HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 175 quarter of Section 13. On the first day of June, 1829, Nathan Frakes entered the west half of the southeast quarter of Section 12, afterwards the Samuel Spitler farm. In December, 1828, Major Bright entered the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 36, and a year later, George C. Collins, of Hamilton County, entered the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 36. These entries were followed in 1832 by others, made by Henry Barnel, George Ensminger, Elias Bryan, William Wilkes, Christian Ensperger, and others. In 1826 or 1827 the first settlement was made by Nathan Frakes and one Miller, west of Van Buren, on the Sam. Spitler farm, and by Miller on the farm now owned by J. Kempher. In 1827 came John Trout, Elias S. Bryan and John Burman came, and they were followed by Christian Barnel, who came from Perry county, and located on the Spitler farm, Frakes having purchased and removed to what is now the Infirmary farm. John Barnel, son of Christian, came in the following year, and remained here during his entire life. He, too, moved to the Spitler farm, and his father, with his family, moved to Findlay. Then came Charles Baker, of Fairfield, the Ensmingers of Wayne, Hugh and John Gilchrist, Jos. Howard and others. All of these families settled around or near the site of the present town of Van Buren. In 1833 the first election was held in the township, at which time both of the townships of Cass and Portage voted. But eleven votes were cast. The first election held in the present township, was in 185o, in accordance with the order before recited. The first schoolhouse was built in 1836, on the farm later owned by I. W. Whetstone. It was of the round log, clapboard roof, huge chimney variety. There are now six school houses in the township, all of which have passed through the transition stage from log and frame to the more substantial brick structure. The first church was built at Van Buren by the Presbyterians, Rev. George Van Emon, pastor. Among the first members were Samuel Huntington, John Leader, some of the Moreheads of Portage Township, and the Campbells, of Wood County. This organization still exists. There are now three church buildings in the township, one Baptist, one Presbyterian, and one United Brethren, all located in the town of Van Buren. The Baptist Church was organized in 1855, and Henry Roder and wife, Samuel Kagy and E. Smith were some of the first members. Previous to the building of the church, services were held at the house of Henry Rader, and as a branch of the Findlay Church. The first marriages were those of a Mr. Beeson and a Miss Trout ; and Francis Rumor and Miss Ensminger. The first death was that of a child of John Trout. John Burman built a mill on the creek east of Van Buren, at an early day, which was the first built in the township. But as it was propelled by water, and during a great portion of the year the water was so low in the creek, as not to furnish power, the mill was not of much benefit to the early settlers, who had to patronize the Teatsworth horse-mill at Findlay, or go to Perrysburg, or to Sandusky City for flour or meal. Every community has its tragedies and a most distressing event of this kind occurred at a very early day, in the settlement of this township. John Gilchrist and his little son, a boy of twelve years of age, and his brother, Hugh 176 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY Gilchrist, were out at night hunting raccoons. When about a mile and a half northwest of Van Buren, on the McMurry farm, a 'coon was treed, and it became necessary to cut the tree down in order to get it. Before it fell, John took his son in the direction the tree was to fall, and to a distance that he thought would be out of reach of the falling tree. When it fell, however, it struck another, which in falling killed the boy outright, and broke the thigh of the father. Hugh was unable to move them without help, which he was some time in procuring. He then took his brother to his home, where he died two days after, leaving a wife and five small children. They were very poor, but were assisted by the good neighbors. The "Wild Cat Thicket," which extended through this township, was in early days so densely covered with an undergrowth, as to be hardly passable, and although game was plenty elsewhere, it could not get through this thicket. The timber or brush was then quite small. Only a few large trees were standing. Mr. Barnd killed forty-five deer the second year that he was in the township, besides large numbers of smaller game, yet he did not consider himself a hunter, as he had his farm to attend to. The first frame building erected in the township, was the Presbyterian Church, which was built by John Kelley. The first brick building was that of John Trout, on the south of the town of Van Buren. Old Johnny Appleseeds was through this part of the country, and planted a number of apple trees in this township. The following extract is from a paper read by Mr. George W. Trout, at a meeting of the Pioneer Association of Hancock County, held thirty years ago : "On November 12, 1828, my father, John Trout, with his family, left Somerset, Perry County, Ohio, for the regions of Hancock. He passed through Thornville, Newark, Johnstown, Sunberry, Delaware and Marion, thence into the Wyandotte Reserve, where we remained one night, at the house of a widow Walker, a half-breed Indian, formerly the wife of an Indian. Here we had sight of the first Indians we ever beheld. 'We took dinner and fed our teams the next day, at a tavern in Upper Sandusky, kept by one Armstrong. Mrs. Armstrong was an Indian. We crossed the Tymochtee Creek near the dwelling of John James. From this place we sent back our four-horse team, and father and my brother Ephraim proceeded to Van Buren, or rather to the settlement near there, as at that time and for many years thereafter, there was no town, to procure teams to take us the balance of the journey. After procuring the necessary teams, on their return, taking the Indian trail, they cut their way back, by way of the Big Springs. We were eleven days, anxiously awaiting their return. We again took up our line of march, and on the following night, stopped with Peter George, in what was then known as the "Swamp Settlement." On leaving Mr. George's, we were told to strike the river as far up as possible on account of high water. This we did, and came to the river at a point called Ashery Ford, but even here the water was so high, that in crossing it, it ran into the wagon box. That night we camped in the woods, having failed to reach any settlement. "The next day, by dint of hard traveling, by a road we had to make as we went, we, at sunset, arrived at the house of a Mr. Powell, about three miles above Findlay. On the next day, about noon, we reached the old 'Fort,' passing on the way, a schoolhouse, which was HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 177 a very insignificant log cabin. There were then but sixteen buildings in Findlay, and these seemed to be built in mud and water. "Though the town was then in its infancy, its people showed, by the generous assistance afforded us in crossing the river, they at least possessed noble hearts. We crossed the river in a 'Pirogue,' and passed the night in a shanty near where Carlin's mill now stands—now the location of the Toledo Bowling Green and Southern Electric Railroad office. We still had seven miles to go. Mother, brother John and I started on foot, and so continued our journey as long as the logs in the way furnished a passage over the water. But presently we reached the end of this natural bridge. Here, luckily for us, a Mr. Foster came to our relief. He took mother on the horse he had brought with him. All that was left for John and I was to wade, and we did wade until we reached Mr. Foster's house. We had by this time become quite cold, for it had snowed the night before. Having been refreshed by the kindness of Mr. Foster and his family, we continued our journey, urging our cattle through the mud and over the logs, and at last, about the middle of the afternoon, tired out, we arrived at the house of Mr. Miller, on the farm on which Samuel Spitler now resides (now owned by Stephen D. Spitler). In the evening the balance of our party arrived with the horses, but no wagons. The wagons had got stuck in the mud about three miles back, and the horses were unable to extricate them. It required all the next day to secure the wagons and bring them in, for it was sunset on December 15th, when they arrived at the cabin on the hill. These cabins were of the rudest build, and plainest surroundings. On the morning after the first night in our cabin, our first inquiry was, who are our neighbors, and how far are we from any place? We were on the eastern frontier of our immediate neighborhood, Miller, Bryan and Frakes living about one mile to the west of us. Our nearest neighbor on the east was a Mr. Wade, who lived about eighteen miles distant. On the south, Mr. Foster lived at a distance of about six miles. On the west the