CHAPTER XVII.

(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)

WARREN TOWNSHIP.

THE FIRST SETTLERS-THE FIRST MILLS-THE FIRST CHILD-WILD GAME-THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS-THE FIRST CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS-ORGANIZATION OF THE TOWNSHIP-TOBACCO AND BERRY CULTURE-THE POPULATION AND TOWNSHIP OFFICERS-THE CITY OF BARNESVILLE-A SKETCH OF THE FOUNDER-MUNICIPAL OFFICERS-THE POST OFFICE-THE MANUFACTORIES-THE BANKS-DR. CAROLUS JUDKINS-HON. JOHN DAVENPORT-THE CHURCHES-THE SCHOOLS-SECRET SOCIETIES-ROBERT HILLES POST, G. A. R.—THE PRESS-THE CEMETERIES-THE BELMONT COUNTY CHILDREN'S HOME-THE BOARD OF CHARITIES.

Seven years before the organization of Warren township, emigrants began to enter into the territory from Pennsylvania and Maryland, and large caravans of Quakers arrived from the Southern States.

The country was almost an unbroken wilderness, and the labors and hardships and dangers to which these early emigrants were subjected are scarcely understood by their descendants today.

THE FIRST SETTLERS.

Among the first settlers are mentioned the names of George Shannon, father of Governor Shannon, John Dougherty, John Grier, who emigrated from Maryland in 1800, and built their rude cabins on section 9 and 12.

The year following, Robert Plummer, the first Quaker to settle in the township, built his humble cabin of poles on section 10, not far distant from the settlers above mentioned. Mr. Plummer was a devoted Friend, and set apart land at the very outset for the establishment of a Friend's Meeting House and graveyard. Indeed until 1806 the pioneers of Warren township were largely Quakers from the States above mentioned.

The winter of 1802-03 was remarkable for the intensity of the cold, causing the pioneers the utmost distress. It was during a violent snow storm in January that Governor Shannon's father, who had gone off upon a hunting expedition to supply the family with game, was buried in a snow drift and perished before his body was recovered.

In 1804 Henry Grier located west of Barnesville, near the line, and John Kennon, father of Judge William Kennon, Sr., camped upon a tract adjoining Alexander Campbell's, who had settled on the land just over the line in Guernsey County.

THE FIRST MILLS.

In 1806 Joseph Middleton erected the first horse mill for grinding grain. Prior to that time the corn was ground on hand mills or cracked on hominy blocks. A year later Cam. Thomas built the first water mill, three and one-half miles south of Barnesville, and in connection with this grist mill a sawmill was

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operated, the first in the township. Between grinding grain and sawing lumber, this mill was kept constantly employed.

Some of the deprivations of the early settlers are little understood today. As only small tracts of land were open to the cultivation of wheat, white flour was a luxury, and what little was used was carried upon pack horses from Wheeling. Salt that today is worth but 25 or 35 cents per bushel was then sold for $6 per bushel, and like flour was also transported on pack horses from the East.

Blacksmithing was then hard to obtain, and shops were frequently six or eight miles apart. The few nails used in early days were hammered out by the blacksmith and sold at 35 or 40 cents per pound.

Numerous children composed the pioneer families, and these hardy boys and girls spent much time in digging ginseng, which, when dried, was hauled to St. Clairsville and exchanged for groceries wherewith to support the family.

THE FIRST CHILD.

The first child born in Warren township was Wilson Shannon, afterward Governor of Ohio, and Governor Shannon thought it not unworthy of him in after years, to boast of having spent his childhood days in digging and drying ginseng wherewith to aid in the support of his widowed mother.

WILD GAME.

All kinds of game were plentiful, and the pioneers killed large numbers of bears, deer, wild cats, panthers and wolves. And, incredible as it may seem, wild turkeys were so abundant that flocks containing as many as a thousand turkeys were not an uncommon sight.

A noted hunter in those days was a pioneer named Otho French, whose skill in trapping wolves, fighting wild cats, killing bears and deer, and gathering wild honey, are still listened to with entire credulity and enthusiasm by the younger generation.

French was a zealot in the cause of ternperance, and in those days of universal indulgence in the strong drink, refused to entertain in his cabin those carrying liquor about their persons, or shelter the drovers' hogs that were fattened at a distillery.

THE SOCIETY OF FRIENDS.

We are indebted to Edwin and Sarah D. Sears of Warren township for this interesting history of the Society of Friends in the western section of the county. As one of the molding influences in the early history of Warren, Wayne and Somerset townships, we give a brief account of the settlements made by the Society of Friends, some of the improvements with which they have been connected and items of history thought worthy of preservation as being of general interest, together with some of the characteristics of that people.

The eastern half of Warren township was settled mainly by Friends, who came principally from the South, leaving comfortable homes, to become pioneers in the forest wilds north of the Ohio. "Their main object was to remove their children and themselves from the blighting influences of human slavery, against which their religious principles required them to bear a faithful testimony."

Robert Plummer and family, from Maryland —ancestors of the Plummers now living near the Children's Home—were the first "Friend" settlers and were the fourth family in the township, coming about 1801. There was then no open road from the site of Morristown to these parts and it required five days to make the road before them and perform the journey—about six miles. In 1802, William Hodgin and William Patten came prospecting, from Georgia, and were so favorably impressed with Belmont and Jefferson counties that they arranged with Jonathan Taylor to secure a section of land for each of them—that being the smallest amount then subject to entry. As they returned to Georgia, they had to swim their horses through all unfordable streams this side of Cincinnati.

In 1803, they came again, accompanied

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by Stephen Hodgin, Joseph Stubbs and daughter, Deborah, and others. After this, the settlers came in companies, so in the next five years the exact date of arrival of certain families is not now known; but (gleaning from a list very carefully prepared by Jonathan T. Scofield for the Belmont and Jefferson County History, to which able article recourse has been had for valuable information) we find many in that time and later, whose descendants remain in this and adjoining neighborhoods as useful and honored citizens. There were the Vernons, Williamses and Thomases from Georgia; the Starbucks, then but recently from Nantucket ; the Pattersons, Bundys, Stantons (ancestors of Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton), Edgertons, Doudnas, Boswells, Outlands, Halls, Middletons and Hansons from North Carolina; the Baileys from Southeastern Virginia, and the Smiths from Pennsylvania. Soon after came Mary Hicks, Peter Sears, Sr., the Parkers, Wilsons, Joel and Carolus Judkins, Joseph Garretson, the Crews and Nicholsons, Abisha Thomas, James Barnes (the founder of Barnesville), Issachar Scofield, William Dewees, Daniel Strahl, and later the Kennards, Francis Davis, Samuel Walton, James Steer and many others.

Dr. Ephraim Williams—for many years one of Barnesville's ablest physicians—was of Welsh descent, and came here when but eight years of age. He was for more than 40 years a resident of Barnesville.

Friends assembled for divine worship at the home of Robert Vernon, until a meeting house could be built, which was in 1803 or 1804. This was, and still is known as "Stillwater Meeting," and was a branch of Concord Monthly Meeting in Colerain township. The house was a single "log pen," to which an addition was made in 1805. This was the first house built for religious service in Warren township, and Ruth Boswell preached the first sermon there. It served as both meeting and school house for a number of years and was replaced by a larger, better one in 1812, which, in turn was enlarged about 1823 and stood,serving the meeting well till 1878, when it was replaced by the Yearly Meeting with a plain, substantial brick building, 60 by 100 feet, at a cost of $9,000. Its seating capacity is 500. The Yearly Meeting convenes there each autumn and is composed of subordinate meetings in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Iowa and California, from all of which places members attend, beside many visiting Friends from other Yearly meetings. We quote the words of one, not a Friend, who, in referring to these grounds having been thus occupied for nearly 100 years, and to the meetings held there, said: "Out from its influence has come the greater part of the moral dignity of the township and throughout the West its power for good has been felt."

