470 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

INDIANS.

(RETURN TO THE TITLE PAGE)

1814. Anything like authentic record of these people is very meagre. They trailed along the river, and had stopping places or camps—one near the lower burial ground, by the Cuyahoga, and on the sand knoll across the river, south, a place for their dead. The tribe names remembered were the Delawares, Tonawandas, and Massasaugas. Red Jacket was here quite early.

Near where Nathan Truman now lives was a camp in 1804. One night a squaw went to the brook, east, for water, drank it and died. The Indians thought her poisoned. There was some little thought of civilization and change of custom shown in coming to John Ford and Asa Wilmot for a coffin. They made a box, and on Sunday went to see her buried. With the body, the Indians put in "nubbins" of corn and pieces of bread, to feed her on the way to the other world, and a pipe and tobacco to smoke. For burial they carried her across the bridge to the sand knoll south, and on the right of the road. After covering the grave with earth, five Indians raised their guns over the grave, pointed westward to the going down of the sun, and fired, to tell the friends in the other world she was coming. They drove stakes and put up poles, with a cover of bark above the grave, which was there when Stephen Ford came in 1807. No doubt, Harry Umberfield pointed out this spot to this wondering youth, with stories of wild red men, as he came on the last day's journey from Warren, through the woods. They made sugar on the flats southeast of Conant's, on the Hickox farm, towards the river. They had a fine "bush" of large hard maples, on the field where James Humiston had corn in 1878. He plowed through the boiling places and turned up charred stone and wood. Hickox says, the Indians helped to feed the first settlers the winter of 1798-9, or they would have starved.

There was quite a village on the east bank of the Cuyahoga swamp, northeast of where Obed Wicks now lives. It was on a sandy rise of land, and the marks of the camp can still be recognized. The knoll is seen from the Middlefield road, about 100 rods north, and near the east line of the farm. There they wintered, hunted and trapped, having brought their corn and beans from the Sandusky region, where they went in summer to plant and fish. When elk were plenty, they were driven out of the swamp in great numbers and ran by the deer lick, where the Indians had sunk pits and hid within. From these pits they would fire on the running herds, and many an elk went down. After their shots, their savage whoops and yells filled the woods. Esquire Thompson, the hunter, told.that he had shot 100 deer at that salt lick.

Daniel Dayton's house was convenient to the river. The Indians came there drunk, and ate everything in the house, and were so noisy as to alarm Mr. Dayton, who was in the field. He came, and with an "ox gad" threshed them out, and they went off. In a day or two they returned and apologized for their conduct.

As late as 1814, Julia Barnes saw two or three Indians sitting on a log near Freeman Hyde's house, as her father's family came up Burton hill, on their arrival in the country. They Indians did not remain long after the close of the war of 1812. The Flemings were called Indian hunters, and the Reddings are said to have followed the last of these departing "sons of the forest," down the Cuyahoga, and on nearly to Cleveland. Neither squaw, nor papoose, nor

painted hunter appeared again..

ROADS.

1798. The first road was cut from lot 11 to lot 35, as has been noticed, by the company's men, June 25th, two miles, and finished the next day. It ran from the "Old Garden" to the "west branch," north of Eli Hayes', and across

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 471

the Hayes settlement, east by the "Holbrook lot" and the creek, north of the barn now standing on the Governor Ford farm, and up to the Umberfield spring, on 35.

On Tuesday, July 3d, a route for a road from the center, south to the river, and a place for a bridge, was looked out.

Saturday, July 7th, Kirtland "surveyed north and south line, between lots 5 and 6, and found a good place for a road—no hills, gulphs, or mire." This was north from Calvin Williams'.

So necessary was it to have communication with other settlements, that, September 20th, this year, Kirtland set out with B. Rice to overtake his party cutting a road to Harpersfield. He tells that they drove a bull to Perkins' house, and tied him to tree, over night. with bass-wood bark. This was about one-half mile east of the "Old log tavern" that stood in Concord, on the oad leading to Painesville. "Friday, zest, they overtook their team near Grand river, in Harperstown, and then cut the way for them to the river." On Saturday, he went to see the Harperstown people. It must have been to their camp at Unionville, as that was their first location June 28, 1798, Major Moss and Mr. Gregory agreed to cut the road from Grand river to the place where the Kirtland party had left it, south of their town. Nothing definite is said as to where the road first crossed, only of the Indian ford at the bend of Grand river, in Harpers- field, and it seems probable, as the company's road came on from Austinburg, direct to Harpersfield, then took south to Thompson, and west across Leroy, that it was this road which Kirtland's party cut, at what is now known as the Ransom bridge, south of Harpersfield. Thus early the people of Burton and Harpersfield joined hands in the work for the public good.

1799. July 12th, work was begun on the bridge over the Cuyahoga. Rose, Hopson, and Eli Fowler were at. work on the logway, in the swamp south of the Rose house, where Hiram Bishop now lives. Law, Doolittle, Beard, Pond, and Brooks worked on it, and the 29th it was so far finished as to be crossed safely. The 18th, the first pair of trussels were raised. In December, 1804, the east end of this bridge went down, a whole section going off. Men rallied ano worked in the freezing water and rebuilt the section. Umberfield lost his axe, in ten feet of water, worth $5, and it could not be replaced in the settlement. He 0ffered 25 cents, cash, and Esquire Hickox endorsed for him, to recover the axe. Lyman Parks " stripped off," and went into the freezing water, going down by a pike pole, set near the axe, and brought it up. He dared the current, and risk of going under the ice, for 25 cents in silver—a large sum then. Parks had trouble in after years about dealing in spurious coin. After a time the road was changed, and the bridge built higher up the river, where runs the present road. The road came onto a hard point, or land knoll, on what is H. H. Ford's lot 66, west of Leander Taylor's. August 17, 1799, it was laid out, thence easterly across the swamp, to Law and Doolittle's line, and where afterwards ran the Parkman road, just north of Marcus Cramton's present home.

In 1847. B. F. Curtis, of Parkman, was on this bridge. Ducks flew up and frightened his team, and they dashed off into the channel. He caught hold of a post in the water, and holding on to it, the team turned heads to him and he held one by the bit and saved its life. The off horse drowned. Keeping his own head above water, Curtis called loudly for aid—help came from the hill and pulled him out. A Mr. Tracy came onto this bridge, with oxen and cart, loaded with cheese. The cattle scared, and, with cart, and cheese, went Into the river. Mr. Beach had the cheese contracted at two cents per pound. Tracy fished out the cheese, but Beach heard they had been wet, and discounted the price one half cent. Mr. Tracy would not sell.

The road to Troy was laid out, and ran off southerly from Cramton's, by

472 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY OHIO.

the Bendy or Dickerman spring, east of William Cay's, and the Hoadley & Slitor's mill, Henry Silvernail's and Mr. Fenns, and came on to the present road near Richard Slitor's. Mr. Slitor says Simeon Rose had a track across east of Rattlesnake spring and by the house in which Leander Taylor lives, and round to the Dickerman spring. This was called a road, but was private. Dickerman and Rose together owned the lot to which this track led. The present road, south to the Troy line, was cut through in the year 1829, by Richard Slitor, in fourteen days.

1800. Tuesday, July 15th, Kirtland mentions running a "line for a road to Young's roao in Hillsborough [Middlefield]," It is probable that this was the first road east of the river, and it started where the present road takes off from the Parkman road, ran directly east, on south of Amariah Rose's h0use, and came on to the present road near Obed Wick's home.

Esquire Merriam remembers a road from the river to Fleming's still. It started from the present Cuyahoga bridge, northeast across the swamp on a log- way, and north over the hard land on the east end of his home farm, and on north up to the still, a little east of the stone bridge by Austin Conant's. The upper bridge over the Cuyahoga, at Fowler's point, was built about 1830.

The Huntsburgh road—ran some rods north of Mr, Chellis' house, in Col. Ford's woods, to get by the hill, and as0und the spring swamp, a little east, and came out by Pages, and on down by Luther Russel's old house, on lot 38.

North of Deacon Cook's another route was used, diagonal across to No. 9, north of where Joel Hale now lives, and on east by Anson Ford's spring to Dr, Clark's (now Durgee's) place, in Huntsburgh,

To the northwest, a road started in north of the brook near Williams'; went south of his saw-mill, and 0ut by Amy Beard's, crossed the west branch some distance below Gilmore's mill, leading on up the hill across the meadow, and by the spring near which then stood Isaac Fowler's house, and on out south of the present house of Thomas Osborn, and on to Vene Stone's and North Newbury. In 1802 Justin Miner and others cut a road from Beard's mill, by Maple hill, 8 miles, to where he settled in Chester. The old State road, from there south, ran along near the town line, and crossed the east and west center road, about 20 rods east of where it now crosses in Newbury. It crossed the gulf about 5 rods east of the present bridge. A road tracked off southwesterly from Beard's mill to Punderson's, and the road leading east to the square went south of Edson's pond, along the bank, by the mill, up by his house, through the woods, coming out near Charles Stickney's present house, Earlier, it ran as now, straight west, and through the valley of the pond on a logway, When the darn was built and overflowed it, after a time the road bed was raised above high water mark, and the travel was across the pond, on the road, where it now runs.

Just west of Dr. Lawyer's, say 20 rods, the road to Oak hill led off southwesterly, and east of the Gunn place, near Truman's shop, and east of the Barnes place, now Thomas Brown's, over the west branch at the Indian fording, west of the Fleming meadow, and on up to Daniel Dayton's. A track went on out to Punderson's mill. From there people came this way to Burton, as a "short cut," A path and team route led from Beard's mill to the Hayes settlement, and later a road, now closed, ran north from near Esquire Benton's, along the east line of lot 32, to the Hayes settlement. This was after the first road, by the "Holbrook lot," from the "Old Garden," which was not long used, had been closed up,

Many other minutes as to the time of laying out roads, bridging, etc., could be given, but this will suffice. So change the ways of men, and the lines of their "going up and down" are forgotten.

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 473

MILLS,

1798. One of the first things sought in a new country is a mill site.

Friday, June 22, Kirtland says they were 2 1/4 miles down the West branch, and found what they supposed to be a good site for a mill.

1799. June 8, Isaac Clark and his company arrived to build the mills. The dam was built this season, the settlers contributing labor upon it. In August, Seth Hayes bought the irons and gear at Pittsburgh, and John Moss brought them fsom Fort McIntosh, at the mouth of the Big Beaver, with an ox team. This was the gear for a saw-mill. In the fall of 1799, Col. Jedediah Beard traded for the property, and in June of 1800, the log mill was completed and started. It took the name, and has always been known as Beard's mill, and stood where Mr. Vicroy's now saws for customers, as did Beard's almost 80 years ago.

The grist-mill was begun the summer of 1800. Kirtland mentions going with Thompson to the mill, July 7th, to find a place for a sill, It was a separate building of logs, but only a few feet from the saw-mill, at the north end. It was burned down very early, and never rebuilt. Alfred Beard writes that it was used not more than three or four years. It is probable that Nathan Parks worked out the stones for this mill, from the granite boulders of the surface, as he came with the mill men. The saw-mill is said to have been the first one on the Reserve.

Kirtland mentions Isaac Fowler going to Abbottstown, Monday, the 17th of September, 1798, and July 6, 1799, Kirtland "put up" at David Abbott's, at Chagrin. A paper sent in by Orrin Harmon, of Ravenna, in September, 1878, says that his father, Elias Harmon, went with an ox team and sled, by way of Cleveland, to Abbott's mill to get flour for Ebenezer Sheldon, of Aurora, and that he was there July 12th, 1799, and that the mill was then in operation, and that it was built the fall before, being the year 1798. Mr. Harmon often heard his father tell this, and finds the date of his being at the mill, in an old diary kept by his father. According to this date, Abbott's must have been the first grist-mill built on the Western Reserve.

The year 1805 was dry. Eli Hayes and two boys went through Wooster (since called Chester) to Abbott's mill, on the Chagrin river. He was gone two .days. Jonathan Brooks overtook him in Wooster, with 4 bushels of wheat, on horseback.

The 2d Grist-mill—was on the run near Austin Conant's, half a mile east of the square, and was operated by Matthew Fleming, who had there a whiskey still earlier than 1810 and it continued in 1826. Judge Taylor's address men- tions Fleming's whiskey tax as $81.62 for the year 1818. It was used about 1830 by David Earl for "fulling cloth," and also worked as a carding machine. Edward Rice, when a small boy, brought the bunches of wool for some twenty neighbors here to be carded.

Cider brandy was about its last product. Only a few years since, still on its "last legs," one morning, a year or two ago, it fell down. Born a still, it died a still.

1816. This year the grist-mill known as Edson's, was built west of town, on Hopson's creek, by Robert Edson and James Gilmore, where the Burton center mill now stands. The Carlton mill was burned there in 1875. When the water was low, a tread power was used, and oxen went round to do the grinding. Edson had a saw-mill, distillery, and blacksmith shop near by.

1820. James Gilmore—built a saw-mill on the west branch, and soon after, his grist-mill, where Alderman now continues sawing and grinding. The gristmill was rebuilt south of the first location.

The 2d Saw-mill—was on Hopson's creek, and long known as Williams'. It

474 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

was built by Calvin Williams, Thaddeus Bradley, Asa Wilmot, and Selah Bradley. Adonijah Bradley was millwright. He worked for Punderson, at the Rapids. Afterwards his mind was unbalanced, and he wandered in the woods three days, froze his feet, both of which had to be amputated. He was a good workman and continued his trade.

Selah Bradley—had the 2d still on the Claridon road, north of the fork, by the brook. On the stream west of the Chasdon road, some distance, he had a saw-mill, pearl ash factory, wool carding works, and machinery for making wrought nails, all under the same roof, all of which were stopped by his death.

Another still is spoken of on the Wilmot place, by the brook, one and a half miles north of the square, but they have all passed, may it be hoped, forever away.

The saw-mill, east of town, it is claimed, was built by Eli Fowler, on lot 50, in 1816. It is now owned by Hiram Brown,

David Taylor and Anson Ford had a saw-mill about 1834, at the head of Welton's gulf, on No. 19. In 1840 the flutter wheel and its mill went down the gulf into the darkness of its great rocks,

South of the Cuyahoga, on Rocky run, Henry Stull, who was a great hunter, built a saw-mill in an early day. Later, below this, Merwin Hoadley and Truman Slitor built the 2d mill. The 3d was built by James Peffers; the 4th by George Boom and the 5th by Asa and Amasa Carlton, It is now owned and run by N. P. Latham.

Michael Kinney—has had a steam saw-mill in operation some years, on lot 68, and another buzzes and whistles just west of Beard's blacksmith shop, in the shade of that grand old maple, owned by Beard & Hoxter.

At the mouth of the gulf, coming in from Newbury, north of Hickox's, Oliver Olney built a carding machine. Solomon Herendeen lived there and helped to build the works. They used "teasels" for dressing off the cloth.

Woolen works were operated across the stream from Beard's mill, quite extensively at one time. Myron Burnett is remembered there. Finally, Deacon Spring came to control them.

In the fall of 1879, since the foregoing was written, Messrs. Wells & Co., of Pennsylvania, built a mill near the "old Umberfield spring," where they set to work, cutting logs into handles for forks, hoes, rakes, etc., and will no doubt add stave and other machinery, to run with humming saws that cut away, in the rapid round of manufacture.

BLACKSMITHS.

A Mr. Scoville had the first shop in town, east near Conant's. Freeman Hyde opened first on Oak hill, about 1808, and his was the second shop, Afterwards he located at the turn of the road to Oak hill, just west of Dr. Lawyers, and hammered away. Later, set up right at the top of the hill near George Carltons. A Mr, Woolsey had a shop north of Eli Hayes, and later had a shop in the forks of the road north towards Claridon, He was a good workman, Then Rufus Hoadley's shop near Chellis, then Merwin Hoadley and Andrew Durand, and Weatherbee, Lawrence Huff, John and Amasa Carlton, Solomon Charter, Herendeen and Harlow Charters, All these about the Carlton's corners. Aaron Beard started a shop west of the Methodist church in the old academy. The last ox-frame, for shoeing, stood unused in Solomon Charter's shop, for many years.

