa, all
of my interest in the following described land. Describing it.
(Signed) George D. Temple."
This is quite a brief instrument, but it was sufficient. It
was acknowledged before a notary public of Jefferson comity,
Iowa, on the first day of November, 1851.
the first census
The first census of Lucas county was taken by D. D. Way-
nick, a county assessor. It was taken in August, 1851. The
following is a copy of Mr. Waynick's account for his services,
viz. :
Chariton, August 1, 1851.
Lucas county to 1). D. Waynick, Dr., to taking-
census.
1st to services in Lucas county $ 4.00
2nd to services in Clark county 8.00
3rd to making and returning list 1.00
Total $13.00
76 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
This account was verified as follows:
State of Iowa J
ss
Lucas County. J
I do solemnly swear that the above account is just, and that
the amount of services stated in said account is correct, and
that there has been nothing paid on same.
(Signed) D. D. Waynick.
Stvorn to and subscribed this 3d day of November, 1851,
Jonas Wescott, county judge.
It is noticeable that the writings attending the transaction
of business at this time, although brief, were formal, and in
good shape. D. D. Waynick, wdio was among the tirst set-
tlers, had some experience in business matters, and his general
knowledge of the manner in which the business of the public
should be kept, rendered him a very useful member of the
community. He was a consistent member of the Methodist
church, and for many years he conducted its business and in
fact had general charge thereof. He was a good singer and
took delight in organizing and conducting a choir for this
church. The last fifteen years of his life, he was engaged in
the mercantile business. At that time the most of the goods
were sold on a vear's time, that is, the farmers would usually
come in once a year, being about the holiday time, and "settle
up," as they called it, by either paying up in cash, or by
gi\ing their notes, but usually at that time of the year farm-
ers would have money to pay their debts, and notwithstanding
the great majority of the business was done on time, yet mer-
chants lost but very little. If they sold goods on credit at
this time as they did in the early history of the coimty, nine-
tenths of them would soon become bankrupt. As a general
rule, at that time, accounts would be promptly paid, or at
least, they were paid once a year, Init if credit was extended
today as it was at that time, a majority of the accounts would
not be collectable.
At the time of the death of D. D. Waynick, he had due
him accounts for goods sold about $15,000, and the final report
of his administrator shows that he collected about all of this
sum. Very few accounts proved to be uncollectable. At that
time merchants not only sold their goods on long time, but
they bought goods on long time, and the failure of the smaller
merchants occurred quite frequently. The drummer, or tra-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 77
veling salesman also acted as collector for his firm and had a
great deal to do in deciding whether or not it was safe to
extend credit to the retail dealer. He traveled over the coun-
try, and it became a part of his business to keep posted as to
the financial standing of his patrons. He would occasion-
ally ask his customers to give him a written statement of their
property and financial ability.
OFFICIAL SALARIES
It is interesting to note the salaries that were i)aid to
countv officers in earlv davs of the countv's historv. The fol-
lowing is a copy of a quarterly statement of salaries paid in
1851. It recites that, We, Jonas Wescott, county judge,
William C. Drake, county clerk, Samuel W. Walthawl, county
treasurer, in quarterly accounting together, find that the
money received by us as our legal fees for the quarter ending
November 5, 1851, amounts to $12, or $4 each, leaving a bal-
ance due us of our legal quarterly salary of $16; the amount
of each of our said salaries being $50 per quarter, according
to the census returns of the year 1851. And, in consideration
of the premises it is therefore ordered by the county court,
that the said officers receive the simis set opposite their respec-
tive names, for services as officers aforesaid, for the quarter'
ending November 5, 1851.
Jonas Wescott, judge $16.00
William C. Drake, clerk 16.00
Samuel W. Walthawl, treasurer 16.00
Our present clerk receives a salary of about twelve hundred
dollars, and our present treasurer also receives about the
same, and they are each entitled to a deputy.
WILLIAM McDERMIT
A native of the Emerald Isle, settled in what has since
been known as Cedar township, about September, 1816. It
has been stated that he was the first settler in the county, but
it is a debatable question whether he, or John Ballard, a set-
tler in English township, were first. They came about the
same time, "Sir. McDermit being an Irishman, his place was
called Ireland, and a Ceinian bavins^ settled a few miles from
78 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
liim in the same township, his location was called Germany,
and those localities still retain said names.
Mr. McDermit, although uneducated, was a man of strong
common sense, and he took an active part in all movements to
develop the county and benetlt the settlers.
The Urst election of county officers was held at his resi-
dence. His hrst home in Iowa was at the German town of
Pella in Marion county, but as he said, "the Dutch crowded
him out," he sold his claim there for $1,000, and came to Lucas
county. In 1847, with the assistance of Henry Harter, John
Bell and Charles Reynolds of Monroe county, he built a cabin
on his claim in Cedar township, Lucas county. It was built
of logs, and was sixteen feet square. Having provided this
home for his wife and cliildren, he went to Oskaloosa, some
forty-five miles distant, to purchase supplies for the winter.
He was gone ten days, and during this time Mrs. McDermit,
with her four children, the eldest being nine years old, re-
mained at their cabin home. As yet there were no doors or
windows in this ca])in. At this time there was a band of
Pottawattamie Indians encamped on Cedar creek, within a
few miles of her cabin, but thev were friendlv and did not
molest her. They procured most of their provisions for their
first winter in Monroe county.
Mr. McDermit was a radical democrat ; although unedu-
cated, not being able to write his own name, he took an active
part in political matters, and in the conduct of the business
of the county. In April, 1851, he was elected as one of the
trustees of the township, and at the August election in 1852.
he was elected prosecuting attorney of the county over James
Mitchell, the whig candidate, by a large majorit.y, but, having
failed to qualify, the office was filled by appointment.
In 1848 many new settlers came. Elijah Baldwin and
his family, of Indiana, settled about a mile from McDermit 's
home. Wyatt, Iverson, and D. D. Waynick came this year
from Indiana. The winter of 1848 was very cold, and feed
was scarce, and some of the settlers drove their stock to Mon-
roe county where they could procure feed for them, to pre-
vent them from starving.
The Waynicks afterwards removed to Chariton, where
they took an active part in building up the town, and lived
there the remainder of their lives. James Roland, who came
here with the Waynick brothers, procured lands about two
PAST AND PKESEXT OF LUCAS COUNTY 79
miles from the ranch of Wm. McDermit, where he and his
family lived until about the vear 1875.
During the year 1848 quite a number of emigrants set-
tled at different points in the county. A Mr. Townsend set-
tled about one and one-half miles southeast of Charit(m on
the lands which had been formerly occupied by the Monnons.
The deyeloimient of the county was too slow for Mr. Town-
send. He seems to have been an active, enterprising man,
who came here with the idea that he would here find oppor-
timities for speculation. He kept a hotel at his ranch south-
east of Chariton, and undertook to acquire the title to the
lands whereon the county seat would be located. His scheme
was, after giving the county authorities sufficient lots for the
use of county buildings, to obtain a monopoly of the sale of
town lots, fixing thereon such prices as he might deem best
for his own interests. In this he failed, and as his schemes
for speculation vanished, he became disgusted with the
prosj)ects and went West. In this same year a settlement
was made in the east part of Washington township by Sam-
uel McKimey and Zura West, and James M. Brown, Peter
Barker, Wm. R. Myers, and R. Robbins settled in what has
since been known as Liberty township. In this same year,
1848, Daniel Phillips settled in Whitebreast township, and
James B. Custer located in Liberty township.
In 1849 quite a number of new settlers located at different
points in the county, including S. B. Chapman, Jacob Fudge,
Hiram and Joseph Holmes, of Union township. Nelson
Case, of Otter Creek township, and Joseph IMundell. Isham
Hodgen and Joseph Stewart, of Jackson township, also came
this year.
Over 15,000 acres of land in Lucas county was entei'ed in
the years of 1848, 1849, but 12.000 of this land was entered by
one man, Samuel Fowler, of New Orleans. A large portion
of the land entered by Mr. Fowler was timber lands. These
lands were partitioned between the heirs of Mr. Fowler, by
the district court of Lucas countv, about the vear of 1868 or
1869.
Address Delivered hy Br. T. M. ThrorJiWortou at tlie Old
Settlers' Bcuiriou, Chariton, Iowa, September 24, 1007.
"In the month of March, 1856, a four-horse wagon fol-
lowed by a single team was seen winding down a steep hill in
80 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
western Pennsylvania, and entering a fork on Wheeling
Creek, followed the stream for several miles, the water aver-
aging in depth about one foot ; finally the teams emerged from
the stream and commenced the ascent of a steep hill. After
one wagon had arrived at the top a team was unhitched and
brought back to help the other wagon up; after frequent
struggliag up steep hills and mirey places the emigrants
arrived at the wharf in Wheeling, Virginia, and took pas-
sage on the steamboat 'Lady Bell,' down the Ohio river
for that far away countr}^ called I-O-A.
"After several days teaming down the Ohio to its mouth,
then up the mighty Mississippi, they came to a very small
town known as 'Key-Kirk' — now it is Keokuk. There these
emigrants landed; the wife and three children took the stage
for Chariton, while the father loaded in his wagon as many
household goods as his team could well haul, leaving the rest
in storage, and followed his family. By the way, he never
got half his goods on returning to Keokuk, for they had been
appropriated by other needy emigrants.
"The stage coach arrived in Chariton about noon, April
16, 1856, when I, a small lad, was introduced to this towm —
or rather the town to me. My father, John Throckmorton,
first came to Chariton in the fall of 1854, when this town was
a land office, and entered several sections of land for himself
and friends in Warren and Union townships. He returned
in the spring of 1855 in company with his brother Morford
and my mother's brother, Michael C. Lazear, and built what
is known as a hewed double log house. It was a monstrous
affair for this country; there were two rooms downstaii's,
each 14x16 feet; the same size upstairs, only the ceiling was
not so high; the roof was rived oak shingles. He broke out
and planted sixty acres of corn, returning to Pennsylvania in
the fall after his family ; the trip I have already described.
"This winter of 1855-56 is said to be by the old settlers
one of the severest known in Iowa history. My mother was
met in Chariton bv her brother, whom she had not seen for over
a year, who took us in a stiff tongue wagon with a scoop bed,
all over. You old fellows from Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania,
and Virginia know all aljout a linch pin, stilf tongue, tar
bucket, trace chain, sole leather ])ack bands, belly bands,
breeching hamstrings, rope lines, and hickory withs — don't
you? (Will digress a minute, and say, that the breeching was
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 81
soon discarded as a necessity in this level country, but was
very useful in after years in v^eighing hogs with the steel-
yard.) Well, that's the kind of a rig that met my mother
and her children at this place that bahny, sunny spring day
and took us to my uncle Morford Throckmorton's, the place
now adjoining the town of Derby.
*'We arrived there long before dark. He lived in a log
house, 14x14, puncheon door and puncheon floor, that is,
boards split out and hewed with a broad axe ; the clajDboai'd
roof held on by logs — you old fellows know what I am talk-
ing about ! — We had supper of mush and milk, and then the
cousins and we young ones w^ent out and rode the wagon
tongue after which we were called in and the trundle-bed
hauled out — the kids nowadays know nothing about a trun-
dle-bed, or a stiff tongue wagon and its wonderful hammer.
Say, you young kids back there, aged about sixty to eighty
years, where is that wagon hanmier? What did you do with
it? Your dad hitched up old '^like and Doll' to go to the tim-
ber and he can't find that wagon hammer! ! You all have had
your jackets well tanned for swiping that hammer. Well, we
all slept in that one room, and there was plenty of room to
spare.
"The next day my uncle took us over to our own house,
the two-story, double log house with a ladder for stairs. A
family by the name of Westfall was then living in it, and well
do I remember a fat, rosy-cheeked, black-eyed girl, Velossa
Virginia Westfall, who afterwards married a former towns-
man and old soldier, William Monroe Fisher, who has an-
swered the roll call about a year ago. He had a blacksmith
shop in a rail pen when he first came to low^a.
"The cabin on the north was occupied by William Cow-
den. Just east on Chariton Creek and adjoining Cowden's
was Alexander McMann's; no more hospitable people or bet-
ter neighbors ever came to Lucas county than they. The old
people have long since passed away. Alfred, deceased, was
countv recorder. Lerov, known as 'Rov' or 'Mac,' was auc-
tioneer of no little renown; he, too, has passed away. His
wife, 'Aunt Polly,' lives in our city; and Miss Kate, a daugh-
ter, who married James Burley, an old pioneer, he, too, is
gone. (Privately, some of you here have heard Wm. Bur-
ley's story of going to mill — three months — yes, three months
going to mill!)
Vol. 1—5
82 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
"John Harper, hunter and trapper, dug more wells than
any other man in his dav. Conrod Fisher, called 'Coon,' was
snake bitten one morning when he went out to shoot a crow,
which had been trespassing on his garden. As he kneeled
down in a fence corner to keep himself from being discov-
ered by that wary bird, he felt what he supposed to be a thorn ;
keeping his eye on the bird and putting his hand down to
remove the cause, he received a sting on the back of the hand.
Looking down he beheld to his horror a large rattle snake.
He shot the head off the ^rattler,' and returning to his house,
Granny Sackett, a neighbor woman, who had quite a reputa-
tion as a doctor in various ailments, applied gunpowder ex-
ternally to the wound and a liberal amount of whiskey inter-
nally. 'Coon' grew worse, his limbs and body became enor-
mously swollen, and on the second or third day a profuse and
alarming hemorrhage from the nose set in which completely
demoralized Granny Sackett. Dr. Chas. Fitch was then sent
for, who staunched the hemorrhage and gave the necessary
treatment and saved the life of Conrod Fisher. This staunch-
ing of hemorrhage from the nose is quite a surgical procedure,
and few doctors have done it or even seen it done.
"It is with profoundest respect that I recall the name of
Doctor Fitch. To mv mind, no other man who lived in Lucas
county did more for the early settlers of this and adjoining-
counties, than did Doctor Fitch. Long roads, dark nights,
through storms without a guide, an obscure trail, no bridges,
only the sky and boundless prairies around him, the doctor
traveled ; many times not arriving on account of the distance
to travel or the loss of the trail, luitil the patient was dead.
Doctor Fitch was a character, his personality was his own.
A man physically well develoi:»ed, with an acute inquiring
mind, keen intellect, not sluggish or lazy; endowed with a
natural ability to see into the complex workings of the most
wonderful handiwork of God — the human bodv ; and to
interpret its ills. A man, in my opinion, who has never yet
had a superior or equal in medical science in Lucas or the
adjoining counties thereof. He could not tolerate a pre-
tender or sham. I made his acquaintance over thirty years
ago as a medical brother, and T know whereof I speak — that
he was always ready to respond to ailing humanity, no dif-
ference how far the distance, or condition of roads or that
of the weather. Rich or poor, the doctor went the same. Doc-
PAST AND PRESENT OB^ LUCAS COUNTY 83
tors of the past thirty years know notliing- of the hardships as
compared witli those of the time of Doctor Fitch.
''Dr. D. Y. Collins was another pioneer. He pulled my
hrst tooth, and clipped my tongne, as my mother thought it
would make me eloquent in aftei- years. The operation was
a complete failure, and a disappointment to my mother, but
in the words (jf 'Happy Hooligan,' 'If me moither could only
see me now.'
"Adam Fudge, or Fodge, settled in the timber on the
Chariton River ; also John Connor and Monroe Dooly. Jacob
Tayloi" came in 1852 and settled on what is known as the
'Old Monroe Trail,' or 'Trace road,' along with the play-
mates, Charles and Hamria Brothers, Joseph Mundell, Al-
fred Connor, Simeon and Boynton Chaptman — brothers, and
])oth noted tiddlers. Mathew Irwin, whose sons, Jackson and
Guy, are now living on the old homestead.
"Jack tells a story of starvation — living three weeks on
l^umpkins while his father went to mill.
"James and Andrew Leech, America Risher, John Loper,
Abner Fuller, James Roach, Stephen Law, known as Captain
Law; Milton Williams, John Hollingsw^orth, Alonzo Wil-
liams — say, have you seen an erect sprightly, boyish-looking,
little man on our streets? AVell, that is Alonzo — Granville
Wesfall, Mark Mabry, Amos and Abraham Sayer, William
Sanders, Peter Winegar, who built a mill ; Martin Hood, Wil-
liam T. Wade, who built the old courthouse; Isaiah Robinson
and Ann Robinson, my first school teacher, who afterward
married William McKnight; all these were settlers in Union
township.
"The names of Rains, Ballinger, Shamberg, Ezra, Hip-
sher, Hai'rison, Bawles, Benjamin Garfield and Jacob Rhodes
are familiar. The homes of James Gilmore, a Kentuckian,
whose wife taught school ; of John Murray, deceased, his
widoAv still lives in Chariton, and of Charles Oehlman were
good places for a bo}^ to go ; they always gave him something
to eat.
"David Mercer, located on the Creek, east of Elex Mc-
Main's, was an early settler and always opened his home to
preachers. His wife, whom ever}^ one called Aunt Katie, was
a sister of Eli Kammers, who recently died at Russell, Iowa.
"Would time permit, I could name many more who were
]^ioneers in the true sense of the word. One name now I wish
84 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
to mention, Henry Finlay, when last heard of he was in Cali-
fornia. He came from Ohio with his young wife, who lived
with us while they built a house in the iDrairie just west of
Derby. She died within the year, and now is sleeping with
her young babe in the Chariton cemetery. Perhaps you have
noticed the lone grave with an iron fence about it in the north-
west corner of the cemetery, well, that is Mrs. Finlay 's grave
— the woman who was so cheerful, so kind to my mother, and
won my boyish heart. She peacefully rests there — a martyr
to the new country, waiting the resurrection and the gather-
ing home of friends from far and near — yes — from the re-
motest parts of the earth.
"The last few years have claimed many of these old pio-
neers, perhaps before another Iowa winter has passed many
more will be taken.
"Ijct us honor these men and women of the earlier davs,
who just as truly fought hard-won battles in conquering a
new country as did those who are to meet tomorrow the de-
fenders of our country and our flag. These two, early pio-
neers and old soldiers, equally share our i^rofoundest respect
and homage."
LAND AGENTS
In 1850 the government land office was removed from
Fairfield, Iowa, to Chariton, and Robert Coles, a Methodist
minister, was appointed register of this office. Mr. Coles was
a Jackson democrat, and a j^i'eacher of more than ordinary
ability. His services were secured at many camp meetings
that were held in southern Iowa. With this office came a num-
ber of men who made small fortunes as land agents. They
became thoroughly acquainted with the lands in southern Iowa,
and they were employed by numerous persons to assist them
in selecting and entering lands. While as a general rule
the}^ were reliable and did good service in assisting specu-
lators, as this class was called, in locating land warrants,
yet some of them were wholly unreliable, and they did. in
fact, cheat and defraud their patrons by deceiving them as
to the correct description of the land they purchased. Money
was scarce, and in order to obtain it for use in entering lands,
men would and did pay as high as fifty per cent interest for it.
PAST AND PRP:SENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 85
There were then no usurv laws in the state of Iowa, and in
numerous instances, men made large profits by paying this
high rate of interest for money to invest in lands, and then
selling the lands at from $2 to $5 per acre.
Thev could ol:>tain the title to a choice tract of land at a
cost of $1.25 per acre for it, and then, perhaps the next day,
sell it for $5 per acre. There was a tract of beautiful laud
lying southwest of Chariton, at a place then called Hickory
Point, and the storv was told that at least one-half dozen land
speculators left Chariton with the full belief that they had
entered and were the owners of this tract of land. Feeling
grateful to the agent who had obtained this land for them,
although they had to pay quite a large fee for his services,
after paying taxes on this land for several years they awak-
ened to the fact that their land was located in another town-
ship from what they supposed it was.
A STEEET RAILWAY
The city records show that in 1881 a corporation w^as organ-
ized to build a street railway on some of the principal streets
of the town of Chariton. The following are the names of the
incorporators, to wit: B. F. Bates, Jacob Yengel, W. W.
Miller, B. F. Murphy, E. B. Woodward, W. F. Hatcher, H.
S. Glenn, L. F. Maple, S. B. St. John, A. E. Dent.
In view of the fact that none of these parties would likely
engage in such an enterprise, and the further fact that such
a road if built would not pay, but that all moneys invested
therein would be lost, it is difficult to believe that said parties
were in earnest In other words, it appears to have been in-
tended as a huge joke. It seems to be a well known fact that a
street railway or an opera house in a town or city of less than
25,000 people will not pay.
The city records are full of franchises granted to individ-
uals and comj)anies to construct and operate electric light and
water jDlants. The schemes of such parties were to interest
some capitalists to furnish the money required to start the
same and make some monev in the transaction.
At one time it was thought that the party to whom such
a paper franchise had been granted had actually succeeded
in securing the financial aid required to start the enterprise,
from some St. Louis capitalists, but this proved to be a mis-
take. Like all of these paper franchises it failed to develop.
86 PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
However, it is now thought by some parties that a street
railway from the C. B. & Q. R. R. depot, in the western part
of the city, to the depot of the St. Paul & Kansas City Short
Line Railroad Company's, in the eastern part of the city,
would pay. One thing is sure, the city council would grant
a liberal franchise to smj responsible person who desired to
invest some money in such an enterprise.
POLITICAL RECORD OF LUCAS COUNTY
The first election held in the county was on August 6,
1849, and the next election was held in April, 1851. At the
August election the following jDersons were elected as countv
commissioners, viz.: Jacob Phillips, William T. May, and
James G. Robinson. James M. Brown was elected clerk of
the board of commissioners, and William S. Townsend was
elected clerk of the district court; John McMains, sheriff;
Samuel McKinley, recorder and treasurer, and J. H. Way-
nick, county surveyor, and James Peck, and Elijah K. Rob-
inson, justices of the peace. The first coroner was elected at
the August election held in 1853.
The first presidential cami^aign in which the people of
Lucas county participated was that of 1852, in which the
candidates were Winfield Scott, of the whig party, and
Franklin Pierce, of the democratic party. There were 165
votes cast at that election. The democratic candidate re-
ceived 85 votes, and the whig candidate received 80 votes.
This vote shows that the parties were tlien al)out equally
divided. However, the county, like the state, had been thor-
oughl_v democratic up to 1851, when James W. Grimes, a
whig, was elected governor by a majority of about five thou-
sand votes over Curtis Bates, the democratic candidate.
At the next presidential election in 1856 there were cast
819 votes. The Buchanan electors received 355 votes; the.
Freemont electors received 288 votes, and the Fillmor elect-
ors received 176 votes.
At the ratio of five in a family to each voter, the popu-
lation of the coimty would then be 3,270. The next year, 1857,
Lucas county gave her first republican majority. From that
time the republicans have had a majority of the voters in the
coimtv, ranuiuii" from 100 to 400 votes.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 87
At the last election, in 3912, Mr. Wilson, the democratic
candidate, received 963 votes, and Tlieodore Roosevelt re-
ceived 845 votes, and the regidar republican candidate
received 939 votes.
Notwithstanding the republican party for the last twenty-
live years has had a majority of at least 250 votes, yet during
this time democrats have held the county offices about one-
half of the time, which shows that the repiiblican party is
not hide bound in Lucas count v.
THE WAR RECORD OF LUCAS COUNTY
Lucas county may well feel proud of her war record.
She prompth^ responded to every call that was made upon
her for soldiers, and many of these soldiers were among the
best citizens of the county, such men as Warren S. Dungan,
N. B. Gardner, J. D. Sarver, O. L. Palmer, Daniel Iseminiger,
Eugene Edwards, W. H. Gibbon, and many others who could
have filled important positions in civil life with honor to
themselves and credit to their countrv.
General Lee, and many prominent rebels, who professed
to have been opposed to the war in the beginning, when asked
why they afterwards concluded to cast their fortunes with
the rebels, ^universally answered that the reason for such
action on their part was that Mr. Lincoln called out 75,000
soldiers to invade the South. Now suppose that we state the
same proposition in different words. That is, "Mr. Lincoln
called out 75,000 soldiers to enforce the law of the govern-
ment;" or, that "Mr. Lincoln called out 75,000 soldiers to
protect the property of the government, which was being
destroyed by a mob."
Thus it seems that the excuse offered by this class of per-
sons above mentioned is very thin; in fact, there is no com-
mon sense or honesty in it, and it seems passing strange that
such men as Robert E. Lee would offer it. When the South
organized a force to attack and destroy Fort Sumpter, what
else could Mr. Lincoln do but to call out a force to protect
Fort Sumpter '? This was his sworn duty, and if he had failed
to do this duty he would have found his name recorded in
historv as either an enemv of his countrv or a man wliollv
unfitted to perform the duties of the position he occupied.
88 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Fortunately for the country, Abraham Lincoln proved to
be a man eminently iitted for the task of crushing the greatest
rebellion known to history, and ijreserving the union of the
states under the best government devised by man.
The following is a copy of Mr. Lincoln's memorable call
for soldiers to suppress mobs, and enforce the laws of the
Ignited States:
"Whereas, the laws of the United States have been, and
now are, opposed in several states by combinations too power-
ful to be suppressed in an ordinary way, I therefore call for
the militia of the several state of the Union to the aggregate
number of 75,000, to suppress said combinations and execute
the laws. I appeal to all loyal citizens for state aid in this
effort to maintain the laws, integrity, national union, per-
petuity of i3opular government, and redress wrongs long
enough endured.
"The first service assigned forces will probably be to re-
possess forts, places and property which have been seized
from the Union. The utmost care should be taken consistent
with our object to avoid devastation, destruction, and inter-
ference with the property of peacefid citizens in any part of
the country; and I hereby command persons composing the
aforesaid combinations to disperse within twenty days from
date. I hereby convene both houses of congiTSS for the -tth
day of July next, to determine upon measures for the public
safety as its interests may demand.
"(Signed) Abkaham Lincoln,
''President of the United States.
"By W. H. Seward, Secretary of State/'
In pursuance of this call made by President Lincoln for
75,000 soldiers, Samuel J. Kirkwood, the great war governor
of Iowa, promptly issued the following
Proclamation
"Whereas, the President of the United States has made
a requisition upon the executive of the State of Iowa for one
regiment of militia to aid the Federal Government in enforc-
ing its laws and su]3pressing rebellion, now, therefore, I,
Samuel J. Kirkwood, governor of the state of Iowa, do issue
this proclamation, and hereby call upon the militia of this
state immediately to form in the different counties volun-
PAiST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 89
teer companies, with a view of entering the active military
service of the United States, for the purpose aforesaid.
''The regiment at present required will consist of ten com-
panies of at least seventy-eight men each, including one cap-
tain and two lieutenants to be elected by each company.
''Under the present requisition, only one regiment can be
accepted and the companies accepted must hold themselves
in readiness for dutv bv the 20th of March next at the fur-
thest. If a sufficient number of companies are tendered, their
services may be required. If more companies are formed
and reported than can be received imder the present call, their
services will be required in the event of another requisition
upon the state.
"The nation is in peril. A fear fid attempt is being made
to overthrow the Constitution and dissever the Union. The
aid of every loyal citizen is invoked to sustain the general
government. For the honor of our state, let the requirement
of the President be cheerfully and promptly met.
"Samuel J. Kirkwood.
"Iowa City, April 17, 1861."
OTHER CALLS
Afterwards other calls for soldiers were made bv the
President, and in response to such calls Lucas county fur-
nished the following list of soldiers, to wit :
Staff of Commander-iyi-Cliief — John Edwards of Chari-
ton, aide-de-camp to Governor Kirkwood, June 9, 1861. Com-
missioned June 9, 1861 ; resigned June 20, 1862.
Fourth Infantry
Private — Wm. F. Marton, company unknown.
Sixth Infantry
Field and Staff — Emmet B. Woodward, adjutant, commis-
sioned, July — , 1861, from first lieutenant. Company B; re-
signed as adjutant November 17, 1861 ; returned to Com-
pany B.
Anderson Cameron, Chariton, enlisted July 1, 1861 ; pro-
moted to quartermaster-sergeant, from sixth corporal ; dis-
charged for disability September 26, 1862.
Company A
Eugene E. Edwards, Chariton, first lieutenant. Company
A, enlisted July 1, 1861 ; promoted to second lieutenant,
90 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Company B, April 7, 1862. Privates Henry I. Cameron,
musician, enlisted July 1, 1861; discharged for disability at
St. Louis, January 21, 1862; Cleorge R. Watson, Lagrange,
enlisted Julv 1, 1861.
Company B
Daniel Isminger, captain, mustered into service May 3,
1861, killed at Shiloli, April 6, 1862. E. B. Woodward, cap-
tain, commissioned April 7, 1862, from first lieutenant.
David J. McCoy enlisted July 1, 1861; promoted from first
sergeant to second lieutenant. Joseph Best enlisted July 1,
1861. Fourth corporal Graham Rony Wagoner, enlisted
July 1, 1861, died at St. Louis, December 20, 1861.
Privates — James R. Baldwin, John Bell, John W. Boyce,
John Boyd, A. N. Calahan, John W. Dodge, Abraham Ellis,
Jno. S. Musselman, Oliver B. Miller, Jno. A. Miller, Abraham
W. Morris, William Monahan, David Mauer, Jno. M. Rob-
erts, Marcus Edwards, Harvey Ford, Lambert B. Gardner,
Monroe Hardin, James M. Langholm, Noah M. Larimer,
Joseph C. McPheeters, James Rariden, Jno. Ralph, James
R. Smith, William Shuts, James H. Spurling, William D.
Tull, George F. Holmes, Aaron Vanscoy.
Seventh Infantry, Company F
Privates — Jno. P. AVilleby, James H. Weaver, Joseph
Winneger.
Company H
Joseph Gerthoffer, Thomas Bartlett, Allen Duprey.
Eighteenth Infantry, Company I
Jonathan C. Paine, promoted to second corporal, taken
prisoner at Sliiloh, April 6, 1862. John C. White, corporal,
enlisted August 10, 1861.
Privates — Henry Applegate, Henderson Applegate, John
W. Badger, Samuel R. Boyce, Thomas R. Shannon, James
A. Coluer, Comodore Norris, Lott Reddinschaifer, James M.
Rhea, Wm. M. Turner.
Thirteenth Infantry, Company C
James Baker, captain, commissioned October 28, 1861.
Resigned, ill health, June 20, 1862. Simon P. P. Young, first
lieutenant, commissioned May 28, 1861. Promoted to cap-
tain June 21, 1862. Albert Coles, commissioned second
lieutenant, October 28, 1861. Promoted to first lieutenant
June 21, 1862. Wesley Huff, commissioned second lieuten-
ant, June 21, 1862, from fourth sergeant, and promoted to
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 91
first lieutenant December 30, 1862. Jacob Swank, commis-
sioned second lieutenant, October 28, 1862.
Stephen D. Gardner, first sergeant; Edward Essex, sec-
ond sergeant ; James M. Vincent, third sergeant ; Theudes H.
Miller, first corporal; Stephen Julian, fourth sergeant; Peter
C. Powers, hfth sergeant; Jno. 0. llarne}", first corporal;
Wm. A. Rose, second cori:)oral; Wm. Threlkeld, third corpo-
ral ; Jno. Waynick, fifth corporal ; Boyton T. Chapman, sixth
corporal ; Wm. Goodpasture, seventh corporal ; Henry Saver-
cool, eighth corporal ; Furgis G. Holmes, fourth corporal ; Geo.
W. Martin, musiciaii ; Wm. B. Critchfield, musician ; Al-
kana Malone, wagoner.
Privates — Lindsay Abies, Wm. W. Allender, Wm. C.
Berdsall, Thos. Critser, Jno. U. Comer, Salmcm B. Chap-
man, Jonathan Uooley, Lemuel Ford, Geo. P. Fudge, Grif-
fith Gartin, A. J. Goodpasture, Jacob Honk, John Hall,
Thomas Hervey, Arro King, Jno. P. Martin, Peter Martz,
Wm. McKee, Isaiah L. Milner, Daniel McDermit, David
Mathews, James Merces, James D. Roach, Martin Roseman,
Wm. H. Ragsdale, Jno. H. Stanley, David P. Smith, Joshua
Vincent, Hardin Wilson, James Wells, John Wilson, Lewis
Melville, Geo. Ruple, Mylo Doty, Julius Safely, Henry C.
Anderscm, Jacob Berket, Frank P. Carroll, Bailey Clancy,
Jno. T. Callahan, Chas. L. Dooley, Able T. Edwards, Geo. W.
French, Chas. Gartin, Cumberland Gartin, Rens. Hudson-
piller, Oscar F. Holmes, Andrew Holmes, Westfall Ingram,
James P. Morgan, Ahria Morse, Norton McClintock, Wm.
McDermit, Thos. Mitchell, Harrison Moore, Elias Mills,
Cooper Powers, Geo. D. Robinson, Gabriel L. Ragsdale, G.
H. Ragsdale, Edwai'd Spencer, Oliver Threlkeld, Wm. Wy-
koft', Amisted AVheeler, Jesse Wells, Owen AVilson, John
Melville, Joseph O. Devault, Hiram Wingert, Sith H. Morgan,
Wm. O. Mitchell.
Fiftceufli Tiif(i)ifi\ff
Field Staff — William H. (Jibbon, assistant surgeon, com-
missioned November 2, 1861.
Eighteenth Infautri)
Field Staff — Jno. Edwards, colonel, commissioned July
17. 1862. David N. Smith, chaplain, commissioned July 7,
1862, from captain of Company C. A. S. Oppelt, fife major.
Elijah L. Kendall, fife major.
92 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Company C
James Van Bentliusen, captain ; William R. Blue, cap-
tain; Thomas E. Sargent, second lieutenant; Adam Burns,
first lieutenant ; Asbury Conawa}^, second lieutenant ; Benoni
J. Plvmate, fourth sergeant; Mordica N. Sweney, first cor-
poral ; James W. Barnett, third corporal ; John Boyd, fourth
corporal; Wilson Robb, sixth corporal; Wm. F. Edwards,
musician; Nathan W. Kendall, iiuisician; Stanley W. Prin-
dle, wagoner.
Privates — Wm. A. Baker, Wm. Edwards, Amasa Gilbert,
Geo. W. Glass, John Hardy, Emanuel Jackson, Reuben
Kritser, Sanford Lewis, Jesse Long, Wm. M. McCoy, Jno.
W. McKinley, James L. PhTiiate, Orlando PMnate, Samuel
D. Peacock, Simon Sams, Jacob Shell, Thomas B. Stuart,
Isaiah Trammell, Jno. AV. Cowan, Geo. Gilbert, Alexander
Grokin, Thomas B. Harney, Jennings Hayes, James Kritser,
Joseph Kneff, David Lewis, Jno. A. McCoy, Wallace D. Mc-
Kinley, Frank Morse, Martin Prather, Jacob Peacock, Jno.
C. Robertson, Daniel Sams, Hiram Shell, Levi Spurling, Wm.
F. Woodruif, Geo. W. Youtsev.
Thirty -fourth Infan try
Field and Staff — Warren S. Dungan, lieutenant-colonel;
John D. Sarner, quartermaster ; Henry W. Jay, assistant sur-
geon; Bertrand Rockwell, sergeant-major; John Throck-
morton, commissary sergeant.
Coinpcuiy E
Nelson B. Gardner, captain ; Francis Nolen, first lieuten-
ant; Jacob Swank, second lieutenant; Harrison D. Wagner,
first sergeant; Clarke T. Brant, second sergeant; Appleton
Noble, third sergeant; David Finley, fourth sergeant; Wil-
liam L. Henry, fifth sergeant; Joel Carter, first corporal;
William C. Douglas, second corjjoral ; Thos. D. Wirts, third
corporal ; Francis M. Comer, fourth corporal ; Lorenz James,
fifth corporal; Benjamin F. Dora, sixth corporal; Lenox M.
Duckworth, seventh corporal ; Anderson Gartin, musician.
Privates — Thomas Arnold, John Allen, Lewis Atkinson,
Stephen Atkinson, Jno. A. J. Bentley, Virtue Baker, Nathan
Bates, AVm S. Boyce, Gilbert C. Boyce, Joshua Byrd, Joseph
F. Coruch, H. Critser, Jno. Cackler, Nathan Coles, Alfred
Curtis, Wilberforce Coles, W. W. Dotcherman, Luther
Douglas, Wm. G. Duckworth, Jno. W. Duncan, L. W. Elder,
Joseph Fisher, Wm. H. Froh, Robt. C. Haffner, Milton Hill-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 93
ing, Oliver Harvey, Ainos Homslier, Jno. L. James, James
Harden, Wirten M. James, Major Johnson, Jno. Leighton,
Martin Krutesinger, Benj. F. Melvin, James L. Linn, Jno. A.
Mairwald, Carlton T. Morris, Carlton McNew, J. W. McCaf-
rey, DeMar D. McDonald, Zcdekiah McNew, Lafayette Mil-
ler, Oliver N. McLain, Leonard Paroin, N. N. Owsley, Tlios.
N. Triggs, J. C. Vinsonlialer, E. M. Wayland, James AYag-
oner, Allen Williams.
Company G
Stephen B. Low, captain; Wm. Goltry, first lieutenant;
Milo L. Doty, second lieutenant ; Jacob Byerly, first sergeant ;
Stanford May, second sergeant; Charles E. Allen, fifth ser-
geant ; James Tompkins, first corporal ; Urban N. Goltry, sec-
ond corporal; Wm. H. McKnight, fourth corporal; Joseph
Davis, fifth corporal; Geo. S. Ta3dor, seventh corporal; Jno.
W, Willmore, eighth corporal; F. G. Davenport, musician;
Geo. Davis, musician; Lyman Chapman, wagoner.
Privates — Edmund Avres, Weslev Andrews, Noah
Brotherton, Lewis Burley, George Bacon, Henry C. Christy,
Nelson Davenport, Jacob Easter, Francis M. Fudge, Wm. M.
Fisher, Milton Fisher, David M. Fudge, David Fodge, Aaron
H. Goltry, Charles A. Hunt, Lewis Hunt, Robt. M. Hester,
Geo. Harpool, James G. Leach, David Laper, Jno. A. Long,
Martin C. Mitchell, James Moore, Jonathan Mundell, Harney
Mundell, Soloman Mundell ; Peter Oakley, Basil R. Prather,
Abraham Sayers, Samuel S. Salyers, Jno. C. Swaney, James
Summers, Andrew Summers, Elijah Summers, Jesse Spray,
Cyrus L. Weston, Allen J. Wilson, Jno. P. Woods.
Company K
William Boyle, captain; Jno. O. Coles, first lieutenant;
Jno. Chaney, second lieutenant; Amrah Day, first sergeant;
Thos. J. Musselman, second sergeant; James Stanley, third
sergeant; William Waterhouse, fourth sergeant; Alva
Boylan, fifth sergeant; Wm. Coulter, first corporal; Silas
Wells, second corporal; Wm. H. Maple, third corporal; Wm.
A. Sanderson, fourth corporal; Chris C. Fletcher, fifth cor-
poral; Irving Parmento, sixth corporal; Samuel Fancher,
seventh corporal ; James Tout, eighth corporal ; Napoleon B.
Douglas, musician ; John H. Wells, musician ; Truman Story,
wagoner.
Privates — D. W. B. Anderson, Ephraim Badger, Samuel
Badger, Jno. D. Barnard, Wm. D. Barnard, Abraham Bech-
94 PAST AND PRESENT OP^ LUCAS COUNTY
tal, Jared Beclital, James Boylan, Isaac Brown, Isaiah Brown,
Sol E. Carmichael, Cyrus 0. Critclilield, Harvey L. Carson,
T. Park Coin, Geo. B. Colver, Evan O. Cox, S. Crowley, Har-
rison I. Crowder, Jno. S. Dill, Zaddock Dawson, Thos. Dawson,
Moses R. Daugberty, Thompson East, Wm. A. Evans, James
B. Edwards, Jackson Ford, Abram Goodpasture, Zebulon J.
Gray, Joseph H. Gray, William Hall, James Holbrook, Jo-
seph R. Larimer, Francis M. Long, L. R. Moore, James A.
