220 - HISTORY OF
CHAPTER XVII.
KNOX COUNTY IN 1817.
ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE SPIRIT OF THE TIMES. THEATRICALS.--MISIONARIES TO BE SENT TO CONNECTICUT.-SMALL-POX EXCITEMENT.--TRIALS OF INTEREST.- PATRIOTIC OUTGUSHINGS OF POPULAR FEELING. - COMBINATION OF MECHANICS.--BILL OF PRICES.--FIRST DELEGATE TO THE STATE INSTITUTION.-ANOTHER TOWN.-MORE WHISKY AND MORE MARRIAGES.
THIS year was introduced by a grand Theatrical exhibition by the young gentlemen of Mount Vernon. Of the performances, the following were a part: 1. An Address to the audience; 2. The Conjurer-A Dialogue; 3. The Dispute between a Merchant and his Wife; 4. Clownishness and Awkwardness, in 2 Acts; 5. The Lap-Dog--A Dialogue of two Ladies; 6. Douglass, or the Noble Shepherd--A Tragedy; 7. The Knight's Dream; 8. Cowardice and Knavery; 9. A Dialogue between a Schoolmaster and School Committee, &c. For several years the young gentlemen continued their theatrical exhibitions, and often acquitted themselves handsomely.
The following "furwan" we copy verbatim from the .Register of January 29th, 1817:
"TAKE NOTICE-That eye have left my wife Iselbelah irelands bead and board and eye know furnwan eny person or persons creeaditing hir on my account as eye shall not be acountable for any of her deats or contracts from this date likewse eye furwan
KNOX COUNTY. 221
eny person or persons from purchasing eny property whatever til her former deats is all paid up JOHN IRELAND."
The following entry upon the Court minutes, shows that the people were minus a term of Common Pleas. The reason, we learn from the oldest inhabitant, was "high water"--one of the "biggest" spring floods ever known by the old settlers:
"The Court of Com. Pleas was opened at Mount Vernon the 24th March, 1817. The Sheriff appeared and called the Court, who failing to appear, the Sheriff adjourned the Court until tomorrow morning 9 o'clock. The Sheriff appeared and opened Court agreeable to adjournment, and called the Court, and Judges young and Trimble, and no other Judge; whereupon, by order of the Judges, ordered the Sheriff adjourn the Court until to-morrow morning JACOB YOUNG.
"9 o'clock, according to adjournment, the Hon. Jacob Young and John Trimble Esq., Associate Judges, appeared. There not being a quorum, the Court being opened, the said Judges ordered the Court adjourned until Court in course. JACOB YOUNG."
This month a Yankee peddler, named Giddings, passed through the county bound for Columbus, who sold to several of the merchants wooden nutmegs, having a few genuine ones for them "to sample."
The old settlers of the county became charitably inclined, and determined to send Missionaries to convert "the everlasting heathen of Connecticut." Accordingly they formed a society for this purpose, and published on the 9th of April the following notice:
OHIO MISSIONARY SOCIETY.
"We are authorized to state, that a Society has been formed in this State for the purpose of propagating the Gospel among the
222 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
everlasting Heathen of Connecticut and the parts adjacent. The first meeting of the Society will be held in Zanesvihle on the 20th of May next, for the purpose of electing suitable Missionaries for the parformance of the arduous undertaking. It is hoped that all who are favorable to the cause, will contribute their mite to effect so desirable an object.
"Printers favorably disposed towards the Ohio Missionary Society, are requested to give the foregoing one or two insertions."
At this period Zanesville was the great town of Central Ohio, and at that place and Putnam the principal shipping and other business was transacted by the citizens of Knox county.
In May, 1817, John S. Dugan having opened the Green Tree Hotel in Zanesville, advertises that he has a number of German servants (redemptioners), "who are attentive and honest; one of which is a regular bred horse Doctor, and served six years under Bonaparte as such; and 'tis said by travelers, he is one of the best hostlers in the United States.
My whole study is to please, and I hope the public will give me a chance to do so."
The little log school-house on the public square had served its time, and at private houses schools had for some time been kept, when the public-spirited men in Mount Vernon started subscriptions to build another.
June 7th. The subscribers to the new schoolhouse proposed to be erected, met at Richardson and Vore's tavern to choose managers, &c.
June 18th. The small-pox having made its appearance at Newark, caused a great excitement in the quiet village of Mount Vernon. The inhabitants ran to and fro, not knowing what to do. A public consultation was had, and Dr. R. D. Moore
223 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
wrote and published a little treatise on the subject, giving the origin of the disease, the views of "the immortal JENNER" upon "the grease," "cow-pox." "small-pox," etc., and concluding as follows :- The small-pox has been for some months past traveling northward, and is now within a short distance from this place. The subscriber will attend on every SATURDAY, at his house in Mount Vernon, for the purpose of vaccinating (those whose pecuniary means will not warrant application), gratis.'
Anderson Searl, of Mount Vernon, on the 18th of June, publishes that he will not pay a certain note given to William Shinnibery for a certain black and white muley cow, to be delivered to him next harvest; "the said note being given in part consideration of a certain horse sold to me by said Shinnibery for a sound horse, which I have since found to be unsound."
NOTABLE PROCEEDINGS OF COMMON PLEAS COURT, JUNE 23d.
"At this term, the Indictments vs. John Strain, were read, and be was fined on the first $20 and costs-and on the second, assault and battery, $10 and costs.
".The Grand Jurors-Royal D. Simons, foreman-returned seven bills of Indictment. Albert Sherwood, by verdict of jury, recovered $75 off of Wm. Williams for assault and battery; and in suit of the State Wm. Williams was fined $15 and costs. Thomas Wilkins and John Roop are, each, fined $5 and costs for assault and battery; and John Strain and John Roop, each, fined $5 and costs for an affray, and Robert Butler was fined $15 and costs.
"James Trimble renews his tavern license; also Michael Harter, John Davidson, Gotleib Zimmerman, and Richardson & Yore.
"On application of Anthony Banning and Samuel Kratzer for the vacating of a part of the addition of the town of Mount Vernon. The application is overruled at the cost of the applicants.
224 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
"Samuel H. Smith's application for vacating part of the town of Clinton was continued; and also continued Oct. term, 1817.
"Ordered that a certificate issue to pay expense of Coroner's inquest over the body of Wm. Conaway, jr.; also of N. Butler.
PATRIOTIC OUTBURST ON THE NATIONAL ANNIVERSARY.
The 4th of July was celebrated by the Mount Vernon Artillery Company, under Capt. Joseph Brown, with all the pomp and circumstance of war. The day was duly ushered in by a national salute-a grand parade came off-a sumptuous dinner at Richardson & Vore's inn-and toasts, speeches, and wine made it a merry occasion. The Declaration of Independence was read by Doctor Robert D. Moore. Among the toasts were the following:
" The Constitution, the grandest work of human geahahius-May it long stand the proudest monument of Republican solidity.
" The memory of our departed American heroes from Warren down to the brave Pike and Lawrence.
"Faction, the bane of republican governments-May it never be suffered to impair confidence in our legally constituted authorities
"May the words Federalist and Democrat be exchanged for the prouder appellation of-' I am an American citizen.'
"The Fair Daughters of Columbia-Always lovely, but more divinely enchanting when attired in homespun, smiling on the patriot brave.
"By Capt. John Shaw-May brother Jonathan watch John Bull with the eye of an Eagle."
A quarterly or sacramental meeting was held on Friday, the 4th of July, at the Dry Creek school house. All christians and ministers of the gospel were earnestly solicited to attend and assist in the various exercises of the service.
KNOX COUNTY. 225
THE STORE SET UPON CAMPBELL'S POEMS-THREE DOLLARS OF
ADVERTISING A $1.50
BOOK.
"Hope deferred maketh the heart sick."
"In the month of November, 1815, I advertised a volume of Campbell's poems, which I had lent some considerable time before to an acquaintance of mine. The principal poem in this work is entitled "The pleasure. of Hope," and I had entertained a hope of obtaining it long ere this; but this hope, like some other of my expectations, has perished. I now only wish it may be returned to me.
Robert Buchanan.
June18th,1817.
This notice not having the desired effect, on the 16th of July the following pointed addition is made to it: "If Mr. J-n W-. k-r, who was entrusted to deliver the above volume to me, by the person to whom I lent it, does not return it within two weeks from the date hereof, I will give his name to the public, together with some traits of his character, which have not much the appearance of honesty!
"As I am credibly informed that you have refused five dollar. for those poems, I think you ought not to object paying me $1.50 for them. You may send or bring me this amount, or the book, at your own option. I am determined to have it or its worth from you-peaceably if I can, forcibly if I must.
R.B.
" The pleasures of Hope"-again.
"To Mr. John Walker:
Sir-- The two weeks in which I allowed you to return the above poems, have now elapsed unheeded by you. At the expiration of that time, I promised to give the public your name and an exposition of your conduct in retaining this book in your own possession after having politely proffered your services to convey it to me from the young lady to whom I had lent it; but being blessed with a pretty good share of charity , I have omitted the exposition for the present, and inserted your name only-giving you one week further to decide whether or not 'honesty is the best policy!'
July 3d,1817
ROBERT BUCHANAN.
226 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS SHOWING THE KIND OF CURRENCY,
BUSINESS VIEWS AND INCONVENIENCES.
John Frank & Co., July 17th, offer "iron, castings and salt, being both chartered and cash articles in this place, and solicit their friends to whom they gave a short credit last winter to come forward and discharge their respective accounts. * * * * They are informed that the paper of the Owl Creek Bank of Mount Vernon, and that of Canton, and the Farmers & Mechanics' Bank of Steubenville will be taken," &c.
Luke Walpole brings to Mount Vernon a quantity of salt, leather, and castings to exchange for beef and pork, delivered in Zanesville the coining winter.