WAGON SHOPS.

The first was built by Augustus Rose and Lucius Chatfield, who began carriage making. This shop, at last was used for a plaining mill, An explosion occurred June 15th, 1867, which threw the boiler over the tops of trees and 20

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 475

rods away, carrying with it the body of Hiram Carlton, who was killed. Lawrence Huff was so badly injured that he died. The Carlton brothers, Hiram and Asa, erected a large shop at the corners, and for a time did a good business, Andrew Fowler carried on the trade many years and still has a bench there. George Carlton works there now, Beard's have a new shop and painting room "up town,"

CARPENTERS,

First in Burton was John Ford and Asa Wilmot, an apprentice, in 1804. Then David Hill, who built the Beals tavern for Gideon Finch; also, Thomas Davidson and Abel Cramton; then the Nettletons, Merritt and John, and Selden Brooks, of the early ones. Later, A. B. Carlton, G. Cramton, Henry Silvernail, Seth Herendeen, Monroe Herendeen, A. Johnson, R. Cramton, L, Crittenden, and other names not recalled.

CABINET MAKERS,

"Old Uncle Whitman," said to be the first, worked in the bar-room of the Peter Beals tavern; then had his shop where Mrs, Bishop now lives, and old furniture in several homes bears marks of his skill as a workman. Benjamin Judd and Mr, Spencer kept shop near the old Beach store; Johnson & Sherwood, then D. L Johnson, where the Slitor store now stands, and then on the site of the brick block, and now Levi Johnson works at the trade. John Slitor occupies the Gaylord store, west side of the street, and does a flourishing business in furniture, and also in groceries, David Hitchcock worked at the trade, and sold the cabinet shop to Boughton, which was so long after used for a store.

COOPERS.

In the cellar, or sidehill room, on the site where Thomas Brown lives, Asahel Barnes set up shop, and afterwards had shop on lot 8; then Eggleston on No. g. For many years Porter and George Jaques coopered, and Elbridge Stickney wore a leather apron darly from the shop. Now, George Jaques and Asher Forrow shave and hoop, There were others, not recalled, and early settlers learned to bend and notch their own hoops.

SHOEMAKERS,

The first was John Cook, with whom was associated, at a later day, his brother Hiram; then Marimon Cook. After him, 1816, was Shipman, in Edson's hollow, then at Gilmore's. He had a contract for thousands of shoes. On this contract worked Joseph Nash and Miles Williams, in John Cook's shop, who furnished the stock, Shipman bet he could bottom as many shoes in a day as both Nash and Wrlliams. He did 22, and they 24 shoes. Truman Cramton ' was with Williams two years. Then Silas Gaylord, sr,, and Nathan Truman, and after hint Joseph Hinkston, and then Ansel Burnett; and now J. B, Newman and C. J. Heathman,

STONE MASONS.

Simon Moss is first mentioned. He was a workman considerably known in his time, and was employed on Dr. Goodwin's house. Later was Titus Goff, and now George W. Jaques cuts stone.

BRICK YARDS.

Hayes says the first bricks were made by William Lyons, near to and on the south side of the Parkman road, across the river, and south of the present Troy road, about 20 rods, Mr, Grannison, a colored man, also worked that yard. Another, north and west of Williams' mill-pond-one west of Gilum Hotchkiss', where Goodwin's bricks were made; one by Eli Fowlers; another west, worked by Stephen Cook; another west of Beard's mill where Solomon Herendeen lived.

476 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

The clay and water was mixed, in early day, by oxen tramping around in a tread. Near the 1st one, the brick for the present block was made.

CHEESE FACTORIES.

1st one stands near the spring, where the "Umberville Coffee House" was, built, called Plymouth, built by L. J. Randall. The d, called Torrey, on lot a, the old Wooster place.

OFFICES, POSTMASTERS, AND MAILS.

The nearest post-office, at first, was Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. There is no data showing that Gideon Finch was, but it is though he was postmaster, and about 1814 Peter Beals was appointed, and continued to 1830, then James Peffers had it 6 years; then John T. Johnson; after him, Sherwood and D. L. Johnson; then Joseph R. Johnson (Taylor's administration); after him, George Boughton again D. L. Johnson; after him H. S. Tolles; then Myron G. Manly; now, Chalmer J. Scott.

Hiram Fowler was a mail carrier, and on the route from Ravenna to Cleveland, the 7th day of June 186, he encountered a severe snow storm and suffered with the cold. It snowed in Burton on the 6th. Crops were cut off, and great fears fell upon the people, because of the loss, and danger of scarcity of food for the next winter. Seth Burton says there were 12 frosts in June of that year. The winter of 1826 the mail boy came to Beals, minus the bag. It had fallen from the horse, and went down through the Cuyahoga bridge, on the ice. Elbridge Stickney, and others, went back with the boy. The ice would not hold him up. They lifted one of the puncheon planks, and letting him down, head first, held on to his heels until he fished up the mail, then pulled him out. Edward Rice carried the mail from Ravenna to Chardon, on the old State road, when but 1a years old, on horseback—a trip from daylight to 9 and 10 o'clock at night. Once four spirited horses started off from Pinney's tavern, with the coach and one lady in it. The reins were looped over the break. They ran to the top of the old hill, and straight down by where Freeman Brown now lives, and thundering onto the bridge, before they brought up, giving the lady a terrible fright, but doing no very serious damage.

TAVERNS.

1798. The first was the "Umberville Coffee House," by the Umberfield spring. 2d, by Gideon Finch, where Esquire Merriam now lives, and where Peter Beals kept many years ; then Umberfield and Clark Howard, west side of square, on the corner where the Exchange now stands ; afterwards Clitus Pinney kept it in good style. It was burned in 1843. The fire was supposed to have been thrown in at the north door of the hay loft of the barn, and burned rapidly in the breath of the north wind. Pinney lost a fine carriage. The mail coach and horses were burned—some seven horses in all. The intent was to injure the mail contractor, it was supposed. The house and barn was a total loss to Esquire Hickox of $1,500. He rebuilt in 1845. Hickox's brick house, built in 1838, was occupied as a hotel, while the new tavern was being constructed.

Then G. Cramton built, first, where is now the Brewster house, north of the brick block. It was enlarged to the present size by Almon Carlton, now owned and kept by Seth Brewster.

The Exchange was rebuilt by John B. Corey, a graduate of Oberlin, who used it for boarding students. 1878, it was a temperance house, conducted by George Thompson.

MERCHANTS.

1802. This year, the first storekeeper, J. S. Cleveland, had goods in the frame house where the Hickox brick now stands. It is claimed he came in

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 477

1800. Then Hickox, 1804, south of Peffer's house. About 1807, Hall & Bradley, hatters, came to start a shop. Hall was disappointed in business and hung himself. After Bradley came Doolittle. Almon and Hiram Clark were here early. James Converse, Hickox, and Jacob Vanduzer, all traded in a store on the corner where Parmele's hardware now stands. Vanduzer died in 1836, and Samuel Humiston kept in the same store. Noah Hall was in trade here, where Carlos Williams now lives, He removed to Canton, Ohio, and was robbed and murdered in his store. James Peffers began early where Dr. Lawyer now lives, and afterwards long continued trade in the front of his own house.

1831. Richard Beach—came to Burton, and was in partnership with Boughton and Peffers. The Beach stores still stand on the west side of the street, and Boughton's is now used for a banking office. Both these men continued steadily in trade, and became rich. Joseph Johnson, a man highly esteemed in all circles, was a partner with Boughton about 1850, and after his death Silas Gaylord; then S. C. Ford and Marcellus Cook, and then George H. and R. N. Ford. Gaylord was a thorough business man, on hand early and late. He built the store where John Slitor now trades. Mr. Beach associated with him the Tolles, and also, for a time, Silas Gaylord. He was a remarkably good business man, and conducted for many years a heavy trade. Unassuming in manner, and pleasant in his ways, his customers found him prompt and attentive to business at all hours. He erected a large house on the corner next to his store. In digging the cellar for it, a great chestnut stump, said to be eight feet across the top, was removed. George Strickland was at one time working for him in digging a well, by the house. It was 33 feet deep. Strickland fell from the top to the bottom, striking his feet on solid rock. He was crippled for some time.

G. Cramton, S. C. Hotchkiss, R. Tuttle, J. Johnson, the Hydes, and others, did business. W. J. Ford started the first hardware and tin store in 1855; Dr. Cleveland the first drug store about 1857.

The first tailor was William Neal, a Manxman; afterwards Reuben Welton, Wicks, Tuttle, Dyke, and others, and now Tolles & Tuttle keep a man employed. Long ago many a woman pressed the "goose" on her "cut and fit" of homespun.

Simeon Stickney conducted a harness shop nearly all his life, some 50 years, and was last on the west side.

In the brick block P. W. and Frank Parmele, brothers, are selling hardware; Tolles & Tuttle, clothing, and boots and shoes; Scott & Burleigh, drugs and groceries; E. E. Nash, dry goods; Cleveland & Crittenden, drugs and groceries; S. M. Dayton, jewelry, and Forshee, harnesses; and across the way: Mrs. Milo White, millinery; Turner & Hungerford, meat market; E. J. Slitor, furniture; Miss Alice Smith, dressmaker; Miss Mills, milliner, and W. H. Reed, livery stable.

BOUGHTON, FORD AND CO., BANKERS.

1872. This firm, as organized in 1856, was composed of George Boughton, S. C. Ford, and John M. Cook. Their business was that of a general country store, dealing in produce and wool to a considerable extent. In 1862 the firm was dissolved by the death of Mr. Cook. In 1864, S. C. Ford withdrew, to enter the wholesale business in Cleveland. Mr. Boughton then associated his two nephews, George H. and R. N. Ford, with him, and the business was contined, without change of name or style of business, until 1872, when Col. H. H. Ford entered the concern, and a banking institution was organized under same name. The bank was• a result of two things: First, the, great decline in value of merchandise had rendered merchandising unprofitable; second, a portion of

478 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

the large amount of money then in circulation had already found its way into their hands as deposits, and the business grew upon them in snch a way that, before they were aware of it, the Internal Revenue officers were upon them, and informed them that they were liable to the government as bankers. This, more than anything else, suggested the idea, or rather the necessity, of changing their style of business. So it was a result of growth of business, and of the need of an institution 'of the kind, rather than of any design or premeditation on the part of the firm Miss Ella S. Dayton has been their efficient, reliable and faithful bookkeeper since October, 1874. The business is larger than would be expected in a place of the size of Burton.

PROFESSIONAL MEN.

It is possible that the two foremost men of the township, Judge Peter Hitchcock and Seabury Ford, had so extensiive a reputation as lawyers, and in the wider field' of politics, as to dwarf the aspirations of succeeding generations. Since their day, no lawyer has held to a regular practice in Burton. Of their eminence and ability, notice is made in the biographical sketches. G. H. Ford practices occasionally. C. E. Ward opened an office here in October, 1879. Reuben Hitchcock, Homer and Lewis Goodwin, started out from here, and bean at other places, a successful practice.

The Ministry—is given in connection with the churches, and needs no mention here.

PHYSICIANS.

1804. The first was Dr. Joseph Clark, this year, who occupied Law's house. He was elected as one of the trustees in 1806, and, in connection with him, appears the name of George Wallace (with whom Hickox lost in the canal contracts), with Justus Miner. Dr. Clark afterwards lived where Edward Beardsley now resides, and, in 1812, went to Painesville. He returned to the Durgee place, on the old State road, in the corner of Huntsburgh, where travelers used to stop. He died there, and Mr. Witter preached his funeral sermon, in 1828, He treated horses as well as people, and a balky one had come to him in a trade. He started it for Burt0n, and on the way it stopped, and would not go, but commenced backing. He turned the buggy round, saying: "If she won't go forward-wise, let her go hind-wise."

Dr. Kennedy was the 2d, and occupied Hickox's store prior to 1810. Dr. Erastus Goodwin came in 1811. A man of very marked character, he had an extensive practice, and continued a lifetime in the profession, as an allopath. (See biographical sketch.) His son, Dr. Sherman Goodwin, studied, and practiced here until 1848. Losing health, he moved to Victoria, Texas, and is still living in that country.

Dr. Cox was known as skillful in treatment with "Roots and herbs."

Dr. Burritt, one of the most successful practitioners, was the apostle of homoeopathy, who startled the community, and the dispensers of calomel, by a regular can nonade of little pills, about 1840. For years rt was a battle of "Sugar-coats and water," blue-mass and drugs and blood-letting." How the practice has changed and progessed since that day.

Drs. Coulter, Sumner and Pond, had a good practice, after Burritt, as homeopaths. Dr. Colbert, A. Canfield, a graduate of Hudson, gained something of a ride, as Dr. Goodwin grew old, but finally went to California.

Dr. Lawyer, a well-read physician, commenced here in 1855, and gained a good practice. He had a drug store, which was lost in the fire of 1871. Of good judgment and attention, he has been faithful in his calling, and serves the people yet. In the educational matters of the town he has taken a lively inter-

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 479

est, and been often, and is now on the school board. Dr. Cleveland located and died here, but was not considered in practice.

Dr. Aaron McGsaw—who went to California, this year (1879), was a surgeon in the service, in 1864. Thoroughly read, keeping to the front with the advance of science in his profession; a man of determined purpose, always cool and skillful, he controlled an extensive practice, and gained the strong attachment of his friends. His ability was undoubted, and to-day he is the surgeon-in-chief of one of the great mining companies of California, at a large salary.

Dr. Strickland—came, served a time, and moved away.

These last five were allopaths, and in that practice now is Dr. Steers, who was an army surgeon. He has a large practice, and with him is Dr. Dixon. Dr. Rider, who was in the army, practices homoeopathy; as, also, does Dr. Hargett.

Dr. Goodwin—did all the ride for a great region, in 1811. Now the town has five practioners.

EDITORS.

Only one has arisen. J. B. Coffin, formerly of Hudson, New York, established the Geauga Leader, in December, 1874; a fair-sized, eight-page weekly, which aims to be up to the times. He is proprietor and editor, and conducts the working of a job office, and, by strict attention to business, is making a success of the enterprise..

TOWN HALL.

Unfortunately, for the beauty of the park, it was built on the northeast corner, in 1871, at a cost of $4,000. Of fair size (36x54), it is not large enough to accommodate, with comfort, the audiences that gather, on many occasions, It is to be hoped it may be removed to a more eligible site, and enlarged.

BURNED.

1871. Wooden buildings, occupied for stores, shops and offices, and a Masonic hall, stood on the east side of the main business street in Burton. A cold frosty night, the 5th of December, when the wind was sweeping in a fearful storm, at 1 o'clock, the cry of fire was heard. Miss Emily Wilmott first discovered it and gave the alarm. The excited people roused suddenly, and saw the flames in possession of the row. The cold was intense, and work against wind and storm was almost impossible. Buckets and ladders came with the crowd of men, women and boys, and with heroic determination, the battle against the elements began. Lines of men, with buckets, were formed, and water was thrown where there seemed any hope. It froze on everything it touched, and helped to stay the flames. The tremendous efforts of the citizens fighting the blaze, fanned by the angry winds on the hill top, conquered when it reached the house where D. L. Johnson resides, next south of the Brewster house. It swept all the buildings from the south corner to this point. The loss was without insurance, and said to be upwards of $20,000.

Stock was subscribed, a company formed, and the summer of 1872 work was begun, and in 1873 the fine brick block of seven stores, took the place of the burned ones. The large window fronts of these stores, light up in the evening with an array, that is a "City set on a hill that cannot be hid."

