Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow Maple-sugar Butter

645 acres. 863 “ 759 " 309 " 373 " 1311 "

9,766 bushels. 27,239 “ 54,152 " 16,915 " 19,588 " 1,574 tons. 11,095 pounds. 47,780 "

Number of school-houses, 10 ; valuation, $6500 ; amount paid teachers, $2189.89 ; number of scholars, 356. Vote for President, 1876: Hayes, 306 ; Tilden, 109. Population in 1870, 1750.   HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. CARLOS EUGENE CURTISS, whose portrait appears in connection with the view of the county infirmary, in another part of this volume, was born in Genesee county, New York, on the first day of June, 1825, and is a son of Ichabod and Selima Camp Curtiss, originally of Middletown, Connecticut, but who removed to Ohio in 1833, and are now deceased,-the father January 17, 1867, and the mother October 9, 1868. The education of Mr. Curtiss was acquired at the schools of Kingsville township, and his occupation has been that of farming, though in the year 1852 he caught the gold fever," and the subsequent five years of his life were passed in the gold-bearing districts of California,-a portion of the time in the mines. He was also for a time partner in a store there, but acquired the greater portion of his wealth in hay speculations in the before-mentioned State. Returning to Ohio, he was elected to the office of superintendent of the county infirmary in 1860, and the fact of his having served in that capacity for eleven years seems pretty conclusive evidence that he is the " right man in the right place." He was elected trustee of Kingsville township in the year 1870, and has served five years in that position. On the 5th day of January, 1859, Mr. Curtiss was united in marriage to Miss Julia Elba, daughter of Allen W. and Betsey Wilder Niles, of Kingsville township, from whom have been born to him the following children : Mary E., the date of whose birth occurred September 5, 1860; Halle N., born November 2, 1869; and Albert D., the baby, who was born on the 12th day of March, 1871. Mr. Curtiss is a firm adherent to the principles inculcated by the Republican party. He is kind and considerate towards those who are under his supervision, and is looked upon by them as a superior representative of the genus homo. MARSHALL WILLIAM WRIGHT, INFIRMARY DIRECTOR, a fine portrait of whom appears in connection with the sketch of the county infirmary, was born on the 27th day of August, 1818, and is a child of Sherman and Fanny Howes Wright, originally of Wilbraham, Hampden county, Massachusetts, but who removed to Ohio and located in the township of Conneaut in the fall of 1811, where they resided until their decease, which occurred-the father's on January 3, 1847, and the mother's January 15, 1872. The education of Mr. Wright was received at a common district school, principally at the school-house on the south ridge in Conneaut. His time was divided between labor in his father's tannery and shoe-shop, and the tilling of the small farm owned by him, until his failure in business in 1848, since which time he has served his township and the county in the discharge of various public trusts. He was first elected a justice of the peace in 1851, and since that date has been an incumbent of that office some thirteen years, and still administers justice to those who are unfortunately compelled to resort to the law to settle their differences. In the year 1853 he was elected to the office of sheriff of Ashtabula County, and served two terms, and in 1868 was elected county commissioner, and continued in office one term of three years; was elected to his present position as infirmary director in the fall of 1877. He has also served as trustee of his township several terms, and for the greater portion of the time since attaining his majority has filled the office of school director. On the 1st of August, 1862, he entered the volunteer service of the United States in the capacity of quartermaster of the One Hundred and Fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry ; served until April, 1864, at which time he was compelled by failing health to reign. In reply to the question, " Were you wounded ?" he answered, Once only, when at home on leave of absence in 1863, by a friend congratulating me on the position I held in the service, which would give me an opportunity to make money." On the 27th day of March, 1844, Esquire Wright was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Wayland, daughter of the Rev. Asa and Sarah Saxton Jacobs, of Conneaut (this county). The children of this marriage are Elizabeth, born February 9, 1845; married Levi T. Scofield, and now resides in Cleveland, Ohio. Lydia, born March 20, 1847 ; married Conrad J. Brown ; residence, Erie, Pennsylvania. Altie, born April 23, 1850; married the Rev. Jeremiah Phillips, Jr., and whose home is now in Kenosha county, Wisconsin. Sherman, the next child, was born September 29, 1854; and Nellie, the last, whose birth occurred on January 8, 1859. The 'squire was from the outset a Liberty-party man, and is, as a matter of course, at this writing a Republican, and believes that one hundred cents should make a dollar. He is a member of Kingsville post, Grand Army of the Republic, and his religious belief is in keeping with the tenets of the Free-Will Baptist church, of which he is a member. We cannot perhaps better close this sketch than by quoting from the notes of the gentleman himself: " Have thus far lived on my own resources; none of my family have as yet been charged with crime, have became a public charge or a member of congress." EDWARD HAMMOND, INFIRMARY DIRECTOR. In connection with the view of the county infirmary is shown a portrait of the gentleman whose name appears at the head of this sketch. Of him we learn that he was the fifth child of John and Sarah Hammond, of West Worldham, Hampshire county, England, was born on the 16th day of August, 1817, and derived the principal part of his education in England, embarking with the family for America on the 1st day of June, 1836. The date of their arrival and location in Kingsville was on the 1st day of the following August. The parents died,-the mother in 1851, and the father in 1856. The life-occupation of Mr. Hammond has been that of a farmer. He was elected to the office of trustee of Kingsville in 1862, and served for the succeeding eight years in that position; was elected to his present position in the year 1873, and re-elected in the fall of 1876. He has been twice married: the first time on July 11, 1842, to Harriet Gunn, daughter of Comfort and Sarah Gunn, of Kingsville; from this wife were born two children : John B., born July 11, 1843 ; he married Maria Van Slyke, and now resides in Michigan. Ellen E. was born August 31, 1844; her husband is Sabin Holmes. They live in Kingsville. Mr. Hammond was married to his present wife, who was a sister of his former one, on the 16th day of May, 1851. The following are the children of this marriage : Charlotte, born April 1, 1857 ; Margaret G., born October 16, 1859, died August 22, 1864 ; Gess and Gessie were born September 28, 1862. Mr. Hammond is Republican in polities; is a member of the fraternity of Freemasons, and has taken the Royal Arch degrees. RESIDENCE OF CHAS. H. CRATAR, NORTH KINGSVILLE, ASHTABULA CO., OHIO. (PATENTEE, CRATARS VEHICLE COUPLING) MARCUS KINGSLEY, M.D., was born in Barrington, Yates county, New York, on March 15, 1837. He is the youngest of five children. His father, Simon Kingsley, was a native of Providence, Rhode Island, and his mother, Miss L. Stanton, of Litchfield county, Connecticut, at which point they were married. Removed to Barrington in about 1828, and hero the father died, in the fall of 1844. The mother soon afterwards removed to Dundee, New York, and remained until 1860, when she removed to Kingsville, and yet resides there. The subject of this sketch attended district school and Dundee academy until at the age of nineteen years, when he chose the profession of medicine as the beat suited to be his life's labor, and began its study in the office of Dr. George Z. Noble, of Dundee. Continued to read medicine three years, making himself generally useful about the place as an equivalent for his board. He attended the Cleveland Homoeopathic college during the years 1859 and 1860. In the spring of the latter year coming to Kingsville, he located there as the pioneer of his practice in northeast Ashtabula County. His means were limited; there was prejudice against his school; he was an entire stranger; yet he went to work, and, as a result, has now a large, rapidly increasing, and lucrative practice. He was elected in 1863 an honorary member of the Ontario and Yates County medical society, of New York, and in the following year of the Ohio Homoeopathic medical society, of Cleveland. Was elected a member of the board of education of Kingsville township in 1870, and was mainly instrumental in the organization of the special school district, where is now a fine graded school, with an average attendance of over one hundred scholars. In the fall of 1873 was elected coroner of Ashtabula County, and, on the death of Sheriff Hart, the subsequent July, assumed the duties of that office; he, however, soon resigned. He was in 1875 the originator of the First Evangelical society of North Kingsville, and was instrumental in erecting an edifice for public worship. He is a member of the Baptist church and a Knight Templar, affiliating with Cache commandery, No. 27, of Conneaut, and the lodges subordinate to that. Dr. Kingsley was on the 3d day of March, 1870, united in marriage to Celina Stella, daughter of James C. and Clarissa M. Smith, who were of New England parentage. Dr. Kingsley is Republican in politics, and a strong advocate of total abstinence. DORSET TOWNSHIP. THOUGH among the latest settled townships of the county, yet her worthy pioneers endured more hardships than many of the earlier settlements. This township is described on the county records as township No. 10 of the second range of the Connecticut Western Reserve. The original owners, so far as can now be ascertained, were Jndge Isaac Mills, Pierpont Edwards, and others, of New Haven, Connecticut. The date of' their purchase was in the year 1798. In about 1824 this territory was organized as a separate township under the name of Millsford, and continued to he called the same until 1849, when, by special act of legislature, the present name Dorset wan substituted. There are some sixteen thousand acres of land within the boundary lines of the township, which were in 1799 divided into lots by T. R. Hawley, under the supervision of Judge Mills. This was some twenty years prior to any permanent settlement in the township. In fact, nearly the entire portion of Ohio now denominated the Western Reserve was an unbroken wilderness. The soil, or the greater part of it, consists of a rich, deep mnck, well adapted to agriculture. The eastern half was originally wet. There is still a marsh of quite considerable proportions in the southeast corner of the township, across the centre of which is a curious embankment, supposed to have been constructed by beavers, dividing its waters; those from the south, flowing into the Pymatuning creek, which empties into the Mahoning river, eventually reaching the Atlantic ocean in the Gulf of Mexico via the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. From the northern part flow small streams tributary to Mills creek, the waters of which, by the aid of Grand river, Lake Erie, etc., finally reach the same grand old Atlantic through the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Wild game was abundant ; in fact, a deer is occasionally " brought down," even at this late day, in the wooded fastnesses; of the township of Dorset. There are a great number of saline springs or " deer-licks" in this township, some of which are thonght to be more strongly impregnated with salt than any in the county. In June or July, 1799, the first attempt at settlement was made by Joel Thorp, of North Haven county, Connecticut, who, with his wife and throe small children, accomplished the journey of over six hundred miles, much of the way through an almost trackless wilderness, his mode of transit being two yoke of oxen harnessed. to one of those pioneer wagons which were nearly as indestructible as the deacon's memorable " one-horse shay," which lasted "Just a hundred year' to a day." It is thought that his location was in the southwest part of the township, on the bank of a small stream now called Bassett's creek, from the fact that a number of apple-trees were found growing on this spot by the later settlers, surrounded by a thicket of second-growth trees. The remains of a log house are still plainly visible, which was, beyond the shadow of a doubt, the first one built by a white man within the boundary lines of the township of Dorset. The Thorp family remained for nearly three years in this " howling wilderness," suffering almost incredible hardships, at times nearly dying of starvation. Many incidents are narrated relative to this family and its fortunes. Not, however, having proper authentication, we omit their reproduction here. In the early part of the summer of 1802, Mr. Thorp abandoned his claim, and, repairing to Warrensville, Cuyahoga county, began a settlement there which was soon after exchanged for land in Newburg, where it is thought some of his descendants still reside. In 1812 a family named Cowles located about one mile west of the centre, built a cabin, "slashed" down the trees on several acres of land, remained a few years, but removed prior to 1818, in which year Asa Richardson exchanged his farm in Vermont with Judge Mills for lands here, brought his family from Steuben county, New York, and erected a cabin about three-fourths of a mile northwest of the centre, on the farm now owned by George and Henry Arner, made some improvement, but removed from the township after some four or five years' sojourn. On February 8, 1821, John Smith, of Worthington, Hampshire county, Massachusetts, arrived in the township, and began life on lot No. 21, soon erecting the first log house built by a permanent settler. The tract upon which he then settled consisted of three hundred and eighty-four acres, and was the same upon which he now resides, enjoying those comforts to secure which he braved the many dangers and hardships incident to pioneer life. He informs us that the first year in the wilderness he raised forty bushels of potatoes and an equal number of bushels of corn. His family consisted of nine children, of whom John C. was the eldest. Following his birth, were Mary, Alexander H., George, and Philander (who both died young), .Philander (2d), Lucy (also deceased), Henry P., and Rufus C., all living in the township, the last named occupying the old farm, with whom resides his venerable father, the mother having deceased September 7, 1860. The spring following, Abitha Sutliff, of Connecticut, made a commencement on the centre lot, near where now stands the town hall. While engaged in clearing his lands he was, on the 9th of January, 1822, struck by a falling tree and instantly killed. This was, without doubt, the first death of a white person in the township of Dorset. Dr. Giles Cowles, of Austinburg, was the officiating clergyman on the occasion of the funeral, and his sermon is thought to have been the first delivered in the township. The Sutliff family seemed doomed to fatal accident. Upon the death of the father four children were left, viz., Anson, Joel, Lyman, and Hiram. On or about the 29th day of April, 1854, Lyman, the third sun, was murdered, but a few rods from the spot on which the unfortunate father was killed. Horace Haynes, the murderer, was sent to the penitentiary for life, which seems to be the greatest punishment meted out to him who takes the life of his fellow-man in Ashtabula County. Haynes was eventually pardoned out. A little son of Hiram Sutliff was bitten by a mad dog, from the effects of which he died in horrible agony. This occurrence was less than one-half mile from the spot where the grandfather was, years before, crushed by the falling tree. The date of this death we are unable to obtain. Nathan Bassett, of Dalton, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, arrived in the township March 10, 1822, and settled on the lot first occupied by the Cowles; family. His son William informs us they came through with teams, were about six weeks on the road, and made a stop in Madison, Lake county, remaining for a time engaged in the occupation of brick-making; in fact, Mr. Bassett built the first brick kiln in Dorset., in about 1824 or 1825. The children of Nathan Bassett are William C. (to whom our thanks are due for many facts of early history), Julia, Emma Jane, Mary Esther, and Solomon, who died in California. The June following several families arrived, and located near the Thorp place, only remaining a few years, however. They were—two brothers Richardson, Walter Marsh, and David and Abijah Winch, all originally from the State of Vermont. The first birth is thought to have been that of a daughter to John and Charlotte Smith, which event occurred in July, 1821. Austin Burr, another permanent settler, immigrated from Paris, Oneida county, New York, in 1821; was by occupation a cooper, and his first work was done in Madison, Lake county, afterwards wielding the adze and shave successively in Ashtabula, Harpersfield, Geneva, and Andover. He informs us that on the 28th of December, 1826, he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Houghton, of Andover, the ceremony taking place at the residence of the bride's father, Esquire Houghton. Mr. Burr tells me further that they had a pretty good time on the occasion. He located in Dorset in January, 1827, on the farm adjoining the one which he now occupies, and on which was erected the first building in the township where whisky did not add its "mechanical" powers to the furtherance of the work. From that time forward he has ever been an efficient worker in the cause of temperance. Seven children were born to him, of whom three still reside in Dorset, two in Kansas, one in Michigan, and one in New Lyme, this county. Lyman Larrabee, formerly from Vermont, was married in Jefferson, in 1824, to Elisabeth Cole, and in 1825 settled on lot No. 20, Dorset, where he still resides. Nathan Phillips, wife, and nine children came from Connecticut., and located in Kingsville, this county, in 1829, where B. W. Phillips, the present justice of the peace, was born, removing to Dorset some four years subsequently, and settling on lot No. 34, being the same now owned by E. G. Phillips, with whom the aged mother still resides, the father having deceased in 1853. Some time in the year 1824 occurred the first wedding in the township, the contracting parties being the widow Sutliff and — Griffin, of Morgan, this county. Austin Burr, Esq., made the happy couple one, and it is said he did exceeding well for a " raw hand" (this being his first attempt). - 209 - 210 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. THE FIRST SCHOOL was taught in the summer of 1823, by Miss Sarah Houghton (now Mrs. Austin Burr); it was kept in a small log house standing near the Thorp place. This was the first house occupied for school purposes in the township, but we are unable to give the date at which it was built. Mies Houghton taught a term of three months, receiving for the same six shillings per week, aggregating nine dollars for the term. There were some sixteen scholars in attendance. The first natural death is thought to have been that of Elijah Richardson, which occurred in perhaps 1830, Rev. Giles Cowles, of Austinburg, officiating at the funeral, which was held at the house of deceased, then standing near the corner of lot No. 21. The body was interred in the cemetery near the residence of Lyman Larrabee, Austin Burr, Esq., having given the land to the township for that purpose. The first church organized was that of those grand old pioneer religionists, the Methodists, and was formed in 1825, by Rev. Joseph Carr. The services were held at the residence of Cheever Richardson, with a membership of fifteen souls. This church is, we learn, still in a flourishing condition. The first store was opened in about 1857, by John C. Smith. The goods, of which there was the variety usually found in country stores, were displayed in a portion of his dwelling, located about one-half mile east of the centre. We learn he did a good business. The first tavern was built by George Phillips, near the spot upon which now stands the town hall. It was a frame structure, and first opened to the public in the year 1838 by William Bell, the owner. It is said a general good time was had at the " opening," fluid nourishment freely furnished by the landlord no doubt materially increasing the hilarity of the occasion. Dr. Day was the first doctor. He " hung out his shingle" from one corner of the tavern, in about 1840, and remained in Dorset about two years. Of his professional attainments we are unable to learn anything. The first orchard was planted by Nathan Bassett, on lot No. 39,—this was in the year 1835,—Mr. Bassett and his son William bringing the trees, about forty in number, on their backs from Denmark. The first steam saw-mill was built by John Smith, on the farm now occupied by his son (John C.), in about 1840; he also put in stone for grinding corn and coarse feed. No grist-mill other than this has over been in the township. John Smith also built the first cider-mill, which was in about 1842. Quite a considerable portion of the turnpike, from Leon to the centre of Dorset, was built by Mr. Smith, for the sum of twenty-five cents per rod ; for the bridge across the stream near Philander Smith's he received one dollar. The first brick house, and in fact the only one ever in the township, was erected in 1836 by the same, and is still occupied by him. The winter of 1853 witnessed the inauguration of the first singing-school, which was taught by Hiram Woodworth, in the school-house on lot No. 34. There were over thirty scholars in attendance, while the remainder of the house was filled to overflowing by citizens. The first Sabbath-school was held in a log school-house, which stood about thirty rods northwest of the present residence of B. W. Phillips, Esq., and was organized with Austin Burr as superintendent. The first road was a pioneer blazed route, running southeasterly from Jefferson, diagonally across the township; the second was what is now known as the Jefferson road,—both of which thoroughfares were surveyed by Timothy R. Hawley, of whom former mention was made. There has been a poet-office at or near the centre of the township fur so many years that the memory of deponent runneth not to the contrary ; but when established, or who was the first postmaster, it seems beyond the power of mortal man to ascertain. It is quite possible, however, that one of the Richardsons first held the office. The mails were transported over the Jefferson road for some time prior to tho establishment of a poet-office. The first building occupied as a town hall was erected by John Smith, at or near the centre. It was a small frame building, and was also occupied as a school-house. This building was erected in about 1840, and served its purpose perhaps two or three years, when it was destroyed by fire. The township took the matter in hand, and erected the present commodious town hall. The first and only cheese-factory in the township was built in 1870, by J. F. Burr. It is located near the centre, is quite a large building, and at present a paying institution. In 1873 it was purchased by T. B. Wire, who went into bankruptcy in 1875, when J. W. Chapin, its present owner, came into possession. The number of pounds of cheese manufactured the first year was fifty-eight thousand three hundred and sixty, which petted the sum of eight thousand eight hundred and eight dollars and ninety cents. On the east bank of Mills creek, north of' the Jefferson road, and near the covered bridge, stands a willow-tree of such extraordinary size and luxuriant foliage that the attention of the passer-by is attracted thereto, the trunk measuring eleven feet one and one-half inches in circumference three feet above the ground, while the top is at least sixty feet across. As the history of this huge tree will doubtless be of interest, we give it. In about the year 1830, Mrs. Tom Collins, who then lived on the place now occupied by the Arners, was returning home from an equestrian trip, and, stopping to allow her horse to drink, carelessly inserted the end of a small twig of willow (she had used as a riding-whip) into the soft surface of the bank. Whether intentionally or not, she rode away and left it in that position, and from it has grown this monster tree. Truly, "Tall oaks from little acorns grow." Of the early elections in Dorset we are unable to find any record, except the following copy of a poll-book, which sufficiently explains itself: " Poll-book of an election held in the township of Millsford, in the county of Ashtabula, on the 14th day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-eight. John Smith, Nathan Bassett, and Elijah Richardson, judges, Austin Burr, and Marinas Pierce were severally sworn as the law directs. There were eleven votes east. The candidates wore Allen Trumbull, governor ; Elisha Whittlesey, member of congress; Lemuel Lee, representative ; Lynda Jones, sheriff; Samuel Whelpley, auditor; Christopher Champlin, commissioner; Marvin Leonard, coroner. There were also on same date township officers elected as follows: Samuel Fox, Rufus Thompson, John Smith, trustees; Austin Burr, clerk ; Lyman Larrabee, treasurer ; Hiram Bassett, constable ; Walter Marsh and Nathan Bassett, poor-masters ; Samuel Fox and Nathaniel Hubbard, fence-viewers; and Rufus Thompson, John Smith, Nathaniel Hubbard, and Hiram Bassett, supervisors. Chester Woodworth was undoubtedly the first justice of the peace, but when elected we are unable to ascertain. He was succeeded by Austin Burr, who served three terms, and he by Nathan Phillips, who was elected, it is thought, in about 1838. The vote for President in 1876, as shown by the report of the secretary of state, was : Rutherford B. Hayes, ninety-seven ; Samuel J. Tilden, fifty-four. From the asse'ssor's return we gather the following statistics for 1877 :