Long, Daniel Morehead, Chas. A, Long, Wm. W. Morebead,
James Marsbv, Geo, W. McVev, Isaac March, Samuel A. Net-
tleton, Ranson A. Mitchell, Thos. W. Mitchell, Gabrial Per-
kins, Clark W. M. Whitton, Daniel Phillips, James Ratcliffe,
Enos Reed, David V. Reed, Jno. L. Roberts, Thos. L. Roberts,
Reuben C. Roberts, Jacob E. Robe, Truman W. Rhodes, Hugh
Rungan, Abel Savage, Isaac W. Salsbury, James Sowder,
Jacob Seward, Jno. B. Seward, Geo. E. Shark, David N. Sim-
mons, Levi Simmons, Lindsay Stanley, Lewis Stoneking,
James C. Stockton, Thos. L. Strong, Adam S. Sladle, Wm.
Hughes, Cyrus Larimer, Robt P. Pilford, Joseph F. Tingley,
Alexander Van Meter, George W. Wise, Geo. M. Warrington,
James Webster, Martin Webb, Jos. C. Wetter, Francis M.
Wheeler, Jno. D. Young.
Companies Unknown
Geo. S. Boston, Michael H. Buck, R. L. Cunningham, linas
S. Dunlap, Ezra E. Osborn, SiuKui Cross, Allen Jacobs, San-
ford G. Lewis, Wm. H. Tout.
Tliirty-sixth Infantry, Conipany F
Privates — Jno. L. Duckworth, Robt. Etheridge, Jas. C.
Evans, Greenbury Owen, Jno. M. Collett, eino. L. Clouse,
Jno. R. May, Andrew B. Prather, Luther C. Rowland.
Tlihif/seventJi Infantry, Company G
Privates — Thomas Hoskins, Thos. F. Keeling.
Company H
Private — Jno. S. Davenport.
Tlnrty-ninth Infantry, Company D
Soloman B. Delk, Jno. W. Parr, David R. Parr.
First Cavalry, Company F
Thos. S. Kendall.
Company II
Wm. Whisenand, second lieutenant; Allen W. Knight,
quartermaster sergeant ; David K. Webster, second sergeant ;
David I. Leffler, third sergeant; Jno. B. Matson, fourth ser-
PAST AiND PKEtSENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 95
geant; Geo. W. Hadmaii, fiftli sergeant; Jiio. S. Birkliead,
sixth sergeant; Wni. O. Parmenter, farrier.
Privates — Benj. F. Gates, Edwin H. Maydale, Jacob B.
Rhodes, Sidney Wells, Thus. A. Matson, Edward C. Douglas,
Green W. Gable, Thos. Jones, A. M. Leffler, Henry M. Miller,
Lnman Story, Nelson Maydale, David P. White, James
Podge, Jos. L. Hall, Anderson Lister, John P. Ross.
Unassigned to Any Company
Alvera B. French, Joseph Gardoner, Benj. A. Hale,
Eurotus C. Ljonan, Jacob Schell, Jno. Wilson, Jno. Lynch,
Adam Lafollet, Jno. W. Mauk, Joseph W. Milner, Mathias
Wagoner, Richard H. Watson, Francis M. Winberly.
Second Cavalry, Company I
Private — Wm. B. Ramse}^
Company K
Privates — Jacob S. Rogers, Joseph E. Salyards.
Company L
Privates — Francis M. Connor, Samuel Webb.
Fourth Cavalry, Company I
Privates — Griffith Gartin, Jas. A. Lane, Joseph H. Mer-
cer, Wm. Swiney, Jno. M. McCulley, LeAvis L. Lane, Chas.
L. Lockie, Jno. A. Mercer, W. H. Tuttle, Gilford Tuttle, Ira
Ruby.
Sixth Cavalry, Company D
Jno. D. Hardin, first lieutenant.
Seventh Cavalry, Company B
Privates — Jno. Dement, Harvey Tuttle, Lewis Tuttle, Wm.
Tuttle, A. Tuttle.
Eighth Cavalry, Company D
Jacob D. Hardie, first lieutenant; Lorenzo D. Graham,
second corporal.
Privates — Martin Douglas, E. F. Knight, Andrew P. Mil-
ner, T. W. Tillford, Thos. Goodkin, W. M. Knight, Joseph
Norris, Simeon B. Warford.
Company F
Henry Parker, fifth sergeant.
Privates — Geo. Swift, Joseph Overton.
Company I
Private — Thos. S. Krutsinger.
Company L
Ira Dauner, fourth corporal.
Ninth Ca}'alry, Company H
96 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Privates — Isaac J. Lefever, Jno. W. Stone, Geo. W. Tal-
bott.
Company L
Private — Jno. B. Abies.
First Battery
Private — Jas. Piersol.
The volunteers of Lucas county were distributed prin-
cipally in tlie Sixth, Thirteenth, Eighteenth and Thirty- fourth
regiments, with a few scattered in the Fourth, Eighth, Thirty-
sixth, Thirty-seventh and Thirty-ninth Infantry regiments;
also in the First, Fourth, Seventh, Eighth and Ninth Cavalry
regiments, aggregating about seven hundred men credited
to the county, who went in the defence of their country and
their homes in the days of their peril. The Sixth infantry
containing three companies. A, B and F, partially filled from
this county and saw much severe service. They were in the
battle of Shiloh, where they suffered severe casualties, 64 were
killed and 147 missing. This regiment was also engaged in
the battles attending the march on Jackson, Mississippi. It
was also in the battle of Missionary Ridge, in which a number
were killed and a large number wounded, and it w^as also in
the battles at Resaca, Dallas, Big Shanty, and Kenesaw
Mountain, Georgia.
Lucas county, as we have seen, was represented by Com-
pany C in the Thirteenth infantry, Colonel Crocker's regi-
ment. It was engaged in many battles during the war, and
it was in the two days conflict at Shiloh and lost about twenty-
three men killed in that battle and 130 wounded.
The Thirteenth was also in the severe battle before Atlanta
on July 21, 1864.
Company C in the Eighteenth iufantr}^ was made up
largely with Lucas county men, John Edwards of Chariton
was its first colonel, and he continued to command it until
October, 1864, when he was promoted to a brigadier general.
The Eighteenth regiment was enlisted under the call for
300,000 men in 1862. It rendezvoused at Clinton, Iowa, and
was mustered into the U. S. service August 6, 1862. The same
month it was attached to General Schofield's command in
southwest Missouri. Its first battle was at Newtonia, Mis-
souri, where it drove in an advanced post, losing one man
killed and three wounded. After this brief campaign on the
PAST AND PRESENT OP' LUCAS COUNTY 97
frontier, this regiment returned to Springfield, where it suf-
fered from the measles. The casualties amounted to ninety
men.
In eTanuary, 1863, Springfield was attacked by Marmaduke.
It was held by the Eighteenth infantry and a few hundred state
militia, and after a severe engagement lasting all day, the
rebels retreated, leaving 180 of their men killed and wounded.
The Eighteenth lost fifty men killed and wounded, including
Capt. Wm. R. Bhie of Company C, who was killed. This was
considered a very great loss as Captain Blue stood very high
with his comrades and it was predicted by them that he would
distinguish himself as a soldier.
Grant's campaign against tlie rebels in Mississippi, in
which many Lucas county soldiers participated, is regarded
by some historians of the war as among his greatest achieve-
ments. Up to this time it was thought by many military men
that it was absolutely necessary for a commander to keep in
touch with his supplies or provisions at all times. But in this
campaign Grant introduced a new feature. Although he was
in the enemys' country, he cut loose from his supplies and for
the first time during the war up to that date, undertook to
feed his army on supplies and provisions taken from the
rebels. His remarkable success demonstrated the wisdom of
his action, although he kept his army in almost constant
motion from the time he crossed the Mississippi river until
he chased Pemberton into his forts and breastworks at Vicks-
burg, yet his army at all times was abundantly supplied from
the rebel country through which it was marching and fight-
ing. In and during this whirlwind campaign he fought no
less than five important battles, in every one of which he was
successful. What might have been the result of this cam-
paign if General Pemberton had obeyed the orders of his
superior. General Johnson, and had undertaken to concen-
trate his forces with those of Johnson outside of Vicksburg,
it may be difficult to determine. The fact is that Grant did
not give him much time to consider what move he should make,
and it appears that when the question arose whether he should
abandon Vicksburg and concentrate his forces with those of
Johnson for a battle with Grant's forces, it is said that he
submitted the question to a vote of the principal officers of his
command, and a large majority of them voted that it would
be best to disobey Johnson's order and get behind the breast-
Voi. T— r,
98 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
works and forts at Vicksburg just as soon as he could. This
gave Grant the opportunity to besiege Vicksburg and compel
General Pemberton to surrender an army of 30,000 soldiers.
The kev to General Grant's success is found in his dis-
position and rule to light at ever}^ opportunity that he had to
tight. He did not spend time in inquiring what might be the
result or what might hapj^en. While other generals were
hesitating to fight, thinking that perhaps they might secure
a better place or 23oint for battle, he seemed to inquire whether
or not there was an opportunity to light. He did not stop to
imagine what might or might not hai3peu. He had faith in
his army and all he asked was an opportunity for a fair fight.
The rebel loss at Vicksburg did more to discourage the
rebels than anything that had occurred during the war, up to
that date. Pemberton 's army was largely made up of the
chivalry of the south. A large number of Pemberton 's forces
came from New Orleans, who up to that time were regarded
as almost invincible. But when hundreds of that splendid
army were shi23ped home to New Orleans for burial, and the
remainder of them came home as prisoners of w^ar, having
pledged their sacred honor that they would not again take
up arms against the Government of the United States until
they were duly exchanged, Louisiana was in mourning, and
the rebel idea, that one rebel soldier was equal in battle to two
or three union men, began to vanish.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN
It may seem tJiat reference to Abraham Lincoln and the
services he performed for his country in the preservation of
the Union of the states, is out of place in the history of a
county, but on the other hand, his name, fame, and services
are so closely interwoven with the history of our nation and
its destiny that even the history of a county would seem incom-
plete without reference to him.
No gi-eater or more difficult task was ever cast upon a ruler
or a president of a republic than that cast upon Abraham Lin-
coln in preserving the life of our nation against the assaults
of the greatest rebellion know^n to history. He was not only
required to meet and overthrow hundreds of thousands of
rebels in arms, sworn to destroy the Government organized
and handed down to us by the fathers of the republic, but he
was required to pei'form this gigantic task against the sym-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 99
patliy of thousands of the enemies of our Government at home
and abroad, and when we come to consider the difficulties
thrown in his way and his success, we can appreciate the state-
ment of Henry Watterson, the great southern editor, that
"he must have been inspired for this work,"
In the first phice, one faction of a great political joarty
being misled by political prejudice and the influence of weak
leaders, arrayed themselves against the war policies of Mr.
Lincoln and did what they could to embarrass him in the
prosecution of the war. Strange to say, that acting under such
political prejudice, this faction so far forgot their duty to
their country as to declare the prosecution of the war to be a
failure.
The proceedings of this faction demonstrates the fact
that political prejudice is the greatest danger to our republic;
and demonstrates the alarming fact that citizens of our repub-
lic may become so blinded by political prejudice as to cause
them to array themselves against the welfare and even the life
of our republic.
The historv of this war demonstrates the fact, incredible
as it may seem, that while Mr. Lincoln was engaged in the
prosecution of this war for the preservation of the Union, he
was required to keep one hand on this faction and pTevent it
from organizing opposition thereto at home. But this is not
all with which he had to contend. In the very beginning of
this conflict it was discovered that quite a number of the i3eo-
ple of England s\anpathized with the Confederacy, and seemed
even anxious that the English Government should interfere
in the war and assist the Confederacy. This sympathy was
so strong that when Henry Ward Beecher w^ent to London to
explain to the English people the object and purposes of our
Government in the prosecution of this war, mobs collected,
and for a time refused to listen to him. Hence, in the prose-
cution of the war Mr. Lincoln was continually eml)arrassed by
the apparent fact that England was waiting for some excuse
to actively aid the Confederacy in this struggle.
Again, w^e were not a war-like people. For years preced-
ing the war we had enjoyed profound peace. Our regular
armv onlv contained a few thousand soldiers, and but a few
states had encouraged the organization or drilling of state
militia. While the war soon developed the fact that no better
soldiers ever marched out on a field of battle than the men
/-» v«
r\f\^f\
100 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
constituting the rank and. file of both armies, and while it
soon became apparent that no better conmianders of regi-
ments, brigades, or divisions ever drew their swords on a field
of battle, yet it required about three years time and the sacri-
fice of thousands of men for Mr. Lincoln to discover in his
vast armies a Napoleon, or a military genius, who could han-
dle, control and direct 100,000 men on the field of battle as
readily and safely as he would a regiment or a brigade.
While no better fighters or commanders of brigades or di^^i-
sions ever existed than Generals Sherman, Sheridan, Thomas,
Hancock, and others whom we might mention in the Union
armies, yet we repeat, it required three years for Mr. Lin-
coln to discover in his vast armies a military genius who could
take in the entire situation at a glance, and who could collect,
combine, and hurl at the enemy, at the same moment of time
an irresistible force, thereby preventing the combination of
his enemies against him.
Mr. Lincoln was not an educated or trained soldier. He
had no ex23erience on the battlefield, and yet his letters to
McClellan, Burnside and Hooker, show conclusively that he
possessed military ability of a very high order. His modest
suggestions to McClellan, that he put his entire force in the
battle, arid that he promptly and vigorously pursue a defeated
armv while his soldiers were elated bv victorv and the enemv
were depressed by defeat, are maxims of war common to the
greatest commanders of history. His repeated and earnest
requests to McClellan, that he avoid sending his army into
battle in pieces, are pathetic. His great soul was troubled
at the sacrifice of the lives of his soldiers bv the mistakes or
incompetency of commanders.
For instance; take the battle of Antietam. This was the
best fought battle of the war on the part of the Confederate
army, and the worst fought battle on the Union side. While
General Lee had about fortv thousand men at this battle, Gen-
oral McClellan had about sixt}^ thousand soldiers, and yet
there was not any single conflict or battle in which Genei'al
Lee did not have the largest number of soldiers actually
engaged. General McClellan would order the advance of one
corps or division, and the remainder of his army remained
idle, while the combined rebel army defeated this corps. Then
another corps or division of McClellan 's army was ordered
to attack the entire rebel armv, with the same result. General
PAST AiNU PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 101
Porter's coniiuaiid of about eleven thousand veteran soldiers,
although present at this bloody battle, did not fire a giui. This
mistake of McClellan was so glaring and apparent that it was
seen and commented upon by the private soldiers of his army.
It would not be right to say that General McClellan lacked
courage, but it is evident that he posessed an element or feel-
ing of timidity that destroyed his usefulness as a great com-
]i lander. He hesitated to assume responsibility, an indispens-
able requisite of a great commander.
Again, there is another circumstance, which, while it seems
trivial in itself, shows Mr. Lincoln's innate greatness and the
difficulties with which he had to contend. At a critical time
during the war, some of his valued advisers, members of his
ow^n cabinet, men of patriotism and ability became so affected
with an ambition to become president of the United States,
as to cause them to listen complacently to criticisms of Presi-
dent Lincoln's war policies. He recognized their ability and
patriotism, he knew that they could and would render import-
ant services to their country in the hour of her need, and
instead of breaking with them, as smaller men would have
surely done, he overlooked their mistake, retained and paci-
fied them, and thereby secured and retained their splendid
services for their country. While the circumstance seem
trivial, yet it clearly indicates the greatness of the man.
Where is there a parallel circumstance in history 1 He thought
not of himself. He was ready to make any sacrifice for his
country. He read human nature as he would a book. He
knew that these men w^ere patriots, misled by political ambi-
tion, and that he could lead them to realize their mistake, and
he did.
Again, there is another view of this war and its results.
Many writers, especially southern writers, claim that even
in the beginning it was clearly seen that the superiority of
the north in numbers and resources must in the end terminate
the struggle in favor of the North, but the history of wars
demonstr-ates the fact that the battle is not always with the
strong. While it is true that the North did possess the advan-
tage in numbers and wealth, yet the fact remains that for
nearly four years the South kept in the field an army of over
one hundred thousand men, as good soldiers as ever appeared
on a battlefield. Then the South possessed the advantage of
being able to maintain a defensive position on their own
102 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
ground, where they were acquainted with the country and
the roads through it, having inner lines and being fully pro-
tected by forts and breastworks, with these advantages it
necessarily required a much larger force to battle success-
fully with them.
But is is claimed by many writers that the mistakes of
President Davis and his advisers had as much, if not more
to do with the result of the war than did the armies of Gen-
eral Lee. It is true that when General Lee surrendered his
army to Grant at Appomattox, the Confederacy was bankrupt.
Its bonds and paper mone}^ were worthless. It is said that
it required $100 in Confederate notes to pay for a meal of
victuals in any southern restaurant, and the Confederate army
were living on corn, the soldiers being allowed two ears of corn
per day during the last few days of the war. But this con-
dition, it is claimed, even by southern writers, was the result
of incomjDetency on the part of Mr. Davis and his advisers.
We must recollect that in the beginning of the war Confed-
erate bonds sold in the London market at a premium. The
first issue of $15,000,000 was promptly purchased by the Eng-
lish people. Now suppose that the English people had iuA'ested
several hundred million dollars of their money in such bonds,
what would have been the result ? Or, we must bear in mind
that at that time cotton was king.
Now suppose that the rulers of the Confederacy had pos-
sessed the sagacity to permit the English Government to dic-
tate the tariff on cotton for a few years, what would have been
the effect'? In other words, did not the (Jonfederacy possess
the means to so interest the English people financially in its
success as to absolutely induce them to interfere in this war
for the protection of their dollars "? And at one time in the pro-
gress of the war, would not the active aid of England have
determined the result against us?
The war is over. Years of profound peace have healed
many of its wounds. The curse of human slavery has been
abolished, and the South has arisen from the ashes of war a
progressive and happy people, and thi'ough all these years of
history the name and fame of Abraham Lincoln has grown
brighter each day, and as every mere incident of his life is now
cherished by the people of this country, we will be permitted
to relate a few incidents tending to illustrate his character.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 103
When a mere boy the writer attended a trial in the circuit
court of Piatt county, in the State of Illinois, in whicli Mr.
Lincoln appeared as attorney for my father. The proceed-
ings in this case were so intensely interesting to me, that for
several years thereafter I could repeat in substance Mr. Lin-
coln's speech. The case arose over a contract between my
father and a party who had engaged to break quite a large
tract of prairie land for him. I recollect distinctly that Mr.
Jjincoln seemed to be entirely familiar with that kind of work.
He seemed to know all about it. Just how, and when, and in
what manner it should have been done. I recollect that he
made fun of the mistakes of my father in entering into such
a contract, calling him a tenderfoot and claiming that he had
been imposed upon by the plaintiff, that the plaintiff had made
liim believe that fall braking was much better than spring
braking. My father had emi^loyed a local attorney to defend
the case, but when it came to trial it appeared that this local
attorney had made arrangements with Mr. Lincoln to try
all of his cases. Judge Davis presided at the trial, and Mr.
Lincoln went with him over the circuit and was employed by
local attornevs in each countv. He was successful in this
case, and my father paid him a fee of $25 for his services.
Again, afterwards, when I was attending school at Dan-
ville, Illinois, Mr. Lincoln attended court there, and I procured
leave of absence from school for abont one week to attend
court and hear Mr. Lincoln try cases in that court. He had
made the same arrangement there with a voung attornev
whose name, I think, was Laman.
I will always recollect a murder case in that court, in which
Mr. Lincoln appeared as one of the attorneys for the defend-
ant. The principal facts as I recollect them were as follows:
A year or two prior to the date of this trial an old man came
tramping through the country, and was employed by a farmer.
He would talk but little, but he was an industrious and
reliable farm hand, and hence the farmer was not able to learn
anything about his antecedants, or former history. One day
he went squirrel hunting and returning at about four o'clock
in the afternoon he rested his litle on the gate which opened
to a walk leading up to the farmer's house. He took deliberate
aim at the farmer who was sitting in his chair on the porch
reading a newspaper, and shot him in the head, instantly kill-
ing him. He then placed the gun on his shoulder and walked
104 PAST AND PRESENT OP LUCAS COUNTY
slowly aud deliberately down the highway in the timber, anil
was thus going away from the scene of the shooting, when he
was overtaken and arrested by a posse that followed him. He
was indicted, and Judge Davis asked him if he had engaged
an attornev. He answered no, that he did not want an attor-
ney. The Judge then turned to Mr. Lincoln and said, "Mr.
Lincoln, I will appoint you to defend this man." Lincoln
replied, "Judge, 1 will assist in the defense if Swett and Voor-
hees will help me," referring to Daniel W. Voorhees and Leon-
ard Swett, who were attending that term of court. They con-
sented to do so, and the trial proceeded the next day. The
state was represented by a brilliant young law^^er named
Williams, of Bloomingion, Illinois. The defendant would
not even talk with his attornevs, and thev were unable to
ascertain anything about his former history. They set up the
defense of insanity, but they had no witnesses to sustain this
defense. The few persons in the neighborhood who knew
this old man, did not believe that he was insane. No alienists
were sworn.
The remarkable part of this trial was the speeches of the
eminent lawyers w^ho represented the defense. Although they
were each talking on the same side about the same evidence
and facts, yet their speeches were wholly unlike in every
respect. Mr. Voorhees seemed to jump into the middle of
the case at once, hurling words and sentences, filled with logic
and eloquence in every direction. His great big head, with
hair cut pompadour, and standing out straight all over his
head, trembled with magnetism and emotion. I recollect that
his principal point was the absence of any evidence showing
anv motive for the crime.
*j
The speech of Leonard Swett was in style, manner and
delivery, just the reverse of that of Mr. Voorhees. He slowly,
deliberately, methodically and eloquently reviewed the facts
of the transaction. In long labyrinthine sentences, and with
a voice full of pathos, he painted a picture of this old man,
with his reason dethroned, wandering over the earth without
friends or home, moved alone by impulse. On the merest
rumor that at sometimes he had been in the State of Kentucky,
Mr. Swett drew a picture of him while in youth, "bounding
over the green-topped hills of Kentucky."
The speech of Mr. Lincoln was entirely different from
either of the preceding speeches. It w^as simply a good
PAST AND FKESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 105
natiired logical review of the facts and circumstances con-
nected with the alleged crime, interspersed with anecdotes
illustrating the points he made. His reasoning seemed irresist-
able, and when the defense closed, there were very few if any
persons in the court room who were not thoroughly satisfied
of the insanity of the defendant, and believed that he would
be acquitted, but the speech of the young lawyer who repre-
sented the state, was spoken of as the most powerful appeal
ever made in that court room for a verdict in support of the
enforcement of the law. I recollect his closing with the pro-
phecy that time would disclose the motive of this cold blooded
murder. The defendant was convicted, and the judgment
was that he should be imprisoned for life.
THE HOME GIJAEDS
During the war, especially during the first two years of
the war, military companies, called "Home Guards," were
organized in all of the counties bordering on the Missouri
state line. At this time we had no railroads, or telegraph, or
telephone lines in the county, and we were kept in a continuous
state of excitement by rumors of war and especially by stories
to the effect that bodies of organized rebels were about to
cross the Missouri state line and overrun Iowa, thereby
destroying property and making it necessary to recall low^a
soldiers from the front to protect our state. The extent and
effect of such rumors seems now to have been incredible, and
even ridiculous. The Home Guards would meet for drilling
purposes at least once a week, and it is evident that a few well-
drilled soldiers would have put a regiment of such soldiers
to flight.
Many amusing incidents connected with the organization
and movement of the Home Guards were related at the time.
At one time, early in the war, a full grown rumor spread over
the county to the effect that quite a large force of rebel sol-
diers had crossed the Missouri state line. About noon on a
certain day, the rumor came that a large force of rebels had
collected at or near the village of Garden Grove, in Decatur
coimty, Iowa, on their northward march through or over
southern Iowa, armed with swords and and torches, expecting
to burn and destroy property, and generally spread ruin over
the land. Couriers were sent over the county calling th?
106 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Home Guards to arms, and about four o'clock P. M. of that
day, quite a number of these soldiers were gathered together
on the streets of Chariton with squirrel rifles and shot guns,
ready and even anxious to meet the foe. The writer being one
of this volunteer organization procured a Sharps rifle, the
best gun in the army, and joined in the march south towards
Missouri. It seems that the idea that we would ever want
anything to eat only occurred to one man. As he had a team
of good horses he filled his wagon with provisions, and we
were soon on our wav to meet the eneniv. We arrived at
Garden Grove, eighteen miles distant, about nine o'clock P. M.,
but found the people there sleeping peacefully. They had not
seen anv rebels, but thev understood that thev w^ere in force
at or about the town of Leon, about twelve miles further south.
We spent the remainder of the night trying to sleep on some
boxes and benches on the sidewalks of the village, expecting
to move at the peep of day. Very early the next morning we
undertook to find a hotel or restaurant where we could break-
fast. One i3atriotic citizen, without rew^ard or the hope
thereof, except in the feeling of satisfaction that he had
assisted in feeding the defenders of his county, came to our
camp with an armful of onions, which he had gathered in his
garden, and distributed them among the soldiers, and in a
short time our army was in motion.
When we arrived at Leon we were informed that there
were no rebels in that locality, but that there was a large force
about fifteen miles farther south. When w^e reached that
point, we met a gentleman who informed us that he had been
traveling over north Missouri for the greater part of a week,
and that he had not seen or heard of any rebel force at any
point or place. By this time many of the rank and file of our
army became disgusted with soldiering, and regarding the
campaigTi as a huge joke, they became thoroughly insul)ordi-
nate. They considered and treated the orders issued by those
who assumed command as mere polite requests not intended to
be enforced if the soldiers deemed them unnecessary or incon-
venient. However, the people in that locality were j^atriotic,
and gladly gave up their best rooms and beds to the defenders
of their country. The next day our army was augmented by
the arrival of several other companies of Home Guards from
other counties, and commanders in gaudy uniforms began to
appear and multiply orders. Honest John Edw^ards of Lucas
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 107
county, acting under authorit}^ from the governor of Iowa,
proceeded to take supreme command, and ordered the pur-
chase of beans and tobacco for the army.
In pursuance of his order our forces moved the next day
to a pkce called Pleasant Plaines, where it was announced
that we would practice the art of war and get ready to fight
the rebels when we found them. The distance to Pleasant
Plaines was about seventeen miles. The weather was exceed-
ingly hot. I was assigned to the rear guard with ten or twelve
other boys under the command of a farmer who knew no more
than we did aljout the duties of a soldier.
In making this march we had tt) cross a river, and the
main part of the army being nearly one mile in advance, the
boys importimed our commander to permit us to go in swim-
ming for just a little while. At first he hesitated, but being
a very kindhearted gentleman, he at length consented, and
we proceeded to droAvn our cares in the water. After a short
time he suggested that we must move on. Then he urged us
to come out. Then an order coming back for him to hurry
up, he begged and entreated us to come out. It may not sound
military, but the picture of our commander, pacing back and
forth on the bank of the river, entreating us to come out,
suggested the picture of an old hen pleading with her brood
of ducks to swim ashore. At length we did come out, and
assuming an unmilitary trot, we soon arrived in camp. I
don't know, but I feel confident that our kindhearted old
leader never noticed such a little matter as disobedience of an
order to march, when the bovs wanted to swim so bad.
INTOXirATTNG LIQUORS
The legislation of Iowa in reference to the sale or keeping
for sale of intoxicating liquors, is a disgrace to the state. It
may well be doubted whether any law, outside of a law abso-
lutely prohibiting the manufacture of intoxicating liquors of
any kind or character, would operate to prohil)it the evils aris-
ing from the use of such li([uors. It does not seem to matter
how stringent the provisions of a law are made, or how severe
the penalties for violating a liquor law are made, it seems
that men will violate such laws, and if such liquors are made
or manufactured, they Avill be used as a beverage. The desire
to use such liqnors is planted in the constitution of men, and
108 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
SO long as this appetite for liquors exist, and they are manu-
factured, men will find some way to procure them.
In the early history of the county there was no law attempt-
ing to limit the right to purchase or sell intoxicating liquors,
and as physicians claimed that they were absolutely neces-
sary as a medicine, the validity of a law absolutely prohibit-
ing the manufacture thereof was considered doubtful. But
the evils resulting from the use of intoxicating liquors became
so glaring and alarming, that quite a large number of the
voters of the state began to threaten both of the controlling
political parties that if they failed to adoj^t strong resolutions
against the sale of liquors, that this class of voters would vote
against their party. In this way they caused the republican
party to adopt resolutions in favor of a prohibitory liquor
law. This party undertook to redeem its jDromise to enact
prohibitory legislation. It caused the voters at the next elec-
tion to vote upon a proposed amendment to the constitution,
conferring constitutional power on the Legislature to abso-
lutely prohibit the manufacture and sale of intoxicating
liquors. This vote carried, and Iowa was preparing to enter
upon a plan or scheme of absohite prohibition, when the
supreme court declared that on account of some informality
in the manner in which said vote had been submitted, that the
result of such vote was invalid.
In the meantime the question of prohibition became so
unpopular that Horace Boles, the democratic candidate for
governor, was elected over an ordinary republican majority
of more than thirty thousand votes. This result frightened
the leaders of the republican party, and they were further
frightened by the complaints of the republican Germans in
towns and cities located along the Mississippi river, that they
must be given the right to manufacture, sell and use their
lager beer. The result was that the republican leaders under-
took the difficult task of enacting laws whereby the republi-
can Germans might be given the right to manufacture, sell
and use lager beer at points and places where the people
desired to do so, and at the same time, and by and in the same
act, it w^as declared that the sale of such liquor was criminal
in the coimty and in the small towns and villages where the
great majority of the people favored prohibition.
The idea was to pacifv the German voters in the large
towns and cities, by giving them their lager beer, and at the
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 109
same time to make their peace with the ultra temperance vot-
ers in the country and the small towns and villages, by declar-
ing the sale of all kinds of intoxicating liqnors, including wines
and lager beer, to be criminal, and fixing their punishment
at a fine of at least three hundred dollars. They undertook
to effect this result by enacting what was called the "Mulct
law." It is evident that this law is contradictory on its face,
that is, they first declare that the sale of any kind of liquors,
including wines and lager beer to be absolutely criminal, but
provide that if the party who is found guilty of selling any
liquor or beer, has obtained permission to do so from the
county board of supervisors, then he must go scott free. The
penalty of his crime will not l)e enforced against him. It
clearly appears that this law is ridiculous on its face, and many
lawyers in the state contend that the provisions of the Mulct
law, relieving the party from punishment for his violations of
the law are invalid, and that the courts would be compelled to
hold the same invalid if such a case is presented to them.
Again, the injurious effects of this law are plainly seen,
in the fact that it creates disrespect for the law, and men use it
for malicious purposes. One man for some reason becomes
offended at another, and especiall}^ if the other man is a drug-
gist, he awaits an opportunity to commence some criminal
proceedings against him for failing to comply with said liquor
law, and if he can show that such druggist sold a bottle of
lager beer, or in fact any preparation like Jamaica Ginger,
containing a certain per cent of alcohol, he can gratify his
malicious feeling towards the druggist by causing him to be
fined at least three hundred dollars for selling a bottle of beer,
or a few ounces of Jamica Ginger, or any other preparation
containing a certain per cent of alcohol.
The result of this legislation is to cause manv men to
purchase liquors by the gallon and keep it in their cellars, and
it also furnishes lucrative employment to a class of men
called "boot-leggers," who carry around liquors in their
pockets and in a valise and sell it. The result is that such
vendors of liquors sell a poisonous stuff of positive injury to
any person using it. It is true that the sale and use of intoxi-
cating liquors is one of the greatest national evils in existence.
Its injurious eff'ccts are cast upon wives and innocent chil-
dren, but there is veiy little common sense or honesty in the
different remedies that have been provided for tins evil. The
110 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
momeut that the question enters politics, all hopes of it secur-
ing a sensible, reasonable and effective legal remedy is gone.
May we not hope that some non-partisan movement may occur
whereby the fallacy of the claim that intoxicating liquors is
necessaiy as a medicine will be exposed and the manufacture
will be prohibited. Until this is done, the great evil result-
ing from its use, will continue to curse the peo^^le of this
country.
Eff'orts to enforce liquor laws in this county have been
spasmodic. The j)eople would endure such evil for a time, and
during this time no effort would be made to enforce the law
against it. Then upon the commission of some crime arising
from its use a wave of reform would pass over the country, and
the people for a time would organize to enforce the law, and for
a short time liquor sellers would be prosecuted, fined and per-
haps placed in jail, but in a short time the people would begin
to tire of this crusade against rum, and for a while prosecu-
tions would cease and liquor sellers would be comparatively
free from prosecutions.
One bad feature of the law was to permit druggists to sell
intoxicating liquors for medicinal purposes and permit phy-
sicians to prescribe the same to their patients. The purchasers
of liquors were required to file with the druggist a written
I'equest to iDurchase the same for lawful uses, Imt this pro-
vision simply operated as an inducement to the druggist to
violate the law. He was permitted to purchase and sell liquors
for medicinal purposes. He would and did sell them at from
fifty to one hundred per cent above cost. The more he could
sell, the more money he would make, and hence the law oper-
ated as a standing bribe to the druggists to violate its pro-
visions.
Thus, for years, the people of this county have struggled
to find some remedy for this great evil, but as yet their efforts
have been in vain.
SCHOOLS
Iowa may well be proud of her public school system.
Under the law each civil township is a school district, called
"the district township of Otter Creek" or "Chariton," or any
other township, and again, there may be two or three districts
GAEFIELD SCHOOL, CHAEITON
HIGH SCHOOL, CHAEITOX
?u
MS
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY ]]:i
in one township. Again, towns may be organized into a school
district, called "the Independent School District of Chari-
ton," or "of Russell," or "of Lucas," as the case may be.
Each school district has a full list of officers, as a president,
vice-president, secretary, ti'easurer and board of directors.
The business of the district and the employment of teachers- is
conducted by the directors.
Then we have a county superintendent, who has the gen-
ei'al supervision of the schools of the county. The county
superintendent, who, of late years is usually a woman, is also
constituted a court, with jui-isdiction over all controversies
that arise between districts, and also between teachers and the
board of directors, and also all controversies arising as to the
proper location of school houses, and the building thereof.
An appeal lies from the decisions of the board of directors
to the county superintendent, and in some cases, from his
decision to the state superintendent of schools. But one of
the chief excellencies of our school system is in its provisions
regarding the building of school houses. By means of a com-
paratively small tax a sufficient fund can be raised to build a
comfortable and even an elegant school house. During the
last thirty or forty years so many school houses have been
built in this state, that architects have evolved the best pos-
sible plans therefor, and as a result Iowa school houses, as
they are now built, are comfortable, commodious and elegant,
leaving with teachers and pupils pleasant memories of their
school days.
Chariton has four large school houses, conducted by a
superintendent and about twenty-tive teachers. These teach-
ers were required to pass a very strict examination, and to
have attended a normal school each vear, attended alone bv
• ■ t,'
teachers. Each teacher is gi'eatly benefited by the compar-
ison of methods adopted hy others, and as a result we find in
Iowa schools that the best up to date methods of teaching are
in use.
While there has been a constant improvement in our public
schools, yet there is one criticism of modern methods, that
seems to be well founded, and that is, the pupils are rushed
along too fast. They are hurried through the elementary
branches that they may take up the languages and higher
mathematics just as soon as possible.
114 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
For instance, how many graduates of high schools are
there of whom it can be said, that he, or she, is an excellent
reader; a good penman; entirely familiar with arithmetic,
English grammar and history. Not long ago we noticed a
criticism offered by an employer of girls and boys to the ef-
fect, that few of them were eyen good readers, or could write
a legible hand, or whom he could absolutely trust to solye
ordinary problems in arithmetic. The ordinary pupil soon
comes to regard these elementary studies as unnecessary.
They prefer to go to higher mathematics, or to the translation
of Caesar, to spending their time as they contemptuously say,
with ''readin', ritin', or 'rithmetic."
We haye no doubt, but the time will soon come, when stud-
ents will be required to become entirely familiar with these
elementary studies, before they are permitted to leaye them.
A FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY
By and through the untiring efforts of a Chariton girl,
Miss Margaret Brown, we haye secured an elegant small
library building, and a small library of interesting and useful
books of which we all feel proud. I do not mean that this li-
brary was secured through the effoi'ts of Miss Brown alone,
but in such enterprises one person or a few persons com-
paratiyely, must always spend a large share of their time, and
undergo considerable labor to make the enterprise a success.
Miss Brown without reward or the hope thereof, except in the
feeling of satisfaction attending success, yoluntarily deyoted
her time and labor in securing the establishment of, and in
proyiding for the maintenance of this library. She succeeded.
In the first place she acquainted herself with library buildings
oyer the country, in order to obtain the yery best plans there-
for, and she then thoroughly acquainted herself with the best
methods of conducting such libraries, and, haying in this way
ascertained the kind and character of a l)uilding suital:)le for
a small library, and the best method of conducting it, she pro-
ceeded to work at this enterprise until it was accomplished.
Under the laws of the state of Iowa, towns and cities may
yote a tax to aid in the establishment of free public libraries.
This tax was yoted, and then application was made to
Mr. Andrew Carnegie for financial assistance. He promptly
responded thereto. A suitable lot was procured and in a
Residence Scene on Vine Street
North Side of East Front Street
School
High
Residence Street Scene
Residence Scenes on
Vine Street
SCENES OF LUCAS
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 115
short time the doors were opened in an elegant small library
building, and with the aid of donations from the citizens of
Chariton, and a small tax on the taxable property of the city,
the shelves were well filled with useful books.
Mr. Carnegie and Mr. Rockefeller are certainly entitled
to great credit for their financial aid in establishing libraries
and in founding institutions of learning all over the country.
The statement of Mr. Carnegie that, "the time will come when
for a man to die leaving a million dollars undisposed of, will
be a disgrace," is sufficient to immortalize his name.
It may seem ungrateful and presumptions in any one to
undertake to advise these philanthropists, as to what the\^
should do in the disposal of their money, or even suggest that
the 2)1 ans or methods which they have adopted are not the
best, but we will suggest, that while the founding of libraries
and the building of appropriate houses for colleges and uni-
versities are appropriate aids to education, yet the founding
of schools where worthy young men and women can and
would be educated, in such a manner as to enable them, not
only to properly discharge all the duties devolving upon them
as citizens of this republic, but as statesmen, on whose shoul-
ders may fall the burden of maintaining in its purity and
strength, this, the greatest republic ever founded by man.
While the colossal stone buildings erected by John D.
Rockefeller are undying monuments to his philanthropy and
generosity, yet, it would seem that he overlooked the fact that
these magnificent buildings simply open other doors for the
education of the sons and daughters of millionaires. They
are not within the reach of the citizen of moderate means.
Notwithstanding the vast contributions of Mr. Rockefeller,
still the ambitious and worthy young men and women of
moderate means cannot pay the smn required to enable them
to become graduates of these institutions.
As a general rule our brightest men, our greatest statesmen,
the benefactors of our race, were not born or reared in luxury.
Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Daniel Webster,
Abraham Lincoln, and many others, who have witnessed the
struggle of the inn>v, and felt the pangs of poverty, but none
of whom could have taken a classical course in one of Mr.
Rockefeller's institutions of learning if they had lived since
these schools were founded, for want of means to pay the ex-
jDense of such a course. It is the ambitious, industrious and
Vol. 1—7
116 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
worthy sons of the poor, for whom Mr. Rockefeller has made
no provision. The expense of attending his schools prohi])it.>
them from entering the same. The sons of wealtlw parents
do not need such institutions. The country is full of schools
for them.