nearest settlement was at Fort Defiance, about forty-eight miles away. Twelve miles to the north lived Mr. Haskins. "Soon after our arrival, the Mr. Miller of whom I have spoken, died, and Mr. Frakes moved to his new home on the river, now the Infirmary farm, which left but two men in the settlement." AMANDA TOWNSHIP. Amanda Township borders on the east line of the county, south of the center line, and contains 17,38o acres. It is bounded on the north by Marion and Big Lick Townships, on the east by Wyandotte County, on the south by Wyandotte County and Delaware Township, and on the west by Jackson Township. This township was organized in 1828, the first year of our county's existence. In the year 1830, at the time of the organization of Marion and Liberty Townships, the territory included in Amanda and Findlay Townships was so divided as to form the four townships Amanda, Marion, Findlay and Liberty. In December, 1831, it was ordered by the Commissioners that "The township of Amanda shall hereafter consist of the original Township 1 south, in Range 12, and Sections 34 and 35, in the original surveyed Township north, in the 12th Range. This township at the present time, and ever since the formation 178 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY of Wyandot County (Sections 34 and 35 having been restored to Township i north (Big Lick) by act of the County Commissioners), comprises Sections 1, 12, 13, 24, 25 and 36 in Township 1 south, Range i i east, and Sections 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 33 in Township i south, Range 12 east. The timber was principally walnut, ash, oak, elm, hickory, beech, sugar. There were a few places in the township that were but sparsely wooded; notably so a tract in the northeast part known as the fallen timber region, and a portion of the southeast known as the swamp. In the eastern part of the township the soil is clay, mixed with sand and gravel and when once properly cultivated is very productive. In the south part is what the people here call the "swamp," a strip of land not many rods wide, but extending almost across the township, from east to west, the soil of which is a deep rich vegetable loam, mixed with sand. This tract at the early settlement of this section, was thought to be almost, if not wholly worthless. But as agricultural science developed the means by which it might be brought into use, it was found not only possible to reclaim it, but that when so reclaimed it was unusually productive. The river bottoms of a sandy, gravelly nature, plentifully mixed with the rich deposits of vegetable matter, made by the overflows of the water, of course are easily tilled, and yield almost abundantly. In the northern part, as we have elsewhere observed, is a tract of about 800 acres known as the "Fallen Timber," the soil of which is a muck, mixed with portions of clay and sand. This tract was originally very wet, and it is owing to this fact, perhaps, that so much of the timber especially the larger, has fallen. The Blanchard River enters this township near the southwest corner of Section twenty-five, runs east to about the center of the section, and then almost directly north through Sections 24, 13, 12, and into Section 1, when it takes a north-westerly direction, leaving the township near the northwest corner. This river furnishes an abundance of water, as well as drainage for the most part of the township and is of immense value. Buck Run, a small and unimportant stream, is the 0nly tributary of the Blanchard, and is important only as a s0urce 0f drainage. The Big Spring on the land of David Smith in the northeast of the township is most valuable 0n account of the great volume of water discharged as well as the excellent quality of the same. This is undoubtedly the largest spring in the county. Such is the am0unt of water discharged that an abundance is furnished for the watering of stock in all this part of the township. Thomas Thomps0n made the first entry of land in this township, on the 25th day of February, 1822, being the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 3, and 0n the 27th day of the same month, the west half of the n0rtheast quarter of the same section was entered by Henry McWhorter. In October, 1823, John Brundidge entered the northwest quarter of Section 36 and John Smith entered the west half of the southwest quarter of the same section in December of the same year. In the m0nth of March, 1825, Isaac Giffort, of the State of New York, made entry of the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 12. In HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 181 1826, Ira Baker and John Shoemaker made entries. These were f0ll0wed in 1827 by John Beard, Peter Ge0rge, Abraham Cole and others, and in 1828 by Jesse Gilbert, John J. Hendricks, Andrew Beck and others. In 1824 Thomas Thompson made the first settlement made in this township, near the Big Springs, about 0ne mile from the site of the present town of VanLue,—the water of this spring is now used to supply the city of Findlay with water—and in 1825, John Huff and William Hackney came. Soon after came James Beard, John Shoemaker, Henry George and Thomas Cole, followed by Peter George, James Gibson, John Hewitt and Aquilla Gilbert. Judge Abraham Huff was also a pioneer of this township. The first election held in the township was in 1828. Thomas Thompson was a resident of this township for more than fifty years, and was highly esteemed by his neighbors. He was engaged in farming, an occupation which he followed to within a few years 0f his death. On his retirement he moved t0 the village of VanLue, where he spent his last years in quiet, and died, regretted by his many friends. A well known character in the early days was Peter George, who was known as the "Pioneer Land Hunter," he having entertained, and guided through the forests of Hancock County, more land hunters and immigrants than any other man in the county. He served as county commissioner for six years, with integrity and honesty of purpose. William Hackney was one of the first officers of the county, and is mentioned elsewhere. Aquilla Gilbert, one of the first settlers of Jackson, as well as of this township, taught the first school in this township. Mr. Gilbert was prominently connected with the affairs of the county almost from its first organization, and held office in both township and county. He was one of the commissioners for six years, having been elected in 1837. He served as justice of the peace for five consecutive terms in Jackson Township, and three terms in Amanda T0wnship. The first schoolhouse, as stated by Aquilla Gilbert, was built in the Messemore neighborhood, and the first school was taught by Mr. Gilbert. Another opinion, that of J. M. VanHorn, is that the first sch0olhouse was built near the center of the township, and that the first school kept in the township was in a house on the farm of Uriah Egbert, in about the year 1831, and that one George Smith was teacher. It is not very material which of these gentlemen is correct, for all agree that these two schools were almost, of not quite contemporaneous. There are now eight sub-districts in the township, each of which has a comfortable schoolhouse, and nearly all are of brick construction. The first church was built in 1831, in the south part of the township. It was known as the "Swamp Church" and was owned by the Lutheran denomination. Among the first membership, we find the names of Fred Brenner and wife, Adam Alspach and wife, and several members of the Beck family. The first sermon preached in the township was a Rev. Thompson, an Indian Missionary. There are now in this township eight church buildings as follows : one Methodist Episcopal, one Methodist Protestant, two United Brethren (one in Vanlue and 182 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY one at "the swamp" properly known as the Union Church), one Baptist, one German Reformed, one Lutheran and one Disciples. There have been three Post Offices in this township, but two of them were long since discontinued. The first established was the Blanchard Bridge at the house of Aquilla Gilbert, on the Blanchard River. Mr. Gilbert was the first and only postmaster. The office was in existence for many years and was a great accommodation to the citizens. But villages sprung up in the vicinty and travel took another route and the office was discontinued. Shortly after the establishment of "Blanchard Bridge" another office was established near the Richard Hall farm and called "Ashery." Joseph Twining was the first and only Postmaster here. This office was long since discontinued for the reason that the necessity for its existence has passed away. The third office was established at Vanlue of which we will speak in the proper place. Amanda is one of the most populous townships in the county, and it is fast becoming one of the wealthiest. Each year sees the better improvements of the older farms, and the reclaiming of new lands ; the erection of a better class of farm buildings and the introduction of the latest improved farming implements. The early settlers came principally