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding (apples) Meadow Butter Cheese Maple-sugar

72 acres. 292 " 242 " 39 " 70 " 1107 "

696 bushels. 7,215   " 13,950 " 2,935   " 2,817   " 1,410 tons 19,049 pounds 111,500 " 4,646 "

There were, in 1877, four separate school-houses and three joint districts; estimated value of schools and school property, four thousand five hundred dollars. The enumeration of scholars shows a total of one hundred and twenty-six. Population in 1870, three hundred and seventy-two. ‘Tis said of the patriotism of Dorset that during the Rebellion she sent to the defense of our glorious old flag a goodly number of her citizens. Many a grave in the sunny south bears witness to their loyalty. COLEBROOK TOWNSHIP. This township was originally attached to Trumbull county, is now No. 8 of the third range, and was purchased of the Connecticut land company, by Henry Champion et al., on the 5th day of September, in the year 1798. August 8 of the year following, Mr. Champion conveyed his interest in the township to Oliver Phelps. In the year 1808 the sixteen thousand acres of land embraced within the present limits of the township were surveyed into lots one-half mile square, beginning at the northwest corner and running east to township line, then west, etc., until the entire one hundred lots were surveyed. Samuel Phillips, an ex-soldier of the Revolution and afterwards a resident of the township, was a member of this surveying-party. The surface of the township is generally flat in its eastern and western portions and slightly rolling in the central part. Numerous small streams have their beginning in the township, and empty— those flowing easterly, into Mosquito creek, the course of which is through the eastern part of the township, and those westerly into Rock creek, near the western line of the township. FIRST SETTLEMENTS. The first white family who attempted to establish a home in the dense forest fastnesses of Colebrook were by name West, who located on the east side of Mosquito creek, on the present Stroud farm. This was in, probably, the year 1812. Comparatively nothing is known of the history connected with this family, except that they cleared about eight acres of ground, abandoned the same, and removed from the township long before the first permanent settlement. The pioneer permanent settler was Joel Blakeslee, who emigrated from Avon, Genesee county, Now York, in the year 1819. Mr. Blakeslee, with a family consisting of wife and two children, made the trip, which was of twenty-nine days' duration, with a team of oxen. Commencing the journey with a sled, but soon finding bare ground, he procured a wagon, with which he continued his travels. Arriving at last at the Mecca of his pilgrimage, he, with the aid of kind friends, erected a log cabin on lot No. 38, and took possession of the same on the 24th day of May, 1819. Mr. Blakeslee was a gentleman of education and refinement, and something of a musician. Being of delicate health, he was ill adapted to endure the toils and hardships incident to the life of a pioneer. He will be remembered as having taken a lively interest in the Historical Association of this county, and, io fact, wrote up many of the townships of the county. Some of his writings are still preserved by the association, but a very large portion was destroyed at the burning of the court-house, August 17, 1850. He was a zealous member of the Masonic fraternity until his death, which occurred on November 27, 1863, and his funeral obsequies were performed by the members of that order. The children of Mr. Blakeslee, nearly all of whom yet reside in this township; were as follows : Phebe, who married James Williams; Harriet, married Lorenzo Sanders (deceased) ; Samuel, married Elizabeth Delano ; Nancy, married Sylvester Perrin ; J. Adams, married Lucinda Gladding; Lemuel, married Mary Cook (all the foregoing reside in this township) ; and Mary, who married William Adicott, and resides in Orwell. The next settler was Halsey Phillips, from Colebrook, Connecticut, who with a wife and four children, and accompanied by two brothers, —Samuel, Jr., and Benjamin F.,—arrived at Austinburg in the fall of 1820. Leaving his family with his wife's sister (Mrs. Joseph B. Cowles), they repaired to this township, and soon, by the aid of the settlers in Lebanon (now New Lyme), erected a log house,—this was on lot No. 22; was completed in the early part of November, when the family "moved in." The children of Halsey Phillips were Delinda, who married Edward C. Beckwith, and now resides in this township; Lucinda, married Ezra Beckwith, also lives in Colebrook ; Martha, married William Foreman (deceased); Jeremiah H.., married Sarah Congdon, died in the army ; John H., married Fanny Beckwith, lives about a mile from the "old farm ;" Maria and Ralph, both died young. The winter following, Samuel Phillips married Miss Hannah Woodruff, of Morgan, and began life in this township, on lot No. 21. In the fall of 1821, Roswell Stillman, who afterwards became a resident of Andover, arrived in this township, and began life on lot No. 23. He was accompanied by the wife and three daughters of Samuel Phillips, Sr., who had made the journey from Connecticut the previous spring, and had, during the summer, erected a log house-on lot No. 21, into which, though yet unfinished, the family moved. Setting to work, the house was soon finished, with puncheon - 53 - floor, deer-greased paper windows, etc. The children of this gentleman were Travis A., who married Grace Chapel (deceased); Fanny, married Samuel Emmett, also dead; Halsey, married Sally Hungerford, and now residing near the original location ; Harriet, married Eri Tuttle, lives in this township; Samuel, married Harriet Woodworth (deceased) ; Calista, married Nathan Allen (also deceased); Cleora, married Asahel Canfield, now residing in Bloomfield, Trumbull county ; Benjamin F., married Emeline Beckwith, at present residing near Dodgeville, in New Lyme (to this gentleman our thanks are due for many items of early history) ; Amelia, married Daniel Loomis (deceased). Cutler, from Vermont, located on lot No. 39 in August, 1821. His family consisted of a wife only, and as he remained in the township but a few years we are unable to obtain further particulars. In 1824, Francis Drake located on lot No. 42. Medad Canfield, from Trumbull county, settled on lot No. 41 about this time. The next settlers were Theodorus Miller, Frederic Jones, Levi Rice, and doubtless others, whose names do not occur to us. THE FIRST SCHOOL-HOUSE was erected in the year 1822. It was built of logs, of small dimensions, and stood near where is now located the cemetery at Watson's corners. Miss Cleora Phillips taught the first school in the township, in the summer of the same year the house was built. The total number of pupils enrolled was six. Miss Phillips received for her services one dollar per week, she, of course, boarding herself. The payment of her wages was made in wheat, worth then fifty cents per bushel. Calico at this time was worth seventy-five cents per yard. The summer of 1823 Mrs. Halsey Phillips taught the school for the same compensation as that paid the previous summer. The first sermon delivered in the township was in November, 1820, at the house of Joel Blakeslee, by the Rev. Ephraim T. Woodruff, pastor of the Wayne and Williamsfield church. The next sermon of which we have record was in the year 1821, by the Rev. Giles H. Cowles, of Austinburg. This meeting was held in the house of Halsey Phillips. The members of three families constituted the congregation. Of the other divines who preached to our little pioneer settlement we find the names of Rollin, Dunn, Dodge, Marks, Morse, Cheeney, Cram, and others. The first organization of a church occurred in 1831, perfected by the Rev. Cowles, of former mention, and was of the Congregational order. The members of this class numbered eighteen; were from this township, New Lyme, and Orwell. A Methodist church was formed soon after, and has now a membership of one hundred and fifty. Halsey Phillips and family united with this church on its organization, and Mr. Phillips is still a member of the same class. Present pastor, Rev. G. G. Waters. July 14, 1836, a Baptist church was formed, with a membership of twenty. Their first resident minister was Michael W. Webster, who supplied the church until 1840, when he was succeeded by S. S. Carter. The present pastor is C. H. Johnson. The Free-Will Baptist church was formed March 24, 1849, by Rufus Clark and David Rice, ministers of that denomination ; the membership was fourteen. Present pastor, T. H. Drake. Of the church edifices owned by the different denominations we will simply say they are fine and well appointed. The first Sabbath-school was in the barn of' Isaac L. Jayne, in the year 1832. Joel Blakeslee was the first superintendent. Each church has now a fine Sabbath-school. THE FIRST POST-OFFICE. This was established in January, 1826, and the mails were distributed from the residence of the postmaster, Halsey Phillips,—Joel Blakeslee second postmaster. The following are his successors: Isaac L. Jayne, A. R. Beckwick, H. Wilcox, S. Carter, S. R. Beckwith, M. W. Powell, M. O. Jayne, B. F. Phillips, M. McArtha, J. J. Peek, and Jerome Way, present incumbent. The office is located at his store. ROAD RECORD. In the office of the county auditor we find that in the month of December, 1827, a road was established " From the southwest corner of Joel Blakeslee's land; thence running southerly to the south line of said township to where it intersects; the centre road in the township of Green, Trumbull county." June, 1831: "From a point at the centre of a highway in Wayne at the east line of Colebrook, half a mile from the southeast corner of said township ; thence west - 211 - 212 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. to a highway leading by the house of Joel Owens." Same date: " From the south line of the township, where the centre north and south road in Green intersects said line; thence northerly till it intersects an east and west road about one mile from the south line of said township." March, 1832: " From a point in the highway leading by Ira Kee's westerly to the State road." June, 1836: " From the turnpike on the south line of S. W. Foreman's land to the west line of the township." The first saw-mill was built by Ira Kee at an early day ; it was located in the southeast corner of the township, on a small stream emptying into Mosquito creek. The first steam saw-mill was erected at the Centre, in the year 1848, by Halsey and John H. Phillips. This mill is now owned by Charles Pease, who has added a planing-mill. There is another steam saw-mill and shingle-manufactory in the southwest part of the township. This is owned by Cheeney & Webb. There have been at different times two small mills established in the township for grinding corn and coarse feed ; both have been long since abandoned, however. THE FIRST HOTEL was opened at the Centre, by Isaac L. Jayne, in the year 1830. This building stood near the present residence of W. H. Lancaster. The present hotel is kept by H. Wilcox, and is located also at the Centre. THE FIRST STORE. David Chase, from New York, brought on the first stock of goods, and " opened" up the same in a small log house at the Centre, in the year 1836. He next built what is now occupied as a residence by Jerome Way. Samuel Foreman was the successor of Mr. Chase. The present stores are Jerome Way and T. J. Taylor, who keep a general stock, and William Rogers, grocer. These are at the Centre, and Joseph Norton on Centre road, south. The first marriage occurred on the 23d day of November, 1823, the parties being Miss Cleora, daughter of Samuel Phillips, and Asahel Canfield, at the residence of the bride's father. Lemuel Lee, of Lebanon (now New Lyme), solemnized the marriage contract. The Rev. Mr. Alton was present, and closed the interesting proceedings with prayer. This couple now reside in Bloomfield, Trumbull county. The first physician was Porter Day, who settled just west of the Centre, near the cheese-factory, in about 1836. He only remained a year or two. The present physicians are E. T. Meacham, whose location is at the Centre,—having commenced practice at that point in the year 1862,—and H. J. Shatto, living in the west part of the township. H. A. Walling represents the dental profession in the township. The first birth of which we have any knowledge was a daughter to Halsey and Sally Phillips, in December, 1820. This child eventually became the wife of Milton 0. Jayne; both now deceased. The next birth was a son to Joel Blakeslee and wife, and occurred soon after the one previously referred to. This child (Samuel) married Elizabeth Delano, and now resides on a portion of the original farm. The first death of which we have definite knowledge was Leander, a son of Samuel Phillips, Jr., in about 1824. The name of the clergyman who officiated on the occasion of this funeral we are unable to learn, but the body was interred on lot 23, on the piece of ground now used as a cemetery. The first cheese-factory was built in the year 1870. It was located at the Centre, and was operated by a joint stock company. This factory is now owned by Messrs. Taylor & Waldorf. There are two other factories in the township, one east of the Centre, owned by John Waldorf, and another, south of that point, is owned by Myron Gee. ORGANIZATION. In the spring of 1827 the commissioners ordered that this territory be organized as a township to be called Colebrook, and also that an election be held at the usual time. Accordingly, on the 2d of April of that year time following persons were elected: Theodore Miller, Halsey Phillips, and Levi Rice, trustees ; Joel Blakeslee, clerk ; Medad Canfield, treasurer; Charles Hall and Francis Drake, fence-viewers; Samuel Phillips and Levi Rice, overseers of the poor; Benj. F. Phillips, constable, and Ira Kee, supervisor. Halsey Phillips was the first justice of the peace elected, and held the office for over twenty-five years. The present justices of the peace are John Gee and Leonidas Reeve, and the following are the officers for 1877: M. McCarthy, John H. Phillips, and John Waldorf, trustees ; H. A. Walling, clerk ; W. H. Lancaster, treasurer; Thomas Taylor, assessor; S. W. McCarthy and John Ulrich, constables. Eleven supervisors now have charge of the roads in the township. In 1834 the name of this township was changed to Phelps, and in 1836 the old name was, by special act of legislature, restored to it. " When the first settlement was made in Colebrook by Mr. West, in 1811, our country was in its infancy. A threatening war with a foreigu power, and, what was still more to be feared by the pioneers, a war with the savage Indians, made time emigrant's path full of danger. A journey from Connecticut to Ohio at that time was a greater undertaking than a trip around the world would be now. It required men and women of great courage to travel through forests without roads, cross rivers without bridges, live with wild beasts and savages, and exposed to the weather—an event astonishing in its magnitude." ANECDOTE OF EARLY TIMES.* One clear, frosty morning in the month of October of about the year 1827-28, as Mr. Joel Blakeslee was out milking his cow, he heard the rumbling of an approaching wagon, which, upon its arrival, contained old Mr. Bailey and his wife, from Greene, Trumbull county. Of course, Mr. Blakeslee was somewhat astonished to see this couple at so early an hour,—for the sun had not yet arisen,—and still more amused by the narration given by Mr. Bailey. They had got so late a start the day before that night overtook them before they had got through the woods, time traveling being necessarily slow, as no road had been opened between Greene and Colebrook, but only a sort of path or trail, which could be followed only by daylight; consequently, as the darkness began to gather, they found themselves obliged to halt and prepare for a night in the woods. Accordingly, the old horse was unhitched from the wagon, and tied to a tree near by. Then the unfortunate couple lay down in the box to rest, covered with a blanket. But soon the stillness of the night was broken by the distant howling of a wolf, which was immediately answered by another and another, until soon the forest echoed and re-echoed with the music of these animals. This state of timings caused Mrs. Bailey to feel the insecurity of her situation. She at once began to look about her for a place of safety, and immediately concluded to " ascend up higher," which she accordingly did, perching herself on a limb of a tree, where she remained until the welcome light of morn broke, dispersing the darkness and also the serenaders, allowing her to desccnd and awaken her husband, who had been quietly reposing in the wagon-box. They then pursued their journey, and arrived at Mr. Blakeslee's in time for breakfast, after which they went on their way rejoicing. To show the reader what the early pioneers have accomplished, we give the following statistics for 1877:

Wheat  Oats  Corn  Potatoes Orcharding Meadow Maple-sugar Butter Cheese

198 acres 696 " 397 " 39 " 136 " 1785 "

1,920 bushels. 19,419 " 28,540 " 3,754 " 10,245 " 2,227 tons. 11,221pounds 30,600 " 306,700 "

The total population was, in 1870,(800. The vote for President in 1876, as shown by the report of the secretary of state, was: R. B. Hayes, 165 ; S. J. Tilden, 66. The number of school-honses in township, 8; valuation, $3800; amount paid teachers, $4034; whole number of youth of school age, 263. * By Mr. S. E. Blakeslee.   JOEL BLAKESLEE.MRS JOEL. BLAKESLEE JOEL BLAKESLEE. We cannot, perhaps, at this time, do greater honor to the memory of this former antiquarian and historian than by quoting from an obituary written by a personal friend, under date of December 12, 1863, as follows: " Mr. Blakeslee was born in Colebrook, Connecticut, August 13, 1787. His father was Colonel Samuel Blakeslee, son of Joseph, who lived near the city of New Haven long before the Revolution. Colonel Blakeslee, the father of the subject of this notice, enlisted in the army of the Revolution, July 1, 1776, then sixteen years of age. He was in several battles, at Valley Forge, Monmouth, the storming of Stony Point, etc., served something over three years, and was honorably discharged. He was several times elected to the State legislature, and was highly respected as a citizen. After a term of years he moved to Avon, New York, and in the War of 1812, although exempt from military duty, he enlisted, and was promoted to colonel, in which capacity he served at the battle of Black Rock, where he came near losing his life. Returned to Avon, where he spent the rest of his life. " Joel emigrated to Ohio in 1819, arriving in Lebanon (New Lyme) on February 16 of that year. After about one month he removed to Colebrook and made a permanent settlement, remaining there through life." Being of slight frame and frail constitution, the hardships of pioneer life were almost beyond his endurance, yet he persevered and lived to see the lands denuded of the forest, churches and schools flourishing around him, and society rapidly attaining that high and cultured condition for which Ashtabula County is justly famof alie was not adapted to the life of's farmer, and much of his time was devoted to the teaching of day- and singing-schools. lie had an easy, free delivery, and was often called upon to deliver addresses in his own and adjoining towns on different occasions. Ile was an examiner of school-teachers, clerk of his township for many years, and in various ways served the public in a manner always satisfactory to them and honorable to himself. " But the one characteristic of his life that was the most prominent was his love of antiquity. He lived in the past. Perhaps no one knew better than he did the incidents connected with the early history of every town in the county. Many of the readers of this sketch will remember him in connection with a cabinet of relics of his own collection often exhibited at our county fair; these are deposited with the historical and philosophical association at Jefferson. As agent of the society, he spent much time and labor in preparing a history of the county." He was united in marriage on September 10, 1815, to Mary Emmitt, who was a daughter of Rev. Samuel Emmitt of Sparta, New York. The fruits of this union were seven children, viz.,—Sarah P., born July 21, 1816, married James H. Williams (deceased) ; Harriet A., born August 20, 1818, married Lorenzo A. Saunders ; Samuel E., born May 16,1821, married Elizabeth De Lano; Nancy T., born January 2, 1824, married Sylvester Perrew ; John A., born August 12, 1826, married Lucinda M. Gladding; Lemuel L., born February 16, 1829, married Mary Cook ; and Mary J., born September 11, 1833, married William Addicott. " He was a good neighbor, kind husband and father, a faithful friend, an enemy of no person, benevolent, and a true Christian." He was a life-long and worthy member of the society of Freemasons, and in his travels received much substantial aid from the brethren of this mystic brotherhood. His death occurred on the 27th day of November, 1863, and his funeral was conducted under the auspices of the order, a numerous audience being in attendance despite the inclemency of the weather. His works will stand a perpetual monument so long as time endures. DENMARK TOWNSHIP, THE township of Denmark is designated as township eleven, range two, and was drawn in draft number two of the drawing of the Connecticut land company. Caleb Atwater, of Wallingford, New Haven county, Connecticut, being one of those concerned in this draft, and on the 9th day of October, 1798, became sole proprietor. His purchase on that date comprised fifteen thousand four hundred acres, and was divided among his children, none of whom ever became residents of the township. Denmark was first divided into lots or sections one mile square, and subsequently (in 1812, most likely) re-divided into lots containing one hundred and sixty acres each. The survey at this time was conducted by a party named Elliot, under the superintendence of Major Levi Gaylord, then residing in Geneva, this county. In both surveys the numbers commenced at the southwest corner, running north, and oounting each way. The soil is varied and generally of a good quality,—much of the land requiring ditching before becoming tillable, but is rich and productive when properly drained. The principal water-course is that called Mills creek, which rises in the southeast portion of Dorset and empties its waters into Grand river, in the southern portion of Austinburg. Peter creek, another small stream, also rises in Dorset, and forms a junction with Mills creek at a point one and a half miles from the east line of Denmark. It derives its name from the fact that on its bank Peter Knapp erected the first cabin in the township. A chair-factory was built on this creek in 1834 by Ebenezer Williams. Griggs' creek, in the northwestern portion of the township, derives its name from Solomon Griggs, who early located on its south bank. Wild game was plentiful in the early settlement of the township, elk and deer finding abundant pasturage, while the bear and wolf wandered "at their own sweet will" within its forests. The frightening scream of the panther was often heard by the early settlers, though none, we believe, were ever seen by them. Black-snakes, rattle-snakes, and copperheads were numerous, Peter Knapp having been bitten by one of the latter venomous reptiles. The first road was " blazed" previous to any white immigration, commencing at or near the residence of Dr. Almon Hawley, in Jefferson, running thence to the southwest corner of this. township, and east along township lines of this and Dorset, Richmond and Pierpont, terminating at Sorrell Hill, Pennsylvania. Various small bands of Indians frequented this section until the breaking out of the War of 1812, when they suddenly departed. After the close of the war a few of the Seneca tribe returned, occasionally camping on the banks of Mills creek during the hunting season, until about 1821, since which time few have ever visited this region. The party consisted of Captain Philip, his son, Captain John, and a few hunters, with a goodly retinue of squaws and papooses. They were, however, on friendly terms with the white settlers. THE FIRST SETTLER was, as previously mentioned, Peter Knapp, who emigrated from Windham, Greene county, New York, in 1809, arriving at what was to be his future home on the evening of July 7. Setting immediately to work, he had completed, ere he laid him down to rest, the first dwelling-place erected in the township by a white person. The construction of this domicile was simple in the extreme, the frame consisting of six stakes driven into the ground, on the top of which were placed poles for the roof, while over all was fastened the canvas wagon-cover. Pieces of bark constituted the floor. And in this primitive and diminutive but the family lived until the father and elder brothers had rolled up the FIRST LOG HOUSE, which stood near the spot upon which is now the residence of H. E. Williams, whose wife is a descendant of Peter Knapp's family. Of the children who came with their parents into the wilderness we have Harmon, who in due time married Submit Barker, and now resides in Saybrook ; Nicholas, who married Alvira Rockwell, of Richmond; Peggy, who found a husband in Thair Yates, also of Richmond ; Sally and Newcomb, who both died unmarried ; and Chloe, who married Nathan Harvey, of this township. The next birth which occurred in the family was that of Laura, in 1811. She was the first child born in the township, and in the course of time married William Brackett, of Saybrook, of this county, where they resided for a time, finally returning to Denmark, where they passed the remainder of their days. After the birth of Laura followed three boys, Benedict, Benjamin, Walter, and a daughter, Lovena. Subsequently, in the autumn, Daniel Knapp and John Dibble, Jr., arrived from the same place whence Peter Knapp had come, and made settlement on adjoining lands. The children of Daniel Knapp were Elihu, Roswell, Rachel, Polly, and Sally, who married Daniel Palmer, of New Hampshire, an ex-soldier of the War of 1812. From his son, D. K. Palmer, who still resides on the old farm, we learn many particulars of the early history of the township. Of the history of John Dibble, Jr., we can learn nothing. In the year 1810, John Dibble, Sr., and John Boomhower came from Austinburg and made settlement near the others. Shortly afterwards, Philip Goff, Ezra Dibble, and Ebenezer Platt put in an appearance at the settlement. In 1812, Alanson Williams, of Connecticut, settled on section 20, and the name year William Croaker commenced improvements on the southeast corner section, and in due time erected the first tavern. Without doubt, many of the advantages enjoyed by the early settlers are due to his industry and spirit of go-aheadativeness. It was he who built the first saw- and grist-mill,—the date of which event, however, we are unable to obtain, them being none of his descendants living in the township, as is also the case with the families of John Dibble and John and Solomon Griggs. The mills were built on Ashtabula creek, The second saw-mill was erected on Mills creek, by Philip Goff, in 1828. The first school-house in the township was built on the bank of Peter creek, on lands owned by John Dibble, Sr. It was located a short distance east of the centre was of logs, uncouth in appearance, but no doubt the "young idea" learned as effectually " how to shoot" within its rough-hewn walls, and the birchen rod cut just as deeply, as happen in the more pretentious school buildings of the present day. The first winter school was taught by Obed Dibble, in 1812 and 1813. He was a son of the gentleman upon whose land the school-house was located. There were twenty scholars in attendance ; the term was of three months' duration, the teacher receiving for his services the sum of twenty-one dollars, or seven dollars per month. Tradition does not state, but undoubtedly he boarded himself, —he could certainly afford to with the wages he received. The first summer school was taught in 1813, by Miss Patience Baldwin, who now resides in Kingsville, married and happy, we trust. As there seems to be a difference of opinion in relation to who were the happy parties participating in the first marriage, we give both sides a hearing. In the year 1812, about the time of the infamous surrender of the traitor Hull, at Detroit, William Morrison was united to Miss Chloe Gaff, Doctor Elijah Coleman, justice of the peace of Jefferson, performing the ceremony, which took place at the residence of the bride's father, Philip Gaff. A large ,umber of friends were in attendance, and were served to generous quantities of milk-punch and egg-cog, until, as our informant states, everything was lovely and everybody happy. The other marriage occurred about the same time, the contracting parties being Elihu Knapp and Nancy Huntley, by whom united we are unable to ascertain. Of their descendants we learn that their oldest son Harvey was a missionary to India. His health failing him, he embarked for home. Growing rapidly worse, he died before reaching port, and his remains were consigned to the sea. The first physician was one Dr. Willis, who settled in the township near Crooker's mills, about 1830, remaining only four or five years. The first cemetery was located on the farm of Daniel Knapp, near the present residence of H. E. Williams, and the first person interred therein was Rachel, the youngest daughter of Daniel Knapp, whose death occurred in April, 1811. The first sermon delivered within the limits of the township was by Elder Joshua Woodworth, of Jefferson, at the funeral of the above-mentioned Miss Knapp. The first meeting-house was erected upon the land of Peter Knapp, in about 1832. It was a frame structure, and served not only the sacred purpose for which it was erected, but also that of a school-house and town hall. This building stood on the corner where now stands the store and office of W. H. Seagur, Esq. The first church organization was that of the Baptists, in 1812. They had no regular preaching, ministers of all denominations occasionally preaching in private houses until the building of the church above referred to, since which time services have been held on the Sabbath generally. - 213 - 214 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. The first orchard was undoubtedly planted by Daniel Knapp, on the farm now occupied by D. K. Palmer just when, we cannot ascertain. The position of postmaster was first held by John Dibble, whose office was located, at an early day, on the east bank of Mills creek. The mails were at that time carried on foot. Elihu Knapp was the second postmaster. After him, Charles Willis, who was succeeded by E. (hooker, and he by Ebenezer Williams, who held the office many years. In 1863 he was succeeded by Horace Knapp; the latter by W. H. Williams, in 1867. Giles Ives was appointed in 1869, and D. K. Palmer, the present incumbent, in 1871. From the following extracts from the records it will be seen that Ezra Dibble was the first justice of the peace. We would add, by way of explanation, that Denmark, at the time of organization, included the territory now comprising the three townships, viz., Dorset, Richmond, and Pierpont, in addition to that now called Denmark. COPY OF RECORD. " At a meeting of the township of Denmark, August 3, 1813, at David Randall's, to elect township officers for the ensuing year, the following were duly elected : Asa Benjamin, Ezra Dibble, and Harvey Rockwell, trustees ; David Randall and Ewins Wright, overseers of poor; John Ralph and Samuel Kincaid, fence-viewers ; John Dibble and Jepthah Turner, appraisers; Ewins Wright, John Ralph, and Peter Knapp, supervisors; Smith Platt, constable; and Joseph Dewey, treasurer. Andrew Harvey, supervisor, was sworn in by T. R. Hawley, clerk of the court of common pleas of Ashtabula County. The foregoing officers qualified before Ezra Dibble, Esq., except Dibble himself; who was sworn in by Jepthah Turner, town clerk." Farther along in the same volume we find that on the 8th day of October, 1816, was held the first State and county election in which the township participated, at which time eight votes were cast for Levi Gaylord, commissioner, and six for Peter Hitchcock for member of congress. Another entry shows that on the "1st day of November, A.D. 1816, an election was held for President and Vice-President of the United States, Aaron Wheeler receiving five votes for the former, and Alford Kelly an equal, number for the last-named office." The ballot was a unanimous one in favor of these gentlemen. In the fall of 1811 a large quantity of wheat was sown, Peter Knapp alone putting in thirteen acres, and the other settlers sowing more or leas. The next season—in June—there came a terrific hail-storm which lasted only one hour, yet in that brief period destroying entirely the fields of waving grain almost ripe for the sickle, and to which these early pioneers looked for sustenance through the coming winter. Kinsman, Trumbull county, the Egypt of the set-tiers the preceding winter, was again appealed to, and the call was not in vain. To Judge Kinsman, who let the suffering settlers have of his store to supply their needs, grateful thanks wore ever accorded. The only report we are able to procure from the Griggs corner of the township is from a son of David Gary, who removed from Genesee county, New York, in 1834, and settled on the lot orig inally occupied.by John Grim (No. 5). Of the five children who came with their father, only one remains in the township. This one (Oliver H.) still occupies the old homestead. He informs us that when they moved into the township their nearest neighbors were four miles away, the houses were all of logs, and poor improvements everywhere. Deer would often browse within a few rods of the house. As " the boys" will not think our sketch complete without a bear story, we give below one told us by the " oldest inhabitant." Late in the fall following their arrival in Denmark, Peter Knapp and his son Nicholas were out in the woods prospecting for coon. The elder Knapp carried an axe, while the juvenile was entirely unarmed. They had become somewhat separated, when Nick espied a young bear and immediately gave chase. Bruin, seeing his chances of escape growing wofully uncertain, attempted to climb a tree, and had succeeded in getting up nearly out of reach, when the boy seized him by the hair on the hips, and that bear came down. Once on terra firma, his desire to turn around and masticate the youthful Nicholas seemed unbounded. At each effort in that direction, however, the boy pulled the ̊slur way, at the same time shouting lustily for his father, who, hearing the disturbance, soon appeared and closed the scene by a well-directed blow with the axe. To give something of an idea of the vast number of wolves inhabiting our forests at that time we will state that, soon after settling in this township, Ebenezer Williams had occasion to make a journey to Jefferson, and, as there was no road except a " bridle-path," he made the trip on horseback ; was delayed until after dark before starting homeward, and was followed the entire distance by a drove of wolves, who accompanied him on either side, and showed their affection for him by continually snapping at his feet.. They did not leave him until he arrived at his very door. Of the present condition of Denmark we find, from documents on file in the office of Auditor Crowell, that there are now eight school-houses in the township, the estimated value of which, including grounds, amounts to four thousand dollars, with a total enumeration of three hundred and ninety-eight scholars. The census returns for 1876 show the total population 644 ; and at the presidential election in 1876 the vote stood: It. B. Hayes, 92; S. J. Tilden, 42. Also that in the year 1876 there were:

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow (hay) Butter Cheese Maple-sugar

113 acres 296 " 239 " 38 " 57 " 827 "

950 bushels. 6,459 “ 7,772 " 3,488 " 1,734 "" 1,009 tons. 13,415 pounds. 5,250 " 1,860 "

Of those who went out to battle for a common cause let us say, may their brave deeds be ever kept in grateful remembrance, and may the starry flag which led them wave forever, the proud ensign of a free people ANDOVER TOWNSHIP. ANDOVER is designated on the county records as the ninth township of the first range of the original Connecticut Western Reserve. The original owner of the sixteen thousand seven hundred and thirty-three acres of land constituting the present township of Andover was Henry Champion. His deed from the Connecticut land company bears date September 10, 1798. Subsequently, Champion sold ten thousand acres, extending from the east line westwardly, to parties named Norton, of Hartford, and Stocking, of Middletown, Connecticut. TOPOGRAPHY. The western portion of Andover is of a high, rolling nature, while the eastern part is more level and in some places quite low. In the western part of the township, and just east of the State road, is quite an elevation of land,—the highest perhaps in Ashtabula County, some even applying the dignified name of mountain to it. The soil is a mixture of clay and gravel, averaging in productiveness with the adjoining townships. The streams of water are mostly slight spring runs, flowing into the Chenango creek on the east. This is the only considerable stream in the township, and only flows through a small part on the east line. The western portion of the township is abundantly watered by springs, the small streams from which find outlet into the Pymatuning. Andover was surveyed into sections by T. R. Hawley, in 1805, in size one mile east and west by one-half mile north and south, and beginning at the northwest corner. EARLY SETTLEMENTS. The first settlements were begun in the portion of the township now denominated West Andover, and for years the business of the township was conducted at this point. Epephras Lyman, originally from New Hartford, Litchfield county, Connecticut, was the first white person who attempted a settlement ; this was on lot No. 6, in the year 1805 or 1806. B. F. Perry, who married a daughter of Mr. Lyman, now owns a portion of this farm. Mr. Lyman was at this time a single man, and a small cabin, which he erected for his own convenience, stood on or near the west line of the township. To Zadoc Steele, however, belongs the honor of being the first permanent settler who brought a family into the wilderness. His native place was near Hartford, Litchfield county, Connecticut. In 1806, Mr. Steele made his first visit to Ohio, coming on foot to Albany, thence up the Mohawk river, finally reaching Austinburg, at which point there was a small settlement. From that point he found his way to No. 9 of the first range by the aid of a pocket-compass, there being no road. His selection of land was on lot No. 6. Returning to Connecticut, he completed his arrangements, and in June, 1808, with his wife and son Walcott, loaded his household goods into a sleigh, to which was harnessed a stout team of horses, and, in company with three neighbors, began the journey which was to terminate in the then far western wilderness. After many mishaps by " field and flood," Mr. Steele and family finally arrived at their destination. They occupied the cabin formerly built by Lyman, until he had erected the first log house in the township. This was in size some twenty by twenty-six feet, and was considered a model establishment of its kind. Its location was a few feet south of the spot where now stands the Steele mansion. The children of this pioneer were Walcott, before mentioned, who was the eldest child (married Lovina Johnson, and now resides at Shirland, Winnebago county, Illinois); William, who married Caroline Woodruff, and now lives at Homestead, Michigan; Francis, who married Rosetta Andrews, deceased at Shirland, Illinois, January 31,1850; Almon, who married Anna Adams, died in Iowa, September, 1865 ; Harriet, who married Eldad W. Merrell, died May, 1866, in the old homestead,—the children of Harriet still residing there with Aunt Abbie, who was the next child; Olive, the next child, married Grove E. Steele, died in Cherry Valley, May, 1861 ; Orange, a twin brother, died in infancy ; Cordelia and Sarah Ann,—both died when quite young. Epephras Lyman, having married a daughter of Stephen Brown, of Austinburg, settled in Andover (on lot 6) some time during the month of April, 1810. The children of Mr. Lyman were Horatio, Betsey, James, George, Lois, Willard, and Edmond. These were by his first wife, who died September 14, 1822; age, twenty-nine years. Mr. Lyman's second wife was Mary Hutchinson, of Salisbury, Connecticut. The children by this marriage were Mary, Eliza, Albert, and 54 Laura, now the wife of B. F. Perry. In June, 1812, Francis Lyman, wife, and three children began settlement on lot No. 5, taking up some one hundred and seventy acres. A short time prior to this, however, Isaac H. Phelps removed, temporarily, from Harpersfield, this county, into this town, and began the erection of a building designed for a grist-mill. This was on lot No. 3; the building was of logs, two stories in height, and stood on the stream now occupied by the Fritz woolen-factory. Phelps had completed the building and some of the machinery, when the news of' Hull's surrender threw the whole country into a perfect fever of excitement. Mr. Phelps abandoned his building, and returned to Harpersfield. On November 5, 1813, Reuben Bates, Deacon Benjamin Carpenter, and Alba Coleman, with their families, emigrated from Chester, Massachusetts, locating at short distances from each other, and near the other improvements,—Bates, on the place now occupied by Hannah Houghton. Carpenter's place is owned at present by his son Sidney, who was a child of perhaps two years of age when his father came into the wilderness. The Coleman heirs are yet residing on the original property taken up in 1813. On the 1st day of March, 1814, Rufus Houghton, having paid Phelps for his improvements, moved into Andover from Harpersfield, this county: His family, at this time, consisted of a wife and six children, Rufus, the eldest of whom, resides in Jefferson, and to whom our thanks are due for facts of early history. Setting to work, Mr. Houghton completed, and set to running, some time in the November following, the first grist-mill in Andover, or, in fact, within many miles of that point. Norman Merrell, another settler, came about this time, and located on the farm now owned by his son Newton. OTHER EARLY EVENTS. It has always been understood that the first child born in the township was a son to Zadoc and Laura Steele, in 1809. The facts arc that this child first saw the light of this bright, beautiful world of ours at the house of their nearest neighbor, Samuel Tuttle, of Williamsfield, whither the parents has repaired, a few days prior to the accouchement, that the necessary assistance might be obtained, returning to their home in Andover when circumstances would admit. In this connection, we will relate an incident in which a favorite dog of Mr. Steele's was made very useful. The circumstances were that the dog (Jewell), having become acquainted with neighbor Tuttle (six miles away), whenever subjected to discipline at home would vacate his master's premises for those of the neighbor, and vice versa. An arrangement was effected between Messrs. Steele and Tuttle that the dog should be used as a private mail-carrier whenever occasion required. Soon after returning to their home, Mrs. Steele was taken violently sick, under circumstances which rendered it impossible for the husband to go for assistance. Accordingly a note was written, placed around the dog's neck, and a few admonitory words spoken, the effect of which was to start the canine brute upon his errand of mercy. In due time he arrived at Mr. Tuttle's, who read the note, and was soon on his way with the desired assistance. The first female child born in Andover was Miriam, daughter of Rufus Houghton, in June, 1804. In this year also occurred the first marriage, the parties to which were Miss Polly Carpenter and Aremas Smith. Ezra Leonard, justice of the peace, was the gentleman who joined these two loving hearts in bonds, which were not, to their credit be it said, as easily broken as in the year of our Lord 1878. We use the word "loving" upon the supposition that in those early days true affection constituted the basis of a matrimonial alliance, the quantity of love necessary to consummate marriage not being governed, as is too frequently the case at present, by the contents of the pocket-book. The first death was that of Mrs. Dorothy, wife of Rufus Houghton, December 4, 1816. The remains were interred on lot number 5, being the piece of land deeded to the township in 1814 by Aristarchus Champion for a cemetery, and still occupied as such. The religious services on the occasion of this funeral were conducted by the Rev. Harvey Coe, then residing in Vernon, Trumbull county. The first school was taught in Andover by Miss Dorothy Houghton, in the summer of 1814. There was no school-house at this time in the township. This school was taught in the log barn of Francis Lyman. The first post-office was established the same year, and was kept at the house of the postmaster, Epephras - 215 - 216 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. Lyman, for a number of years. The mails were carried on horseback or on foot as the condition of the roads would permit, the route being from Warren, Trumbull county, to the lake through the fourth range, and returning through the first range, making the round-trip once each week. The present postmaster at this point is S. L. Green. The first orchard was planted by Zadoc Steele, in about 1808, and consisted of some one hundred trees. Epephras Lyman's orchard was the second in Andover. The first church organized was the Presbyterian, in 1818. This was effected at the house of Mr. Steele, where religious services were held, as also at the houses of the other settlers, until the building of a church edifice. The present church edifice was erected in 1840. The first physician who settled in the township was Perry Pratt, in the year 1818. Dr. Pratt remained some years, and is now spoken of as having been a very useful member of the community and highly esteemed as a physician. He afterwards studied for the ministry. The present physician is A. Leslie, who resides on a portion of the Lyman tract, at the centre. The first resident minister was Joseph Bride, who located in Andover in 1828. ANDOVER ROADS. The first road of which we have any record was the Salt road. This was a crooked affair, following the dry ridges or wherever a route could be established with the least trouble. In 1822 or thereabouts a turnpike was built from a point near the northwest corner of this township (now Lenox) to Conneaut. It is said considerable stock was taken in this road by West Andover residents, and that the dividends paid were about the same as are at present realized on most railroad stocks. In June, 1819, a road was established from the State line to meet the north and south road in New Lyme. OTHER ROADS. The following roads were laid out in 1819: 1st, From the centre of the south line of No. 9, first range, to the south line of No 10 (Richmond) ; 2d, From No. 8, second range (Wayne), to a line agreeable to the north, east, and west lines of No. 2 township, No. 9 in the first range. March, 1820, a road was formed running from the Pennsylvania State line, between lots Nos. 43 and 44 in No. 9, first range, to the State road. December, 1820, another, from the north line of No. 9, first range, between lots Nos. 31 and 41, to the south line thereof, at the corner of lots Nos. 40 and 50. Same date, another from the State line, between the lots Nos. 41 and 42, to the State road. Same date, another from the State line, between lot lines of 47 and 48, to the State road. December, 1828, from the State road in lot No. 3 west of the house of the late Reuben Bates in Andover ; thence westwardly, across land occupied, in part, by Case & Slater's mill, till it intersects the town line west; also to continue the road that is now laid from the Pennsylvania line to the State road, between the lots 1 and 2, to the west line of said town. LATER SETTLEMENTS AND IMPROVEMENTS. Of the more recent settlers at West Andover, we find that Sela Merrell, of New Hartford, Connecticut, arrived in the township on the 22d of November, 1822, locating about one mile south of the corners, on the State road, on lot No. 7. Two children came with him, the youngest of whom, Sela Cowles, still resides on the old homestead. The first frame house in this section was erected by Mr. Merrell the year he settled, and is now standing a short distance south of the present residence of Sela C. Merrell. This building was used for hotel purposes from 1832 to 1837. Calvin Mason and family, from Washington county, New York, located on the southwest corner lot, west side of the State road, in 1836. His fourth son still resides on the old place. E. F. Mason, the present popular county recorder, is the eldest son of this gentleman. The first settler east of the State road was Roger Cadwell, who located on what is now known as the Cadwell farm in July 10,1817. Mr. Cadwell's former home was in Farmington, Hartford county, Connecticut. The children were Emily C., Melinda, Mary, Roger, Starr, Julia, Rhoda, and an infant named Candace ; the children born in Andover were Jonathan, Darius, and James. Contemporary with the pioneer commencement of Mr. Cadwell, the following located in the central and eastern portions of the township : Lebbeus Marvin, Col. Adams, Sylvanus Marvin, Sr., Almond Manley, Joel Rice, David Strickland, Seth Hillyer, John Pickett, Luther Jones, Samuel Phillips, Timothy Case, father of 0. B. Case (to whom our thanks are due for assistance in compiling this history), and doubtless others whose names are not obtainable. In 1819, Daniel Strickland erected a sawmill on the site now occupied by Leet's tannery. Messrs. Adams & Marvin erected a saw- and grist-mill in 1821 near the spot upon which was afterwards located the Courson mill. The first frame building erected at Andover Centre, and without doubt the second in the township, was a school-house on the public square, in 1820. It is said that this event was made an occasion of rejoicing, a large number of ladies of the township honoring the event with their presence. This building, after doing duty many years as school-house, town hall, and a place for religious meetings, was removed and used as a curing-room for the first cheese-factory in the town ; it is now occupied as a dwelling by Cordean Sweet. The first school was taught in the summer of 1820, by Miss Emily Adams ; the next winter Samuel S. Wade taught a term in this house. Of the forty scholars enrolled during this term there were 9 of the Marvin family, 7 Adamsea, 6 Stricklands, 5 Hillyers, 4 Cadwells, and an equal number of Manleys, 3 Beldons, 2 Phillipses, and 1 Winegar. In 1820, the three brothers Wade—Samuel S., Theodore, and Charles—came into the township ; they were unmarried. James Wade, the father, and Benjamin F. Wade, now of national celebrity (for particulars see biographical sketch), from Springfield, Massachusetts, located on lots 38 and 48, in 1823. In 1821, Theodore Wade taught a three months' school in Madison, receiving for the game six barrels of whisky, and Charles, his brother, taught the same winter in Monroe, for which he received five barrels of the same beverage. We use this term from the fact that at that time no one supposed water was fit to drink unless mixed with something,—whisky being the currency of the country, of which every man must have a supply,—a drink on meeting being equivalent to the present hearty shake of the band. It is related that a house of one of the early settlers of Andover having been burned, the friends turned out to raise contributions. Deacon Nathaniel Owens and a neighbor started for the southern settlements for that purpose ; and, to show how necessary was the " ardent" to the destitute settler, two barrels were placed in the wagon, one in which to put the pork and another for the fluid nourishment ; both barrels were filled, and the whisky was considered fully as important in the household as the pork. ORGANIZATION. In relation to the organization of the township of Andover, we find that the early records were destroyed by fire on May 3, 1823, but we are able to learn from other sources that organization was effected in 1819, and that Rufus Houghton was commissioned a justice of the peace November 17, 1820. Mr. Houghton was undoubtedly the first justice of the peace in the township. John Pickett, Jr., was the second justice of the peace, his commission bearing date June, 1821. On April 2, 1824, occurs the first record of an election, at which time John Pickett, Merrick Bates, and Lebbous Marvin were elected trustees; John Pickett, Jr., clerk ; Nathan C. Johnson and Daniel Marvin, overseers of the poor ; Seth Hillyer and John Fenn, fence-viewers ; Horace Smith and Alba Coleman, appraisers ; Joseph Pickett, treasurer ; Charles W. Wade and Salmon Case, constables ; Epephras Lyman, Salmon Case, John Penn, Nathaniel Owens, and Theodore L. Wade, supervisors. Epephras Lyman was commissioned a justice of the peace October 27, 1829. It will be noticed that in the early election returns of every township persons were chosen called overseers of the poor. There being at that time no county infirmary, each township cared for its own poor, the keeping of which was given to the lowest bidder, or the person who would take these poor unfortunates for the least compensation, and feed and clothe them. These officers attended to this matter, as also to the levying of the necessary poor-tax. HOTELS. The first hotel at the Centre was opened by Colonel Manley, in perhaps 1835. This house was located on West Main street. A portion of the original building is still standing, and occupied as a dwelling. The present hotels are the Keen House, W. J. Keen, proprietor, a commodious frame building, located on the southwest corner of the public square and West Main street. The Morley House stands near the station. This house is owned by E. W. Morley, who opened the first clothing-house at this point. CHURCHES. The first church organization at the Centre was by the Congregationalists, in 1832. The present church edifice was erected in 1843. The Methodists have recently completed a neat, substantial church at the Centre, at a total coat for lot, building, and furniture of two thousand and seventy dollars. The Rev. J. R. Hoover is the present pastor. There is also a house at the Centre belonging to the Universalists, built in about 1854. The first cheese was manufactured in Andover township in 1809, by Mrs Laura Steele, from the milk of one cow, and the first cheese-factory was established in 1850, by 0. E. & P. F. Marvin. The location was some twenty-five rods west of the public square, on the south side of West Main street. This factory was in operation some two years. The present factory began operations in 1873, with J. S. Morley owner. The annual amount made for the time Mr. Morley was proprietor averaged some ninety tons. He also made butter in con- HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO - 217 nection with the manufacture of cheese. In January, 1877, this factory was purchased by P. A. Tobias, under whose management it is at present conducted. Mr. Tobias has also another factory in the southeast corner of the township. The cheese-factory at West Andover was built in 1868, by George C. Dolph. The present proprietors are Olds & Fowler, who purchased the property in 1875. The "Wade farm creamery" was established about 1872, in the east part of Andover. The first, and in fact the only, paper published in Andover was the Enterprise, an eight-column weekly, owned by J. S. Morley and edited by D. L. Calkins, the first number of which was issued in December,. 1872. The paper was conducted under the management of Calkins until January, 1874, when Morley disposed of the press and fixtures, purchased a new and improved one, and continued the publication under the firm-name of Morley & Coffin, the latter editing the sheet. In January, 1875, Mr. Morley became sole manager. The last number of the Enterprise was issued in June, 1875, soon after which the press and stock were sold to parties at Sandy Lake, Pennsylvania. The Agricultural society's annual fair, which has become one of the institutions of Andover, was established in 1858. The officers for 1877 are E. A. Fobes, president; G. C. Campbell, vice-president; A. C. Laughlin, secretary ; J. S. Morley, treasurer ; B. D. Morley, corresponding secretary ; R. Gane, S. O. Stillman, F. H. Mason, R. D. Marvin, William Hopper, and C. F. Sunbury, directors. FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS. It was not until a recent data that a lodge of the " brethren of the mystic tie" was instituted in Andover, the first meeting under dispensation having been held on the evening of May 13, 5875. Regular communications were held thereafter on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month until November 9 of the same year, at which time the charter was received from the grand lodge, and Andover lodge, No. 506, was regularly instituted by A. W. Steele, Past Master of Golden Rule lodge, No. 331, Cherry Valley, and the following officers duly installed : J. C. Smith, W. M.; Newton Merrell, S. W. ; Jay J. Rice, J. W.; H. W. Hughes, Treas.; B. D. Morley, Sec. ; W. J. Keen, S. D.; A. H. Pettit, J. D.; N. I. Swezey, Tyler. The charter members were J. C. Smith, Newton Merrell, Jay J. Rice, A. H. Pettit, A. H. Slater, A. N. Slater, C. H. Fitts, S. M. Selby, F. Patterson, S. C. Merrell, Jr., I. Clapp, M. S. Morse, F. S. Lyman, H. W. Hughes, B. D. Morley, D. Woodruff, and G. C. Gay. The total number of admissions is sixty, and the present membership is thirty-three. The material is closely inspected, and none worked except that which is perfect. Thus the craft are safely advancing in the path of fraternal brotherhood. The present officers are Newton Merrell, W. M.; C. E. Harmon, S. W. ; W. Benjamin, J. W. ; B. D. Morley, Treas. ; A. H. Pettit, Sec. ; George Winchester, S. D.; Orrin M. Hall, J. D.; C. L. Wheeler, Tyler. The present flouring-mill at Andover Centre was erected by its proprietor,. L. R. Griffis, in 1875. It is a fine wooden building located on East Main street, on the line of the Franklin division of the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern railway, from which a span track is laid to the mill ; the two run of stone and necessary machinery are propelled by a thirty horse-power horizontal engine. Both merchant and custom grinding are done at this mill. The amount of sales from January 1, 1877, to October 1, 1877, aggregated the snug sum of fourteen thousand eight hundred and eighty-eight dollars, or nearly twenty thousand dollars for the year ; the entire cost of the mill and grounds was nine thousand four hundred dollars. Mr. Griffis also deals in salt, lime, phosphate, bricks, tiles, etc. The following is the exhibit of trade at Andover village: Dry Goods, Groceries, Notions, etc.—J. McCurdy & Co., average stock, ten thousand dollars ; yearly sales, twenty-five thousand dollars. Hughes & Son, average stock, eight thousand dollars; yearly sales, twenty thousand dollars. Hardware, Sash-Doors, etc.—L. .1...Merrell & Co., average stock, five thousand dollars ; yearly sales, fifteen thousand dollars This is the first store of the kind at the Centre. Furniture.—C. Russell, average stock, fifteen hundred dollars ; sales, three thousand five hundred dollars. Clothing and Furnishing Goods.—E. W. Morley, average stock, ten thousand dollars; males, twenty thousand dollars. Drugs and Medicines.—In about 1867 the Birch Bros. opened a drug-store in the building now occupied as a dental office; continued in the business until 1870, when their stock was purchased by J. S. and B. Morley. Messrs. Morley Bros. kept at that time a general stock of dry goods, groceries, etc. In the spring of 1877 they closed out their stock, aside from drugs, and at present represent that branch of trade. The post-office is kept in their store, J. S. Morley, postmaster, having been commissioned July 42, 1861. The boot and shoe trade is represented by B. D. Morley, who has in connection a manufactory employing a number of workmen. At West Andover the business is as follows : E. E. Ives, dry goods, etc. B. F. Palum, Jr., has a full stock of hard- and tin-ware, and runs a jobbing-shop in connection. Messrs. Gregory Bros. have a carriage-manufactory east of the town. J. L. Osborn, steam saw-mill, Myron Mason represents the furniture trade. There are also photograph-rooms, harness, blacksmith-shop, etc.; the business having drawn towards the Centre as that point increased in mercantile establishments. The number of school-houses the present year is nine. Valuation of same and of grounds, six thousand dollars. Enumeration of scholars, three hundred and seven. CROP STATISTICS, 1877.