EDUCATION.

The New England idea of a school-house first "and all the time," came to the west. Elijah Hayes remembers going to school through the woods two miles by marked trees, to the weaving-room built near Mr. Umberfield's house, and that within its wall of logs, in the summer of 1802, Sallie Miner, a daughter of Dr. John Miner, was teacher. Rufus Beard was naughty, and was led round with his arm pinned to the school "marm's" apron.

480 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

1803. The settlement being mainly west of Hopson's creek. For the convenience of the town,

The First School-house—was made of logs, on the north side of the road, east of the creek, near where runs the present mill-race, and that spring and summer, Charity Hopson, afterwards wife of Judge Stone, taught the first school in it. Stella Umberfield was one of Elijah Hayes' playmates there. The Indians had a camp by the big spring, near where the old Edson house stands, now owned by Caleb Johnson, and from their two or three huts, the younger ones used to wander out and startle the school by throwing clubs upon the roof above the heads of the children.

The first winter school in 1803-4, Gideon Finch taught, and Joseph Noyes. taught one winter, probably in 1804-5.

The winter of 1805-6, Esquire Hickox taught the first village school in his store. It stood in what is now James Peffers' garden.

The ad district school-house was located near to Eli Hayes', on the west side of the road,, on lot 13. Col. Beard's family, Stephen and Anson Ford were with the Hayes boys, at this school. The winter of 1808-9, Peter Hitchcock, afterwards a supreme judge, was teacher. He took pork and provisions for his pay, and thus found support f0r his family in the time of scarcity.

Seth Burton was at school in 1812 in Esquire Hickox's store. Jerusha Guile taught. Burton, a lad 6 years old, was sent to the Hickox spring for water, and was complained of for soiling the water. On examination it was found he had tumbled into the spring. He gives the names of his classmates: Orson Finch, 6 years; Addison Hopson, 5; Harriet Cook, 5; Julia Russel, 5.

The First Frame School-house—was built on the northwest corner of the square, a little east of where the Congregational church now stands. Thomas Davidson helped to build it in the memorable year of 1813, when the war and rumors of wars kept the people excited.

THE ACADEMY.

1804. It is not an unnatural thing that men deprived, in early life, of culture,. should see to it that those coming after them should have opportunities for education. With what thought then went down the clips of John Ford's broad axe, as he hewed to the line on the timbers for the great academy, began in 1804. With Asa Wilmot on the score, he laid well the work, and his first blows in the new land were for education. The building was 25 by 5o feet, large for that that day, with rooms 20 by 25, and a 10 foot hall below, and a room for church above. It was to be sealed throughout with pine, and had brick chimneys and fireplaces. It was considered the most elegant building on the Reserve, at the time, and was the first erected for a literary institution. Not only was this material work begun, but as early as 1801, the territorial legislature had been petitioned by Rev. Joseph Badger, and 0thers, to grant a college charter, so anxious were the settlers for education. The year 1803, the act was passed incorporating the Erie Literary Society. The first corporator named was Joseph Hudson, and the last Rev. Joseph Badger. Lands were donated in July, 1806. William Law gave 1,130 acres—the land to revert to his heirs, if ever the college should be removed from Burton.

The building began in 1804, was not so far completed as to be occupied until 1806. Ford and Wilmot working again upon it the latter year. Esquire Hickox says, Peter Hitchcock was the first teacher in the academy, and this winter of 1806—'7 the scholars were very few, some of them walking 5 and 6 miles and returning home at evening. The first attendance being so small, it was probable there was no school in the academy the following winter. Stephen Ford relates going to school in Esquire Hickox's store building the winter 1807

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 481

-'8. Hitchcock taught in the Hayes district, during the winter of 1808-'9.

The winter of 1809-10, Edwin Ferris says he was in attendance at the academy, and remembers Anson and Seabury Ford, a daughter of Judge Stone's, afterwards Mrs. Patchen, then under Judge Hitchcock's instruction. The next summer and winter Gilbert Ferris taught, and the names of Theron Graham, Stephen Worthington, and Solomon Charter are recalled. One of the lower rooms and the hall had been finished. Mechanics had been at work, in the daytime, in the unfinished room. At night, in the early winter [December, 1810] fire was discovered in that room, before it had burned through into the hall. It was concluded to be the work of an incendiary, who had fired the shavings. The building was an entire loss. Ferris lived in a large log house. The inhabitants immediately built a smaller one adjoining, for his family, and he finished his school term, in his own house.

A string of red peppers hung on the wall, left there by the family. One boy offered another boy, much older, a jackknife if he would eat a pepper pod. It was done, and the knife claimed. The small boy said it wasn't worth the knife to eat the pepper, but admitted the bargain to the teacher, who asked the other boy if he would release the claim to the knife if the younger would eat a pepper. He said yes, and the younger boy was asked which he would do, eat or give up the knife. "Eat the pepper," said the younger boy, and with heroic will the little fellow swallowed it down.

He was afterwards governor of Ohio.

Ralph Cowles—always beloved, taught in the house of Bradley, the hatter, below John Punderson's, and also in Lyman Durand's house, near where Dr. Lawyer now lives. He was skilled with the pen. This was after the first fire. He taught in 1814, and for two or three years thereafter.

The loss of the building, the coming on of the war, with its uncertainties, had a depressing effect, and it was some years before the trustees decided to rebuild. The foundation, from which it was burned, will be remembered by many a School boy, forty years afterwards, as being on the west side of the square, and almost in front and a little north of the present union school building.

In 1817, a new building, similar to the first, was commenced on the east side of the square, near where Almon Carlton's house now stands. It was finished and dedicated in 1819. In May, /820, Mr. David L. Coe, a graduate of Williams College, Mass., opened school in this new building and the college work for all northeastern Ohio, went on under the care of the Erie Literary Society, and in charge of Mr. Coe, until 1824, and was continued under the original charter until 1834. The Presbyterian and Congregational churches of the reserve decided to add a theological department under the charter. Sickness incidental to a new country, had visited Burton the years 1823 and 1824, and this, with other causes, led to a decision of the churches to build, under religious control, at Hudson, Ohio, and for this purpose a charter was obtained February 7, 1826. This change of base was strongly opposed by Judge Hitchcock and others, and the success of the academy here and health of the country in after years, proved the fears against Burton groundless. Students came in from all directions, and to the thorough acedemic work of those years, in the early time Burton owes much for its high reputation throughout the Reserve and the State. The Tods, David and Ingersoll, the Wicks, Henry and Samuel, from Youngstown, attended, and there were the Austins and Hawleys from Austin- burg, and Joseph, Jacob and Charles Perkins; of Warren, Moses Hampton and Birchard, afterwards both supreme judges, Walter H. Bidwell, an editor of New York, the Wallaces, of Brandywine in Cuyahoga county, and Joel T. Case.

Aaron Austin tells of walking from Austinsburg, through the Windsor woods and swamp, by Huntsburgh, in early winter, wading in, deep snow and mud, with his pack of clothes on his back, and getting on to Col. Stephen Ford's

482 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

that night, thirty-two miles in one day, to attend school, under Mr. Coe.

David Tod, the war governor of Ohio, got on well in his classes, but always had time for fun. It is told how, one winter day, when a deep cut had been shoveled through a snow bank, he led others to fill the cut with wood, and when Mr. Coe returned from dinner, he had to climb the pile to get into the academy.

David Smith, now living at Chagrin Falls, tells of a liberty-pole that stood at the south end of the square the winter of 1821. Tod bantered Case to climb the pole, and Case pulled off his shoes and stockings, and climbed 20 feet when Tod caught up the shoes and stockings, and ran to Peter Beals, leaving Case to come barefoot in the snow, which was cold and deep. He was not too old when in the governor's office, to laugh over the story of his fear of a large flock of geese which were always hissing at him, as he passed from John Ford's, where he boarded, by Hiram Cook's, on his way to school. One day he espied Arvilla Cook, a fascinating young lady, starting up town. He caught a brush, and went at the geese, making frantic efforts to pass the squalking flock, but all the time, careful to keep them yelling close behind her, most ridiculously, through the village. The boys, perhaps rougher then than now, but none the less generous, made grand men, as has since been known, in their day of trial. Mr. Coe was much liked, and his school prospered. Beside the governors, who had a start in the academy, there were Judge Reuben Hitchcock, Rev. Dexter Witter and Lawrence Hitchcock, afterwards president of Hudson College. These three taught in the academy, as did, Dr. Ludlow, who afterwards practiced medicine in Auburn; Dr. Sherman Goodwin, Homer Goodwin, esq., the Hon. Peter Hitchcock and others of influence whose names cannot now be recalled. This second building was burned on January 18, 1842. It was in a very shabby condition. The Disciple church offered to help pnt it in repair, and use the upper room for meetings, the town to have the school r0oms below, but the whiskey party's jealousies were aroused, and the incendiary's torch made ashes of the house, and smoke of the plans. The lands reverted to the heirs of William Law, as shown on Recorder's books-at Cleveland, vol. 30, p. 29. For much information, relating to the Erie Literary Society and the early action in removing the college, the writer is indebted to President Cutler, of Hudson College.

Another academy was built in the year 1845, west of the Methodist church. Of late, used for a wagon shop, it was burned down December 28, 1878, since the first chapters of this history were written.

Joel T. Case, Frederick Thomas, William Colegrove, O. P. Miller, J. B. Corey, Charles Welton, and others, were principal teachers there.

At the close of the term in the winter of 1850, February 7 and 8, Thomas had an exhibition in the Congregational church, a large stage being erected in front of the pulpit. People gathered from the surrounding towns and crowded the church. How the memories come back from that far away time I S. C. Ford recalls Delos Baxter and himself, in all the pomp of school-boy airs, repeating "Lochiel's Warning," and the writer, with trembling knees, flourished, oratorically, his high notions of "True Greatness." How has the ideal vanished in the awful roll of the swift passing years! Other names come up: Lewis Goodwin, Henry Cramton, Lawrence Bradley, Charles Miller, Chauncey Talcott, Lester Patchin, Samuel Cook, Harriet Johnson, Rhoda Herendeen, Lorilla Dayton, Permona and Augusta Edson, Julia Thomas, Libby Cook, Emily Ford, Emily Brooks, Augenette Wright, and others, all big boys and girls then.

The evening of the 8th a party and supper was held in the academy. What responsibilities, what rivalries, what "pit pats" of the heart, as the big boy loves, saw the girls "playing off" with some "other fellow," espied over the shoulder, in that social gathering.

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 483

In 1868 a union school building was erected by D. Woodard, on the west side of the square. It cost $4,000; is 36x48 feet, and two stories high. The township board of education established a high school in 1866, which is conducted on the upper floor, and below is a primary and intermediate. The first term in the building was held the winter of 1868-9. A young man who has, by settled determination and energy, worked his way up to an education, and to the respect of his fellow-citizens, and who is now one of the county board of school examiners, has been for three years, and is the principal of the high school now, a working educator—Mr. Edward Truman. Those who preceded him were in the order as follows: J. A. Wood, one term; B. S. Dean, one year; J. W. Crenshaw, one year F. A. Snow, one year; W. P. Cope, one year; Miss O. A. Udall, two years; J. F. Rodifer, one year.

Julia Chase taught in the district cast of Page's about 1824. She received six shillings a week, and boarded 'round. Now ladies' wages average $16 per month, and men teachers $20.

Edwin Ferris was a noted teacher, and had order and obedience in school. An instance of governing in the log school-house time, is related of him. He began a school in district No. 9, in Kirtland, where rowdy boys had generally broken up the school. The two ring leaders staid away for several weeks. At length they came one afternoon, spent their time whispering and laughing, making mouths and cutting up generally, until near time to close school, when he enquired of them what their object was in coming to the school. They replied " we come to see the school." "Very well," said he, "you have seen the most of it. There is one thing to show you, that is of more importance than anything else we have here." So taking a good whip from the closet, that he had procured for an emergency, he fastened the door, and, taking one at a time, gave them a good thrashing. " Now," said he, "you have seen all, you can go."

CHURCHES.

The first Settlers were of Puritan stock, and the same trust in God, manifest by those who sailed an unknown ocean in the "Mayflower," came to this border land,

1802. In July a missionary finds the log house of Isaac Clark, east of Beard's mill, and is welcomed to preach beneath the lowly ro0f.

Joseph Badger proclaims the everlasting gospel, for the first time, in Burton. One of his hearers, Elijah Hayes, now venerable, still is able to attend church, and he is the only one left. Among the scattered settlers of the great forests this herald of the cross traveled hundreds of miles, and sought to save souls. No settled pastors then. It is told of him, that traveling in the woods he was• abstracted in thought upon some theological question, and his horse took a bridle path or trail, ano wandered off the road. Started from his reverie by the howl of wolves, the missionary found darkness closing on him, and that he was lost. Tying his horse to a limb, he climbed a tree. The wolves snapped at the heels of his horse, were kicked, and went yelping away. Thus treed during the long night, he had full time for debate of mind, and no rest. At day dawn he was in the saddle, and traveled to his appointment.

1808. Congregational.—August 22d, the Rev. Enoch Burt, sent by the missionary society of Connecticut, organized this church with eight members— Andrew Durand and Lowly, his wife, Marimon Cook and Lowly, his wife, Joseph Noyes, Easter Ford, Elizabeth Patchin, and Elizabeth Durand. Marimon Cook and Joseph Noyes were chosen deacons. Deacon Cook lived past the l0th anniversary, and died a few days after.

On Sunday, August 28th, the Lord's Supper was administered for the first time by Mr. Burt. Mrs. Parnall Bradley and Mrs. Eunice Beard united.

484 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

Three persons were from abroad, making thirteen communicants. Thirteen children were baptized.

In this early day, occasionally came a missionary, and the names of Scott, Darrow, Leslie and Barr, are remembered. When there was no minister, lay public worship was maintained. Judge Peter Hitchcock, Esquire Hickox, Esquire Benton, and Judge Stone officiated as readers, and Jonathan Brooks as choirister.

The first meetings regularly held were in the academy. After it was burned, the ball-room of Peter Beals' tavern was occupied; also the school-house on the square, and the d academy, southeast corner of the square. The present large edifice was dedicated August 30, 1836; cost $4000. About 1850, it was moved westward, off from the square, to its present location. This building was a matter of township pride, and a great many citizens bought slips. Carpenters of limited means, such as Th0mas Davidson, Asa Wilmot, and Abel Crainton, gave $100 each and more, in work, and $5 to $25 for the bell.

It was first used for the funeral of Mrs. Vanduzer, and the bell, not yet in the steeple, was raised from the ground on timbers, and tolled. And from the belfry now, it numbers the years of those that pass beyond the verge of time.

Early used as a hall, when the fairs were held on the square, and a hundred yoke of red oxen were driven in fr0nt of it on exhibition; it was afterwards famous as the place of the trial of Luther Britton, for the killing of young Allen, of Thompson, a militia man, doing camp duty under General Paine. This was in 1845. The soldiers were marched from the camp ground, west of the church, and, stacking their arms in front of it, filed in, filling the galleries and floor. The trial was helo before M. D. Merriam and John A. Ford, justices of the peace. Merriman Carlton made the arrest on warrant. Britt0n was under the influence of liquor and had been set on by others. There being some disturbance, a patrol guard was sent out, of which Allen was one. The fatal blow went to the heart. Col. W. R. Tolles was the first to reach the falling man. 0. G. Hotchkiss was detailed, and went with Deputy-sheriff Stocking to Chardon with the prisoner, who was bound over. This trial in the church was solemn and the sad event cast great gloom over the county. The county court trial t0ok place in the spring of 1846, in Chardon. Britton was pardoned by Gov. Bebb, in 1848.

Jennie Cleveland and Celestine Cook saw it blazing one night, in 1859, and Asa Tucker raised the alarm and put out the fire.