from the eastern counties in the State, and their descendants are an active, energetic and progressive people. BLANCHARD TOWNSHIP. Blanchard Township is on the west border of the county, bounded north by Pleasant Township, east by Liberty, south by Union, and west by the Hardin County line. It derives its name from the river, which passes through it from east to west, dividing it into almost equal parts. The township contains 23,040 acres. The soil in this township varies with the locality. Along the river it is a rich sandy loam, mixed with vegetable deposits, made by the overflow of the river. On the south ridge it is a fertile, sandy soil and between the ridge and the river bottoms the land is flat and rather wet, but covered by a rich deep soil of vegetable loam, mixed in places with sand or clay. On the north side of the river, after getting back from the bottom lands the soil is almost invariably clay, good wheat and grazing lands, whilst for the production of corn the bottom lands are not excelled anywhere. Oak, ash, hickory, sugar, beech, walnut, and poplar, are the principal timbers. Of the latter kind, there were immense amounts, and of the finest quality, but such has been the demand for it, that it has almost entirely disappeared. This township is well watered by the Blanchard River and Ottowa Creek. The river passes through the township and furnishes water the whole year around and also the best of drainage. It is subject to occasional overflows, but does no material damage. Ottowa Creek rises in Section thirty-six, in Union Township, runs in a northerly direction, enters Blanchard Township in Section thirty-six, runs north, thence west, thence in a north-easterly direction, and empties into the Blanchard River in Section fourteen. Its distance in the township is about four miles. It is quite a consider- HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 183 ble stream, and there have been quite a umber of saw-mills along its course, at ifferent times. It furnished the means of rainage for almost the entire south part f the township. The act of the commissioners in organizing this township, was passed in 1863, in the following words : "That original surveyed Township No. 1 north, Range 9 east, shall be known and organized by the name of Blanchard." In March, 1834, the commissioners "Ordered that Township 2 north, Range 9 (Pleasant Township), be attached to Blanchard Township," but a year later this township was detached from Blanchard and organized into a separate township. The first entries of land made in this township were the north half of the northwest quarter of Section 13, by David Stinson, and the northeast quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 13, by John Veal, both entries being made on the twelfth day of August, 1822. On the 19th day of the same month and year, W. A. Johnson entered the southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 15. In September, 1825, John Hunter took up the south half of southwest quarter of Section 15, and James McClish entered the east half of northeast quarter of Section 20. In 1827, Orlando Moffit entered the west part of southeast fractional quarter of Section 27, and John Dukes the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 15, and Henry Epley the east part of the southeast quarter of Section 18. These entries were followed by others, and a settlement of the township followed close on the entries. The year 1826 saw the first settlement in this township, when John Hunter and John Chandler, both of Fairfield County, located on the south side of the river, on the George Shaw, and afterward the Alfred Davis farm. The majority of the settlers in this part of the county were from the interior of the state, with now and then a family from Pennsylvania and New York. These first two families were not long without neighbors, for in 1828, Richard, John and Lewis Dukes, of Franklin County, and Thomas Groves, of Pickaway County, settled on the opposite side of the river, and opened up extensive farms, and erected comfortable buildings. Of these four pioneers all lived to the end of their lives on their farms excepting Richard Dukes, who in his latter years moved to Findlay and spent the balance of his life enjoying the fruits of his early labor. His last years were peaceful and quiet, spent in the enjoyment of the company of his friends, his home and its comforts, and he left a goodly inheritance to his children. Three of his sons—Lewis, Eli and W. P.—are now residing in Findlay as retired farmers. Lewis Dukes, Sr., came to this township in 1826, and when only about nineteen years of age, and hired out as a farm hand. In a few years, by his industry and frugality, he was able, at the low wages then paid, to accumulate enough money to enter a tract of eighty acres of land. This he improved, and was enabled as the country improved, to add many acres of valuable land, to it, until he became one of the wealthiest men in the township. Mr. Dukes was twice married, but was never blessed with children. He united with the Methodist Church in early life, and remained a consistent mem- 184 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY ber until his death, dyer living up to his profession. John Dukes remained in this township until he became well advanced in years, and had witnessed the many changes which had occurred, when he disposed of his property and removed to Wood County, where after a residence of several years, he too was gathered to his fathers. The Dukes brothers were early and consistent members of the Methodist Church and friends to and workers in the Sabbath Schools. The first church building in the county was put up in this immediate neighborhood and they contributed largely not only to its erection, but also to sustaining the ministers sent among them. This old log church was superseded by a frame building erected a little further west, which was used by the same society until about 1879, when it in its turn made room for a more comfortable and pretentious brick building. There are now two Methodist Episcopal, two United Brethren, and one Evangelical Church in the township, all good substantial buildings. Shortly after the settlement made on the north side of the river by the Dukes and others, the Powells, Foglesong, John L. and Richard Carson, Engle, Baldwin, Fishel, Hughes, the Downings, Knepper, and some other families settled in and near the present town of Benton. Solomon Foglesong, and his brother-in-law Knepper, came there perhaps as early as 183o and settled on the banks of the "Tawa," as it is generally called. Foglesong, almost the last survivor of the first residents, Was living on the old homestead in 1881, but the weight of years was heavy upon him and he passed away not long after. Rev. John Powell devoted his life to the ministry of the United Brethren Church and who not only acquired a good farm by his industry and economy, but within a few years found a reputation as the founder of the Powell Association, and the successful manager of two re-unions of the family, as well as the author of a memorial history of the Powell Family. He lived to enjoy the quiet of his farm in the southern part of the township. Jacob Engle, the kind, generous, large-hearted "Dutchman," as he was called, cleared up and occupied a splendid farm adjoining the present site of Benton, where he lived for years amongst his many friends until about 186o, when he was called away to meet his reward. Honest, generous to a fault, he was a good neighbor, and a social, genial companion. He left a wife and a large family of children, who have since all emigrated to the West, the widow and most of the children going to Iowa. David M. Baldwin was one of the earliest settlers of the southern part of the township, having come from Fairfield County, and settled on lands adjoining the town of Benton Ridge. All was a wilderness when he came, and he lived long enough to see one of the finest neighborhoods in the county. Mr. Baldwin was a genial, wholesouled man, ever ready to accommodate to the extent of his ability, and equally ready to resent an insult. For years he kept a tavern, where the weary traveler always found a comfortable bed and a well laden table. His descendants are still living in the vicinity of his old home. HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 185 The brothers, Thomas, William and John Moffitt, commenced their residence here about the time the Dukes came. Thomas, after making for himself a home and its comforts, was attacked with the "Western Fever," sold his farm and emigrated to Iowa, or the "Black Hawk Country," as it was then called, where he passed the re- mainder of his life. John and William Moffitt and McClish remained to spend their lives in Blanchard Township. They were among its most substantial citizens. Michael Fishell, one of the early residents, sold his farm west of Benton about 1887 and moved to McComb where he spent the balance of his days. Alfred Davis, another frontiersman, and at one time one of the solid men of the county, owned and occupied a magnificent tract of land on both sides of the