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow Butter Cheese Maple-sugar

135 acres 503 " 461 " 102 " 2357 " 2004 "

1,649 bushels. 14,033 " 17,938 " 6,095 " 22,055 " 2,989 tons. 25,305 pounds 342,500 “ 11,275 "

Population in 1870 was 921. The report of the secretary of state shows that the vote for President was as follows: R. B. Hayes, 241 ; S. J. Tilden, 42. Celebrated Men.—B. F. Wade; Edward Wade, who represented the Cleveland district twelve years; Nathaniel Owens, ex-member of legislature; Darius Cadwell, representative, senator, and at present judge (Cleveland) ; " Dist." Wade, state senator, now chief justice of Montana. ANDOVER'S PATRIOTISM. The journals of Monday, April 15, 1864, displayed conspicuously the proclamation of President Lincoln calling on the States for seventy-five thousand men. The Sunday following a rumor reached Andover that Cincinnati was menaced by a body of insurgents. A meeting was held Sunday evening, and the town hall was filled to overflowing. Volunteers were called for, and an entire company of infantry was nearly raised. The company was filled in a few days,—was organized at West Andover, and their services tendered to the government. But as the quota of the State had been previously filled, they were, not received ; and the company was disbanded. Early in August following, Edwin Chapman and B. F. Perry received authority to recruit a company for the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Chapman shortly afterwards received a commission as quartermaster, and was ordered to report for duty at St. Louis, Missouri. On the 26th of August the men enrolled assembled at West Andover, and organized Company C, of the Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Edward Hayes was chosen captain, and B. F. Perry first lieutenant.. The company proceeded to Camp Giddings, where Frank T. Stewart was chosen second lieutenant. The muster for pay-rolls show that eighty-eight members of the company joined for duty at West Andover. But much the larger part of them came from other localities, and were not accredited to this town. After careful consideration, aided by information obtained from 0. B. Case, who has spent much time in the investigation, we believe the whole number of soldiers who were mustered into the service of the United States for the War of the Rebellion from this township to have been sixty-five, of whom nineteen died. Of these heroic dead no public monument bears evidence. Will not the coming years permit a better record to be made in regard to perpetuating the memories of the sacred dead ? BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. AUSTIN HARMON. This gentleman became a resident of the township of Andover in the year 1825, and has had his full share of pioneer hardships. He was born in Wheatland, Genesee county, New York, on the 12th day of June, 1822, and is the third of a family of eight. His parents, Samuel and Clarissa Harmon, formerly from Berkshire county, Massachusetts, removed to Ohio, locating in Andover township, in the year 1825. The farm upon which they made settlement is now occupied by the subject of this sketch, the death of the elder Harmon occurring in the year 1834. Austin, with his brothers and sisters, were left to battle, uuaided, with the difficulties of life. Gradually step by step has he acquired his ample competence. His has not been a remarkably eventful life. In his township he has held several offices, filling them in an acceptable manner. He was united in marriage on the 17th day 218 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. of December, 1848, to Hannah L. Stillman. Two children were born to them,—Sarah Adelaide, born June 9, 1850; and Lee Samuel, born April 10, 1857. This latter yet remains beneath the family roof. On the 8th day of November, 1873, occurred the death of Mrs. Harmon. The present wife of Mr. Harmon was Eliza J. Case, of Andover, to whom he was married September 8,1875. EDWARD HARMON. Edward Harmon was the son of Samuel and Ruth Harmon, and was born in New Marlborough, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, December 21, 1815. He was the oldest child, and removed with his parents to Andover township, in this county, in the spring of 1825. His father died at the place of his first settlement., April 26,1834, and Edward, being the eldest son, was called upon to assume the chief part of the responsibilities and duties that had hitherto devolved upon his father. His education was obtained at the district school of his neighborhood, and was necessarily limited. When seventeen years of age he went to Wheatland, Genesee county, New York, at which place his father had resided a short time prior to his removal to Ohio, accomplishing the journey on foot. He spent the winter of 1822-23 at that place, and attended the winter's school. August 15,1823, he was united in marriage with Miss Eve Horder, who then resided in Andover, but who was born at Little Falls, Herkimer county, New York. From this union were born two children,—the elder, Charles E. Harmon; born February 21, 1854 ; and William Henry, born August 23, 1855. The younger child lived but a short time. The surviving son was married to Lucinda Vickery, April 16,1874, and he and his wife now reside on the farm where his father made for himself his first improvement. Edward Harmon was a man of great and untiring industry. By prudent management, assisted by exemplary habits, he amassed a fine property, the inheritance of his son, and lived a useful and honorable life. He died in Andover, July 19,1872. ROME TOWNSHIP. This township was purchased of the Connecticut land company by Henry Champion, on the 10th day of' September, 1798, he paying for the same at the rate of forty cents per acre. Elijah Crosby became agent for the sale of these lands, the last of which were sold as late as 1851. The township was, in the year 1805, surveyed by Timothy R. Hawley. This division was into lots one mile long east, and west, by one-half mile in width, and numbering fifty. SETTLEMENTS. In 1805, Elijah Crosby, of East Haddam, Middlesex county, Connecticut, came to this part of New Connecticut, and made a selection of' five hundred and fifty acres of land in lots 13 and 14, and caused two acres to be chopped on the northeast corner of lot 13. This journey was made on horseback, he being accompanied by Daniel Hall. The same year Abner Hall purchased land in lot 12, and erected on the southeast corner thereof the first log house in the township. In this he resided until the spring of 1807, when he sold a part of this land to J. D. Hall and departed the township. The next settler was Elijah Crosby, who, with his family and two young men named Hall, started for Ohio on June 18, 1806, and arrived at Rock creek on the 2d day of August following. Here the family remained until a log house was completed in the clearing above referred to, which was first occupied by the family the subsequent fall. Mr. Crosby's family at that time was as follows : Phebe, who married M. C. Wilcox (deceased); Lucinda, married John Crowell (deceased); Calvin, drowned in Grand river (this township), August, 1818; Lovina, married Daniel Hall (deceased); Elinl married Mary Way, resides at San Diego, California; Elijah (deceased); Joseph, lives in Wisconsin ; Levi, married Sarah Leonard, who died in 1846; present wife was M. C. Willey, and their place of residence is on the original location of the elder Crosby (Dwight L., the present county treasurer, is the second son of Levi Crosby); Elijah, Jr., married Elizabeth Chester, resides on farm formerly occupied by Erastus Chester ; Anna (deceased); Henry C. (deceased) ; Larissa, married John McLaren, of San Diego, California, and resides there at present. October 29, 1806, another pioneer party arrived in the township. They were also from East Haddam, Connecticut, and by name as follows: William Crowell, wife, and eight children, John Crowell and wife, David Walkley and wife, Jonathan Walkley, and Ephraim Sawyer. This party came by team the entire distance, their route being over the mountains to Pittsburgh, down the river to Beaver, and thence, via Warren, to Rome, passing their first night in this county in Orwell ; and it was on this occasion that a vast number of wolves surrounded their camp and made the woods resound with their " hair-lifting melody." Arriving in Rome, they began their life in the wilderness in the house previously erected by Hall. Resided here until the succeeding March, when Mr. Crowell and family removed to the new house -which had been constructed in the mean time, and which stood near the central portion of lot 13. William Crowell's children are William, Jr., Sybil, Jerusha, John, Ezekiel, Ruth, Susan, Emeline, and David. John Crowell, Sr., located on the south part of lot 13, building his cabin near where S. M. Scoville's house now stands. David and Jonathan Walkley began on lot 25. Joseph Hall began life on lot 12, and David, his brother, on lot 14, where their heirs still reside. The next settlers in the township were Sylvester Rogers and Henry Brown, who arrived in the winter of 1809-10. Mr. Rogers erected his habitation on the northeast corner of lot 15. And here in after-years he conducted a hotel; this was in the era of "staging," and from John Thompson, the veteran driver, we learn that there was "not such another tavern between the Ohio river and the lake." We do not find that Henry Brown, or " Uncle Henry," as he was familiarly called, ever fixed his residence on any particular piece of ground, yet he was quite a celebrity in his way, having in his possession a gun of enormous length and wonderful destructive qualities. From 1815 to 1828 we find the names of the following settlers : Asa and Lynds Tinker, lot 12; four brothers Lilian; Edward C. Dodge, lot 48 ; Calvin Church, David Rood, Simon Maltbie, Richard Miller, Samuel Ackley, Samuel Crowde, lot 11 ; Henry Hungerford, lot 47 ; Sylvester Cone, lot 22; Erastus Chester, lot 24; Andrew Champion, lot 13; James Baldwin, lot 45; Hazard Morey, lot 18 ; Edmund Richmond and Stukely Stone ; Azariah Smith, lot 26. Sereno Smith, a son of the above mentioned, was murdered on the morning of April 25,1872, while at the barn, by John Housd, a hired man, who hid the body so effectually that several days were consumed in fruitless search. Housed was convicted of the crime and sentenced to the penitentiary for life. GEOLOGICAL FORMATION, WATER-COURSES, ETC. From the " field book" used by Hawley on the occasion of the survey we extract the following: " The soil of this township is generally loam, of a clay color, mixed with gravel. The surface is mainly level, except along the streams of water," the two principal of which are Grand river and Rock creek. The former stream flows from the south through the township about one-half mile from the west line. It derives its name from the Indian Geaugah, which in that tongue signifies Grand. The course of Rock creek is through the east portion of the township, and its waters are discharged into Grand river in Morgan. Grand river was in early times a navigable stream, and crafts capable of carrying two tons and under plied its waters as far up as Windsor. The first log barn was erected by William Crowell in the year 1807, and was in size some twenty feet square. The same gentleman erected the first frame barn. This was in 1814, and the frame is still standing. In May, 1815, the first frame house was "raised." This building is still in existence. The joiner-work of this building was done by William Crowell, Jr., father of our popular county auditor. The first school-house was of logs, and was erected by Elijah Crosby and William Crowell in the fall of the year 1810, and as they each sent seven scholars, made out quite a respectable pioneer school in point of numbers, and no doubt equally so in mental endowments, if we may judge by the present representatives of these families at the county-seat. The first school taught in the township assembled in the log cabin of John Crowell in the summer of 1809. The teacher was Miss Lucinda Crosby, afterwards the wife of John Crowell. The first winter term of school was taught in the school-house above referred to in the winter HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO - 219 following its erection. William Humphrey was the teacher. The term was of few months' duration, and the wages paid were ten dollars per month. The first frame school-house was built in the summer of 1821. Its location was some eighty rods north of the residence of Johu Crowell. This was first occupied the subsequent winter by Wm. A. Otis. In this house were also held religious meetings. The township is now divided into five school districts, with school-houses and grounds valued at five thousand dollars. There are one hundred and seventy-three scholars of requisite school age, and the total amount paid teachers for the year preceding September 1, 1877, was six hundred and thirty-eight dollars and eighty cents. The first sermon delivered in Rome was in the year 1808, at the house of Elijah Crosby, by the Rev. Jonathan Leslie, of Geneva. The second services were by the Rev. Mr. Darrow, at the house of David Walkley. At this time it was .arranged to hold regular religious services on the Sabbath, and we are informed they have been kept up until the present time. The first church organization was on the 20th day of May, 1819, of the order known as Presbyterian. The Rev. Giles H. Cowles was minister in charge. The following are the members of this class: Elijah and Phebe Crosby, John and Lucinda Crowell, Daniel and Lovina Hall, Levi Bayley, Elizabeth and Prudence Walkley. Levi Bayley was appointed moderator ; Elijah Crosby and Levi Bayley, committee; and John Crowell, clerk. Of church edifices, we find that the Baptist church at the centre was erected in 1835 ; the Presbyterian, which is located one-fourth of a mile north of the centre, built in 1836 ; and the Episcopal, situated about one mile north of the centre, built in 1837. The present building at the station, occupied by the Methodists, was removed to that point from the centre in 1877, and is the one first erected by the Baptists, as above stated. The pulpit of this church is supplied by the Rev. Robert Crane, of Green, Trumbull county. The pastor at the Presbyterian church is the Rev. Henry Farwell, who is the only resident minister in the township. The first post-office was established in this township in the year 1815, at the house of Elijah Crosby, who was the first postmaster, and who continued to hold the office until 1829. The present postmaster is Leander C. Reeve, the office being located at Rome station. Another office was established at New Lyme station (also in Rome township) in 1873. This office is kept at the residence of the postmaster, Hiram Moses. ROADS. A few years ago, prior to the first settlement in Rome, a marked route was made from Austinburg to Warren, Trumbull county. This passed through this township a short distance east of the present turnpike. The first record we find of a road being officially located bears date June, 1812. This is couched in language having the merit of brevity, at least, and reads, " From Rome to Orwell." In March, 1816, another road was opened " from the centre road on a line between Daniel Hall and John Crowell's, about fnrty-five rods south of said Crowell's dwelling-house, and running one mile west." February, 1819, "from Some to New Lyme, on centre line." June, 1819, " From road by C. Chap-man's, in Morgan, to Orwell." December, 1826, " From the centre of the east line of No. 9, in the fourth range (Rome), and running west on centre line of said No. 9 to Grand river ; thence ranging two degrees northerly until it meets the centre road of No. 9 of the fifth range" (Hartsgrove). December, 1827, " From the turnpike road between lots Nos. 11 and 12, and running west to the township line." There are now some thirty-six miles of road in the township. FIRST ORCHARDS. About 1807, Joseph D. Hall and David Walkley purchased each fifteen apple-trees of 0. R. Hawley, at Austinburg, carried them on their backs to Rome, and set them out on their respective places. They grew finely, and it is related that in the course of time Mr. Hall made from the first of these trees a barrel of cider; this was stored in the cellar until it had acquired the necessary "sparkle," when the neighbors were invited to the cabin to partake of the delicious beverage, and no doubt derived fully as much pleasure drinking from the tin cups as do the fashionables of the present day as they sip from gilded goblets the same liquid under the euphonious name of champagne. Some of the trees of these pioneer orchards are still standing. FIRST SAW-MILL. This was erected by E. C. Dodge, in the year 1818. Its location was on Rock creek. In the year .1820 John Ried put in operation a small grist-mill about one mile north of the Dodge mill. In 1830 another saw-mill was built by David Walkley and Daniel Hall, on the farm of the latter. His mill was located on a small stream emptying into Grand river. The first steam-mill was put in operation by Azariah Smith, in 1853. This stood one mile south of the centre, on the southwest corner of lot No. 28. There are at present two steam-mills in the township, one at Rome station, owned by Messrs. Stiles & Smith, and another 55 at New Lyme station, owned by Hill & Smith, and a grist-mill on Rock creek, one mile south of the centre, owned by Messrs. Shultz & Jayne. The first wheat was grown by Elijah Crosby, in the year 1807. The first grinding was done for William Crowell, he transporting his grain to a mill situated in Pennport, east of Kinsman, Trumbull county. The first store was opened by Travis A. Miller, in the year 1824, on lot No 25. The present store is situated at Rome station, and is owned by G. D. Carter. The first hotel and stage-house in Rome was opened by John Crowell, in 1819. This stood on the turnpike, about one and onehalf miles from the north line of the township, on the farm now occupied by Michael Scoville. The second house of entertainment was the one erected by Sylvester Rogers, and to which reference is made in the previous pages. The present hotels are the " United States Mail," at Rome station, James Kelsey host, and one at New Lyme station, by Harvey Hill. The first marriage which occurred in the township of Rome was that of Jerusha, daughter of William Crowell, to Erastus Flower, of Lenox. This interesting event took place in Juno, 1807. T. R. Hawley, justice of the peace, of Jefferson, solemnized the marriage contract, and it is said the wedding-party was a happy one. The first physician who located in the township was Dr. Baird, who began practice in about 1826. Dr. Chester also practiced the " healing art" for a time, but at present Rome is without a physician. The first birth was that of a daughter to William Crowell and wife, in June, 1807. This was " Aunt" Emeline, who at present resides at Rock Creek, in maiden meditation, fancy free. The first male child was Harry, the eleventh child of' Elijah Crosby and wife; and it is said that Champion, the owner of the township, having promised to the first male child born in Rome fifty acres of land, promptly executed the deed to the juvenile Henry. This tract was situated about one mile south of the centre. The first death was that of the wife of John Crowell, which occurred on the 8th day of August in the year 1808. Who conducted the funeral obsequies we are unable to ascertain. The body was interred on lot No. 14, being the same ground now occupied for cemetery purposes, opposite the residence of Elijah Crosby. ORGANIZATION. In connection with the organization of the township of Rome, we find on the record of the commissioners of Ashtabula County, under date of June 2, 1828, the following: "A petition of Christopher Champlin and others, inhabitants of the township of Richfield, praying that the name of said township he changed, was presented and read, whereupon it was resolved by the board that said township, it being surveyed township No. 9, in fourth range of townships, and heretofore known by the name of Richfield, shall be hereafter known and designated by the name of Rome, and said name of Richfield be abolished." The first election, which was held on the first Monday in April, 1829, resulted in the election of the following officers : Joseph D. Hall, William Watrous, and Samuel 'Crowell, trustees; Justin Williams, township clerk and treasurer. As it may appear a little irregular that these two offices should be filled by one person, we will state that the office of treasurer at that day was principally honorary, there being bot little money handled by that officer. Charles Crowell and Justin Williams were elected constables ; Lynes Tinker, Reuben Saunders, and Silas Washburn, supervisors of highways; Sylvester Rogers and Asa Tinker, overseers of the poor; and Daniel Hall and David Walkley, fence-viewers. Justin Williams was the first justice of the peace. He was succeeded, in 1830, by Samuel Crowell, and he, in 1833, by Cyrus Richmond. The present justices of the peace are Edward Allen and H. C. Ackley, and the present township officers are as follows : Edward Nevison, S. C. McFarland, and Hiram Evans, trustees; N. J. Decker, treasurer; H. L. Chester, clerk ; A. W. Stihs, assessor; S. M. Scoville and William Smith, constables, and six supervisors. PRESENT MANUFACTORIES. A handle-factory is located at Rome station, under the management of Agent Spaulding. A butter-tub factory is at the aurae point, owned by E. A. Peck, and a steam saw-mill and cheese-box manufactory, east of New Lyme station, by Giles E. Scott. The first cheese-factory' in the township was established in the year 1869, by a stock company, who eventually sold out to Messrs. Flagg & Frisbie. The location of this factory is on the turnpike at the centre. In 1871 another factory was erected, on lot 40. This was burned in 1873. In relation to the patriotism of the citizens of Rome, we learn that when the alarm consequent upon Hull's surrender sounded throughout the meagre settlements of the Reserve, "every able-bodied man in the township, except one, responded to the call for troops." During the Rebellion Rome was represented in many a hard-fought battle. In the "roll of honor", will be found the names of 220 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO. those who gave their lives for our starry ensign, the pride of every true citizen. Mr. G. H. Crosby furnishes the following: " The Indians made frequent calls at the houses of the early settlers while hunting in this section. Some of them came to be quite well known. Being friendly, were ever ready to barter their surplus game. They were in the habit of coming in the spring to make sugar on the 'flats' of Grand river. Thin sap-troughs were constructed of white birch-hark, which was brought wioamp.em from, it is thought, Canada. One Sunday, a pleasant spring day, David Walkley and Sylvester Rogers visited their camp. The sap was running freely, but the Indians were sitting about. They asked why they were not making sugar. The reply was, Sabbat big day. No make sugar on big day.' They never visited the Indians again on Sunday." “In the days of militia training, when all the able-bodied men from eighteen to forty-five years were required by law to do two days' drill, Rome had its titled men,General Miller and Colonels Tinan and Latimer. The regimental traORinings'were several times held on lands of Sylvester Rogers, and a big time was had on these occasions." STATISTICS FOR 1877.

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow Maple-sugar Butter Cheese

196 acres. 482 “ 405 " 48 " 116 " l623 "

2.148 bushel 14,464 " 13,702 " 3,014 " 7,010 " 1,797 tons 6,030 pounds. 45,697 " 97,292 "