1861. In the first days of the war, the tramp of the boys drilling, was often heard on the brick floor of the vestibule.

In it Governor Ford, after the close of his term in Columbus, sat anxious to listen, for the last time, to Mr. Humphrey. During the sermon the life currents of his left side were clogged, and the Governor was never again 'A well man. Paralysis had begun its work. In the year 1876 the building was rebuilt and thoroughly modernized, at an expense of $3,500.

Among the names, held with reverence, as officers, are those of Deacons Cook, Tomlinson, Hotchkiss, Linson T. Patchin, Gervase Spring, and Chauncey H. Johnson. The later ones, John C. Chillis, H. S. Tones, S. L. Beard, and H. E. Ford.

The change in church or public sentiment is interesting to note. On the 1st .day of Aug., 1836, a warrant was issued by John Cook, esq., an active supporter of the Presbyterian church, and served by W. M. Mastick, constable, as appears by the returns, on Marcus Cramton, charged with cradling wheat on the Sabbath day, July 31, 1836. At a later date, J. S. Cook, son of John, was called to account, by the church, for hauling in wheat on Sunday, to save it from growing, and M. D. Merriman, esq., a member, "was visited," and asked to relieve the conscience

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 485

of the church, for allowing the towns people to gather at his hotel, on the opening of it as a "Temperance house," and dance until midnight, when, under the wholesome rule he had adopted, they quietly retired. He could not confess to any wrong, but did not afterwards allow fires built in the hall for a visiting party from Chardon, because of the conscience of others. In the year 1876, a grandson of John Cook's, the Hon. George H. Ford, was president of a dancing club, in which several of the younger church members took prominent part, and were known as fine waltzers. Now, men go unblusingly about their work on Sunday, in violation of law.

MINISTRY.

The Revs. John Field, Simeon Woodruff, William Hanford, and other missionaries sent out by the Connecticut Missionary society, rendered occasional and temporary preaching services, during the first seven years after the organization of the church. In August, 1815, the Rev. Luther Humphrey, under commission of the above named society, commenced preaching in Burton and Claridon. On the 25th of October following, he was installed in the pastoral care of the church, and retained that connection until November, 1828. He was the first settled minister in Geauga county. Mr. Humphrey was a graduate of Williams college, a man of moderate ability, genial, social qualities, and devoted piety. Mr. Riddle says: "He was a stout, sedate, solemn man, who wore the old-fashioned cocked hat, when he appeared as chaplain at regimental musters, and was always called 'Priest Humphrey."

Mr. Humphrey was a pioneer in the temperance reform. One of the first, if not the first, in the vicinity, who publicly advocated the principles of total abstinence from all that can intoxicate. The novelty, and, at that day, unpopularity of the doctrine, brought on him much obloquy and even abuse. The advocates of rum are, perhaps, none the less abusive now than then, but where he stood alone, thousands, and tens of thousands, now stand in support of the position he then occupied. The following from his pen states a fact worthy of preservation: "The first, if not the three first buildings erected in Ohio, without whiskey, were in Burton. It cost a severe struggle, but the results have been beneficial to many thousands in different parts of the country." This first house referred to was Parson Humphrey's, and the same building in which Mr. Witter now lives, and has lived from the time Mr. Humphrey left. Under his labors the church had: a slow, but constant, healthy growth. He died, a few years since, at the advanced age of more than eighty years.

DEXTER WITTER,

so long a resident pastor in Burton, and so intimately associated in all the varied efforts for the mental, moral and religious improvement of her people, demands more than a passing notice. He was the son of Dr. Septimus Witter, and born July 18, 1803, in Hinsdale, Berkshire county, Massachusetts. In the fall of 1809, he came with his father's family to Aurora, Portage county, Ohio, where were spent most of his boyhood days. Here he commenced preparation for college, under the tuition of the Rev. John Seward. At the opening of the academic school in Burton, he came there and continued his studies, under its preceptor, David L. Coe, until the fall of 1821. At this time, in company with his school-mate and friend, Seabury Ford, late governor of Ohio, he entered Yale college. The two, in company, made the journey to New Haven in a one- horse wagon, being three weeks on the way. Completing his course, he graduated in the class of 1824.

Returning to Burton, for the next two years he taught the academy in which he had completed his preparation for college. Next he spent two years in studying theology, in Auburn, New York. He was licensed to preach in October,

486 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

1828, preaching his first sermon in Burton. The writer, then ten years old, well recollects hearing Peter Hitchcock and John Cork, as they were returning from church after this sermon, discussing the young minister. The esquire thought "he was not one of the noisy ones," while the old judge concluded, therefore, that "Aunt Polly Russell would not like him very well." Soon after, Mr. Witter was ordained and installed over the church, having accepted an invitation to assume its pastoral charge. After twenty years of service, in 1848, on acc0unt of failing health, his connection with the church was dissolved. During his pastorate many awakenings occurred, notably in 1831, and in the winter and spring of 1833-34. At this time a very general and deep religious interest prevailed throughout all the region.

In Claridon a revival meeting of great power was held, conducted by an evangelist—Rev. Mr. Foote. Mr. Witter aided, and the Burton church shared, largely in its results. The work of grace pervaded the entire town, and, as the result, fifty-seven were added to the church, March 16, 1834, and subsequently others, nearly, or quite doubling its membership. During these twenty years the number of church members was increased nearly five fold.

In June, 1829, Mr, Witter married Emily Moss, daughter of Jared Moss, of Oneida county, N. Y,, formerly of Cheshire, Connecticut, She was also a niece of Judge Hicthcock. After a happy and helpful union of twenty-six years,, she died suddenly, of dysentary, September 16, 1855.

The next eight years of his life, following his retirement from the Burton pulpit, were spent in efforts to regain health, and, so far as he was able, in supplying the churches in Middlefield, and South Newbury.

In the summer of 1857, on resignation of the late pastor Rev. E. Bushnell, he was invited to resume labor, and for the next ten years served the church, with such constancy as his impaired health would allow. Since then, until now, he has identified himself with the spiritual interests of the congregrtion, and met occasional calls for service, as health would permit. He is one of the most regular attendants upon the sanctuary, his seat rarely being vacant, and each successive Sabbath finds him at the head of his class in Sabbath-school.

For half a century he has been identified with the religious and social interests of Burton, a man respected and beloved by all the community. During the period of 50 years he has solemnized much the larger portion of all weddings occurring; has been welcomed at the bed side of the srck, and called by hundreds to perform the last sad rites at the burial of departed ones. His wonderfully clear voice, in winning accents, has told to this people the story of the Cross for nearly two generations, and he is affectionately known as the "father in Israel" by all the people, irrespective of creed. On the occasion of the semi- centennial anniversary of the church organization, August 22, 1858, he preached a sermon of remarkable appropriateness, from Psalms xx, 5: "We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God will we set up our banners," On March 31, 1859, he was united in marriage with

Miss Mary DeForest—of Cincinnati, This woman, early so gifted, and entering so much into Mr. Witter's later life, should not be overlooked. Of New England origin, early in life thrown upon her own resources, she chose teaching as employment, and bent every energy to fitting herself for the work. At twenty years of age, in the fall of 1831, she came west, stopping at the young Queen City of Ohio, The journey, by canal and stage, occupied nearly four weeks' time, The spring of 1832 was marked by a great flood in Cincinnati and the surrounding country, as was the fall of that year by the first visitation of the dreaded ch0lera, This terrible disease, by its widespread devastation, caused so many to flee for safety that Miss DeForest's business was very much interrupted thereby—so much so, that she came to the northern part of the

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 487

State, teaching for a year, or more, in Talmadge and Wooster. From thence she went to Harrodsburgh, Kentucky. This place was noted for its springs, and as a summer resort for Southern people. Her home was with a family, on the paternal side of northern extraction, in high standing, to which came that summer a girl baby, afterwards the wife of Secretary Belknap. However, subsequent criticisms caused by her thoughtlessness may have been just, certainly nothing should attach to her family on this account, for none at home stood higher in the public estimation.

In the fall of 1835 Miss DeForest took charge of a large academical school at Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, thirty miles east of Lexington. Here, for a number of years, she was engaged in training to a higher education hundreds of fair Kentucky girls, An accomplished equestrienne, she took much pleasure in horseback riding, sometimes extending her rides to journeys of fifty miles, In this way she rode one or more times between Mayville and Mt. Sterling, it being fully that distance.

In the early part of 1842, impaired health forced her to take rest, but after a few months at the sea shore, the fall of that year found her again at her life work, in the city of Cincinnati, Here, for seventeen years, she labored in the "Wesleyan Female College," the first female college chartered in Ohio, Connected with it, when under another name, before its charter, to it she gave these best years of her life, devotedly and efficiently working, rejoicing and sharing in its growing enlargement and success, thus largely helping to establish it upon a permanent foundation, During these years, large numbers were added to the Alumnae and under-graduates. Of the three thousand in the institution from its commencement until 1860, a great portion, for more or less of the time, received instruction from the subject of this sketch. Among these are noticed Mary R. Grant, of Covington, Kentucky, sister of General Grant, and Miss Simpson, a niece of the general, also of Covington, who graduated about 1848. Not least, if last, Mrs. President Hayes, then Miss Lucy Webb, of Cincinnati, who graduated in 1850. Thirty years have since passed, but her memory is still green in the hearts of her teachers and college companions, as does admiration for her, now fill the hearts of the American people, Miss DeForest, always decided in her convicti0ns, and fearless in their expression, so carried herself in the many years she taught upon Kentucky soil, that, with her known aversion to slavery, she was still given a warm welcome to the homes and hearts of the kind-hearted, hospitable, and enthusiastic people, among whom she lived and taught. Once, riding in the stage with a leading politician, and others of that State, conversation was upon the subject, and, without hesitation, she said: "Slavery is legally right, but not morally." The Southerner's quick reply was valorous: "If you were a man, I'd hang you to the first tree."

She was a literary writer of some note, frequently contributing to leading magazines. The appended extract is from a poem by her pen, read before the Alumnae association of the college mentioned, in June, 1868, which was much admired, both for its sentiment and execution:

"WHAT OF THE NIGHT,

"Gentle sisters, What of the night?

Gleameth a star from its dizzy height ?

Flasheth a ray 'thwart its dark abyss,

That the narrow way we need not miss?

My heart goes a tonging; dear ones, say,

What of the night, and what of the day?

"We are out on the ocean with banners broad,

And we bear them aloft for truth and God.

Though shoals ate around us and quicksands deep,

We know that our Pilot is never asleep ;

488 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

Yet oft, when we come to a perilous strait,

When the rock and the whirlpool our bark await.

While fearfut and troubled, we watch and pray,

Or cast out our anchor and wait for day.

"And this is the answer that cometh to me,

From over the mountain, and over the sea:

Glad anthems of triumph, of hope, and of trust,

And heart-broken requiems of 'dust unto dust'.

My sisters look upward. The night waneth now.

But over the mist there bendeth a bow—

The bow of the covenant, beautifut still,

As when it first glowed, over valley and hill."

Since coming to Burton, as the wife of Mr. Witter, Mrs. Witter has been active in all those good works commanding woman's effort; as, religion, benevolence, temperance, etc. Especially, with her life-long habit of teaching, she has been very active in the Sabbath-school, still maintaining a large class of young, middle-aged, and older women, through which she has had much to do rn training, developing, and guiding their religious life and character. She still lives with Mr. Witter, at their pleasant home in Burton.

After Mr. Witter's forced retirement, on account of ill health, the pulpit was supplied, for one year, by Rev. George Kearcher, followed by Revs. L Rose and B. S. Page, each occupying it several months. Next, Rev. Ebenezer Bushnell, a graduate of Western Reserve college, accepted an invitation to preach, and on the 15th day of January, 1851, was constituted pastor, continuing this relation until the last Sabbath in March, 1857, he closed his labors, having yielded to a call from another field. Under his labors, during the fall and winter of 1853-54, occurred quite an interesting revival, by which were added to the church-roll about forty names. In the fall of 1866, the Rev. Wm. H. Rice, of Oberlin, undertook the supply of the pulpit, but failing health forced him to abandon it. In the winter of 1867, the Rev. D. C. White was invited to occupy the pulpit; continuing in this service four years. Following him, was the Rev. G. C. Reed, for two or more years, and then Rev. James B. Hoyt, for three years, followed by Rev. Charles Cutler, the present incumbent—a clear-headed, thoughtful pastor, and pleasant christian gentleman.

1811. Methooist.—The date of the founding of the Methodist Episcopal church is not clear. Mrs. Polly Russell fixed it, and Rev. Witter states it in his semi-centennial discourse, as about 1806. It seems more probable &Methodist exhorter appeard about that date. The Revs. Charles and Ewens are men.tioned as first regular preachers. They were sent out by the venerated Bishop Asbury. Elijah Hayes well remembers hearing them preach in the first academy, he thinks about 1808. The first class was started by Elder Winans and a Mr. Riley. After the society was formed, Samuel Burton was the first class leader.

Seth Burton says he was baptized by "pouring," at Luther Russell's house, the year 1812, by Eloer Young, and thinks the church was organized about 1811. He names the members at that time: Lybbeus Herrick, Prrscilla Herrick, Seth Hayes, sr., Elizabeth Hayes, Ira Hayes, Enos Hayes, Lorin and Daniel Hayes, Mrs. Eli Hayes, Mrs. Joseph Hayes, Oliver and Sybil Hayes, Samuel Burton, Olive Burton, Polly Moss, Betsey Moss, and Susannah Babcock. Elijah Hayes gives the same date as Burton—1811.

The first camp meeting was held in the woods south of Russell's house, a few rods, and near the spring, The underbrush was cut out and cleared away. The same great trees that shaded that meeting, are still standing. At a later day a camp meeting was held in a grove just northwest of where the present church stands. The tremendous voices 0f some 0f the preachers then, were so clear and strong as to be heard at Col. Stephen Ford's residence, nearly a mile east. Rev. Green preached in the 2d academy, southeast corner

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 489

of the square, and in the summer his words, some of them, could be heard at Gilum Hotchkiss' house. Another meeting was at the foot of Weltorn's gulf, on lot 19. Lucius Merriman tells that the voice of the preachers followed up the gulf. and was quite plainly heard at their house, on lot 8, more than a mile away.

Considerable prejudice existed against the Methodists. It is related that Mr. Coe lectured his students and advised them in school, not to attend the meetings. When he was through, David Tod rose up, and in his cool way, announced a prayer meeting at Brother Durand's that evening and invited all who were present to attend.

One of the early preachers, long known as " Billy Brown," was preaching at the house of Andrew Durand. Harriet Cook and other girls, accompanied by Edwin Ferris, came in with ribbons on their bonnets. Brown turned his attention to the display, and reminded the young ladies that they would one day wear other dress—a "winding sheet and shroud." Then Methodists were known by their plainness; now, says "Father Mitchell," an old preacher, over eighty years of age, "they are known by the extravagance of dress."

Billy Brown was a rare preacher. In dead earnest he plead for the repentance of men. His eccentric ways and strange illustrations sometimes provoked mirth. He was an interesting speaker, and people turned out to hear him. Dr. Goodwin called him an educated man, and said he could give the whole anatomy of man, better than any surgeon he knew. His vigorous mind dealt with wrongs, dangers and damnation, with such 'force as only a remarkable tongue could utter. Old residents describe him talking of hell, his arms beating wildly, with fists clinched, and his tongue licking from corner to corner of his mouth, lopping out almost to his ears, while he told, in flaming words: "Brethren a-h, there is an impassable gulf a-h, between heaven and hell a-h. I see it a-h, with a long pole a-h across it a-h; people a-h a trying to cross over a-h. Unbelievers and scoffers a-h get on the pole a-h, and it begins to wiggle a-h and a wiggle a-h, and there is a great black dog a-h way down below a-h, and they tumble off a-h down to the black dog a-h, and he gives them the itch a-h, and they scratch and they scratch a-h for all 'etarnity' a-h." -

His studies of Scripture gave him power in description of the size, length, breadth, height and depth of heaven. Its jasper walls and streets of gold were the marvelous wonders of his tongue. In the woods of Montville, at a later day, he had a saw-mill. He died in that town.