Oct. 16th, Frederick Falley, proprietor of Venice, has 1,000 lots for sale, and invites all classes of mechanics and business men to locate there. About this time it was the supposition that Venice would become the future shipping point for Knox county, and Norton & Banning established a storage, commission and mercantile house at Venice, on the Sandusky bay. As evidence that this belief was general, we may cite the act of the Legislature of 1817, declaring that the road to be made by the Knox, Richland & Huron Turnpike Company shall terminate at the town of Venice, on Sandusky bay.
Robert D. Moore, as agent for the Mary Ann Furnace, situate on the Rocky Fork of Licking, brings to the notice of our citizens a large assortment of castings of superior beauty and quality, and asks them to encourage manufactories.
Daniel S. Norton notifies those who were in debt
227 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
to him on the 16th of August last, to pay up while they can in the paper of the country.
Anthony Banning advertises a large lot of leather, which he will sell for hides or chartered money- or chartered money will be given for hides.
Jesse B. Thomas cautions "all persons (indiscriminately) against cutting, destroying, or removing timber from or otherwise trespassing upon his lands on the Hamtramek section, as I have given my agents (Messrs. John Roberts and John Warden) positive instructions to prosecute all."
THE FIRST COMBINATIONS OF MECHANICS, WHO THEY WERE
AND THEIR BILLS OF PRICES.
"TAYLORS PRICES.-We, the subscribers, of Mount Vernon, have agreed to establish the following prices for Tayloring, viz: Great coats, $4.50; broad cloth coats, $4.00; common homespun, 33.50; common pantaloons, $1.25; vest, $1.25; pantaloons with buttons on the legs, $1.75; ditto welled, $1.50; cherrivallies laced, $3 plain ditto, $2.25; ladies' coats, $3.50. Any extra work on the above articles shall be priced according to the work.
WM. W. ALEXANDER,
WM. PETTIGREW,
WM. CROUCH.
May 20, 1817."
William Giffin and Peter Zarly got up a meeting of Millwrights, at Zimmerman's inn, on the 26th of August, for establishing a bill of prices for their work. At this meeting John Williamson, Samuel Pyle, Peter Zarly, James King and William Giffin were present. Among the items we find-"For a double geered grist-mill, $300; for a double geered saw-mill, $200; for a meal spout, $2; meal trough, $3; hopper, $4, &c."
Jacob Myers, Patrick Nellans, Robert Robert-
228 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
son, Samuel Hoppers, Samuel Vance, John Byan, John Cottle, John Kinsey and David Poter, agree, upon honor, to support the said bill of prices.
PETTY THIEVING AND OTHER RASCALITY.
Michael Click offers one cent reward for Michael Teadrow, an apprentice to the brick-making business, but no charges paid. September 3d.
James Miller publishes the following notice:
"The person who took away a Mattock from my building, without leave, is requested to return the same immediately, or his name will be given to the public (besides prosecuting), as it is well known who purloined it."
"TAKE CARE.-The person who was so kind as to take away without leave, a pair of stretchers and a broken singletree, on the 29th of August; they were laying on the green between Messrs. Bryant & Burr's and Mr. J. Frank & Co.'s stores, are requested to return the same immediately to the subscriber, and save themselves trouble, they had better return them before they are troubled with a call from Mr. Constable.
" Mt. Vernon, Sept. 5, 1817. James Thompson."
Noah Rude has a chesnut sorrel horse stolen from James Bryant's pasture on the night of the 5th of September, and offers a reward for him.
At the District Court of the United States, held at Chillicothe on the 9th of September, Samuel Bunting was indicted on a charge of robbing the mail between Newark and Zanesville, and was sentenced to the Penitentiary for one year.
Horse thieves about this time became So bold that Joseph Berry had, on the morning of the 19th of September, a mare, saddle and bridle stolen from the door of James Thompson in Mount Vernon, just after he had hitched her, and gone into the house-
229 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
At the October term of Knox Common Pleas, John McFarland was tried for feloniously stealing a five and two one dollar notes on the Owl Creek Bank of Mount Vernon. The jury found him guilty of stealing the five dollar note; as to the other counts in the indictments, not guilty. The court sentenced him to one year imprisonment in the penitentiary at hard labor, but no part of said term to be kept in solitary cells of the prison. The prisoner was a boy, 14 to 15 years of age, the son of a poor man, who, from want of restraint and of care in his tuition, had been led to crime.
PROCEEDINGS OF FALL TERM (OCT. 13TH) COMMON PLEAS.
"On the petition of sundry inhabitants of Mount Vernon for incorporation of said town, the sheriff made proclamation thereof according to law. Store license was issued to Daniel S. Norton and P. M. Weddle. Tavern license issued to Wm. Ayres, Seth Knowles, Richardson & Vore. S. W. Culberson was allowed 810 for defending Jacob Kyser, a criminal now in court."
Patrick Moore had 81 cases at this term upon the docket vs. John Green. Thus many bank cases make their appearance, and add greatly to law business in this county. Among others were the noted Owl Creek ones; Patrick Moore vs. James Smith, John Hawn, jr., Jonathan Miller et al.; the famous Luke Walpole case shows its head, and tl'e "Granville Alexandrian Society" brings suit vs. Enos, Farquhar et al. The first money made by process of law, for military purposes, was in the noted cases of C. Langworthy for use of George Downs vs. Alex. Enos and Samuel Kratzer. In which it was "ordered that in both these cases the
230 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
money be paid to Dr. Timothy Burr, the present Paymaster of this Regiment," &c.
The State case vs. Alex. McKee was disposed of by fining him $5 and costs; vs. Win. Henry by fine of $3 and costs; John Watt $3 and costs; George Lybarger $10 and costs. Assault and battery was coming to be regarded in a more serious light.
ANOTHER TOWN ON PAPER.
A new competitor for public favor springs into notice in September bearing the name of FLORIDA. It is a town laid out by Samuel Hardenbrok, Geo. Vennemon and Plum Sutliff, on the >< roads from Mansfield to Columbus, and from Mount Vernon to Upper Sandusky-on a handsome eminence surrounded with springs of elegant water and rich soil, convenient mill seats on the waters of Owl Creek and Whetstone. Of this as of another city it may truthfully be said-" Ilium fuit."
"10 TRIUMPHE -A NEW INSTITUTION ESTABLISHED.
Joseph Brown starts a distillery near Mount Vernon, and gives sixty-two and a half cents for every 56 lbs. of good clean rye delivered at the distillery, or at Capt. Douglas' mill; he also gives one gallon of whisky for every five pecks of good clean rye. Thus in October, 1817, did the second large manufactory of fire water go into operation.
THE MARRIAGES REGISTERED.
"On January 2d, 1817, by Rev. James Smith, Mr. John Dwyer to the amiable Miss Sally Martin, both of Mt. Vernon.
"On January 7th, by the same, Mr. Reasin Yates to the accomplished Miss Nancy Boalse, daughter of Capt. N. C. Boalse, both of this town.
231 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
"On Tuesday February 4th, by the same, Mr. Obadiah Tatman to Miss Peggy Severe.
"What joys they both receive and both bestow,
Virgins may guess but wives, experienced, know."
"On same day, by Rev. James Scott, Mr. David Newell, of' Richland county, to Miss Juliet Cooper of Knox.
"There seems no goose so gray, but soon or late
She finds some honest gander for her mate."
"On Saturday evening, 22d February, by Wm. Douglass, Esq., Mr. Elijah Webster to Miss Elizabeth, disconsolate widow of-- Mr.--- Ask, alias---alias---Simpkins.
"Married, April 10th, by Wm. Douglass, Esq., Mr. Isaac Hollister to Miss Hannah Kattle.
"A matchless pair-
Hers the Wild lustre of the rising morn,
And his the radiance of the risen day."
"Married, on May 15th, 1816, by Rev. James Smith, Mr. Alpheus Chapman to the amiable Miss Amy Ward.
"On May 7th, 1S17, by Rev. James Scott, Mr. Edward Marques to Miss Elizabeth Newell.
"On June 19th, by Rev. James Smith, Mr. Leonard Simon: to Miss Sally Boyles.
"On July 17th, by the same, Mr. Isaac Yore, jr., to Miss Poll Martin.
"On July 10th, by Rev. George Vennemon, Mr. Ensley D. Johnson to Miss Sarah Petton, near Lexington, Richland co.
"Love, friendship, honor, truth and pure delight,
Harmonious mingle in the nuptial rite.'
"On July 17th, by Rev. James Smith, Mr. Alexander McKee to Miss Tabitha Waddle.
"The following good play is made on occasion of the marriage of James Strong to Miss Sally Strong:
"It has been said in former times
Too sacred to be wrong;
The battle is not always won,
Or given to the STRONG.
Grant this assertion may be true,
As on the sacred page;
Who'll gain the battle, I will ask,
Where two that's STRONG ENGAGE ?"
232 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XVIII.
CONDITION OF THE COUNTRY IN 1818.
RUIN IMPENDING.--MUCH SUFFERING.--A FEW QUAINT ADVERTISEMENTS.--EFFORTS TO START A SASHATH-SCHOOL, AND TO SELL YOUNG LADIES I- HORSE-THIEVES AND COUNTERFEITERS ABOUND.--A JAIL-BIRD ESCAPES.--A CRIPPLE RUNS-HABEAS CORPUS TRIALS.-A GRAND CIRCULAR HUNT.
THE palmy periods of Knox county, prior to 1820, were from 1808 until 1812, and from 1815 until 1818. In the intermediate time there was much depression and suffering caused by the war of 1812; and from the beginning of the year 1818, there was another period of deep gloom and distress caused by the scarcity of money, failure of banks, &c. For several years there was but slight influx of population, but little addition to the wealth of this section. The productions of the country were almost valueless in exchange for money, and it was with difficulty that they could be bartered for goods at the stores. The unfortunate speculation in which many of the most substantial citizens engaged, under the name of the Owl Creek Bank; the depreciation of the paper money making up the principal circulation, and the general lack of confidence throughout the country in all kinds of business operations, prevented much improvement being made in Knox county. Many of the then
233 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
settlers became entirely discouraged and out of heart, pulled up stakes and returned to their old homes eastward, or sought better chances elsewhere in the new country. Almost all whom we have conversed with, say that the most dull and gloomy times they have witnessed since the last war with Great Britain, were between the years 1818 and 1825.