Think of it : The interest accumulating on one million of
dollars would pay all of the expenses of a school, wherein one
hundred students might be graduated each year. While the
government is thus educating a class for w^ar, Mr. Rockefeller
might educate the same number in the interests of peace. He
might produce statesmen, who, by wise action, could avoid the
necessitv of war. What a monument to the memorv of the
founder of such a school!
THE BANKS OF LUCAS COUNTY
The first bank established in Chariton was one under tlic
name of F. W. Brooks & Company, and was conducted by E.
A. Temple as cashier. In 1869, Lyman Cook and J. C. Peasely
of Burlington, Iowa, succeeded to the ownershiiD of this bank,
and about 1870, it was merged in the First National Bank of
Chariton, which was incorporated by S. H. Mallory, Lyman
Cook, J. C. Peasely and D. M. Thompson and E. A. Temple,
with a capital of fifty thousand dollars.
S. H. Mallory was the first president of this bank, and E.
A. Temple was its first cashier. Mr. Temple was a boin
banker, and under his management this bank became one of
the strongest banks in southern Iowa.
About the year 1882, Mr. Temple organized the Bankers
Ijife Insurance Company, and soon thereafter, he resigned his
position of cashier of the First National Bank of Chariton,
and removed to Des Moines, Iowa, where he has had the gen-
eral management of Ms insurance company up to the time of
his death, which occurred in the year 1910.
The Bankers Life was a mutual insurance company, and
under the management of Mr. Temple it became popular, and
soon built up a large business. Mr. Temple lived and died in
the full belief that the plan of insurance originated by him,
would be lasting, but the old line insurance authorities have
claimed, and still claim, that the plan adopted by Mr. Temple
was not sound, and that time would demonstrate this fact.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 117
It seems that tlic jn-eseiit managers of the Bankos Life
have also concluded that it would be best to change its original
plan, and it is understood that the policies now issued Ijv that
company, are founded on wdiat is called, "old line insurance."
Of course, this change Avill not aft'ect any policies issued i^rior
thereto. The company is still regarded as substantial and
entirely safe, and its business is managed by reliable men,
who have the confidence of the public.
When Mr. Temple resigned his position as cashier of the
First National Bank of Chariton, Frank R. Crocker, who
had spent his boyhood in the bank, became its cashier, and in
fact its general manager, although he was never elected or
appointed to such position. He was pleasant, agreeable and
very liberal in conducting the bank, and soon acquired the
confidence of the people, and became the most popular man
in the county.
While at length rumors were heard that perhaps he was
engaged in wild schemes of speculation that might affect the
financial standing of himself and the bank, yet his friends
refused to listen to such iiimors, and he continued to control
the banking business of the county up to the very day that
the bank was closed by direction of the comptroller of the
currency.
On October 31, 1907, the government bank examiner came
to Chariton to examine the banks. On that night Mr. Crocker
took poison, and on the next morning he w^as found dead in
his bed.
The records of the bank, and letters found in the bank to
several of his friends, developed the fact that the l^ank was
then, and for two years previous thereto, had been hopelessl}^
insolvent. He had induced the head banker of an insurance
organization, known as the Modern A¥oodmen of America,
to deposit over one hundred thousand dollars of its funds in
his bank. For a while the bondsmen of Mr. Crocker resisted
the action of this company to recover such deposit, claiming,
that the fact that he would agree to receive and pay interest
on such a large sum of money, was, of itself, sufficient evidence
to put said head banker upon inquiry, as to Mr. Crocker's
authority to receive such deposit, and if he had made any
inquiry he would have ascertained that he had no such
authority, but this controversy was compromised.
118 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
Mr. Crocker was misled by his success. He had had the
entire management of this bank for several years, and he
never wanted money that he could not obtain it. Tie was
deceived by the prospects of a coal mine located at Lucas.
Mr. H. L. Byers had organized a company to operate this
mine, and was engaged in the operation thereof. Coal mining
experts had decided that this mine contained a large amount
of valuable coal, and Mr. Crocker was led to believe that he
could easily make a fortune by investment therein. Hence
he undertook to meet the pay rolls of a large force of miners,
engaged in work at this mine. After thus using about fifty
thousand dollars of the bank's money in the operation of
said mine, it was discovered that the coal was limited in quan-
tity, and of a very poor quality, and that his large investment
therein was a complete loss.
Having in this way become financially embarrassed he
seemed to have concluded that he could not, by any legitimate
banking business make up such loss, and like too many other
men in like circumstances, he seemed to have concluded that
the only plan he could adopt, with the hope of success, was
to invest large sums of money on the board of trade and in
stocks and bonds. At first, perhaps unfortunately for him,
his investments were successful. He realized several thousand
dollars profits by investing large sums in the bonds of the
Japanese Government, a short time before the great naval
battle of Japan with Russia, and the sudden rise in the market
value of such bonds, following said Japanese victory, made
him many thousands of dollars. This success evidently en-
couraged him to make many other large investments in stocks
and bonds, which, in the end, resulted in his complete financial
ruin, and in the ruin of said bank.
It is simply another illustration of the fact, that such in-
vestments amount to gam])ling, and the chances are nine out of
ten, that the party engaging therein, will in the end lose all
of the monev that he invests, and much more.
THE CHARITON NATIOXAL BANK
In 1872 W. C. Penick, H. H. Day, and Elijah Copeland,
a partnership, organized a private bank, called the Chariton
Bank. After operating it for a few years, it passed into the
ownership of Manning & Penick, a partnership composed of
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 119
Edwin Manning, of Keosauqua, Iowa, and W. C. Penick of
Chariton. Mr. Manning acted as president, and Mr. Penick
as cashier, and afterwards, about the year 1900, it was orga-
nized as a national bank, under the name of the "Chariton
National Bank," wdth W. C. Penick as president and H. O.
Penick as cashier.
It is now under the management of J. C. Copeland as its
president. Mr. Copeland has the confidence of the people,
and the bank is doing a large business.
THE LUCAS COUNTY NATIONAL BANK
The Lucas County National Bank w^as organized about
December, 1907, after the failure of the First National Bank
of Chariton, by L. Bussell, Elijah Copeland, William Eiken-
berry, Samuel McKlveen and others. Having secured the
building and valuable bank fixtures and furniture, thereto-
fore owned and used bv said First National Bank, thev, in a
short time, secured a reasonable share of the banking business
of the county, and their bank is now universally regarded as
a conservative, and a well managed organization.
THE STATE SAVINGS BANK
About the year 1900 J. A. Brown, Dr. J. A. McKlveen, S.
H. Mallory, and other citizens of Chariton, organized a sav-
ings bank, under the statute of the state, called the ''State
Savings Bank." Its present officers are, J. A. Brown, presi-
dent, and R. E. Jackson, cashier. A¥e now have three con-
servative and well managed banks in Chariton, each of them
possessing the confidence of the public.
WOMEN'S CLUBS
We are led to believe, that comparatively few persons
fully appreciate the great advantages to the county, and
especially to the women of the country, from the organization
and operation of these clubs.
We are informed that there are now about twent^^-one of
these clubs in our little citv of Chariton. The oldest club in
the count}^, and in fact the second oldest in the state, is mod-
estly named, "The Women's History Club," and its members
120 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
can talk ancient history as readih^ as a school girl would
repeat the alphabet. They would be recognized as educated
^vomen in any circle. For years they have had regular courses
of studv. Thev are not onlv benefited bv their own reading
and study, but in the club they derive benefit from the reading,
study and researches made by their club sisters. We must
bear in mind, that the mature woman, would at one session
of her Chautauc[ua, obtain clearer ideas of history, than that
gained by the ordinary school girl in her class recitations
for months. The benefit to hei', gained in her association with
her club sisters, and in their discussions of interesting mat-
ters of history is simply incalculable.
For instance, take the ordinar}^ school girl of thirty or
forty years ago. She did not have the advantages of a col-
legiate education. After attending the public school of that
day, which was not near as good as the high school of today,
she too often settled down to the drudgery of married life,
without the time or opportunity of mental improvement.
Her time and energies were devoted to her duties as a wife
and mother. After years she joined a history club, and a
new world was opened to her. She soon became interested
in her club work, and surprised at the ease with which she
could and did comiDrehend the history of the world, she also
became justly proud of her knowledge of the history of today,
and the questions in politics, religion, and life which the
people of today are interested in.
It may be true that she is not permitted to vote, but John
has awakened to tlie fact that in some manner, or for some
reason that he does not fully comprehend, he is voting, espe-
cially on all moral questions, just as Margaret would have him
vote. The real fact is that, by knowledge and information
which she has acquired from her club, she has quietly passed
from an ignorant school girl, to the position of an educated
woman, a companion and valuable adviser for her husband
in relation to many important questions, and her unselfish
advice has been of great value to him. But, perhaps, the
greatest benefit or advantage incident to her club life, is found
in her preparation to advise and direct her children, her sons
and daug'hters. By and in the review of the topics of the
day, she necessarily becomes familiar with the present day
questions and problems, and no such unselfish adviser of her
sons and daughters can be found. In fact, her influence on
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 121
her busl)and and her family, and the community in which she
lives becomes a power for good.
The history of the Federation of Women's Clubs is inter-
esting. In March, 1868, the Press Club of New York was
offering to Charles Dickens a complimentary dinner. Jennie
June, at that time a well-known author and newspaper writer,
requested a ticket. A churlishl}^ worded refusal to admit her,
because she was a woman, as well as to admit other women of
some literary aliility, brought into existence the first woman's
club, the Sorosis. Alice Cary was its first president. Phoebe
Cary, Kate Field of the Tiibune, and Jennie June of tlie
World, were among the first members. Many were the argu-
ments against the adyisability of women belonging to clubs;
most of them based on the neglected children and disorderly
home, so the conflict of opinion among the public so wore
upon the neryes of the first president that she resigned at
the end of a week.
It was to celebrate the 21st anniyersary of its founding that
a call was made by Sorosis, in a conyention of clubs through-
out the United States, to be held in New York, March 1, 1889.
Sixty-one of a possible seyenty-fiye clubs sent delegates, and
a year later, a ratification conyention for the constitution of
the general federation of women's clubs was held in New
York, and the first list of national officers was elected: Mrs.
Charlotte Emmerson Brown, Mrs. May Wright Sewall,
Jennie June, Mrs. Ma,y B. Tempel, and Mrs. Phoebe A.
Hearst. The membership is made up of woman's clubs, state
federations, territorial federations and kindred organizations.
No organization is admitted which requires any sectarian or
political test of membership, nor is a secret society. None of
its members may be affiliated with any organization which
rof|uires any violation of national or state laws.
The first national convention was held in 1892, Chicago,
St. Louis, Philadelphia, Louisville; Denver, Milwaukee, Los
Angeles, St. Paul, Boston and Cincinnati having in turn
served as hostesses.
Besides the work done dii'ectly through state committees,
the federation has its national department of art, civics, civil
service, reform, conversation, education, household economics,
industrial and social conditions, legislation, literature, library
extension, music and public health.
122 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
It lias a bureau of information which between two bien-
nials sent out 2,200 letters, more than 6,000 packages, books
and material. Clubs aj^ply to the bureau for study outlines,
and are pro^dded from a collection of -iOO outlines on differ-
ent subiects sent to the bureau throuaii the ^'enerositT of the
individual clubs and club women editors and publishers.
The chairmen of the citizens' committee, when welcoming
the delegates, in 1910, at Cincinnati said. "When we invited
YOU to hold your meeting in Cincinnati, we men knew as much
about a biennial as we did about 'Halley's comet.* and cared
less, and probably the women in general knew but little more.
Yet of all large organizations its influence can be and is most
potently felt. Thei-e are fifty state federations, 6,000 clubs,
470,000 active members, 500,000 affiliated members, women of
personality, wit, skill and wealth, who are united from diverse
-social environments, creeds, enthusiasm and prejudices, in the
genera] body of definite aims. Xo wonder the pure food bill
passed, after the pressure they brought to bear. It is their
"unity in diversity'* (the federation motto), the remarkable
team work that must redoimd to the credit of their impetuous
womanhood. The wonderful growth and remarkable strength
of federated clubs give them \'ast powers and when they unite
upon a demand for legislation, grave senators must sit up
and look around. They are daily increasing in political power
and the time is perhaps not far distant when every reasonable
demand made by them must be obeyed. Nothing will check
their growing power, unless it be in making some unreason-
able demand."
Thus far this organization has been conducted with re-
markable skill and ability, especially in ^-iew of the fact that
in the beginning women were comparatively ignorant of the
political or legislative powers of our government, but the wis-
dom they have exercised in proceeding on consers'ative lines,
has thus far protected them from the charge of acting hastily
and without due consideration in bringing about the refomis
which they have espoused. Their history has thus far called
the attention of the country to many women who have ex-
"hibited the learning and ability to fill civic positions of almost
any kind in the affairs of our government, with honor to
themselves and credit to the countrv.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 123
THE D. A. Pw
There is another woman's club that deserves special men-
tion, and that is the D. A. R., or the Daughters of the Amer-
ican Revolution. While this is a national organization, yet it
has a local chaj^ter at Chariton, that certainly deserves credit
for their enthusiastic and patriotic work. This chapter has
a membershop of about forty. Its present officers are Mrs.
Lillian Howard, regent; ^liss Lola Steel, ^i.ce regent: Mrs.
Dora Custer, registrar; Mrs. L. R. Gibbon, secretary and
treasurer.
Mrs. Sarah M. Stuart, its former regent, was active in
building up the chapter at Chariton, and in attending the state
conferences at Des Moines. She is the author of the oath of
allegiance which has been introduced in many of the public
schools of Iowa.
The national organization built and oAvued what is called
the Continental Hall, at Washington, D. C. It is located on
17th street, near the Carnegie Hall of Pan American union.
It is the largest and most costly builcling ever erected by
women, and the financial maiiagement thereof has been con-
ducted with remarkable skill and ability. This was done under
the supervision of the president general, Mrs. Mathen T.
Scott.
The continental congTess of this society convenes in this
hall annually. The congress is composed of all the officers
of the organization. The Chariton chapter has members who
reside outside of the countv, amono; whom is Mrs. Horace
Towner. She was the delegate from this chapter to congTess
in 1912, and she is also a member of the International Peace
Committee.
The national society was incorporated in 1895, under the
administration of Grover Cleveland. The act of incorpora-
tion was sig-ned by Grover Cleveland. Thomas B. Reed,
speaker of the House of Representatives, and A. E. Stephen-
son, president of the senate.
THE CHARITOX FIRE COMPAXY
We have a volunteer fire company of which every citizen
is proud. It was organized about the year 1875, and it has
fought every fire that has occurred in Chariton since its orsra-
124 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
nizatioii, without reward or the hope thereof, except the sat-
isfaction which its members may have in the protection of
the property of their neighbors and friends.
This company is made up of 3'oung men, volunteers, of
Chariton, who promptly respond to ever}^ call of the fire bell.
They have never demanded or received any compensation for
their services. The company is regularly organized, having
a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, a fire marshal
and other minor officers.
The firemen's banquets, dances and other entertainments,
are the best attended functions in the city, and they frequently
realize several hundred dollars at such entertainments.
The city has provided an excellent fire engine and a com-
plete hook and ladder outfit for their use. For a while the
citv undertook to furnish them with horses, but for the last
ten years they have adopted a different plan. It is generally
understood that the city will pay a sum of $5.00 or $10.00 for
the first team that reaches their engine and hook and ladder
wagon when a fire call is made. This plan is found to work
entirely satisfactory, and saves the city the large expense of
keeping an expensive team of horses continually.
The citv owns its citv hall, and the lot on which it is built.
About twenty-five years ago it purchased a lot. and built a
comfortable city hall thereon, having room for the transac-
tion of all city business in the second story, and ample room
fo]' its fire engine and hook and ladder outfit below, but soon
after the first house was completed it Avas destroyed by fire,
and then the present building was built, which is very much
like the first one.
^ NEWSPAPERS
The following eloquent notice of ncAvspapers will bear
republication :
"The newspaper has risen in this busy age to a position
second to no other interests. It is the best and most valuable
of libraries. Its cheapness is one strong point in its favor. It
finds entrance into homes, no matter how moderate, and goes,
as a rule, where books rarely do. It comes daily and weekly.
It is read and loaned. Caught up and read for a moment,
giving knowledge to the reader ; a single item frequently giv-
ing what pages of book matter would have to be waded
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 125
through to learn. The newsiDaj^ers, with the present facilities
for almost instantly learning what is happening in every por-
tion of the habitable globe, is the reflection of the hour equally
as much as of the past ages. By it the north and the south,
the east and the west, are brought together. We know of the
crashing of the ice and the curling heat of the sun; of the
massing of the snow and the rushing of great waters ; we are
with the gi'cat explorer seeking for the north pole ; travel
through the jungles of Africa; have a bii'd's eye view of great
battles ; sail over every sea ; dive with the whale into the
fabulous dej^ths; are present in the parliament of nations;
listen to the last wT)rds of a dying potentate, and take by the
hand his successor.
" A wonderfully concise, most skillfully painted, panorama
of the affairs of the world is the new^spaper; a map of its
busy life ; a faithful reproduction of all its lights and shadows,
and at the most nominal cost ; at the merest bagatelle to books,
even in these days of exceptional cheapness. Week after week
the paper comes, filled with new, rare, interesting and instruc-
tive literature. It is a history of nations in fiftv-two volumes ;
an ever continued encyclopedia of trade, science, biography,
agriculture and the arts ; it is the "boiling down, of all books,"
in so minute a form that the mind can grasp at a single glance
and be saved the trouble of w^ading through ponderous volumes
of uninteresting detail, to the great saving of time. It is in
fact the grandest of all circulating libraries at only a penny
fee; the throwing open to the public of all the costly and
exclusive archives of the w^orld. The new^spaper of today is
a perfect omnium gatherum. Nothing escapes its notice.
Every event of importance is instantly photographed upon
its pages. The wdiispers breathed in every clime are caught
and fixed. It is a marvel of intelligence; the stereotype of
every mind. We look back in WT)nder at the days wdien it was
not, and human intelligence shudders to think of the bar-
barism and ignorance and superstition that w^ould follow
the blotting out of this the sun of the solar system .
"Much is said of the power of the press, of the privileges of
the press, the prerogatives of the press, and the perfection of
the press, through a long catalogue of virtues. To earn these
positions the press has duties to perform. One is to give the
new^s and comment intelligently thereon. Second to be truthful
and unprejudiced, for npwsi)apers have ceased to be private
126 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
enterprises merely. The power they have attained makes them
amenable to the same laws as railroads and telegraphs. When
the newspaper steps outside of its general functions, and for
personal spite or greediness attacks the character, life or serv-
ices of any citizen, or assaults any interest of the community,
it should be held to strict accounta])ilitv bv law, as well as bv
an enlightened public sentiment. Third, to suggest that, which
if followed out, will make news. For instance, thoughts con-
cerning the development of business possibilities ; the starting
of factories, the building of railroads, the beautifying of the
town, the improving of schools, the bettering of public man-
ners, and if need be, of morals also ; the relief of the poor, as
well as the scores of other questions in all the ramification of
events, political, industrial, commercial, social, religious and
moral. ' '
Notwithstandiug the many good ideas set forth in the fore-
going article, yet the writer has made the very common mis-
take of imagining that he knows just exactly how a paper
should be conducted. A great many people are entirely will-
ing to advise editors just how to conduct their papers, free of
charge, and a great many people imagine that the chief object
in conducting a paper is to publish anything and everything
which anyone may desire to have j^ublished, free of charge.
They seem to think that an editor is delighted to be given the
opportunity to publish notices and articles on any subject
without thinking of making any charge therefor. They help
to fill up his paper, and cost him nothing except a small sum
for labor and material to set up and print the same. If the
writer were going to try to advise newspaper men as to the
best way for them to conduct their papers, he would say to
them, publish a price list for all kinds of work that he may be
called upon to perform, on the first page of his paper, and
thereby correct the general impression that his position re-
quires him to work for nothing and furnish without charge all
materials needed.
THE LITTLE GIANT
The first paper ever published in Lucas county was called
The Little Giant, in honor of the illustrious democratic senator
from the state of Illinois, Stephen A. Douglas. As a debater,
Stephen A. Douglas had few equals, and perhaps no superior.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 127
He was a candidate for the democratic nomination for presi-
dent in 1860, but he made the mistake of introducing into the
senate of the United States a bill which reopened the slavery
question. This was a bill to organize the territories of
Nebraska and Kansas, abrogating what was known as the
Missouri Compromise of 1850, and in its place asserting what
he named "Squatter Sovereignty." The measure known as
the Compromise Measure of 1850 contained the following pro-
vision: "That all the territor}^ lying north of a defined line,
running east and west along the northern boundary of the
State of Missouri, should forever remain free — in which invol-
untary servitude should never exist. ' ' While the people of the
northern states were opposed to human slavery in am^ form,
yet as Mr. Lincoln defined their position, they recognized the
fact that under the Constitution of the United States slaverv
legally existed in certain states, and the government had no
l^ower or authority to abolish it in such states, but the position
of Mr. Lincoln was, that the general Government had the
power and legal right to prevent the spread of that system
into other states or territories. He claimed that this was the
13oli(\v of the founders of the United States. That while the
Government could not abolish slavery in the states wherein it
existed, yet it could and should, by proper legislation, pi'event
the admission of any more slave states, and it was the general
understanding of the northern people that this doctrine was
finall}^ settled by said Compromise Measure of 1850. Mr.
Douglas, by an amendment to said bill, thus announced his
doctrine of squatter sovereignt}^, which he thought would
secure for himself the solid vote of the South for the presi-
dency. He claimed "that the Comj^romise Measure of 1850
was void and inoperative for the reason that it was inconsist-
ent with the principles of slavery in the states and territories
as recognized in and by that same measure," and declaring it
to be "the true intent and meaning of this measure not to
legislate slavery into any state or territory, nor to exclude it
therefrom, but to leave the people thereof perfectly free to ^
form and regulate their domestic institutions in their oAvn
way, subject only to the Constitution of the United States."
This measure was plausible on its face, but it was not popu-
lar in either section. North or South. The abolitionists, and
by this time the great majority of the northern people bitterly
condemned this measure as unnecessarily reopening the
128 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
slavery question and making it possible for the admission of
more slave states. The South opposed this bill on principle.
Jefferson Davis, then a senator from the State of Mississippi,
thus stated the claims of the South. He said in substance,
that slaves were recognized as property by the Constitution
of the United States and the supreme court of the United
States, and hence the slave holder had the same right to take
and hold his slaves as propert}^ in any territory as the northern
farmer had to take and hold his horses and cattle in such
territory. That it became and was the duty of the general
Government to protect the slave owner in his slave property
the same as it would protect the owner of horses and cattle
therein. This doctrine of squatters sovereignty seemed plaus-
ible, and in the hands of such a skilled legislator as was Ste-
phen A. Douglas, it can readily be seen how he could and did
convince a large faction of his party that he was in the right,
and the debate over this question ended in the Civil war,
Mr. Lincoln exposed the fallacy of this doctrine by calling-
attention to the legal difference between slave propert}^ and
other forms of property. Slavery could not exist under the
common law, nor under the law of nature ; it could not exist
in the absence of local or statutory law creating and protecting
it. Prior to what was called the "Dred Scott Decision," no
court of any country had ever held that men could be held as
slaves in any state or territory where there was no law creat-
ing or protecting it. Freedom is the natural condition. Slavery
in human beings has no foundation except in statutory law.
The Little Giant was short lived. Its proprietor, George
M. Binckly, abandoned its publication and started another
])aper here which he called "The Chariton Mail." This paper
was also short lived. A. C. Camei'on and W. T. Wade after-
wards became interested in this paper, ])ut for some reason
unknown at this time, the Giant and the Mail were both aban-
doned. John Edwards and F. M. Fairbrothor then founded
THE CHARITOX TATRIOT
in 1857. This was the first republican paper published in
Lucas county. It has been a consistent political paper ever
since. In the year 1898 Mr. S. M. Green, proprietor of a
Chariton paper known as the Herald, purchased the Chariton
Patriot and combined the two, issuing what is called the Her-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 129
aid-Patriot. The following is a list of the men who have acted
as editor of the Patriot at different times: John Edwards,
Val Mendell, Chas. Austin, Eugene Fawcett, J. W. Ragsdale,
Geo. H. liagsdale, E. B. Woodward, T. M. Stuart, Moses Fol-
som, Elija Lewis, and S. M. Green, and the present editor and
proprietor is N. D. Junkin.
We find among the records of the Lucas County Historical
Society the following partial history of the Chariton Herald :
"The Chariton Herald completes sixteen years of existence
today, November 24, 1898, and will begin next w^eek on a Vol-
ume XVII, Number 1. During the sixteen years of its life
the Herald has changed hands several times, so it has not had
time to stagnate. The present owner, Samuel M. Green,
bought the Herald of R. W. Bruce on last April 29. As nearly
as we can compile a history from the records at hand, the life
of the paper has been as follows :
"On September 25, 1885, it w^as established by J. D. Hull
as a five-column quarto non-partisan paper, 'independent of
any man, party, clique, or race.' Mr. Hull sold the paper on
November 4, 1886, to J. Lee Brown, state auditor, who con-
ducted it in a fearless manner, and enlarged it to a six-column
quarto about a year later. On January 1, 1890, Mr. Brown
consolidated it with the Lucas Ledger, and issued it in this
way until April of the following year. It was sold to Chas.
D. Brown & Co., on August 20, 1891, and on October 12, 1893,
a half interest was sold to Ed. A. Brewster, of Creston, who
remained with the paper only a few months. April 7, 1898,
Walter Dewey, now^ editor of the Chariton Democrat, and
Harry H. Crenshaw% of Albia, bought the paper. They
thought to run an independent sheet, but it did not seem to
w^ork as well as a partisan paper, so on November 24, 1898, the
partners sold to R. W. Bruce, of Leon, wdio edited the paper
until it was bought by the present owmer, four months ago
today."
THE CHARITON LEADER
The Chariton Leader, a democratic paper, was first pub-
lished under the name of "The Chariton Democrat," in the
year 1867. John V. Faith w^as its editor and proprietor. He
was an active enterprising newspaper man, but lacked discre-
tion as an editor. About the year 1898 the name of the paper
130 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
was changed to that of ' ' The Leader. ' ' The following are the
names of its different editors, viz. : John Y. Faith, Clint
Pankhurst, Best & Axlin, N. B. Branner, D. M. Baker, F. Q.
Stuart, W. H. Dewey, and its present editor and proprietor,
H. W. Gittiugei". The Leader has been a consistent democratic
paper all of its life, but it has avoided partisanship under its
present management.
Henry Gittinger is a born newspaper man- He is noted
for his fair treatment of friend and foe. He is kind, genial
and jovial, but woe to the man, men, or party who would seek
to influence his action contrary to his ideas of justice and
right.
Dan Baker, a former editor of the Leader, was regarded
as one of the best local editors in the state. His goodnatured,
bright and witty locals, attracted attention all over the state.
The people of Lucas county are justly proud of their
papers, the Leader and the Llerald-Patriot, and their weekly
record of current events makes them indispensable.
In this connection it ma}^ be in order to call attention to
the following historical facts in reference to newspapers. The
first paper published in the United States was the Colonial
Press, of Boston. The first political iDaper was the New York
Journal, 1733. The first daily paper was the Philadelphia
Advertiser. The first religious paper was the Record, pub-
lished at Chillicothie, Ohio, 1814. The first agricultural paper
was the American Farmer, published at Baltimore, 1818. The
first commercial paper, the Price Current, was published at
New Orleans, 1822. The first funny paper was the Morning
Post published at New York, 1833. The first independent
paper, the Herald, was published at New York, 1835. The
first illustrated pai)er, the News, was published at Boston,
1853. The first religious daily paper was the Witness, pub-
lished at New York, 1870. The first illustrated religious paper,
the Weekly, was published at New York in 1871. The first
paper west of the Mississippi river, the Republican, was pub-
lished at St. Louis, 1808. The first illustrated daily in the
world, the Graphic, was published at New York, 1873. The
first woman's rights paper, the Lilly, was published at Seneca
Falls, N. Y., in 1847. The Lilly was founded by Mrs. Ame-
lia Bloomer, afterwards a resident of Council Bluffs, Iowa,
and it flourished for six vears.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 131
THE CRIMINAL HISTORY OF THE COUNTY
While the criminal history of Lucas county is brief, it
includes a few cases of homicide, which at the time shocked
the community, and created great excitement. During the
'80 's there were a good many cases of horse stealing, and
if there is anything that will exasperate farmers, it is the
stealing of their horses. One case that ver}^ much shocked the
people of Chariton was the shooting of Gaylord Lyman, sheriff
of the countv. Lvman had served one term as sheriff of the
county and was a candidate for a second term. His competitor
claimed that on account of Lyman's good nature and his easy
way of getting along with criminals, he was unfitted for the
position of sheriff', and that perhaps he did not have the cour-
age to handle horse thieves and desperadoes which at that
time infested the country. This was a mistake ; no more
courageous man lived than Gavlord Lvman. While he was
quiet and avoided all difficulties with every person, yet very
few men possessed greater courage than he did.
A few days prior to his death, he received a letter from
some place in northern Missouri, containing an account of the
stealing of a very fine horse. This letter particularly de-
scribed the horse, and the supposed thief, and requested Mr.
Lyman to keep watch for him.
A few days after receiving this letter he noticed a stranger
riding a horse along the streets of Chariton, and the horse at-
tracted his attention, as it seemed to fill the description of the
stolen horse. He followed this fellow until he came to a black-
smith's shop, where he alighted and asked the blacksmith to
shoe his horse. While the blacksmith was preparing to shoe
the horse, Lyman got into a conversation with the thief and
asked him several questions, inquiring where he was from and
where he got the horse. The fellow soon became satisfied that
Lyman was an officer, and he avoided his questions in such
manner as to convince Lyman that he had stolen the horse, and
that he was the very man described in the letter he had
received. Lyman then frankly told him about the receipt of
the letter, and informed him that it was his duty to arrest him,
and he was going to do so. The thief then drew a revolver and
told L^onan that he would shoot him if he attempted to arrest
him. L}Tiian then approached him sa^dng, ' ' I guess you would
not shoot," but the thief, after retreating a few steps, shot
Vol. I— 8
132 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
L\Tiian, the ball entering his left breast, and he died from the
effects of this wound about 8 o'clock the same evening.
As soon as he shot Lyman the thief ran out of the black-
smith's sho23 and turned down an alley, going east towards the
timber, which was about half a mile from town. As he ran
down the allev the fellow drew a knife and cut the harness
from a horse that was hitched to a wagon and tied in the alley.
Getting on this horse he rode east until he came to the timber.
He there jumped oft' the liorse and was soon hid in the timber
and brush. Two or three parties reached him about the time
that he was releasing the horse, but drawing his revolver he
comj^elled them to retreat. A large numl^er of men and boys
followed the thief to the timber, and after searching through
the brush and timber for him, from one until four o'clock,
they were about to give up the chase, as they concluded that
he had escaped, and they turned and started towards town,
when a young man named Martin discovered the thief lying
down in the hazel brush. Martin proceeded to arrest him.
The fellow tried to shoot Martin, but being a large stout man,
Martin at once caught his arm and hand in wliich he held the
revolver and threw him down. Others came to Martin's relief
and the thief was overpowered, handcuffed and brought to
town.
When he arrived in town a large crowd, wild with excite-
ment, gathered around him and insisted on hanging him.
Someone procured a rope and the cry, "Hang him, hang him,"
was taken up by a hundred men. However, several citizens,
chief amcmg them being O. L. Palmer, a merchant of Chariton,
protested against this proposition to hang the thief. He
talked earnestly to this crowd of mad men. He called the
attention of the croAvd to the fact that this man was then in
their power and could not escape. He would be tried and con-
victed, and to hang him under the circumstances would l)e a
cowardly criminal act, and a disgrace to our toAvn and county.
To make such a speech under the circumstances to that body of
mad men was a courageous act.
The crowd for the time seemed to abandon the idea of
hanging the thief. However they made no promises, but sul-
lenly moved around in such manner as to leave the impression
that it was only a question of time when they would carry out
their threats to hang him.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 138
Mr. Lymaii having expressed the desire that the thief
should come to see him, he was taken down to the house where
Jjvman was Iving. Lvman aslved him whv he shot him. He
replied that he had been drinking, and that he was drunk when
he shot. He asked Lyman to forgive him, and Lyman did so,
in such a manner as to convince every one who heard him of
his sincerity, and actual sorrow for the thief. Some members
of the Vigilant (\)mmittee had told Lvman that the thief
would be hung that night.
The thief was then taken back to the court house and
placed in a small I'oom, which was carefully guarded until
about nine o'clock, when the bell announcing the death of
Lyman rang out, and the mob gathered together and went to
the courthouse, broke doA\'n the doors of the room in which the
thief was kept, and after placing a rope around his neck, took
him to an upper room in the courthouse, and after fastening
the end of the rope to some object there, they pushed the thief
(ait of an upper window, where he hung until an undertaker
cut him down.
The question may be asked. Why did this thief shoot
L}mian? While he may have been drinking, he was not so
drunk but that he knew just what he was doing when he fired
the fatal shot. He must also have known that he would cer-
tainly be caught and punished for murder when he fired that
shot. Why then, we rei)eat, would he do it"^ The answer is
found in the fact that such characters regard an officer who
undertakes to arrest them, as a personal enemy, seeking to
deprive them of their liberty. If he reasoned at all at the
moment that he fired this shot, he reasoned in this way : "This
man is trying to place me in prison for life, he will laugh
about his success in causing me to languish in a dungeon for
perhaps all of my life," and with this thought came the mali-
cious impulse to kill, that is, kill the man who was doing him
this gTeat wrong. In this momentary wave of malice, he lost
sight of the wrong he was doing, and the punishment that
would surely follow his act.
THE ARCHIBALD CASE
Another case, interesting in the legal question involved
therein, was that of the State of Iowa vs. Thomas Kelley and
his wife. Thev were indicted for the murder of an old Irish-
134 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
man named Archibald. Archibald was an old bachelor, who
lived by himself in Chariton. He was the owner of the little
jiroperty on which he lived, and he also had about $1,000 in
money, which he kept secreted on his person. He was quite a
miser and would frequently beg a meal of victuals, secreting
the fact, as much as he could, that he had money. He would
frequently ask an acquaintance for money to buy his dinner.
Just across the street from where he lived, there lived an
Irish family named Kelley.
Thomas Kelley and his wife, Margaret Kelley, constituted
the family. Thomas Kelley was a great drunkard, and it
was said that his wife could drink about as much whiskey as
he could. The Kellevs knew that Archibald had this monev
and that he kept it secreted on his i3erson. Archil^ald was
frequently at their house, and they were frequently at his
house. Mrs. Kelley desired to visit her people in Washing-
ton citv, but she did not have the monev necessarv to make
this trip, and it was believed by the people of Chariton who
were best acquainted with her that she induced her husband
to murder Archibald to get this money that she might take
this trip to Washington. Alioiit eight o'clock that night they
induced the old man, Archibald, to visit them. While he was
sitting in a chair in the sitting room of their house, near a
trap door which led to a cellar below, Kelley struck him with
a large soldering iron, crushing his skull and instantly killing
him. They then placed him in the cellar.
Mrs. Kelley went out to invite a few friends to come in
and play cards. They came, and the Kelleys having a large
supply of whiskey, the game of cards continued quite late
at night. When the two friends afterward learned that old
man Archibald's body was in the cellar, while they were play-
ing cards above him, they were greatly shocked.
Tom Kelley was thoroughly drunk the next morning when
he was seen by a neighbor at Archibald's house, rapping at
the door and window, and hallooing to Archibald to get up.
He was drunk enough to believe that this circumstance would
tend to show innocence on his part when it was discovered,
as he knew it surely would be discovered that Archibald had
been murdered.
In the morning Mrs. Kelley was seen sweeping the yard in
front of her house, especially the path leading to the outside
gate, and some person in passing along the street noticed that
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 135
there was distinct evidence of something- having been dragged
in the dnst across the street from the Kelley house towards
Archibald's home. Someone having occasion to call on Archi-
bald, went to Ins house and on opening the door found him lying
on his bed, dead. Quite a crowd of neighbors immediately
gathered at the Archil )a Id house and the evidences that a mur-
der had been connnitted were so plain that they began search-
ing for his mone,v. Having searched Kelley 's house and fail-
ing to find the monev there, some bovs entered a small coal
house on Kelley 's lot, and there they found the money, $1,000
in bills, it having been placed in a tin can and covered over
with fine coal.
Kelley and his wife were both indicted and the evidence
was so strong and clear to the jury that it did not hesitate to
find them guilty of murder in the first degree, and they were
both sentenced to imprisonment in the penitentiar)^ for life.
But their counsel, Mitchell & Penick, interposed the plea for
Mrs. Kelley that all that she had to do in the killing of Archi-
bald was done in the presence of her husband, and the pre-
sumption of law was, that she acted under compulsion of her
husband, and hence could not be convicted of the crime. This
being a well-established rule of common law, the supreme court
of Iowa, on her appeal, released her, and the last heard of her
she was going on her contemplated visit to her relation at
Washington city.
This was the first and only case in the State of Iowa that
the supreme court has been called to pass on the question, and
while her defense seems to be founded on a well-established
rnle of law, yet quite a number of people of Chariton, who
knew the Kelleys best, fully believe that she was a greater
criminal than her drunken husband, Tom Kelley.
THE GOLDWATEE CASE
The next homicide committed in the county was the killing
of a tramp who was traveling around the country engaged in
sharpening scissors or shears for a li^dng.
He visited the restaurant of a party named Goldwater,.
and upon having some trouble with Goldwater, he went out-
side the building and threw a brick against the window, badly
breaking the same, whereupon Goldwater became angry, and
rush in 2: out of his restaurant shot him two or three times, and
136 PAST AND FUESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
he died the next day from the effect of such shots. Of course
this was homicide coimiiitted in the heat of passion, and Gokl-
water was promptly convicted of manslaughter and sentenced
to the penitentiary. While this was not a deliberate homicide,
it showed that Goldwater, like too many men, strike or shoot
in the heat of passion, regardless of the consequences. The
idea of killing a man for breaking a window shows an utter
disregard for human life.
THE DERBY STATE BANK ROBBERY
The next crime of any magnitude was the recent case of
the robbery of the State Bank of Derby, which occurred in
1912, on the night of November 24th. Some person or per-
sons entered the State Bank of Derby, and by the aid f>f
explosives of some kind, blew open the safe and took from it
the siun of about $4,000 in currency and gold, leaving a few
hundred dollars of silver money scattered around over the
floor. Strange to say, no one heard the explosion, and no one
liad any idea that the bank had been robbed until the cashier
of the bank opened its door about seven o'clock the next morn-
ing. The parties committing this crime were evidently experts
in the use of explosives. What they did to drown the noise,
no one knows, but parties in houses not far from the bank did
not hear the explosion at all. The fact that the l)ank had
been robbed was immediately spread over the country by
telegrams, and about one week after the robbery three j^arties
were arrested in Omaha, charged with this crime. They we]'(3
brought to Chariton, indicted and ccmvicted. Although the
jury did not hesitate to find them guilty on circumstantial
evidence alone, yet a great many peo]^le who heard the trial
claim that the evidence was insufficient to convict them, and
their attorneys have appealed the case to the supreme court.
The evidence showed that these parties had l)een staying
around at Oha^'iton and Derl)y and other towns in that locality
for five or six months preceding the crime, but it was further
shown that quite a large number of idle men were in that local-
ity a good part of the smnmer, seeking employment on tlie
new Rock Island railroad, Avhich was being built through
Chariton. It was shown that these defendants had boarded
at a boarding house near the Burlington depot for several
weeks preceding the crime, that is, they would stay tliere a
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 137
few days at a time, and one of them was engaged in traveling
over the country selling threads and needles at private houses.
He was seen at Derby the day before the robbery occurred.
He was going over the town selling needles at private houses.