1838. Disciples.—In 1835 John A. Ford and his wife, and Adeline Barnes, Mrs. Ford's sister, attended a meeting in Chardon, became believers, and were immersed. Elder William Collins was invited to visit Burton. He came, and preached with such effect that a church was organized in 1838, with John A. Ford and Joseph Woodard, elders. About 1843 a house of worship was built on the east of the square, south of Carlos Williams' present residence. In this, for many years, preaching was had, and maay protracted meetings of interest were held. The names of Elders Collins, Vial, Williams, Hayden, Hartzel, Green, Belding, Munnell, Harrison Jones, and Calvin Smith, are still remembered, as preachers of the Word, faithful to their calling. Their preaching had good effect in turning people back to a study of the Bible. On the removal of Mr. Ford, in 1858, the church ceased to meet, and the property was sold, the proceeds being donated to the cause of education, in Hiram college.

The Universalists—had no organization here, but some families held to the doctrine. John Ford, Hyde, Noah Hall, and Edson, were so claimed, and the Williamses. Some of their ministers preached in the academy, and Ebenezer Williams, of Kirtland, preached in the hall of John Ford's house. A Mr. Hoag preached here at one time.

490 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

MUSIC.

The first mention of public singing is given as being at the meeting in the house of Isaac Clark, July, 1802. Jonathan Brooks was chorister, and Elijah Hayes, a six-year old boy, remembers him pitching the time—Fa—Sol—La-Me—Fa. Isaac and Ephraim Clark, brothers, stood up with him, and they all sang vigorously.

The 1st Singing School-was under his instruction, and he early taught notes in the school-house, northwest corner of the square. His children and grandchildren were great lovers of music, and some were excellent performers.

Of the first Violinists—Lyman Durand stood ahead. Dennis Cramton played, and Garry Cramton became widely known. Later Alfred Utley and Orlando Hoadley. G. Cramton says Anna Brown, daughter of Freeman; is the best player ever in town, bringing out the sweetest tones of the violin.

At the dedication of the Congregational church, 1837, the flute, violin and bass-viol accompanied the singing.

One September day in 1825, Benjamin Johnson was buried. The masons marched in the funeral cortege, from the house "across the river," and in military order. He had been a soldier of the revolution, and the music led to the grave. A singular and solemn band timed the steps of that train. Leonard Sweat played the clarionet, Selden Brooks the flute, Ira Hoadley the violin, Major John Brown befit the muffled snare, and H. H. Ford, a boy of 11 years, the bass-drum.

Lemon Sperry—was full of singing, and led when meetings were held in the academy, east of the square. The singers stood up in line—the boys on one side and girls on the other hand, and Sperry in the middle. He always beat time vehemently, and kept stepping ahead. When the hymn was sung, he would be several feet in front, and away from his class, all the while keeping his eyes to the book, and his back to his companions.

A man of kind heart, he will be remembered, as will his characteristic oddities and looks. He drove to church in a kind of four-wheel cab, the coach part being a sort of high box, large enough to seat two or three persons, and painted yellow. It was drawn by one horse, "Old Dill," and the bell crowned hat on his head, was about as tall as could be admitted into the coach, without stooping.

He lived some time with Judge Hitchcock, and after he started on the farm for himself, used to visit the judge. His peculiar habit was to visit at night, and he would sit and talk with his neighbors all night, if they were so inclined. The judge was a man of regular habits. When bedtime came, the judge would light a candle, and say, "Come, Sperry, here's a candle—take it, and go up-stairs to bed." Oh, no, said Sperry, I must go home, and started off.

The story is told that in a singing school held in the school-house, then standing near Middlefield corners, he led the class, beating time with his foot, and stepping backwards. A trap door, was in some way connected with the floor for a pass way under it, and a rogue of a boy slid it aside. Sperry kept tramping on his backward beat, and went down into it two feet, to the great amusement of the class and lookers-on.

Another instance is related, when he beat right and left, and upset the only candle, leaving the class in darkness. A man of good impulses, he was an obliging neighbor.

At his request, the music of the church bell went sounding across the valley of the Cuyahoga, rejoicing with him in the ringing, at the time of his 3d marriage, and the friends joined hands in circle round the happy pair, when the ceremony was said by Parson Witter.

Marcus Dickerman—came in November, 1828. He had an ear and a soul

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 491

for music, and an eye for red cattle. He often drove to town the finest devon steers, matched, and yoked to a cart. He taught singing in the log schoolhouses "over the river," when he lived back by the spring, in the Bentley house. The Dickerman lot, as this came to be known afterwards, was cleared by Mr. Holbrook, in 1806, and in 1807; John Ford and Captain Patchin harvested a crop of wheat for him, on the lot. With two or three pairs of cattle, hitched to a sled, he would start out of a winter evening; the children in the neighborhood would pile on, and a jolly crew went riding to the school-house where he taught singing. Robert Hotchkiss and Burrit Wilmot, led in the Congregational church, and after them, in 1842, came

Andrew Fowler—with a fine tenor voice. He was popular and efficient, leading and teaching about 12 years. In the Methodist meetings Joel T. Meth- man sang, with great spirit, for many years, and his voice still echoes on the recollections of those who gathered at class-meeting in that church. With the Disciples, Adeline Hoadley sang most sweetly. Though the church be broken and' scattered, there are those who bring back the soul-thrilling melody of her song, and the words: "0, Lord of rest, for Thee I sigh;" or, "The year of jubilee has come,"

The martial music was centered here from all parts of the county, on "general training days." Major John Brown and the rapid roll of his snare drum, beats back on the years that are gone, and the shrill whistle of Robert Burnett's fife calls over the days of muster men, and boys, with fists full of "ginger-bread and 'lasses candy." After the grand parade of uniformed militia, and gaily-mounted officers, came horse races, west of Pinney's tavern; the free flow of whiskey; the bettings; and always, the fight, after which somebody was sure to run, with a black eye, for the 'Squire, and try to have the bully, who had knocked him, arrested. But the steady old 'Squires generally let pounder and the pounded go, without legal attention. Of later years, the bugle's call has been heard throughout the land. In October, 1859, a military band was organized, and was taught by Prof. F. A. Eilman. It was uniformed in blue. O. B. Hoadley was leader from the first, and they remained together until 1866. They were the escort of Co. B, 41st O. V. infantry, going into camp, in Cleveland, in 1861. They gained quite a reputation, and were called to go on excursions, and, by invitation from the steamer's officers, made the round trip of the upper lakes, on the "North Star," in the year 1860.

Their music was fine, and they often played at Hiram on commencement days. The year 1877, a full band was organized, with new instruments, and a tasty uniform was adopted the next year. The organization stands:

R. N. Ford, leader, - E flat cornet.

O. B. Hoadley, - E flat cornet.

Died August 29, 1879; place filled by Byron Canfield.:

John Kozak, - E flat clarionet.

A. J. Thrasher, - B flat clarionet.

W. E. Jaques, - Principal B flat cornet.

C. H. Bradley, - 1st B flat cornet.

. E. Ludlow, - 2d B flat cornet.

F, E. Rice, - 3d B flat cornet.

F, A. Parmele, - Solo E flat alto.

Clarence Brown, - 1st E flat alto.

Kent Bradley, - 2d E flat alto.

Clarence Hotchkiss, - 1st B flat tenor.

Burt Reed, - 2d B flat tenor.

Eugene E. Jaques, - Baritone.

H. C. Tuttle, - 1st E flat tubas.

492 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

P. W. Parmele, - 2d E flat tubas.

Elmer Charter, - Tenor drum.

D. L. Johnson, - Bass drum.

C. F. Burleigh, - Cymbals.

Many of the members have fine tastes in music, and have cultivated a love for it. Under a leader who is fully in advance with the day and who composes and writes music, they are well drilled.

The finest pieces, and most difficult, from the great composers, are readily executed by them.

In 1878, George W. Jaques raised funds, and a stand was built on the north of the park, where Saturday evening concerts are given. In the summer months, crowds of people gather in from the surrounding towns to enjoy splendid notes from operatic selections—the "Overture to Poet and Peasant," or the pathos of the "Sweet By-and-By," as they keyed its touching strains in sweet harmony, and timed them floating away on the evening air to grateful ears. The time of this band may be spoken of, as perfect. They meet for practice weekly.

On the death of 0. B. Hoadley, they were out in full uniform, at the funeral, Sunday, August 31, 1879, and marched with the hearse, paying all respect and honor to the dead brother. At the grave they played "Rest, Spirit, Rest," and "Nearer, My God, to Thee." The stano was draped with crape.

The music in the Congregational church service attracts the attention of visitors, as being uncommonly choice for the country. Several trained voices carry the parts, led by an organ, and while, in the old fashioned style, it comes to the backs of the congregation, the music is rarely as well executed.

MILITARY.

1776. The American Revolution was a war of uncertainty, because of untried and unknown forces, against a time-honored and world-renowned power.

Of the active service of the patriots, in that great struggle, who afterwards located in Burton, there is no account, other than the little items where their names occur, in the sketches of early settlement.

1812. As if the wind had published it, and every breath was an Indian whoop, the news of Hull's surrender, August 16th, spread through the wilds of this new country. General Paine dashed from Painesville to Burton, it is said, leaving his hat in the brush, to give orders in person as to the gathering of the militia, and marching to Cleveland. A battalion was raised, and, with Colonel Beard, and Major Hickox, were first to report there. They were ordered to throw up earthworks on Walworth run, and prepared for a vigorous defense against the merciless foe, rumored pushing on down from Sandusky and Huron. Col. Jedediah Beard was in command of the regiment, and soon had a well- organized camp. The quick response to the call, made a clean sweep of Burton. Gilbert J. Ferris was sick on his bed, with rheumatism, but he roused up and hobbled off on a mop-stick for a crutch, to a wagon with supplies and baggage, and went through. They marched to Chardon and Kirtland, crossing the Chagrin at Abbot's (Willoughby), where there was a bridge. Hickox had gone in advance, and, swimming his horse, in the high water at another point, was near being lost.

Thomas Davidson, relating his stories to Mr. Cay, used to tell of the soldiers riding the few horses they had, from the camp to the lake for water, and continuously back and forth, all day, to make the enemy believe that a great troop had gathered in the defense. Mr. Hitchc0ck has so well written the general account of 1812, and also of 1861, that there is little left that would not be repetition.

Drafting men for the service took place, September 26, 1812, and February 3d and 6th, 1813. By order of Lieut. Col. Jedediah Beard, of the 1st regiment, 4th

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 493

brigade, and 4th division, of Ohio militia, a court martial was held at Cleveland, on the 2d of May, 1813, for trial of men neglecting to report, under the draft. Among the members of the court was Capt. V. Stone, and Peter Hitchcock was judge advocate. Twenty men were arraigned, and with their names appear Daniel Dayton and Seth Hayes. They were fined from $90 to $114 each. Peter Hitchcock held commands from captain to major general. As colonel, he called another board of officers, convened at Chardon, September 14, 1814, to adjudge delinquents, some of whom had been fined at Cleveland. Fifteen hundred men of the 4th division were ordered to the frontier by the secretary of war—order issued September 5, 1812.

Of the soldiers of 1812, only Richaro Slitor, in Troy, and Anson Fowler and Stephen Ford, in Burton, are now living.

The first militia organization was effected early—about 1803. J. S. Cleveland, the first merchant, was elected captain; Jedediah Beard, lieutenant; and Lyman Benton, ensign. Eli, Seth, and Joseph Hayes, trained in the company. Mililia duty was regularly attended for years after the war of 1812, ano the general trainings will long be remembered. The last encampment was in command of General Eleazer Paine, on the 61d Umberfield lot, west of the Congregational church and Union school building, in 1845. There young Allen was killed.

The old " Floodwood Company" mustered a motley crowd of men. They drilled with hoes, sticks, and brush brooms. George Boughton was an enrolled member, and speaks of "Joe Eastman" as captain. By the close of the day he was "pretty full," and marched his company to Umberfield's tavern, halting them in line. Then, the characteristic order came, "Right about face! Go home, d—n you, and tell your wives and sweethearts what a good time you have had!" They were marching towards the tavern at another time, and did not "Right wheel," when ordered, and he shouted, "Right wheel !" the second time, but they marched on, when he roared, "Right wheel! d—n you, or I won't treat your'

Resting from the defense against British usurpation, the country prospered, and the cultivated land widened out in all her borders. But the prosperity was a delusion. Equal rights to all men was a declaration, discussed full three quarters of a century by the nation, and prayed and wept over by a despised race, for more than two hundred and forty years. Debate was ended, and the oppressor stalked forth at midnight from the national senate chamber, and set the gauge of battle.

The South called it a revolution, but the first flash upon the fortress by the sea of South Carolian, was followed by a never ending echo from the guns of Sumter that fixed it a rebellion, and the last black man's shout of victory, in the deserted streets of Richmond, finished it a rebellion. Into the mighty arena of war and death, between 1861 and '65, Burton sent her full quota of soldierly men. Some sleep where they went down, others rest beside their kin at home. Many were maimed and scarred, and some were veterans. Those that came back to the duties of citizenship, the swift years have changed, ano the boys of '61 are men with deepened face lines, and hairs of grey. The reports of the killed, wounded and dead cannot in all casses be obtained. To save a record of all the names of those in the service, is the effort. It may be incomplete in the roll list, but will be made up from all the means at command.

The nucleus of the 41st Ohio, Col. W. B. Hazen, was fixed in Burton. So many of our men served in that regiment, that we quote from the pen' of Maj. Henry W. Johnson, relating to its start. A company of militia of reserve was organized the summer of 1861. On call for three years men, the company was in line. E. A. Ford, captain, asked those that were ready to enlist to step out

494 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

in front of the ranks. 7 men stepped to the front. E. A. Ford, H. W. Johnson, James B. Cleveland, C. H. Talcott, L. T. Patchin, Henry Hotchkiss, and Martin Taylor, enlisted. The 7 visited Newbury, South Newbury, Auburn, Troy, Parkman, Middlefield, and Huntsburgh, marching all the round, bivouacing in halls at night, and fed by the ladies. They held rousing meetings, making speeches, singing songs and enlisting men at these places, Bruning up the roll to t00, the men falling in and going on to the next town, until the company was so large, that all could not be accepted.

In Camp Wood, at Cleveland, E. A. Ford, first called on the roll, nominated W. R. Tolles for captain; W. W. Munn, 1st lieutenant; and H. W. Johnson, d lieutenant, and they were elected, Ford being made 1st sergeant. In the battle of Stone River he was shot through, but recovered, and was afterwards promoted captain, and is now living in St. Louis, Johnson became quarter-master, then major, and served through the war. He was acting adjutant-general in the Mississippi department, and is now living in Michigan City, Indiana. Cleveland was promoted lieutenant. Talcott was d lieutenant, and fell m0rtally wounded by a piece of shell, at Shiloh. His body was encased by W. J. Ford, and the remains brought home. He sleeps in the cemetery east of the village, and Patchin rests beside him. Patchin was 2d lieutenant and wounded at Stone River. He died in the hospital at Nashville. Hotchkiss came through the service, and is now living at the Oak hill farm. Taylor died in the hospital at Nashville, Tennessee, March d, 1863. W. R. Tones became colonel of the 105th Ohio, and did gallant service. He is now living in California. It would be interesting to follow the history of the soldiers in any of these wars, but there is not further space.

MILITARY ROSTER,

WAR OF THE REVOLUTION.

Thaddeus Bradley,

Caleb Fowler,

Marimon Cook,

Benjamin Johnson.

Ephraim Clark,

WAR OF 1812.