During this period we find numberless suits instituted, and judgments obtained, by "The Granyule Alexandrian Society," "The German Bank of Wooster," "The Owl Creek Bank," and other like institutions, against the Vores, and Farquhars, and Strongs, and Smiths, and Browns, and Martins, and Hawns, and Winships and others, of the older class of settlers. The mere mention of this fact, in connection with matter developed in our Owl Creek Bank history, will be sufficient upon this subject to convey an idea of the sad condition of affairs at that period. To other matters, then, we will revert.
And first, as to the other business disposed of by the Court in 1818. The Grand Jury, at the April term, found bills of indictment against fourteen persons. For affrays, the Court lined Wm. Wright $1, and costs; Wm. Herrod and Simon Anderson $3 each, and costs. At the July term, six bills were returned by the Grand Jury; and forfights, Sylvester Buxton and Daniel Baxter were each lined $3, and costs. Except Michael Harter, no new person makes application to keep tavern, and none to sell goods-the houses of Burr, Green & Co., and Moody and McCarty, being simply altera-
234 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
tions in style of firms. And for six years so few changes were made in these or other branches of business, that we desist from further detail of Court proceedings.
The legal termination of Clinton's existence is the only court matter left to be recorded on this page. The Court, on the 17th of April, heard the petition of Samuel H. Smith, Ichabod Marshal, Elihu S. Webster, Lathrop Shurtliff, John P. McArdle, Benjamin Barney and Richard Ayres, for vacation of a part of the town of Clinton, and granted the prayer. Shortly after this the Post-Office at Clinton is discontinued, and it rapidly goes into decline.
Miss Ann Davis is the second milliner advertised in Mount Vernon. "She is to be found at the house of James Smith, Esq., on Gay street; and will alter straw hats of old date to any fashion, and has straw on hand for a few hats."
As the people are becoming still more fashionable, another milliner makes her appearance-and she has the advantage over the others of being "Mantua-maker" and "Florist." Mary Lindsey is at the house of Benjamin Martin, corner of Vine and Market streets. March 18th, 1818, witnesses the opening out of the first "Man-tor-mentor," as the natives then pronounced the word in Mount Vernon.
Burr, Green & Co., having bought a stock of goods of Mr. Norton, in January, advertise that they will sell as low as formerly for Owl Greek paper, or approved country produce, but no credit given.
235 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
In April, 1818, a two-column address was published in favor of establishing a Sabbath School in Mount Vernon-arguing that "it would be much better for young men to instruct the children, instead of haunting the taverns from morning till night;" and saying that "a respectable company of young ladies in town intend to associate themselves together for the purpose of forming a Sabbath school."
James Smith issues an advertisement so characteristic of himself, and characteristic of the times, that we give it in his own words:
"New Goods for Sale.-James Smith has just received and offers for sale a general assortment of Merchandise. In the house of Mr. Gilman Bryant, he will sell low for CASH in hand, or country produce delivered, but no credit given. OWL Creek paper will he received at par; Granville, Wooster, New Lisbon, and Canton will be received at the present. Clerk's Office removed to this stand, and
YOUNG LADIES FOR SALE
at seventy-five cents each."
About the time the Owl Creek Bank was in its glory, sundry citizens of the northern part of Knox county and of Richland and Huron concluded to grow suddenly rich in like manner. Accordingly they met at Mansfield in September, 1816, and associated themselves as the Bank of Richland and Huron. Having consulted upon the subject, in October they put their schemes into articles, and Daniel Ayres, John Garrison, Winn Winship, Wm. Webster, Wm. B. James, Wilson IElliott, Matthew Kelly, Alexander McGaffick, Plum Sutliff, Samuel Williams, Wm. W. Cotgreave, Wm.
236 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Dean Mann, Geo. Veuneman, Jacob Ozenbaugh and Joseph Williams take stock, and act as Commissioners.
They got fairly to work in Owl Creek style, and gave through the paper frequent notices reading thus-
"Wilson Elliott, Cashier, notifies stockholders to pay ten per centum on the amount of stock subscribed, being the fourth installment, within 60 days. Also those who have been accommodated with loans, will be prepared to pay in 25 per cent. on the renewal of their notes"
The paper of the "Granville Alexandrian Society" had, about those times, a large circulation among our citizens, and as this institution has subsequently acquired almost as great notoriety as the Owl, we give a few lines of our history to its origin.
A number of the Granvillians having become desirous of handling money faster than the hard money allowed, associated themselves together in 1806 to make paper money. Among this number were Timothy Rose, Timothy Spelman, Elias Gilman, Samuel Thrall, Job Case, Samuel Rose, Samuel Bancroft, John Duke, Hiram Rose and Jeremiah R. Munson. On the third day of January, 1807, an act of incorporation was obtained, and the persons first named were constituted the first Board of Directors; and for many years this organization manufactured what they called money.
The country was filled with other worthless and irresponsible bank paper, and a great deal of that counterfeit, too. "Shinplasters," as now termed, were manufactured wherever type and printing-ink could be got. We have one of the kind made
237 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
at the Register office in Mount Vernon, by McArdle, to fill an order from a stranger named Isaao Foster. They were printed on common letter paper. Two quires of eighty-seven and a half cents and two quires of seventy-five cents were issued.
Mr. A. Liggett, Teller of the Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank of Pittsburgh, wrote to L. S. Silliman, Cashier of the Owl Creek Bank:
"There is no doubt but the person getting the checks you mention printed is doing so without the knowledge of Mr. Ross, for the purpose of defrauding the public. If you can, without any trouble, put a stop to it, be good enough to do so."
McArdle had printed them the 7th of December, and it was not until January that the Cashier had been heard from. ' Excitement ran high "on change," and with those who had taken these change tickets. Those were terrible times on Owl Creek!
Just before this occurrence, the men of commerce had been greatly alarmed by counterfeit silver dollars being put in circulation in the county, and in preference paper had assumed a prominence in the public estimation.
A man named Daniel Wolgamott was arrested, and lodged in the jail of the county, for attempting to pass twelve base and counterfeit dollars, purporting to be silver. And Robert Walker was arrested for having attempted to pass one counterfeit dollar. A warrant was also issued for one William Coffran, for being concerned in making and passing counterfeit dollars, purporting to be silver, founded on an affidavit of the prisoner, Wolgamott. Coffran was a shoemaker by trade, and, notwithstanding
238 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
he was quite lame, made his escape. The community believed him guilty.
Wolgamott, or Vulgamott, as Sheriff Shaw called him, remained in his lodgings (the jail) about a month, when, between dark and daylight one night, he "left his bed and board;" and the Sheriff offered $45 reward for the capture of a" man six feet high, dark complexion, dark hair, and has a downcast look "-but all in vain; the place that had known him shall know him no more forever!
Horse-thieves abounded more in Knox county at this time than at any other period of its history. Scarcely a day passed without an account of some new depredation. Among the number were two fine mares stolen from the stable of Elijah Adams, in Morris township, for which he offered $40 reward; also a reward for the thief, "who no doubt belongs to the gang of thieves who have so long labored in their vocation of taking away horses from their honest owners without leave, and passing counterfeit money through this State."
Two shoemakers by trade, who passed by the names of Richie and Ryan, alias Austin and Scott, were of this gang; and also one John Crawford, who was caught with a horse stolen from Fairfield county, tried, and sentenced to six years imprisonment in the Penitentiary. A horse-thief was followed till near Hanary's Block-house; but by leaving the horse, rode down and made good his escape. Another horse-thief, followed beyond Radnor, left a horse dead in the road from hard driving. It was the custom then for men to make common cause, and hunt for each other's horses as
239 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
soon as they heard of a theft being committed; for no one knew then but what it would be his turn to suffer next. Anti-horse-stealing associations were got up, and neighbors sympathized with each other, upon the principle that "a fellow-feeling makes us wondrous kind."
HABEAS CORPUS.
The first writ of habeas corpus was allowed "by the Honorable John H. Mefford, Esq.," April 26th, 1819. John Shaw, Sheriff, brought into the Courthouse the body of Amos Yarnall, with the mittimus, showing the cause of his caption and detention. Sam'l. Mott, Esq., appeared as his attorney, and on his motion, after the attorney for the State had duly considered the matters in law arising, thc Court let him to bail in the sum of $50. James Smith his security.
The second case, that of Wm. Knight, who, on the 8th of July, 1819, was brought to the Courthouse, and by Judge Mefford admitted to bail in the sum of $50; Alexander Elliott becoming his bondsman.
The third case occurred April 3d, 1820, when Judge Joseph Brown set at large Abel Fowler, upon Artemas Estabrook and Alfred Manning becoming his security for his appearance at the May term of Knox Common Pleas, in the sum of $50.
In this year an interesting case was presented in allowance of a writ, on the 20th of November, by Judge Brown, requiring John Bird and Judah Bird to bring into Court the body of an Indian child, daughter of Rachel Conkapote, deceased, by
240 - HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
her husband, Elisha Conkapote, both Indians of the Stockbridge tribe. Judges Young and Chapman also appeared, and the whole Court lent itself to an impartial examination of the case, which resulted in their leaving the little Indian in the bands of the Birds, John and Judah. This little Indian was daughter of the squaw killed, as related in chapter xxi.
This was perhaps the most interesting case heard upon writ of this character, until the great military case of Col. Warden, which was tried upon writ issued in name of the State vs. Wm. E. Davidson.
"By Judge James Elliot, September 27th, 1837. "
"W. E. Davidson, Provost Marshal of the 2d Brigade, 3d Division, Ohio Militia (late 4th Brigade, 7th Division, O. M.), in pursuance of an order by Brigadier-General Wm. Bevans (commander of said Brigade), and upon action of a Court Martial, now in session in Mt. Vernon, convened by order of Said Gen. Wm. Bevans, on Monday, Sept. 25th, 1837. Col. H. W. Strong, President of Board. Discharged by said James Elliott, Judge, &c."