river, but unfortunately met with reverses in the latter part of his life; but even in his misfortunes he retained the high regard of his neighbors. He was a man of undoubted integrity of character. George Shaw, one of the early commissioners of the county, owned a splendid farm here, on which he spent the greater part of his life, and here he died and was buried. At an early day came also Jeremiah Cocle, David Millham, Solomon Foglesong (or, as in the original, Voglegesong), and the Epleys. These early settlers were all farmers, and no richer agricultural lands could be found in the State than those which they took up and their descendants occupy. These pioneers were hardy, temperate, frugal, energetic and industrious. and well deserve to be placed on the roll of honor as such. The first marriage was that of John Dukes and Hannah Houchings, the Rev. Thomas Thompson officiating. Two little children of George Shaw were the first in the township to die. Owen Hughes was one of those honest, upright, cheerful men that are the strength and life of a new settlement. He lived to a good old age and died as he had long lived, a consistent member of the church and a Christian man. He was twice married, but both his wives died before he did. Dick Carson was one of the champion fighters of the county. Not that he was quarrelsome or chronically pugnacious, but he was a powerful courageous man, of a somewhat sensitive nature, and while not ill-tempered, especially when sober, he was quick to resent an indignity, or an imputation of his courage or veracity. He was just such a man as every township or county wanted to defend its honor, as it was then the fashion, at a general training, or a county horse race. Dick was just the man for that, as many an unlucky braggart found to his utter discomfiture. He was a good neighbor, a firm friend, and, under ordinary circumstances, a peaceable citizen. His brother John L. Carson was at one time surveyor of the county. The two Carsons and their families finally emigrated farther west. The Downings were of the first settlers, and were a hardy, industrious family, and all became quite well off in course of time. George, David, and William went to California in 1849, but after a few years' experience there they returned to Blanchard Township and applied themselves to agricultural pursuits, and by industry and economy made great additions to 186 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY their western earnings. In after years William moved to Kansas, where he had the honor of representing his county in the State Legislature. He was followed to his new home by his father, "old Johnny Downing" as he was familiarly called, and his brother Isaac and family. The old gentleman and Isaac have died long ago. George resided in this township until about 1871, when he went to Iowa, where he lived many years. David Downing was one of the wealthiest and most respected citizens of the township. He was a model farmer with one of the finest dwelling houses, not only in the township but in the county, commodious and convenient outbuildings. His pecuniary circumstances enabled him to devote much of his time to the breeding and introduction of fine cattle in the county. He had some of the best herds in this part of the State. He dealt largely in stock cattle, being quite an extensive feeder. He was a member of the board of managers of the Hancock County Agricultural Society for a number of years and devoted much time in making the Society one of the best in the State. And his efforts and those of his associates were not unsuccessful. He had sons and daughters, all married and some, if not all, I believe, reside in this or adjoining townships. This locality on account of the abundance of fish and game, was one of the resorts of the Indians on their hunting expeditions. And indeed hunting and fishing were not only among the amusements of the whites, but they were occupations necessary to the support of themselves and families. The fish-net and the rifle was a part of the furniture of every well regulated log cabin, and by their skillful use the tables of the pioneer were bountifully spread. In 1848 a post office was established in this township called Oak Ridge. It was first located at the house of William Downing on the Findlay Defiance State road, north side of the river. Mr. Downing was the first postmaster. It was an office of no importance, only as it gave the community in which it was located, mail facilities. It has since been discontinued. Mr. Downing was succeeded by the following persons as postmaster : Robert Marshall, Mr. Morris, Mrs. Wm. Downing, Rezin Cook, David Downing, Eli Dukes and L. C. Groves. The first school in Blanchard Township was held in a log cabin affair, which stood near what was later the site of the Thomas Groves residence, and was built in 1830. It was taught by John W. Wickham. There are now ten school buildings in the township and the enumeration of youth is three hundred and eighty-four. CHAPTER XV. BIG LICK, CASS, AND DELAWARE TOWNSHIPS. BIG LICK TOWNSHIP. The county commissioners, at their session of March 7, 1831, after defining the boundaries and extent of Amanda Township "Ordered that the original survey of Township I north, in range 12 east, except Sections 34 and 35 shall hereafter be known and organized by the name of Big Lick. On June 3, 1833, Robert L. Strother and John Rose, commissioners, being present, the following order was passed : "Ordered that Big Lick Township shall include the whole of the original surveyed Township No. 1 north, in Range 12." Since the passage of that order, the township has been known as an original township of thirty-six sections. It contains 23,040 acres. This township is on the east line of the county and is bounded on the north by Washington Township, on the east by Seneca County, on the south by Wyandotte County and Amanda Township and on the west by Marion Township. The general surface of the land is level, although some parts are undulating. The prevailing soil is clay loam. In the southwestern part of the township is a sand ridge which is underlaid with limestone. In that locality is also a marsh or prairie, some 1,500 acres in extent, which is entirely a vegetable soil, and largely unreclaimed, except for grazing purposes. It will no doubt all be brought under final cultivation by the help of drainage. That so much of it has been reclaimed is largely due to the enterprise and well directed exertions of Judge Corey, of Findlay, who at one time owned most of the entire tract. The timber, which has long since been cut down, embraced red, white and burr oak, blue, black and white ash, beech, elm, hard and soft maple, sycamore, black and white walnut, hickory, basswood and buckeye. The township was traversed by a ridge of white oak of such excellence, that shipments of logs were extensively made to foreign countries. No streams of water traverse the township of sufficient size to furnish water-power. The only stream that maintains a current during the entire year is the outlet to the marsh or prairie. This sluggish stream takes its size in Seneca County, runs in a westerly direction and empties into the Blanchard River near Mr. Allen Wiseley's in Marion Township. There are a number of smaller streams, which, however, are only water courses in wet weather. In September, 1821, Henry McWhorter made entry of the west half of the southeast quarter of Section thirty-four. This was the first entry of land in the township. In May, - 187 - 188 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY 1825, the east half of the southeast quarter of Section 27 was entered by John G. Alspach, and September 5th of the same year Eliza Huff entered the east half of the northwest quarter of Section thirty-four. In December, 1828, John Shoemaker made entry of the east half of the southeast quarter of Section 17. These entries were followed in 1829 by those of John Huff, of the west half of the southeast quarter of Section 17 and of the west half of the northeast quarter of Section 21, by John Long. In 1830 Henry Hinebaugh, of Fairfield County, entered the northeast quarter of Section 1, and in the same year Uriah Egbert took up the west half of the northwest quarter of Section 19, and about the same time an entry of the west half of the northwest quarter was made by Philip Essex. William Hackett, of Stark County, William Roller, of Richland, Elijah Brayton, of Crawford, Mary Graham, of Madison, John Graham, William Wisely and others made entries of land, and became residents of the township. The first actual settler in Big Lick Township was Samuel Sargent, from Ross County, who made an improvement on the limestone ridge, in the southeastern part of the township some time in 1826. In the following year John Long located near the center. In February, 1829, John Shoemaker settled about three-fourths of a mile west from Mr. Long's. Mr. Shoemaker could recount the many hardships and incidents of frontier life. Long and Shoemaker came from Fairfield County, this state. In 1831 was held the first township election, the electors present being John Shoemaker, Robert