From the limited sources of information, it is difficult to gain much 'that is very reliable. Of. the company that went to Cleveland, some returned soon, others volunteered for three months, and others for the war, but on the roll hereafter given, the enlistments are not specified.

OFFICERS.

Jedediah Beard. lieut. colonel,

Vene Stone. captain,

Eleazer Hickox, major,

Eli Fowler, lieutenant,

Peter Hitchcock, adjutant,

Simeon Moss, ensign,

Eleazer Patchin, quartermaster,

Dr. Erastus Goodwin, surgeon.

MEN.

Amos Andrews,

Ebenezer Green,

Samuel Burton,

Ebenezer Hayes,

Jacob Burton,

Seth Hayes,

Jonathan Brooks,

Joseph Hayes,

Gomer Bradley

Eli Hayes,

Selah Bradley,

Daniel Hayes,

Justus Bradley,

Samuel Hopson,

Sherebiah Burnett,

Nathan Hanchet,

Amariah Beard,

David Hill,

David Barrett,

Uri Hickox,

Lyman Benton,

Freeman Hyde,

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 495

John Charter,

Joseph Johnson,

Solomon Charter,

Frederick Loveland,

Adolphus Carbon,

Joseph Noyes,

Guy Carlton,

Noah Page,

John Cook

Lemuel Punderson,

Lyman Durand

Solomon Parks.

Daniel Dayton,

Phineas Pond,

Andrew Durand,

Simeon Rose,

Thomas Davidson,

Luther Russel,

Burt Durand,

Nathaniel Spencer,

Gideon Finch,

Isaac Thompson,

Gilbert Ferris,

Asa Wilmot,

Matthew Fleming,

Calvin Williams,

Stephen Ford,

Robert Wallace. - 58

Adding to this the two or three from Middlefield, and it brings the number up to 61, as it has been often stated that about sixty went out to Cleveland to meet the Indians.

Anson Fowler served in Connecticut.

Richard Slitor served in New York. - 2

Total, - 60

1861 - WAR FOR THE UNION - 1865.

SIXTH U. S. CAVALRY.

Francisco Leach, sergeant, discharged at City Point, August 4th, 864.

SIXTH OHIO CAVALRY.

John O'Connor, enlisted in camp at Cleveland. Died.

NINTH OHIO ARTILLERY—INDEPENDENT BATTERY.

Perry D, Bishop

Gilbert Orcutt,

J M. Bishop, Died October 2d, 1862.

Newell S. Orcutt, killed by guerillas Dec. 23rd, 1863, and by order of General Thomas, the county in Kentucky had to pay $10,000 to his mother

Amelius Carlton, Dead

John Barthoremew,

Henry Charter, discharged June 16, 1863.

George A, Carlton, discharged December 27th, 1862.

George J. Rundall, 1st lieutenant. Mustered out at expiration of term of service.

Edward G. Conant, discharged for disability May 25, 1863.

Volney S. Sperry, artificer. Discharged June 16, 1865. Dead

Edward Daniels, 2d enlistment.

Robert H. Smith.

William J. Koon, discharged Dec. 17^th, 1864, to re-enlist.

Leroy Simmons,

John Sowers, discharged June 16th, 1865,

William H. Lattin, discharged June 16^th, 1865.

Myron C. Winters, discharged June 16^th, 1865 - 18

NINETEENTH OHIO BATTERY.

Charles E. Silvernail, - 1

FIFTH OHIO VETERAN INFANTRY.

Francisco Leach, corporal, 2d enlistment. Mustered out June 5th, 1865.

SEVENTH 0. V. INFANTRY.

Martin Britton, transferred by S. 0. 156, June 11, 1864.

B. F. Hawkins, discharged for wounds March 3, 1863.

Rinaldo R. Cramton, 3 months.

Sylvester Lerch, 3 months.

Addison Furrow, left in field at Ackworth, Ga., by S. F. 0. No. 136. Dead. 

Edgar Leach, 3 months. - 6

TWENTY-THIRD 0. V. INFANTRY.

John H. Lindley, scout. Killed.

Edgar Leach, ad enlistment.

Sylvester Leach, 2d enlistment. - 3

TWENTY-NINTH 0. V. INFANTRY.

Noah Downey,

Richard Seger.

Charles Downey. Dead - 3

FORTY-FIRST 0. V. INFANTRY.

Edward L. Andrews, discharged for disability June 3d,1862. 

Edward Daniels.

Elias A. Ford, sergeant, promoted to 1st lieutenant, brevet captain. Wounded at Stone River. Resigned June 3d, 1863,

Ransom D. Burton, discharged by order War Dept. June 13th, 1863. 

David 0. Burton, discharged for disability July 7th, 1862.

Henry Hotchkiss, discharged at expiration of service, Sept. 8th. 1864.

Levi B. Cousins, re-enlisted.

H. W. Johnson, 2d lieutenant, promoted to captain and major, and was adjutant general Mississippi department,

Edward A. Carlton, corporal, died of  wounds Dec. 23, 1863,

496 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY OHIO,

Mortimer L, Cottain, discharged for disability May 18th, 1865,- 

William J. Koon, re-enlisted as veteran,

Eugene Lattin.

James B. Cleveland, sergeant, promoted 2d lieutenant March 31st, 1863,

Lester T. Patchin, sergeant, promoted 2d lieutenant, and wounded at Stone River, Died at Nashville, Tenn.

Edward Conlon, died of wounds,

John C. Chellis, rost leg at Mission Ridge, Discharged for disability July 7th, 1863,

Enoch S, Slitor, died March Roth, 1862,

J. G, Slitor, discharged July 17th, 1863,

Clark Coon, discharged for disability Dec, 31st, 1862. 

Chauncey H, Talcott, sergeant, promoted 2d lieutenant, January 28th, 1862, Killed at Shiloh by piece of shell

Ambrose Crosby,

Orville Crippen, corporal. Discharged Oct, 15th, 1865.

Martin Taylor, died March 2d, 1863, at Nashville, Tenn,

Henry T, Davidson, color bearer, Mustered out with regiment Oct. 15th, 1865.

Henry 0. Wilson. - 25

EIGHTY-FIFTH O, V. INFANTRY,

George H. Ford, company B, 

EIGHTY-SEVENTH 0. Y. INFANTRY,

Reuben S. Spencer. Mustered out October 3d, 1862,

0NE HUNDRED AND FIFTH O, V, INFANTRY.

William R, Tones, lieut, colonel, Wounded at Lookout Mountain. Resigned Jan. 29th, 1864,

Ansel R, Burnett, musician. Dead,

Henry Halen,

Levi B. Cousins, 2d enlistment, discharged by order of War department June 13, 1865

George King., James H. Norton, transferred to veteran reserve corps, March 16, 1865

C. F, Doolittle, kirled by sharpshooters at Kenesaw Mountain, June 23d, 1864. 

Sherman C. Slade, discharged for disability Sept. 19th, 1865,

Rilley Dayton, Dead, 

William Dayton, died in Andersonville prison

Amos H, Silvemail, died Oct. 9th, 1862.

Walter Strickland, died April 23d, 1865,

Charles C, Hitchcock, killed at Chaplin Hills, Oct. 8th, 1862. 

W. R. Tuttle, 1st lieutenant, promoted to captain Dec. 15th 1862.

Elias B, Hale, killed near Atlanta, August 28th, 1864 - 15

ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-EIGHTH 0. V. INFANTRY,

Wesley Brown,

Warren T. Hayes,

Willis Cay,

W. E. Jaques, musician,

John Cay,

Joseph Stacy,

Eli Charter,

Justus Smith,

Rinaldo R. Cramton, 2d enlistment,

Jeffrey Silvernail,

Ephraim T, Cook,

Amon H. Silvernail,

Henry Downey,

Giles Taylor,

Cyrenus Gould,

Morris Truman, - 16

ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-SEVENTH 0. V. INFANTRY,

John B, Corey.

G. Conant,

Henry Forrow,

Cyrus Goodrich, Dead.

Monroe Herendeen,

John Hoadley,

Chester T. Hawkins, teamster,

Truman Hubbard,,

Delos A. Reed, enlisted from Troy.

Barnum J, Slitor,

Zachariah Washington (colored), died in camp.

ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-FIRST OHIO NATIONAL GUARDS,

One Hundred Days' Service,

Peter Hitchcock, captain,

Newton P. Latham,

Joseph E. Johnson, 1st lieutenant, dead.

Austin L. Milliard, corporal,

la. L, Bradley, 2d lieutenant,

J. M, Moore.

S. D. Bishop, dead,

Henry L, Merriman,

Silas L, Beard,

Charles Morton,

Murray Brown.

David J. Merriman.

Sherebiah Burnett, musician,

Dwight H, Osborn.

Samuel D. Cook, corporal

Samuel C. Hotchkiss, sergeant.

John C, Doolittle,

John Dickerman.

Harrison Hoard,

James Humiston.

Wesley Doty, 

Reuben A, Hitchcock,

Henry E. Ford, corporal.

Horace L. Hale.

Timothy H, Fowler,

Noah B, Page, sergeant,

Andrew L. Fowler,

Lucien Spring.

Asher Forrow.

J. G. Slitor, 2d enlistment.

J. S. Granger, died. 

Earl Talcott, corporal

George W. Jaques, corporal, promoted to sergeant, 

Albert J, Tuttle.

Lewis J. Welton.

J. V. Whitney.

Daniel L, Johnson, musician, [Officers, 3 Men, 34, Total 37]

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 497

ENLISTED MEN FR0M BURTON,

Regiment not given.

Lewis Melvin.

Thayer, for Burton, - 2

SQUIRREL HUNTERS.

"They were Legion,"

RECAPITULATION.

6th U, S, cavalry - 1 - Brought forward - 34

6th Ohio volunteer cavalry - 1 - 41st Ohio volunteer infantry - 25

9th Ohio artillery - 18 - 85th Ohio volunteer infantry - 1

19th Ohio battery - 1 - 87th 0. V. infantry - 1

5th Ohio veteran infantry - 1 -105^th O. V. infantry - 15

7th Ohio volunteer infantry - 6 - 128th 0. V. infantry - 16

23d 0, V. infantry - 3 - 77th 0. V, infantry - 11

29th 0: V, infantry - 3 - 171st Ohio Nat. guards - 37

Carried forward - 34 - - Total - 40

Enlisted, regiment not given - 2

The account kept by H, H. Ford, from 1861 to 1865, shows:

Men hired where they could be found - 4

Men hired at the front - 8

Drafted—John Dickerman, Asher Forrow, James Granger, James Hetendeen, all of

whom furnished substitutes - 4

Total - 158

Money paid out for volunteers, including an expense of about $123,80, was.. $7,108.00

Of the above number, dead - 26

Soldiers of 1812, living - 3

1776. In the Revolution - 5

1812, In the war of 1812 - 60

1861, In the service for the Union - 158

Total - 223

THE SOLDIERS' AID SOCIETY.

Was organized in 1861. Mrs. Mary DeForrest Witter was chosen president and continued during the entire war, giving her earnest attention to the work, and having the constant support of high spirited and patriotic ladies. The gifts, for the benefit of the soldiers, by actual appraisement amounted to $1,460. Of this $590 was paid in money. The other officers were :

Mrs. Richard Beach, - Vice-President

Mrs. Mary E. Hotchkiss, - Secretary.

Mrs. S. Dayton, - Treasurer.

At a later period Mrs. Harriet Ford was also chosen as a vice-president, and Mrs. Hotchkiss resigned the secretaryship, her place being filled by Mrs. Witter. The society was composed of almost all of the ladies in town, and all contributed, in greater or less degree to its, efficiency and success. Many served as managers with great faithfulness, and all worked with heart and hand. The society was aided by concerts, and by school exhibitions, given by young people. A well managed system of district collections was instituted, and women gave freely and gladly of their means, while encouraging the good work by their personal labor and presence. Thus the society was enabled to furnish and forward monthly, and often semi-monthly, many large and valuable boxes to hospitals, and to Sanitary Commission at Cleveland. Lists of all things supplied, with valuations, by competent and chosen judges, are now on record on the books of the society and testify to the work wrought,

Many who helped on the patriotic work, who gave freely from their poverty or from their abundance, have passed away "to that bourne whence no traveler returns." We who are spared, can rejoice together, over the return of peace and prosperity to our beloved country.

498 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

SOCIETIES.

Agricultural Society—Free Masons and Odd Fellows are mentioned in the general county record.

Temperance.*—The first temperance society formed in Burton, 0f which we have any record, was organized June 1, 1832. It would appear, from the records of the secretary's book, that the constitution of the society had been previ0usly drafted, and some signatures obtained. How long previous to this date, is uncertain. The objects of this organization were succinctly stated in the preamble to its constitution, as follows: "Impressed with the fearful magnitude of the evils resulting to individuals, to families, and to our common country, from the noble and successful experiment already made in almost every section of our country, from the prevalent use of distilled liquors, and from the noble and successful experiment already made in almost every section of the country, believing that voluntary associations on the principle of entire abstinence, combining the influence of numbers and example, to be a most efficient means of resisting those evils, and suppressing their cause, therefore we the undersigned agree to form ourselves into a temperance association." The constitution, which was signed by all the members of the society, contained the pledge. By this signing, each member was bound to "consider himself pledged (until he withdrew his name), to entire abstinence from the use of ardent spirits, either, as an article of luxury or common use, except by the prescription of a physician, or where there is reason conscientiously to believe that a skillful physician would prescribe it as a medicine."

The association was styled "The Temperance Society of Burton and Vicinity." It had, during the course of its continuance, 222 members, Erastus Goodwin was chairman, and Seabury Ford, secretary pro. tem. of the first meeting. For the first year, Peter Hitchcock, was elected president; Erastus Goodwin, first vice-president; Seabury Ford, second vice-president, and Sherman Goodwin, now of Victoria, Texas, secretary,

These officers remained the same, the two following years, with the exception that Lawrence Hitchcock and George Boughton were successively elected secretaries. At the first meeting, an address was delivered by William L. Perkins, esq, On October 5, 1836, the association was dissolved, and a new one formed, with a constitution varying in some respects from the former. There were 66 signers to this constitution,

At some time previous to 1842, the Youth's Temperance Society was formed, concerning which the writer of this has no data.

About 1842, the Washingtonian Temperance wave struck Burton, A pledge was circulated, which read as follows: "We whose names are hereto annexed, believing that the use of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, is not only useless but hurtful to the social, civil and religious interests of man, that it tends to form intemperate appetites and habits, and that while it is continued, the evils of intemperance cannot be done away. Do, therefore, agree that we will not use them, nor traffrc in them as a beverage, that we will not provide them as an article of entertainment, or for persons in our employment, and that in all suitable ways we will discountenance their use throughout the community," To this pledge, 256 names were appended, Many meetings were held. Speakers were present from Cleveland and Pittsburg, and there was much excitement and enthusiasm, probably equaling if not exceeding the more recent Murphy movement in those respects, although not in the number of names obtained to a temperance pledge.

March 1, 1848, Geauga Division No. 419, of the Sons of Temperance, of the

*By Herbert W. Hitchcock,

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 499

town of Burton, State of Ohio, was formed. The preamble of its constitution declared the members "desirous of forming a society to shield us from the evils. of intemperance, afford mutual assistance in case of sickness, and elevate our characters as men." It differed from the societies in general, which preceded, in being a secret organization, and from both those which preceded and followed, in not including ladies in its membership. Its pledge was "no brother shall make, buy, sell, or use as a beverage, any spirituous or malt liquors, wine or cider. Tradition assigns about 75 as the number of its membership, and the lodge continued in operation as late as 1853. The regular meetings were held once a week. According to best information, Dr. J. H. Coulter, now of Columbus Ohio, was the first worthy patriarch; Dennis Cramton, past worthy patriarch; and P. Hitchcock; jr., worthy scribe. Dr. Coulter was deputy grand worthy patriarch for Geauga county. After him, Peter Hitchcock was appointed, on November 5, 1849, I), G, W, P,, which position he occupied for some years.