Another case, of much interest, at a still later period, was about the two dwarfs-of Porter's wife held, it was claimed, illegally by Warner. Upon hearing, however, the Court did not think so, and they remained in custody of the showman, at last accounts.
The writ of habeas corpus became a favorite resort in liquor cases, where parties were, as they thought, unjustly persecuted and cast into prison, by fines imposed upon temperance principles. During the administration of his Honor Judge Bevans, more writs of habeas corpus were granted than in
241 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
all the rest of our history put together. To such an extent was it carried, that he acquired the sobriquet of Old Habeas Corpus. The venerable Judge always leaned towards the side of suffering humanity. If he erred in judgment, it was because no work upon the subject had been published at that date. Our townsman, ,Judge Hurd's work on Habeas Corpus, did not get into prilit until the year 1858.
SPORTS AND CIRCULAR HUNTS.
From the earliest period in our history, hunting, horse-racing, and athletic sports, were freely indulged in by our people. Many, very many of these festive occasions have been lost sight of or entirely for gotten by the great majority of those now living, who in these later days have become wholly absorbed in money-making pursuits, and have ceased to think that man was made to rejoice as well as to mourn. Our Owl Creek settlers, the old pioneers, bless their memories, believed that there is a tune for all things, and that sports of the turf, circular hunts, etc., were not interdicted. In truth, we are constrained to say that very many of the old set believed in such sports all the time.
A grand circular hunt came off in 1818, wherein tire natives of Knox and Coshocton vied with each other for the mastery. At an early hour of the day appointed for the frolic, the people commenced gathering in on the lower part of Owl Creek; and when the companies were formed under their captains, more than 1500 people were present. The drive was from our county towards the town of
242 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Coshocton, and when finally the ring was drawn in, from 300 to 500 deer and many wolves were bagged. It was a glorious day that-remembered with pride by all who participated in it. Our old friend Joe Hull, of Monroe, was one of the captains, and it can well be imagined that he enjoyed it hugely.
243 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XIX.
HISTORY OF THE PRESS IN KNOX COUNTY,
THE OHIO REGISTER--THE AURORA--STANDARD--ADVERTISER-WATCH. MAN--GAZETTE--DAY- BOOK-BANNER--TRUE WHIG-TIMES.--THE VARIOUS DAILY AND WEEELY PAPERS, RELIGIOUS, AND POLITICAL PUBLICATIONS, AND SOME ACCOUNT OF THE EDITORS AND THEIR ADVENTURES.
In July, 1813, a press was pat up in Clinton, and the first newspaper ever issued in Knox county then made its appearance, styled The Ohio Register, printed and published every Tuesday by Smith and McArdle. Samuel R. Smith was the proprietor of the town of Clinton, and he induced John P. McArdle, who was a good practical printer, to engage with him in the publication of a newspaper, and in the printing business generally, at that place. McArdle emigrated from Ireland, March 17th, 1801, and came to this county in 1809. He is now living, in his 78th year, at Fremont, in this State. Smith, as elsewhere stated, is alive, and surveying in Texas.
The waning fortunes of Clinton, and the rising greatness of Mount Vernon, caused the office, after two years of tribulation, to be transferred to the latter place, and accordingly, on the 24th of April, 1816, the first paper ever issued in Mount Vernon made its appearance, bearing the name of "The Ohio Register," and having the laudable motto..-
244 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
"Aware that what is base no polish can make sterling." It was the prolongation of The Ohio Register, published for two years at Clinton by Sam'l H. Smith and John P. McArdle.
From the Editor's "Address to his Patrons," we extract the following :
"On moving the office and establishment of The Ohio Register to this place, it will be expected the editor (according to custom) will say something to his patrons.
"The editor, well aware of the difficulties attending the task he has undertaken, to instruct, enlighten and please the public must not only produce that which is excellent in its kind, but he must continually vary the matter and manner of his lucubrations ; he must, to a certain degree, be all things to all men. The serious, the gay, the learned and the unlearned, not only expect that their tastes will be studied and their inclination gratified, but the same individual becomes dissatisfied with a long course of the same species of entertainment ; he hopes to he delighted and surprised ; he must find productions which are meant to be instructive, and novelty in those which are designed for amusement. I-low the editor will execute the duties of his employment, time will discover ; he is not disposed to boast of his education, to make a parade of his abilities, or to seduce the public with a multiplicity of specious promises. It is too common for editors of newspapers to undertake more than they are able to perform.
"The editor is determined not to subject himself to accusations of the nature above-mentioned ; and although he feels a considerable degree of diffidence, he would have it fully understood that he expects and desires to be judged by his work. One thing however he confidently promises, the most assiduous and persevering industry will he exerted to render his paper worthy of the patronage which he hopes he will meet with.
* * * * * *
"Finally, the Ohio Register shall not be a receptacle for party politics, or personal abuse. On those principles the publication of the Register is commenced in this town, and the editor hopes that he will receive that share of patronage which will enable him to continue it,
* * * * *
KNOX COUNTY 245
"Terms: The Ohio Register will be published every Wednesday, and will be distributed to subscribers in Mount Vernon and Clinton, and forwarded to those at a distance by the first opportunity, at $2.00 per annum if paid in advance, or $2.50 if paid within the first six months, or S3.00 if paid within the second six months.
"Those who receive their papers by post, are to pay the postage. No subscription received for less than one year, and no paper discontinued until all arrearages are paid. A failure to give notice of discontinuance of a subscription, at or previous to the end of the time subscribed for, will always be considered as a new engagement."
The following good rule in regard to advertisements was set forth " The COST must accompany all advertisements, otherwise they will be continued at the expense of the advertiser until paid for."
In those early times there were many who courted the muses, and among their effusions we find a lengthy piece which appeared May 1st, 1816, and we have heard it ascribed to John H. Mefford. Me extract a few verses descriptive of "Mount Vernon walk" and " Owl Creek's fertile banks," gratified, that as Shakespeare has it-
"the poets eye in a fine frenzy rolling,"
prophetically told in that. early day, how
"For lovely nymph and gentle swain,
Its gentle stream shall long remain
A pleasing prospect for the view !''
And though fools wisdom's lovely ways
For want of sense, hate all their days,
May all MOUNT VERNON walk errect
In all the paths she may direct.
Then shall not wars furious guns
Bereave parents of faithful Sons;
The cries of children we'll not hear
Whose fathers left them arms to bear;
246 HISTORY OF
Nor shall a true and loving wife
Mourn for losing a husbands life,
Who fell a victim to wars rage
Before he passed the middle age.
A fair damsel shall not complain
For a true sweetheart in war slain;
Nor citizens for faithful friends weep
Who gave life their country to keep;
But fields shall bear, and we be blest
With crops the choicest and the best;
And gentle cows shall come at will
Our pails with richest milk to fill.
Our barns shall be filled with plenty,
And Springs emit water gently,
Which shall in small clear currents flow,
To refresh man, or panting roe.
Abundance shall our tables spread,
And servants never long for bread;
But look up satisfy'd, and say,
"Lawful commands we will obey."
Then long shall Owl creek's fertile banks
Be a peaceful walk for all ranks,
Where the sycamore tall does grow,
And where the elm its shade doth show.
For lovely nymph and gen'rous swain,
Its gentle stream shall long remain
A pleasing prospect for the view;
Where songs of birds are ever new.
On the 15th of October, 1817, the first six months of the second volume of the Ohio Register having been completed, the editor calls upon subscribers to pay up old scores-
"For without this one thing necessary, it is impossible to expect that we can live; money would be preferable, but if that is scarce with you, rags, wheat, rye, corn, and almost all kinds of market produce will be taken in payment."
247 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
On the 5th of November he proposes to "take for subscription, advertisements, hand-bills or bookbinding, wheat, rye, corn, buckwheat, &c., delivered at Davis' mill in this town, in preference to some unchartered paper." (A sly dig this at the Owl Creek Bank, Mr. McArdle.) On the 8th of April, 1818, he says-
"Peaceably if we can, forcibly if we must." HARD TIMES!! So they are, but that is not my fault.-The next number of the Ohio Register will complete the 2d volume that has been printed in Mount Vernon. From many of our subscribers we have received nothing but promises for services rendered. But these will not always answer the purpose. Like the notes of some of our banks, they soon depreciate when thrown into market, unless it is known they are bottomed upon a specie capital; and like them "they will not pay debts abroad." But to be brief, "we want money and must have it." Remember the trite old saying. "the laborer is worthy of his hire." As soon as this volume is out we intend altering the paper into a different form. As we expect on a large quantity of paper in the course of two or three weeks, (for which we must pay the cash) we hope those in arrears will call immediately and settle their respective accounts."
On the 15th of April, A. D., 1818, Vol. 2, No. 52, was issued. Those who were in arrears and so often and politely requested to call and settle did not do so; the large quantity of paper could not be paid for in cash, and John P. McArdle goes down under the debt of unrequited kindness-unrecompensed services. And the people of Mount Vernon, for a time, were without a newspaper because there were not enough among them having the high sense of honor to "pay the printer !"
From this period until 1844, there was no paper published uninterruptedly as long as the Ohio Re-
248 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
gister. Various new papers were started, and the editors became dissatisfied, the publishers discouraged, and, after a little experimenting with journalism, went to some more profitable business, engaged in some new enterprise, or left the country. And we regret to say that the people seemed to lave no proper appreciation of their journals, for there is not in existence a complete file of any of the old papers, and in fact scarcely a number of either to be found.
During this time the ablest men who were connected with the press, and the most violent in opposition to each other, were Charles Colerick and William Bevans. They were arrayed against each other as candidates for office, and each for several terms held the position of Sheriff of the county. Both were from Western Pennsylvania-Bevans from Fayette, and Colerick from Washington county-and well skilled in the political wire-working and maneuvering for which the politicians of that county have ever been famous. In the division of parties, the former was for Adams and the latter for Jackson. The great bone of contention, however, was the county printing, and that might with much truth be said to have been the only principle at issue between them.