Population in 1870, 669. Vote for President in 1876: R. B. Hayes, 143; S. J. Tilden, 39. As Rome township was the last to retain the name of Richfield, we deem it proper to give in connection with this township history the following record of an early election held in that township. This was on April 6, 1807, at which time Eliphalet Austin was chosen chairman and Hosea Wilcox and Stephen Brown judges of election. The following are the names of those elected: Elijah Crosby, T. R. Hawley, and Sterling Mills, trustees; Noah Smith, clerk ; J. M. Case and Edmund Strong, overseers of the poor; Ambrose Humphrey and Stephen Knowlton, fence-viewers; Sterling Mills and T. R. Hawley, haters and appraisers; Cornelius Phelps, John Henderson, Noah Smith, Calvin Knowlton, James Stone, Jesse Hawley, and Daniel Hall, supervisors of highways; Joab Austin and Asa Gilbert, constables; J. M. Stone, treasurer ; and Noah Cowles, Elijah Crosby, T. R. Hawley, and Edward Friethy, justices of the peace, whose commissions were dated October 6, 1808. We obtain these facts from the book of records, now in the office of the clerk of Rome township. The records of Rome township are also to be found in this volume, from the years 1828 to 1861. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. WILLIAM CROWELL, SR.* The pioneers of the Connecticut Western Reserve, with few exceptions, were from New England, and a large majority of them from the State of Connecticut, which formerly owned the territory. The character and habits of New England people made and left a deep impression on the early settlements, which remains influential to the present day. Mr. Crowell was born at East Haddam, Middlesex county, 4742,cticut, July 10, 1771. His father, Samuel Crowell, was born at Chatham, Barnstable county, Massachusetts, March 16, 1742, and was descended from Puritan stock that emigrated from England at an early day and settled in that county. He emigrated to Connecticut, and married Jerusha Tracy, and had six children,-William, Samuel, Eliphaz, John, and Hezekial, and a daughter that died in infancy. The subject of this sketch was the oldest son, and at the age of fourteen was apprenticed to a Mr. Mack to learn the joiner's trade, and served the full term of seven years. He was married to Ruth Peck, August 26, 1792, and had nine children, one of whom died in infancy, and after his removal to Ohio the number was increased to fourteen ; only two of whom are now living;- a son in the city of Cleveland and a daughter at Rock Creek. The first settlers of the Western Reserve were generally intelligent and enterprising men, and capable of enduring the fatigues, hardships, and privations of a new country, which they were compelled to bear. On his journey to Ohio he was in company with two other families, and they traveled in covered wagons drawn by oxen, and were more than forty days on the way. They traveled through Pennsylvania, over the mountains, to Pittsburgh, and thence to Ohio, and reached the end of their long journey the last of November, 1806. From Bristol to Rome, * Prepared by Hon. John Crowell, Cleveland, Ohio. a distance of more than twenty miles, there was an unbroken wilderness, without a house to shelter them, and they were obliged to camp out for the night in the most primitive style. The darkness and gloom of that November night were rendered more hideous to the weary travelers by wolves howling around the campfire, and seeming to take offense at the intrusion of strangers upon their ancient domain, occupied in common by savage beasts and men for unnumbered generations. The log cabin which had been built for them, and in which they spent the winter, stoostoner the dwelling-house of the late Joseph D. Hall. The building, not a large one for three families, was divided by a atone wall five or six feet high, and extending partly across the room. On each side of the wall fires were built for comfort and convenience, and over these an opening was left in the roof for the smoke to escape. One part of the log cabin thus fitted up was occupied by Mr. Crowell and his family (the writer of this was one of them), and the other part by the two families already mentioned. With the thermometer at zero, the apartments of the cabin could not be esteemed very extravagant or luxurious by the most prudent and economical. In the spring Mr. Crowell built a log house on his farm, and at once commenced clearing it up for cultivation. He soon found employment at his trade in the older settlements, where frame houses soon took the place of log cabins, not only in different parts of this county but in the adjoining counties, for he was esteemed a very good workman at his trade. His family lived upon his farm at Rome, to which he retired in later life, and where be died July 15, 1852, at the age of eighty years. He became a member of the Protestant Episcopal church when the diocese of Ohio was organized, and was frequently a member of the diocesan convention, in the time of Bishop Chase, and when the bishop resigned voted to accept his resignation, and also in favor of the election of his successor, Bishop McIlvaine, whom he esteemed very highly as a great and good man. Bishop Chase speaks of him very kindly in his " Reminiscences," published several years before his death; and both of the bishops were always his welcome guests in their diocesan visitations. He was a very earnest and devoted member of that communion, and organized a parish and built a church in the neighborhood of his residence, and in the graveyard attached to it his remains now repose. His wife survived him several years, and died at the age of eighty-four, June 12, 1856, and was laid his side. ELIJAH CROSBY was born in East Haddam, Middlesex county, Connecticut, on the 14th day of February, 1805. He ie a younger brother of Levi Crosby. The subject of the present sketch was married on the 10th of October, 1831, to Elizabeth L., daughter of Deacon Erastus and Lydia Williams Chester, formerly of Colchester, New London county, Connecticut, and who arrived in Rome township, this county, on June 1, 1827, where the father died on March 9, 1877, and the mother, August 30, 1857. Mr. Elijah Crosby has held many township offices, and has filled them with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. This couple became members of the Presbyterian church in 1831, and have been since that time active and consistent members. The occupations of his life have been that of house-building, which avocation he followed during the early years of his life, and farming, of which class he has for years been an industrious and honored member. Is in politics thoroughly Republican. The children of Mr. Crosby, with dates of birth and marriage, are given below, viz.: Lydia A., born December 23, 1832, married to J. W. Springer, June 3, 1861 ; Frank E., born July 28, 1834, married to Emma Wood, September 12, 1863; Orietta M., born August 5, 1836, married Oliver Smith, August 31, 1856; Elliot M., born February 28, 1839, married Betsey Crowell, August 20, 1865, died January 5, 1876; Albert C., born January 24, 1842, married Sylvia Fobes, December 23, 1870 ; Sarah E., born June 2, 1844, married E. J. Crowell, December 16, 1866; Phebe C., born February 22, 1847, died October 29, 1876, unmarried ; Alice L., born April 22, 1850 ; Carrie J., born November 18, 1856, married E. H. Stiles, December 25, 1877. LEVI CROSBY, a fine view of whose farm, residence, and pleasant surroundings, with portraits, appears in another portion of this work, was born in East Haddam, Middlesex county, Connecticut, on the 2d day of April, 1803. His father, Elijah Crosby, was born in the township and county above given; May 13, 1764. His mother was Phoebe Church, and the date of her birth was October 7, 1767. They were married October 31,1787, and settled in Rome township in the month of August, 1806. Here the father died July 30, 1835, and the mother, July 30, 1846. The subject of the present sketch was, on the 12th day of February, 1832, united in marriage to Miss Sarah Leonard, whose place of nativity was Warren, Herki-   HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO - 221   mer county, New York. The result of this marriage was tour children; the dates of whose several births are as follows: Giles H., born January 19, 1833, married October 5, 1862; Dwight L., born November 21, 1835, married November 16, 1864; Maria J., born March 16, 1840, married January 3, 1863; and Jane R, who was burn on the 10th day of October, 1844, and was married on the 24th day of September, 1866. The wife of Levi Crosby died in January, 1846, and en December S, 1851, he was again married, to Mrs. M. C. Willey. After the death of his father, Levi was appointed anent for the sale of the lands yet remaining unsold in Rome township. He was for many years engaged in the mercantile and produce business in connection with farming, but of late has given up everything else and is, as ire expresses himself, "only an honest tiller of the soil." He is eminently worthy of u place among the pioneer fathers of Ashtabula County, and has ever been foremost in promoting the general growth of his adopted home. In politics Mr. Crosby is a stanch Republican, having been first a Free-Sailer and afterwards a Whig. Giles H., the eldest son of this gentleman, has turned his attention somewhat to inventing. Is the patentee of the iron-bob sled bearing his name, and has recently obtained letters patent on a buggy wheel, which is quite superior, we believe, in souse respects to anything that has preceded it.   PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP.   ORIGINALLY this township was included in the limits of Ashtabula, and it was not until January 7, 1838, that the territory now under consideration was, by order of the county commissioners, detached from that township, and created a new one, to be known as township No. 12 of the third range.   ORGANIZATION.   On July 4, 1838, this township was regularly organised and an election for township officers held, the result of which is shown by the following copy of the poll-book used on the occasion: "At a meeting of tho electors of Plymouth township holden at the Mouse occupied for school purposes, standing near the residence of Russel A. Smith, in said township, on the 4th, day of July, A.D. 1838, Robert Seymour, Samuel Burnet, and Josiah Allen were chosen judges, and Levi P. Blakeslee and Wells Blakeslee clerks of said election, who, being duly sworn according to law, proceeded to elect the following township officers: Samuel Burnet, Andrew Willey, and William Stewart. trustees Levi P. Blakeslee towship dork; Bennet Seymour, treasurer; Elias C. Upson and William Foster, overseers of poor; Joseph Mann, James Hall, and Solomon A. Simone, fence-viewers; Mcrrit M. Mann, constable; Samuel Burnet, William Stewart, Joseph Mann, Bennet Seymour, Solomon A. Simons, Elias C. Upson, amid Merrit M. Mann, as supervisors." (The number of electors is not given.)   The first justice of the peaco was Warner Mann, who was elected on the 9th day of November, 1838, his commission bearing date November 26, 1838. This election was held at the house of the justice elect. Mr. Mann was succeeded by Josiah Allen, and he by Wells Blakeslee,. Previous to the expiration of Mann's commission, however, a second justice was ordered for the township, and Daniel Hubbard was the first to fill the office. Levi P. Blakeslee succeeded him, and was in rum succeeded by Samuel Burnet.   This township was originally owned by Nehemiah Hubbard, of Middletown, Middlesex county, Connecticut, Hon. Matthew Hubbard, who located in Ashtabula in 1884, being agent for the proprietor.   THE FIRST SETTLEMENTS within the present limits of the township were as follows: In 1804 or 1805, William Thompson and Thomas McGabbe, with families, located on lot number five. In the spring of 1806, Samuel White began improvements on two hundred acres upon the north line of the township. Fits' woolen-factory was subsequently established on this lot, which is now owned by Ezra Bonnell, who Lass in process of erection a grist-mill, on the old factory site. David Burnet settled on lot number twelve, aLso in spring of 1806; this lot was afterwards owned by Wells Blakeslee; Oliver Gary is the present occupant. Both White and Buruct came from Hubbard, Trumbull county. In 1807, Thomas Gordon purchased two hundred and forty acres in lot number six, and in the spring of 1808 took possession of the same with his family. William Foster, of Socket's Harbor, New York, arrived in the township in 1810, locating on lot number ten. His mode of transit was by small boat to Ashtabula, at Niagara Falls he hired a team to haul his boat some seven nulls around the falls. Captain Moses Hall emigrated from Connecticut in 1811, and began the life of a pioneer on the northwest corner lot. In tho year 1811 a number of families arrived from Plymouth Hollow, Litchfield county, Connecticut, and settled in this township. They were, so far as we are able to learn at so late a date, Zadoe and Warner Mann, John and Ashur Blakeslee, Lynus Hall, Titus Seymour, David Warren, and Elias C. Upson. There are doubtless others, but whose names we have been unable to obtain.   The first log house was erected in 1804 or 1805, on lot number five, by William Thompson, the "oldest inhabitant" who removed from the township in the year 1807.   The first orchard was planted by Samuel White in the spring of 1807. It was located on his farm, near the laud, and consisted of forty trees. They first bore fruit in 1811, which was, without doubt, the first produced within the territory composing the townships of Plymouths and Ashtabula. Captain Moses Hall was, we believe, the owner of the ,,shard at this time, and it is said he distributed nearly the entire yield of the orchard among the sick of the township.   ROADS.   Upon the first settlement of the Plymouth pioneers, the only road was the "girdled" one laid out by the Connecticut land company, running from Kelloggsville, via Sheffield, through Plymouth, and west through Saybrook, Austinburg, etc., terminating at or neat Cleveland. The first read authorized by county commissioners, after Plymouth became a separate township, was in June, 1842, which began on the Jefferson and Ashtabula road, at William Willard's northwest corer, thence east on lust nines to Denmark road.   March, 1844, another road was surveyed, running from William Stewart's, northeast and north, to the road :south of Amos Moses in Kingsville.   March, 1850, the last one was established, from the southwest corner of the township north to the turnpike, and from the west line of tho township, at the northwest corner of lot number eighty, easterly to the plank-road.   TOPOGRAPHY.   Much of the western portion of the township is of high rolling ground, while in the southern part extensive marches prevail, the largest of which is some three miles in leugth, and averaging, perhaps, three-quarters of a mile in width; its waters, flowing westerly, are discharged into Grand river, in Austinburg. South of the "Big marsh" lie two smaller ones, which are separated by a natural roadway, over which the mail was carried to Jefferson until the opening of the Franklin division of the Lake Shore railroad. The waters of these two marshes flow, one easterly, into Ashtabula creek, the other westerly, into Grand river.   STREAMS.   These, aside from Ashtabula creek, which forms a portion of the northern boundary of the township, are Hubbard's run, which rises principally from springs in Saybrook, and forms another part of the northern boundary, uniting with Ashtabula creek, about one milt southeast of the village of Ashtabula. Smith creek, which Leads in the southern part of the township, runs easterly, uniting with the waters of "Little marsh," and finally reaches Ashtabula creek in Sheffield.   The first marriage occurred in 1810, at the residence of Captain Manoah Hubbard, the contracting parties being his daughter, Miss Julia, and Mr. Walker Richmond, of New York.   The first white child born in Plymouth was a son to Daniel Burnet, in 1807, and the first death was, without doubt, a widow lady named Hanan, who died in the spring of 1807.   The first school-house was built in the summer of 1810. It was of logs, and stood in the "hollow," a short distance north of the present cemetery, on the farm formerly owned by Ash-or Blakeslee, and the first school taught therein was in the succeeding winter, by Warner Mann. There were twelve scholars in attendance, the parents paying each his share of the teacher's salary, which was, undoubtedly, a trifling sum.   222 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO.   The first saw-mill was erected in 1809, by Thomas Gordon, on the site where was afterwards located a woolen-mill. In the spring of 1831, Emmerson Gibbs put in operation a carding-machine, and in the fall of the same year cloth-dressing machinery. The next season a mill for grinding corn was also placed in the same building. In 1839 this site was purchased by Messrs. Hubbel & Kenney, and a woolen-factory of one hundred and eighty spindles established. This was destroyed by fire on the night of December 24, 1847.   The first frame house was built by Captain Moses Hall, on the northwest corner lot; the date we are unable to ascertain. And the first frame school-house was erected in the spring of 1847, by subscription; its location was some three-quarters of a mile north of the centre.   The first church organization was that of the Episcopal denomination, April 28, 1836. However, services were held by all denominations, from the time of the first settlements, at the houses of the settlers, and at the frame school-house mentioned above. There are now two fine church edifices in the township. The Episcopal, which is located some half-mile east of the centre, was erected in 1841, and the Methodist at the centre, which was not finished till perhaps 1874. The first post-office, and in fact the only one in the township, was established June 16, 1846. William W. Mann was the first postmaster, serving twelve years. The present postmaster is H. J. B. Seymour, whose office is situated at the depot.   The first store was established in 1849, by William W. Mann, in a building then standing between the school-house and the present residence of Charles Wright. Mr. Mann continued in trade some ten years in Plymouth, removing first to East Ashtabula, where he engaged in the mercantile business for two years more, and then moved to his present place of business, corner Centre and Park streets, Ashtabula. In 1824, and for the five years subsequently, he was engaged as mail boy for the Recorder, published in Ashtabula, which paper was, we believe, the first one published in Ashtabula County.   Peter La Grange also conducted a store in Plymouth for some years, though at present there is nothing of the kind, we believe, in the township.   Plymouth has been largely devoted to the manufacture of butter and cheese, principally by individuals. There are doubtless many farmers in the township entitled to mention in this connection, among whom are the following, who have for years kept on the average at least thirty cows each : they are B. P. Mann, Levi P. Blakeslee, Cornelius Morgan, Andrew Willey, and H. C. Graham. In 1872 a small factory was started by D. Clump, for the manufacture of cheese, he only continuing the business in this township one year. The present Plymouth Ridge cheese-factory began operations in the spring of 1875. The location is on the farm of the proprietor, W. B. Johnson (lot number six), from whom we learn that the first year he manufactured the milk from one hundred cows, and his report for that year shows the total number of pounds of milk received was 377,214; number of pounds of cheese made, 34,338; amount of cash received for same, $3444 ; number of pounds of milk to make a pound of cheese, 10; average price per pound of cheese, 10 cents, net ; to patrons, 9 cents.   During the year 1877 the business has been about the same as first year, cheese bringing better prices, however.   The following shows the present condition of schools, class statistics, etc., for 1877:   Number of school-houses in township, 7; valuation, $4000; whole amount paid teachers, $1035 ; total enumeration of scholars, 214.   ASSESSORS' RETURNS.

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow Butter Cheese Maple-sugar

269 acres 648 " 301 " 128 “ 258 “ 1591"

2,557 bushels. 18,469 " 18,225 " 5,739 " 11,465 " 1,840 tons 24,145 pounds. 52,733 " 11,217 "