By the operation of this temperance society, men who were in the habit of drinking, were reformed, and considerable healthy temperance influence was exerted.

But a short period had elapsed after the close of the meetings of this lodge, when, on the 24th day of January, 1855, the Boanergian Temple, No. 75, Independent Order of Good Templars, was organized. The pledge of this lodge was "no member shall make, buy, sell, use, or give to others, as a beverage, any spirituous or malt liquors, wine, or cider, and shall discountenance the manufacture and sale thereof in all proper ways." The first members were P. Hitchcock, Eunice M, Ford, J. B, Waterton, Elizabeth Cook, Olive Cramton, Bernice A. Dayton, Anette Ford, Ed, H, Gaylord, Phidelia Gray, Henry K. Goodwin,. Samuel Hotchkiss, Henry \V. Johnson, Elias Merriman, M, F. Roberts, W. J. Smith, Wm, R. Tolles, Malvina Wheeler, Lucy A. Strickland, and perhaps others.

Peter Hitchcock was first worthy chief templar; Eunice M. Ford, worthy vice templar; J. B. Waterton, worthy treasurer, and Rev. E. Bushnell, chaplain. Regular meetings of the lodge were held once a week. This temple had a prosperous career, It continued in operation over six years, and would probably, for a longer period, but for the breaking out of the war, and the enlistment in the army of a number of its members, who carried away with them its charter. During its continuance, it comprised in its membership, 177 persons. June r, 1855, Peter Hitchcock was appointed District Deputy Grand W. C. T., for Geauga district. In this position, and the corresponding one held by him previously, in the Sons of Temperance organization, he organized a large number of lodges in different towns of the county.

In pursuance of an invitation given by Boanergian Lodge, delegates from various lodges in Geauga, Co., met in their hall on the 27th of February, 1858. Motion was made and carried by them that we proceed to the forming of an associated lodge. The names of the delegates from the different lodges represented were as follows: Veto--John Good, Nelson Parker, Lucius Harris, W. E. Parr, L. Parr. Geauga—C. N. Phelps, N. Matthews, Miss L. Matthews, Miss A. Lovejoy, J, M. Batchelder, Evergreen-:-.L. T. Barrows, W. W. James, R. P. Lampson. Excelsior—M. Truman, O. M. Barnes. Luminary—Thompson (probably B. F,) Boanergian—S. F. Pierson, J. M, Cook, S. Hotch- kiss' L T. Patchin, Miss E. M. Ford, Miss E, Cook. The officers for the first year were — Parr, W. C. T. (given name not certain); Miss Laura Matthews, W. V. T,; J. M. Batchelder, W. S.; L. T. Patchin, W. T.; L, Harris, W. I. G.; and W. W. James, \V. O. G. Of the first members of this lodge, Leonard Parr, of Ford P. O., was afterwards G. W. C. T, of the Grand Temple of Ohio, Wm. E, Parr, of the same place, G. W. A. M., and R. P. Lampson, of Welshfield, G. W, O. G. of the same temple.

500 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

The Associate Lodge continued in operation about three years. All degree members of the various Templar lodges in the county were members of the Associate Lodge when they had signed its constitution, It had 205 members, The by-laws provided for meetings at such times and places as should be determined upon by the lodge, and, at least, four meetings should be held each year. Meetings were held at Button, Troy, Newbury Centre, South Newbury, Huntsburg and Middlefield.

Honor Circle Lodge, I, O, G, T., No. 523 was organized Feb. 26, 1868. The following are the charter members, with the position occupied by some of them during the first term of the lodge : S. C, Hotchkiss, IV. C. T.; Lena Townsley, W. V. T.; Oliver Green, W. C.; John S, Cleveland, W. S.; Carrie Yeend, W. A. S.; Frank C, Scott, W. F. S.; Earl Talcott, W. T.; Corwin M. Cook, W. M.; Minnie Dayton, W. D, M.; Ella Dayton, W. I. G.; Corwin Fowler, W. O. G.; Marcia Carlton, W. R. H. S.; Eunice Beard, W. L. H. S,; Edward Hope, P. W, C. T.; F. Town, Isaac Town, Mrs. E. Talcott, Mrs. L. Town, W. Fowler, Mrs. Fowler, L. Norton, Miss N. Norton, C. Peckham, O, Newcomb, Mrs. Newcomb, Ed. Truman, Miss E. Chillis, J. Chillis. The lodge was in operation over four years and had above 60 members.

Boanergian Temple and Honor Circle, in adoition to business exercises, were accustomed, from time to time, to have original papers, discussions, essays, declamations, &c., which tended to the social and intellectual benefit of the members.

Burton Division, No, 195, of the Sons and Daughters of Temperance, was organized on the evening of February 29, 1875, by A. M. Collins. The charter members, with the positions occupied by a portion of them, for the first term, were: J. B. Coffrn, W. P,; Hattie Newell, V. W, P,; E, A. Hope, R. S.; Kate Griffin, A. R, S.; Frank Rice, F. S.; C, M. Gates, treasurer; J, B. Bartholomew, chaplain ; F. W. Hinkston, conductor; Lucy M, Dayton, A. C,; Alice Bourn,

I. S,; F. J. Hincston, O. S,; W. C. Blair, P, W. P.; Edward Truman, oeputy; Leon Dayton, O, W. Morton, Q. W, Dayton, Mrs. Katherine Griffin, Mrs, J. Gorton, and J, H. Scott. It had about 28 members. Authorities differ as to' how long this lodge continued in operation; but it is certain, owing to adverse reasons, it was unable to acquire that strength of numbers, and power of c0ntinuance, which the secret lodges that preceded it had possessed. This closes the list of secret temperance societies, unless it be the Vigilance committee of the Murphy society,

In 1875, Mrs. Harriet E. Ford was vice-president, for Burton township, of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, 0f Geauga county.

The writer recollects a pledge (name of society not known by him), which was circulated to some extent, among the youth and children, a number of years, perhaps 20 years since; and there may have been other pledges circulated, but think the above list embraces all the principal societies, down to the time of the Murphy movement. From the copies of the earlier and later pledges given in this sketch, persons may notice the course of temperance sentiment shown therein, from the commencement of the temperance reform.

In the early spring of 1877, the Murphy excitement began. The first meeting was held in the Methodist church, and it was crowded full. The pledge was in these words: "With malice toward none, and charity for all, I, the undersigned, do pledge my word and honor; God helping me, to abstain from all intoxicating liquors, as a beverage, and that I will, by all honorable means, encourage others to abstain." It was read by the speakers, and J. M. Dunlap, a reformed man, from Pittsburgh, called for signers. A movement, in the back part of the audience was noticed, and as the man came down the aisle, into the light of the front, it was known that George W. Jaques was the first to declare

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 501

for temperance, and take a Murphy card, and then came Dr, A, McGraw, The work went on, until over 500 persons had enlisted in the cause.

At this writing, nearly three years later, it would be difficult to say how many reformed men have stood firm. Mr. Jaques, the first signer, has fought the destroyer, and met it in all its subtle ways of danger, holding the mastery, He is still president of, and has been a resolute worker for the society, which organized in the Congregational church, April 15th, as follows:

President - G. W. Jaques,

C. F. Burleigh, - Vice-President.

W. P. Russell,  - Vice-President

Edward Truman, - Secretaries,

Miss Ella Dayton, - Secretaries

Frank Hinkston, - Treasurer

D. L. Johnson, Executive Committee

Henry Avery, “

Harlow D. Charter, “

E. C. Rice, - Executive Committee.

R. R. Cramton, - “

H, Crittenden, - “

M. G. Manly, - “

W. J. Ford, - Delegate to the National Convention at Pittsburgh, Pa., April 18, 1877.

On the 3d of March, 1878, the society reorganized under an adopted constitution:

G. W, Jaques, - President.

Henry Rice, - Vice-President,

George H. Ford, - Secretary,

H. C. Tuttle, - Treasurer.

W. J. Ford, Executive-Committee

Dr. Aaron McGraw, - Executive-Committee.

H. S. Tolles, - Executive - Committee

The society is still in working order, and on guard.

In 1879, the saloon in town was closed, and beer kegs and a billiard table were burned in the street; Milo White, the owner, assisting at the fire. A sad comment, whiskey is still sold and drank in town.

WEDDINGS.

A house of logs, with stone jams at the chimney, two rooms and an airy place "up the ladder," a trundle bed and ten children, with heads of tow, all dressed "home-made" flax, and shying back behind the neighbor women who crowd in, while the men gather round the door, to see that "oldest gal" married, comes before one, in thinking of the first days. Possibly she has a calico, or it may be, some forehanded relation east has sent on a silk, for that wedding dress, Cake, it was flour, sweetened with maple "lasses," and ornamented with wintergreen berries. Venison and wild turkey broiled on the coals, with pork, by the quick-handed mother, was savory, nor was it too late for bear's meat. These, and little more, was at the hands of those who would prepare the "corn and the wine" for a wedding, in this land of "milk and honey," seventy odd years ago. Possibly a minister might "tie the knot," but more likely the squire, said they were married. Then there was rejoicing in a jolly good way, in the cabins for miles around, and the old ladies hoped it true, "she might have gone farther and fared worse."

502 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

EARLY MARRIAGES,

1806,-April l0th, Robert Wallace and Rebecca Menough, of Burton, by Benj. Johnson, J. P.

April 24th, Simeon Rose and Limery Umberfield, of Burton, by Benj. Johnson, J, P

July 30th, Stephen Bond and Polly Thompson, of Burton, by Isaac Thompson, J, P.

December 8th, Justin Bradley and Laura Ely, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J. P.

1807.-May 29th, Burnet Heathman and Chroe Walker, of Burton, by Joseph Clark, J. P.

October 12th, Silas Bush and Keziah Parks, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J. P.

1808,-February 11th, Simeon Morse and Betsey Burton, of Burton, by Ereazer Hielcox, J. P. March 6th, Daniel Dayton and Fanny Parks, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J. P.

August 14th. Vane Stone and Alice Williams, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J. P.

September 11th, Frederick Kirtland and Sophia Parkman, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J, P. September 25th, Uri Hickox and Lydia Ford, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J, P.

September 11th, David Curtis, of Trumbull county, and Nancy Heathman, of Burton, by Joseph Clark, J. P,

October 20th, Eleazer Hickox and Stella Umberfield, of Burton, by Joseph Clark, J. P.

October 20th, Lemuet Punderson and Sybil Hickox, of Burton, by Joseph Clark, J, P.

1809,-March 5th, Theodore Roys and Clarissa Parks, of Burton, by Eleazer Hickox, J. P.

December 31st, Adolphus Carlton and Loalma Cook, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

1810.-October 11th, Atpheus Sheffield and Dorothy Minor, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

1811.-January 13th, Calvin Williams and Betsey Bradley, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

February 17, Asa Wilmot and Abigail "Durand, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

June 13^th, Jeremiah Iles and Betsey Minor, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P>

1812,- January 4, Justin Miner and Hannah Morse, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

February 26th John Fields and Sarly Ensworth, of Burton, by Rev. Thomas Barr.

1813,-January 28th, James Heathman and Nancy Young, of Burton, by Lyman Burton, J, P,

February 17th, Israel Coe, of Portage county, and Asenath Fowler, of Burton, by Rev, John

Seward, of Aurora.

April 11th, Elijah Ford and Esther Johnson, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

June 3d, Theodorus Miller and Lucretia Pomeroy, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

June 5th, Solomon Charter and Olive Parks, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

July 19th, Lyman Benton and Rhoda Fowler, of Burton, by Elijah Risley, J. P.

September 2d, Luther Russell and Polly Morse, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

September 15th, Ebenezer Hays and Paulina Ford, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

1814,-January 15th, Oroon Datas Johnson and Betsey Umberheld, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J.P.

February 20th, Erastus Goodwin and Dothia B. Gilbert, of Burton, by Rev.Giles H, Cowles.

July 28th, Amos Andrews and Hope H. Tanner, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P,

1815,- June 18^th, Jacob W. Burroughs and Harriet Fowler, of Burton, by Lyman Benton, J. P.

October 29th, Aranda Kellogg and Laura Cowles, of Burton, by William Hanford, V. D. M.

1816.-May 14th, Moses Bradley and Celia Parks, by John Ford, J. P,

June l2th, Ariel Wolden, of Mantua, and Almira Carbon, of Burton, by John Ford, J. P.

August 19th, Stephen Ford and Eunice Brooks, of Burton, by John Ford, J. P.

September 14th, Eliphalet Gay and Colista Burnett, of Burton, by John Ford, J. P.

November 25th, Jacob Pease and Sally Seymour, of Burton, by John Ford, J. P.

December 4th, Ira Hayes and Julia Durand of Burton, by Rev. Luther Humphrey.

December 5th, Luther Hemenway and Mary Burroughs, of Burton, by Rev, Luther Humphrey,

1817,-January 28th, Nicholas Chinmark and Elizabeth Moss, of Burton, by Frederick Kirtland, J. P,

February 19th, Myron N. Hutchinson and Amelia Tomlinson, of Burton, by Rev. Luther Humphrey.

March 6th, Horace Peck and Mary Johnson, of Burton, by Rev. Luther Humphrey.

April 7th, John Johnson and Sally Young, of Burton, by John Ford, J, P.

May 4th, Edward Collins and Thalia Beard, of Burton, by Rev, Luther Humphsey,

June 30th, Jacob Burton and Sally Haves, of Burton, by John Ford, J. P.

December 23d, John P. Smith and Maria Ferris, of Burton, by John Ford, J, P,

1819,-February 24th, William A. Messenger, of Portage county, and Desire Fowler, of Burton, by Rev. Luther Humphrey.

March 7th, Osoon Datas Johnson and Edna Fidelia Bartholomew, by James Brown, J, P.

April 4th, Samuel Newell and Jane Kincaid, by John Ford, J, P,

April 15th, John B, Brown and Maca Hyde, by John Ford,, J. P.

May 4th, Joseph Hayes and Abigail Miner, by John Ford, J. P.

May 28th, Daniel Dayton, of Buston, and Chloe S. Humphrey, of Burlington, by J. Ford, J.P. June 30th, Burt Jewett and Olive Hayes, by Rev, Charles Waddell,

August 19th, Danier Burton and Eliza Russell, by John Ford, J, P,

August 20th, Ralph Cowles and Delia Benton, by Rev. Luther Humphrey,

September 4th, Dennis Cranston and Chroe Burke, of Burton, by John Ford, J, P.

November 7, Fabian Beard and Alice Tomlinson, by Rev, Luther Humphrey,

1820,-April 1st, Ichabod Brooks and Electa Bosworth, by John Ford, J. P.

April 1st, John A, Ford and Eliza A. Barnes, by John Ford, J. P.

April 16th, Robert Edson and Polls, Umberfield, by John Ford, J, P,

September 6th, Orrin Dayton and Sally Truman, of Burton, by Jonathan Brooks, J. P.

September 25th, David Taylor and Lucy Russel, by Rev, Luther Humphrey.

September 28th, Levi Patchin, of Newbury, and Emeline Fowler, of Burton, by Jonathan Brooks, J. P.

December 7th, Eli Beals, of Burton, and Lucy Gager, of Claridon, by Eleazer Paine, J. P.

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 503

POPULATION.

July 4, 1800, the inhabitants of Burton, in number assembled, as mentioned by Judge Kirtland,

amounted to 42, At the election in 1802, 11 families were claimed as settled for Burton proper. Marimon Cook has left a note saying: "Number of inhabitants in the township of Burton, January 20, 1809-237. Census Returns.