About 1822, Charles Colerick with his brothers, John and Henry, made their appearance in this county, while Bevans was Sheriff, and they set about establishing a small printing-office. In 1824 Edson Harkness, a printer, surveyor and schoolteacher, emigrated from "Down East" to Mount Vernon; and in 1825 he started a very small news-
249 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
paper, which he styled The Western Aurora, and, after publishing it two years, he sold out, in 1827, to James Harvey Patterson, from Fayette county, Pa., and William Smith, from Washington county, Pa., who, under the firm of Patterson & Co., continued its p~ib1ication until 1829, when they transferred the establishment to William Bevans, who carried it on until 1831, when he disposed of it to Wm. P. Reznor, who had learnt his trade in the office and lived with Bevans. In 1832, C. P. Bronson became associated with him, and for a time the paper was published by Bronson & Reznor, until, in October, 1833, Dan Stone buys out the office and carries the paper on a few months alone; and then Dr. Morgan L. Bliss is associated with him, and it continues, under the style of Stone & Bliss, until November 29th, 1834, on account of severe and protracted illness, the latter withdraws, and Dr. Lewis Dyer, in a salutatory of two mortal columns, enters the list as editor, as a permanent business; but in January, 1835, he disappears, and Dr. John Thomas succeeds him, who, being like his immediate predecessor, of a philosophical turn of mind and inclined to treat upon physiology, hygiene, temperance and the laws of health, found the age unsuited for moral reform, and, seized by one of his fits of "azure devils," suddenly abdicated the tripod, leaving Dan Stone alone in his glory, who continued "solitary and alone" until May 16th, when he too published his valedictory, and the paper fell into anonymous hands ; and it bad thenceforth a very short and precarious existence, and has passed from memory forever.
250 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
The first name of the paper published by this press was the Western. Aurora-the last name was the Mount Vernon Gazette. This office was first set in operation at a small frame house where Dr. Thompson's residence now stands, on lot No. 113, Main street; subsequently it was on the lot where General Jones now resides, on the west side of the Public Square, Mount Vernon, and from thence was moved into the second story of the Market-House, where Mefford's saddler silop now is. Among the hands who worked in it were John Borland, now of Hocking county, Patterson. Reznor, and Wm. Crosby. Elliott C. Yore was the carrier-boy in 1825-6, and Lewis Lindsay in 1827-8.About these times the rhymester of this office was Dan Jewett, a brother of Cynthia, wife of Ira Babcock. He wrote the Carrier's Address of the year1828, and, as the first verse is worthy of consideration in these times of disunion, we give it for consideration
"Ye lovers of Freedom, I pray yell attend,
And listen awhile to the post-boy, your friend;
Lay aside all disunion, United let's stand,
The friends and supporters of our happy land."
One of the political songs of that time will occur to the mind of our old settlers by the first line:
"Jackson fought Duff Green like--."
Another will be remembered by suggesting the chorus:
"O, Johnny Q.. my Jo John, since last I wrote you,
I have been disappointed, John and I s'pose you know."
251 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
In 1838 a new office was established here, and a paper called the Western Watchman published by Samuel M. Browning, and for a few months John Teesdale was connected with this paper as editor, and had bargained for the establishment; but being a philanthropic Englishman, happening to insert an abolition article, he found it advisable to leave and never complied with his engagement as to paying for it. In 1839, October, the paper was published by S. Dewey & Co. but for a very short time. And a new candidate for public favor called the Family Cabinet was published for a few weeks, and then compelled to give up the ghost "under the pressure of existing circumstances." And thus we have traced the one side up to 1840, now let us retrace our steps and bring down the other.
The Colericks, as heretofore stated, had come from Washington, Pa., where their father had a printing office at a very early day, and they had been brought up to the business. No copies of their papers are extant. They were intelligent and energetic men and labored under great disadvantages for many years, as did other newspaper men in this county.
In 1827 their paper was called The Democrat and Knox Advertiser.
The early carriers for their paper were Ignatius Colerick, their nephew, and Henry Estabrook.
In March, 1831, Samuel Rohrer purchased the office and published the paper.
In October, 1832, F. S. & P. B. Ankeny became proprietors, and enlarged its size and name--Mount Vernon Democrat and Knox Advertiser.
252 HISTORY OF
The name was changed the next year to Looking Glass and Whig Reflector, and in the campaign of 1831, between Cols. Peres Sprague and James McFarland, it was very bitter against the former, who ran on the Independent ticket, as may be judged from the following chorus, which we extract from a song of the times as showing the acerbity of the contest:
"Yankee Doodle, Sprague's the boy,
Yankee Doodle dandy;
He plays a good hand at cards
And loves a good glass of brandy."
The people did not regard these vices as disqualifying Sprague for office, for he received, for Representative, 1,518 votes to 1,289 for his opponent!
This printing office was also migratory in its disposition, having been during its existence on Mulberry street, on the lot where H. W. Ball now lives, on the old' Jeffres lot where Barnes' marble factory is, and in the second story of the frame where Robert Irvine's shoe store now is, on Main street.
In June, 1835, Charles Colerick established The Day Book, which was conducted by him with much energy and spirit until he volunteered as a soldier and went to Texas, when the office was bought by Delano and Browning, and the paper continued by William Byers until in the winter of 1837-8 it was transferred to S. M. Browning.
When the campaign of 1840 opened, the Whigs having become dissatisfied with the abolition article of John Teesdale and caused him to give up the publication of that paper, found it necessary to pass
253 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
resolutions in their county convention inviting Whig editors to view this location, and appointed a committee, of which Johnston Elliott was chairman, to advertise in the leading Whig journals in the State for some one to come on and publish a paper. Under this call James Emmet Wilson, a son of Judge James Wilson, of Steubenville, came and started the Knox County Republican, and in about six months associated with himself as publisher Milo Butler, his brother-in-law. He was a poor stick; and this paper which started under the most favorable auspices in the triumphant campaign of 1840, in the fall of 1841 was discontinued by reason of the inertness and inability of the said Wilson and Butler to give the patrons a "live Whig paper," and because they were too much of the Teesdalian order.---- A hiatus ensued-Wilson and Butler went to preaching. And in 1842 Wm. H. Cochran, who was teaching school in Newark, came up and chartered the office and issued The Times; and from that office has been continued a paper, under different names and editors and proprietors, until the present day-the Mount Vernon Republican brings up the list.
This paper has been known to its readers as The Times--The Republican Times--The Ohio State Times, etc., as conducted by Cochran and Silmon Clark; G. E. Winters, J. H. Knox, O. B. Chapman, Witherow, J. W. Shuckers, the Republican joint stock company, and H. M. Ramsey. At present it is under the editorial management of W. C. Cooper, Esq. Other names may have been omitted who, for short periods, edited the paper.
254 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
After the Day Book office had been bought up and merged in The Western Watchman, an effort was made to establish another paper; and The Democratic Banner was started in April, 1838, by Chauncey Basset and - Robb. During the summer it was edited by C. J. McNulty; but upon its sale to Edmund J. Ellis, it was continued without an editor in 1839, and, until it was sold to John Kershaw, in 1841, it was issued without an editorial, except as some partisan, able to write, would furnish it an article gratis. Kershaw edited and published it until, in June, 1844, he sold it back to E. J. Ellis, and then it was edited by U. W. Morgan, until, in 1845, it was sold to D. A. Robertson, who after a short time resold it to Ellis, who continued its publication until its sale, in November, 1847, to William Dunbar, who had associated with him in its publication for some six months George W. Armstrong; and for the remainder of his time edited and published it himself, until, in December, 1853, he sold it to Leckey Harper, then of the Pittsburg Post, who has since edited and published it. During Mr. Dunbar's management, a daily Democratic Banner was published in the winter of 1852 for thirty days.
Upon the nomination of General Taylor for President, in 1848, the editor of the Times refused to support the Taylor and Fillmore ticket, because Zachary Taylor lived South and owned slaves; whereupon another printing-office was brought to Mount Vernon that should advocate Union principles, and, to distinguish it from the bogus article, it was styled The Mount Vernon True Whig, and
255 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
was published for seven years-edited during the campaign of 1848 by Joseph S. Davis, Esq.; in 1849 by John W. White, and the remainder of its existence by A. Banning Norton. With the exception of a brief period, when it was published by Higgins and White, the foreman of the office was that excellent printer, George Smith, now in the Keokuk (Iowa) Daily Gate City.
For three years Norton's Daily True Whig was published with the motto of Davy Crocket-"Be sure you're right, then go ahead;" and having become satisfied in that time that this place would not sustain a daily, unless out of the pocket of the publisher, and hence that it was not "right" to continue it, in March, 1855, its diurnal appearance ceased.
The motto of the True Whig was taken from Washington's Farewell Address, and would in these times be somewhat original: -" Frown indignantly upon the first dawning of every attempt to alienate any portion of our country from the rest, or to enfeeble the sacred ties which now link together its various parts." It was adopted as expressive of the determination to stand by the Constitution and the Union, and to oppose abolitionism and sectionalism of every form and description.
Several short lived newspapers have made their appearance in the county within the past eight years, which, by being named, may be kept fresh in the memories of some of the people. They were the Rainbow, which was of the nature of the "Nashville, Bowling Green, Louisville Courier" of these war times-migratory in disposition, and altogether
256 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
fleeting. It was opened out at Mount Vernon by Rev. A. Laubach, sojourned a. while at Fredericktown where the Reverend editor was sold by a vile acrostic; then tarried a brief space at Belville, and the last heard of was among the Senecas, at the city of Tiffin! The Lilly, which advocated short frocks and emigrated to the far west with Amelia Bloomer-the Universalist Advocate at Centerburg, which Daniel Wolfe found must proclaim glad tidings to all people without price, or not at all, and The Western Home Visitor, which was too large for Mount Vernon and could not find a home at Columbus. After these came The National, when its publishers Agnew & Ragnet, found it without a nationality, and after three months search in the exciting times of 1858 it gave up the ghost! The Knox County Express was started by Agnew & Tilton, in December, 1860, and is now published by C. M. Phelps & Co., and edited by Judge J. S. Davis.