Long, Levi Poulson and Cornelius Poulson. Whilst these men were holding an election and organizing the township the good Mrs. Long, at whose house they met, prepared them a dinner of the best in her larder. Amongst the early settlers here were the Thomases, the Moores, the Rollers, the Grahams and the Poulsons. Numerous sulphur springs on the farm of Robert Long, near the center of the township, comprise what used to be a famous deer lick called "Big Lick," from which the township derives its name. Large numbers of deer were killed here by the owner of this land and others. Mr. Long, on one occasion, had secured his seat in a tree convenient to the lick, when a colored man, who had been assisting in driving some cattle from some point farther west, and was on his return home, being overtaken by night, concluded to camp near the springs. Mr. Long supposing him to be a rival hunter watching for deer concluded to frighten him away, whereupon he made such an unearthly noise that the poor fellow took to his heels and never stopped until he brought up in the Blanchard River, near Allen Wiseley's. He had so overheated himself as to cause his death soon afterwards—a tragic ending of the joke that Mr. Long had not anticipated. Gangs of Indian hunters and trappers made the neighborhood their rendezvous and greatly annoyed the early settlers. Mr. Shoemaker, who was more progressive than his neighbors, had secured a grindstone, of which the Indians made such extensive use to sharpen their dull tomahawks and knives, that it was soon entirely worn out. They also had a way of trading venison for pork and potatoes with Mrs. John Moore, in which she invariably came out second best. Knowing that she was afraid of them, they would make their visits in the absence of her husband, when she, in order to get rid of them, would send them to the patch to help themselves, which they did so liberally HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 189 that the whole crop had soon disappeared. Vermin were also destructive to the corn. The settlers could only protect themselves by the use of the rifle, and if one chanced to be a poor shot he employed some one by the day who was an expert with the gun. At night too, the corn needed watching to save it from the raccoons. Mr. Moore at that time owned 16o acres of land and was perhaps as well off as any of his neighbors. He was, however, compelled to manufacture his own furniture. His first child was rocked in a sugar trough, made by "Big River," a Wyandot chief, and which had been used before the arrival of Mr. Moore in the country as a sap trough by the Indians. Mr. Moore's first bedstead was made by himself of iron-wood poles. The cords were of bass-wood bark, well interlaced together. No straw was to be had with which to fill the ticks and Mr. Moore thereupon gathered forest leaves sufficient to make a mattress. Mr. Moore was elected first supervisor of roads in the township and had for a district the north half of the township some eighteen square miles. He superintended the opening of the New Haven Road from the east township line westward to near the center of the township. As all the inclosed land had to be cultivated in order to produce food for man and beast, stock of every description was allowed to run at large in the forest. The damage done to crops by stock running at large made trouble amongst the people, and a board of fence viewers became necessary. This board were to determine, when called upon, whether or not the enclosure was a sufficient or legal fence. Accordingly William Roller, who was noted for his avoirdupoise, William Moore, who was noted for his diminutiveness, and Richard Bayless, noted for his activity, were chosen as the Board of Fence Viewers. It was then agreed that any fence which would bear Mr. Roller and through which Mr. Moore could not creep nor Mr. Bayless jump over should be declared a lawful fence. The first schoolhouse in the township was built in 1836, exclusively by voluntary labor. It was located in the forest a full half mile from any public highway, upon the farm now or lately owned by the heirs of James Graham. There were but two sub-districts in the township at the time. Sometime subsequent to the above date there was another schoolhouse built, about two miles west of the first on the lands owned by the heirs of Moses McAnnelly. A fair interest was taken in the cause of education by the citizens of this township ; the schools have been kept up to an efficient standard and are well attended by the youth of the township. The first church erected in the township was a hewed log structure thirty-six feet square and located on the present site of Enon Valley' Church on the Findlay and Tiffin road. It was built in 1844 by the citizens in the neighborhood, mainly however of the combined efforts of the Presbyterian, Covenanters and Seceders. The first site selected for the building was upon Robert Leonard's farm, some two miles southeast from the one subsequently built upon. Rev. R. H. Hooyday, of Findlay, Superintended the building of the church. There are now eight churches in this township. Two owned by the Evangelical denomination, two by the United Brethren, two Methodist Episcopal, one Presbyterian and one Christian Union. Amongst the first church members were Henry Thomas and wife, James Thomas and wife and Andrew Poulson. Big Lick Township has been so developed in its resources, as to be one of the richest in 190 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY the county. Wheat, corn, oats and grass are the principal crops and also produced in large quantities. The Findlay and Carey Branch of the Cleveland, Sandusky and Cincinnati Railroad runs through the township for a short distance. John Moore, commonly known among his near friends as "Farmer John" (P. O. Findlay), was born near Lancaster, Pa., October 16, 18̊8, son of Hugh and Susan (Buckwalter) Moore, the former a native of Tyrone County, Ireland, and the latter of Pennsylvania. Hugh Moore came to America about the year 1800 and settled in Pennsylvania. He had these children, John, William, Nancy, Amanda, George, Joseph, Samuel, Elizabeth, and Sarah. John Moore came to Ohio with his parents in 1828 and settled in Richland, now Ashland County. He was married in 1833 to Agness W. Roller, daughter of Judge William Roller, a descendant of Captain Weston, an old English navigator and explorer. To Mr. and Mrs. Moore were born eleven children, of whom four are now living, Nancy, Bruce, Lucinda, and Amanda. The deceased are Susannah, Mary, Ross W., William, Dorr, Duff, and Emma. Mr. Moore came to this county in 1833 with his wife's father, who entered eight quarter-sections of land in Big Lick Township, Mr. Moore getting the northwest quarter of Section 15 as his part, and building his log cabin near its center. This farm is now owned by his eldest daughter, Mrs. A. J. Moore. Mr. Moore was among the first settlers in this township and came here with his young wife, when all was new, and when energy, industry and good health were the requisites to success, these qualities were all combined in Mr. Moore and his brave wife. They soon opened up a farm, and his house was the stopping place for the stranger emigrant, and at his table was ever found a generous hospitality. Mr. Moore endured all the hardships of frontier life and in his old age was surrounded by his children and grandchildren, in the midst of plenty, the fruits of his toil. He enjoyed life peacefully and quietly, tenderly caring for his good wife, who was an invalid during the latter part of her life. He was one of the largest land owners, as well as one of the wealthiest men in the township.. He always followed the independent life of a farmer and was a staunch friend of our public schools and was a public spirited citizen during his whole life. In politics he was a Democrat and voted for Andrew Jackson. Mr. Moore died at his home December 4, 189o, his wife having preceded him to the grave August 9, 1888. Their remains rest side by side in the Bright Cemetery near Mt. Zion Church in Marion Township, this county. Moses M'Annelly was one of the prominent men of the county, as well as of this township, coming here at an early day and being a man of more than ordinary intelligence, he took the lead in the new settlements. He represented this county in both branches of the Ohio Legislature, and was regarded as an honest, upright man. He, too, was an agriculturist, and made for himself and family a pleasant and valuable home. He has been dead a number of years. John Shoemaker came to this township from Fairfield County in February, 1829, 191 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY having the year previous entered lands in Section 17. There were but a very few families in the township at that time, among whom were Samuel Sargeant, on the limestone ridge, and John Long, in the immediate neighborhood of Mr. Sargeant's settlement. Mr. Shoemaker was present and assisted at the organization of the township in 1831. The cultivation of the soil was always his occupation. Honest, industrious and hospitable, he always commanded