When he was arrested at Omaha, about one week after the
crime was committed, he had in his possession two or three
hundred dollars. He bought a suit of clothes at a clothing
store there, and the clerk who waited on him testified that he
paid for the same in new bank bills, being the bills of some
national l)ank in Iowa. It was also shown by the state
that about five hundred dollars of the money taken from the
bank was in ucav bills of the Chariton National Bank; but
the state failed to identify any of the bills found upon the
pei'son of one of the defendants as the bills of the Chariton
National Bank.
As before stated the person who sold him the articles of
clothing could not testify that the bills he used in paying
for such clothing were the bills of any particular bank. All
he could sav was that thev were new bills of some national
« «
bank in Iowa.
The strongest evidence against the defendants was the
circumstance of finding upon the person of one of these
defendants two or three hundred dollars a few^ days after
the robbery, it having been shown that this defendant was
begging money to buy his dinner a few days before he was
arrested. The fact that these fellows were tramps, and
that they were in the neighborhood of Derby selling needles
the day before the bank was robbed, was sufftcient to con-
vict them in the minds of the jury. The crime ])eing a new
one in the connnunity, created considerable interest and
feeling, and a great many persons who heard the trial seemed
satisfied that the evidence to convict them was not suf^-
cient, and that they will be acquitted by the supreme court.
But the case is interesting in showing the ease and safety
with which experts can blow open safes by the use of some
explosive. It is not known just how such fellows can drown
or hide the noise necessarily attending such an explosion,
or just how they can protect themselves from the results
thereof.
This explosion was followed by a fire, in which some
papers in the bank were burned, and some of the books were
seriously injured by the fire. It seems that the robbers
138 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
did nut stop to put out the fire and it continued to burn for
some time after they left.
If such fellows have discovered some method of drowning
or preventing the occurrence of any noise attending such
explosions, then they may safely operate or open safes in
the most public places at night, without being detected.
This bank was insured against burglary or robbery and
the bank did not lose anything.
WATERWORKS AND ELECTRIC LIGHT
For years the people of Chariton have discussed the
question of municipal ownership of waterworks and
electric light plants. Quite a large majority of the people
seem to favor municipal ownership of these utilities. The
arguments on each side are, at least, plausible. It is stren-
uously claimed on one side that the private owner of these
plants can and would operate them at a much less cost than
can be done by the city. Perhaps this is true, but if such
plants can be operated at a profit, or in such a way as to
reduce the cost of water and light to citizens, it would seem
that experience by the city in the operation of such plants
would enable it to operate the same as cheap as individuals
or companies could operate them.
One thing is sure, the city is learning something about such
plants and the operation thereof all the time. One impor-
tant thing we have learned is that we can operate both plants
together much cheaper than to operate them separately.
We can and do pump the water for the waterworks with the
same engine and by the same power used to generate electric
light.
About thirty years ago a council was elected especially
to secure electric lights. It was composed chiefly of young
men, who never had any experience in such matters, and,
of course, it made mistakes. In the first place it made a
material mistake in locating the plant some distance from
the I'ailroad, where the coal hauling became, and has been,
an important item in the cost of operating the plant. Again,
the engine proved to be too small and after a few years the
city was required to change it for one of larger capacity.
And during the last fifteen years other changes have been
made, increasing the cost of the plant. But notwithstand-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 139
ing these mistakes, which are nothing more than might have
been expected of men attempting to install such plants with-
out experience, the electric light plant has grown better and
more valuable all the time ; and in fact, there are no complaints
about the service.
Five or six years ago the city undertook to install water-
works. It obtained a bid from a Kansas City firm, which
proved to be very reasonable. In fact, this firm did not
expect to and did not make any money on this contract.
They had quite a number of expert employees, and they de-
sired to keep them to be ready for such work when it
opened up in the spring, hence they did not expect to make
money on this job, but were satisfied if they could make
enough to come out whole. They did so and the result was
that Chariton secured waterworks for about twenty thousand
dollars less money than if it had waited until spring to let
the contract.
Water was secured by sinking wells in the Chariton river
bottom, near the city, and, as before stated, it is pumped from
such wells into a large steel tank located near the city hall
by the same power that operates the electric plant.
It is claimed bv some that the water source is insufficient
or will be insufficient for a growing town, but on the other
hand it is claimed that if one well or two wells is insuffi-
cient to furnish the water required there is no reason why the
city could not install a system of wells so arranged as to
convey all the water in all of them to some central well ; how-
ever, if this is not feasible the railroad company have dem-
onstrated the fact that an abundance of good water can be
obtained by the building of a dam or reservoir across some
deep ravine near the city. Thus far one or two wells have
been sufficient to furnish all water required.
The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company
have provided a dam or reservoir whereb}^ they have se-
cured all the water they can use, and experts claim that this
company will use two or three times as much water as will
the city of Chariton.
The new St. Paul & Kansas Citv Short Line Railroad
Company are also, building an immense reservoir or dam
several miles from; their proposed depot in Chariton, where
they expect to obtain all water required for their use. This
is simply the collection of rain water in a very large bodv.
140 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
where they expect it will be kept pure by the winds and sun,
and they can see that it is protected from tilth of all kinds.
The old idea of planting trees around such artificial lakes
has long since been abandoned, in favor of the theory that
the winds and sunlight will have more to do in keeping this
hii'ge bod}^ of water pure than the presence of trees around it.
THE COUNTY POOR FARM
Perhaps the most deserving institution in the county of
Lucas is what is called the county poor farm. It lacks a
great deal of being a poor farm ; in fact, it is one of the best
snmll farms in the county. It adjoins the town of Chariton,
and with its buildings could be sold for three hundred or four
hundred dollars per acre. It consists of 200 acres of well-
improved land. The buildings on it cost the county about
twenty thousand dollars. It is pureh^ a humane institution,
made to care for the aged, and for men and women who are
unable to j)i'ovide for themselves. Such institutions now
"exist in every civilized country.
The duty of the people generally to care for people who
are no longer able to care for themselves is recognized in
every civilized country; to have people starve for want of
food, or suffer for want of clothing, would ])e a disgrace to
anv civilized communitv.
It is true that it may be humiliating to persons, espe-
cially to those who have seen better days financially, and
yet, there is another view of the question which should re-
lieve persons wh<^ are sensitive about becoming a comity
charge, and that is that their condition arose without fault
upon their part, amid the ever changing financial condition
of men, who, perhaps, have at one time been financially inde-
pendent, may have lost their property through sickness,
misfortune and in different ways, in which it can 1)e said,
that they are not to blame for their present condition. A
mistake in an investment may suddenly result in rendering
a man insolvent, where, perhaps, a few days prior to such
investment he was entirely solvent, and had ample property
to provide a home and a living for himself without the aid
of the public. Only a few months ago, an oUl man, for-
merly a successful farmer, with a well stocked farm of his
own, died as an occupant of our coimty farm. Twenty-five
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, RUSSELL
CHRISTIAN CHURCH, RUSSELL
THE ^^VW YORK
PUBL ;;RARY1
. ' IONS [
PAST AND PKESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 143
years ago he was considered a well-to-do farmer, and was
nominated by one of the political parties of the comity as a
candidate for the office of rejjresentative in our state legis-
lature. Suddenly he lost his property in the business of
buying and selling horses, and then, one by one, the differ-
ent members of his immediate family died, and after attempt-
ing for a while to live by himself, he gave it up, and applied
at the county poor farm for a home and the necessaries of
life. We understand that he took a philosophical view of
the situation, and was entirely contented and satisfied with
his home. Being of a social disposition he could and did
find persons at this county home with whom he could con-
\erse, and pleasantly pass his time, and then when he de-
sired to do so, he could walk into town and visit with his
fi'iends and acquaintances there, and this way he passed
his remaining years in contentment.
There are doubtless many persons who take this view of
this institution, and in this way the great benefit arising
from institutions of this kind is demonstrated. While, of
course, such homes are not self sustaining, for the reason
that many of their occupants are not phj^sically able to labor
or conduct the farm, yet the immense garden, cared for
largely by the labor of the occupants, does much towards
furnishing the institution all vegetables it may require or
use. However, there is sometimes some trouble in securing
a competent man for the position of superintendent of this
poor farm. It requires a man of great patience, and one
who is well supplied with common sense and tact in handling
people. A superintendent who does not possess these qual-
ities wonld likely at times meet with some difficult problems,
which, perhaps, he could not solve. We had one superin-
tendent who, becoming exasperated at the misconduct of a
patron of the institution, so far forgot himself as to assault
and strike one of the inmates of the fai'm, which resulted
in the arrest and final discharge of the superintendent.
While, of course, he was exasperated at the misconduct of
the i)arty, yet a man who could not control his own temper
was wholly unfit for that position. But, as a general rule,
our superintendents have had the disposition and ability to
fully comprehend the duties of their position, and avoid
such disQ'racefnl controversies with the inmates.
144 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
The actual cost of maiutaiuing such an institution is com-
paratively small, when we consider the vast work, and vast
good that it is doing. As an illustration of the extent of its
work its record will show a number of cases wherein stran-
gers or citizens of the county, unable to care for themselves,
upon receiving some personal injuiy, were sent to the poor
farm, where they were nursed to health by this institution,
without reward, or the hope thereof, except in the satisfac-
tion of our people in extending aid to their weak and depen-
dent fellow men.
Tom Paine expressed the thought, that as we are all the
children of God, one man could not better express his rever-
ence for his Creator or better please his Creator, than by
kindly treating one of His children.
PURCHASE OF THE POOR FARM
In 1869 the board of supervisors concluded to submit to
the voters of the county a proposition to purchase a farm
adjoining the tow^n of Chariton for a poor farm. The fol-
lowing is a copy of the
RESOLUTION
adopted by the supervisors, to wit :
"Whereas, William Skidmore oifers to sell the southeast
quarter of Section 13, Township 72 north. Range 22 west, and
also the southwest quarter of the southwest quarter of Section
18, Township 72 north. Range 21 west, for the sum of $10,-
500.00, to the county of Lucas ; and the Board of Supervisors
being fully of the opinion that said farm and buildings are
suitable for a poor farm and,
"Whereas, there are sufficient funds on hand, to pay for
the same and that there would be no additional levy necessary
to be made to pay for the same, it is therefore ordered that
the question of jjurchase be submitted to the voters of this
county for their ratification or rejection, at the general elec-
tion to be held on the 2nd Tuesdav of October, 1869."
The above report of the committee was adopted by the
board, and the proposition was sul)niitted to a vote of the
people at the time named therein with the following result:
For the purchase 801 votes.
Against the purchase 385 votes.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 145
Whereupon the purchase of said farm, on the terms above
stated, was consummated on the 18th day of October, 1869,
and William Skidmore, and his wife, America Skidmore,
executed and delivered to Lucas county a warranty deed for
the 200 acres of land al)()V(' desci'ibed, for which the countv
paid to them the consideration, of $10,500.
The same year L. Stanley was j^laced in charge of the
farm as superintendent, and remained there until March 7,
1871, when Josiah Critchfield was appointed superintendent
by the board of supervisors, who has managed the farm and
house satisfactorily.
The reports of the superintendents of this farm in and
during the years 1871 to and including the year 1880, show
the business-like manner in which this institution has* been
conducted, as follows :
1871
Number of paupers received in the house ... 18
Number died 1
Discharged 9
Number remaining 9
Receipts from the farm $ 55 . 05
Disbursements 150.00
1872
Number of paupers received 24
Number discharged 18
Receipts from farm 592 .75
Disbursements 354 . 45
For new barn 2,300.00
1873
Number of paupers received 7
Number died 2
Discharged 10
Receipts from farm 1,118.00
Disbursements 380.44
For an addition to house 650.00
146 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
1874
Number of paupers received 9
Number discharged 11
Receipts from farm 674 .09
Disbursements 763 . 58
1875
Number of paupers received 10
Discharged 3
Receipts from farm 1,048 .45
Disbursements 729 . 23
1876
Number of paupers received 22
Numbei' bom 1
Number died 2
Number discharged 19
Receipts from farm . . . , 59,205 .00
Disbursements 1,255 . 36
1877
Number of paupers received 19
Number born 3
Number died 2
Number discharged 15
Receipts from farm .' 222.77
Disbursements 1,422 .42
1878
Number paupers received 19
Number died 3
Number discharged 18
Receipts from farm 566 .35
Disbursements 988 . 55
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 147
1879
Number of paupers received 37
Number discharged 37
Number died 3
Receipts from farm 685 . 49
Disbursements 965 . 22
1880
Number paupers received 16
Number died 1
Number discharged 19
Receipts from farm 66,249 .00
Disbursements 1,081 .01
This record shows that there were only 150 paupers re-
ceived at this farm during 11 years, of whom eight were born
there. During the same time L50 were discharged, including
thirteen by death. The total expenditures of this institution
during said eleven years amounted to about $10,974.35, includ-
ing the cost of a barn and an addition to the house. The total
receipts from the farm during this time amounted to $6,122.84,
thus leaving a deficiency of $4,851.51. In addition to these ex-
penditures, about 300 tramps were kept over night, and fur-
nished from one to two meals, each in each of the years 1878,
1879 and 1880.
The above system of kee]3ing a record of the receipts and
expenditures of this county institution, has continued and
still exists, and as the population of the county increases, it
necessarily causes an increase in the receipts and expenditures
thereof, yet, owing to the good management thereof it has
not proven any" great burden. At each session of the board
of supervisors a committee, or frequently the entire board,
visit this poor farm, and they thus keep in touch therewith,
and see that its management is proper and economical, and
considering the great relief it affords to the helpless and
needv, this farm is a credit and honor to the countv. Of
course, the county has to bear the burden of maintaining the
farm and the buildings thereon. In the year 1904 the board
found it necessarv to build a new house therefor.
148 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
After advertising the proposition to furnish all materials
and build such house, the contract for this work was let to the
lowest responsible bidder. Alonzo Hoagiand, an architect of
Chariton, being the lowest responsible bidder for this work,
the contract was let to him, for the sum of $13,800, and the
result is, that the county has secured a large, comfortable
house, well situated and suited for the purposes of a poor
farm.
In a financial report of Lucas county, for the year 1904,
prepared by H. C. Dillman, county auditor, there appears
the following statement, showing the cost of the new poor-
house, and the expense attending its operation for one year.
Expense of County Farm House to January 1, 1901
On building contract $13,800.00
Extra on change of plans 1,090 . 08
Drainage 181 . 00
Architect 210.00
On heating and plumbing 1,500 . 10
Cistern 293.90
Range 125.00
Total $17,200.08
Pauper
Mdse $1,488.15
Overseer poor 150 . 00
County physician 408 . 00
Deaf and dumb 8 . 39
Burying paupers 94 . 00
Small pox, Jackson township 187 . 08
Total $2,335.62
Poor Farm
Steward $ 500.00
Labor 621.34
Mdse 1,079.77
Total $2,201.31
WEATHER REPORTS
DATA RELATIVE TO THE CROP AND WEATHER CONDITIONS OF IOWA
We are indebted to Mr. C. C. Burr, a farmer of Lucas
county, for the following interesting data concerning the crojj
and weather conditions of Iowa, during the yeai's 1890 to 1912
inclusive. In inclosing this data Mr. Burr says :
"I am mailing you herewith some data, relative to the
crop and weather conditions of Iowa, and esj)ecially of the
year 1912, the year making a new record, as to the amount and
quality of crops grown. The result is great prosperity for
the producer, as there is good demand for all farm products,
at satisfactory prices, and general prosperity abounds.
Clippings, from State and National Service."
"The year 1912 was abnormal in many respects, the
month of March was tlie coldest month of that name on
record, and the snowfall exceeded that of any mouth, of any
year on record. Highways were drifted full, and railway
trains delayed for two and three days at a time. Freezing
temperature was frequent during April and May, and a
light frost on June 7th. Yet under these adverse conditions,
Iowa harvested the greatest general crop ever grown, and it
was saved in fine condition. The precipitation for the year
was 28.89 inches, or nearlv four inches less than normal. The
normal ten-year average rainfall is about 33 inches. The
temperature ranged from 37 degrees below zero on January
12th, to 101 degrees above on September 8th. The year with
the greatest amount of rainfall was 1902, 13.82 inches; the
vear with the least rainfall was 1910, with 19.87 inches.
There were 161 clear days, 97 cloudy, and 101 partly cloudy.
Another noticeable feature of the year, was the absence of
severely destructive storms during the crop season — the rain-
fall was about as the growing crops required for the best
results, and the soil absorbed it all."
Vol. I— 'J
149
150 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
COMPARATIVE DATA FOR THE STATE— ANNUAL
Temperature
Precipitation
in inches
OS
3
5 ^
Ctf 3D
g be
1890 48.0 110
1891 47.3 106
1892 46.6 104
1893 45.7 102
1894 49.7 109
1895 47.2 104
1896 48.6 104
1897 47.8 106
1898 47.7 103
1899 47.3 104
1900 49.3 103
1901 49.0 113
1902 47.7 98
1903 47.2 101
1904 46.3 100
1905 47.2 104
1906 48.4 102
1907 47.4 102
1908 49.5 101
1909 47.4 103
1910 48.6 108
1911 49.5 111
1912 46.4 104
* And other dates
Date Date
-^^
O
July 13 27 January
Aug. 9 31 February
July 11 38 January
July* 13 36 January
July 26 37 January
May 28 33 February
July 3 20 January
July* 23 30 January
Aug. 20 25 December
Sept.. 6 40 February
Aug. 3 27 February
July 22 31 December
July 30 31 'January
Aug. 24 27 December
July 17 32 January
Aug. 11 41 February
July 21 32 February
July 5 31 February
Aug. 3 .18 January
Aug.* 15 26 Feb 'ary*
July 16 35 January
July* 3 35 January
Sept. 8 47 January
22 31.30
4 32.90
19 36.58
14 27.59
25 21.94
1 26.77
4 37.23
25 26.98
31 31.34
11 28.68
15 35.05
15 24.41
27 43.82
13 35.39
27 28.51
2* 36.56
10 31.60
5 31.61
29 35.26
15 40.01
7 19.87
3 31.37
12 28.89
c3
a
«
X.
0,
-tj
CS
6
45.74
49.05
48.77
33.27
29.81
35.25
51.60
36.18
55.47
42.06
47.33
37.69
58.80
50.53
38.93
52.26
44.34
43.90
49.98
53.48
27.99
46.77
38.13
c:
-*—
oc
cc
c
h::
16.00
23.4S
24.78
19.19
15.65
18.57
28.68
20.21
19.51
21.79
25.05
16.35
20.14
26.41
19.34
24.66
20.63
19.93
24.11
27.20
12.11
19.74
15.25
o
c
34.2
37.2
19.2
26.0
22.6
38.S
40.3
23.4
25.8
38.5
2S.()
19.4
29.2
38^3
32.8
24.0
22.7
49.0
23.4
35.3
39.5
COMPARATIVE DATA FOR THE STATE— DECEMBER
Temperature
Precipitation
Year s
1890 29.1
1891 32.3
1892 18.9
1893 22.0
1894 30.1
1S95 25.4
1896 30.8
1897 18.0
1898 18.1
1899 22.6
1900 26.9
1901 20.5
1902 20.1
1903 19.6
1904 23.4
1905 27.0
1906 -5.7
1907 28.8
190S 27.2
1909 15.1
1910 23.4
1911 27.9
1912 29.2
T indicates a Trace.
- indicates temperature below zero.
50
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72
68
70
73
63
70
60
60
75
63
64
59
58
67
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.52
1.43
1.00
.57
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4.50
3.04
2.80
1.75
5.74
1.79
3.22
1.70
4.28
2.70
2.75
5.51
1.96
3.68
1.69
2.81
2.28
2.07
6.10
1.39
4.43
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1.21
.20
.46
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T
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.67
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.62
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PAST AND FKESEXT OF LUCAS COUNTY 151
AGRICULTURE
The pj'osperity of Lucas county is largely dependant
n^jon agriculture. This is the foundation of her wealth, and
husiness of all kinds necessarily goes up and down on tln3
prospect of crops. It is true that we have an al)undance of
coal, which would be useful in operating manufactures, but
we have no rock or other natural advantages, upon which to
found manufactures.
Our chief agriculture products are corn, hay, oats, tim-
othy and blue grass seeds. Of late years our crops of timothy
and blue grass seeds have become a very important item.
Since the year 1900 farming has been considered the most
lucrative business in which men could engage in Iowa. Prior
to 1900 the market value of improved farms in Lucas county
I'anged from $15.00 to $50.00 per acre, owing to the improve-
ments thereon, and, as a general rule, farming was not con-
sidered a money-making business. For a period of about
thirty years prior to 1900, if a farmer counted anything for
his own time and labor, it was almost impossible for him to
make inonev at farming. About the vear 1885 Governor
Boies, in a carefully prepared paper, showed conclusively
that the actual cost of raising corn would and did amount
to $.25 per bushel, and during the thirty years' period above
mentioned, the price of corn was usually less than $.25 per
bushel, and never more.
If a farmei' owned his farm and had it payed for and had
sufficient help in his own family to cultivate it, he could
always make a good li\ing and perhaps accmnulate some-
thing, but if he allowed himself anything for his time and
labor in operating the farm, or interest on his investment, he
could not make anything. These facts, we repeat, were dem-
onstrated by Governor Boies in his paper above mentioned.
During the thirty-year period aboA^ mentioned the mar-
ket value of corn in Iowa ranged all the way from $.10 to
$.25 per bushel, and the larger part of this time corn was
selling in the market for less than $.25 per bushel. During
the time above stated farmers did not attempt to raise wheat.
For some unknown reason the average crop of wheat at
that time ranged from ten to fifteen bushels per acre, and
hence farmers found it cheaper to buy their flour from the
mills in Kansas and Minnesota, rather than attempt to raise
152 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
wheat. But about the year 1900 a sudden and importaut
change took place in the price of farms and in the business
of farming in Iowa. Farms which had been selling on the
market for from $15.00 to $50.00 per acre, iimnediately
arose in value from $40.00 to $^0.00 per acre, and they con-
tinued to increase until they are now selling at from $-1:0.00
to $125.00 per acre. The reason for this increase was readily
seen in the increased prices of farm products. The price of
corn immediately rose from $.25 to $.50 per bushel and
all farm jjroducts immediately doubled in value.
The change was surprising. In the twinkling of an eye
the whole country seemed to change from a comparatively
new country, where there seemed to be an over-supply of
farms and farm products, to the conditions of an old country,
with a large poi^ulation, where farms and farm products
were scarce, and belonged to the few, and where the large
majority of the people did not have and could not obtain
land. No such change was ever before experienced in this
country and the astonishing fact is that there was nothing
gradual about this change. It occurred at once without any
seeming cause therefore. At one bound the whole country
presented the appearance and actual conditions of an old
and over crowded population. The people did not seem to
realize this change or the cause thereof, but the fact that the
opportunities to obtain homes and farms in Iowa had passed
for men of moderate means became apparent. All at once
the farmers of the county or those Avho had held the title or
even equities in their lands, became independent financially.
During the thirty-year period above mentioned many small
farmers lost their farms, l)ut there was still a large propoi'-
tion of them, who, by selling corn at from fifteen to twenty-
five cents per bushel, and by mortgaging their farms at for
from $10.00 to $15.00 per acre, were enal:)led to hold the title
thereto, and hence they received the l^enefits of this change.
The great advantages attending this marked change in
the value of farms and farm products, came to the very
class who most needed it — for years they had struggled to
make a living for their families. At the prices at which they
were compelled to sell their products it was impossible fo]-
them to make more than a mere living, and hence if they
were so unfortunate as to become indebted, their only escape
from a sale of their farms and homes was to mortgage them.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 153
The large number uf mortgages on farms became alarming.
Loan agencies were established in every town in Iowa where
debtors could borrow eastern money on farm mortgages.
Who could estimate the calamitous condition of the coun-
try, and especially of small farmers if these mortgages had
been foreclosed. But this marked change in conditions not only
saved a large class of the people of Iowa from utter financial
ruin, but it placed them in inde]jendent circumstances and
changed their financial destiny.
FARMING
This is an age of progress and it is evident that the busi-
ness of farming, to be successful, must keep pace with the
general improvements and advance in the methods of agri-
culture. While we boast of the fertility of our soil and the
ability of our farmers to produce large crops, yet it is evi-
dent that our lands are capable of producing much more than
they usually do and that the losses and waste attending our
methods of farming should have long since suggested rem-
edies therefor.
The fact that our lands are capable of producing much
greater products than we usually realize therefrom is dem-
onstrated by the results of farming in old countries. It is
true that the cheapness of labor in old over-crowded coun-
tries enables them to expend more manual labor in the cul-
tivation thereof than would be practicable in this country,
but it is evident that by proper study we ought to be able to
lop off a large part of the expenses attending farming in
our country.
In the first place it is apparent that the cost of farm
implements and modern farm machinery, robs the farmer of
a large per cent of the profits attending his work. Think
for a moment of the large amount of money invested in
modern farm implements and farm machinery in Lucas
county. Then think of the money required to keep such
machinery in proper repair and condition, and the constant
deterioration of such machinerv, and the necessitv of re-
placing it with new and improved machinery every few years.
When we contemplate this large drain on the business of
the ordinary farmer, it becomes apparent that there must
be some remedy therefor. He cannot abandon the use of
154 PAST Ax\D PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
such machinery and go back to primitive methods. He could
not think of going back to the use of the scythe or the cradle
to harvest his grain nor can he go back to the primitive
methods of preparing his ground for the crop or of plant-
ing his corn with a hoe. He must purchase and keep on
hand the modern implements and machinery for a few
weeks' use each year in planting and harvesting his crops.
SUGGESTIONS OF A PRACTICAI. AND SUCCESSFUL FARMER
The following suggestions of a practical and successful
farmer mav be worthv of consideration :
He says: ''As a general rule the farmer in the climate
of Iowa only has about thirty days to prepare the ground
and plant or sow the seeds. As a general rule in order to
procure the best results tliis must be done in the month of
May. There may be exceptions to this general rule, owing
to the weather conditions, but as a rule corn planted in April
or June does not produce a full crop. Again, there is a
]3roper time for harvesting crops, and there is a loss attend-
ing such harvesting of croi)S if the work is done outside of
this proper time. To be successful and achieve the best re-
sults, cro]3s must be planted and harvested at the proper time.
Hence such times are the busy times of a farmer, and it is
at such times that he requires the use of the best modern
appliances and machinery, and hence to require him to invest
the money necessary to purchase such machinery and to keep
it in good repair and condition, is an oppressive tax on this
industry. This, I think, could be avoided by an arrange-
ment between farmers whereby one person with a proper
knowledge of such machinery should engage in the business
of assisting farmers in each township or smaller district in
the x^lanting, sowing and harvesting of his crops. He could,
with a sufficient su^Dply of machinei'y and force, jDrepai'e the
ground for crops, plant or sow the same and harvest the
same within the crop season, and I am satisfied that the
increased production attending this method would more than
pay the cost of such help.
"Such person, with a proper equipment, could insure the
seeding of all lands in his district within the time required,
and with such assistance, the crops could all be harvested at
such time and in such manner as to avoid losses therein.
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 155
*'If it be said that this looks too much like farming l>y
proxy the answer is that the farmer, with his force, could
reduce the cost of this plan by assisting therein and he would
be employed in the cultivation of his crops from the time
they were planted up to or near harvest time.
"Again: In this way the farmer would secure the planting
and harvesting of his crops much cheaper than he could by
purchasing machinery and attempting to i^erform this work
himself. Having procured the necessary machinery and
made ariangements to properly care for it and having pro-
vided himself with all appliances necessary to keep it in
repair, the party engaged in such business would necessarilly
become an expert in taking care of and operating such ma-
chinery, and hence, the farmer would reap the benefits and
advantages of such reduction in the reduced price of the
services rendered by such expert.
"The essential advantage of this plan to the farmer is in
securing the planting and harvesting of his crops at the
proper time. Nature has provided for a seed time and har-
vest. This law is inexorable and if it is not observed the
])onalty provided therefor will surely follow.
"If the ground is not properly prepared for sowing, or if
the seed is not sown at the proper time the injurious effects
of such failure are plainly seen, not only in the growing
product, l)ut in the quality and quantity of the matured
product.
"Any person can see this result in the crops on each side of
a highway as he passes along. The corn crop on one side
of the road may have a healthy appearance while the crop
on the other side of the highway may seem to be in an un-
healthy condition ; stunted and materially injured in its
growth. What is it that produces this difference? It is
not in the soil for that is the saiiie. It is not in the failure
of sunshine or I'ain. The conditions in this respect have been
the same. Observation will demonstrate that this material
difference has been caused by the failure to properly pre-
])are one field for planting, or in failing to plant it at the
proper time.
"It is a fact well known to farmers that the plowing or
breaking of land when the ground is wet, is a i^ositive injury
to land: an injury, from the ill effects of which it will re-
quire at least one year for the ground to fully recover. It
156 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
will require at least one year to dissolve the clods produced
by plowing the land when it is wet. The first year will pro-
duce an immense crop of clods and weeds. Hence, the
absolute necessity of the farmer improving every moment of
the short time allowed him in this climate to plant and seed
his lands at the right time. Time is the essence of this
problem. At most, as a general rule, he only has about
thirty days to accomplish this important work and from this
brief time we must deduct the days when, on account of rains,
he must cease work.
" I believe that the plan or scheme above suggested would
revolutionize this work and result in the great advantage to
the small farmers of the country. ' '
If the scheme above suggested is feasible and could be
enforced it would seem that it would not only eliminate the
great burden on the small farmer of having to furnish ex-
pensive farm machinery, but it would insure better crops. It
may not be the best remedy for the ills mentioned, but if it
should lead others to devise a better plan it Avill have effected
a much needed reform.
It is also evident that the time is not far distant when
electric power will be largely used in farming, especialh^ in
marketing farm products. In Minnesota and Canada elec-
tric power is largely used in operating gang plows and har-
vesting machinery, thereby eliminating the great expense of
purchasing and keeping numerous horses, but, we repeat, the
greatest advantage is found in the fact that this important
work is accomplished at the proper time.
RAILROADS
Lucas county is well supplied with railroads. It has the
main line of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad
running east and west through the county. Then it has a
branch railroad extending south to St. Joseph, Missouri, and
there connecting with a direct road to Kansas City and Omaha.
Then it has another branch road extending northwest to In-
dianola in Warren county, where it connects with a branch of
the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, running to Des
Moines.
The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad is now en-
gaged in building a line of railroad from the town of Carlysle
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 157
in Warren coimt}^, running north and south through Lucas
county, to the town of Allerton in Wayne county, a distance
of about sixty-eight miles. This will give it a direct connec-
tion between Des Moines and Kansas City.
Instead of first building a temporary cheap road, as has
been the custom with railroads, with the idea of improving
it and straightening it afterwards, this company is building
a first-class road bed in the beginning, so that when completed
it will at once assume the position of a first-class road, and
it will doubtless constitute a part of its main line from Chicago
to the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific coast.
The history attending the building of said roads is inter-
esting to the people generally. A short time prior to the year
1858 the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Company
was organized to build that road from Burlington, Iowa, to
Plattsmouth on the Missouri river, but foi' several years this
enterprise moved along very slowly. It secured a congres-
sional grant of the undisposed of public lands lying within
fifteen miles on each side of the established line of the
road. In some counties, especially in the counties of Union,
Adams and Montgomery, the company under this grant
acquired the title to many thousand acres of valuable lands,
and it obtained the title to lands in every county traversed by
the road west of Wapello county.
At that time railroad companies expected the people along
the line thereof to aid in the construction thereof. In the
first place this aid was in the shape of subscriptions to the
stock of the company at the rate of one hundred dollars per
share, but after the road was built this stock was sold by
the subscribers at from $10.00 to $25.00 per share and a
short time after these subscribers had disposed of their stock
it w^as selling in the market at from $75.00 to $100.00 per
share. The main line of the Burlington Railroad was com-
pleted thi'ough this county al)out 1868. Then about the year
1880 the Burlington Ccnnpany built wdiat is known as the
Chariton & St. Joseph road, and about the year 1890 it built
what is commonly known as the North Branch to Indianola,
and in 1911 the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Com-
pany commenced the construction of its railway, called the
St. Paul and Kansas Citv Short Line Railroad, from Carlvsle
158 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
to Ailertou. The townships voted a local tax to aid in the
building of the St. Joseph and Indianola branches.
Thus it is apparent that manufactories located at Chari-
ton could send their products in every direction, and this
advantage ought to result in the establishment of manufac-
tories here.
COAI.
For many years our state geologists have expressed the
opinion that the western portion of this county was under-
laid with deposits of coal, and for mau}^ years divers persons
have undertaken to develop the same, but such efforts have
been spasmodic and irregular and after sinking some shafts
and for a time mining coal in paying quantities, the mines
have been abandoned, to be taken up by other persons and
again abandoned.
The prospects of the development of extensive coal mines
in the county were never so bright as at the present time.
The history attending the efforts to discover and develop such
mines is long and interesting. It was known by the pioneers
of the county that coal existed at different points in the
county.- At some places it could be seen in the banks of
streams, where the water had washed away the earth to
such extent as to expose the veins of coal. For many years
farmers have been obtaining coal for their own use by drift-
ing into hillsides, where veins of coal from eight to eighteen
inches thick appeared. At other places persons have for
many years mined coal from such thin veins and sold it
at the nearest towns.
About the year 1871 one major safely of Ottumwa was
led to believe that coal in paying quantities could be found
in the western part of the county, but after making an effort,
and expending some money to discover it, he abandoned the
enterprise.
Afterwards about the year 1873 one N. M. Close, a resi-
dent of the county, also expended considerable time and money
in prospecting for coal. He sank a shaft near the village
of Lucas and was rewarded by finding a vein or rather a
deposit of coal about twenty-four inches thick, at a depth
of about one hundred feet from the surface. It having been
determined that it would not pay to operate a mine of this
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 159
character the enterprise was again abandoned for several
years and the public settled down to the belief that althougli
coal in paying quantities existed in a large portion of tlit^
county, yet it would i-equire quite a large sum of money to
develop it and operate a mine.
At length about the year 1S9() one William Haven under-
took to solve the problem whether or not coal existed in the
countv in such quantities and of such quality as to pay for
operating a mine. He obtained drills and experienced miners
and proceeded to prospect for coal at a point about one mile
east of Lucas. While, as the work progressed, the indications
became favorable, yet it was impossible to induce men of
means to risk anything in the enterprise, and it seemed that
Mr. HaA^en's efforts and sacrifices would end in a failure, the
same as his predecessors. But fully believing that the coal
existed and that he could and would find it, he continued his
efforts until at length rumor announced that "Haven has
struck a seven-foot Acin of coal." It proved to be true, witli
the exception that the coal or deposit was from five to seven
feet thick. His shaft was located near the town of Lucas.
A company known as "The Whitebreast Coal and Mining
Company," was organized to operate this new mine and for a
time, night and day shifts of miners continued with proper
machinery to lift coal from a depth of about two hundred
and fifty feet from the surface and load it on the cars of
the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company.
For about six years the villages of Lucas and Cleveland
were the Inisiest little towns in Iowa. But it was afterwards
ascertained that this coal did not exist in veins or regular
strata, but in i)ockets, and that a five-foot deposit of coal
might end at any time. Hence the extent of the Q<n\\ at any
particular place was found to be uncertain. For instance:
the drill would pass through a deposit of coal from five to
seven feet in thickness in a certain forty-acre tract of land,
while two or three drill holes on the adjoining forty-acre
tract would fail to show any indications of coal, except ]X'r-
haps they would show the existence of the minor Acins, which
ap]:>ear all over the county. Afterwards Mr. J. C. Osgood
of Burlington, Iowa, became interested in Mr. Haven's mine
and in a short time he acquired the controlling interest
therein, and in his company called "The Whitebreast Coal
and ^Mining Company." Mr. Llaven tlu^n withdrew from
160 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
the company, and from the coal business in Lucas county, and
engaged in other business.
After Mr. Osgood and his associates took charge of said
mine. They procured the best mining machines then in use and
a large number of miners and for a few years they did an
extensive business in the mining, shipment and sale of coal
in western Iowa, northern Missouri and eastern Nebraska.
When the pockets of coal began to fail, they continually
searched for other pockets by means of a diamond drill.
In this way he found another extensive pocket of coal at
a point about five miles southwest of the town of Lucas and
the business again revived. When this pocket was exhausted
he then abandoned his mining enterprises in Lucas county.
While his mines were in full operation Mr. Osgood caused
his company to issue and sell its bonds in the New \'ork
market, amounting to many thousands of dollars, such bonds
being secured by a mortgage on all of its property, including
its leases on several thousand acres of supposed coal lands,
but when said mining operations ceased, the purchasers of
said bonds brought an action against the officers of the com-
pany individually for misrepresentation in the sale of said
bonds. This action was afterwards compromised and dis-
missed. -
Afterwards Mr. H. L. Byers of Lucas, still believing that
there were ''millions" in the old coal mine near the town of
Lucas, took possession of the shaft in said mine, pumped
out the water, and proceeded with a few miners to mine, and
by means of the old machinery to lift some coal daily from
said mine. He claimed that a visit down the shaft would
convince any person that there were millions of tons of the
best quality of soft coal in sight. We have no doubt but that
Mr. Byers actually believed that this was true. Mr. Walsh
of Chicago sent an experienced coal miner to examine said
mine and verify Mr. Byers' statements. This expert came
and after making such examination reported that Mr. Byers'
representations were true, and on his report to Mr. Walsh, he,
Walsh, expended several thousand dollars in the purchase of
new machinerv for said mine. But in a short time this expert
ascertained that he had been deceived by the appearances of
said mine. That, in fact, the supposed sparkling coal, which
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 161
he could see in the said mine was not coal at all, but a black
glistening material, wholly unfit for use as fuel.
Mr. Walsh al^andoned said mine, having lost a few thou-
sand dollars in this transaction. But this transaction did
not aft'ect Mr. Byers. He still claimed that there were mil-
lions in it, and in a short time he induced a Mr.
of Kansas City to invest about thirtv thousand dollars
in said mine. The water was again pumped out. The
machinery repaired, miners obtained and mining operations
commenced again, but after a few weeks it was again demon-
strated that there w^as nothing in it, and again it was aban-
doned. But Mr. Byers was not affected by this repeated
failure; he still believed that bv the investment of a few
thousand dollars this mine would prove to be one of the best
paying properties in the state.
While it seems that Mr. Byers is thoroughly mistaken in
his judgment as to the value of his mine, yet we must credit
him with an honest belief in the value of this property, and
we du nut doubt that if he had money to invest he would
again risk it in an effort to operate said mine.
About the year 1906 Mi*. William Haven again undertook
to prospect for coal in the northeast j)art of the count}^ and
he continued his work until he discovered coal in paying quan-
tities and of a good quality, and he secured by purchases
and leases several hundred acres of land in which lie became
satisfied there was coal. Mr. Haven secured the assistance
of a few wealthy men, residing at Aurora, Illinois, to pros-
pect for coal. These men did not invest in this property with
the view of operating a coal mine. They had very little
experience in such lousiness, but as they regarded such invest-
ment as safe and profitable they furnished the money nec-
essary to acquire the title to a vast coal field, with the view
that this property would become valuable, and they would
leave to others the work required in securing a railroad to
said mines, and in operating the same.
Fortunately for them the St. Paul & Kansas City Short
Line Railroad which is now being built by the Chicago, Rock
Island & Pacific Railroad Company will pass through this
coal field, and this will develop the most extensive coal mines
in the state. The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad
Company and the North- Western Railroad Company have
each secured coal rights in large tracts of lands in this local-
162 PAST AND PKESEXT OF LUCAS COUNTY
ity, and it is expected that each of these companies, as well
as Mr. Haven's company, called "The Inland Fuel Com-
pany," will open and operate their mines in or during the
next year.