The Banner, Republican and Express are the papers published in Mount Vernon in July, 1862, and The Western Episcopalian at Gambier, in this county. The Episcopalian is devoted to the interests of the Church, and of Kenyon College more particularly. It was first started as The Gambier Observer, upon the Acland Press, at Gambier, in 1827, and has been continued from that time to the present under different editorial and financial managers. George W. Meyers was for many years its publisher, and its present publisher is R. M. Edmonds. It has been ably edited by Dr. Sparrow, Dr. Wing, Dr. Muenseher, Dr. Colton, the Rev.
257 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Norman Badger, and George Denison, and has been favored with many very able articles from the pens of professors of the college and other friends.
The first book printed in Knox county was "The American Revolution," written in scriptural, or ancient historical style-"Honi soi qui mal y' pense." Clinton, Ohio. Printed by Smith & McArdle at the office of The Ohio Register. Year of our Lord, 1815." 170 pp. And the second was "The Columbiad, a poemm on the American War, in 13 cantoes, by Richard Snowden." pp. 38. The next was James Smith's Vindication."
There was also published at The Ohio Register office "A caveat against the Methodists, by a Gentleman of' the Church of Rome." I have not sent these Prophets, yet they ran ; I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.-Jeremiah, chap. 23, verse 21.
C. & J. Colerick published a directory of Knox county, compiled from the tax list, amid showing the value of every man in the county as listed for taxation.
In 1835 the Laws and Ordinances of Mount Vernon were printed by the Day Book office and bound. And in 1832 the Charter and Ordinances of Mount Vernon were printed at the True Whig office and bound, making a work of 50 pages.
"An Essay on Justification by Faith, with particular reference to the Theory of Forensic Justification, by Joseph Muenseher, A.M., Rector of St. Paul's Church, Mount Vernon, 1847." pp. 63
In 1858, John W. White published George Sey-
258 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
mour, or Disappointed Revengea drama in 3 acts. 88 pp. And the Book of Chronicles, humorously illustrated, being a history of the dissensions among the harmonious democracy of Knox upon the Kansas question, written by Telegraphic Inspiration pp.32.
From the Acland Press a number of pamphlets and small works have been issued pertaining to Church and College affairs. Among others, Tissue's Greek Forms, a very valuable book, by one of the Professors.
The Rev. Dr. Muenseher has now in press .. A Commentary on the book of Proverbs," which will make about 400 pp. duodecimo; and "A Treatise on Biblical Interpretation," 350 pp. duodecimo. We have seen a portion of the proof sheets of each- they are neatly executed, and from the acknowledged ability and learning of the author will be of much value.
Our young friend Charles H. Scribner, Esq.. has prepared for the press an excellent Treatise on Dower-which will be a Law book of much size. and of very great value to the legal profession and the public generally.
The pioneers of the press in this county, who, a half century ago, spread the first information before the people in the columns of a paper, are both living, having passed the "three score years and ten allotted to man" - McArdle being almost a score over the time, and Smith over a century old. They are still hale and hearty, while the younger brothers of the press have not become "fat and forty ;" and those who immediately succeeded them,
259 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
have almost all passed to "that bourne from whence no traveler returns." Of the editors-Col. Charles Colerick, after having served a tour in the Texan revolution, and assisted in achieving, though he did not live to behold the recognition of her independence, is dead. Gen. William Bevans, after having served his fellow-citizens creditably in many official positions, has departed. Dan Stone, a quiet, unassuming man of much goodness of heart, died in this town, where his widow and two sons survive. Dr. M. L. Bliss died shortly after he left the paper. James Harvey Patterson moved to West Union, Adams county, and, after the death of his wife, went South. John Thomas was a very singular genius, well read, particularly in anatomy, geology, conchology, and herpetology et als ologies, but was so much subject to the blues, or what he called "azure devils," as not to enjoy life; he would not drink out of a cup or saucer that had a flaw or crack in it, nor eat with a knife that line did not see scoured bright-consequently he worried himself out of the world before his time. W. H. Cochran and H. M. Ramsey died with the editorial harness on--the latter this spring--both much lamented by a large circle of friends, and their widows reside in Mount Vernon. S. M. Browning died at Burlington, Lawrence county, about 1852. Dr. Dyer resides in Iowa, Reznor in Illinois; Harkness also is in Illinois, where he is noted for his large nurseries of excellent fruit trees; Kershaw is an attorney in Philadelphia, Pa.; Morgan is a Brigadier General, with the army in Tennessee; Bronson is in Boston, Mass., making blood-food for curing
260 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
consumptives; Robertson, after having served as U.S. Marshal for Minnesota, settled down there in the practice of the law; McNulty, the only editor of the county sued for libel, from whom Elder Power recovered a large verdict, after having volunteered as a soldier in the Mexican war, died and was buried at Helena, Ark., by his brave comrades. Ellis had better have been dead than to have become a traitor to his country, and been driven beyond the lines. He was publishing the Boone County Standard, at Columbia, Mo., when he sinned against light and knowledge. Three of the old set-Smith of the Clinton Register, Smith of the Western Aurora, and Norton of the True Whig-a few years ago found themselves residing in the same district in Texas. Two of them yet remain there, while the third is writing these lines, having, from love for the Constitution and the Union, found it necessary to seek once again the shores of Owl Creek. Such are life's changes.
261 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XX.
EVENTS FROM 1820 TO 1830.
WHITE MALE INHABITANTS AND VOTERS AT VARIOUS ELECTIONS WITHIN THIS TIME.--SOME ACCOUNT OF THE FINANCES AND REVENUE. THE LAST OF THE INDIAN.-A WARNING.--THE OLD COURT-HOUSE FALLS, AND A NEW ONE IS PROJECTED.--OTHER OCCURRENCES.
THE white male inhabitants of Knox county above the age of 21 in 1820, were 1290, located as follows: Hillier 21, Bloomfield 69, Morgan 152, Miller 72, Jackson 178, Chester 122, Wayne 168, Morris 157, Union 144, and Clinton 207.
The county gave its vote for Ethan Allen Brown for Governor; John Sloane for Congress; Wm. Gass for Senator; R. D. Simons for Representative; Wm. Bevans for Sheriff; Abner Ayres for Commissioner, and E. G. Lee for Coroner.
Among the orders issued by the county, June 6th, 1820, were-
No. 3928. Paying Moody & M'Carty for articles furnished Overseers of the Poor for the squaw that was shot $2.84 4
" 3929. Hosmer Curtis and Mott for expenses incurred for the sick squaw $1.00
" 3930. Jacob Martin, making coffin for squaw. . $6.00
This, in the Indian line, is among the last known in the county. This squaw was of the Stockbridge tribe, and one of a small party who, in traveling
262 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
out of Licking county, was espied and shot by Hughes, when near Homer, and in Morgan township. Without provocation or just cause, but simply to gratify his private hatred of the Indian race, she was shot through the hip. Her comrades brought her on to Mount Vernon, where her sufferings became too great to admit of her being taken further. She was put in the old log gunsmith shop of John Earnhart, on High street, but the quarters being uncomfortable on account of cold November weather, she was moved to an old log house on the north-west corner of Mulberry and Vine streets, and there died. True to the Indian stoicism she never groaned or complained, although her sufferings were intense. Five or six of her tribe staid through her sickness, and then buried her in the north-east corner of the old graveyard. For several years afterwards her husband would return at the time of year when she died to view her grave and see that the body remained undisturbed .
From this same old log house, in October, 1826, a gun was fired which caused the death of Ben. Roberts. George Low then lived in the house, and Jim Low was staying with him, when on Hallow Eve night, several of the town boys were out throwing cabbages against the doors, as has from time immemorial been the custom, and as they threw against Low's door, Jim took down his rifle and fired between the logs, the ball lodging in Ben's leg. He was carried home, and, after laying for some time, it became necessary to amputate the leg, which was done one Sunday, and the next
263 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
afternoon at 4 o'clock he died. Low was tried, and Sam Mott defended him, and he was acquitted. This shooting affair caused very great excitement, and ever since, on the annual return of Hallow Eve the old settlers rehearse this story to their children and grandchildren, as a warning against following this ridiculous custom of throwing cabbage heads to the annoyance of quiet people.
In 1822, the county gave majorities for Daniel S. Norton for Congress ; H. Curtis for Representative: Wm. Bevans for Sheriff; John Kerr for Commissioner ; XV. Y. Farquhar for Auditor, James McGibeny for Coroner
In 1824 majorities were given for Jeremiah Morrow for Governor; Wilson for Congress ; Colerick for Sherrif, Stilley for Commissioner; Rigdon for Representative ; Runyan for Coroner, and Farquhar for Auditor.
In October, 1825, the jail built by Solomon Geller is found according to contract, except "he is yet to put in a stove, and the door above going into rue debtors' apartment."
In 1826, the whole number of votes cast was 1828 and the county gave majorities for Trimble for Governor ; Norton for Congress ; Robeson for Representative ; Colerick for Sheriff; Runyan for Coroner; Elliott for Auditor; Leonard for Commissioner
At the, June session, 1826, of the Commissioners, upon petition of Francis Wilkins and others, a road was ordered to be opened up Dry Creek, beginning on the farm of Daniel S. Norton, to intersect the old road on the corner of Frederick Carey's
264 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
orchard. Jonathan Miller, R. D. Simons and James McGibeny were appointed viewers, and J. W. Warden, surveyor.
On the 30th of September, the county jail is received in full satisfaction by the Commissioners. Wm. Bevans was allowed ~3 for crying sale of the jail.
VALUATION OF KNOX COUNTY IN 1826.
Land, 301,695 acres, valued at ....................................$716,070
Town property .......................................................... 81,362
Mercantile capital ........................................................ 60,000
Houses ....................................................................... 26,340
Horses, 2467 ................................................................. 98,680
Cattle, 4483 .................................................................. 35,864
Total........................................... $1,018,376
At this time Mount Vernon is stated as containing 80 dwelling-houses, one printing office, a brick court-house and jail, a merchant mill, a saw mill. a cotton factory, and within six miles, 9 grist and saw mills and three carding machines.