the respect of the community. His sterling good sense always made his advice valuable. He reaped the fruits of his long years of toil and privation, happy in the consciousness of the unvaried rectitude of his life. He has been dead several years. William Roller, one of the associate judges of the Common Pleas Court of the county, was also a resident of this township. As a judge, his good common sense and honesty of action gave him his very flattering reputation. Honest in his convictions, sympathetic in his feelings, he could hardly err in his decisions, as he was a man of average intelligence and fair common school education. He never abandoned the occupation of a farmer, but succeeded in amassing a competency and leaving a considerable inheritance to his children. He was respected by his neighbors and was always a friend of those in need. Unostentatious in his private life, and courteous in public, he could not but have hosts of friends. CASS TOWNSHIP. On the 1st day of March, 1833, the commissioners "Ordered that the original surveyed Township Number 2, in Range east, be set off into a separate township, politic and corporate, and to be called Cass." Ordered that an. order be issued to the voters of Cass, to meet on the first Monday of April and elect township officers. At the formation of Allen Township in 185o, Sections 5, 6, 7, 8, 17, 18, 20, 29, 30, 31, and 32 of this township were taken to assist in the forming of that township. Hence there are but twenty-four sections in this township at present. Cass Township was named in honor of Gen. Lewis Cass, of Michigan, and -is located on the north border of the county. Bounded on the north by Wood County, on the east by Washington Township, on the south by Marion and on the west by Allen Township. The township contains 15,36o acres. The timber of Cass Township was abundant and comprised oak, ash, hickory, sugar, beech, elm, walnut and poplar, with perhaps a few other varieties. The soil on the ridge in the northern part of the township is sandy and gravelly. Between the ridge and the Wood County line, it is a loam of vegetable formation, whilst south of the ridge there is a mixture of clay with other soil. The Portage River has its source in this part of Hancock County and is the only stream of water in this township. Good drinking water, however, is obtained by sinking wells to a no very great depth. David P. Day, of Wayne County, O., made the first entry of land in this township on March 10, 1832, at which time he took up the northeast quarter. of Section 11. Two days afterwards John Franks entered the southwest quarter of Section 1, and the 192 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY north half of Section 10. Mr. Franks was also from Wayne County. May 3, 1832, Elam Day entered the east half of the northwest quarter of Section 12 and on the 31st day of the same month, Eleazer C. Fairchild, of Trunbull County, entered the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of Section 2, and the west half of the northwest quarter of Section 12. In the same year, entries were made by Andrew NV. Page, of Green County, D. Shippy, of Seneca, C. W. Colebaugh, Alphens Eldridge, James Wood, Samuel McClellan, of Wayne, William Eckles, of Holmes, James Beeson, of Fayette. The first schoolhouse was built in 1835 and there are now six schoolhouses in the township and the enumeration of youth of school age in 188o was 278. The first church was built in 1843 by the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and was known as the Vickers Church on the ridge. There are now but two church buildings in the township and they both belong to the Methodist Episcopal denomination. The first settlements were made in 1833 on Sections 1, 2 and 3 by E. C. Fairchild, Daniel Fairchild, David P. and Elam Day, James Vickers, John Franks, Hanes Brown, Samuel Harry, and on Section 12 by Charles Eckles, John Welch and George Elliot. On Section 11 by John Hardy, Hiram Hulbert and James Woods. The early settlers here were mostly from the eastern part of this state. In 1837 a post office was established in this township, which was discontinued in 1867. Daniel Fairchild and James Vickers were the only postmasters. There is much very valuable land in this part of the county, and the farms and farm buildings, for style and comfort, will compare favorably with that of any other township in the county, as will also the type of citizenship. The Lake Erie and Western Railroad runs across the southeast corner of the township and the New York, Chicago and St. Louis road passes through the township from east to west. John Burman was born in Luzerne County, Pa., February 18, 1783, and removed to Fairchild County, Ohio, where he was married to Catherine Fisher. He was a gunsmith and worked at that trade until he came to this county in 1828, after which time he was a farmer. He, his father, and two brothers were in the service of the United States in the War of 1812. On coming to this county with his family, he took up his residence in a log cabin on the land which he subsequently occupied up to the time of his death. Mr. Burman was of medium height, and weighed about 175; of strong constitution and robust health he was well calculated to do battle with the hardships of pioneer life. In religious belief, he was a Lutheran, and was a member of that church many years. He built the first mill in the township. During the first year of his residence here, his was the only family residing in the township. Two of his sons were in the army during the rebellion. Mr. Burman died in 1863 and his aged wife survived him about five years. Ezra Karn was one of a family of eight boys and four girls, all of whom attained full age except one, and was born in Washington County, Md., September 16, 1815. The family removed to Ohio in 1817, set- HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 193 tling in Holmes County. In 1836 Mr. Karn came to Hancock County with his family and settled in this township on the farm later owned by P. C. Redfern. Again the family became frontiersmen, the country being new, and but sparsely settled, and without roads or markets. ,Here the Karns had as neighbors, John Hardy, Hiram Hulbert, Daniel Fairchild, John Franks, John Eckles, and James Vickers. In 1839 Mr. Karn married Miss Elizabeth Albertson, and commenced at once to make for himself a home. He cleared up two farms and by his industry and perseverance succeeded in surrounding himself and family with the comforts of civilization. Mr. Karn had a family of eight children. His wife died in May, 188o, after a long and useful life. Mr. Karn had the confidence of his neighbors and acquaintances for his sterling honesty and good common sense. He was a member of the Lutheran Church and his life was one consistent with his profession. He was one of the very first members and for many years an officer of the Hancock County Agricultural society, organized in 1852, and always lent his influence and aid to its building up and its success is largely due to his continual labors in its behalf. He was vice president of the society for several years. James Vickers was born in England and came to this country in about 1825 and settled in Wayne County, Ohio. In 1833 he made his way to this county and commenced his labors on the farm later owned by his son, James A. No man in the township was more generally respected than was Mr. Vickers. Conscientious, honest, temperate, and hospitable, kind to all, a friend to the poor and always ready to render assistance to the weary emigrant. His house was the home of the Methodist itinerant and here services were held until a suitable building could be erected upon his land. To the building of this house and the sustaining of the minister of the church he was a liberal contributor. Mr. Vickers was a farmer and by the aid of his good wife and his family, which was a large one, he always had an abundance. He died in 1867, lamented by the entire community. His wife survived him until 1881. John Eckles was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., on the 25th day of April, 1795, and resided in that state until 1836. In 1819 Mr. Eckles married Esther Booth, with whom he lived up to the time of her decease in 1862. His ancestors were from Ireland. During his whole active life he followed the occupation of a farmer. He is a man of strong will and of very decided opinions, and was not easily swerved from his purposes. In 1836 with his wife and four sons he emigrated to this township. He purchased 220 acres of land on the ridge, between Fostoria and Van Buren, principally of John Franks, Sr., which he developed into one of the very best farms on the ridge. The country was new, no markets, no roads, no neighbors scarcely, and the family endured all the hardships incident to new settlements. Mr. Eckles united with the Presbyterian Church in early life, and was one of the first members of that church at Van Buren. DELAWARE TOWNSHIP. The territory now included in the township of Delaware was organized in the year 1828, 194 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY and was at first named