Other settlements were soon made; one in Wayne township in 1808, another at Leatherwood in Guernsey County in 1809 (where a meeting is still held), one at "Ridge," near three miles south of Barnesville, in 1811, one at Somerton and one at Jerusalem in Monroe County,—all being branches of Stillwater Meeting. David and Christiana Grey, parents of Elisha Grey, inventor of the telephone, were members of Ridge Meeting and Warren township is glad to claim him as one of her sons. The first religious services in Somerset and Goshen townships were held by Friends; the former near Somerton in 1818, the latter in Belmont in 1818, where they also built the first school house in the township, Joseph Wright being the first teacher. In Warren also the first school was established by Friends in 1806; it was on the farm now owned by Daniel E. Stanton, three miles southeast of Barnesville. Samuel Berry was the first teacher. As a people. the Society has always maintained a zealous care on the subject of education—it being one of their religious tenets to "assist pecuniarily those members who are unable to defray the expenses of their children's tuition." Thus we find them establishing schools in the different neighborhoods soon after their settlement ; sometimes in buildings for the purpose, sometimes in the meeting house or part of a dwelling, until other arrangements could

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be made, and always, then as now, maintained by private subscription—no part of the public funds being used to defray their expenses.

When the Boarding School was built in 1875, the necessary funds—approximately $45,000were raised by subscriptions of the members composing the Yearly Meeting, together with a generous donation from Philadelphia Friends. Addison Hutton of that city planned the building, Francis Davis was appointed general superintendent of the work, and different divisions were assigned to careful, experienced foremen. Three-fourth of a million brick, burned on the farm (which had just been bought for the location of the School) were used in the walls; as evidence of the care exerted that the work be of good materials and thoroughly done, these bricks were three times carefully selected before being used. The School was opened New Year's Day, 1876. It is located a short distance south of the Yearly Meeting House and is composed of a center building. 120 by 68 feet, and two wings, each 40 by 58 feet—all four stories high. It will accommodate 75 to 80 pupils; one term opened with 108, but the usual number is from 60 to 70 in winter, while the spring term is quite small, owing largely to the fact that a large per cent of the pupils are farmers' children who wish to be at home during the spring and summer. An observatory, containing a telescope, is located on the grounds, and, together with some chemical, physiological and other apparatus, greatly aids in thoroughness of work, which is aimed to be one of the chief characteristics. Necessary improvements have been made from time to time; at present we note the installation of a new "low-pressure" steam heating plant, at a cost of $1,800. Barclay and Hannah Stratton were the first superintendents and Jesse and Susan Edgerton are the present incumbents. In the history of the institution, only two deaths have occurred there. A regular course of study was adopted some years ago, and there is now a small class of graduates each winter session—the total number being 121. During the 26 years the Boarding School has been in successful operation, many hundreds of pupils have obtained a portion of their education there, and it is rare to find any who do not in after years regard the lessons there learned, both from books and the larger school of life, as some of its best discipline.

As illustrations of the hardships of pioneer life, we give two authentic incidents. George and Elizabeth Starbuck, who came to Warren township in the spring of 1805, erected a tent, covered it with canvas, drove forked stakes in the ground, upon which they fixed their beds, to protect themselves from rattlesnakes and other venomous reptiles, and lived in this way until four acres were cleared and planted in corn, after which they built a cabin. Jesse Bailey and family arrived too late in 1806 to build before winter set in. He found a projecting rock, along whose outer edge he stood puncheons upright, enclosing a space 15 to 20 feet wide. In one corner the rocks formed a natural chimney ; four puncheons made a funnel-shaped top; he daubed the sides with clay mud. Here, in comparative comfort, they wintered, while by day, timid deer bounded away, and by night, wolves howled, bears clawed at the door and panthers screamed from trees nearby. Before 1806, the pioneers ground their corn in hand-mills or cracked it on hominy blocks. In that year, Joseph Middleton built the first horsepower grist mill in Warren township, where also the first water mill and sawmill were built by Camm Thomas,—the former in 1807, and it was for eight years the only one in the township. The first fulling mill in Wayne township was built in 1824 by Samuel Berry. Throughout the dark days of slavery, Friends felt and manifested warm sympathy for the slaves; it found expression here in making some of their homes stations on the "Underground Railroad," and in helping them in their escape by night to the North.

On the subject of temperance, Friends' discipline requires its members to abstain from "the unnecessary use of spirituous liquors," and it is rare to find any who make use of them.

The Society in this and other sections has suffered from two divisions—one in 1828,

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known as the "Hicksite Division" and one about 1850, known as the "Guerney Separation," caused respectively by teachings of Elias Hicks and Joseph John Guerney at variance with the principles of early Friends.

The last official statement as to the number now in this section is 400. The question may arise why so many of the early settlements have decreased in numbers or entirely disappeared; in addition to the "Separation," this is in part explained by the fact that Friends, although not an unsettled people, are enterprising, industrious, and, owing to simplicity in manner of living, well adapted to pioneer life, very many emigrated to Indiana, Iowa, Kansas and California, where they are now thriving communities. The zeal of these early pioneers in establishing and attending their religious meetings is worthy of imitation by all. Under adverse circumstances as to distance and modes of travel, they were faithful in attendance twice a week. Their meeting houses were humble structures, warmed by charcoal fires, built on a raised hearth near the center of the room. As they had no matches, the fires were sometimes kindled by means of a flint and steel, powder and tow. At other times a chunk of fire was carried from some dwelling; an instance is recorded of one woman who frequently rode horseback, with a little child behind her, and carried fire nearly two miles.

Orthodox Friends believe in the use of the Scriptural language, thee and thou. They do not feel it right to uncover the head as a mark of respect or superiority to fellow men, realizing that "One is our Father, even Christ," to whom alone such deference is due. Their ministers preach without compensation from the hearers, remembering the example of Him who said : "Freely ye have received, freely give," and that the apostle wrote : "I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak; and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."

The following are some of the prominent ministers of the Society who have resided here a part or all of their lives : Ruth Boswell, Elizabeth Patterson, Hugh Judge, Jared Patterson, Jehu Middleton, James Edgerton, William Flanner, Sarah Mott, Joseph Edgerton, Mary Jones, Ann Langstaff, William Kennard, Rachel E. Patterson, Benjamin Hoyle, Elizabeth Smith, Asenath Bailey, Hanna H. Stratton, James Henderson and Jesse Edgerton.

While fully believing that the principles of the Society are primitive Christianity revived, and that for them this way is best, still with the broadmindedness that should characterize all followers of Christ, Friends believe there are good people in other religious denominations as well, and that the Fatherhood of God extends to all His faithful children and will at last gather into His fold of rest and peace "all the children of God, who are scattered abroad."

THE FIRST CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS

In the township were erected outside of Barnesville. The first church was built in 1804 on section 9. It was a Quaker meeting house, and the first sermon was preached by a woman, Ruth Boswell.

The first school house was likewise built by the Friends on section 1, on the ridge, near the present school house in District No. 1, and the teacher was Hezekiah Bailey.

There are 11 district schools and 12 teachers employed in Warren township, outside of Barnesville.