The Inland Compan}^ has sunk one shaft and for the
last five vears it has furnished most of the coal used in tlie
county. This shaft is located about live miles north of Chari-
ton. The coal is of good qualit}^, being almost free from clin-
kers, and producing fine white ashes.
A large munber of farmers use this coal for heating pur-
poses, rather than spend the time and labor required in
chopping and hauling wood. We look forward to the time
as not far distant when it will require thousands of dollars
to meet the weekly or monthly payroll of numerous miners
engaged in operating said coal mines, thereby largely increas-
ing the volume of money in circulation in the count3% and
insuring local prosperit.y.
The Chicago, Rock Island ^ Pacific Railroad Company
are now engaged in building a branch railroad extending from
the town of Carlysle in Warren comity to the town of Aller-
ton in Wavne countv, where it will connect with their line
of railroad from Chicago to Kansas City and from there
connecting with their lines of railroads to Los Angeles and
the Gulf of Mexico. This will be a very important railroad.
It passes through said coal field in Lucas county.
This company lias secured the coal right in large tracts of
land in l^ucas county, and it will at once proceed to mine and
de^'elop coal mines in these lands.
The North-Western Railroad Company has also, l)y pur-
chase and leases, secured coal rights in and under a large
number of acres of land in this same coal field in Lucas
county, and it is understood that it will undertake to open
mines this season. Coal has never been discovered in the
western or northern part of this state, nor has coal in paying
quantities ])een discovered in northern Missouri or eastern
Nebraska, and hence said proposed mines will find a market
for much of their coal in said localities.
This new branch of the Rock Island road is called ''The
St. Paul and Kansas City Short Line Railroad." Con-
trary to the usual custom of railroad companies to build a
temporary and cheap road bed in the beginning, and then
improve and straighten the line thereof afterward, the
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 163
Rock Islaiid Company is Iniildiiig this rcjad in a perma-
nent and tirst-class manner in the start. For instance, their
right-of-way through the town of Chariton is about two hun-
dred feet wide, tliereby giving them an aljundance of room
for depot grounds and stock yards at convenient points. In-
stead of searching for cheap grounds for their stock yards
and coal station tliey have, at a great expense, graded down
liills and tilled in ravines in order to place such improve-
ments at the desired point or place.
Today, January 21st, 1913, they finished laying the rails
from Carlysle to Chariton, and in a few weeks one can go
from Chariton to Des Moines without changing cars.
THE COAL FIELDS OF LUCAS COUXTY
Under the above heading, Mr. Horace Barnes, the enter-
prising editor of the Republican, of Albia, Iowa, thus, in a
late issue of his paper, correctly represents our coal interests :
"Some da}^ and that before long, the people of Chariton
are going to be awakened by the blasts of powder shots which
shot firers will touch oft' in mines of the Inland Fuel Com-
pam^, three miles out from Chariton. The Chariton people
are not aware at this time of what a wonderful body of coal
lies so near their doors. If thev do realize it thev do not
say, and the persons whom you talk to on the streets are
dubious of this and dubi(nis of that. The Chariton people
are much like the Albia people. The earlier residents of
Albia could see nothing in the question of there being coal
under the land in this county, and they went dreamily to
sleejD and let outside capital come into the county and gob-
ble all the fine coal lands and the Albians sat down to see
millionaires made from the coal out-put, while they were
satisfied with the trade which came to their stores as the
result of the miners receiving their pay. This is practically
the way it is in Chariton. I talked with a half dozen men,
business men, and they stated the coal near there would never
reach market, that mines would not be in operation until
years after they were dead. They will have to die jDretty
shortly, for arrangements are now imder way which will
make Chariton one of the liveliest towns in the state.
"The Inland Fuel Company is the name of the company
which has 10,000 acres of coal land either in their own ri^ht
164 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
or under such a lease that they can obtain it at any time.
For the past eleven years the money has been poured into
the mine. The income from the output has been barely
enough to pay the men. But those who owned the mine were
content with that. They have had one idea in view and that
was to get the coal in sight, get the mine in such condition
that when things did come that wav thev could mine the
coal rapidly and profitably. There is not a mine in Iowa
where such an extensive system has been followed as at the
Inland Fuel Company. They have driven entries until at
this time they have two and a half miles of entries. The
greatest part of this has the rails laid. The mouth of the
shaft below is of concrete with heavy steel beams extending
across the roof and making it absolutely safe. The main
entries have been driven and laterals have followed so that
the men can always have an open course to freedom in case
of accident. It must have taken considerable nerve to tackle
the proposition the way it has been done — sinking dollar
after dollar and no regular income. But the owners of the
mine knew some day there would be a railroad come down
that way and that hope is now^ realized. I was up there the
other day when the final gap of the new Rock Island was
completed and when the first train dow^n over the new road
came through the town. Chariton people hardly knew the
new road had completed the gap, but those faithful fellows
who for eleven years have been looking forward to just such
a time knew it. Thev knew evervthing about it. It was a
gala day for them, but they said nothing. Just kept on the
even tenor of their way, knowing the long wait was about over
and the mine would be given operation.
"The mine is one of the best in the state and has a qual-
ity of coal that is the best in the state. A government in-
spector was down in the mine and dug coal which he car-
ried away with him and took for government inspection.
A carload of the coal was also shipped for testing qualities,
and the report came back that it was the best Iowa coal
which had ever been given a test. The men who have been
backing the mine and awaiting the time for a railway, could
afford to wait for they knew that when the time was ripe
there would be a railway reach down into that section and
give them the market they will seek. They have played the
coal game similar to the railways. The latter will option
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 165
large fields, make purchases here and there and then let
the coal lie in the ground until they get ready to come for it.
This is the way it has been with the Inland Fuel Company.
William Haven and George Verner have been right in the
field all the time and have remained with the company dur-
ing the entire eleven years and have spent the money care-
fully and honestly and they now have to show for it what
will be one of the largest mines in the state.
"The coal is easily mined and will prove a bonanza for
the men who have employment there. There has never been
a charge of dynamite used in the mines. Black j)owder is
sufficient to loosen the coal and one shot brings down great
quantities of the coal. I was in one of the rooms which had
been turned by Alfred Goater, a former Monroe count}'
miner, and who made money during the days of the old Jack
Oak and Cedar mines. Mr. Goater had a quantity of coal
down with the one shot that would be the envy of every miner
who could see it. Mr. Goater backs up the operators in the
statement that it is the finest coal he has ever seen and the
finest he has ever worked in. The company now gives em-
plo\TTient to thirty men, but with the building of a new switch
to connect with the Rock Island they can easily take care
of three hundred men and in a very few days' notice. It is
expected that the mine will be running full blast by next fall
and at least three hundred if not four hundred men will be
at work. The miners have a local union and there is no
friction whatever between the men and the company. There
has never been any disagreement made to the district officers
and that speaks mighty well for the men. The officers of the
local are C. H. Runnells, president; F. E. Johnson, secre-
tarv. The two men do all the business for the miners and
there has never l)een any squabble of any kind. I believe
it should be stated right here that I never met an operator
who was more inclined to union labor than George Verner.
He told me it would be impossible to run an open mine and
even if he could he would never give countenance to such a
thing. He believes fully in the labor movement and thinks
it a great deal better for the miners and operators both.
Operating a mine for eleven years with no strike, no trouble
to report to the district officers and no friction means a whole
lot in the mining industry and shows a confidence on the
part of both the miner and operator. There has been one
Vol. I— 10
166 PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
man killed in the mine during all of this time. That was the
man's own fault, but the compan}^ did not dodge behind any
technicality. They saw to it that the man was buried as
he should have been, and that his family was cared for until
the wife found another husband. The accident was a pe-
culiar one. One of the men was ijr3ing away on a prop
with a crowbar, when the bar slipped, the man fell to the
ground and the heavy iron bar fell with such force as to
strike him across the stomach and cause his death.
"The vein of coal averages five feet and nine inches in
thickness, and has no seams of rock or other impurities.
It is the cleanest looking coal I have ever seen. The greater
part of the mine has iron rails in position and dozens of
rooms could be turned off rapidl}^ AVooden rails have been
used in the new openings, as have been in all mines, and these
are replaced with rails just as soon as the work is advanced
to that point where there Avill be need for rooms. Thirty
feet of solid slate overlies the coal, making a safe ai«d easily
kept on I'oof. The mine has the advantage of not only the
excellent roof but also a fine footing for the props, there
being absolutely no 'give' to the props when they are once
set and the only way they will ever move is by the lapse of
time.
"This mine is ])ut one of the several bodies of coal which
the Inland people control. They have other fields which they
have prospected and which they will develop as time requires.
It is their intention to sink more shafts and go after the coal
for all it is worth when the opportune time arrives. They
have the Eock Island now completed to give them an outlet
and have hopes that the Milwaukee will come sweeping down
through that end of the country and give them still better
service and a still better market. The North- Western is
headed toward Chariton. A new shaft is being sunk by them
east of the present Inland holdings, and this surely means a
track will be extended to that shaft. If the track is extended
that fai" it is reasonable to suppose the North-Western will
eventually push along to other holdings still nearer the Inland
holdings. There is every reason to believe the North- Western
will push ahead to their own property and this will ena])le
a switch to be run down from the Inland mines, not those
now under way, but new ones to the east which will be de-
veloped. This is the case where the men have looked ahead
PAST AKD PKEbEXT OF LUCAiS COUxXTY 167
fur a duzeii years and have seen part of their past hopes
brought into realization. It is reasonable to suppose that
they will be right in thinking of the Milwaukee and the
North- W'estei-n coming into Lucas county and giving better
facilities for getting the coal to the market. And this is
no idle dream for have not the men who have w^atched things
been correct in the surmises? Have they not watched the
development of other coal properties? It can be tigured
down to the very point that when the railroads want the
coal they wdll be coming into the Lucas county held. The
tests which have been made have told the quality of the coal.
Lucas county has a great future before it, but many of the
men do not know it. Chariton has a future that is bright,
but the merchants do not seem to have a full realization of
what lies at their door, and the development of which will
mean the distribution of the golden coin over their coun-
ters. If they do know it, they are not saying anything.
But Messrs. Haven and Verner know it, and they will not
wait too long. The development of the mines will mean
more houses will be needed in Chariton. It will mean larger
stores and more advertising for the newspapers and the man
who realizes right now that this is no joke will find himself
readv to meet the new^ conditions.
"It will mean that 10,000 acres of Lucas county land,
which is controlled by the Inland Fuel Company, will some
day be sending out into the world's market 1,000 tons of
coal per day. The three hundred working days in the year
will find the men busy and for forty years the mines will
be running, and Lucas county will lie crowding Monroe
county for the first place as the coal producing county of the
state."
A RETROSPECTIVE VIEW
The historv of Lucas countv might be divided into three
periods. In the first place we can turn back the pages of
history until we come to the days of the pioneers. While
the picture of those glorious days is becoming dim, and the
primitive land marks of that period are few and far be-
tween, yet by carefully collecting and gathering together
every circumstance attending their mode of life, we can ob-
tain a fair picture of the days and mode of life of those
16a PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
grand old pioneers, who founded homes in the then wilder-
ness of Lucas county. We can, in imagination, see the
curling smoke arising from many cabins, hid away in the
tall grasses and brush, fringing the streams. While they
were called upon to endure many privations, yet the disposi-
tion to aid and assist each other rendered their life com-
paratively happy. They had no doctors within a hundred
miles and while they were comparatively free from the most
virulent types of disease, yet it is true that there were a few
instances of fever, common to new countries.
Cases of fever and ague were quite common, but they had
learned to control and cure this disease by the use of qui-
nine. We learn that it was difficult to find a house in which
a supph" of quinine was not kept on hand, and if any family
did not have this ague specific a neighbor was glad to fur-
nish it. By good nursing and the use of primitive remedies,
the colony was kept comparatively free from disease.
Again, these pioneers also proAdded entertainments, which
assisted them in whiling away many happy hours. By the
use of ox teams they would frequently meet at different
points for recreation and amusement.
Again, traveling preachers would occasionally visit the
country and entertain them with religious meetings.
Crimes were almost unknown to the community. They
could make claims for lands an^^diere and they had very little
money or personal property to quarrel about. They learned
to rely implicitly on each other, and the crime of larceny
was unknown. It was not necessary that they keep their
personal property under lock and key. It mattered not
where they left their property, they were assured that it
would be there when they looked for it. "
While they had an abundance of work in the improve-
ments of their claims, yet they had a quiet and easy life,
working only when they pleased to work. They lived largely
on game. The fieet-footed deer would cross their pathway
wherever they went, and the country was filled with delicious
wild fruits.
While the men would gladly participate in the early elec-
tions and in adopting measures tending to the comfort and
prosperity of the colony, yet there was no political contro-
versy. It is true that they each retained their prior politi-
cal prejudices to a certain extent, and took pride in call-
PAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY 169
ing themselves "Democrats," or "Whigs," yet in conduct-
ing the business of the county they did not permit political
prejudice to influence their action. Theirs was an indei)en-
dent mode of life, free from graft or local controversies, and
take their independent life together, they were happy and
contented.
THE SECOND PERIOD
In and during the second period of the history of the
county w^e And these pioneers engaged in trading with thf*
new comers. The new comers who came between the years
of 1859 and 1865 brought some money and considerable
property with them, and the j^ioneers spent a considerable
part of their time in trading with the new comers. They
would sell or trade their claims to the new comers and then
proceed to obtain other lands for themselves. They were
thoroughly acquainted with the country, and in this they had
the great advantage of the new comer. This disposition to
barter and sell lands and personal property and speculate,
necessarily resulted in controversies and law suits, and hence
the inhabitants of the second period, to a certain extent,
acquired the reputation of being "sharpers," and the people
were not so happy or contented as were the people of the
pioneer period.
THE THHID PERIOD
The third period in the settlement of the county began
abcait the year 1865, Avhen most of the government lands
were entered. The war had just closed and money was
plenty. The war had made some millionaires and the reign
of money or the worship of money then commenced. Busi-
ness of all kinds seemed to start anew; everybody seemed to
become controlled by the desire to become wealthy ; manufac-
tories started up all over the country, and strange to say,
with the coming of school houses and churches, there came?
modern schemes to get rich, followed by a wave of crime, such
as generally attends schemes to obtain the money and prop-
erty of others. The farmer, mechanic and professional man,
in fact, all kinds or classes of citizens, seemed to be con-
trolled bv a desire not onlv to obtain all the monev thev
17U FAST AND PRESENT OF LUCAS COUNTY
could earn, but all that their neighbor could obtain. This
worship of money still continues, perhaps it is the same among
the people of Lucas county and the people of any other local-
it}^ in this respect, but it is a lamentable fact, observed by
any and every person, who has given the proposition any
thought, that in this age and day of the world people have
become money worshippers. In old times, certain men, per-
haps in every community, were called and known as "stingy''
persons, but as a rule this characterization now applies to
all men, the exception is the liberal man in finance. Andrew
Carnegie has said that "the time is coming when it will be
considered a disgrace for a man to die worth a million ot
dollars." That time mav be coming, but it certainlv is not
here, and it does not appear to be very near here. On the
other hand the evidences are that the more money a man
obtains the more he wants, and as a rule, his action seems
to warrant the belief that he can and will take his money
with him when he departs this life.
TF-P MEW YORK
P LIBRARY
jNS
Beal's Park
Auditorium
North Side Square
Light Plant
South Half, West Side Square
North Half, West Side Square
VIEWS OF CORYDON
History of Wayne County
Three score 3^ears ago today the Indian owned and con-
trolled the territory embraced in what we now call Wayne
county, Iowa. Here he chased the fleet-footed deer, gath-
ered the furs from the beaver and otter, whiled awav his hours
in games, and recounted in dances and songs the lives and
achievements of the braves of his race. But the white man
gazing across the broad Mississippi, became infatuated with
the rich country beyond, and by means of what he called
treaties he caused the Indian to agree to transfer to him the
broad and beautiful domain extending from the Mississippi
river to the ever restless Missouri, and stretching from the
lakes of Minnesota to the ever green verdure of the south.
It is said that the white man purchased this vast territory,
but he paid for it largely in tobacco, beads and whiskey; in
other words the Indian sold his birthright for a "mess of
pottage." However, the time was approaching when the
white man demanded the fulfilment of his contract, and then
he commanded the Indian to move on, move on, and seek a
new home in the wilds west of the Missouri river. How-
ever, the Indian was loth to leave this beautiful home of his
childhood and the graves of his kindred. He still lingered
al(Hig the streams when the pioneers of Wayne county moved
in to take possession of his home. For the greater part of
a year after the time had expired for his removal from the
territory of Iowa he was still here, in groups, entertaining
the pioneers with songs and dances originated by his fathers,
and the chieftains of his tribe. He was loth to leave this
beautiful home. Early historians inform us that Iowa was
the favorite home of the Indian. It has been said that —
173
174 PAST AND PRESENT OP WAYNE COUNTY
"Here the dark-eyed Indian girl roamed in all her native
simplicit}^, gathered her flowers in the valley, built her bow-
ers on the hill, decked her long black tresses with the choic-
est gems of the prairie, sang songs in harmony with the
birds, glided down the streams in her bark canoe, or, at the
dead hours of the night bathed with her tears the wild flow-
ers that blossomed upon the graves of her departed kindred. ' '
When the government of the white man again notified the
Indian that his time was up, he quietly and sullenly gath-
ered together his ponies, his bows and arrows, and his accum-
ulation of a century, and wended his way to the home of the
buffalo, west of the turbid Missouri, where he again pitched
his tent and founded his home.
The continuous history of Iowa begins with the Black
Hawk war in 1832. In the summer of 1832 a comj)any of
cavalry set out from Davenport, Iowa, on a reconnaissance
which extended as far west as Fort Leavenworth. They
passed through the counties of Appanoose and Wayne in a
nearlv southwest direction.
The state of Missouri was quite well settled at this time
and many of its citizens had an intimate knowledge of
hunting and woodcraft. A hunter's instinct is powerful, and
the sons of the 'M^'ar huntei's" of Kentucky could not re-
press the desire to plunge into the wilderness in search of
game, and to follow the streams towards their origin for
honey in the summer and for beaver in the fall. Hence,
when the white men came into the countrv in search for claims,
they found two trails, one route taken by the cavalry men,
and the other leading in a general northern direction. The
Tjos route was called "Bee Trace" and the marks of wagon
wheels could be distinguished leading off towards the groves
all along this trace. The wagons were probably brought into
the wilderness to carr}' off the honey found in the timber.
Another "Bee Trace" ran from Missouri diagonally
through Davis county, Iowa, and terminated in the vicinity of
Unionville. Who made these two trails is unknown. Those
who came in search of bee trees cared little for the fertile
soil or its capacity for producing the comforts of life. The
bee hunters were more concerned about the exchange value
of beeswax for gunpowder and whiskey than they were for
the desirability of this region for homes. It is stated that
Joseph Shaddon, a resident of Putman county, Missouri,
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 175
visited the region near the Chariton river in 1833, and if so,
he was certainly among the very first v^^hite men to enter what
is known and now called Appanoose and Wayne counties. He
found large numbers of bee trees and he took home to Put-
man county, Missouri, a large store of honey.
In perhaps all of these counties in southern Iowa the
first settlers organized what was called
THE CLAIM SOCIETY
This was done for the purpose of protecting the first
settlers in securing the title to the tract of land on which
they had settled. As the country had not been surveyed into
sections or other governmental divisions it was impossible
for the first settler to determine the exact boundary lines of
his claim. He could only guess at this matter, and hence,
when a new comer arrived and began to select his claim, his
movements were regarded with suspicion. It was feared
that he would attempt to secure the title to lands included
in the claims already selected by others. Hence, he was re-
quired to apply to this Claim Society, and satisfy the mem-
bers thereof that it was not his desire or intent to obtain the
claims of others. If, upon examination, it was found by
the Society that he was a good-faith settler, and would abide
by the orders and decisions of this Society as to the boun-
daries of his claim when the country was surveyed, then the
Society would aid and assist him ; but if it was found that he
had engaged in a scheme of speculation and that he would
contest the rights of other settlers to their claims or any part
thereof, he was peremptorily ordered to move on, and if he
failed to do so he was in jeopardy. The authority of this
self-constituted society was probably arbitrary, but in one
sense it ojDerated to mete out justice to all parties.
The first settlers claimed that they had made sacrifices in
establishing their right to a tract of land where they had built
their cabins and that it would be unjust to permit the sec-
ond crop of pioneers to deprive them of the rights which
they had obtained by means of such sacrifices. Hence, the
rules, regulations, and we may say the laws, enacted by this
Society, were strictly enforced, and instances were common
where parties who sought to evade its decrees were compelled
to leave the countrv.
176 PAST AND PKESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
Many Indians lingered on the "New Purchase" till 18^:5,
hunting and trading with the settlers. The Sacs and Foxes
had always been peacably disposed tow^ard the whites, and
verv few settlers had anv trouble with them.
In the summer or fall of 1844, however, a large band of
Indians visited the southwestern part of Wayne county.
Several Missouiians had made claims in the vicinity, and,
being fearful that the Indians w^ould steal from them, ordered
their visitors off, and undertook to seize and flog some of
them. The chief of the band, however, who was near by,
collected his men, and repairing to the scene, sternly informed
the whites that there would be instant trouble if they per-
sisted in their intentions. Seeing themselves greatly out-
numbered, the whites gave over their intention indefinitely.
GAME, ETC.
When the first settlers came, deer, elk and antelope were
not plentiful, the Indians having hunted them down and
thinned their numbers. Still, venison could be had without
much trouble, and deer became annually more plentiful for
several years. Antelope were occasionally seen, l)ut soon dis-
appeared.
Wild turkeys and prairie chickens were abiuidant, and it
was not difficult to bag several of either kind of birds in a
couple of hours; but the pioneer hunters preferred to hunt
for deer, and when in search for this game would not con-
descend to shoot at a turkey. As Mr. Dean quaintly ex-
presses it, "When they went deer-hunting they didn't go
turkey-hunting. ' '
Bee trees were to be found along the smaller streams, par-
ticularly in the vicinity of Chariton river, and one skilled in
woodcraft could obtain honey along the streams fctr several
years after the first settlement. The usual practice was to
search in the vicinity of the timber till the bee was found,
when it would be watched till it had gathered its load. This
done, it would make a "bee-line" for the tree to which it be-
longed. The hunter would follow this course into the tim-
ber, but if he could not readily find the tree, he would search
for another spot, considerably one side of the place where
he had found the first bee, when, by waiting awhile, he would
be able to trace the flight of another. Of course, the angle
PAST AND I'KESEXT OF WAYNE COUNTY 177
formed by the meeting of these courses woukl be about where
the tree stood of whicli lie was in search. Sometimes the
luuiter liad a littk' box i)artlv tiUed with honev and covered
with a lid. If he could capture several })ees, they would be
placed in the l)ox and allowed to load themselves. One being-
released, the hunter would follow its course as far as he could
with safety, when another would l^e allowed to fly, and so on
till he arrived at the tree, on a line quite as accurate as if
run with a compass.
Bears and panthers were almost unknown. Mr. Strat-
ton states that once, when going from his claim toward Cen-
ter ville, he noticed some tracks in the light snow, that he
supposed to be those of tindjer-wolf ; but, coming to where
the animal had made a leap of several paces, he knew it to be
a jjanther. It is stated by old hunters that they had no fear
of these animals, for they were always cowardly, and pre-
ferred to battle with a sheep rather than with man or any
animal that would face them.
Wildcats were numerous in the timber lands, but were
]i(»t to be feared, except in a close encounter.
The most troublesome and altogether malicious enemies of
the ]uoneers were the wolves. These pests would not only
howl around the lonely cabin all night, but were always rav-
enous and ready to pounce upon any unguarded calf, pig,
sheep or chicken that they could get at, and the settlers were
obliged to build pens against their cabins in which to keep
thei]' small flock. Chickens were frequently taken into the
house in order to preserve them from the attacks of wolves,
polecats and weasels.
Prairie rattlesnakes were verv munerous for manv vears
after the county was settled. Mr. Stratton gives an instance
that is worth relating. After he had brought his family to
his new cabin, in returning home one evening he gathered up
a lot of hickory bark that had been peeled from some rails,
intending it to be used for fuel. This he threw down near
the door, and went to bed at an early hour. Soon after he
heard a calf bleating and gasping in a ])eculiar manner, and
got up, thinking perhaps a wolf had attacked it. Getting a
light, what was his horror to see a rattlesnake under his
Ijrother's bed, coiled, and with head erect for a fight. He
seized the Jacob's-staff of his compass to kill the reptile, but
just then the dog rushed in, seized the snake and killed it, but
178 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
not before the snake had bitten the faithful fellow. The
calf was then attended to, and the investigation showed that
the snake had bitten it in the neck, and had then bitten several
chickens and a hen under his bed before he got up. Mr.
Stratton doctored the calf, dog and hen, and all recovered.
It was too late for the chickens, for they were dying when
he discovered their condition. The dog always afterward had
a violent antipathy toward rattlesnakes, and would attack and
kill them whenever he could find them, and would prick up
his ears whenever the word snakes was mentioned. Mr.
Stratton believes he had carried the snake to the house in
the bark he had gathered up.
About 1865 Thomas Shoemaker, of Sharon township, was
bitten in the thumb by a rattlesnake while loading a grub
on his wagon, the reptile having nested in the roots. The
poor man died in two or three days, having suffered untold
agony.
The early history of Wayne county is very similar to that
of the history of other counties of southern Iowa. In the
first place the physical character of the county is substantially
the same as other counties in southern Iowa, and the first
settlers thereof met with the same trials and tribulations
common to the pioneers of other counties. One thing was com-
mon in the settlement of all of said counties. The pioneers did
not come in companies or colonies. They came along by them-
selves, or perhaps two or three persons from the same family
came at the same time. A great many of the pioneers of south-
ern Iowa came by water to Keokuk, and from there they wan-
dered westward — some of them stopping at different points or
places for a few years, and then again making another move.
For instance, it appears that quite a large number of the
first settlers in Lucas and Wayne counties stopx^ed for one or
two vears in the counties of Van Buren, elefferson or Lee.
The general physical appearance of the country is the same.
The streams are low and fringed with timber and brush, and
while the bottom lands are subject to overflow, yet they are
not, as a rule, marshy.
Quite a large majority of the first settlers of Wayne county
came from Ohio and Indiana. We have not been able to
correctly ascertain the very first settler in the county, but
the following named persons are thought to be among the
pioneers of the county, to wit: D. S. Duncan, James T.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 179
Rames, Jesse Barr, Isaac Wilson, Nathan Brown, Thomas
Joel, Kendall Rogers, A. A. Brown, E. Alephin, William
Guinn, S. L. Vest, L. L. Slaven, H. B. Duncan, Greenwood
Wright, AY. H. Riehman, H. R. Sullivan, David Sharp, Jacob
Chilcote, John W. Syfred, Thomas Richardson, James Camp-
bell, George Wright, Hartly Bracewell, John K. Rankin, G.
W. Wilkie, John E. Hayes, James Peck, J. Zimmerman, John
R. Allen, T. S. Hancock.
It is reported that H. B. Duncan, who came from Ken-
tucky, settled near the village of Lineville in Wayne county,
about November 13, 1841, and that he erected a cabin at that
point, and that he and his family slept in their w^agons until
their cabin home was completed. It is said that Mr. Duncan
supposed that he had settled in the State of Missouri, and
laboring under this belief he was elected and acted as one of
the county commissioners of Putman county in the State of
Missouri. He was also elected to the positions of probate
judge and as representative in the Missouri Legislature.
ORGANIZATION OF THE COUNTY
The territorv embraced in Wavne countv at one time
formed a part of Des Moines county. It was organized as
a separate county on January 13, 1846, and was then attached
to Appanoose county for judicial revenue and election
purposes.
On or about November 8, 1850, Dr. Isaac W. W. McCarty
was appointed as organizing sheriff by Judge William McKay,
of the district court, and on Fel^ruary 13, 1851, Wayne county
was duly organized as required by law.
It seems that under the law directing the manner of organ-
ization of counties, an officer named as the "organizing
sheriff" had the chief control in such proceedings. He fixed
the times and places of holding elections, and gave notice
when and where the same would be held. He was not elected
by the people, but was appointed to his office by the judge of
the district court. His duties were few, but they were impor-
tant, as he, in connection with the commissioners appointed
in the act of organization, instituted and directed all of the
proceedings of the new county until it passed under the juris-
diction and control of another band of county commissioners
elected by the people.
18U i'AST AXD TKESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
The inetliud of proceeding iii the urganizatiou of counties
was fixed by the organizing act adopted by tlie Legishiture.
All of the proceedings were to be conducted by and before a
commission of three persons, who were named as count}^ com-
missioners in the act of the Legislature.
In the case of Wavne countv, Talbot Rockhold, ^^^ B.
Hart, and Joseph Dwyer were aj^pointed as such conmiis-
sioners. Thev held a meeting on the 27th day of January,
1851, and at this meeting adopted man}^ measures wdiicli they
deemed necessary to complete the organization of Wayne
county. The folloAving is a copy of their proceedings verbatim :
ACT OF C0:MMISSI0XEruS COI^RT
First session January 27, 1851, met at house of James
Foxes and commenced business.
Act one allowed I. W. McCarty for organizing the county
as organizing sheriff, $20.
Act two allowed the clerk of Appanoose county for siryas
rendered by him, $6.55.
Act three allowed for stationary, bond and recorder, $6.70.
Act four allowed orders issued to judges and clerks of
election precintes, three in number, lawful 1 pay for their serv-
ices in election on the 28th of December, 1850, $37.35.
Act Fifth divided the county into iDrecinct and appointed
the judges of three of them, to wit :
No. 1. Deventh Fork precint, north-east quarter for
judges, Thos. Fitsgerral, Hase, and Joseph Dwyre, election
held at Joseph Dwyer's.
No. 2. Washington presint, north-west quarter for
judges, Wm. Hoge, Jas. Hammack and Wm. Lanman, held at
James Foxes.
No. 3. Jefferson pi-ecinte, south-west quarter for judges,
Henry P. Sullivan, Harvey B. Duncan and Joseph Hase, held
at Dickson S. Dunkins.
No. 4. Monroe precint, south-east quarter for judges,
Jno. A. Smith, Wm. R. Wright and Evan Carkendall, held
at the house of James T. Ranes.
Act six divided the county into thi'ce commissioners
districts.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 181
No. 1. Richland district.
No. 2. Cambria district.
No. 3. Madison distiict.
SKCOXI) DAY OF SAID SESSION
Act seven ordered an election on the 13th of Febrnary for
the clerk of district sheriff, coronor, county surveyor, judge
of probate and school fund commissioner.
Act eight ordered compensation sirvis rendered T. B.
Clifford providing stationar}^ $2.
Act nine ordered pay of rent for courthouse for James
Fox, $2.
Act ten for this term's sirA^as to wit : Commissioner Rock-
hold, two days, $4; Commissioner Hart, two days, $4; Clerk
of Court Thos. B. Clifford, two days, $4.
Act eleven adjourned until the last Monday in February,
1851.
At the election provided for at the above session three of
the precincts participated.
At the February session of the commissioners it was
ordered that the fourth district be organized on the first Mon-
day in April. Little business of impcjrtance or interest was
transacted in Fel)ruary. The county officers elected that
month held their office only until August following, when the
regular election occurred.
At the April session a settlement was made with the col-
lector, by which it appears that $35.75 of state taxes, $55.82
of county taxes, $20 of poll tax and $13.90 of school tax was
collected. The delinquent tax was $32.58, and the collector's
commission amounted to $4.95. The following statement
appears on the record: "Settled up the county business at
large and find on this day, the 8th of April, $66.37 in debt."
At this time Thos. B. Clifford acted in the complex posi-
ti(m of clerk, treasurer, I'ecorder and collector. He oj^ened
the township returns on the 4th of April and found foi- Wash-
ington township, Kellogg M. Hart and John Galloway elected
as justices; Daniel Hammock and Andrew Morgan, consta-
bles; John McGaughey, clerk; Wm. McCutcheon, treasurer;
James Sutton, Daniel Hanmiock and Kellogg M. Hart,
trustees.
182 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
For Madison township Setli Anderson was elected justice
of the peace : Madison Kirk, constable : James T. Ranes, clerk ;
James Bowers, treasurer : and Jesse Barr, supervisor.
The first important item of business to be transacted now
was to select the coimty seat and for this purpose Geo. W.
Perkins of Appanoose county, and Wm. Davis of Decatur
coimty, were appointed by the Legislature. Before entering
upon their duties the commissioners were required to take
the f ollowins: oath :
''We, Geo. W. Perkins, Wm. Da^is, do solemnly swear that
we have no personal interest, directly or indirectly, in the
location of the seat of justice of Wa;^'ne county, and that we
will faithfully and impartially locate the same according to
the best interests of said county, taking into consideration the
future as well as the present population of said county as we
shall answer to God at the areat dav.
"Geo. W. Pekkixs,
"Wm. Da^ts.
"May 6th, A. D. 1851.
"Subscribed and sworn to before me this 5th day of May,
A. D. 1851.
"Damd Xiday, district clerk."
The placing of the power in the hands of these two men
to absolutelv fix the site of the town for a countv seat would
be considered in modern times as a dangerous delegation of
power. It was a standing offer of a bribe to these commis-
sioners to fix the place of said town where it would be for their
best interests to have it located. But in the many towns that
were thus located we do not hear of any attempt to unduly
influence such commissioners in their judgment or action,
except that in Lucas county one party attempted to have the
county seat located on or near a certain tract of land in which
he was personally interested. But then the records show that
he did not attempt to secrete the fact of his interest from the
public. He sought to effect the location of the county seat
on or near his lands, on the ground it was the best possible loca-
tion for a new town. However, in this the other commission-
ers did not agree with liim. He appealed to the Legislature
in some manner, and presented a voluminous petition signed
by a comparatively large number of the settlers in favor of
his location, but when his petition was overruled he became
disgusted with the proceedings and left the country.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 183
The commissioners, Geo. W. Perkins, of Appanoose
county, and Wm. Davis, of Decatur county, reijoited the se-
lection and purchase of the following lands for a town site, to
wit: East half of southwest quarter and the west half of
southeast quarter of section 19 in townshi^j 69 north, range 21
west. Afterwards, during the simuner of 1851. the town was
partially surveyed by Benjamin Barker, the coimty surveyor,
and was afterwards finished by J. F. Stratton of Appanoose
county. The lots were owned by the county, and were sold at
Ijublic sale after being appraised.
The first lot was sold to Geo. Gaiman for 838. The county
did not have the money to pay for said land in the first
instance, but borrowed the money to pay for it. that is. $100
of John Xiday, and 879.50 from David Xiday. at ten per cent
interest.
The site selected is one mile north and a quarter of a mile
east of the geograj)hical center of the county. The commis-
sioners named the new town Springfield, but Geo. W. Cleaiy,
secretary of the State of Iowa, wi'ote to the clerk that there
was another town in the state named Springfield, and he sug-
gested that this town be called Anthony. The clerk. VTm..
McPherson. also favored the name of Anthony, but Judge An-
derson being from Corydon, Indiana, preferred calling their
proposed town Corydon. The parties being imable to agree
upon a name, it is said they finally deteiTiiiiied to decide the
matter by a game of poker. In this game Judge Anderson
was the victor and so the coimtv seat of Wavne countv re-
ceived the name of Corydon.
The business of the county was at that time conducted by
a coimty judge, and Seth Anderson occui3ied this position.
He was elected in August. 1851. and Thus. McPherson was
at the same time elected as clerk of the courts. The coimty
remained imder the system of county judge government until
the year 1861. when it was changed to that of a board of super-
visors made up of one from each organized township.
In the year 1871 the number of supervisors was by the
statute reduced to three. The iDractical working of that sys-
tem has proven satisfactory. It is both economical and
efficient.
The record of the early proceedings, after the organiza-
tion of the coimty. are not full and complete, making it diffi-
cidt to find a connected history thereof. From about the year
Vol I— 1 1
184 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
1861 to 1875 it was said, perhaps in a joke, that Judge G. I.
Wade kept most of the papers of his office in barrels arranged
in a row in the room, and when he was asked for some partic-
ular document he would answer in a perplexed manner, "If
I knew in what barrel it was I think I might find it. ' '
THE FIRST COURT
The first term of court in Wa3me county was held in the
spring of 1852 in a cabin house hastily constructed and still
in an unfinished condition. At the time of holding the court
therein the floor in this cabin was laid down loosely and only
one-half of the roof w^as completed; the walls were neither
chinked nor painted and a keg was used for the judge's desk.
Judge McKay expressed himself as satisfied and appeared
to be at home in this cabin courthouse. A grand jury was duly
impaneled and giyen in charge of the sheriff. As the coimty
had no jury rooms in those days, the jury were conducted to a
slough or rayine in the south part of town some distance from
the courthouse, where they seated themselyes on the grass
to discuss and consider the cases brought before them. At
the first term no criminal charge against any person w^as
submitted to the grand jury, and hence they soon returned to
the court room and reported that fact to the judge. They
were then duly discharged.
On the second day of that term of said court there was a
hard rain, attended by yiolent wdnd, which carried awa}^ some
court papers containing a memorandum of the eyidence relat-
ing to certain matters, and it is said that as these papers could
not be found the trials in the cases to which they were related
were postponed.
Amos Harris and H. Tannehill, attorneys of Centeryille,
were present at this first term of court held at Cory don.
THE FIRST COURTHOUSE
The first courthouse in Corydon was built by Wm. F. Lan-
caster and John Dayis in the year 1856 at a cost of $600. The
county also built a jail the same year. This first courthouse
was used until about the year 1871, and the jail was used about
ten years longer.
WAYNE COUNTY COURTHOrSE, CORYDON
THE I^E^^' "^^^
a;-
tilden fo■-^q'
A iQNS \
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 187
Wayne county has exiDeriencecl the trouble resulting from
a county seat war. While this war has not been bitter or
carried to the extent of a contest at elections over the ques-
tion, yet an existing threat by other towns to contest for the
county seat has necessarily, to some extent, retarded the
growth of Cory don by causing some people to belieye that
perhaps it was only a question of time when a change would be
made in the location of the county seat. But as Corydon is
located yery near the geographical center of the county on
lands well suited for town purposes, and as it is inhabited by
an energetic, enterprising class of business men, and as it
now has a commodious and comfoi'table courthouse with spa-
cious rooms for the county offices, it would seem that the ques-
tion of the permanent location of the county seat town is
foreyer settled.
The struggle of the people of Corydon to secure a com-
fortable and conyenient courthouse has continued for many
years. The question of leyying a tax for this purpose was
first submitted to the people at an election held in the year
1869, but the yote resulted as follows:
For the courthouse, 369 yotes; against the courthouse,
1,082; being a majority of 713 yotes against the proposition.
Again, in the year 1872, this question was submitted to the
people at the presidential election held that year. A yery
full yote was had — this being a presidential year — but there
was a majority against the ^proposition this year amounting
to 1,301 yotes. Two years later the board of superyisors sub-
mitted to the people the question of the relocation of the
county seat again. The contest was between the towns of
Corydon and Allerton. At this election Corydon receiyed
1,467 yotes and Allerton 927 yotes. But notwithstanding this
decisiye yote between these two towns, the proposition to yote
a fiye mill tax to build a courthouse was rejected by a yote of
690 for the tax, to a yote of 1,385 against the tax.
Again, in the year 1879, this question about building a
new courthouse was submitted to the yoters of the county and
resulted as follows : 715 for the tax, to 1,771 against the tax.
THE LAST COUKTHOrSE
About the year 1890 the citizens of Corydon concluded that
in order to hold the county seat it became absolutely neces-
188 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
sary for them to construct and tender to the countv a court-
house suitable for the purpose of the county. They had tried
in vain to induce the county to vote a small tax for this pur-
pose, but they had failed and nothing was left but an effort
to build this house at their own expense. It looked like a
herculean task for the people of this small town to raise a
sufficient amount of money to build such a house. They dis-
cussed various schemes to raise this monev. One of the
schemes suggested was to plat a row of lots on the public
square, all around the square, for business lots, and sell them,
and use the i^roceeds in building this house.