Welfare. On June 1, 1829, agreeable to the petition of sundry citizens of the township, the name of Welfare was changed to that of Delaware. The township no doubt owes its present name to the fact that the Delaware tribe of Indians made this part of the county a favorite resort. This township now includes Sections I, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 33, 34, 35, 36, in Township 2 south, Range 11 east and Sections 6, 7, 18, 19, 30 and 31, in Township 2 south, Range 12 east. It is located in the southeast corner of the county and bounded on the north by Amanda and Jackson Townships, on the east by Wyandotte County, on the south by Hardin County, on the west by Madison Township. It contains thirty sections of land, or 19,200 acres. The soil of Delaware Township is generally a black sandy loam, intermixed with clay in some parts. The Blanchard River traverses the township from south to north and with its fertile bottom lands and numerous creek bottoms, makes it one of the best agricultural districts in the county. Many of the most beautiful farms in the county are to be found here. The land as in all parts of the county was heavily wooded, and the improvements we see here are the result of most arduous toil. The timber that was found here was of the usual kinds, indigenous to the country, such as sugar, beech, elm (white and black), ash, the different varieties of the oak, walnut, hickory, hackberry, buckeye, etc. The township is well watered by the Blanchard River, which crosses it, and by the creeks and runs tributary to it. The most considerable creek is in the eastern part of the township and called Potato Creek. Good drinking water can be had in all portions of the township by sinking wells from ten to thirty feet. The lands in this township were mostly purchased by emigrants from the southeastern counties of Ohio. A few, however, were from Pennsylvania and Virginia. This was a full township of thirty-six sections until the formation of Wyandotte County in 1845, when one tier of sections on the east side were taken to help form that county. Asa M. Lake made the first entry of lands in this township Dec. 12, 1822. The tract entered was the west half of the northwest quarter of Section 1. This tract was on the east side of the Blanchard River and is now occupied in part by the village of Mt. Blanchard. In 1823 entries were made in the following order as to dates : Michael Buck, west half of the northeast quarter of Section 2 ; Curtis Berry, east half of northeast quarter of Section 2 ; John Brundage, the southwest quarter of Section 1; W. J. Greer, east half of northwest quarter of Section I ; John Rose, east half of southwest quarter of Section 14; William Davis east half of northwest quarter of Section 14. Then followed entries by David Augustus, Marquis Lafayette Plumb, Levi Edgington and others, in 1826, and by Josiah Elder, Godfrey Wolford and others in 1827. Asa M. Lake built a log cabin on a parcel of ground afterwards owned by Michael Treece and in the limits of the village of Mt. Blanchard. The parcel of land had been used by the Indians as a burying ground and many skeletons and relics have been found there. Amongst the first settlers of this township, in addition to Asa M. Lake, were Josiah Elder, the Hamlins, the Wolfords and the Greers. The settlement here was perhaps the very earliest in the county next to that at Findlay. HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 195 Don Alonzo Hamlin was the first sheriff of the county and was also county assessor. Godfrey Wolford was coroner of the county and was also county commissioner, and Asa M. Lake was one of the first justices of the peace in the county. Mr. Lake after coming to this county resided here up to the time of his death. He was a typical pioneer—hardy, industrious and honest—and succeeded in building up for himself and his children a home in one of the richest sections of our county, living long enough to see a thriving village built up on the very lands he had redeemed from the wilderness, and peopled with an intelligent and energetic population, supplied with schools and churches and other appliances of civilization. The redman who had been his early companions had long since removed westward, and herds of domestic animals taken the place of the wild. Josiah Elder, whose parents came to this part of the county almost simultaneously with the Lakes, after spending an honest, active lifetime, almost, in the township, died many years ago on the old homestead. Mrs. Henry Helms, a sister of Mr. Elder, related to D. B. Beardsley some years ago the incidents connected with her wedding day, in that long ago. She was first married to William J. Greer of this township. She relates that her intended husband and herself travelled from Delaware Township to Findlay on horse-back (both on one horse) through the almost trackless wilderness, where they obtained a license, and then in the same manner went to the residence of Joshua Hedges, a justice of the peace three miles west of Findlay where they were married, and returned to their homes. The trip occupied three days. The first schoolhouse was built in 1830 near the center of the township, on the farm owned by J. A. Rose. The first school was taught by John Wolford. The school population was not large at that time, and were easily accommodated in the log schoolhouse. The enumeration of school age in this township is 355, outside the town of Mt. Blanchard. There are now eight schoolhouses in the township, one graded and seven common or ungraded. The first church in Delaware Township was built in 1838, by the Methodist Episcopal denomination, in the town of Mt. Blanchard. But it must not be supposed that the people were without religious services up to that time. Services had been held in schoolhouses and private houses. There are now seven churches in the township, three Methodist Protestant, two Methodist Episcopal, one Baptist and one Presbyterian. Godfrey Wolford built a flouring mill on the Blanchard River in 1830, near the center of the township. The mill was known as Fahl's Mills. And Felix Miller built a sawmill—the first in the township—on the Blanchard River, near the south line of the township. The only stillhouse ever in the township was built in 1833 by Abner Bell. It was run but a short time and was then sold to Samuel Thornton and removed to Jackson Township, where it was operated for several years. The first white child born in this township was John B. Elder and it is believed to have been the first white child born in the county. Marion Greer was the first white female born in the township. Nancy Williams, wife of Nathan Williams, was the first white person who died in this township. The first election for township officers was held in 1832. R. W. Hamlin, Harvey Smith, 196 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY and John Rose, were elected trustees ; Godfrey Wolford, clerk, and D. O. Hamlin, treasurer. The first couple married were Asa M. Lake and Charlotte M. Greer, and the second couple, William J. Greer and Rosanna Elder. Both couples were married by Joshua Hedges, J. P., of Findlay. In 1828 or 1829, as John H. Greer, M. S. Hamlin, J. Greer and D. O. Hamlin were out at play, they came to where a tree had been blown out by the roots and in falling had left bare the skeleton of an Indian. Here they found a large amount of jewelry, consisting of finger rings, ear and nose rings, wristlets, breast plate, necklace, and quite a large nugget, which they supposed to be copper, all engraved with some French characters. Supposing the rings to be nothing but tin and of no particular value, they divided them equally among themselves as nearly as they could. There was a trading post established in what is now Wyandotte County, the agent of which, hearing of this find, sent word that if they would bring them to him, he would pay them all they were worth. M. S. Hamlin sent his portion of the property, for which he received seven dollars in money. The nugget laid around for a long time, pieces being frequently knocked off and it was finally lost. This was afterwards supposed by some to have been gold. In 1830 John Greer and M. S. Hamlin, two lads, concluded that they would take a hunt and with their guns and ammunition, on a beautiful morning, they started on their way. After spending some time in the sport and securing what game they wanted, they started on their way home, but after travelling some time, and not reaching home, it became evident that they had lost their way. After a few moments of consultation, they agreed on the direction they would take, when, traveling until late in the afternoon, they came to an opening or clearing, when they found to their great surprise and disappointment, that they had arrived at Upper Sandusky. They then struck off on the old Indian trail. To reach home that night they knew was impossible, but they determined to go as far as they could. Just as the sun was setting, they came to an Indian wigwam. The old Indian and his squaw kindly took them in, administered to their wants and they had a good night's rest. The next morning