The population in 1870 was 657, and the secretary of state's report shows that in 1876 Rutherford B. Hayes received 22 votes and S. J. Tilden 61.   During the Rebellion Plymouth sent many of her brave sons to the front in support of the flag and defense of the integrity of the nation, having representatives in the glorious old Twenty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, the One hundred cod Fifth, and doubtless other organizations. They gave to their State and the Union their bravest efforts and much of their best blood.   LENOX TOWNSHIP.   No. 10 of the third range of the Connecticut Western Reserve was first named Millerstown, in honor of Ashur Miller, of Middletown, Connecticut, who was originally the owner of a goodly portion of the lands contained within the present boundary lines of the township. In 1843 the name of Lenox was substituted. During the year 1796 the four eastern meridians of the Reserve were established from its south line to Lake Erie, being the parallel of 41 degrees north latitude. The members composing the surveying-party were, without doubt, the first white persons in the township.   Lenox was not among those townships where the immigrants first commenced settlement, owing, no doubt, to a defect in title. The following from the county records shows the several ownerships :   On September 5, 1795, the State of Connecticut deeded this township entire to Oliver Phelps, as agent for the Connecticut land company. November 8, 1798, the trustees of the Connecticut land company deeded the township with other lands to Gideon Granger, Jr., and Oliver Phelps, who, on March 4, 1800, deeded the south part of the township, consisting of twelve thousand six hundred and seventy-eight acres, to Ashur Miller ; at the same time Miller gave quitclaim-deed of the remaining lands in the township, being two thousand six hundred and fifty-nine acres, or the northern part of same, in favor of Oliver Phelps, who, on the 15th of April, 1801, gave a mortgage-deed of the saute land (two thousand six hundred and fifty-nine acres) to the State of Connecticut ; and on May 10, 1809, the State of Connecticut executed a quitclaim-deed to Gideon Granger, Jr., whereby the ownership of the two thousand six hundred and fifty-nine acres of land vested in him and his heirs forever. Ashur Miller gave a mortgage of the south twelve thousand six hundred and seventy-eight acres to the State of Connecticut, August 4, 1800 ; and on August 8, 1808, the State of Connecticut gave quitclaim-deed in favor of Burr Gilbert, and for the same tract Gilbert gave a mortgage in return. December 15, 1844, the State of Connecticut gave another quitclaim of the same twelve thousand six hundred and seventy-eight acres to Solomon, Alpha, and Martin Rockwell, the decree of foreclosure against Miller having been determined at the November term of the court of common pleas of Ashtabula County.   The first dwelling of any description in Lenox township was made by first fixing forked posts in the wound. On those rested a pole for a ridge, and over it were stretched long strips of bark as a roof. These served also for sides. One end was covered with the same material, while at the front was built the fire, which not only served to warm the occupants, but also to keep away the wild animals with which the forest abounded and the mosquitoes, who, no doubt, were as persistent in presenting their bills then as now. This rude cabin was built by Lisle Asque, and first occupied by him and his family (consisting of wife and four small children) on the night of June 10, 1807. Setting to work, they soon erected the first log house in the township, and after a six weeks' sojourn in the bark hut removed to their new house, which stood near the spot now occupied by the frame dwelling of Samuel Asque. Lisle Asque died in October, 1854, and Mrs. Asque in July, 1864. The residence referred to above stood on the bank of Asque creek, on the Jefferson road. Lisle Asque emigrated from Maryland, on the Chesapeake bay. In 1806 and 1807 a considerable number of farmers and mechanics removed from the city of Washington, D. C., and vicinity, to Lenox and Jefferson. They all, however, after a few years' sojourn in the wilderness, took their departure for other and perhaps more congenial localities, except Mr. Asque. A short time after Christopher Randall arrived in the township, with his family, and settled on an adjoining piece of land, residing there some six years. The same season Thomas Johnson and James Mace, with their families, located on the Granger tract, some three miles southwest of Asque and Randall's. Johnson remained some three years, while Mace only stopped a few weeks. These four families constitute the first early pioneers in Lenox, though   HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO - 223   several parties made previous purchases of land in the township, never, however, occupying the same. Of those who subsequently became residents of Lenox, we find Erastus Oliver and Almon Fowler, Jotham, Cyrus, and Isaac Williams, Benajah and Almerin House, E. S. and Sylvester Gleason, James and Jonathan I Bailey, Justice Markham, Chauncey French, Asa Hartshorn, Sylvanus Norton, Horace Little, — Gun, 0. Elmore, 0. Bacon, A. Moshier, ____ Van Wormer, Thomas Holeman and family, Hiram Walcott, ____ Ball, John Halsted, Jew Wheeler, James Ray, A. Dodge, O. King, J. Lawson, D. Hurlbert, L. Carter, J. Udell, the Churches, and doubtless there were others whose names we are unable to obtain at this late date.   On the 22d day of April, 1809, occurred the first marriage solemnized in the township; this was an event for our little settlement. The parties to this wedding were Nicholas Miller, of Jefferson, and Miss Sally, daughter of Christopher Randall of former mention. Who made the twain of one flesh tradition does not state. Another incident in our annals of pioneer life took place on the 12th day of October, 1810, when a little baby-girl came into the family of Lisle Asque, demanding and no doubt receiving the customary amount of attention accorded the baby everywhere. She afterwards became the wife of Reuben Morrison, of Jefferson. The succeeding year two diminutive specimens of the masculine persuasion put in an appearance at the settlement. The first was born to Nicholas Miller and wife, February 5, 1841, and the second on the 3d of May, same year, to Christopher Randall and wife. As they were " only boys," of course no one will be interested in knowing " whither they went or how they fared." Upon the Sunday succeeding that upon which Hull the traitor surrendered Detroit and its defenses to the red coats and their Indian allies, the first sermon was delivered in the township by Rev. Jacob Young, of the Methodist connection, at the house of Lisle Asque. This was on the evening of Augnst 23, 1812.   As an illustration of slow transit in these early days, it in stated that in May succeeding their settlement in Lenox, Lisle Asque and James Mace, of this, and three settlers of Jefferson township, started for Warren, Trumbull county, for supplies (Calvin Pease, Granger's general agent, residing there). Going first to Austinburg, they obtained a canoe and proceeded up Grand river to Morgan. Procuring there a flat-boat, they continued up the river as far, it is thought, as Mesopotamia, where, leaving their boat, they struck out through the woods for Warren. Soon losing their way, however, they wandered, without food, two days, and had well-nigh ceased to hope, when one more trial brought them to a honse, and they were saved. After suitable rest they proceeded on their way, and in due time arrived at Warren, without further incident. But they were doomed to disappointment, as no supplies were there to be obtained. They were therefore obliged to make a further journey to Poland, now Mahoning county. Teams were there loaded with the necessary provision and forwarded to their boat, and thence home, where they arrived after an absence of thirteen days. Now the same journey could be performed in less than one-half that number of hours. To multiply description of the constantly-recurring privations and discomforts attending the first settlement of' a country—sufferings constituting the almost exclusive patrimony of the hardy pioneer—would be but to tell again what has been a thousand times unexceptionally told.   In 1807 the subdivision of the area south of the Granger tract into one-hundred-acre lots was consummated by T. R. Hawley. The survey of the Rockwell tract was made by Charles Parker, in 1808 or 1809, while the ownership was vested in Ashur Miller. In the month of June, 1811, Erastus N. House and Levi French, from Sandisfield, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, made a settlement on the Rockwell tract. In the fall of the year 1811, Mr. House put up a log dwelling near the southwest corner of lot No. 24, which was the first house in this portion of the township. On the 24th of March, 1842, Mr. House was married to Sybil, daughter of William Crowell, of Rome. Mr. French and family settled on the land still occupied by the family. During the years 1814 and 1845, Benjamin Waters, Joseph Walling, Jared Merrells, and Seth Smith, with their families, were the principal additions to the population.   ROADS.   March, 1813. A road was located from Lisle Asque's to the centre of Mills. ford (now Dorset).   August, 1817. Road from a point on the west line, between lots 30 and 31, easterly to centre; goes out of township between lots 30 and 31.   March, 1818. Alteration of Orton Elmore's road, beginning west from the north and south road, running by residence E. N. Howie, then east to said north and south road, thence east by so much south as to intersect the road at lot No. 24.   Same date. From a corner-post marked 37-34 northeasterly, on line of lots, to diagonal road leading from No. 9 in first range to Jefferson.   December, 1820. From a stake 39-31 north till it intersects the road leading by Lisle Asque's.   - 56 -   Same date.. From east line at corner of lots 11 and 12 to west line.   June, 1822. From south line of township, running north 30̊ west on line of lots to its intersection with road leading from Morgan to Jefferson.   December, 1826. From west line of Lenox, at southeast corner of lot No. 60 in Morgan, easterly to centre of Lenox, thence cast on line of lots to east line of township.   June, 1827. State road running through the townships of Lenox, New Lyme, and Colebrook.   The first death in the township was that of Mrs. Sybil House, which occurred July 31, 1818. The body was interred in the cemetery located near the centre, and on lot No. 36. The officiating minister was undoubtedly Rev. Giles Cowles, of Austinburg. The first orchards were doubtless planted in 1808 ; the first. by Lisle Asque, on lands now occupied by Samuel Asque, and the second about same time, by Christopher Randall, on the lot now owned by B. L. Asque, Sr. There were perhaps twenty-three trots in each collection.   The first wheat was two acres sown by Asque, near the orchard lot, in 1808. He also planted two acres of corn and a few potatoes at the same time. It was not until 1818 that a school-house was erected in Lenox. The building was of logs, and stood near where is now the house built by Ira French, but owned by Jacob Tisch. Asaneth Waters taught the first term in this house during the summer of 1818. A second term was taught the succeeding winter, in the same building, by N. A. Atkins. The first frame school-house was built in the year 1821, on the premises of Ira French. It stood south of his house, on the west side of the centre road. This building was also used for a meeting-house. The first saw-mill was built in the fall of 1819, by Ira French, a short distance southeast of the present Beetle mill. A small grist-mill was also started about this time by N. A. Atkins.   