However, after carefully examining this proposition they
concluded to abandon it as not being feasible. Various legal
objections were raised to it, which would operate to delay the
consummation thereof even if they found it desirable.
After discussing and weighing various propositions they
concluded that if lliev built the house at all, the monev re-
quired to pay for it must be raised principally from the
citizens of the town by such subscriptions, and the papers
being prepared the proper committees were appointed to
circulate the same and ascertain whether or not sufficient
monev could be raised therebv.
B}^ energetic work they secured the sum of $18,000. This
looked like a very small sum with which to pay for a house
of this character, but at that time the prices of labor and
building materials were very low as compared with the prices
at this time, and they resolved to make the attempt to build
such courthouse with this amount of money.
They succeeded. Strange to say, with the sum of $18,000
thus subscribed they built a commodious house with a large
court room and with large commodious offices amply sufficient
for the transaction of all the business of the county. Such a
house could not be built at this time at the present prices of
labor and materials for less than $40,000. This shows what
industry and economy will effect. This house would be a
credit to any county and will be amply sufficient for use as a
courthouse and for office rooms for the county officers for the
next twenty-five years. It has had the effect to settle the
county seat controversy perhaps for ever. The fact that
Corydon is located within one mile of the geographical center
of the county furnishes a strong reason for the location of
the county seat at that place.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 189
THE BOUNDARY LINE CONTROVERSY
Wayne county was at one time interested in a boundary
line controversy between the State of Missouri and the State
of Iowa. Quite a number of the people of Missouri claimed
that the northern line of the State of Missouri extended ei2ht
to ten miles north of a line where Iowa people claimed it was.
It is difficult to ascertain the exact cause of such controversy
or how it originated. From the best information that we have
been able to obtain, Missouri claimed that Iowa in defining
the boundaries of the counties bordering on the Missouri state
line had fixed such boundarv line about ten miles further south
than it should be. The Constitution of Missouri defined her
northern boundary to be the parallel of latitude which passes
through the rapids of the Des Moines river.
The lower rapids of the Mississippi immediately above the
mouth of the Des Moines river had always been known as
Des Moines rapids, or "the rapids of the Des Moines river."
The Missourians, (evidently not being well versed in his-
tory or geogi'aphy), insisted on running the northern bound-
ary line from the rapids in the Des Moines river just below
Keosauqua, thus taking from Iowa a strip of land or terri-
tory eight or ten miles wide. Assuming this as her northern
boundary line, Missouri attempted to exercise jurisdiction
over this strip of disputed territory by assessing taxes on the
property therein located and sending her sheriffs to collect
the same by distraining the personal i^roperty of the settlers
living on said strip.
The lowans, however, refused to submit to such taxation,
and the Missouri officials who came to collect such taxes were
arrested by the sheriifs of Davis and Van Buren counties in
Iowa, and placed in jail. Then Governor Boggs of Missouri
called out his militia, and Governor Lucas of Iowa called out
the militia of Iowa, and both parties made prejjarations to
engage in civil war.
In Iowa about twelve hundred men were enlisted, and 500
were actually armed and encamped in Van Buren county,
Iowa, ready to defend the claims of Iowa to this disputed ter-
ritory. Afterwards Gen. A. C. Dodge of Burlington, Iowa,
General Churchman of Dubuque, and Doctor Clark of Fort
Madison were sent to Missouri to effect a compromise or set-
tlement of this controversy if possible by a peaceable adjust-
lyu PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
ment thereof, but on their arrival they found that the county
commissioners of Clark county, Missouri, had rescinded their
order for the collection of taxes, and Governor Boggs had dis-
patched messengers to the governor of Iowa preparing to
submit an agreed case to the supreme court of the United
States for the final settlement of this boundary question.
This proposition was declined by the Iowa authorities, but
afterwards Congress authorized a suit to settle this question,
which was instituted and which resulted in a judgment con-
firming the claims of Iowa to the proper location of said line.
Under this decision William G. Miner of Missouri and
Henry B. Hendershott of Iowa were appointed commission-
ers to survev and establish said boundarv line. It is said that
the expenses of this war on the part of Iowa were never paid
by any one, and hence the patriots who furnished supplies
for the troops who met to enforce the claims of Iowa to this
strip of territory never received any sum for their time or
services.
We cannot understand how this could occur, but it seems
to be well verified, but we do not see any justice in compelling
individuals to bear the expense of this war. Under this deci-
sion Wavne countv secured about 20,480 additional sections
of valuable land.
l^HE WAR RECORD OF WAYNE COUNTY
While the coimty records fail to disclose the number and
names of the many gallant soldiers that Wayne county has
furnished our Government in its effort to crush the greatest
rebellion know to history and preserve the union of the states,
yet with the valuable assistance of Captain W. M. Little, I
have been able to ascertain the names of these heroes, and
if this publication has no other use or purpose than to collect
and preserve the names and services and sacrifices of these
men, it becomes and is valual^le.
In order that we may properly estimate the value of the
services rendered the country by the men who vohuitarily
risked their lives in the preservation of the Union, let us for
one moment think of the position or situation in which we.
as a people, would be today, if the so called Confederate states
had succeeded in their attempt to destroy our Government.
Think of an imaginary line extending through the country
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 191
from the lakes of the North to the evergreen A^erdure of the
South. On one side of this line we can see a Government
founded upon human slavery, and on the other a Govern-
ment founded upon the theory that "all men are created free
and equal." On both sides we can see large standing armies
and battlements of war to enforce these contradictorv forms
of human government. What a home for our children, and
our childrens' children ! Talk of Mexico — talk about the daily
revolutions in South America — and think of our great nation,
with the best form of government ever devised by man, pass-
ing from the heights of human wisdom in the structure of
government, to the lowest caricatures of human government.
Rome in her palmy days never had such a soldiery ; and Rome
in the days of her degeneracy never reached that point in
human degradation to which we were fast passing when we
were saved by the soldiers. Their names and deeds should be
emblazoned in our history and written in letters legible and
intelligible in the records of every county in the state.
As before stated, the records of Wayne county fail to show
the full history of its soldiers. We know that such failure
does not occur by reason of a failure to appreciate the services
and sacrifices of these men. No more patriotic people ever
existed in any county or state than the people of Wayne
county. It is not the only county that has failed to keep sucli
record. This failure to provide for such record arises from
the fact that where a duty rests upon a large number of peo-
ple, they are too apt to conclude that others will discharge
such duty, and hence it is likely to be neglected. It frequently
happens that one man, or a few men, without reward or the
hope thereof, voluntarily contribute their time and services
in the discharge of duties devolving upon the public. In some
counties in the state, local historical societies and old settlers
associations have been organized, and the chief object and
purpose of such organizations has been to collect and pre-
serve the history of the county. In such counties the history
of their soldiers have ])een carefully collected and preserved.
As hereinbefore stated, we are indebted to Capt. William
M. Little of the Twentv-third regiment of Iowa Volunteers
for the history of the soldiers of Wayne count3\ While there
may be minor mistakes and omissions in this record, yet for-
tunately for the memory of these soldiers the statements of
historians can and will be verified, confirmed or corrected.
192 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
aud in the end, this record can and will be corrected in accord-
ance with the exact facts.
LIST OF WAYNE COUNTY SOLDIERS
We are led to believe that the following is a correct list
of all soldiers furnished bY WaYne countY under the different
calls for soldiers bv President Lincoln and the GoYernor of
Iowa, to wit:
Third Iowa Cavalry from Wayne County
W. C. Drake, Micajah Baker, H. D. B. Cutler, W. A.
Wright, B. S. Jones, C. W. King, J. W. Honnold, Company
L; B. F. Veatch, Company L; B. M. Belville, Company M.
Company D
John P. Shepherd, W. F. Coulter, Fuel Collins, John
Lewis, Robert Price, James Fitzgerald, S. C. Herbert, Miles
Lewis, Simeon Veatch, Samuel Mahana, Abiram Lambert, W.
S. Pechin, H. T. Honnold, W. H. H. Rogers, Eli Weagiey,
Wm. Kelso, J. A. Hassell, W. B. AVarren, W. P. Morrison, W.
H. Adams, J. W. Brooks, E. R. Belvel, Manaen Collins, J. B.
Dean, J. N. Farnsworth, J. P. Houser, J. W. Howard, I. C.
Hutchinson, AVm. Kelso, T. H. Lee, Henry Lee, J. D. Fergai-
son, W. H. Kimple, J. S. Rogers, Robert Kelso, George
Kimple, E. S. Rogers, Charles Keys, J. W. Davis.
Recruits in Company A
H. W. Crosthwaite, F. M. Fitzgerald, S. J. Goodin, John
Goodin, L. W. Greenough, Frank Hardesty, C. M. Hume,
Samuel McReynolds, Joseph Ogle, James Pace, H. A. Thorp,
J. W. Vest, Thomas Young.
Company F
William B. Job.
Company L
R. P. Abel, J. J. Fisher, Henry Fisher, J. B. Herbert.
Company M
G. W. Bates, G. H. Farnsworth, Adelbert Gray, John
Howry, Perry Hill, W. H. Johnson, G. C. Jennings, J. F.
Kirk, Henry Liuder, Joseph Lawson, J. E. McCune, I. D.
McCarty, Franklin McCorkle, W. S. Osborn, C. A. Osborn,
G. T. Sheldon, S. D. Sarver, I. N. Smith, Wm. Tinkham, A.
M. Varner, Hiram Vanpelt, N. B. Williams, Chas. R. Wright,
J. C. Zimmerman, John Brock, G. W. Davidson, L. W. Green,
PAST AND PRESENT OP WAYNE COUNTY 193
John Henry, Stephen Landers, J. S. Osborn, Julius Peehin,
C. M. Poeter, W. A. Porter, W. H. H. Rogers, Daniel Secrest,
I). A. Wolf, M. Young. (See 18 Mo.)
Co}Hp(iiiu I , Fourt/i loii'd Iiifantrij from Wayne County
W. E. Taylor, Fred Crathorne, G. L. McCune, Robt. S.
Jackson, G. A. Robinson, Wm. J. Wilson, John Kepliner,
B. R. Kellogg, Robert Laing, Marshall Nelson, R. J. Lan-
caster, J. M. Steele, M. S. Campbell, B. S. Everett, D. T. Sher-
wood, H. S. Trumbull, S. B. Parr, Reuben Barker, W. E.
Crawford, Evan Rhodes, J. A. Harper, C. H. Young, A. D.
Slocum, N. E. Slocum, D. F. Allen, J. T. Atkinson, D. W.
Black, Calvin Barker, Benjamin Barker, O. J. Barker, George
Brock, Willis Booth, George Blair, M. V. Brotherton, W. W.
Bixler, N. F. Coppell, Thomas Church, D. P. Cameron, J. F.
Clapp, Geo. C. Duncan, Hans Ericson, J. J. Estes, J. A. Flet-
cher, Levi Fry, J. B. Finch, J. D. Finch, John Forrest, R. W.
Fonts, J. J. Fisher, L. T. Greenlee, D. L. Hare, Henry Houk,
John Hammack, C. M. Hough, G. J. Havner, Elias Jackson,
J. O. Johnson, David Litler, A. E. Lancaster, M. S. Lancaster,
Isaiah Lewis, J. M. Littell, Royal Messenger, D. B. Messenger,
S. J. Messenger, C. J. Morgan, Phillip Miskimmins, E. M.
Miskimmins, Benj. F. Muden, Joseph Munden, J. W. McNeil,
S. D. Markham, Wm. Moore, S. H. Moore, J. G. McConnell,
F. L. Nelson, Marshall Nelson, G. W. Nickum, Charles
O 'Bryan, James Poplin, Caleb Pumphrey, Nelson Place, S.
B. Parr, Elias Ratliffe, Lemuel Ratlift'e, W. B. Ramey, W. H.
Raybu]-n, Josejoh Raurk, Thomas Sharp, Martin Sharp, John
Sires, N. J. Shuler, Isaac Stephens, W. W. Thompson, The-
ophilius Thompson, J. F. Utter, W. B. Vogle, John Williams,
Samuel Williams, Henry Wolf, Hugh West, Joseph Young.
Recruits
W. M. Allen, J. W. Atkinson, D. G. Brown, C. S. Brock,
John Croft, J. L. Button, D. C. Forest, T. T. Foster, Levi
George, F. M. Gibbs, Morris Greenlee, J. R. Games, G. J.
Laing, J. H. Miller, Green McDaniel, Henry McDaniel, Scin-
ton Niday, R. G. M. Poplin, W. G. Pennebaker, W. A. Rat-
liff, W. W. Robinson, Frederick Rush, Wm. Scritchfield, G.
N. Sutton, A. S. Sires, T. P. Thompson, D. S. Kirk, S. S.
Sharp, J. L. Allen, D. T. Case, W. T. Llewellen, C. G. Nelson.
194 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
Enlistments in Comjoany D, Twenty-thiy^d Iowa Infantry
from Wayne County
S. L. Glasgow, J. W. Glasgow, Hiram Evans, W. M. Littell,
J. B. Ormsby, Aquilla Stanclifircl, Frank Cratliorne, H. K.
Banta, Josiah Bridges, Joseph Bland, F. M. Bland, Wm.
Bland, Henry Bobinhonse, R. G. Browning, J. F. Browning,
W. S. Browning, P. N. Brock, Noah Brock, J. W. Boone, J.
M. Bond, C. C. Batterell, P. H. Barto, W. T. Cameron,
Richard Campbell, Morrison Collins, M. L. Collins, Joseph
Cavender, James Cavender, Lorenzo Colbnrn, W. H. Clancy,
J. N. Douglass, W. A. Douglass, G. AV. Dean, J. H. Davis,
A. J. Davis, Jacob Emerett, J. W. Eastman, John Fulton, H.
M. Fitzgerald, John Foster, Silas Farnsworth, L. B. Gardner,
Edward George, Calvin Gleason, S. F. Greenman, D. C. Green-
man, J. N. Glasgow, Samuel Yayes, Cornelius Yayes, Wm.
Hogue, Brice Hakcer, Phillip Hammack, J. A. Harbard, J.
W. Knight, T. H. Knight, H. M. Kellogg, J. J. Lyon, E. C.
Lyon, T. H. Laughlin, C. G. Monk, G. W. Munden, J. A. Mil-
ligan, J. E. Moore, Miller Meserve, S. P. Monl, J. W. C.
McMasters, A. E. Maris, W. H. Morrison, I. E. Owen, Henry
Osborn, Calvin Pritchard. Alexander Perkins, James Roe,
J. W. Rankin, L. H. Rankin, W. M. Rankin, J. T. Sharp, G.
W. Sharp, H. J. Sharp, Henry Shane, D. G. Slavens, J. W.
Stine, Lewis Smith, F. A. Sturgeon, J. M. Torr, Perry TuUis,
J. A. Tabler, Thomas Tharp, Joel W. White, James M.
White, W. F. Wilkie, E. B. Wilkie, A. C. Wilson, J. W. Wolf,
Hiram York, M. G. Young, J. D. Young, J. C. Young, J. J.
Yearwood.
Company F, Tliirty-fourtli Iowa Infantry
from Wayne County
J. N, McClanahan, Columbus Parr, James Bracewell,
John George, Samuel Scott, H. M. Belvel, J. T. Smith, J. B.
Hatton, J. M. Parr, Wm. Leighton, Henry Shell, J. R. Davis,
2nd, A. F. Grabill, B. F. Jared, S. H. Clawson, Tyra Lines,
J. W. Smith, R. G. Arnold, B. B. Gardner, J. A. Belvel, G.
A. Bennett, J. W. Bennett, W. B. Bridgewater, S. B. Bur-
rought, F. P. Barlow, David Bean, Davis Bott, Frederick
Bott, Valentine Bott, Valentine Butz, H. H. Bobinhonse, D.
R. Craig, A. B. Cook, Charles Callaway, Benjamin Corbin,
Ijeander Croxil, J. R. Davis, 1st, J. M. Davis, W. R. Davis,
A. W. Drake, J. AV. Dixon, Isaiah Fanshier, R. C. Games,
Joseph Gough, Wm. George, John Goodin, M. C. Hutchinson,
Bird's-eye View
North Side of Square
A Fishing Party
Street Scene
Power Plant
City Park
VIEWS IX AND ABOUT SEYMOUR
rTT^TT YOTlK
F
T^ r
BRAKti
,,DAnONS
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 197
O. W. Heckathorn, L. A. Hook, J. W. Hook, Calvin Holder,
J. C Jackson, J. S. Jones, W. T. Kelly, Wm. Kelly, Hiram
Keith, Willis Lavender, Dennis Leazer, Andrew Long, Robert
Mitchell, Thomas Murphy, N. A. McCarty, Joseph McCorckle,
Wm. McCullough, J. G. Nida.y, Cornelius Niday, George
Oakes, Isaac Oakes, James Peck, A. W. Prather, Enoch Parr,
B. T. Renshaw, John Roberts, J. R. Rayburn, Winfield Scott,
P. W. Syferd, H. G. Sarver, J. T. Selby, L. C. States, Isaiah
Strayer, W. C. Sterritt, P. L. Stech, Henry Thomas, D. M.
Thomas, W. I. Tyler, Stephen Utley, M. K. Whitset, J. E.
Wright, Wm. Walters, L. H. Wolf, J. A. Wolf.
Becruits
J. B. Nash.
Com pail ij H, Fourtij-sixth Iowa
W. W. Thomas, Wm. A. Brown, Geo. F. Day, R. W. Mar-
tin, John Clapp, Pailman Allen, A. A. Clark, Alexander
Davis, B. F. Shepherd, R. M. Leach, Columbus Parr, D. S.
Coddington, J. L. Wiley, Hugh Walker, W. P. Allred, H. C.
Blakely, J. W. Brooks, Mathias Clark, Jabez Clark, J. E.
Cowgill, Jackson Cook, George Coram, G. W. Chapman,
Charles Claybaugh, H. M. Duncan, James Dodrill, R. N.
Davis, W. J. Duskin, J. A. Duncan, E. S. Evans, S. P. Gray,
J. B. Gatliff, L. C. Gibbs, A. H. Hayworth, A. L. Hayworth,
Orrin Hewit, H. C. Havner, Reuben Harris, Hugh Hinshaw,
Andrew Humphreys, E. P. Hewit, Asa Howard, J. A. Lewis,
A. C. Lower, David Loughman, G. T. Loughman, Michael
Lohr, James McMurtrey, J. G. McNeil, W. G. McColm, Virgil
Messenger, A. A. Mace, W. B. Odell, H. C. Roby, P. W. Reece,
H. P. Sharp, Abel Still, S. M. Sharp, W. J. Trogden, W. C.
Tliornl)urg, J. M. Underwood, A. W. Vogler, Thomas Wil-
liams, Abner TB. or C. ) Wilev, H. A. Wilev.
Company K
Delanev Swinnev, Peter Zents.
Company — , Eighteenth Missouri Infantry
Zebulin Alfjliin, K ; Luke Alphin, B ; G. H. Coddington,
B ; Abraham Drake ; John Drake, B ; George W. Eli, B ; O. E.
Gridley, K ; Perry Hardin, B ; David Hardin, B ; James Har-
din, B; Alexander Hardin, B ; H. S. Lyons, K; John Leigh-
ton, B ; Humphrey Leighton, B ; Cal Manda, K ; Matthew
Morris, B ; Samuel Penwell, B ; J. M. Rogers, G ; I. T. Richie,
B; Noah Rogers; David Sturgeon, K; T. Slavsen, B; J. F.
Wilson, K; Landon Wilson, K: Greenberv Wilson, B; Isaac
198 PAST AND PKESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
Wilson, B ; Geo. S. S. Ward, B ; John Vance ; Thomas Wilson,
B; Samuel Wilson, B; Dennis Morris, B; Thomas Hatfield,
B.
Sixth Iowa Infantry
M. S. Campbell, Dan Frankhouser, Geo. Albertson.
Company B
J. M. Littell, J. M. Bond, W. J. Wilson.
Company A
Wm. Kellogg, Isaac Kellogg, David Kellogg.
Thirty-si jctli Iowa Infantry
H. G. May, J. W. May, J. N. Wright.
Company F
E. L. Davis, A. A. Hancock, S. W. AYright, R. D. Fonts,
R. M. Faris, Jacob Huiat, M. A. Hancock, W. G. Johnson,
Columbus Jenkins, Perigo Wesley, C. W. Rickman, J. H.
Rickman, L. H. Zents.
Company G
James T. Grass, John T. Grass.
Company L
James Odell.
Recruits, Company F
W. E. Chapman, D. N. Gard, AVm. H. Wright. •
Company D
Benjamin R. Shipley.
Thirty-seventh Iowa Infantry
Company G
F. E. Brown, S. H. Draper, Daniel Williams.
Company K
Reece Wolf. .
Eighth Iowa Cavalry
Compayiy D
B. L. Fitzgerald, Thomas Brown, Silas Beals, W. L.
Clapp, John Ellis, Nath'l Harless, Charles Kelly, Harrison
Mace, M. H. Niday, Henry Stricklin, AVm. Stults, Robert
Vance.
Company F
John B. Dey, W. W. Goodin.
Company H
Wm. Christy, J. W. Duskin, R. S. McDonald, G. W. Mc-
intosh, E. R. Morrison, Martin Read, John Root, S. C. Trog-
den, J. J. Walker.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 199
Company L
C. C. Jackson, D. C. Ross, S. K. Wrann, I. M. Allen, J.
A. Brock.
Seventh Cavalry, Company D
James Quails.
Fourth Cavalry
Allen Garton, Wm. A. Hall, J. D. Havner, R, N. Kritser,
Joshua Moore, Jacob S. Morrett, Henry Tuttle.
First Iowa Battery
W. B. Warren, John M. Williams.
Tenth Kansas Infantry
Company K
J. W. Scott, E. S. Holliday, J. P. Blazer, P. M. Phillips,
John H. Surratt, John Stoggsdill.
Sixth Kansas Cavalry, Company B
Andrew Sigler, Wm. B. Davis, Eli H. Davis.
Seventh Illinois Cavalry, Company H
Samuel F. Pottorff.
Fifty-ninth Illinois Infantry, Company B
J. R. V. Atkinson.
First loiva Infantry (African Descent) Company D
George W. Ray.
Twenty-third Missouri Infantry, Company I
Joseph Ackley, W. E. Prince.
Seventh Missouri Cavalry (S. M.) Company I
John Smith.
Company K
W. W. Collins, John T. Morrison, J. R. Domer, Joseph
Mapes.
List of Officers from Wayne County with their highest rank
Brig.-Gen. S. L. Glasgow.
Lieut.-Col. B. F. Jones, Third Cavalry.
Lieut, and Adjt. H. D. B. Cutler, Third Cavalry.
Major W. C. Drake, Third Cavalry.
Second Lieut. Mica j a Baker, Third Cavalry.
Second Lieut. W. A. Wright, Third Cavalry.
Capt. W. E. Taylor, Fourth Infantry.
Capt. Fred Crathorne, Fourth Infantry.
Capt. Robt. Laing, Fourth Infantry.
First Lieut. Geo. A. Robinson, Fourth Infantry.
First Lieut. G. J. Lang, Fourth Infantry.
Second Lieut. G. S. McCune, Fourth Infantry.
200 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
Second Lieut. Robert S. Jackson, first killed.
Capt. J. W. Glasgow, Twenty-third Infantiy.
Capt. H. Evans.
Capt. W. M. Little.
First Lieut. Frank Crathorne, Tw^enty-third Infantry.
Second Lieut. J. B. Ormsdry, Twenty-third Infantry.
Second Lieut. A. S. Tanadred, Twenty-third Infantry.
Capt. J. N. M. Clanahan, Thirty-fourth Infantry.
Capt. John B. Hatton, Thirty-fourth Infantry.
First Lieut. W. T. Kelly, Thirty-fourth Infantry.
First Lieut. Sam. H. Clawson, Thirty-fourth Infantry.
Second Lieut. B. F. Jared.
Capt. W. W. Thomas, Forty-sixth Infantry.
First Lieut. Pailmon Allen, Firty-sixth Infantry.
HISTOKY OF WAYNE COUNTY SOLDIERS IN OTHER REGIMENTS
First. The first soldiers to enter the services of the United
States in the War of the Rebellion enlisted in Company B,
Sixth Iowa Infantry, at Chariton on the first day of July,
1861, and they were: Daniel Frankhouser, first corporal;
George Albertson, seventh corporal; Mathew S. Campbell,
James M. Little, John M. Bond, Wm. J. AVilson. They were
mustered into the service July 17, 1861, at Burlington, Iowa.
Of these Frankhouser and Albertson served in this regiment
throughout the war. Bond deserted and afterwards enlisted
in the Twenty-third Iowa and served throughout the war,
honorably. Campbell was killed in a skirmish at Baldwins
Ferry, Mississippi, September 11, 1863, as a member of Com-
pany I, Fourth Iowa Infantry, to which he had been trans-
ferred. James M. Little died at Rolla, Missouri, February
13, 1862, from the result of measles, as a member of Company
I, Fourth Iowa Infantry, to which he had been transferred.
Wm. J. Wilson died as O. S. Company I, Fourth Iowa
Infantry, at St. Louis, Missouri, April 8, 1863, of chronic
diarrhea.
Second. Company I, Fourth Iowa Infantry, enlisted in
August, September and October, 1861, the total enrollment
being 122. Of this number 117 were men from Wayne
county. The company was ordered into quarters by the
Governor of the state August 2nd, 1861, and were mustered
into the service of the United States at St. Louis, Missouri,
PAST AND PKESEXT OF WAYNE COUNTY 201
August 31st, 1861, under call for troops by the President of
the United States, dated May 3rd, 1861. There were 32 re-
cruits added to the company during the war and of these 30
came from AVayne county. The total enrollment of Company
I during the war was 154, and of these 147 came from Wayne
county ; six of whom were killed in action. The Fourth Iowa
Infantry for the entire war had : 60 killed in action ; 70 died
of wounds; 239 of disease; 319 wounded in action; 299 dis-
charged for cause; 44 ca^jtured; 34 officers resigned.
Third. The Third Iowa Cavalry enlisted in August,
1861. Wayne county was represented in four companies,
Company D had 1 ; Company I, 1 ; Company L, 12 and Com-
pany M, 19. Of additional enlistments, Company L had 5
and Company M had 43. Total Wayne county men in the
right, 84. The right was mustered into the service of the
United States September 12, 1861. The right had killed in
action, 58 ; died of wounds, 19 ; disease, 224 ; discharged, 305 ;
wounded in action, 155, and captured, 141.
Fourth. Company D, Twenty-third Iowa, enlisted July
26, 1862; mustered into the service September 19, 1862, at
Des Moines, Iowa, under call of July 2, 1862. Total enroll-
ment of the company, 99; additional enlistments, 2; of these
there were two killed in action ; total killed in the right during
the war, 41 ; died of wounds, 33 ; disease, 198 ; discharged,
181 ; wounded in action, 131 ; captured, 3 ; officers resigned, 27.
Fifth. Company F, Thirty-fourth Iowa Infantry, enlisted
in August, 1862. Mustered into the service October 15, 1862,
at Burling-ton, Iowa, under the call of July 2, 1862. Total
enrollment of the company, 95 ; total from Wayne county, 92 ;
of these there were killed in action, none ; total killed in right
during the war, 4; died of wounds, 3; disease, 230; dis-
charged, 314; wounded in action, 16; captured, 4; officers re-
signed, 28.
Sixth. Company H, Forty-sixth low^a Infantry, enlisted
in Mav and June, 1864, for one hundred davs. Mustered
into service June 10, 1864, at Davenport, Iowa. Total en-
rollment of company, 86; total enrollment from Wayne
county, 66; in other companies, 2; of these killed in action,
none ; total killed in the right during the war, 2, accidentally ;
died of wounds, 1 ; disease, 23 ; wounded in action, 1.
Seventh. There were Wayne county men in other rights
as follows :
202 PAST AND PRESENT OP' WAYNE COUNTY
Thirty-sixth Iowa Infantry, 23 ; Thirty-seventh Iowa In-
fantry, 4 ; Eighth Iowa Cavalry, 31 ; Seventh Iowa Cavalry,
1; Fourth Iowa Cavalry, 5; First- Iowa Battery, 2; Sixth
Kansas Battery, 1 ; Tenth Kansas Infantry, 6 ; Seventh Illi-
nois Cavalry, 1 ; Fifty-ninth Illinois Infantry, 1 ; Eighteenth
Missouri Infantry, 28; Twenty-third Missouri Infantry, 2;
Seventh Missouri State Militia Cavalry, 5; First Iowa In-
fantry, 1; making 112.
Wayne county was represented in the Sixth Iowa In-
fantry by 6 men ; Fourth Iowa Infantry by 135 ; Third Cav-
alry, 105 ; Twenty-third Infantry, 99 ; Thirty-fourth Infantry,
92; Forty-sixth Infantry, 65; all other rights, 117. Total
from Wayne county, 608.
The estimate number of men available for military dutv
in Wayne county (not official) in January, 1862, was 1,119;
official, in January, 1863, 439 ; in 1864, 583 ; in 1865, 721 and
in 1866, 974. You will notice that out of the 1,119 men that
were available in January, 1862, about 350 enlisted during the
year; then about 300 or more of the 1,119 proved to be
unavailable in the enumeration of January, 1863.
We may conclude from the above that the total number of
men in Wavne countv available for militarv dutv, when the
war commenced, was just about 1,000; of these 608 entered
the army, which is considerably more than one-half. How
many counties in the United States did as well '?
LETTERS FROM CAPTAIN WILLIAM M. LITTLE
The following extracts from the letters of Captain Wil-
liam M. Little to his wife furnish a detailed history of the
services of Wavne countv soldiers, which the citizens of
Wayne county will read with interest. They tell the simply
unvarnished story of the services and sacrifices of these
men, and, in fact they give us a correct view^ of the life and
sacrifices of all of the soldiers who fought to preserve the
Union.
''Des Moixes, Iowa, August 9, 1862.
"Dear Wife: We have just arrived in Des Moines and
are all reasonably well. I don't know that I will have time
to give you a full history of the trip, but will give 3^ou some
of the points.
PAST AND PRESExXT OF WAYNE COUNTY 203
"In the first place, we left, and it is not necessary to say
that it was hard — very hard, but I can't give you any idea of
the reality, but we left and lived, though it nearly took the
hair off. You have heard of the dinner at Bethlehem. It
was a success in every particular. The table was spread in
an unfinished church. We marched in in single file, until
the tables were filled. The blessing was asked by Rev. Case
of Bethlehem, and after dinner he gave a short address and
a very appropriate one, which was responded to by Capt.
S. L. Glasgow. We then gave three cheers for the people of
Bethlehem and vicinity.
"As we went into town we w^re met by the men in one
company and the women in another. We reached Chariton
a little after dark, but did not get our suppers until after 9
o'clock. We then camped on the second floor of the court
house. I slept remarkably well, all things considered, a lit-
tle more than four hours.
"Yesterday we left Chariton and drove to Indianola. We
stopped at Lacona for dinner. Had a very patriotic and
feeling speech from a lady that was traveling our road, then
came to Indianola.
"After supper we had a splendid speech from Mr. Adams
of Des Moines. He took stronger grounds than I had ever
heard taken in public. After he was through Captain Glas-
gow was called on and he made a short but stirring speech,
taking stronger grounds, if possible, than Adams did.
"The soil about Indianola will produce stronger argument
than the Wa}Tie county soil will — Secesh does not prosper
quite so well. We left Indianola this morning and arrived
in town just at 2 o'clock. We have just put up at Collins'
house awaiting further orders.
"The boys cheered every finale they saw on the road.
They are all in good spirits, and full of fun. The prospect
is good for us getting in as Company B. There is one com-
pany ahead of us and it is likely we will go in as such in
the Twenty-third Regiment.
"In coming here, I was a little like a cow— when I got
off my old tramping ground I drove better.
' ' From
"WlLL.^'
Vol I— 1 2
204 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
"Des Moixes, Iowa, August 11, 1862.
"Dear Nax: Four of tlie bovs are on the sick list on
account of change of water, dirt and camp life.
"We don't know what company or right we will go into
yet, but we will stay here for some time, as we commenced
to build barracks today. We done our first drilling this
morning and have to go at it again this afternoon. I like
the drilling very well. The greatest trouble is, we don't get
enough of it to do much good, though that will be all right
after a while, as we wall be likely to have plenty of it. I
must now go to dinner and then drill.
"Well, we have just been going on the double quick and
it is inclined to w^arm a fellow up a little when the weather
is as warm as it is now.
"I see that old Father Abraham has issued another call
for 300,000 more men. What do vou think of it? I believe
I know your mind; but what does the South Fork Secesh
think of it? It will make them stick out their eyes so that
you can knock them off with a grape vine. Stanton's orders
(bully of Stanton) Avill come down on them rather hard.
"Well, I think there is a grand strategic movement about
to come off some place before long from the way things are
turning around in government matters. I think that McClel-
lan wall just lie on his oars until the two last calls are in the
field, and then if he is the man in the right place, Richmond
will be sunk lower than that other place jou read about. If
it is not, I will always think it ought to be. I have heard
since I left that Bill Lyon said that rather than see the
course of the administration carried out he would see the
government simk so low that hell could not revive it, but the
time for talking that way is jDast.
' ' Yours,
"W. M. Little.'^
"Des Moines, August 16, 1862.
"Dear Wife: We have just been from home ten days,
but it appears to be a month. Sam asked me a few moments
ago if I wrote all the time. If I do wa-ite often I don't write as
often as I would like to, because w^e only drill about one
hour in the forenoon and one in the afternoon. We have
the same routine to go through wath every day. We get up
in the morning and eat breakfast — drill — eat dinner — drill —
PAST ASD PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 205
eat supper — go to bed and the balance of the time lounge
around, but there has to be fifteen men detailed from the
company for the regiment every day, not excepting Sundays.
"Tomorrow (Sabbath) is my day to go and take charge of
the detachment. It appears to be a military necessity as
there are 2,000 soldiers expected here by the 1st of next
week. There are six companies and parts of companies here
now and the town is filled from corner to corner.
"There are about one hundred and fifty boarding here
(Union House) and every other hotel in town is about full.
Nearly all of the company are having the diarrhoea, I have
an appetite now that ought to satisfy any person. Can drink
three cups of coffee, but have to be careful a])out what I eat.
Eat principally bread, butter and coffee.
"Our arms and clothing are here, but we can't get them
until the Right is organized, which may be any day, as we
are looking for the mustering officer every day.
"Yours,
"WlLL.^^
"Camp Buexside, August 22, 1862.
"Dear Nan: H. Evans arrived here yesterday, with his
recruits. All fine looking men, except one, and I think he
is too small to get in.
"When the teams came in yesterday you never heard such
shoutins- as was done. I think the ground must have
cracked open about a foot some x^lace near where they were
received. They were all in good spirits.
"We are in camp now, and have been since last Monday,
18th. We have a fast set of boys. They are going all the
time. Their conversation would not be considered strictly ac-
cording to rule in first-class society. It is not necessary to give
you a sample. You may imagine anything. They take exer-
cise in different ways, wrestling and scuffling in every shape,
running foot races, playing marbles, etc. We were the second
Company in camp and there are five companies in now and
several others ready. Mr. Gregg is here as Capt. of a company
from this County.
"There are seven men standing within reach of me as I
write and talking like as many geese, and it takes a man
that can mind his own business to write anything, and if this
is not verv well connected vou will have to look over it.
206 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
"We will be mustered in tomorrow, and get our clothes.
We may not be through before Monday. The mustering wiU
be done by our second Lieutenant. He is away getting his
commission now, and after that we have to be mustered in
by a regular officer. We will draw our clothes after the first
muster, and our money after the second, which may not be
for two weeks yet.
"I will try and describe our quarters. They are plank
houses 50 bv 18 ft. There are two rows of bunks, one on
each side, three deep, the lower one within eight inches of
the ground, the next 31/2 feet above and the next 31/2 feet
above that. I have one of the upper bimks. There a]'e
forty-eight bunks, each one holds two men, and opposite each
bunk there is an air hole with a slide to shut it up at night,
about a foot square. We have a window in each end and a
door on each side of the window, which takes up the balance
of the room not occupied with the ends of the bunks.
' ' Our kitchen is at the back end of the barracks and about
10x12 feet. We have six cooks appointed. They have a
trench dug on each side of and extending nearly to the end
of the table (which stands out doors) about two feet wide
and one foot deep, where they do the cooking.
"We have a hole about four feet square and three feet
deep to throw our slop in. I have described everything as
minutely as possible, supposing that yovi would like to know
the small as well as the great things belonging to camp life.
"It is now twenty-five minutes past 11 o'clock — the men
are all snoring around me, and I will be in about ten minutes.
' ' Yours,
"WlLL.^^
"Camp Burxside, August 27, 1862.
"Dear Wife: We have got to drilling now and time does
not drag as heavily as heretofore.
"The Sharp boys got in today and will not start out till
tomorrow or next day, but I may be detailed for some duty
tomorrow, so will write a little to-night.
"We have drawn our full rig: 2 coats, 2 pair socks, 1 pair
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 207
pants, 1 hat, 1 eajj, 2 pair drawers. We liave to draw our
overcoats yet, and one blanket. We have drawn one.
"There are now nine companies in the barracks. Tlie
others Avill be in this week. The Right will then be organized
and may possibly leave the next week for St. Louis or we may
stay here to drill.
"The above was written last night. I am detailed as
Sergeant of the Guard (my first). I would write more, but
am called to duty and must go.
"Yours as ever,
"WlLL.^^
"Camp Burnside, September 3, 1862.
' ' Dear Wife : I promised to write to you every time that I
found anything new, and we had something grand yesterday.
The report got out last w^eek that we were to leave today,
and the people here gave us a farewell dinner yesterday, the
best I ever saw. The regiment is full or full enough to go.
' ' The crowd yesterday was inmiense, about 8,000 or 10,000.
When going through the crowd you would occasionally meet
a soldier. After dinner we had dress parade for their benefit,
when there was a Bible presented to the Right by the children
of Des Moines, and received by the Colonel. Everything went
off nice, grandiloquently beautiful. Gov. Kirkwood was intro-
duced to each of the commissioned officers personally. The
Legislature is to be convened today. We are expecting march-
ing orders every day, but have not received them yet. AVe
expect to be mustered tomorrow.
"Yours,
"Wm. M. Little. '^
"Camp Burnside, September 6, 1862.
"Dear Nax & Minnie: I wrote you a day or tAvo ago,
and had just finished it about an hour when Jim and company
came in. We drew one month's wages yesterday, so I will
inclose some money. We did not get as much money as we
expected, consequently can't send as much as I would like
to, but half a loaf is better than no bread.
"I must now go on dress parade. I wish you could see
us. It looks quite grand to one that never saw the like, but
I can't describe it here.
"Yours,
*'WlLL.'^
208 PAST AND PKESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
if
"Camp Burn side, September 16, 1862.
'My Dear Wife: I have had my first war experience in
Iowa. On last Sabbath night there were twelve men detailed
from Company D to go out and take some Secesh prist)ners
that were running at large about AVinterset. We took the
Coach on Sabbath evening after dark, and traveled all night
and arrested seven men in the neighborhood of Winterset,
and returned last night about dark. We traveled thirty-five
miles over twice and took seven prisoners, all in twenty-four
hours.
"On our way the coach was turned over with fourteen
men in it. One of them being nearly killed (Perry Tullis,
of our company). He had three ribs broken and his shoul-
der crushed by jumping from the coach and it falling on
him. I was in the coach, and when it started I just thought it
might go, and go it did, burying me in a conglomerated mass of
human beings, guns, bayonets and all the paraphernalia of
war, but amidst all this I held on to my gun, overcoat, hav-
ersack, canteen and everything else, with two men and their
equipment all on top of me. I lay without gruml)ling until
they crawled out at the top of the coach, and then I crawled
too. There was no swearing done, as they thought they
could not do it justice.