The following teachers for Warren township schools have been elected for 1902: District No. 1, Elmer Hoge; No. 2, E. Grace Porterfield ; No. 3, H. G. Finley; No. 4, Nora Bailey; No. 5, Charley Dew ; No. 6, Katherine Murphy; No. 7, Cleve E. Warrick; No. 8, J. H. Chaney ; No. 9, Mary E. Udell ; No. 10, Sadie Frasher; No. 11. Lucinda Nabb; No. 4, primary, Dessie Galloway.

ORGANIZATION OF THE TOWNSHIP.

Warren township was organized in 1806-07, and the first justices were John Grier, Jacob Myer, David Smith, John Dougherty and Jesse Bevan. These gentlemen were elected in the

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order named. The first election was held in the cabin of John Grier, at which time Mr. Grier was chosen the first justice of the peace.

TOBACCO AND BERRY CULTURE.

While the soil of Warren township is adapted to farming, it is peculiarly adapted to tobacco and to berry culture.

The cultivation of tobacco in Ohio was begun in Warren township, Belmont County, in 1819, by a Methodist preacher named John D. Price, who, desirous of escaping the baneful influences of slavery, removed to Ohio and located in Warren township, near what is now known as Bethel. Persuaded that the soil which surrounded him would successfully grow tobacco, he sent back to his old home in Calvert County, Maryland. for seed, and planted the first tobacco grown in the State in 1819.

The yield was so profitable that thenceforth tobacco culture became a specialty in that section of the county. Since 1820 Barnesville has been one of the principal centers of the tobacco trade in Ohio.

Beause of the exhausting nature of the crop upon the soil, tobacco is not grown to the same extent today it was 25 years ago, though Mr. Bradfield of Barnesville, who is perhaps one of the largest purchasers of tobacco, says the annual output of Barnesville and vicinity is a thousand hogsheads per annum.

Berry culture for years was the leading industry with the farmers residing near Barnesville, and the fame of the Barnesville strawberry became national. Today, because of unsatisfactory returns, the business is practically abandoned and the farms are largely devoted to grain growing and stock raising. One of the foremost Jersey cattle stock farms in Eastern Ohio is conducted by L. P. Bailey, near Tacoma. Here annual sales are held that attract large gatherings from all parts of the country. In connection with stock raising, Mr. Bailey also conducts an extensive creamery.

THE POPULATION AND TOWNSHIP OFFICERS.

The population of Warren township, as revealed by the loth census, is 5,881, an increase of 425 over the census of 1890.

However, the tax duplicate for 1902 shows a loss of $2,366, as compared with the returns of 1901. The falling off is largely in the rural districts. In one ward in the city of Barnesville there is an increase of $33,293.

The tax levy for 1902 in the township is 1.67, as against 1.92 in 1901, and 2.84 in Barnesville corporation, as against 3.02 in 1901.

TOWNSHIP OFFICERS.

The present township trustees are Smiley Bernard, Otho Duval and John Howard ; township clerk, S. B. Piper; township treasurer, F. L. Harrison; township justices,—Joseph W. Chappell, James A. White and W. F. Outland.

THE CITY OF BARNESVILLE.

Barnesville is the only city in the township, and, in fact, is the foremost city in the western section of the county. Built at an elevation of 1,265 feet above sea level, the air is salubrious and the surrounding country is attractive and pleasing. The business streets are well paved, and bordered by many modern business blocks, and the residence districts are veritable gardens.

The population of the city at the loth census was 3,721, viz.: First Ward, I,006; Second Ward, 940; Third Ward, 845; Fourth Ward, 930.

Since the census was taken, however, it is estimated that upwards of 500 new residents have come to the city and are employed in the new Eastern Ohio Glass Company's works and other new industries, so that it would be safe to place the population in 1902 at upwards of 4,000.

The city was incorporated as a village by an act of the General Assembly in 1835 and 1836, and its first mayor was Isaac Barnes, a son of the founder of the town.

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A SKETCH OF THE FOUNDER.

James Barnes, the founder of Barnesville, was a notable man. Like the majority of the early settlers, Mr. Barnes was a member of the Society of Friends, who emigrated from the South in 1803, locating at St. Clairsville.

In 1812 he removed to Barnesville, where he had previously entered large tracts of land, then entirely in forest. In 1806 he associated himself with Rev. James Rounds in the tanning business, and in 1808 he laid out the town, reserving one block on Chestnut street, fronting on Main and Church streets, for his family.

Mr. Barnes was active and enterprising in advancing the business interests of the community, and was personally engaged in clearing lands, planting orchards, cultivating farms, buying and clarifying ginseng, shipping as high as 3,000 pounds of the root in a single year.

In 1814 he organized companies for building flour mills, woolen mills and sawmills, and in 1823-26 he engaged in the tobacco trade very extensively and built an immense packing house on the site of the old Presbyterian Church.

While Mr. Barnes was engaged in multifarious pursuits, he was never nervous or confused, but always calm and deliberate.

In personal appearance he was tall and portly, and always attired in the simple garb of the Quaker.

He was generous to a fault, and ever helpful to the poor. While in the pursuit of the tobacco business, he sustained heavy losses, from 1828-38, from which he never recovered.

In an effort to regain his lost fortunes, his overtaxed body and brain collapsed, and he dropped dead in the mountains of Pennsylvania, while returning to his home.

MUNICIPAL OFFICERS.

The municipal officers for 1902 are : Mayor, J. A. White : solicitor, Hon. C. J. Howard ; marshal, C. E. Fogle; clerk, E. W. Wilkies; and treasurer, J. W. Nichols. The membersof the Council are: First Ward, Elmer J. Hutchison, B. C. Patterson; Second Ward, Dr. William L. Judkins, Wheat Bell; Third Ward, J. J. Kirk, Elmer Galloway ; Fourth Ward, William Hilles, William H. Barlow.

THE POST OFFICE.

The first post office in Barnesville was established in 1810 with William Philpot as postmaster, a position he held for 20 years. Benjamin H. McCall succeeded him and held the position until his death in 1835, when Col. Benjamin McCall was appointed his successor, a position he retained until his election for Senator in 1845, when Joseph Fry was appointed to succeed him, a position he held for four years, when he was removed and James R. Laws was appointed. Two years later Mr. Laws resigned, and Edward D. Barnes was appointed.

Upon the change of administration in 1853, Mr. Barnes resigned, and Colonel McCall was again appointed, a position he held until 1861, when he was removed, and John H. Piper was appointed in his place. Mr. Piper was removed, and John W. Hays succeeded him. Five years later Mr. Hays was removed and Col. John Milton Lewis received the appointment, a position he held until 1875, when he was succeeded by Samuel B. Piper, who was succeeded in turn by J. W. Hingley in 1886. Mr. Hingley was followed by W. H. Anderson in 1890, and Hamilton Eaton succeeded Anderson in 1894. Capt. Samuel Hilles was next in order in 1898. The present incumbent, Thomas G. Moore, took charge in 1900.

THE MANUFACTORIES.

Barnesville being an inland city, her facilities for the establishment of mining and manufacturing industries are not equal to those offered by the cities along the river front. Nevertheless, her factories and mills are numerous, and are not surpassed by any in the county.

The oldest industrial establishment in the city is the Watt foundry and car factory, which was established by Joseph and James H.

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Watt in 1862. A year later, because of the addition of two brothers, Stewart and John W. Watt, the firm name was changed to James H. Watt & Brothers. At this time a sawmill was successfully operated in connection with the foundry.