On the 13th day of December, 1819, the commissioners of Ashtabula County made an organization of the township, and ordered an election to be held on December 27. It did not, however, occur until the 17th day of January, 1820. The following copy of the record shows the result : " Be it ever remembered that on Monday, the 17th day of January, in the year of our Lord 1820, the electors of the township of Lenox held their first township election. Meeting opened in due time and form. Nominated E. N. House chairman, Erastus Fowler and Levi French judges. Poll opened, and proceeded to ballot. Poll closed at four o'clock. Found elected Benjamin Waters, Comfort Gunn, and Erastus Fowler trustees; Levi French, clerk." On April 3, 1820, the first regular township election was held at the house of Erastus Fowler. Ira French, John Lawson, and Benjamin Waters were chosen trustees ; N. A. Atkins, clerk ; Orren Elmore, treasurer ; T. Waters, constable ; there were thirty-one votes east. The first justice was Levi French, who was elected. March 27, 1820, and re-elected March 20, 1823. In 1826, Benjamin Waters was elected the second justice of the peace. After him came Erastus Fowler, who was succeeded by T. H. C. Kingsbury. Then Samuel Plumb, and after him J. 0. Crosby, who served twelve years. Nelson French succeeded him ; served two terms, when M. S. Jewett was elected ; this was in 1866. Gatos Hyde, taking his place in 1869, served one term, when M. S. Jewett was again elected, and is still the incumbent. A second justice was authorized some years since, and H. S. Smith is the present incumbent. At the presidential election held November 3, 1820, there were polled thirteen votes. The vote for President in 1876, as shown by the report of the secretary of state, was—R. B. Hayes, one hundred and seventy-seven. S. J. Tilden, forty-two.   The first Sabbath-school was established probably as early as 1830. William Beach, of' the Congregational communion, was its first superintendent, the school convening in the school-house on French's land before mentioned,—which, by the way, was called the Synagogue.   The first church organization occurred in the year 1826, the Rev. _____ Carr, Methodist, forming a small class. In 1829 the Free-Will Baptists formed a class of seven members, under the supervision of Elder John Chauncey.   The first physician who made a permanent stop in the township was Z. Smalley, who settled in 1835, and remained until his death, which occurred in 1843. In the years 1835 and 1836 a meeting-house frame was raised and inclosed. It was located near the southwest corner of lot No. 24. It was completed in 1843, and dedicated on the 11th day of October of that year by Rev. Ira Norris, of the Methodist denomination. M. W. Alfred was the first stated preacher. He was also a doctor.   In the spring of 1833 the first temperance society was formed, with eighty-five members. The first post-office in Lenox must have been established some time in the early part of the year 1825, as the first commission for a postmaster was issued to Col. House, and bears date June 8 of that year. In the year 1837 James Ray converted his dwelling into a tavern, soon, however, resigning the position of landlord to his son, J. M., who furnished entertainment for the traveling public a term of years. The first select school was taught in the fall of 1841,   224 - HISTORY OF ASHTABULA COUNTY, OHIO.   by M. R. Atkins, a graduate of Allegheny college. This school was kept up until about January, 1844, when Mr. Atkins removed to Jefferson, to resume there the same occupation.   The first cider-mill was erected by Chauncey French and Erastus Fowler, in about 1838-39, on lot No. 36, near where now stands the house owned by Mrs. Bentley. That Lenox may have credit for some of the " iniquitous'. institutions, we must go back a little from the regular chronological order. In about 1820 there was built and put into operation on lot 25, by John Udell and Sylvanus Merrill, a small distillery for the manufacture of whisky. It was " in blast" some two years, but just how many gallons of the " simmering compound of liquid devils" were made we are unable to state, but doubtless enough for the good of the neighborhood.   On the evening of June 21, 1823, Lenox was visited by a full-grown hurricane, which uprooted the forest-trees on a strip some sixty rods wide and perhaps three miles long. From a description written by an eye-witness we quote: "On moved the spirit of the storm, lowering and terrific as the dark, gloomy Erebus of ancient, classic Greece. Soon heaven's dread artillery announced the coming on of elemental strife, the windows of' heaven were opened,' and such a terrible display was made of the mighty workings of heaven's own machinery ait might well appall the stoutest hearts. The lightning was an almost incessant flash, the thunder a ceaseless peal, the winds roaring terribly, while added to this was the crash of the towering forest-trees as, uptorn from their roots, twisted and broken, they were dashed to earth by the terrific gale."   In relation to the soil of this township, we learn that it is not perhaps so well adapted to grain-raising as some other portions of the county; yet for grazing it excels many townships in the county, and taking the average, it is perhaps as productive as the majority of the other districts in Ashtabula County. Dairying has largely predominated for many years, followed principally by individuals until the year 18-41, when Abiather Fowler inaugurated the factory system. His first efforts were in a small way, only working the milk of a few cows belonging to his near neighbors, gradually increasing his business until, in 1845 (when he closed out, in consequence of an extensive drought), he had five hundred cows contributing. From the time of the closing of the Fowler factory individuals again made their own cheese until 1861, when John Chapin established a factory on lot No. 55, opposite his house. The first year he made some six tons, which he sold for eight cents per pound. This factory continued in operation till the fall of 1876. The average amount produced has been some sixteen tons per year. In 1863, William De Witt started another factory in the southwest part of the township, subsequently removing to the State road. We are unable to give the statistics in relation to this factory, further than the fact that it closed in the fall of 1873. The present factory was established in the year 1870, by T. B. Wire. We are unable to obtain the amount manufactured the first year ; but in 1876 the number of pounds of milk received was :4,092,053, from which 300,915 pounds of cheese were made, and sold for the sum of $29,417.17.   In the year 1835 was opened the first store. The proprietors were Messrs. Wing & Carpenter, of New York. The present store is owned by Messrs. Cook & Watson, who keep a general stock aggregating some six thousand dollars. Yearly sales, from thirty to thirty-five thousand dollars. There are at West Lenox a number of industries represented,—wagon-factory, manufacturing shoe-shop, blacksmith-shop, etc.   The first seed drill owned in Lenox was purchased by John Chapin on March 20, 1866; on that and the succeeding day he drilled in sixteen acres of oats. The August and September following he drilled in with the same machine one hundred and fifty acres of wheat.   The township boasts of a fine musical organization, by name the " King Cornet-Band." The first organization of this " institution" was in 1861, under the leadership of Prof. H. M. King. They S0011 afterwards enlisted under Captain W. R. Allen as a brigade band, in General Lane's division. Embarked for Kansas, but on arrival at Chicago found an order from the secretary of war, by which they were sent home. Afterwards a portion of the band went to Governor's island and went into training for the regular service. Returned home in 1863, and in the fall of 1864 enlisted as private soldiers in Captain S. 41. Cook's company of the Fiftieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, en route for the front. They were retained at Columbus, by order of General Heintzelman, as a post band, and remained at Todd barracks until the close of the war. The band now numbers sixteen players, but of the original organization but two remain, viz., Prof. King and Captain Cook.   Lenox Grange, No. 1299, was organized, January 18, 1877, by Deputy V. N. Stone. The charter members were J. M. Ray, Delos Smith, T. B. Wire, J. A. McNutt, T. A. Thatcher, William Ashley, H. B. Woodruff, J. 0. Holman, John Forrest, and Jacob Tisch, with their respective wives. The officers are J. M. Ray; Master ; Delos Smith, Overseer ; T. B. Wire, Lecturer ; J. A. McNutt, Stew ard ; T. A. Thatcher, Assistant Steward ; William Ashley, Chaplain ; H. B. Woodruff, Treas. ; J. 0. Holman, Sec. ; J. Forrest, Gate-Keeper ; Mrs. Jane Ray, Ceres; Mrs. B. J. Ashley, Pomona ; Mrs. McNutt, Flora ; Mrs. Woodruff, Assistant Steward. Annual meetings, second and fourth Thursdays of each month.   There are now residing in the township three ladies of notabie longevity, viz.: Mrs. Lydia Bell, who was ninety-nine years of age in April, 1878; Mrs. Lydia Rogers, probably ninety-three, though there seems some difference of opinion as to her exact age; and Mrs. Rebecca Chapin, aged ninety-two ; another, aged ninety (Mrs. Charlotte Williams), has recently removed to Kansas. , The population of Lenox in 1870 was seven hundred and fifty-two, and from the records of Auditor Crowell we learn that in 1876 there were:

Wheat Oats Corn Potatoes Orcharding Meadow (hay) Cultivated land Pasturage land Woodland Butter Cheese Maple-sugar

180 acres. 711 " 452 " 89 " 198 " 1864 "

1,473 bushels 18,326 " 14.780 “ 6,166 " 16,737 " 2,540 tons. 3,506 acres. 6,263 " 2,646 " 35,595 pounds. 332,755 " 11,836 "

There were eight school-houses in the township, valued at forty-six hundred dollars, with a total enumeration of two hundred and twenty-eight scholars.   With a few incidents we close the history of Lenox. The first is related of the freaks of a horse and his master, in which the noble animal showed an unheard-of penchant for getting up in the world. The affair occurred in the barn of E. N. House, Esq. The horse was young, skittish, and otherwise vicious, and in the progress of a " business interview" between him and his keeper unaccountable demonstrations occurred which produced a misunderstanding between the parties, followed by a rather boisterous struggle of the belligerents. This was suddenly concluded by the escape of the beast up a steep flight of stairs. Once in the hay-loft, the " trouble began." The floor giving way precipitated his head and shoulders earthward, from which critical position he was rescued by the aid of several men, though perhaps not a " wiser or better" horse, yet it must be admitted of more experience. Another story, and one which will please the " juveniles" better because there is a " bear" in it, runs as follows: Justine Markham, then resident in Lenox (afterwards removing to Saybrook), was in the woods one day with a gun of somewhat doubtful character, so far as its destructive properties were concerned. lending a bear, he attempted to discharge his gun ; but whether it were with it as with the celebrated pistol of the immortal Hudibras,—   " Pallas came in shape of rust, And 'twist the spring and hammer thrust Her Gorgan shield,"— . . .   or that the fire genii, slumbering peacefully in the gun-flint, could not be roused sufficiently to give out the igniting spark, is not known, but certain it is young Justice laid aside his gun, hung his hat thereon, procured the most primitive of weapons, a club, and " made at" Bruin with commendable alacrity. Whether the bear was unable, or fearless, and not caring to outrun his adversary, tradition does inform us. Bruin did, however, sustain for a length of time quite an able running fight, but man conquered,—the bear was slain. Ere this was effected the contest had been so long kept up and the route traveled so devious that it was with much difficulty, and then not until after some days devoted to the search, that he found his hat and gun. At the residents of Dr. Asque we were shown a relic of the by-gone in the shape of a gun, the extreme length of which is seven feet seven inches, the barrel alone being six feet one inch. This lengthy piece of ordnance was brought from Maryland by Lisle Asque, and was used by him in the hunting excursions of the period in which he flourished. It is related of him that he has killed with this gun forty-seven wild turkeys at thirteen shots, killing at one shot nine, and at another six. Many other "incidents" are related, but do not possess sufficient merit to be given a place in this history.   As a just tribute to the patriotism of the citizens of Lenox, we beg leave to say that we think no township in the county of equal population furnished more soldiers during the " Great Rebellion" than did little Lenox, not only on the first but subsequent calls for troops. The number who went were ninety on the several calls for volunteers, twenty-two of whom never returned, and several came home to die or maimed and broken in health and constitution. For their efficiency, bravery, and general good conduct while in service, we think they rank second to none upon the Western Reserve. We wish, to say in closing that we were greatly aided in our labors of collecting the early items of history of Lenox by the manuscripts prepared by .Josiah Atkins in 1847, which we were permitted access to through the kindness of Mrs. J. M. Ray. Our acknowledgments are also due N. S. Jewett, Esq., S. H. Cook, and others for material aid in our labors.