In 1827, Patterson and Smith, of The Western Aurora, published the Delinquent List for the ordinary price, and refunded one-fourth of the whole amount for county use.
In 1827, March 29, W. Y. Farquhar was "appointed keeper of the Knox county standard and half bushel measure, and authorized to get a half bushel of copper!"
Martin Tracy then gave bond as county Auditor. with John Troutman, Solomon and Paul Welker as securities.
265 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
At the June Term it was ordered that the Auditor cause two blank books for county orders to be procured, and that C. & J. Colerick print the same, and that the Auditor furnish six quires of paper for that purpose.
At the December Term, H. B. Curtis' account for office rent and wood is allowed-office rent, 7 months, $84 ; and wood 3 winters for Recorders office, $15.
OLD THINGS SHALL BE DONE AWAY WITH AND ALL BECOME NEW.
October 18th, 1828, James McGibeny contracted with the commissioners to build a stone wall to support the Court-house bank, standing ten feet north and south of the Court-house.
But all efforts to save it were unavailing it had been written, "Carthago detenda est;" and on the 2d of December an order issued to B. S. Brown for $40, in consequence of the loss of his office by the fall of the Court-house.
The Court-house was no sooner down than the commissioners ordered proposals to be published in the Standard and Advertiser, for the purpose of making donations for the building of a new Courthouse, and for a plan of building, &c. On the 20th of January, 1829, they agreed with Thomas Irvine for his brick house for a court-house, at $25 per term, in orders on the county treasury. In April, James Smith is notified by Marvin Tracy that the commissioners have obtained Thomas Irvine's bar-room for an office. The levy for taxes in Knox county, June, 1829, was 1 and 1/2 mills on the
266 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
dollar, on the whole valuation of property in said county, for State purposes, and 1 1/2 for canal purposes, making 3 mills upon the dollar for State and canal purposes ; and the commissioners, by and with the consent of the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas, levied a tax of 3 mills on the dollar for county purposes, 1 mill for road purposes, and 3/4 of a mill for school purposes ; one of the three mills shall be assessed and collected and appropriated for the building of the Court-house, and for no other purpose whatever.
At the June session, the following entry is made "The account of James Smith, presented to the Board of Commissioners, for one year, from June 1st, 1828, to June 1st, 1829, including the rent unpaid at last settlement, books and stationery for clerk's office, all of which was rejected by the Board. The charges for one year's fire-wood, which was $12. From which decision the said Smith prays an appeal to the Court of Common Pleas as to the fire-wood." That record is clear, is it not? The resolutions of the commissioners, published in the Standard and Advertiser, in reference to the building of a Court-house, represent that "they will meet on the 15th of July, for the purpose of receiving donations, &c. ;giving the public square $1,000 ; preference for location, &c. ; otherwise at any point in the town plat where $1,000 is subscribed," &c. On the 15th of July, the commissioners met, and adjourned till the 24th of August, to receive donations, &c., for new Court-house.
On the 11th of September public notice is given in the Westerns Aurora and in the Advertiser and
267 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Standard, of sale of contract to build a Court house, to the lowest bidder, on the 5th of October next, &c. Pens Sprague is authorized to get E. G. Carlin. or some other person, to make and draft of a plat for same. This plan as agreed upon, appears on the journal, specifying that the building is to be erected on the west side of Main street and north side of High street, and that $1,000 is to be paid to the contractor on the 10th of .January, 1830, and $1,000 annually thereafter, and all orders to be express1y understood to be paid when due and presented. Edward G. Carlin is paid county order for $10, for making plat of new Court-house and describing timbers, dimensions, &c. Richard House, for assisting Carlin in describing the plan is paid $1.50.
October 5th. The building of the Court-house is sold to John Shaw for $5,485, who enters into bond with Byram Leonard. Philo Norton, Charles Sager. Solomon Geller, Thomas Irvine and H. B. Carter. in the sum of $10,970. Such is the record of the second Court-house built in Mount Vernon, which stood on the public square until 1853. It was built of brick, two stories high, with a cupola., and a very imposing building in its time. It answered well its part for many years--may we not say for that generation, as almost all then upon the stage of action have passed " hence without day." The supreme Court, District and Associate Judges, the Commissioners, Sheriff, Auditor, Assessor, Treasurer, Surveyor, and Coroner, the Contractor and his sureties are all, all dead. Melancholy
268 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
is the reflection that few of the men, who flourished here only thirty-two years ago, now survive.
In 1828, majorities were given for Campbell for Governor; Stanbery for Congress; Shaw for Sheriff; Colerick for Representative; Tracy for Auditor; Sprague and Beers for Commissioners, and Neal for Coroner.
In 1829 the population of the county is stated at 8,326. There were then eight post-offices, viz. Danville, Darling's, Martinsburg, Mount Vernon. Miles ~ Roads and Sandusky ~ Roads in Chester township, Fredericktown and Houck's. .
The state of the County Treasury may be judged of from the following entry, June 7th, 1830, Ordered that the Auditor issue an order on the Treasurer in favor of Daniel Converse & Co., for the amount of principal and interest due on a certain county order, payable to Solomon Geller. for the sum of $275, dated February 10, 1824. endorsed not paid for want of funds by the Treasurer when the said order shall be presented thus paying an old order by issuing a new one . The original debt for building the first court house not having been paid until after the building itself had crumbled and fallen, and the county was compelled to erect a new one.
Artemas Estabrook is at time same time, allowed an order for boarding, bringing up on Habeas Corpus and attending the Judges--Eli Losh-amounting to $11.60.
C. G. Allen makes his escape froni the county all after his board bill had amounted to $8.05.
In 1830, the county went for McArthur for Gov-
269 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
ernor; Stanbery, Congress; Greer, Representative; Neal, Sheriff; Tracy, Auditor; McFarland, Assessor ; Low, Coroner; Wilkins for Commissioner. The total vote cast was 2,086.
During this decade the foundation was laid and the commencement made of that institution of learning which has contributed so much to the advancement and prosperity of this county-Kenyon College. Under its appropriate head we have devoted a chapter to this subject, and hence will say no more here than has reference to the action of the County Commissioners on matters connected with it. On December 7th, 1829, the petition of Philander Chase and others was presented to the Board for the view of four roads. 1. From the junction of Wiggin and Gaskin streets towards James Smith's mill. 2. To Coshocton. 3. To Giffin's mill. 4. Around the foot of College hill south west to Frederick Rohrer s tavern stand. The Commissioners ordered Thomas Griffith Plummer to survey ; and Jonathan Miller, Wm. Marquis and Joseph Critchfield to view. All of these parties are now dead.
270 HISTORY OF
CHAPTER XXI.
LITERARY AND OTHER SOCIETIES.
THE MOUNT VERNON POLEMIC SOCIETY-THE THESPIAN-THE LIBRARY SOCIETY-THE LYCEUM-THE FRANKLIN.-MECHANICS.-HISTORICAL, AND ITS LIBRARY.
THE first society of a literary character, established at Mount Vernon, was the "Polemic Society," in 1815, which was kept up until 1817, and included among its members the more talkative and social citizens. It was converted into a Thespian Society and well sustained for many years. Theatrical performances were generally gotten up every winter, until about 1840, and were very creditable to those concerned. The object was to spend the long evenings agreeably-not to make money. Lawyers, doctors, merchants and students lent a hand as occasion required. Among the active and valuable upon the boards were Dr. R. D. Moore. Philo L. Norton, Jacob B. Brown, Charles Sager. J. W. Warden, Wm. Bevans, Chas. Colerick, B. S. Brown, T. G. Plummer, Jacob Davis, S. W. Hildreth, Wm. Smith, S. W. Farquhar, Eli Miller, N. N. Hill, T. W. Rogers, Henry B. Curtis, Isaac Hadley. John Colerick, J. S. Banning, and Calvin Hill.
The exhibitions were usually at the court house. or at the "Golden Swan Inn." The clothing. equipment's and scenery, were of very rich material. One of the old actors says-"it was most
271 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
splendidly illustrated with gorgeous paraphernalia in most profuse variety and transcends representation."
"The Mount Vernon Library Society" was formed in the year 1816. Among the members of this association were Joseph Brown, Hosmer Curtis, R. D. Moore, Gilman Bryant, Timothy Burr, Daniel S. Norton, John Warden, Samuel Mott. H. Curtis was its last Librarian. It had a very good. collection of standard works, which, in the end. were divided among its stockholders.
"The Mount Vernon Literary Society" organized in the winter of 1821-2, by a number of young bachelors of the town, to wit : Dr. Norman Murray, David Wadsworth, Henry B. Curtis, John W. Warden and James Beebee. Members subsequent-lv admitted-Benjamin S. Brown, S. Farquhar, N. N. Hill and Samuel R. Curtis. The organization existed for several years. The society fell through by reason of the young men becoming absorbed in the more active duties of life.
"The Mount Vernon Lyceum," in 1830, was formed and well sustained for many years. At the session of the Legislature, 1833-4, it was incorporated, and high hopes were entertained of its being a permanent organization. "We have before us the inaugural address of Henry B. Curtis, Esq., delivered January 1st, 1834, in which he says "We have now assumed a different and more imposing attitude. Having adopted a public charter, we from this time become a part of the history of the State. And let us at least hope that the account which its faithful pages may hereafter give of us
272 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
and of our transactions shall be such as would not make us blush, could we be permitted to see them." May the hope of President Curtis be gratified; for, although the Lyceum has long since consigned to the "tomb of the Capulets," and the greater portion l of his associates have departed hence without day, he yet lives to " be permitted to see" " the account which the faithful pages of history"-our history of Knox county doubtless predicted-" gives of its transactions."
It was the best literary association and the longest lived ever in Mt. Vernon. It continued in successful operation until 1842, and numbered among its active members many of the best citizens of Knox. Its regular meetings were held at the court-house, and the public generally and ladies particularly attended its sessions. and of our transactions shall be such as would not make us blush, could we be permitted to see them" May the hope of President Curtis be gratified for, although the Lyceum has long since been consigned to Literary essays, orations and discussions were the chief entertainment.