In 1878 the first mining car wheel patent was taken out, which was the joint production of James H. and Stewart Watt. This was further improved by another patent in 1880 and numerous patents since.

The car wheel industry was so successfully conducted that the company began the manufacture of the cars complete, and on January 1, 1882, the company was organized as a joint stock company, under the name of the Watt Mining Car Wheel Company, with a capital of $53,000. Its first officers were James H. Watt, president; E. J. Gantz, vice-president; R. Ross Watt, secretary; and Stewart Watt, .superintendent.

This industry is the only one of the kind in the State, and one of the largest in the world. Its cars and car wheels are shipped to all nations. The number of men at present employed is 135, and additions to the foundry are in course of construction.

The present officers are R. Ross Watt, president and general manager; John W. Watt, vice-president and treasurer; P. H. Laughlin, secretary; and Stewart Watt, superintendent. Much of the success of this great industry is due to the energy, inventive genius and business ability of the late James H. Watt.

The next industry in the order of time is that conducted by the Barnesville Window Glass Company, which was organized and chartered in April, 1883, with a capital stock of $60,000, $59,000 of which is paid in. This was the first window glass factory in the State. The original board of directors was thus constituted : C. J. Buchanan, J. W. Bradfield, G. E. Bradfield, R. T. Chaney, James H. Watt, Arthur Rogers, John Milton Lewis. The first officers were : T. J. Buchanan, president ; John Milton Lewis, secretary; and J. L. Jordan, manager.

When the factory is in full blast, it operatestwo furnaces—one of eight pots and one of ten pots—and gives employment to 120 hands. The average length of the blast year is nine months, and the factory has never been entirely closed down, except during the depression of 1893-94. The output of the factory since its organization has been 900,000 boxes, valued at $2,500,000. The present board of directors is constituted as follows : J. W. Bradfield, A. Rogers, G .E. Bradfield, F. M. Melton, R. H. Piper, R. Ross Watt, John Milton Lewis and the present officers are : J. W. Bradfield, president; John Milton Lewis, secretary; and W. D. Jordan, manager. Colonel Lewis has held the position of secretary for nearly 20 consecutive years.

The Eastern Ohio Glass Company was organized July 21, 1899, with a paid up capital of $96,800. The charter members were Josiah W. Doudna, Arthur Rogers, George E. Hunt, Clarkson H. McKeever, David McVey, Charles Livesey, Thomas J. Buchanan, J. W. Bradfield, Otho P. Norris and William E. Emerson.

When running full, the mill employs 215 men and produces 575 boxes of glass daily. The present officers are: Arthur Rogers, president; J. W. Doudna, secretary; T. J. Buchanan, vice-president ; and the directors are : W. E. Emerson, G. E. Hunt, J. W. Bradfield and Charles Livesey.

The Barnesville Shoe Factory was organized in July, 1900, with a capital of $80,000, which has since been increased to $100,000. It occupies a large four-story brick factory, and gives employment to 150 hands. It is manufacturing at this time 1,200 pairs of shoes daily, but has a capacity for making 2,500 pairs. The factory is operated by natural gas and illuminated by electric lights and is operated by all modern appliances. Its officers are : H. O. Barber, president ; R. D. Hood, treasurer; P. C. Patterson, secretary; C. F. Hays, superintendent and manager.

There are two planing mills in operation. One conducted by Hague & Woodward for the manufacture of sash, doors, etc., was established in 1891 and employs about 20 hands.

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The Rogers planing mill, which has been in operation for many years, also manufactures all kinds of builders' materials. This establishment also employs between 20 and 30 hands.

There are also two box factories. One conducted by E. J. Hutchison, for the manufacture of boxes exclusively, gives employment to 20 hands, with an annual output amounting to $5,000. After many changes since the organization, the factory is now in successful operation.

The Barlow box and crate factory for the manufacture of strawberry crates, fruit and vegetable baskets, was established by Barlow Brothers in 1884, but is now operated by James W. Wise and Samuel W. Dewees. They employ 35 hands through the summer, but a less number during the winter. Their wares are shipped to all parts of the country.

The Hanlon paper factory is one of the new enterprises for the manufacture of paper. The mill is just completed and has entered upon a career of prosperity. The factory is furnished with every modern appliance for the manufacture of paper and the firm is conducted by Hanlon Brothers, formerly publishers of The Republican.

The Barnesville Gas & Electric Light Company has a capital of $28,000, and supplies the municipality and all citizens with the gas and electricity used for illuminating purposes. Its officers are : J. W. Bradfield, president and treasurer ; Fred Hunt, secretary ; and H. D. Timmons, superintendent.

There are likewise in operation the Hilles flour mill and the city flour mill conducted by Williams & Robitzer; the Crescent laundry, conducted by Futhey Brothers, and two cigar factories,—one conducted by Barlow & Company, for the extensive manufacture of cigars, and the other enterprise managed by Heed & Company. There is also a large canning factory now in full operation and conducted by Flaccus Brothers, of Wheeling.

THE BANKS.

The First National Bank of Barnesville was organized February 11, 1865, with a capital of $100,000. John Bradfield was elected president, and William C. Wilson was chosen as cashier. The following is the list of the first directors : John Bradfield, Francis Davis, John B. Ward, G. M. Jones, Asa Garretson and J. W. Frasier. February 12, 1866, John F. Davis was elected cashier, Mr. Wilson having resigned on account of ill health. On April 3, 1874, John F. Davis resigned as cashier, and E. P. Lee was appointed to fill this vacancy. On June 7, 1875, E. P. Lee resigned as cashier and G. E. Bradfield was elected to fill the position. On June 7, 1875, John Bradfield resigned as president, and Francis Davis was elected to fill the vacancy. On January 14, 1885. Asa Garreton was elected president. On January 13, 1891, John Milton Lewis was elected president.

The capital of the bank is $i00,000 in U. S. bonds, with a surplus of $50,000. The following are the officers in 1902: John Milton Lewis, president; G. E. Bradfield, cashier; directors,—Elwood Phillips, B. F. Bowen, R. H. Piper, T. S. Bradfield, R. H. Howard and Charles P. Dobbins.

The People's National Bank was organized in 1883 with a capital stock of $100,000. The officers at organization were : Dr. J. S. Ely, president; G. E. Hilles, vice-president; and A. E. Dent, cashier.

The directors of the bank at the time of organization were: J. A. Judkins, John K. Reed, J. W. Judkins, J. W. Laughlin, M. S. Wilson, W. Thornberry, Thomas Parker, Isaac Beardmore. The bank has a surplus of $25,000, and there are 100 responsible stockholders. The officers for 1902 are: Dr. J. S. Ely, president; T. J. Buchanan, vice-president ; and Otho P. Norris, cashier. The directors are J. W. Doudna, J. B. Giffen, J. A. Judkins, J. D. McKeever, John K. Reed and J. W. Judkins.

DR. CAROLUS JUDKINS.

In the practice of medicine, as of law, the first representatives of the profession came from the Southern States. Dr. Carolus Judkins was a member of the Society of Friends,

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and engaged in the practice of medicine in Virginia. But his detestation of slavery impelled him to seek a home in Ohio. In 1810 he came to Barnesville and entered upon a career as a physician and surgeon that won him a widespread reputation.

The circuit of his practice extended over a radius of 20 miles, in the pursuit of which he traveled over dangerous bridlepaths and through dense forests, carrying his medical case in his saddle bags.