"Yours,
"Will."
"Camp Burxside, September 17, '62.
"Dearest: As John Dowell goes home tomorrow, J will
write a few lines, though 1 wrote vou vesterdav. We are
going to di'aw our bounty tomorrow, and I will send you
some money. We expect to leave here on Friday next, and
if such is the case I will not write any more from here, and
you need not write until you hear from me. I did expect to
go home before we left here, but I suppose it can't be did.
"Yours,
"WlLL.^^
"Camp Burnside, September 19, 1862.
"Dear Wife: I commenced to write on the 17th but was
detailed as Sergeant of the Guard, consequently could nf)t
finish.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 209
' ' We have marching orders, and have to go next Tuesday,
(this is Sabbath) at 7 o'clock, we go to Benton Barracks.
Five companies started this morning on foot, two others start
tomorrow, two on Tuesday morning and one on Wednesday
morning. The last hve go on stages. The captains cast lots
to see who should ride, and the lot fell upon Jonah to go
in the stage. The five companies left this morning and one
company of the Thirty-ninth Regiment was in their bar-
racks before breakfast, and there are two more companies
coming now.
"September 23. We have everything packed and ready to
start, waiting for the stage and while we are waiting 1 will
write a little more. I have had a very sore mouth, but it
is getting better. I think if I can only keep from lying
for about a week it will be well. There are two stage loads
just starting and the boys are cheering with all their mights.
They have a fiddle and are playing it. They pitched on to
me, and I had to stop writing and dance for them.
"Here comes the stage for Company D, the first load
is rolling out. I have to take command of the fourth load.
Most of the boys want to go with me, but the}^ have to be
mixed up, so that all the rough ones will not be together.
All is confusion and every one is talking, singing, playing the
fiddle and fife, and dancing and anything to make a noise.
What one does not do the other does, so that it is a perfect
Babel."
FAREWELL TO CAMP BURXSIDE
"Keokuk, Iowa, September 26, 1862.
"I write you from a new camp. We started from Camp
Burnside on Wednesday morning, (we did not get started as
soon as we expected by one day), on the stage, and got to
Oskaloose that night about 2 o'clock. We had sixteen men
and the driver on the stage, (nine inside, two on the hind
foot, one in front and four on top.) We were cheered at
almost everv house, and we cheered in return. There were
two instances Avhere the old man and his wife were out cut-
ting corn, and as we passed they cheered most lustily. It
looked very much like the days of '76.
"The only other incident I will mention was our entrance
into Pella. Bella is a town of about the size of Oskaloose,
(I compare it to the latter, as you are acquainted there), but
210 Pi^ST AXU PRP]SEXT OF WAYNE COUNTY
according to my notion it is the nicest town I have seen
in the west. The inhabitants are i^rincipally German. AVe
came in on the west side of the town, and there was fully a
mile that we were cheered, so that we could not hear our
nearest neighbor speak, without having our heads close to-
gether. It was a continual yell about fifteen minutes. We
stopped there and got our suppers, as it was about dark. I
slept most of the time from Pella to Oskaloose. Got our
breakfast there and started for Eddyville; boarded the cars
there and arrived at Keokuk last night about dark, and are
now quartered at the Keokuk High school house. There
are four hundred soldiers in it now, and room for two hun-
dred more. There are three Rights here now; two in bar-
racks and one-half of ours in tents, the other half here or
will be tonight. One of the comjDanies are not in yet. It
is rej)orted in camp that the Colonel had no orders to bring
us here or take us to St. Louis either, and is doing it on
his own responsibility^ but he does not want to go into
Minnesota to freeze this winter. He says he will go to St.
Louis and from there to Sj)ringfield. He saj^s he will have
us in a place hotter than h — 11 before fifteen days, (verbatim
report), but there is very little prospect of getting into the
field as soon as that. Some think we will go to Kentucky,
but a soldier's path is not very straight, and we don't know
but we will have to go to Washington.
''The last company has just come into this room, a per-
son can't write much where there is a hundred men on the
third floor of a large house in a tight room and everybody
saying something.
"Night. The Colonel has got a despatch to await fur-
ther orders, and he says he will keep us here till h — 11
freezes over. A slight change since morning.
"Later. We have orders to be ready to march in one
hour's notice. The boat is lying at the wharf waiting for us.
"Yours,
"Will.''
on board the imetropolitan
"Sabbath, September 28, 1862.
"We are floating down the river, and at the present time,
(10 o'clock) we are about one hundred miles below Keokuk.
We started last evening about 4 o'clock, and ran on a sand
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 211
bar about midnig-ht, and did not get off till about 8 o'clock
this morning.
"The Right is all on board, but not all on the boat. We
have two barges in tow, one on each side, and each of them
has two com2:)anies. The weather is warm, but pleasant.
There are fourteen men within eight feet of me on all sides.
Our place is on the barge on the Missouri side. I have got
on the cabin deck, and while I write the others are talking
on all subjects. One squad is talking on religion, but their
audience is small. Another is debating the cause and effects
of war, and how soon it will probably end. Another is giv-
ing their experience and observation around the lewd houses
in Keokuk, and Des Moines. I am taking the items with
borrowed paper and ink.
''Here we go within a stone's throw of the Missouri
shore, and the boys are shooting at a lot of swans. Stop
your noise, the old boy could not write with such a racket.
The people on shore cheer us, as we pass and are- cheered in
return."
"ScHOPiLiA Barracks, September 29, '62.
*'I am not in a very good humor. We came to St. Louis
last night about 10 o'clock and lay on the boat till morning.
I had to lie on the naked boards on the bow of the boat ; Joe
Sharp shared my bunk in the open air. This morning all
was confusion on board. We did not know where we were
going and all were anxious to know. When one thousand
men are all anxious about anything there is considerable
confusion. We finally received marching orders and put on
our loads, amounting to about sixty pounds, and marched
out on the wharf, and the Colonel kept us standing there for
about an hour and a half. We then marched about two to
our present home. AVe then had to stand another hour or
two until final arrangements were made and the officers
could get a drink. We finally got in and before we could get
our quarters cleaned had to go on dress parade. We had to
stand anotlrer hour, and then after all this, we came in and
some of the boys had not taken care of their rations and
did not have enough for supper, so there has been a con-
tinual growl all day. I can stand my own burden and duty
very well, but to hear so much grumbling is more than I
can stand, without getting out of humor myself.
212 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
' ' We are in the heart of the city, and in a nice comfortable
place, though it is rather small. There is some talk of us
having to stay here as Provost Guard, for a time at least.
We have these orders, but the Cohmel is trying to have them
changed. Some think we will go to Rolla, and some to Ken-
tucky, but I don't think — I have no right to think.
"I have not been out in the city yet, and don't expect to
see much of it, as we are not allowed to go out, but we
can't complain as our officers are in the same fix. This
will go rather hard with the officers, as they have not been
accustomed to it, but the privates have not been allowed to
cross the lines without a pass. They frequently run past
the guards and go where they please, but that game is played
out now, and it is well enough, because some of them have
been out too often now.
"It is now after taps, and, contrary to orders, Company
I is having a jollification, but the Colonel is not here. I am
writing on my bunk.
"When we left Keokuk it was reported that the rebels
had a masked batterv about the mouth of the Missouri
river, and there was considerable growling done because we
had come on board without ammunition, but we came to
within about a mile of the river before we heard anything
from the battery, then we came down opposite the mouth of
the river. Still there was no firing, and none afterwards.
"The bo3^s are all or nearly all in usual health and will
be all right, as to their grumbling, b}^ tomorrow."
"ScHOFiELD Barracks, St. Louis, October 5, 1862.
"Our company was out as Provost Guard on last Thurs-
day night, and our guide took us to nearly all the places of
amusements and other places, to arrest any of the soldiers
or officers who were out without a pass.
"On last Sa]>l)ath Joe Sharp and George and I started to
go to church, l)ut when we got within about two blocks of
the church we were arrested by Provost Guard and taken
to headquarters. (We had no pass.) A night or two before
I had arrested the lieutenant, who was in command of the
Guard, and I'eleased him. He knew me when I came up
and he did the necessary amount of lying to release us and
then we went to church and heard a sermon from a
Mr. Trusday, of Allegheny City, Pennsylvania."
MERCHANTS' HOTEL, ALLERTON
STREET SCENE IN ALLERTON
THE Y^''- "^'^-v
PUBL'
TiLDeiM rot^tMOAT
IONS
J
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 215
"Pilot Knob, Missouri, October 10, 1862.
"We are down south in Dixie, and a middling hard
place it is, too. We left St. Louis at 12 o'clock on Monday
night, and arrived here at 9 o'clock Tuesday morning, then
we had to stay at the station until the Colonel came and
staked out the camp, and went to the village and got drunk,
and we did not get into camp until night, and when we did
get in, our tents were not here, so we had to lie around m
the rain until everything was thoroughly wet, except what
was in our knapsacks. It commenced raining at 5 o'clock
and has rained continually up to the present time, (9 o'clock
Thursday morning), and there is no sign of it stopping now.
I never saw as much rain fall in the same length of time. In
order to keep dry we have gone to the brush and brought
in enough to fill the tent to the depth of about a foot with
the branches.
"The order was issued last night to have ourselves in
readiness to go into action at a minute's notice, and after
the news got through the camp some of the boys were taken
suddenly sick. I can say for myself that I never slept
sounder or dreamed less.
"Pilot Knob, as far as I have seen is a pile of rock with
a few brush on it, and I should judge that its summit is
about two hundred feet above the village of that name.
There are three other hills nearly as high close by. Our
camp is about a mile from the village up the creek on the
same ground occupied by Indiana troops last winter, and
about one and one-half miles from Ironton. I would not
give a good farm in Wayne county for all the land I have
seen since we left the Mississippi. The soil is about one
or two inches deep and below that is a dark red sand and
gravel.
"There is some talk of us leaving here soon, but noth-
ing certain. We are supposed to be a part of an army to
scour southern Missouri again. I am writing under difficulties
— sitting on my knapsack, which raises me about four inches
from the ground, and have a tin plate turned upside down
on my knee as a desk and have to hold the pan while I write. ' '
Arcadia, Missouri, October 12, 1862.
'We have moved our camp about two miles to the fort
or near the fort here. The fort has four or five cannon.
if
21b PAST AND PKESExVT OF WAYNE COUNTY
There are three regiments here now, and we are expecting
two more in a day or two. One thing I forgot to tell you
about in my last letter. There was a Missouri regiment
camped on the bottom near the creek, and the rains
descended, and the floods came and beat upon that camp,
and it fell and great was the fall of it, as there were seven
men drowned and most of their tents and equipments were
washed away in the flood.
"I also said that Pilot Knob was 200 feet high, but I
have been up on it since, and it is not less than 500 feet
high and runs up to a point on all sides. The country is
just one hill after another as far as the eye can reach from
the top of the Knob, and the only farming done here is in
the valleys, which are from 20 to 60 rods wide. The land
is very poor and very little of it.
"I talked with the officer of the Picket Guard. He was
a Missouri captain. He said he had had some experience
with Iowa boys in fighting, and he said d — n the man that
beats them. I had to stop writing to go out for inspection.
"There are different rumors about our marching orders,
but none are reliable."
''Camp Patterson, Missouri, October 18, 1862.
"Since writing you we have marched thirty-five miles
through the roughest part of God's creation, and southeast
or nearly a southern direction, to a place called Patterson,
in Wayne county, Missouri, but it does not resemble Wayne
county, Iowa, very much. A person could walk for ten
miles and not touch the ground, walking on rock all the
way, and some places there is no earth within, well, I don't
know how far it is down to the soil, but it is awav down
further than I cared about going. In traveling the thirty-
five miles we passed about twelve houses, and a little patch
of corn at each, say two or three acres, and from that up to
ten acres. There is no use to describe the country, for two
men could not do it justice.
"We are down here under command of a , I don't
know what to call him, but he is a Missourian, and it is
reported that he does not care which side whips. He has
issued orders that if a soldier takes a chicken from a rebel
he is to be shot. If he is in command long some of the
boys will make pork out of him, because dead hog makes
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 217
pork, and he will be numbered among tliem before two
days if some of the boys get a good chance. The man I
speak of is Colonel Boyd, of one of the Missouri Rights."
"Patterson, Missouri, October 22, 1862.
"Since we came here we have a dailv mail established
from here to Pilot Knob, so we can get our mail regularly
while we stay here.
"The Colonel received orders yesterday to build winter
quarters and put up for the winter. He made use of some
high-toned profanity about it, as he did not like it. In fact,
none of the Right likes it, but have to stand it.
"Our Right has been reasonably healthy until within the
past week, but the measles and mumps are making some
places vacant. One of the boys in Company H had the
measles and had got (as he thought) over it, but he went
out on guard yesterday morning and stood till 1 o'clock yes-
terday — when he took sick, and died this morning at 5
o'clock, which makes the third death in the Right in the
last week.
"I have not taken such a good laugh in a long time as
I did this morning. There is one of Comj^any D's boys
called Jake Pyrshick (his proper name is Henry Osborn).
He has not been feeling well for a day or two, and he came
to our tent this morning as sober as a judge, pulled aside
the door and looking in said, 'I believe the buzzards have
been playing seven up for me all morning, but I guess I
will fool them.' The buzzards were flvins; around about
five hundred strong over two dead mules.
"Our provisions are such as a man with good teeth can
eat. Our bread is crackers, about four inches square, and
as hard as a rock. Some of them have to be broken with
a hatchet, and soaked in water over night to make them
soft enough to eat, then we have fresh beef, pickled pork
and bacon, beans, rice, hominy, coffee, sugar and all the fresh
pork we can jayhawk without being found out. The Chap-
lain preached in the morning, after which Colonel gave us a
little talk, and closed by saying, ' Trust in God and keep your
powTler dry,' and in the evening on dress parade, SAvore like
a Guerilla. The boys like the Colonel better as they get
better acquainted with him and the service."
21« PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
"Pattekson^ Missouri, October 27, 1862.
"We have just received marcliiug orders for tomorrow
morning at 9 o'clock — the order says for us to be in readi-
ness to start, so we may go and may not. Such is military
life. I don't think we should be called out now on account
of sickness in camp. Only about one-half of the Right can
go. There are two of our men left in Iowa, and two in St.
Louis, fourteen in Arcadia and if we leave in the morning
will have to leave about twenty more here. Out of ninety-
nine men we will have about fifty fit to march. Measles and
mumps is the only cause.
"There are three companies of the Twenty-third gone
now down in the southern part of the state to drive out a
squad of rebels encamped in the swamps, supposed to be about
six hundred strong. The Colonel is at St. Louis. The
Lieutenant Colonel is out with the detachment and the
Major is in command of the camp.
"The weather is quite cold now. On the 25th we had
about an inch of snow. The next day it melted away, and
last night it froze about two inches deep and today melted
again.
"We sleep comfortably, everything considered. Our
beds consist of boards laid on the ground, with a blanket over
them. AVe put on our overcoats, and have three blankets
to put over us. We have no fire in our tent, though a stove
would be very acceptable.
"The Democrats, as a usual thing, don't appear to like
the negroes, but the strongest democrat in the Right (Lieu-
tenant W^alker of Company B) stole the first nigger that
was brought in to the Rig'lit, and has him for his cook.
There are now about twenty-five or thirty of tlie colored
gentlemen in our camp.'
11
"Patterson, Missouri, October 29, 1862.
"Just as I expected — we are here yet. In my last we
had orders to be ready to march at 9 o'clock in the morning.
Well, by 9 o'clock we were drawn up in line of battle about
one-fourth of a mile from camp, with all our baggage loaded
and ready to start. After sitting around till about 12
o'clock. Colonel Boyd rode out to the Major, who was in
command, and ordered inspection. The Major gave him a
little of his mind, as much as he could to a superior officer.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 219
He told him that we came out to march and not for inspec-
tion, but Boyd expressed his satisfaction with our appear-
ance.
"After insijection he gave the command, 'Commissioned
officers to the front and center march,' and when they were
drawn up in Hue and gave the usual salutation he made them
a speech and such a speech — one sentence is enough to give
an idea of the whole, 'I have owned more niggers than any
G — d d — d southerner, and have freed them all, and they
may go to h — 1, and 1 don't care a d — n for them.' His
whole speech was comj^osed entirely of such expressions.
One oath to about every ten words was about his average.
After listening till he was through we were ordered back
to our old camp.
"One of Company A died last night and the Right are
preparing for a military funeral. The cause of death was
measles and cold. Funeral procession, music in front, drums
muffled, playing the tune, 'Long, Long Ago,' pall bearers,
firing squad of eight and Corporal with arms, different com-
panies commanded by the Orderly Sergeant, Second Lieu-
tenant, First Lieutenant, Captains, Major and officer of the
day, in order named. It is a solemn sight, and I may say
it is the only thing that affects the whole regiment at once
with anything like solemnity, because preaching will not
do it.
"The principal productions of this country are black
haws, persimmons and wild grapes, the latter about the size
of cherries; sweet potatoes grow very large. Wheat is well
filled, but does not yield largely.
"I am writing on the top of a trunk with my knees on
the gTound, and a sick man in a bed close by reading a letter
from his mother, just received.
"Postage stamps are hard to get. Our Sutler brought
$50.00 worth from St. Louis, and did not have any after he
had been here an hour — all sold."
"Pattp.rson, Missouri, November 7, 1862.
"Last Monday about 2 o'clock five companies of the
Twenty-third were ordered to be ready to march in an hour
with three days' rations in our haversacks, and Company D
was one of them. We went to Dallas, the county seat of
Bollinger county, and about fifty miles east of here, to
220 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
drive out a lot of rebels that were congregated there. (I
want to say right here that I was not killed.) We foraged
for everything the country afforded, chickens, turkeys, geese,
horses, mules, wagons, and one man of our company jay-
hawked a grindstone and carried it some miles, but it got too
heavy. We were under command of Colonel Jackson, of
the Missouri State Militia, with 600 cavalry, and the in-
fantrv could travel faster than the cavalrv.
"No. 9. The Colonel is a cowardly jack, and if we had
had a commander of the right stamp we might have had
some fun. (I mean Colonel Jackson.) We had to go into
camp for the night about fifteen miles from Dallas, and
when we got in the next morning the herd had flowTi. We got
to the town Wednesday noon in time to see some of their
men climbing the hill about a half mile distant, and Com-
panies F and D were sent out together. We brought in six
prisoners and Colonel Jackson turned them loose again. Two
of them had been in the southern army.
"That night the militia cavalry got scared at a man and
dog that crossed the road and ran into the brush. The cav-
alry ran into town, leaving their revolvers, hats, horses and
everything and reported to Colonel Jackson. He ordered out
three companies of infantry, among them Company D. We
went out and found the arms belonging to the pickets but
nothing else. We came back to camp disgusted. We got in
about 9 o'clock and the Major ordered, 'Break ranks and
give a yell,' which was done with a will.
"The militia turned out in force in line of battle and
the wonder is that they did not shoot, but I expect they .
They said we were acting just like we were going on a
coon hunt. I had to stop writing to go out and warm,
and lost my place at the table, so have to finish writing on
the back of a book.
"Dallas is about as large as .Corydon, but we did not
find a person in town. When we left the next morning, or
just before we left, by some unaccountal^le accident the
house belonging to the rebel. Colonel Jeffries, took fire. The
Major remained a short time after the regiment marched,
and when he left the fire had spread to all the other houses,
except the courthouse. On the way back we had plenty to
eat, and nice dry rails to cook it with."
BIRD'S-EYE ^aEW OF HUMESTON
HIGH SCHOOL, HUMESTON
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 221
"Patterson, Missouri, November 11, 1862.
"We have not received our pay yet, but expect it every
day. We have been expecting marching orders for some
days. It is raining now quite hard, but we have a tent
with a good floor in it. We also have good beds, four posts
drove in the ground, strips nailed on tliem and three boards
laid on tliem lengthwise, then we double one blanket and
lay it on the boards, climb in and cover up with three
blankets. The boards are soft, very soft, much softer than
Iowa lumber, but the Missourians call them hard pine.
"It is reported that Colonel Jackson, the commander of
the expedition to Dallas, has been arrested for cowardice,
and the Twentv-third savs 'Amen.'
"There is nothing pleasant in straying away from every-
thing a man holds dear, and living the kind of life we have
to live when we don't think w^e are doing good for our coun-
try or anything else. Lying idly in camp will not put down
the rebellion. Why don't they give us something to do, put
down the rebellion and go home ? ' '
"Patterson, Missouri, November 17, 1862.
"I am out of postage stamps, and can't send a letter
without franking it with the name of some commissioned
officer. You will have to pay the postage on my letters
hereafter, because I can't get stamps.
"We are still at Patterson, and have no idea when we
will leave. We have camp rumors of all kinds about march-
ing orders, but nothing reliable. Nothing is occuring in
camp worthy of note."
U'
"Patterson, Missouri, November 18, 1862.
'We are having a very heavy rain just now. Everybody
is in their tents, and vou -can sit here and listen to the rain
and hear almost any kind of noise that can be made by men.
"We have a six-gun battery here now. They are mostly
Germans, I think from St. Louis. I don't know anything
about their fighting, but they are splendid musicians and
continually singing."
"Patterson, Missouri, November 21, 1862.
"General Davidson has come into camp since dark, and
one of the bands is serenading him. I can't write with such
Vol. 1—13
222 PAST AKD PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
good music ringing in my ears, so I will go down to head-
quarters and hear it.
"Nov. 22. I had to stop Avriting to go out on inspection
this morning, and our company had quite a compliment from
Colonel Schreck, the inspector. He said they were the best
drilled and the cleanest company in the Right, and the boys
feel flattered, as it is not always the case with them.
"We have the same routine of duty every day, and as a
consequence writing a decent letter would be like the Israel-
ites in Egypt making bricks without straw."
"Patterson, Missouri, November 25, 1862.
"We have to do picket duty now. Our company were
all out yesterday, and were relieved this A. M. General
Davidson has moved his headquarters here from St. Louis
and we think that he wants to show himself and his author-
ity. He is quite foppish and is like a little Dutch Jew. The
boys don't like him. They think there is nothing in him but
show, and lying around camp so long with nothing to do
except guard and drill becomes monotonous and predisposes
growling and dissatisfaction with everything."
"Patterson, Missouri, November 30, 1862.
"This is Sabbath day. The company are nearly all on
picket — forty-eight men. I was left to look after our camp,
and see that everything was kept straight. ,
"Colonel Dewey died this morning. He had not been sick
more than about four days. The cause was typhoid fever
with erysipelas, the doctors say, but the boys think that all
three do not know as much as one ought to know.
"The boys got to like the Colonel very well as a comman-
der, but his death will make quite a change in the regiment.
They are making preparations to send him home tomorrow.
Lieutenant Colonel Kinsman will take command now, and
the boys all love him. His shoulder straps are not so heavy
but that he can wear them without hurting him. He has a
kind word for any of the boys whenever or wherever he
meets them. I suppose he will be commissioned as a
Colonel, and the Major as a Lieutenant Colonel, and there
will be a contest for the Majorship. The field officers will
be more satisfactory to the boys of the Right than it has been.
PAST AXD PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 223
"We will soon be ready to march now, as we have about
got our camjj fixed up so as to be comfortable for winter. ' '
"Patterson, Missouri, December 8, '62.
"On the 2nd inst. 1 was attacked with what the surgeon
says was lung fever. ' Was quite sick for three or four days.
I am able to be up now but very weak. The Colonel was at
St. Louis. I appropriated his bunk and brought it to our
tent. It is much better than ours and fared very well, better
than most of the sick. I did not go to the hospital, but was
nursed by the company.
"All the troops are to leave here tomorrow, except the
Twenty-third Iowa, First Nebraska. The Colonel is trying
to get orders for us to go, too. We are badly disgusted with
having to lie around so long, and doing nothing. I get out
of humor when I undertake to say anything about it, but we
will have to grin and bear it and wait the orders of our
superiors. I suppose we will get something to do some time."
"Patterson, Missouri, December 11, 1862.
"I still continue better, and am able for duty, though
weak. Joe Sharp was sent to the hospital at Pilot Knob.
The Colonel was not here when he started, and the Colonel
has gone after him and swears he is going to have his men
all together.
"Company D is on picket today. The sick and conva-
lescent remain in camp."
"Patterson, Missouri, December 14, 1862.
"This Sal)])ath day and it has been raining for two or three
days. At the present it is pouring. The streams are full and
everything looks dreary. The weather is warm here, though
I understand the Mississippi is frozen over in Iowa.
"The health of the Right is better than it has been for
some time. The Right has had twenty deaths since we started,
beside the Colonel — eighteen died from the effects of measles
— one from mumi3S and one of typhoid fever."
"Patterson, Missouri, December 19, 1862.
"The railroad track is torn up between here and St. Louis
by the recent rains, and we have had no news for some days.
We have marching orders this morning. This place is to be
224 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
vacated tomorrow, unless the orders are couutermanded. The
postage stamps you sent me were received so that I can write
to my friends."
''Van Buren, Carter County, Missouri, December 25, 1862.
"If I were at home this morning 1 would claim a Christmas
gift. We left Patterson on the 20th inst. The camp is about
fifty miles southwest of Patterson. We arrived here last night
after a march of five days, one of which rained all day.
"A part of the regiments here are the Eighth and Eigh-
teenth Indiana, Twenty-fourth and Twenty-fifth Missouri,
First Nebraska, Eleventh Wisconsin, Thirty-third Illinois
and Twenty-third Iowa, with two or three cavalry regiments
and three or four companies.
"When we came in yesterday they were having a little
skirmish al)Out two and one-half miles from here with a lot
of rebels that had run in and captured one of our forage trains,
killing two men belonging to the train.
"There is a good deal of dissatisfaction in the army about
the way the war is carried on. There appears to be not enough
energy in conducting it, and the armies are all lying idle.
"We have the news of Burnside's defeat at Fredericks-
burgh. '■'
"Van Buren, Missouri, December 31, 1862.
"We have been here just one week, and have orders to ])e
ready to march in the morning at 8 o'clock, but we are going
across the river. (We are camped on the Current river.)
We will celebrate the New Year by crossing the river.
"We have nine rights of infantry, two of cavalry and four
batteries. We are now among the rebels, as there is not a
Union man in all this country, and the rebels and bush-
whackers are roving in l)ands from twenty-five to one hundred
and fifty on horseback, and will attack our foraging trains
whenever they can get them out in small squads.
"We were mustered today for pay, but have not got our
monev vet."
Camp Chase, near Van Buren, Missouri, January 7, 1863.
'We moved here on new j^ear's day, or near here, but we
have moved camp since to get a more favorable position.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 225
"The health of the army is good, the weather is warm
during the day, but it was cold enough last night to make ice
about a quarter of an inch thick.
"I have had to stop writing to make out discharges for
Jos. T. Sharjj and Daniel G. Slavens.
' ' There was one of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry shot from
the brush this morning with buckshot from a bushwhacker.
His four comrades rushed into camp and left him. Six of
the Twenty-third boys came along a short time after and
brought him into camp.
? >
"Alton, Missouri, January 22, 1863.
"We left Camp Chase on the 14th inst., leaving several of
the bovs there. The first dav out it rained all dav and the first
night out it snowed about 5 inches deep, and in the evening
Col. Boyd issued the following order: 'First Brigade, second
division will not move a d — d foot tomorrow,' so we did not
march on the 15th. On the 16th we marched 12 miles and
camped near a spring that runs out of a rock about 20 feet
from the base of a perpendicular bank, strong enough to turn
a mill that is built inunediately under it.
' ' The scenery was magnificent, beautiful, grand. The giant
hills covered with beautiful .young jack-oaks with the under-
growth so thick that a dog could not run through it. Jan. 17,
we marched probably 12 miles to Eleven Point river, got there
about three o'clock, river too deep to wade so bridged it with
mules and wagons ; crossed the First Nebraska, drowned three
mules and nearly drowned three more beside three men and a
horse. The wagons were then taken out and we made a foot
bridge across some distance below by laying poles from one big
rock to another over the swiftest running stream I ever saw.
Our Col. Kinsman was the foremost man in putting across the
poles — in the water to his waist. The bridge consisted, when
completed, of three poles side by side and about 100 yards
long.
"The next morning we started to cross the river and the
water had frozen on the logs, making them rather too slippery,
to pass a Right over in safety, but over we went, and all safe
except Jos. Cavender of our Company, who fell off and was
drowned. We never saw him afterwards. One man of Co.
G fell in, but got out again with a good ducking. Cavender
was a good soldier, always ready for duty and never com-
226 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
plaining. The Col. and four others hunted for him for a half
day, but could not find him.
"We marched to this place on the same day, (about 14
miles), and found a small town of about a dozen houses, and
a very fair brick courthouse. Alton is the county-seat of
Oregon County, and about twelve miles from the Arkansas
line. Jan. 23. We have had grand review today."
"West Plaixs, Missouri, Jan. 31, 1863.
"Since writing 3^ou last we have marched about 40 miles.
We are now about 90 miles south of Rolla and close to Arkan-
sas line. We are camped on a high hill overlooking the village.
The 3rd Iowa Cavalry and 21st and 22d Infty. joined us here
today. The w^eather is warm ; 1 saw two grasshoppers today.
"Three of our boys went out wdth a forage train last Sab-
bath and deserted. Our provisions are running short now.
We have subsisted now for tw^o days on fresh meat without
salt, but we expect crackers tomorrow. We have been eating
venison or that is what the bovs call it. The animals have wool
on their backs, but we are not allowed to kill sheep. As far
as we can see there is no organized enemv in this countrA%
except the Guerillas. They meet at night, do some mischief
and disband and go home in the morning, and if we come
around the next day every fellow has his pass or safeguard,
and we dare not touch any of his property.
? ?
U'
"West Plains, Missouri, Feb. 6, 1863.
'We have about eight inches of snow this morning, or
had yesterday, but it is going off today.
"The paymaster is here, but he has not called on us yet.
"Col. Kinsman is having some difficulty with General
Davidson, and the Col. is under arrest for disobedience of
orders. Davidson ordered him to take two companies and go
after ammunition. The Col. refused, as he thought it was the
intention to degrade him by gi^^ng him the command of a
captain. The Right are indignant and would force him from
the General, if they had the least encouragement from the
Cob"
"Eminence, Mo., Feb. 16, 1863.
"Since writing last we have marched about 65 miles, and
are back to within about 60 miles from Rolla and the same
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 22
zz^
from Pilot Knob, and will likely leave tomorrow for parts
unknown. I have been in the service now for six months and
have never seen one rebel in arms, but I saw a dead one yes-
terday, shot by one of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry. We were paid
off yesterday.
"On the night of the 14th I was under the ground about
a mile a^id a half. Seven of us ran the guards after nine
o'clock at night after marching all day. The cave was full
of curiosities to us. Stalactites of all imaginable shapes and
sizes from the thickness of a straw to seven feet in diameter.
"Feb. 24th. This is a little old, but we have no mail so I
just carry it along and add to it as the spirit moves me. We
are camped now within 8 miles of Pilot Knob and it makes
me feel like I was getting towards home.
"We have seen the elephant in a way. Have traveled
about 1,000 miles, or it appears so to us, over gravel and rock,
through snow, rain, sleet and mud; slept on boards, snow,
mud, hay, cornstalks and leaves; have lived on full rations,
two-thirds rations, half and quarter rations and sometimes
nothing but fresh pork without salt, and that we had to jay-
hawk. We have run the rebels out of the southeast Missouri,
or at least they are out.
"We left West Plains on the 8th and laid up three days
on the wa,v, two at Thomasville and one at Eminence. Our
Chaplain has gone home on leave of absence, but it does not
make much difference. He has preached twice since we came
to Patterson four months ago, and he has never been in the
quarters to talk to the men once during that time."
-3.
"Iron Mountain, Mo., March 1, 186:1
"We are camped cm the side of Iron Mountain, and it is
well named as it is nearly all iron. Our bed is on the ground
on the side of the mountain, and we have to fill up the lower
side of the tent with ore in order to find ourselves in the tent
when we wake up the next morning. Our bed is not quite as
soft as feathers, but we sleep quite well. It is nothing when
one gets used to it.
"I understand that the Knights of the Golden Circle are
using their influence to have the men desert, but their foul
mouthed treason has not affected the army of the southeast
Missouri very much yet. Col. Kinsman went to St. Louis this
morning to stand his ti'ial for disobedience of orders. Some
228 PAST AND PKESEM v¥ WAYNE l tJ UN TY
L't the RtL'LiT. >VL'Ut along as witnesses. Kinsman is a niodfl
CL'luntd. and the men lilve him and wunhl right fur him at the
di'op of a hat. and General Davidson kin'ws it. and dues not
like him fur it. It is reported that the CoL told Davidson
that be was a coward. I have t"ld bigger lies than that many
a time and thought nothins: of it. If he was n^t a General I
woiild think he was a ouward, but as be is I d^ai't knuw. A
soldier must not speak disrespectfully of bis sujiei iui uCicers.
''Ikun AIuUXTaix. Ali->''uri. March ^. I>(io.
'*We ha^"e marching orders fur f-'murruw. but where we
don't kn^'W. The health of tlie Right is good genfrally."
"St. Genevieve. ^.L,.. March li:. 1^63.
**A\'e started as ordered on Mondav mornint>; the 9th. The
distance here is 40 miles and we were on the road nearly three
days, arriving here yesterday about 3 o'clock all in goud shape.
••There was a little side show at Iron M<>tmtain that I
forsfot ti:' tell von a]x>ut. The bovs of the 22d Ii'^va drew s<.me
beef that was very poor, so poor they would nut eat it. The
boys took it t- > the t"}' of the nioimtain and buried it with the
honors of war. accordins: to resnlar militarv stvle, tirins,' three
volleys over the gri'ave, and after the gi*ave was closed one of
tbe boys got on a stump and preached a fimeral sennon. when
they marched back to cami3 with due solemnity.
"There are six or seven Rights here umw."
"Os BoAED THE Chautiau. March 15. 1S63.
•*We staved at St. < ;> y^wieve alM.iit two davs. and embarked
on this bi'at for Xew Mu'lrirl. Missouri. AVe embarked yes-
terday mi-rning. and came to Cape Girardeau, where we
stopfjed and jjiit "tr" a battery. T\'e landed at Cairo about dark.
My hat blew oft* into the river, as we came down, and I got
anotber at Cairo.
"We left Cairo at 2 o'clock this morains: and are now iust
turning out from taking on wood just l^elow Island Xu. lU.
and within 8 or 9 miles of our destination.
"3 o'clock P. M. AVe have landed at Xew Madrid, pitched
our tents, eat «;'Ur dinners and been out tu examine the breast-
works that Gen. Poi)e captured frc-m the rebels about eleven
months aaro. The works are vei'v strong:. There has been
12 snms moimted on them, but bv order of Jeft* C. Davis the
PA.ST AND PRESEM UF WAYNE (JUUNTY 229
magazine with three tons of powder was blown up. blowing
one 64 pound cannon into the river a distance of some ten or
iifteen rods and sj^iking all the others except three.
"The country is perfectly level. Oft* to the west about a
mile, a mile and a half or two miles, stands the house, the
portico of which served Gen. Pope as a stand while he watched
the movements of the rebels, and gave orders to his own men.
The Fmit is aln-ut a mile below the tOA^-n. The weather is
waiin and tlie trees are beo^nnina: to turn sri'een."
•'Xkw ^L\DRn). ^.b>.. March 17. 1S63.
"I promised to infoiiu you of our movements. Well we
are ordered to move down the river tomorrow. I suppose
that Vicksburgh will be our destination, if so, we will not lie
idle mnr-li Innser and will have a chance to try ourselves."
"^TEAArEP. Whitp: Clott'. ^[arch 25. 1863.
"We were ordered to march on the ISth. but did not 2:et
away till the 22ud about noon. We ran down to Memphis and
tied u]i for alxuit three davs and then ran down here (Helena.
Ark.) starting yesterday at 1" o'clock and landing here at
8 o'clock last night, a distance of 90 miles. We are waiting
for orders.
"The bovs are conlined to the boat, but thev broke 2:uard
today. A citizen had a barrel of apples, which he was selling
out at ■-^.'^.nO per bushel. The boys kicked the barrel over. The
merchant <li<l not -ell any more out of the barrel, but the boys
got them all the same.
"The town is mostly under water now. The women will
stag'ger out of doors into a canoe and paddle it over to a
neighbor's and gossip a while, then get into the canoe and
paddle back."
"AiiLLiKixs Bexd. La.. Apr. 2. "63.
"We left Helena on the 26th and ran down here. We are
alxiut IS miles from Vicksburgh. There is quite an aiTay
collected here under coromand of Gen. Grant. The weather
is nice, though we had quite a stonn the night we landed here.
Our tents were blown di^wn and the rain was verv heaw.
There is no toAvn here, but the country is more than level.
The water from the Mississippi, when it breaks through the
levee, will lun awav fi'om the river instead of towards it."
230 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
Hi
"MiLLiKixs Bexd, La., Apr. 11, '63.
'Our second Lieut, has resigned and starts home tomor-
row, and John Glasgow is discharged and will go with him.
"We have received orders this morning to march tomor-
j'ow morning. We go to Richmond, about 12 or 15 miles west
of here, and a small country of little importance.
''Marshall Nelson came down with the provisions that
were shipped to Co. D through the Sanitary Commission."
"Backwoods, La., Ai)ril 18, 1863.
"We are now about 15 miles south of Riclmiond and four
miles north of Carthage. We arrived here on the 16tli and are
going in the direction of Vicksburgh, but the whole country
is covered with water or nearly so, and they are going across
the countr}^ in flat boats. We are not in sight of them, but
can hear them very distinctly. There were eight boats ran
the blockade night before last, among them some transports
loaded with provisions for the army. One of the transports
was badly damaged, but it got through. Uncle Sam is doing
quite a large business here now in the way of moving the
army.
"While at Richmond there were a few intelligent contra-
bands came to cam}), among them a free nigger. He thanks
God that he could hold up his head now. He w^as free, but
his wife was not, consequently all his children were slaves.
He wants to pilot the arnw through this country.
"We have just received news that Charleston has been
taken, and the army here is happy.
"It rained very hard last night and the mud this morning
sticks like wax. If the army was to move this morning, they
would have to move the country along with them."
"Backwoods, La., April 20, 1863.
"A¥e still occupy the same camp as when I wrote you
last, but we expect to move about the 22nd. We are likely to
be busv from this time, and I cannot write often, but will
write as soon as possible after the fight, if I am spared, and
I feel confident that I will be.
"The health of the Right is good now. There is a very
large army here, and between here and Millikins Bend, but
just how large I don't know, and if I did it would not be
prudent for me to write it from here.
UNITED EEETHREN CHUECH, SEYMOUE
BAPT18T CHUECH, SEYMOUE
THE ]-■
UBLL-
ASTOft, LENOX
,lDEN fOUNOATIONS
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 233
''Louisiana is a very flat country, and lower than the sur-
face of the water in the Mississippi river when the water is
high, so much so that there has been an embankment thrown
up along the west side of the river below Helena for a dis-
tance of three hundred miles. The embankment is about 40
feet wide at the base, and ten feet on top. It has required
an immense amount of work to make it.
"The river runs down (a person might say), a vast ridge.
Where the Union troops have cut through the levee the water
runs through, overflowing the whole country. This is the
way the Yazoo pass was made, by cutting the levee, and letting
the water from the Mississippi across into the Yazoo so that
boats could run across through the woods to the Yazoo.
"They also cut the levee at Lake Providence about ten
miles above Millikins Bend. The water covered the town of
Lake Providence up to the windows of the houses. There is
just one house in town where the water does not run up to it.
The lake of the same name is overflowing, and the water runs
back into the country down into Red River, and branches of,
from that enters the Atchafalaya river and enters the Gulf
about 100 miles west of New Orleans.