the Indian pointed out the old trail to them, bade them God speed, and they resumed their weary tramp on their road home, where they arrived the same day. CHAPTER XVI. EAGLE, JACKSON, AND LIBERTY TOWNSHIPS. EAGLE TOWNSHIP. From the records of the county commissioners for the 3rd of December, 1832, we find that "a petition was presented by sundry citizens of the original Township 1 south, in Range Jo east, praying to be organized. Township 1 south, in Range 2 east, was accordingly set off, and formed into a body politic and corporate, and the said township shall be called Eagle." Eagle Township contains 23,040 acres, and is bounded on the north by Liberty and Findlay, on the east by Jackson, on the south by Madison and Van Buren, and on the west by Union. It takes its name from the creek of the same name which runs through it, and is situated in the first range of townships south of the base line. The first land entered in this township, was the west half of the northeast quarter of Section 35, by John Woodruff, on the first day of June, 1827. On the 6th day of June, 1829, Elijah Woodruff entered the northwest quarter of Section 13. These farms were afterward owned by William Yates and J. Alspach. On the 7th day of August of the same year, Phillip Heakes entered the lands afterward owned by the heirs of George Arnold in Section 12, and in November of the same year, George Bishop entered the northwest quarter of Section 24—for a long time the John D. Bishop farm and mill. The northwest quarter of Section 9 was entered by Joshua Hedges of Pickaway County, on the 28th of September, 1830, and on the 37th of November, in the same year, Shun Sager entered the west half of the southwest quarter of Section 31. In the latter part of the year 1831, entries were made in Sections 5, 6 and 8, by Jacob Powell, all of Fairfield County, Ohio, and by John Bright in Section 21. Other entries followed, and much of the land in this township was speedily taken up. The soil of this locality, especially along the Eagle and Tiderishi Creeks, is of a rich sandy loam, and many very valuable farms are located along these creeks. In other parts of the township, a fertile clay predominates which produces good crops of corn, wheat, oats and grass. The surface is quite level, with a tendency to be rolling in the immediate vicinity of the creeks. From the begining of settlement here until within the last twenty years, this township, with others surrounding it, was the center of the "milk-sickness," elsewhere mentioned in this work. The timber was of the prevalent varieties mentioned in other parts of the county, such as walnut, ash, oak, sugar and - 197 - 198 - HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY beech, etc. The timber and vegetation throughout the township was of a large growth. Eagle Creek and Tiderishi, with their tributaries, furnish an abundance of water for stock and ample outlets for drainage in all parts of the township. Eagle Creek crosses the township from south to north, in the east part, and Tiderishi also from the south, pursuing a northwesterly course, passing out near the northwest corner. These streams, of course, are small, and yet Eagle Creek furnished waterpower for mill purposes for more than fifty years after the first settlement of the country. But by the clearing off of the forests, and the underdraining of the soil, the surplus water fall is now so quickly passed into the streams and flows away, that the time waterpower would be available, would not reimburse the investor for his expense, and consequently all of the water mills, not only in Eagle Township, but throughout the entire county, have been abandoned. Not one remains to tell the tale. The first settlement made in this township was by John Woodruff in the latter part of 1829, and by John Decker, Benjamin Whitman, Conrod Line, Jacob Zolland, R. W. McClellen, in 183o. These pioneers were followed in 1831 by John D. Bishop, Elias Decker, Amos Crum and others. Most of these first settlers came from Fairfield and Franklin Counties. Whitman was from New York and McClellen was from Pennsylvania. The first settlements were on or near Eagle Creek in the eastern part of the township. The Nunamakers, Heldmans, Arris, Bormuths and others very soon afterward made settlement in the west part, and the Powells and others located on the Tiderishi, in the northwest corner. At the first election in 1833, when the township was organized, there were barely enough electors to fill the offices. Benjamin Whitman, Conrod Line, George Bishop, John Woodruff and John Decker were voters at the election. The first schoolhouse built within the limits of the township was in the Bishop district in 1834. At that time Mr. John D. Bishop and Benjamin Whitman were the only taxpayers in the district. Rachel McBride taught the first school in this district. There are now nine substantial and comfortable school buildings in the township. Until 1840, religious services were held in the residences and schoolhouses, no church buildings being erected in this township before that time. In 184o, the United Brethren Church erected a building on the farm of John Woodruff on the east bank of Eagle Creek. It was of hewn logs, small in dimensions, but large enough to accommodate all the religiously inclined of the sparse settlement. Among the first members of this society were Mrs. Woodruff, Conrod Line and wife, and some of the Deckers. The first mill was known as Decker's hand mill, and here by a great deal of muscular power, corn could be ground fine enough for mush making. It was, however, a slow, laborious process. In 183o George Bishop erected a saw-mill, and in 1833, a flouring-mill, on the site still known as Bishop's Mill. In 1854, John D. Bishop, who then owned the property, installed steam power, as the mill previous to that time had been propelled by water power. But after a few years' trial he became dissatisfied with this, and removed it, again returning to water power until the mill was abandoned about 189o. Perhaps no mill in the county was of more real benefit, when HISTORY OF HANCOCK COUNTY - 199 mills were most needed, than was this one. Not only did the immediate neighborhood patronize it, but people came from a great distance to have their corn and wheat ground here. Since 1840 the township has developed very rapidly and can boast of some of the richest farmers in the county. Beautiful residences and capacious barns, with other outhouses, were erected and the country has an appearance of wealth and comfort. The soil is rich and easily cultivated, and the people are engaged in the lucrative occupation of farming, and by their industry and proper economy are living bounteously and accumulating wealth. Most of the main roads are now piked and those not so will be soon, and in traveling over the township one can see on every hand evidences of contentment and prosperity. In 1850 a post office named Clement was established on the Bellefontaine road about six miles south of Findlay, with Amos Crum as postmaster. Mr. Crum was succeeded by John Swank, who held the office until it was discontinued in 1864. JACKSON TOWNSHIP. On December 7, 1829, Charles McKinnis, John P. Hamilton, and Mordica Hammond, commissioners, received "A petition presented by sundry citizens of Amanda and Delaware Townships, praying for a new township, to be set off as follows, to-wit : Number 1, Range I1, south of the base line, into a body politic and corporate, and to be named Jackson, which was agreed to by said Board." At the December session of the commissioners in 1836, it was "ordered that an election be held in Jackson Township, to elect a treasurer and three trustees for Section 16, on the 20th day of December, 1836, and that notices thereof be set up in three Df the most public places in the township, that there are twenty electors in the said township, at the usual places of holding elections." It was also ordered "that Sections 3, 4, 5, and 6 in Township 1 south, Range 12 (now Biglick Township), and Sections 1, 12, 13, 24, 25 and 36, in Range Number 11, Township I south (now Jackson Township), be attached to Amanda Township." Jackson Township now comprises Sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34 and 35, in township one south. It contains 19,200 acres, and was named in honor of Ge.n. Andrew Jackson, who was then President' of the United States. It is bounded on the north by Marion and formerly a part of Findlay, on the east by Amanda, on the south by Delaware and Madison and on the west by Eagle Township. Peter George made the first entry of land in the township on the 21st day of November, 1823, which entry was the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 35, afterwards owned by G. W. Krout. December 1o, 1823, William Greer entered the east half of the southeast quarter of Section 35, afterwards owned by T. G. Hammond. David Egbert entered the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 2, and in September of the same year Alpheus Ralston entered the southeast quarter of Section 7, upon which he soon afterwards settled and lived on it to his death some years ago. In