In 1820 Dr. Judkins associated with him Dr. James Stanton, the father of the eminent Secretary of War. Subsequently his two sons, Joel and Nicholas, became associated with him in practice. The children and grandchildren of this illustrious physician have been and are today prominent and successful in the practice of medicine in Barnesville.

HON. JOHN DAVENPORT

Was one of the most notable men of Barnesville. As merchant, statesman and jurist, he was foremost in his day and generation.

Migrating from the Valley of Virginia in 1818, Mr. Davenport entered upon a successful business career in Barnesville. Eight years later he entered the field of politics, and was elected to Congress, where he became a warm personal and political friend of Henry Clay. In 1830 he was elected to the General Assembly of Ohio, where his vigilance in the joint convention corrected an error that secured the election of Hon. Thomas Ewing as United States Senator. The following year the Legislature elected Mr. Davenport associate judge for Belmont County for the full term. Notwithstanding his activity in county and State affairs, Mr. Davenport was also intensely energetic in the cause of education and religion. He was a pillar in the Methodist Episcopal Church and the first superintendent of the first Sabbath-school in the township.

THE CHURCHES.

The First .Methodist Episcopal Church.—While the first settlers of Warren townshipwere Friends and the first church erected in the township was a Friends' Meeting House, the first resident of Barnesville was a Methodist preacher, Rev. James Rounds. The first religious services held in the village were "Methodists' Meetings," conducted by this pioneer preacher in his humble log home at the corner of what are now Main and Chestnut streets.

These meetings continued until 1810, when the first Methodist log church was erected and dedicated to the service of God. In the construction of this old church, the members and friends contributed the hewn logs and two great stone chimneys were built upon the outside of the building with immense fireplaces within. The seats were slabs without backs, and the walls were ceiled and a little circular pulpit stood between the great open fireplaces.

In this humble place of worship Methodism was planted and it grew with such rapidity that in 1824 the head of every family in the town but five were members of the church.

In this pioneer church the first wedding in the village was celebrated,—that of Robert Mills to Patience Shaw, which was performed by Rev. James Rounds.

Some of the prominent Methodists of those pioneer days were : William Philpot, a local preacher named Rev. Avery West, Robert Ogg, Philip Dyer, Archibald Cole, William Harper, Jacob Snyder, Nathan Riley and Rev. Z. Barnes.

Between 1812 and 1820 many valuable additions were made to the church. Prominent among these were Panter Laws; Benjamin H. McCall, father of Colonel McCall; Hon. John Davenport, the prominent statesman and jurist heretofore referred to; John Gibson, the wealthy merchant, who contributed lavishly to the support of this feeble church; Nathan John. a noted character and an intense Methodist of the old school, who conducted the Sabbath-school .through a session of three hours without any intermission ; John Brown ; Charles Scurr, John Price, who, as heretofore noted, was the local preacher who introduced the cultivation of tobacco into Eastern Ohio

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(today Methodist preachers are prohibited from the use of tobacco) ; William Price, John Reed and William Hill.

In 1820 the little log meeting house was too small to hold the large congregation and a more commodious brick church was erected on the same site. In the winter of 1835-36 a revival was conducted during the ministry of Rev. Mr. Waddell, the celebrated orator of whom a writer has said, "So powerful was his oratory upon the people that the whole congregation seemed a mass of mourners and nothing was heard but prayers and shouts and exclamations of praise." Two hundred probationers were received during the revival, which spread to every Methodist society within a radius of 20 or 30 miles. Another memorable revival was held in 1848, conducted by Revs. Best, Flowers and Wolf. The continued increase in membership necessitated the erection of a larger church. So in 1856 a new and capacious brick church, with a seating capacity of 256, was erected. The cost of this structure was $4,000. This church was built during the ministry of Rev. John Coil.

Thirty-three years later when the membership had reached 700 the corner stone of the present beautiful and costly church edifice was laid with most impressive ceremonies. Upon September 28, 1890, this church was dedicated to the service of God by Bishops Thoburn and Joyce. The cost of this new church complete was $25,935.83. The pastor of the church during the erection of the building was Rev. C. E. Manchester. The membership of the church today is upwards of 950. The pastor in charge is Dr. A. J. Hiatt, and the Sabbath-school superintendent is T. J. Rogers. The trustees are Charles P. Dobbins, T. G. Wilson, J. W. Judkins, Ross Dent, C. H. McKeener, E. P. Lee, E. E. Coburn, J. W. Doudna and A. P. Hicks. The parsonage trustees are: G. E. Hunt, B. C. Patterson, Joseph Knox, J. R. Price, A. T. Warrick, Joseph Leap, F. R. Yocum, W. E. Sharp and S. E. Hague. The stewards are : J. S. Howard, J. W. Cassells, J. A. White,, J. L. Woodward, J. W. Fowler, J. W. Hingley, J. A. Judkins, E. L. Cunnard, E. C. Morbon, B. P. Reed, W. S. Hobbs, Abel Williams and D. O. Shepherd.

The Presbyterian Church.—The early history of Presbyterianism in Barnesville is unique, in that a commodious house of worship was erected before an organization had been formed. Prior to 1840 Mr. and Mrs. James McLeish were the only Presbyterians in the community. The number gradually increased until in 1857 they felt themselves strong enough to build a church. A committee was selected, consisting of David McCartney, John Bradfield, Dr. Hoover, H. R. Brown and William Alders. They decided to raise $1,600. The amount was subscribed in one day and the work of construction began the same fall. The total cost of the property when completed was $2,000.

The organization of the church took place January 15, in 1859, with 23 members, and was supplied with preaching by the presbytery until June, 1862, when Rev. William R. Kirkwood was installed pastor. He was followed by Rev. J. P. Caldwell in 1866; Rev. Charles H. McClelland in 1871 ; Rev. D. H. Lafferty in 1875 ; Rev. Alexander St. Clair in 1877; Rev. W. E. Mack in 1879; Rev. Samuel H. Wallace in 1881 ; Rev. J. L. Reed in 1886; Rev. J. A. Donahey in 1891; Rev. Allan Krichbaum in 1893; and the present pastor, Rev. E. A. Colley, in December of 1899.

The eldership has been as follows : William Alders and John George, elected in 1859; R. E. Frasier, in 1862; Joseph Harper, in 1864; J. W. Kennon, in 1865; Isaac T. Woods, in 1869; Daniel J. Speer and James Jeffrey, in 1874; Dr. W. J. McCalvin, G. W. Sheppard and J. W. Laughlin, in 1881 ; Dr. A. Trimmer, J. M. Yarnell and William Tidball, in 1887; Peter Giffen, D. C. Kennon, C. J. Howard, Dr. G. W. Riddile and Samuel Hilles, in 1892; J. S. Harrison, Arthur Rogers and Isaac R. Lane, in 1898.

The congregation has grown steadily until now, in 1902, it numbers 325 members. It has a well organized Sabbath-school, with Hon. C. J. Howard as superintendent; a Junior Christian Endeavor Society, a Westminster

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League of 100 members, and two ladies' societies,—the Missionary and the Christian Circle.

The present house of worship, now approaching completion, is a stone structure, with all modern conveniences, costing $30,000. Work was begun on it in August of 1901.

Dr. Doddridge, an eminent Episcopalian divine of the pioneer period, speaking of the work of the primitive churches, says :

"To the Presbyterians alone we are indebted for almost the whole of our literature.

"They began their labors at an early period in the settlement of our country and have extended their ecclesiastical and educational establishments so as to keep pace with the extension of our population—with a Godly care which does them honor.