"I can't believe that this war will last much longer, the
rebel strongholds are beginning to crumble before the tri-
umphant march of the 'Yankee hirelings, Mudsills and Hes-
sians' of the north. About two or three more successful
battles for the Union troops and the thing must end. The
darkies here say that their masters once thought that the
north could not even annov them, but now thev sav that if
the Yankees can't whip them, they can starve them out."
"Port Gibsox, May 4, 1863.
"The day I wrote you last there was an order issued that
there should be no more letters sent out vmtil after Vicks-
burgh was taken. I did not see the order, but that was the
report. I will have this ready to send when the mail goes.
"We left Camp Perkins on the 22nd, and marched down
the river Ave miles below Carthage and nine miles below our
former camp. We stayed there three days, took steam boat
about 12 miles further and stopped within sight of and about
four miles above Grand Gulf. This was on the 28th. On the
morning of the 29th, about 9 o'clock, four gunboats and three
rams started for a ]i()int beloAv the fort in order to shell out
2^4 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
the Fort, which was very strougly fortified. We could stand
at our Camp and watch the bombardment, and it was a ter-
rible though grand sight. The roar of the cannon was con-
tinual for about an hour and a half, without any intermission,
and for the balance of the day there was shot fired about once
in five minutes, until about the middle of the afternoon. We
had silenced all their guns in the fort except three.
' ' The gun boat Benten ran to within about 75 yards of the
fort, and poured a perfect stream of iron hail into it, but
failed to silence them. They had good breastworks. Our loss
is not known certain, but one boat. There were two privates,
one Lieut, and tw^o negToes killed b}^ a shell coming through
the port holes and exploding in their midst. There were about
five others killed and 18 wounded.
"The rebels acknowledge the loss of Col. Wade, Chief of
Ordnance, and seven privates killed and 25 wounded.
"The night of the 29th there were four transports, five
barges, four gunboats and two rams ran the gauntlet by the
Fort to a place five miles below where we met them by march-
ing across the country. One of the rams was badly disabled
in passing the fort. We embarked on the boats the next morn-
ing and floated down the river 5 or 6 miles and landed on the
east side of the river. We marched wp the river oh the Mis-
sissippi side from two o'clock P. M. until sundown, when we
stopped about a half an hour to get our suppers. We then
started and marched till 12 o'clock at night. We marched
slow, stopping every 15 minutes, giving the advance guard
time to look around.
"About 12 o'clock we came too close to a rebel battery to
be healthy. They threw grape and shell right into our midst.
One of the fruit of the vine striking close enough to me to
throw sand in my eyes, but that was nothing to wliat it was
a few minutes later, because most of the boys could lie down in
the road, which was cut through a top of the ridge to the
depth of about two or three feet and hide from the fire, but
I lay on the bank with some others. We did not lie there long
until we were ordered to support our battery, which was get-
ting into position as fast as it could. We obeyed orders of
course, but some, (in fact all) of the boys got very mannerly
after getting to their feet.
"The rebel battery fired very close, and the shot and shell
flew right over our heads a little too close to be comfortable,
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 235
which would make the boys all nod their heads ; some of them
nodding so low that their faces touched the ground. This
only lasted a few minutes, causing a little confusion in the
ranks, but they soon got over it, and stood right up to their
w^ork from that time till the battle was over. While in that
place there was a spent ball hit the Lieut. Col., bruising him
a little but not serious — one of the Cos. had two wounded,
one has since died, the other is all right again.
"We marched there to a ravine and lav under fire all
night. On the morning of the first (Friday) about 9 o'clock,
the 21st Iowa was in front of us and was ordered to charge a
cane brake in their front. Their Col. (Merrell) made some
objections, saying he was out of his place. Our Col. said to
the Chief of Staff, the 23rd will do it, the 21st then filed around
us and came up in our rear. We marched up without a grum-
ble or a flinch, preserving a good line and fired two volleys
into the cane brake. The command was given, 'Forward,
March.' We marched into the edge of the cane brake, fixed
bayonets and charged through, cleaning it of rebels and driv-
ing them across into another a few rods further on our road
to Port Gibson. After we had driven the rebels out of the
road, one of the 21st coming through after us, got a rebel flag
that our boys had charged over. One of our company passed
right by it, but did not stop to pick it up.
"As soon as we got to the top of the ridge we let into them
again and fired an average of 35 rounds to the man. It lasted
just an hour and the shortest hour I ever put in, as I thought.
During that hour the 23rd Iowa whipped the 23rd and 20th
Alabama. The 23rd Ala. had been in five battles, and had
never been whipped and declared they never could be, but we
left 300 of their men on the l)attle field by that one hour's
work. Our company lost one man killed, C. C. Batterill shot
through the head over the right eye. Two wounded (Wm.
Houge in the back close to the spine, dangerously, and Jacob
A. Tabler slightly in the arm) and seven killed. The rebels
fired too high, but we did not object.
"After firing ceased, Gen. Hovey rode up and said, 'boys
you are soldiers, every one of you.' He then turned to the
Lieut. Col. and asked what Regt. charged that cane brake,
he said the 23rd Iowa. Hovey said, 'God bless the 23rd Iowa,'
and took off his hat and yelled like a steam boat whistle.
Hovev is in command of another Division of old soldiers,
236 PAST AND PRESENT OP^ WAYNE COUNTY
which made the remarks more complimentary to th'e 23rd
and tlie Regt. appreciates it. I am giving more of what the
23rd done than of the otliers, because I know^ more about it.
We made another charge during the day that report says an
111. Regt. refused to make when the Lieut. Col. said the 23rd
wanted to try it. AVe w^ere told to go ahead. We did so and
lost one killed and one wounded. After making the last
charge w^e fired six rounds, and that finished our day's work.-
' ' We had not slept any the night before, and eaten nothing
during the day and were both hungry and sleepy. I Avas
struck with a spent ball during the day, but it did no damage.
Our loss is estimated at about 700 or 800 in killed, wounded
and missing.
' • The Rebel medical director is reported to have said their
loss in killed and wounded is 3,500 and the whole army
is missing. Some of their men were here that were at Shiloh,
and they said that Shiloh w^as calm compared to the first of
May.
''I might give you a great many more points about the
battle, but I don't think the good of the countr}^ requires it.
The appearance of the field after the battle is just such as
you can read in the papers after any battle.".
"Edwards Station, May 19, 1863.
"It is two weeks since I wrote mv last letter, but there has
been no mail going out since, and I could not have sent it if
I had written and it is not likely that we can send any mail
till after Vieksburgh is taken, l)ut that will not be long. If
it is not taken now^, it will be before tomorrow^ night.
"Since wa-itino' last we have seen the monkev grow to be
the size of an elephant. The battle described in my last will
be known as Magnolia church, Andrews Hill or Port Gibson.
Since that time there has been five different battles fought
with complete success to the Federal army. We were not
engaged especially in more than tw^o. On Saturday the 16th
inst. w^e were held as a reserve a part of the day, and in the
afternoon the 16th Ohio were repulsed and w^e went in and
met them coming out of the fight in confusion. We went
over the same ground that they did, but for some cause the
Johnnies did not wait for us. We took some prisoners, but
did not lose any men. This place will be known as Champions
Hill.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 237
''After the battle, which was very stubbornly fought on
both sides, we marched to Edwards Station; camped about
9 o'clock P. M. I had marched since the morning of the 15th,
and all I had to eat was two crackers. After getting into
Camjj I got a potato about as large as a goose egg and eat it
raw. We were up by 4 o'clock in the morning, and marched
to Black River, about 4 miles. As our General could depend
on us, we were put out of our place proper, and moved to the
extreme right of the army on the bank of Black River; cov-
ered by the bank we laid there some time, when our Col. w^as
ordered to occupy the enemy's left breastworks if he could.
He answered, 'we can do it General, we can do it.' He did
not know how far it was to them, but it would have made no
diif erence to him. He ordered us to fix bayonets. Then Left
Wing forward. The five companies moved out under fire.
Right Wing, Forward. When the five Right Companies
started, we climbed the bank and had to run just a quarter of a
mile through a i^erfect shot of leaden hail, which left very near
one-half of our Right on the field, though some fell from
exhaustion. We were loaded rather too heavilv for fast iim-
ning as we had our canteens, haversacks, cartridge boxes and
guns, which amounted to several pounds, but according to
the General's watch we made the quarter in just three min-
utes, driving out 5 rebel Regts. and taking 1,600 more prison-
ers. It was short but we lost 10 wounded in our Company,
and 115 in the eight companies, that were really in the charge.
The other two were out skirmishing at the time. To look
back now I can't see how any one got through. I was struck
but not hurt. My shii't sleeve was shot through the wrist,
and without touching the skin. Another struck me on the
leg, leaving quite a mark and drawing blood, but it did not
cut my pants ; the third passed through the strap of my gam,
one through the front part of my blouse and one through the
back of my blouse. The Rebels had a most terrible enfilading
fire on us from not less than 2,000 guns for the whole distance.
I believe we are ordered to march toward Yicksburgh today,
and I must prepare for it.
"We will not have to do any more fighting soon, as we are
detailed to guard the prisoners that were taken here, and will
probably take them to Chicago. We lost our Col. on the field.
He fell mortally wounded and died the next day. In losing
him we lost one of the bravest of Iowa's sons. A gentleman
238 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
and a soldier beloved by all that knew him. He wanted to
be buried on the battle field, but the officers wanted him to be
buried beside Col. Dewey in Des Moines.
"Youngs Point, La., May 23, 1863. After writing the
first sheet we marched the next day, and camped on the west
side of Black River, directlv across the river from the battle
field. The 20tli we marched to the Miss, river or Yazoo river
a little above its mouth, crossing the old battle ground of
Chickasaw Bluffs, just above Vicksburgh.
"That night we were relieved from guarding the prison-
ers by another Regt., as we were completely worn out by
marching and fighting.
' ' The next morning we started on board the boat for parts
unknown, but the boat soon landed here. Young's Point is
about five miles above Vicksburgh on the west side of the
river, and in sight of Vicksburgh.
"On the 9th the attack was made on Vicksburgh and there
has been a continual roar of cannon and musketry ever since.
The musketry and field pieces keeping comparatively quiet
at night, but the mortars keep it up day and night.
"I was down near the Point vesterdav and seen the gun-
boat fight, which was terribly grand and very heavy. Most of
the Vicksburgh batteries and five gunboats playing at once.
It would be a nice sight, and a person could enjoy it first
]'ate, but for the awful consequences. I think we will take the
place, but it will be a heavy loss for both sides.
"The night we came to the Yazoo the rebels tried to cut
their way through the Union lines and release the prisoners,
but were repulsed with heavy loss. They have tried it twice
since, but failed. We have the place completely surrounded
so that no man can get out. We have three lines clear around
the town. It is reported that Gen. Grant says that the charge
we made last Sal^bath at Black River Bridge was the best
that was ever made on the continent. We can't have much
idea here how the battle is going only that the rebel lines are
being pressed in and consequently ours are getting shorter,
but by the help of God of battles we will come out triumphant
over all our foes and the cause of Freedom will spread through
this length and breadth of this once happy country.
"I am Sergeant of the prison guard today, and have charge
of about 5,000 prisoners.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 239
' ' May 24th. The battle still rages. We hear a great man y
reports, but don't know what to believe. Some of the 22nd
Iowa were taken prisoners yesterday and paroled. They came
in here yesterday.
"I have never described my feelings when going into bat-
tle, and don't know that I can. I suppose all have the same
or a similar feeling. It is not fear, nor is it anger. I never
was in a more j^leasant humor, and after taking a prisoner
I could shake hands wdth him as a friend. It is not a feeling
of pity, because when the men were falling around me the
fastest, I did not think of stopping to notice who it was';
would jump over tw^o at a time in the hurry to get to their
breastworks. I had perfect i3resence of mind wdien the ball
struck my leg. I stopped and looked at it, and when I seen
that my pants were not cut I concluded that it was not neces-
sary to fall at that time, though the bullets w^re flying like
a perfect, hail storm, but I came through safe by the Protect-
ing Power that is thrown around us all. Had there been no
such power not a man could have come through, and I can't
see how the balls passed between us without hurting more
than was hurt.
"There is onlv one W'Ord that I can think of that will con-
vey some idea of the feeling, and that will not do it. ' ' Dread ' '
comes nearest. You feel like vou wdll be hit, but don't care
much; vou don't care for vourself or anv bodv else so vou
succeed. After the battle every one feels like he had been
providentially saved, and feels glad to see any of his Com-
pany that may have come through, and we shake hands and
grasp one another as though we had not seen each other for
years.
"May 26th, 1863. On Board the Steamer Chancellor.
We are on our w^ay up the Mississippi river to Memphis with
the prisoners. We started this morning. We have 5.000
prisoners, on five steamers, with four Regts. guarding them.
There are seven companies of the 23rd on this boat, and 1,000
prisoners; three of our Cos. are on another boat.
"I have not told you before, but we have had no tents from
the 28th of April to the 24th of May ; sleeping on the ground
through all kinds of weather, though the weather was gener-
ally good. The day Jackson was taken and the day before
(May 13 and 14), the rain poured dowm all day and we trav-
eled all day through mud and water that was at no time less
V«LI— 14
240 PAST AND PKESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
than shoe mouth deep, and from that to half leg deep, and
waded streams that were above high water mark. You may
gTiess that it was hard marching. At night the water would
run all around us, and dam up against us, but we had good
health through it all.
"The country in Louisiana is very flat, but across the river
in Mississippi it is just the opposite; very rough and broken.
The hills are not high, but lots of them.
"The battle of Vicksburgh was not decided when we left,
but thev had ceased firing on both sides. Our bovs have them
shut in on all sides so that there is not a possibility of escape,
and they are undermining the Rebel Forts and intend to blow
them up. I saw three wagon loads of spades and picks going
down to them.
"I will mail this at Memphis."
"Young's Point, La., June 1, 1863.
"We left the prisoners at Memphis on the 27th ult., and
started back to this point on the 28th, and landed here yes-
terday evening. There is still considerable firing going on
over the river vet. This morning Avas the heaviest cannonad-
ing I ever heard, but it did not last very long.
"It is reported that the rebels are on the point of starva-
tion. S. L. Glasgow has just got his eagles. We left the
Capt. (Glasgow) at Memphis in the hospital. He will not
be likely to do any more service.
' ' The health of the right is very poor at present. We have
been worked a little more than the boys can stand for the
last month.
"Gov. Kirkwood is here, and savs that the 23rd must have
some rest. We will probably go over the river and rest in
the rifle pits. ' '
"Yol^ng's Point, La., June 6, '63.
"In answer to what I suppose would be your most anxious
inquiry, my health is good. Vicksburgh is not taken, but our
lines are being continually shortened, and the final triumph
of Grant & Co. is onl}^ a matter of time. We did not go over
to Vicksburgh as expected in my last, and now have no idea
when we will go or whether we will go at all. We don't hear
from our personal friends over there, and I can not give you
any information concerning them. The general news is all
we hear and that is not always reliable. The prisoners are
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 241
stiJl coming in from the other side of the river, and the negroes
are set to guarding them, which they don't appear to appre-
ciate very well. The colored gentlemen are new at the busi-
ness and a great deal more strict than old soldiers, and will
allow them no privileges at all.
"It is reported that the Guerillas made an attack on the
camp at Millikcns Bend a day or two ago, and were repulsed
by the negroes. Last night we were waked by an order, about
11 o'clock, to be prepared for an attack in the morning about
o o'clock, when we were called in line of battle to await their
coming, but they did not come. We slept on our arms in
line of battle from that to morning. The attack was not made
though they were seen within a mile and a half of our pickets
late yesterday evening.
"June 9. I was stopped rather unceremoniously on the
6th by an order coming for us to go to Millikens Bend forth-
with as they were expecting an attack at that place by the
rebels. We went up that evening, the Regt. numbering 130
men, and got there just a little after dark. When we arrived
the officers in command had about concluded that the rebels
were not coming, so we lay on the boat all night with the
understanding that we were to be notified of any approach
of the enem}^ in time for us to disembark. (It would be well
to state here that there were no troops there except colored
Regis, with white officers.) We lay on the boat till nearly
daylight, when the news came that the rebels were coming,
])ut we did not think they were in very heavy force or very
near. We went out to within about 20 steps of the breast-
works, and the front halted until the rear would get off the
boat. As soon as the front stopped the Col. rode to the breast-
works to see where the rebels were, and to his surprise found
them within 200 yards of the works. Four Regis, deep,
coming up, driving cattle, mules and horses in front of them
for breastworks, carr^dng the Stars and Stripes and some
of them with our clothes on. He ordered us, 'double quick,
for God's sake, they are right on us.' We did so but the
left of the Regt. did not all get into the works until the rebels
were on top of them. Both sides used their bayonets with
effect. One member of the Regt. and a rebel met and at
the same instant plunged their bayonets into one another
and both fell dead on the works with their bayonets in that
position. Another rebel I'an his bayonet through one of our
242 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
men, and one of our men knocked the rebel's brains out with
the butt of his musket. It was a very hot place. The rebels
numbering not less than 2,500 against 130 of us, (except the
negroes, and they had just drawn their guns the day before
and did not know how to use them). They stood much better
than I supposed they would, being so green in the business,
but they fired too high and exposed themselves too much as
they would fire and then keep their heads in danger to w^atch
the effects of their shots. Thev did not all know how to load
their guns, and did not loiow where their caps were. Three
of them came to me for caps. I said, 'My God, have you no
caps?' One of them answered, 'Massa, we don't know where
dey are. ' I showed them and they left. We had been in the
ditch about three minutes when the negroes gave way on our
left and let the rebels in. Thev fired a terrible vollev on us
right down the ditch, and were preparing to give us another
when the Col. ordered us to fall back to the next breastworks
that run at right angles with the first. We did so when they
flanked us again, and we had to fall back. We did so when
they flanked us again, and we had to fall back to the river
bank. There was not a man flinched in the Regt. till he was
ordered to fall back. Out of 130 that went into the engage-
ment 25 were killed on the field and 43 wounded, making a
little more than half of the Regt. When we fell back to the
river one of our gunboats lying there shelled the rebels and
killed several. I counted beside our killed, 50 dead negroes
on our left.
"On the right of our Regt. the negroes killed a rebel gen-
eral and his horse. The rebel loss in killed and wounded is
sui3posed to be not less than 300, though we have no certain
way of ascertaining as they hauled off a great many, but they
left directly in front of the 23rd, thirty of their dead; all
their wounded were taken off except one. About 25 w^ere dead
in front of the negroes, and it is reported that a shell exploded
among them on their retreat and killed 42. There were prob-
ably 1,200 negroes around the works. There were four Regts.
of the rebels engaged and said to be one held in reserve.
"After the rebels left we marched down the river to Van
Buren hospital a mile or more down the river in order to pro-
tect that place, as we had quite a number of sick and conva-
lescent then. We stayed there that night, and were reinforced
bv two more Regts., but thev were not needed, as the rebels
TAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 243
were satisfied witli their first reception, though it was rather
informal. We took boat yesterday again, and came back to
Youngs' Point, where we now lie under marching orders tak-
ing us over to Vicksburg.
"The battle was on the ground where Grant's troops first
landed at Miiliken's Bend preparatory to marching around
Vicksburg. A ditch wide enough to allow a man to stand
in it was dug in the levee on the river side and near enough
to the top to enable us to stand in the ditch and by stretching
a little could look over and see them. The rebellion is a little
like a joint snake now, only that the tail does not jump around
much, but unlike the joint snake it will never come together
again.
"The armies at Vicksburg are within speaking distance
and frequently call to one another. One rebel said, 'we have
got a new general over here', Yank — 'what general', Rebel
— 'general starvation', Yank — 'have you no corn bread?'
Rebel — 'very little, have you any crackers over there ?' Yank
• — 'Yes,' Rebel — 'let us have one' — at this one of the boys
slipped a shell into one of our cannon and sent it over to them.
It bursted middling close, and one of our boj^s asked them
how they liked it, and they answered, 'very well.' This is a
sample of what can be heard every hour."
"Rear of Vicksburg, June 28, 1863.
"We left Young's Point on Thursday the 18th inst; fixed
camp on the 19th. The Right went on picket duty on Satur-
day the 20th, and our pickets and the Rebels were within about
ten steps of one another. Sabbath we were in the rifle x^its
all day. I can't describe to your satisfaction the appearance
of the rifle pits and forts, etc., with all their windings through
the hills across hollows, up ravines and under the rebel forts
above Vicksburg. Our rifle pits now run to within 30 feet of
one of the forts and we have commenced to undermine it.
We are in comparatively little danger to be right under the
guns of the fort. Last night we stood picket within six feet
of the Johnnies. There is a kind of armistice existing be-
tween the pickets, and no firing is done after the pickets are
put out. We extend our pits every night, and guard them
during the day.
"June 25. I did not get to finish this on the 23rd. I was
detailed to take charge of a squad of men at work on the rifle
244 PAST AND PEESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
pits. Stayed twenty-four hours and last night went on
picket, and got back to camp at daylight this morning. It
was reported last night that the rebs were going to try and
cut their way through our lines, but they did not try it on
us, though it appears that they tried it on another part of
the line and failed, with heavy loss to them and none to us.
"Two of my old Penn schoolmates Avere killed in the charge
on the 22nd, John and Mathew Robb. They belonged to the
Twenty-second Iowa — such i« war.
"Our rifle pits cut through the ground that our brigade
charged over. The dead from that charge are very indiffer-
ently buried. One soldier was buried with his legs uncovered
to the knees. They were buried by the rebels, and it is re-
ported that some of them lay five days before being buried, but
that is probably not true, as in this climate and weather the
bodies would be entirely decomposed in that time.
"I am writing amidst the roar of cannon and the sharp
crack of musketry, but our cajnp is in a deep ravine and the
balls pass over us.
"The rebel, General Johnson, is said to be in the vicinity of
Black river, but we have perfect confidence in Grant.
"Our regiment is generally down with the chronic diarrhea.
Company D has only about twenty men now that. are able for
duty. I must now go to bed, so as to be ready for picket again
tonight. ' '
"Rear of Vicksbueg, June 30, '63.
"I am the only man in Company D that is really able for
duty today. My health never was better, and I weigh more
than I ever did at this season.
"The morning report shows eight men for duty, but if it
was not for the urgent necessity to have as strong a force as
possible here there would be only one man reported for duty
in Company D. Our company now numbers seventy-four
men of which thirty-four are absent (sick and wounded.)
We have forty present in camp, and the camp is a very fair
representation of a hospital. Our duty comes hard on those
who are able to perform it, as the most able bodied men do the
duty for those not really able to do it. The sickness is prin-
cipally chronic diarrhoea.
"Our rifle pits now run to within a few feet of the rebel
fort, and they are kept filled with men every night. Tester-
PAST AND PRp]SEXT OF WAYxN'E COUNTY 245
day the rebs threw some hand grenades over into the pits
and killed a man from the Ninety-ninth Illinois, and wounded
two negroes. The men become careless as they become ac-
customed to the danger.
"There are forty cannon playing around our camps most
of the time, and the furthest one not over thirty rods from
where I slept, l)ut still I sleep soundly. An occasional rifle
ball will drop into our camp. Our chaplain stopped one of
them with his aim the other day, and he cariies his arm in a
sling. It was a spent l)all, but it bruised his arm consider-
ably.
"Reports and rumors are common, but one universal opin-
ion is that Vicksburg will have to surrender in a short time.
"The Johnnies are saving their ammunition, and do very
little firing. A division on our Right blew up a fort the
other day, which was a signal for a general fusilade along
our whole lines, which lasted about an hour and a half and
was terrific. When the fort was blown up we could see the
men blown into the air from ten to thirty feet."
a-
Rear of Vicksburg, July 4, '63.
"Vicksburg surrendered today, and we are ordered to be
ready to march this evening with five days' rations and 150
rounds of ammunition, beside what we carry in our cartridge
boxes. We go in the direction of Black river, and it is sup-
posed we are going to re-take Jackson or try Joe Johnson
again on the other side of Black river.
"Our regiment is entirely unfit to march. I never had
better health, but am the only one in the company that can
say that. There are now four privates and one Sergt.
reported for duty in Company D. Grant is well liked by the
boys, but it is reported that he is parolling all the prisoners
taken here, and if such is the case he will have the soldiers
down on him.
"I have to be ready to march by 6 o'clock this evening,
and don't have time to write any more."
"In Camp Near Jacksox, Miss., July 14, 1863.
"I have time to write but a very few lines before the mail
goes out, and have to do that in the open air, and a quarter
before 5 o'clock in the morning.
246 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
"Our company numbers thirty-eight men all told, present,
and the regiment has only sixty men present. Two and a
half months ago we crossed the Mississippi river at Bruins-
brugh with upwards of six hundred able-bodied men, and now
we have only about ten of them present. The majority of
them were used up with hard work, bad water, hot weather,
malarious air and rebel lead.
"We have Jackson almost surrounded and it appears to
me that we are going to take it with the spade, as we did
Vicksburg. I do not know how much of an army we have
here. The rebels are supposed to number about forty thou-
sand, but I think this is an exaggeration. We have not had
any special engagement here yet. The cannon balls pass over
our heads frequently, and we have had a few men wounded.
The balls sound something like a cat being hurled through
the air and keeping up their usual squall.
"Our officers consist now of one Major and four Lieuten-
ants."
"Vicksburg, Miss., July 26, '63.
"We are again in camp on the mighty Mississippi, but
this time about a mile below the city. The health of the
regiment is improved very much, though there is still plenty
of room for improvement. Our company is being reduced
very fast. We have had twenty deaths and one dying — twelve
discharged and three deserted.
"We stayed at Jackson about ten days, done some fight-
ing and had the pleasure of seeing the place evacuated and
the rebels scoot. We captured a few prisoners. The day
after the evacuation of Jackson, we were ordered back two
miles to rest and clean up. After fixing camp, to help us
to take our rest, we marched about five miles and tore up
about five miles of railroad.
"I have not been in Vicksburg yet. Jackson is a very
ordinary town for the capital of a state. ' '
"Vicksburg, Miss., Aug. 2, 1863.
"We are still camped below Vicksburg, but expect to go
further do^^m the river soon. General Smith started down
the river this morning. We have now present with Co.
26 men — 12 of them are sick.
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 247
"Aug. 3. We have received marching orders for down
the river."
"ViCKSBURG, Miss., Aug. 6, 1863.
'"Tis just one year ago today that I remember w^ell that
I left my home that I held so dear and came out to fight
the battles that had to be fought to preserve the honor of our
Country, and uphold the principles of truth and justice, that
is held dearer than all besides. One year has passed, and
by the providence of God I have been protected from the
enemies' bullets, and from the ravages of disease in a great
measure, more so at least than any of our company. I have
passed through the fire trial that soldiers must expect to
go through if they do their duty, and come out unharmed or
nearly so.
''I think I have done as I told you I would do. I told
you that I would not rush into danger recklessly, but would
go where duty called me, regardless of consequences. This I
think I have done, at least as far as I know how. I don't
think any one can say that I flinched from duty either in
camp or in battle."
"Caerollton, La., Aug. 22, 1863.
"I have delayed writing to you, expecting to get a fur-
lough but I heard the General say today that furloughs had
played out for the present.
"The health of the company is improAdng. The troops
were reviewed here today by General Banks. We got to see
our new commander. He appears to be a very fair man, but
puts on lots of style.
' ' Sabbath, Aug. 23. It is reported that we have marching
orders, or rather to be ready to march at any time.
"Carrollton is situated six miles above New Orleans by
land, and ten miles by water. We have a splendid place for
camp ; the nicest we have ever had, level as a floor and cov-
ered with a good coat of short grass. We are about a mile
from the town."
"Carrolton, La., Sabbath, Aug. 30, 1863.
"I have been down to see Crescent City, and think it a
very nice place, though built a little too much on the French
stvle. The streets are too narrow, and thev are run at too
248 FAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
many different angles to be very beautiful. The weather is
very warm, though not so oppressive as you might suppose.
We are far enough south to be affected by the sea breezes;
the weather is not so sultry as at Vicksbiirgh. We are not
more than eighty miles from the Gulf on a straight line and
then Lake Ponchatrain is within about five miles of us, and
the breezes from the two keeps the air cool and refreshing
most of the time. The health of the regiment is improving,
but the sick list is still large. Company D has 33 men pres-
ent and 14 of them are sick vet."
"In Camp Bayou Bouf, La., Sept. 5, 1863.
"I write at present sitting on the bare ground, with the
book on my knee for a desk, about seventy-five miles south-
west of New Orleans, and seven miles from Brashear City,
the terminus of the railroad.
"We started our camp equipage on Thursday evening and
on Friday the Thirteenth Army Corps was received by Gen-
erals Banks and Grant. It was quite a grand aft'air. Grant
was cheered by every division as he passed and every one
seemed glad to see him. There was quite a contrast between
him and Banks. Grant is the same here as he has always
been. As common as any farmer. A person would not sus-
pect him of being the hero of seventeen battles and one of the
greatest generals in the United States at the present time,
by his api^earance. You would not know he was a General,
except by his straps. No sword, sash or epaulets; nothing
but his shoulder straps and brass buttons, but such is Grant.
"Banks was the very opposite, as much so as he could
well be. Grant came on to the field with Banks, and riding
his (Banks) horse, with a slouch hat and coat unbuttoned.
Banks told our Division Commander one day that his men
looked rather shabbily dressed, and their arms were not in
first-class condition, and that he would hardly feel safe with
them in a fight. Our Commander told him that his men had
had something else to do beside dressing and that they had
done it in the right kind of style too. If Banks could not
trust the Thirteenth Corps, Grant could. It is absolutely
true that the soldiers that put on the most style and do the
most blomng and bragging do the least fighting.
"After our review on the 4th we marched to the river
and embarked on steamer, ran across the river to Algiers,
-fls-^
soX
-TiLDj^
, 1 cNU/^
fOU
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 251
opposite New Orleans, where we took the cars in the evening
and arrived here about 10 o'cloclv last night, without tents and
nothing but what we can carry. Our outfit will probably be
here today or tomorrow.
"Sejit. 6. We are still here and may stay a week. We
had some rain yesterday, and I caught some of it by setting
a bucket under the edge of the tent (we call them dog tents.)
I thought I would get one good drink for a change, as the
water here is not quite as good as we have in Iowa.
"The Confederacy is rotten, but I supposed that the rot-
tenness did not extend much above the ground, but from the
taste of that water it must extend uj^ward at least five miles.
I could not drink it. The water out of the puddles around
your father's barn would be good compared to it. There
might possibh^ have been something on the tent to taste the
water, but at any rate it was not good.
"Our cami3 is about three rods from a bayou of nice look-
ing water, and we have to carry the water we use for drink-
ing and cooking about a mile.
"The country is perfectly flat from here to New Orleans
and how much further west it continues I don 't know. Igno-
rance is the principal ingredient in a soldier's pill, and duty
is the other and the two must be well pulverized and mixed and
taken in allopathic doses.
"Our present movements are in the direction of Galves-
ton, Texas, but where we go remains to be seen. Our orders
before leaving Carrollton were to go in light marching order
with forty rounds of ammunition. We go from here to — 1
must take one of the above pills. "
"Brashear City, La., Sept. 14, 1863.
"We are now about eight miles west of our last camp, and
on another bayou. We can't use the water, except to bathe;
it is salty. We are about twenty miles from the Gulf and
can see a difference in the breezes.
"On the night of the 12th some of our division were de-
tailed to unload tw^o car loads of provisions, and some eastern
troops were guarding the train, and some of our boys kicked
up a little row with them and made quite a little noise. Some
of the boys went up to see the fun. Matters got rather warm,
and two New York regiments w^ere brought out to quiet the
bovs. Thev had their arms with them. Some of our bovs
252 PAST AND PKESEXT OF WAYNE COUNTY
got some of their guns and broke tliem and told the d — d
Yorkers, as they call them, to go to h — 1, but the guards out-
numbered the fatigue party and quiet was finally restored,
but not until there had been considerable mischief done. Our
boys told them that if they had just two more men they
would whip them out, guns and all.
"They have some of the First and Second Brigades in
the guard house, and will make it hot for them if they can
prove who broke the gims, but a thing of that kind is hard to
prove as a soldier never sees another do anything wrong.
"As luck would have it, none of the Twenty-third were
there, well none of them were caught. ' '
"In Camp Near Beashear City, La., Sept. 29, '63.
' ' Our camp is now about two miles from Brashear City on
the west side of Berweck Ba^^ou. We moved over here on
the 24th inst. The rain has been falling since last evening,
and everything looks blue and the report is in circulation that
we have marching orders for tomorrow. Won't that be nice ?
The roads will be so soft and pleasant our corns will not hurt
much.
"Sept. 30. The rain fell in perfect torrents during the
night, and the camp is covered with water. Our tent is on
a small raise in the ground so that the water does not affect
us much, but most of the boys have to lie in water from one
to three inches deep or else stay out in the wet.
"We had grand review on last Sabbath by General E. O. C.
Ord, commanding the Thirteenth Corps. He appears to be
a very fair man, and quite a plain one.
5 ?
"Berwick Bayou, Oct. 2, 1863.
"The weather has moderated and is nice at present. We
march tomorrow morning at 6 o'clock."
"Camp in the Field, 50 Miles from Brashear City, La.,
Oct. 8, 1863.
"Since I wrote you last we have marched four days at
the rate of 12 to 15 miles per day, with splendid roads, splen-
did weather and through a splendid country where the weather
is dry. The whole country is as level as a floor, and the
people are generally rich. We camped here on the 6th and
will probably stay a few days.
"The health of the regiment, or of what are here, is good."
PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY 253
*' Vermillionville, La., Oct. 12, 1863.
"We have stopped in our march for three or four days to
wait for provisions,^and we can send out some mail on Wednes-
day (the day after the election.) jMr. Houston, our major's
father, is our election Commissioner.
"We are now about 175 miles west of New Orleans, and
the country continues flat, although we passed some hills on
the road. I will finish this letter after the election tomorrow.
"Oct. 14th. I don't have time to write more, only that
the election went off ^^esterday. We have to go out on brigade
drill and the Commissioner will be gone before we get back.
The vote of the Twenty-third and Twenty-first and Twenty-
second Iowa gave the democrats 35 and the republicans about
250 votes."
"Vermillion, La., Oct. 15, 1863.
"I did not get to finish my letter yesterday on account of
having to drill so will try again, though I have no idea when
I can send it out. We had brigade drill yesterday, the first
since we left Millikens Bend. I was in command of the Com-
pany. My first experience in this drill, but got through all
right. The Colonel had his horse killed by lightning last
Monday night. He now has no horse, but he borrowed the
Surgeon's and the surgeon rides a pony of small dimensions
and poor qualifications.
"Since 4 o'clock vesterdav we have heard firing in front.
I should judge it was about twenty miles away. The Third
division is moving out now to the front, but it is not expected
that they will have much to do. We have had the advance
on this march till now (of the Thirteenth A. C.)
"At the election the Ohio troops voted as follows:
"The Sixteenth, 23 democrats, 156 republicans; Forty-
second, 7 democrats; One Hundred and Fourteenth, 21 dem-
ocrats.
"Oct. 17. We are still here. All our men that are away
on furlough and have overstaved their time three weeks are
marked deserters today by order of Gen. Ord. Several of
Comi)any D are included in the order, and it is hard to do
because they are generally good men. It is reported that five
officers of the Twenty-first were dropped from the rolls for
being absent too long."
254 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
"Vermillion^ La., Oct. 21, 1863.
"As we march in the morning at 6 o'clock I will write a
few lines though it is 9 o'clock P. M. Captain Woodbury's
resignation was accepted today and he starts home in the
morning, and I will send this by him.
"The boys are enjoying themselves. They have got a
fiddle and one of the boys is playing it, and they have a lot
of niggers dancing."
"New Iberia, La., Nov. 2, 1863.
' ' Since writing last we marched twenty-eight miles north-
west to Opelousas, La. Camped two days, when we were
ordered back to this place. We are now twenty-four miles
nearer New Orleans than when I wrote last. The last day
we marched we came between 5 and 1 o'clock. This is a
little the hardest marching we ever done. I would have stood
it very well, but I had the rheumatism in one of my knees and
sprained my left ankle, so that I had to ride about five miles
in the ambulance.
"I have been in the service now fifteen months and never
was in an ambulance before, and have been with the regiment
all the time.
"Some of the boys stole General Lawler's shirts the night
before the march and the boys claim that he forced the march
for revenge. Every little while the boys would call out to
the General, 'Here's your shirt.'
"On the evening before the march spoken of (we had
orders for no foraging). York got after a hog. The hog run
and York run ; the hog was in the lead and it run into Law-
ler's tent. York followed and caught it there; Lawler got
the hog, and York was sent back to company headquarters
under guard.
"Nov. 3. I had to stop writing yesterday to go on duty
as officer of the day. We are camped on a bayou about sixty
miles from the Gulf and the country is so level that the tide
runs from the Gulf up here. Boats run on the Bayou, but
it is so narrow that the boats (common river boats) almost
fill it to both shores, and when they want to turn around and
go the other way they have to pull them around with men.
There are a few places that boats can pass each other."
TAST AND TKESEXT OF WAYNE COUNTY 255
"Berwick Bayou, La., Nov. 13, 1863.
"Since writing last we have marched about 60 miles; 30
miles the first day and 25 the second and camped within 5
miles of this place, which is just across the Bayou from
Brashear City, and marched in the next day. This is con-
sidered very hard marching. The boys think it was done on
a bet, as we know of no reason for a hurry. A man could
walk across the country alone double the distance and not
be so tii'ed at night as he is after a march of this kind.
"We were ordered today to be ready to march in ten min-
utes. We packed everything and loaded them on the wagons
and then the order was countermanded and we were ordered
to be ready to march at 6 o'clock tomorrow. We have sent our
baggage across the bayou tonight and we will cross in the
morning. We got to New Orleans and from there to Browns-
ville, Texas. A part of the first brigade started yesterday
from here by ship. They will run down the Bayou to the Gulf
and from there to Brownsville. This is only conjecture, but
we may go up the Mississippi instead.
"Nov. 14. — We are now at Algiers across the river from
New Orleans, and I am sitting on the ground in the open air,
writing on my knee by the light of the camp fire.
"We are going to start for Brownsville in the morning.
Captain Evans is expressing his oi3inion of some of the
neighbors at home, concerning their treatment of the colored
boy he sent up there to help Mrs. Evans. His opinion of
those neighbors is not verv flattering.
' ' The boys are all taking a part in the abuse of the Knights
of the Golden Circle, as they learn from their friends at
home that there is an organization of the kind in Wayne
county. ' '
"Fort Esperaxza, Texas, Dec. 1, '63.
"This is all the paper I can get, as my trunk has not
arrived and I have just two minutes in which to write.
"The health of the company is good. We are detailed to
stay here and hold a fort that we took on the 29th of Novem-
ber. Our regiment lost none, and the brigade only lost one
killed and four wounded. The Rebs evacuated on the night
of the 29th, and we took possession the next day."
256 PAST AND PRESENT OF WAYNE COUNTY
li I
Fort Esperanza^ Texas, Dec. 19, '63.
The weather here is very disagreeable a good part of the
time caused by Northerners or North winds. We have a
Norther about every three days. I would like to be at home
better than anything else, but I don't think I could be con-
tented there under present circumstances. I know that my
country needs my services, and if necessary I had better
leave our children in a way that they can consider themselves
as good as anybody, although they may be poor orphans, than
to go home and stay with them and let the government sink
and then they may have to bow their heads, bend their knees
or take off their hats to a Monarch, which I believe will be
the case if the Rebs are successful. My efforts alone will
not amount to very much but, 'little drops of water, little
gi^ains of sand, make the mighty ocean and the pleasant
land', and if I make one drop in the mighty ocean I will
have done my duty, and with the blessing of God it will be
that much done that no one else will have to do, and if every
man in the north would j)ut one drop in rather than take
one out, the government would have no lack of material or
m 