1820 - 506

1830 - 646

1840, - 1,022

1850, - Colored, 5, White, 1,063

1860, - 1,044

1870, - Foreign, 21, Native, 983

The auditor's record shows male population, over 25 years:

1875, - 302

1879 - 358

Of this population it may be said, as a community, they have shared their proportion of accidents and events of life, and the sickness and ills common to the country. Since 1818, G, Cramton gives it, that there have been 19 deaths by accident; 26 soldiers from the Union army from Burton were lost, and have died since 1865. Two murders have been committed, two suicides, and One death occurred from hydrophobia.

STATISTICS OF BURTON TOWNSHIP-FROM TAX LIST OF 1879

PRODUCT OF 1878-FROM ASSESSORS' RETURNS OF 1879.

LANDS.

Acres.

Cultivated - 4,048

Pasture - 6,606

Meadow - 2,196 1/2.

Woodland - 2,986

Waste   - 640

Totar Acres = 16,476 1/2 

ORCHARDS-ACRES, 288. 

                Bushels, Price. Estimated

Apples 24,153 .30 $7,245.90

Peaches 393 $1.00 393.00

Pears 44 1.00 44.00

504 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

MAPLE,

Sugar 30,113 lbs. 8c. $2,408.96

Syrup 569 gals. $1,00 569

BEES,

Hives 59 $5.00 $295 00

Honey 670 lbs. .20 134 00

PRODUCE

William Howard, county auditor, most courteously sent in the figures, taken from the official lists, from which the foregoing statements have been made up, and the estimated values extended, furnishing material for an interesting comparison. The first owners, arriving here in 1798, found a solid wilderness covering 5,274 acres of land in the township, and valued, in the purchase cost, at a little fraction over 62 cents per acre, and amounting to some $9,469.88. Eighty years of industry, in clearing, cultivation and improvements, accomplished, in the primitive part of the period, through much suffering and toil, under the blessings of Providence and a free government, has so changed these lands that their combined value and product, in

1878, foots up the enormous sum of $977,465.44,

almost a million dollars; more than one hundred times greater than the investment of the founders. The estimated value of the annual yield, from the various agricultural sources of this area of land, exclusive of the value of

Domestic animals, hogs or dogs, is $115,487.44,

or nearly 12 per cent. of the grand total before given, This showing, not accurate or complete, conveys some idea of the return for labor and husbandry, in so good an agricultural township as Burton.

CEMETERIES,

The first location mentioned, was just east of the square, south of the road, on the hill, and next east of where Esquire Hickox planted the grove of mulberry trees. It is claimed that Hugh Sharon was the first person buried in

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 505

town, and this was the place. When the burial ground was located for the town, it seems to have fallen.

By the river—at the foot of the hill, and the bodies from this first spot, were transferred there. Luther Russel, the elder, helped in the removal, and related that one coffin lid was loose, and they lifteo the cover. The face was natural as life, though the body had been buried many years. In five minutes, the vital air so needful in life, changed this dust of mortality, and it shrank and fell away to a nameless ash of earth, On this sand knoll, by the river, sleep many of the original settlers of Burton.

The Williams and Bradley—burial ground, west of the road north from the square, in lot 15, lies cheerly nigh to the wood tree shade on the bank of the brook.

Northwest,—and just across from the "Old Wooster" place on lot 2, and almost within sight of the first camping spot in 1798, is another yard, occupied by those who had lived in that quarter of the town.

South—on the Troy road, on lot 96, just east of the first home of Richard Slitor, is his family ground, and there some of the people of that locality are buried.

East of the Village—in a grove of maple trees, Dr. Goodwin allowed a new cemetery to be opened, at a later day. The maple trees have fallen; only one remains. The white marble stone, the shaft and column, granite, red and grey, have risen, as the trees departed from this city of the dead, and stand thick, within a few short years, marking all there is of this life, and its end in death. Here come, most often 'now, the mourners with their dead.

EARLY WOMEN.*

In chronicling early events, the historian could not forget the part taken by women in all that relates to the welfare and best interests of the early settlement, and their subsequent development. Much has been written of men and their deeds, and woman is also recognized and should receive due notice of her share in the work. At a late hour, and while he was in the midst of pressing public duties, the pen of a ready writer has most kindly given aid, and furnished this sh0rt chapter.

When men determined to move to Ohio, they took with them wives; mostly these were young girls, just assuming the marriage relation. They left homes of culture and refinement, breaking familiy ties, and abandoning churches, schools, and all the comforts and conveniences of an older civilization, for this, then new and untried far west. With an abiding trust in God, and the future, and relying on the honest, loyal hearts and strong arms of their chosen partners, and bidding adieu to all the scenes of childhood and youth, they resolutely set their faces westward. From then, until their arrival at the point of destination, and all along during the years of settling, and clearing up the country, they were willing and efficient helpmates of their husbands, in all that tended to the development and improvement of the new settlement. In all that relates to the best interests of a community they were foremost. Earnest in countenancing and providing for early education. The first to call for religious privileges, and first to enter church organizations. Truly, they were "mothers in Israel," literally, as well as figurately. To them were many children born, and by their own hands were they cared for, trained and disciplined. There are yet many living who remember with reverence these early corners, and it is to he hoped that for many years characters will be moulded, and influences exerted for good, as the result of their early training. These women, many of them, came from homes of ease and refinement, if not luxury, to take their places, and do such work as

* By Peter Hitchcock.

506 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

many would regard drudgery. To them it was not such. It was no hardship to care for their families; to feed and clothe them. Nor was it more so, to take care of laborers upon their farms. They spun and wove, wool and flax, making clothing for themselves and families. They cheerfully endured toil and hardship for loved ones.

These were almost entirely New England women, coming from New Haven, Hartford, Cheshire, Ct., Worcester and Springfield, Mass., and from Albany and Troy, N. Y.. Leaving their early homes and plunging deeper and deeper in wilderness wilds, for long weeks they plodded their weary way, sometimes drawn by oxen, sometimes by horses, sometimes by both combined, sometimes on h0rseback and sometimes with itresome foot marches, until, at the end of fr0m four to six weeks, they reached Burton hill. The first to come was Lydia Umberfield and Mrs. Arnariah Beard. This was in 1798, when it was an entire wilderness. What disappointment and discouragement must have saddened their hearts during the waking hours of that first night, upon the site of their future homes. As thought went back to the homes they left behind them, looked 0n the present, and anxiously questioned the future, what wonder if some unbidden tears should have moistened their hard pillows, But returning light drove all this away, and with fresh courage was taken up their new lifework. With the former of these women came Stella, who a few years subsequently married Eleazer Hickox, and soon came Sybil Punderson, his sister, a woman of strong parts, great energy and force of character. Stella, as Mrs. Hickox, is well remembered for some of her peculiarities. She was very particular about every thing with which she had to do being kept cleanly. The old place being a short distance from the academy, was our place of resort for drinking water, but she would never allow us to empty the bucket, for fear our hands would soil it. When a bit of a boy the writer recollects that he thought it very funny that milk, for her own use, must be milked directly into a bottle with a small neck, for fear of dirt.

There was Parnal Bradley, we boys used to call her "Aunt Thad," how memory brings fresh to mind, the habitual kindness of that good old woman. Her daughter, Betsey Williams, wife of Calvin, and "Aunt Patty," wife of Selah Bradley, who lived many years at the forks of the road towards Claridon. Subsequently she married a Sweat, "Twistem," as he was familiarly called. Mrs. John Cook, "Aunt Maroe " and "Aunt Lorenda," Mrs, Hiram Cook, are also recollected. The former is the woman who came to Burton in 1806, in company with Nabby Hitchcock. She was also the mother of Harriet, the wife of Ex-Governor Seabury Ford, who, although not one of the early emigrants, was an early comer, and at an advanced age still lives, one of the most respected and best loved women of the township. ;I Those mentioned, except the first, were off north of the public square, and in addition, was "Aunt Easter" elsewhere noticed, and "Aunt Rachel," wife of Jonathan Brooks. Her youngest son, Jonathan, was so singularly small at birth, that it is said he could be seated in a tea saucer, and his head be covered by a tea cup, Across the way from "Aunt Easter" was Patty Hotchkiss, wife of good old Deacon Hotchkiss. Then northeast was "Aunt Polly" Russell, one of the sincere and early workers in the Methodist church, Of an ardent temperament, she entered with zeal upon religious exercises, and her devotions were not disturbed by the noise and confusion occasioned by a number, all together engaging with loudest tones in services of prayer or exhortation. Directly east was "Aunt Martha," wife of Eli Fowler. She, like some others mentioned, was not married before coming from the east, but was sought for by Mr, Fowler, and brought from Mesopot- an*. . Sperry, before marriage. She was a most excellent woman, and is most Kindly 'remembered by all the circle of her particular acquaintance. On

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 507

another road, a little south, was Mrs. Benjamin Johnson. Out west was Mrs. Nathan Parks, and north of this, Mrs. Josephus Hayes. She was a Miller, from Shalersville, and the mother of Doctor Hayes, of Chicago, Illinois.

"Aunt Suky," wife of Ephraim Cook, must not be forgotten. She lived down in the hollow, near Edson's pond. A little peculiar she was. Us children liked to visit her. She was so kind, Sugar was, in her estimation, none too sweet for us, but as we got older we learned that Ephraim had to step, when she gave the word. Near by, just above the mill, was Polly Edson. Then right across the way from where Governor Ford erected his residence was "Aunt Dotia," Mes. Goodwin, wife of the old doctor—a woman, perhaps, a little peculiar (at least we boys thought so), but a most excellent woman, who looked well to the ways of her household, and reaped a reward in the character of her children. Below the public square was Mrs, Nettleton, wife of Merrit, another sister of Hickox; and near by, Mrs, David Hill, a sister of Jonathan Brooks. Mrs. Patchin, wife of Captain Eleazer Patchin, first came to Burton, but subsequently settled in Newbury, She used to ride five miles to church on horseback, with her youngest son, John, behind her, He is now a Congregational minister of some mark, who preached in Chardon a number of years. On the road across towards Gihnore's mills was Mrs, Hayes, wife of Eli, and in the ravine, below the Parson Humphrey place, Mrs, Fleming, mother of Chloe, now Mrs. Root, of Montville, To take her place after death, came "Aunt Jane," who, before marriage, was a Hutchins,

These women are mentioned as among those prominently remembered by the writer, They are women of different type than those of the present day. Not so different, perhaps, from what the women of the present day, would be found, if the times demanded and experience developed the same traits as then. They were brave, noble-hearted women, fearless of toil, cheerfully bearing hardships, meeting and overcoming disappointment, comforting their companions, guiding, training and caring for their families. They were affectionate, true, womonly women-largely christian women. This was the refining, purifying influence which, more than any other, inpressed the general New England character, upon the early settlements of this and adjoining townships. Descendants of these women are now living to the third and fourth generation, ano yet, the distinguishing marks of this character, are to-day more clearly seen in Geauga county, than in any other locality in the State.

When the women first came to Ohio, it was by a long and weary way, through mud and over log-ways, across deep and rapid streams, guided by blazed trees, and through almost trackless wilds. When they reached Burton, and settled upon their chosen lands, they were separated miles apart, but they were near acquaintances and intimates friends, Not only was this true within, but outside of the township. There was much of trial and privati0n, but it was not all such. They had also their times of recreation and pleasure. For these, the logging bees, husking frolics, quiltings, cabin warmings, and occasional dances, furnished ample opportunities. Where ever the women went, the ox-sled was the family carriage. With chained stakes, a board, or wide bark, upon the bottom, with plenty of straw, and the thing was ready for an indiscriminate loading. For church, upon a visit, or to the bedside of the sick, the inevitable sled was in requisition. In the evenings it was no uncommon thing that the oxen were yoked, the sled brought out, and a party made up for Captain Spencers', or Judge Cowles', of Claridon, Captain Patchin's, in Newbury, or some other point equally distant. This 0x-sled riding was not wanting in variety and pleasure, on a bright moonlight night, as a large company crowded upon a common seat, the sled bottom, and enjoyed themselves in song and cheery conversation, with occasional laughter ringing loudly upon the frosty air, and keeping time to the

508 - HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO.

creaking sled and crunching snow. The oxen were guided by the "Whoa-haw, gee-up, there," and the long ox goad of a skillful driver, winding out and in among the trees. The sled sliding around, and over the roots of trees and stumps, and occasionally one runner dipping in a deep rut, with such force as to sling some careless rider from his, or her, seat, into the snow by the wayside, added much to the party's merriment. The writer well recollects when the ox sled was a very common mode of conveyance to church on the Sabbath.

Of the first generation succeeding the earlier women, in addition to "Aunt Harriet," before mentioned, of those who connect the present with the past, is recollected Mrs, Eliza A., wife of John Anson Ford, and "Aunt Eunice," wife of Stephen Ford, affectionately remembered by her family and friends; Mrs. Lola R, Boughton, younger sister of "Aunt Harriet;" Abigail Sarah, widow of Robert Hotchkiss, a woman of strong sense and marked character, and an earnest worker in church and Sabbath school; "Aunt Julia," wife of Joseph Hyde. She was one of the most efficient workers in the ivfethodist church, was a Russell, and died but a little way from her father's place of residence when living. Miss Maria Converse came at an early day, and taught, for quite a number of years, one of the departments in the academy. Among her scholars were many of the young girls of Burton and the surrounding country, and by her, their characters for coming life were largely moulded. She subsequently married, and removed towards the south part of the State. One other must be noticed, Like "Aura Harriet," an early corner. Her life is a romance. A romance of fact, in which is proven the saying, that truth is stranger than fiction.

Arvilla Cook—was the eldest daughter of Hiram and Lorenda Cook. A lovely girl, well educated and carefully trained, with a character moulded and shaped under the immediate care and watch of her mother, she imbibed much that characterized that strong, clear-headed, practical Christian woman. When quite young, Arvilla became acquainted with Joel T. Case, who was studying at the academy, in preparation for college, That acquaintance ripened into intimacy. He was assiduous in his attention, and the result was an engagement of marriage, with all the appearances of the warmest and most endearing affection upon both sides. Case was from 0ne of the best families of Ashtabula county. At the time he was seeking an education with a view to entering the ministry. After leaving the academy he passed through a course of study at Yale college, graduating at that institution. He then went to Cincinnati to study theology. Up to this time he kept up regular correspondence with his affianced, occasionally visiting her. While at this place, at first, his letters gsew less frequent, and finally he ceased writing altogether, It subsequently came to be known that he had become enamored with and married a niece of Bishop Mcllvaine, of Cincinnati. With her he went to Texas, whence, after their living together for a time, she left in company with another man, with him went abroad, and was never more heard of. Case felt this very much, and the noted Santa Fe expedition leaving Texas about this time, he was just reckless enough to enlist and start with it upon that dangerous trip, resulting so disastrously.

This was in the early summer of 1841, and for many months he was subjected to the dangers and privations 0f the long and tedious journey, and the cruelties of captivity under Santa Anna and his minions. One, or more, times he, with some of his companions, was drawn up in line to be shot, when, by some unexpected interference, their execution was suspended, and they were forced to suffer still longer the horrors of captivity, After final liberation, he came back to Texas, and from thence to Mobile, Alabama. Subsequently he returned to Texas, settling at Victoria and engaging in preaching.

What of Arvilla, all this time? Forsaken by her lover, she m0urned as one

HISTORY OF GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO - 509

without hope, and, for a time, would not be comforted. But after the first disappointment, her good sense taught her a better way. Remaining single for many years, she yielded to an offer of marriage, and wedded Raymond Gaylord. They lived together a number of years, and by him she had two sons. When they had grown to be quite lads, Mr. Gaylord had consumption, and died.

Now comes the strange part of the history. Carefully preparing the way, Case comes back and renews his offers of marriage. They are accepted, and the union takes place. They seemed fitted to one another, and the fires of the new love, or old love renewed, burned as brightly as ever. After a little, they returned to Texas, taking the sons with them, and continued happily living together for many years. All are now dead except a daughter, born after this last marriage, who is married and lives at Ft, Wayne, Indiana.