"And were it not for the herculean labors of the Methodist Society many of our remote settlements would have been at this day almost in a state of barbarism.

"There is scarcely a single settlement in the whole extent of the Western Country which has not been blessed with the ministry of this people—and to this ministry the public morality and piety are immensely indebted."

The African Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1873. Its first pastor was Rev. C. E. Green, who was an itinerant, and the first elder was Rev. Mr. Thompson. At the time of organization, there was a membership of 25. A machine shop on South street, near the railroad, was fitted up for a church at a cost of $1,100.

The pastor serving the congregation in 1902 is Rev. G. J. Cotton, and the official board is as follows: Stewards,—William King, Joseph Wilson, James Earley, F. H. Jackson, Prof. B. O. McMichael, Jessie Lynn and Addison Lee; trustees, Robert Cowen, Ross Cowen, F. H. Jackson, B. O. McMichael and Thomas Simmons; class leaders,—William King and Albert Shipp. The membership of the church at present is 71.

THE SCHOOLS.

The first public school in Barnesville wasopened in the fall of 1828 by Enoch Thomas. Before this date, subscription schools had been taught by Messrs. McKay, Folke and Brook.

For 20 years succeeding 1830, "The Little Brick School House" was the seat of learning for Barnesville youth. In 1854 the people voted to erect a union school house of five rooms.

The first superintendent was I. T. Woods. Following him were J. A. McEwen, W. H. Kennon, et al. The list, beginning in 1873, is as follows :

J. M. Yarnell 1873—1882

H. L. Peck 1882—1887

C. S. Richardson 1887—1888

Arthur Powell 1888—1890

Joseph Rea 1890—1892

E. M. Van Cleve 1892—1899

S. H. Layton 1899—1901

C. E. Shimp 1901—1902

L. E. York 1902-

Since 1870 the following have been presidents of the Board of Education : J. S. Bracken, R. C. Graves, A. C. Hague, S. B. Piper, E. J. Gantz, William Hilles, C. J. Howard. Dr. J. A. Judkins, G. E. Hunt, J. S. Harrison, Otho P. Norris, Charles P. Dobbins.

The members of the Board at present are : Charles P. Dobbins, president; J. W. Wellons, clerk ; Otho P. Norris, R. H. Howard, J. A. White and S. B. Piper.

The library of 1,200 volumes is well stocked with choice literature, representing the best in poetry, biography, history, travel, fiction and science.

SECRET SOCIETIES.

Friendship Lodge, No. 89, F. & A. M.—About the year 1826 a few Masons of Barnesville and vicinity began to agitate the question of organizing a lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in this place. A room was procured on the southeast corner of Main and Arch streets, now owned by William Kinney, a part of said building being occupied as a grocery. Samuel P. Hunt, a clerk in Davenport's store, was appointed to prepare the necessary papers and draw up a petition to the Grand Master of the State, praying for a dispensation authorizing the establishment of a lodge. The peti-

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tion was signed by the following Master Masons, viz.: William Clark, Zadoc Davis, Charles Scurr and John Hance, of Barnesville; James Gilliland and Henry Tillett, of Fairview; and William Mason, Cornelius Okey, Daniel O'Connor and Levi Johnson, of Monroe County, Ohio. A recommendation from Belmont Lodge, No. 16, F. & A .M., of St. Clairsville, Ohio, was also secured. The petition, with all the accompanying papers and the fee of $40, was enclosed and forwarded to Samuel Wheeler, the Grand Master of the State. After waiting a reasonable time, he was written to, and in due time an answer was received from him in which he stated that he had not received the said petition nor the enclosed fee of $40. This was quite a serious matter for the brethren at that day, but having made up their minds that a lodge was needed in Barnesville, they immediately proceeded to prepare the papers a second time. Belmont Lodge, No. 16, furnished another recommendation. To insure the safe conveyance of the fee of $40 when sent the second time, they divided or cut two $20 bills into equal parts and enclosed two of these parts with the petition to the Grand Master. On hearing from him that he had received the application and remittance, they enclosed the remaining parts of the. bills in a second communication.

Owing to the anti-Masonic excitement that prevailed throughout the State, they were doomed to a further disappointment. The Grand Master, instead of forwarding the dispensation for a new lodge, wrote them that on account of the feeling that was arising against the order, he would prefer not to grant the prayer of the petitioners, but would refer the matter to the Grand Lodge at its next annual communication. The time fixed for this meeting was "the second Monday of January, 1827."

At the fall election of the year 1826, the people of Belmont County elected John Davenport as State Senator. A request was made of the Master of Belmont Lodge, No. 16, Mr. Carothers, that he would give his proxy to Senator Davenport that he might sit as a member of the Grand Lodge and be in position to look after the interests of the petitioners for a new lodge. This request was readily granted by Mr. Carothers, and he at once forwarded his proxy to Senator Davenport at Columbus, Ohio. The petitioners for the new lodge forwarded to Senator Davenport an order on the Grand Master, asking him to hand over to Senator Davenport all the papers referring to the matter. On January 8, 1827, Senator Davenport, in the Grand Lodge, presented the petition from sundry Masons in the county of Belmont, praying for a dispensation to hold a lodge in Barnesville, under the name of Friendship Lodge, which petition was referred to the committee on charters and dispensations. On January 9, 1827, Mr. Sherman, from the said committee, reported that they were of the opinion that it was expedient to grant the petitioners a dispensation as by them prayed for. The Grand Lodge thereupon passed a resolution that a dispensation be granted for the establishment of Friendship Lodge in Barnesville, Ohio.

On February 16th Benjamin Bloomfield, who was the first master of Friendship Lodge, was notified that Grand Master John M. Goodnow would visit Barnesville on or about February 27, 1827, for the purpose of instituting the new lodge and the latter asked that all the necessary arrangements be made for that purpose. He stated that owing to the bad roads it would take him about two days to reach the place, and that he would come by the way of St. Clairsville and bring the jewels of Belmont Lodge, No. 16, F. & A. M., along with him and as many of the brethren as could be persuaded to come from there to assist in the ceremonies of instituting the new lodge. An invitation was sent to Cambridge Lodge, No. 66, to come on that occasion. On the day appointed Grand Master Goodnow, with six or eight of the brethren, came in from the west. At an early hour in the evening, the brethren repaired to their lodge room, where Grand Master Goodnow, with the assistance of the visiting brethren, instituted Friendship Lodge, with Benjamin Bloomfield as W. M.; Samuel

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P. Hunt, as S. W.; Zadoc Davis, as J. W.; John McCune, as treasurer; Benjamin McCall, as secretary; John Hance, as S. D.; Charles Scurr, as J. D.; and Nathan Riley, as tyler, with full power to initiate, pass and raise.

About January 1, 1828, a copy of the proceedings of the new lodge were drawn off the minutes and properly attested and forwarded to William B. Hubbard, delegate from Belmont Lodge, No. 16, to the Grand Lodge of Ohio. On January 14, 1828, the papers were referred to the committee on charters and dispensations, and on January 15, 1828, the chairman of said committee, Mr. Fielding, reported that the by-laws and proceedings of Friendship Lodge being in perfect accordance with the principles of Freemasonry, etc., they would recommend that a charter be granted, which report was adopted and a charter issued to Friendship Lodge, No. 89, under date of January 15, 1828. For some four or five years the lodge maintained itself fairly well up to the year 1833, when the excitement that had arisen against Freemasonry became so strong that the lodge found itself unable to properly sustain itself. For various causes many of the brethren absented themselves from the meetings of the lodge, and, hence, failed in giving it the necessary support. After considerable discussion, a motion was made at one of the stated communications, that the lodge would surrender its charter and cease meeting as a lodge. The motion was carried, and Friendship Lodge, No. 89, was stricken from the rolls of the Grand Lodge of Ohio. For a period of about eight years, Friendship Lodge was dormant, and, during this time the members became so scattered over the country that only a few of the faithful ones were left in the town. Among those who were left, we refer to Robert Happer, Robert Hodgen, John McCune, Vachel Barnes, Nathan Riley, John Koontz, J. W. Harris, John Hance, Kelion Hager and Col. B. McCall, also T. C. Parker, late of Wheeling, West Virginia. These brethren were in the habit of meeting occasionally as a lodge of instruction. It was during the progress of one of these meetings held in October, 1842, that John A. Weyer of Moriah Lodge, No. 105, while on his way to Grand Lodge, stopped off in Barnesville to remain over night. Inquiring for Col. Benjamin McCall, he was informed by Mrs. McCall that he was attending a lodge meeting and directed him to go to a certain room in town, where he would no doubt find him and a few of the brethren assembled in the interests of Freemasonry. Repairing to the designated place, he found the brethren assembled and he was accorded a pleasant reception. After spending a good portion of the night in consulting with each other in regard to the principles and tenets of the order, of which he was a most zealous adherent, the brethren agreed that application might be made at this meeting of the Grand Lodge for the return of the old charter, under which they might again reorganize Friendship Lodge, No. 89, and have the same again placed on the roll of Masonic lodges of the . State of Ohio. During one of the sessions of the Grand Lodge, Mr. Weyer arose and made a statement of the visit he had just made with the brethren in Barnesville. He very feelingly referred to the faithful brethren, whom he had the pleasure of meeting in that place and how earnestly they had besought him to ask the Grand Lodge to restore to them the old charter. He stated that during all these years a few of the faithful at Barnesville had assembled together from time to time and kept alive their knowledge of the principles and ritual of Freemasonry, and closed his remarks by making a motion that the charter of Friendship Lodge, No. 89, be restored to the brethren at that place that they might again organize and do the work of a Masonic lodge. It is needless to say that the . motion was passed amidst the greatest excitement. A dispensation was issued by Grand Master W. J. Reese, directing the brethren to meet and elect officers and prepare for work. He also issued his proxy to Wilmeth Jones, of Belmont Lodge, No. 16, F. & A. M., of St. Clairsville, Ohio, authorizing him to install the officers-elect of Friendship Lodge, which was properly done in due form. On September 6, 1843, Col. Benjamin McCall was elected as del-

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egate to the Grand Lodge of Ohio. The old charter not having been found, it was proposed to issue a duplicate, but to this Colonel McCall would not agree. While at the Grand Lodge, he spent several hours in the basement of the Capitol building, searching among the old records for the original charter and just when he began to feel that he must give up the search, he found it, and it was brought home on his return. On November 1, 1843 at a stated communication of Friendship Lodge he made a report of the visit he had made to the Grand Lodge and concluded by presenting to the brethren the old original charter under which the lodge was first organized. It is said that the brethren were so rejoiced on its reception that the master of the lodge could scarcely keep them within proper bounds during the evening. n account of its history, the brethren who received it at that time, as well as the brethren who hold it in their keeping today, all have a high regard for this old charter. Another reason that makes it of so much interest to the brethren is the fact that it is signed by one of Ohio's most illustrious and distinguished sons, Hon. Thomas Corwin, who was the acting Grand Master during the sessions of the Grand Lodge that were held in the year 1828. It has been hanging in a prominent place on the walls of the lodge room since that time, and so far as may be known, it will hang there for many years to come. It is beginning to look old and faded, and has suffered some mutilation, but the brethren would not part with it under any consideration.

About the year 1863 the lodge and chapter purchased what was known as the old "Academy Building" on East Main street, and after making some necessary repairs, the Masonic bodies of Barnesville at once moved into it, where they remained for many years. Finally a movement was made looking toward enlarging the boundaries of Masonry in Barnesville. A better location was desired and more room was needed. Having by economical management secured a surplus fund of some $3,000 to $4,000, the lodge decided that a new location should be secured. A committee, consisting of James H. Watt, J. W. Hingley, T. E. Frasier, J. H. Reed, J. A. Howard and W. H. Anderson for the lodge and James H. Watt, J. W. Hingley, J. H. Reed and A. E. Dent for the chapter, was appointed by each of these bodies to select and recommend a property that could be purchased. In due time an opportunity appeared for the purchase of a lot on the south side of Main street, which belonged to the estate of John H. Piper. After some discussion of the matter, this lot was finally secured. A large three-story stone and brick building was erected in 1890-91, arranged with a view to accommodate the Masonic bodies of Barnesville for years to come. The first floor is occupied as a shoe store by John W. Cassells. The second story was built for a banqueting room, with kitchen and pantries attached, and the third floor is occupied as lodge and chapter rooms, with tyler's room and preparation room adjoining. The new building was dedicated to Masonry on June 24, 1891, by representatives of the Grand Lodge. Immediately thereafter the lodge and chapter moved in, and since then have enjoyed the advantages of a new, commodious and permanent home. Both these orders are growing rapidly and are now permanently established in Barnesville, Ohio. The number of members in Friendship Lodge, No. 89, is 133, and of the chapter, 84.

The officers of Friendship Lodge at present are as follows : J. C. Mayhew, W. M.; A. W. Laughlin. S. W.; Dr. F. P. Cook, J. W.; Palmer H. Laughlin, S. D. ; C. M. Robitzer, J. D.; William E. Emerson, treasurer; Dr. G. H. Kemp, secretary ; and R. M. Corbin, tyler. (The writer of the above is largely indebted to records, etc., make by Col. Benjamin McCall, who was secretary of the Masonic bodies of this place for many years before his decease.)

Barnesville Lodge, No. 185, I. O. O. F., was instituted June 13, 1851. The charter members were: Thomas C. Parker, Sr., Jacob H. Parker, Frank Davis, Joseph Eisman and William G. Laws.

The present officers are : Noble grand, Charles Phillips ; vice grand, Clyde Plumly ;

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secretary, Francis Moore; financial secretary, J. M. Cassells; treasurer, Alex Moore; trustees,—J. E. McDonald, L. B. Smith and J. R. Price. The members of this lodge number 190.

There is also an encampment of Odd Fellows, with G. T. Nuzum as scribe. This is also in flourishing condition.

Warren Lodge, No. 76, K. of P., is one of the strongest secret organizations in Warren township. It had a membership of 160 in October, 1902. W. D. Lyle is keeper of the records, and the value of the lodge furnishings and money on hand amount in the aggregate to $5,395.57. This lodge meets every Friday evening.

ROBERT HILLES POST, G. A. R.

Robert Hilles Post, No. 220, G. A. R., was organized at Barnesville, Ohio, May 2, 1882, with 40 charter members. The following officers were elected : E. T. Petty, post commander; G. E. Hilles, senior vice commander; H. S. Barnes, junior vice commander ; Allen Floyd, quartermaster; S. B. Piper, officer of the day; R. C. Graves, adjutant; H. W. Baker, chaplain and G. S. Wellons, surgeon. The membership increased rapidly for 10 years—reaching in the aggregate near 200, but in the last 10 years the decrease has been equally rapid. At this time, having lived upward of 20 years, the membership is reduced to about 40—the original number. This decline is not, however, due entirely to loss by deaths. Many of the veterans have become tired of the meetings and dropped out through lack of interest.

Then the next 10 years shall have passed, there will be few, if any, of the charter members of Robert Hilles Post left to decorate the graves of their fallen comrades.

Lieut. Robert Hilles, from whom the post takes its name, enlisted at Barnesville, Ohio, August, 1862 and was commissioned 1st lieutenant of Company B, 126th Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was mortally wounded in a charge on the enemy's works on the 6th of May, 1864, in the battle of the Wilderness. He was in command of the company, gallantlyleading his men when the fatal bullet struck him: He died May 11th at Fredericksburg, Virginia, and sleeps today in an unknown grave, as do thousands of his comrades.

On Fame's eternal camping ground, Their silent tents are spread,

While glory guards with solemn round The bivouac of the Dead.

THE PRESS.

The first paper published in Barnesville was a little four page periodical issued by the students of Davenport and Addler's Classical Institute and was published through the years 1856-57. However, it was printed at Zanesville and published by one of the societies. It was first called The Gleaner, with Mrs. Talbot and Walton as editors.

In 1857 The Intelligencer was issued by E. R. Bartleson & Son, afterward the publishers of The Wheeling Intelligencer. It was a 24-column paper, devoted mainly to local news, but did not represent any political party. In a short time the office was sold to George McClelland and Thomas Nichols, who continued its publication for a year.

The Barnesville Enterprise.—On the 28th of May, 1866, the first number of The Barnesville Enterprise, a seven-column folio, was published by George McClelland. In October, 1870, the paper was enlarged to 28 columns. In January, 1875, it was changed to a six-column, eight-page paper, and Samuel Price became a partner for two years. In 1888, on the death of Mr. McClelland, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Lee became the owners and have since conducted it. The Enterprise was one of the first weekly papers in Ohio to make a feature of local and country correspondence and it rapidly went to the front rank of weekly papers in this section, a position it has ever since held. Its circulation today is 2,200.

The Barnesville Republican.—The first number of The Barnesville Republican was issued June 14, 1883, the publishers being Hanlon Brothers' Paper Company, composed of T. T. Hanlon and two sons, William W. and Oliver O. Hanlon. William W. Hanlon

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was editor and manager and the success of the paper from the start was due to his indefatigable efforts. He continued in charge until November 8, 1897, when the paper was sold to Charles C. Carroll of St. Clairsville, a talented and finely educated young man who conducted the publication with marked success. He was tendered a government position in Washington and decided to accept selling, The Republican. on July 21, 1899, to H. E. Dement, who continues in charge. Mr. Dement had been connected with the paper as assistant editor and foreman since 1900, and is thoroughly familiar with the duties of his office.

While uncompromisingly Republican in principles, The Republican is conservative in the policy of the party and never gives offense to a political opponent by harsh or bitter criticisms.

In the advocacy of public improvements it has been unremitting and, though public spirited and enterprising, the editor earnestly advocates reform in public management and retrenchment in public expenditures.

THE CEMETERIES

There are two cemetery associations in Barnesville. The first that we shall mention is the Green Mountain Cemetery Association which was formed May 5, 1858, with Colson Davenport, Adam Bentz, Stephen Wilson, John H. Morrow and H. T. Barnes as its trustees. This cemetery has always been known as "Knob Field" because of its high elevation. It occupies eight acres of land and contains 168 lots.

The South Cemetery was organized March 4, 1858, and was originally known as the Barnesville Cemetery Association. The grounds were purchased May 8, 1858, and contained 10 acres and were dedicated to cemetery purposes the same year by Rev. James Henderson. The first officers were as follows : Trustees, William A. Talbot, R. Happer, David McCartney, William Barnes, John Bradfield; treasurer, B. Davenport; secretary, J. W. Warfield ; superintendent, J. S. Evans. The number of lots sold is 220. The present officers are : Dr. J. A. Judkins, president ; John S. Howard, secretary ; John W. Bradfield, treasurer; Robert Evans and H. R. Brown.

THE BELMONT COUNTY CHILDREN'S HOME

is established at Tacoma, in Warren township, and occupies a beautiful site commanding a widespread view of the loveliest hill country in the State. The main building is four stories high, surmounted by a cupola, and with two wings, each three stories high. The whole is a modern brick structure of handsome architectural design, with a frontage of 164 feet, and a depth of to feet. It contains 63 rooms and is lighted with electricity and heated with steam. The farm upon which it is located contains 63 acres. The Home was established in 1880 for the physical, mental and moral training of indigent children, until suitable homes could be provided for them. At the earnest appeal of Isaac Holloway, David Conrow, and 82 others, the county commissioners submitted the whole question of establishing a Children's Home to the people of the county, and the proposition carried by a majority of 2,319.

Under the supervision of Architect J. W. Yost, the building was constructed. The farm upon which the Home is located cost $5,800, and the building cost $35,000; the whole making a total cost of $40,800.

The first trustees were Francis Davis, Joseph Green, J. W. Laughlin, J. W. Hingley, William Millison, David Conrow, A. W. Anderson, John S. Howard, Hamilton Eaton, Isaac R. Lane, William R. Piper, George T. Nuzum, Samuel Hillis, James A. Shepherd and Herman Roemer. The first superintendent was Stephen Gressinger who only served a brief two months, when Francis Davis, one of the trustees of the institution, took charge until the appointment of Joseph Green, who served for five years. Peter Giffen followed and was in charge of the institution seven years. N. B. Stewart, the next superintendent in order, served two years,

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when the present incumbent, T. W. Branson, was appointed, who has thus far served seven years up to 1902. The present board of trustees is thus constituted : Jacob Maule, A. Plummer, W. W. Watt, and Dr. G. V. Riddle. The officers are : T. W. Branson, superintendent; R. P. Branson, matron; Deborah Williams, teacher; and Dr. W. L. Judkins, physician.

In addition there are six lady and one gentleman assistants. There were in the Home, March 31, 1902, 33 children, and five were out on trial. Twenty-two had been indentured and adopted, eight returned to parents, and two died, making a total of 70 cared for during the year. The average monthly enrollment of children attending the school was 29. The total expenditure for 1902 amounted to $5,860.92, or a net expense per capita, of $145.36. In addition to the quantity of farm products consumed at the institution, $379 worth were sold from off the farm. The reports of the trustees and county Board of Charities speak very approvingly of the institution.

THE BOARD OF CHARITIES.

In this connection, some mention should be made of the work of this philanthropic body that was organized several years ago for the purpose of visiting and inspecting our charitable institutions and jails in the interest of the health and comfort of the inmates. These humane men and women work without compensation, visiting all the penal and charitable institutions of the county at intervals of six months, examining into the sanitary and moral condition of these institutions with a view of correcting any neglect or mismanagement in these particulars. Some of the members of the Board, who have been most active in the past, were Dr. Ely of Barnesville, Mrs. Rodefer of Bellaire, Mrs. Robert J. Alexander, of St. Clairsville, Dr. Thomas Balph of St. Clairsville, Dr. John W. Wellons of Barnesville, Mrs. Ross J. Alexander, Bridgeport, and Mrs. J. B. Smith, Bellaire.

The present Board consists of William Alexander of Bridgeport, Peter Giffen of Flushing, D. H. Milligan of St. Clairsville, Mrs. Rodefer of Bellaire, Mrs. J. C. Pickering, and Mrs. James McNeice.