Among the number of those who have died we may name Benjamin S. Brown, David Dunn, John A. Holland, S. W. Hildreth, M. A. Sayre. Daniel S. Norton, T. W. Rogers, W. A. Hoey, T. G. Plummer, and Dr. M. L. Bliss.
Among those living in other parts, Wm. Byers, J. F. Kinney, J. C. Hall, G. Hathaway, J. W. Chapman, H. Curtis, J. B. Foster, E. Sparrow, D. C. Dunlap.
Among the survivors in this county are C. Delano, M. H. Mitchell, J. W. Miller, Henry B. Curtis, Rollin C. Hurd, J. S. Davis, J. N. Burr.
The Lyceum established a very good library of several hundred volumes.
273 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
In 1834, a "Mechanics" Society" was formed, which continued till 1840, and enlisted J. B. Brown, G. C. Lybrand, E. Ailing, D. McFarland, Abel Hart, and pretty much all the workmen in this vicinity.
In 1839, a society called the "Franklin" was organized for mental improvement, by John Lamb, Robert Thompson, Ben. McCracken, W. H. Oldham, Isaac J. Allen, W. P. Griffith, W. T. Curtis, J. S. Thomas, and others, which was well sustained for three or four years, and then went down.
In 1850, Zoar Blair, Noah Hill, Robert Thompson, Dan. Clark and Sam. Davis started the Mechanics" Mutual Protection, which after two rears, was merged in the Brotherhood of the Union, and continued till 1854.
In December, 1849, several gentlemen of Mount Vernon set about getting up a Historical Society for Knox county, and in January, 1850, a constitution was drawn up and signed by Hosmer Curtis, Gilman Bryant, Joseph Muenseher, M. E. Strieby, Jesse B. Thomas, James Scott, Daniel S. Norton, M. H. Mitchell, Henry B. Curtis, R. C. Hurd, R. R. Sloan, A. Banning Norton, C. P. Buckingham, G. W. Morgan, C. Delano, M. W. Stamp, Walter Smith, N. N. Hill, G. Browning, Matthew Thompson, J. C. Ramsey, J. N. Burr, S. Israel, J. W. Vance, W. H. Smith, J. C. Stockton, D. Potwin, J. W. White, J. H. Peacock, W. Beam, Samuel Mower and John W. Russell. H. Curtis was elected President; G. Bryant, V. P.; R C. Hurd, Treas"r; Cor. Sec"y, Rev. J. Muen-
274 HISTORY OF
scher, D.D.; Recording Sec"y, Rev. M. F. Strieby; Cabinet-keeper, R. R. Sloan. Among other standing committees were the following: on Agriculture, M. H. Mitchell; on Manufactures, Daniel S. Norton; on Mechanic Arts, C. P. Buckingham; on Fine Arts, H. B. Curtis; on Education, R. R. Sloan; on History, R. C. Hurd; on the Medical Profession, J. N. Burr, M.D.; on the Clerical Profession, Jos. Muenseher, D.D.; on Diseases, J. W. Russell, M.D.; on Population, S. Israel; on General Biography, A. Banning Norton; on Geology and Mineralogy, Prof. H. L. Thrall, M.D.; on Meteorology, Rev. Prof. Geo. Dennison; on Literature, W. H. Smith. Twelve years have passed by, the society long since was numbered among the things that were-and this comes the nearest to being a report of anything that yet has emanated from any of its members. Following in its wake, however, is an institution which it is to be hoped will long continue in existence-"The Mount Vernon Library Society," which has collected, through the instrumentality, principally, of the Rev. Dr. Muenscher, its learned Librarian. several hundred volumes of valuable standard works, and may serve as a nucleus for a future large collection. It was started in 1856, and its rooms are in Huntsbery"s building, Main st., Mount Vernon,
HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY 275
PICTURE OF HON. ANTHONY BANNING
Chapter XXII
276 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
AMONG the old settlers whose names have figured conspicuously in the history of Knox county, was Anthony Banning. Connected with the business, the growth and prosperity of the county at every period of its history after the first, and concerned as he was in various industrial pursuits, in commercial operations, in temperance movements, in church affairs, in political actions; and as his name has been widely known in legal history, his memory is worthy of more than a passing notice. "Judge" Banning as he was called more frequently than "Parson," notwithstanding his monument states that he was a Methodist preacher sixty years. was born in Talbot county, Maryland, and was the only son of James Banning, a proprietor of much consideration and influence, who had but two children, the son, James Mansfield Anthony Banning, and a daughter who married Benjamin Chew. of Philadelphia, Chief Justice of the State of Pennsylvania, a lawyer of much distinction and a man of great wealth, who was a bosom friend of Washington and whose family were his most intimate associates.
His parents died when he was very young, and he was consigned to the care of an uncle, Henry Banning, a bachelor, who was a sea-captain and took Anthony with him several voyages. The family were members of the Episcopal church, but in his eleventh year Anthony joined the Methodists. When about sixteen he went to preaching as a circuit rider in Grecubrier, Virginia, and the wilderness mountain region. In consequence of the great length of his name, and its inconvenience
277 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
in writing, he dropped a portion of it in early youth. He married Sarah Murphy, daughter of one of the first settlers on Redstone, near Uniontown, Pa., who was also a native of the Eastern Shore of Maryland, and had been raised near Ellicott"s mills. The children, by this marriage, were Sarah, wife of Daniel S. Norton; Jacob M. who died in 1835, and whose widow and children reside in Hardin county; Rachel, wife of Rev. Elnathan Raymond; James S.; Mrs. Mary Caswell; Elizabeth, Mrs. Bronson; Priscilla. Mrs. Gray, and Anthony.
After his marriage he settled in Fayette county, Pa., and resided for several years near Mt. Brad-dock and in Connelsville, where he preached the gospel. carried on a tanyard, kept a store, officiated as a justice of the peace, (from 1790 until 1799) traded in stock of every description, and navigated the western waters.
During his residence in the Keystone State slavery existed there, and this good man thought it no sin to better the condition of negroes by holding them in bondage. Twenty-eighth family slaves of the Maryland stock were thus held at his marriage, and he subsequently bought Hannah, Peter, Jim, Cass and George, in Virginia.; and in moving west sold them to Daniel Rogers and Abraham Baldwin, two of the most respectable and worthy men in that country.
In one of his trading expeditions on the western rivers he sold a load of goods to Ebenezer Buckingham, of Putnam, for the fine farm now occupied by Nicholas Spindler, Esq., hi Howard township. He made several trips up the Muskingum
278 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
with goods and wares from 1808 till he moved out in 1812. After he had bought lands in the county he traded a lot of iron, leather, saddlery, &c., to Samuel Kratzer, Esq., for the principal part of his interest in the town of Mount Vernon, and then took up his residence here. During his long abode he was engaged, as elsewhere, in a diversity of pursuits; and by reason of his remarkable energy, industry, prudence and business tact, prospered in all and enjoyed, to a very great extent, the confidence of the people. He was for the greater part of his life concerned in merchandizing at Mount Vernon, Tymochtee, Danville, &c. carrying on his mills at Clinton and his tanyard, farming extensively and preaching.
His name is found as President of the first Clay meeting ever held in this county; he was all his life an ardent admirer and friend of that great statesman and patriot. In principle, politically. he was a Whig-religiously, a Methodist-strictly moral and temperate-in all the relations of life a good example.
He was honest and conscientious-liberal and kind hearted-determined and resolute-never disguised his sentiments or harbored unkind thoughts; was not a fanatic in temperance, morals, politics or religion; but by his well balanced mind and daily walk exerted a great influence for good.
Among other public, positions held by him was that of Commissioner to select the permanent seat of justice of Clermont county, under act of the General Assembly, January 25th, 1823, associated with John C. Wright, then of Jefferson, and James
279 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Clark, of Stark. He served as one of the Associate Judges of this county from 1827 to 1834.
In every public enterprise and work calculated to benefit the town, county and people he was active, liberal and useful. Among the many incidents of his life the following most clearly shows the liberality of his mind: In 1836 he set about erecting a church near his residence, and upon his own land. The neat brick edifice had been in-closed and about completed, when the Rt. Rev. Bishop Purcel visited Mt. Vernon for the first time, and there being no Catholic church the followers of that denomination, of whom there were but two or three families then in the place, to wit-David Morton"s, Wm. Brophy"s and Tim. Colopy"s, requested the use of one of the churches for the Bishop to hold service in on the forenoon of a certain Sunday. The favor was denied. An effort was then made to procure the use of the court house. and that too was refused.
The writer. then a small boy, having heard the circumstances on his way home, stopped in at Judge Banning's and stated what had occurred, when he at once buttoned up his vest and coat, took his cane, went up to David Morton"s, where the Bishop was staving, and tendered the use of the Banning Chapel for Catholic service. The offer was most gratefully and graciously accepted, and the first Catholic discourse ever delivered in this town was pronounced at the Banning Chapel. This, in the eyes of many bigoted and intolerant minds, was a very great sin; but the religion of Grandfather Banning was of that catholic spirit which
280 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
enabled him to do acts of kindness and pour Out heart offerings as becometh a true christian. And here we will record that this "bread cast upon the waters returned again after many days" in like spirit.
In February, 1844, Judge Banning was drowned in the dam of the Clinton Mill Company, when attempting to cross upon the ice to his farm, after some infernal fiend had burned up the Norton street bridge. His body was soon recovered and great efforts were made to resuscitate life, but in vain. He was in his 76th year, and remarkably vigorous and robust for one of his age.
The Catholic sect having increased to a considerable number, and having, by liberality of our citizens, erected a neat brick church, Bishop Purcel again visited Mt. Vernon to consecrate it-and most happily referred to the circumstances at tending his first visit and the charitable and brotherly kindness of Father Banning, and devoutly offered up his supplications to the throne of mercy in his behalf. The incident was a most affecting one. and the eyes of many were suffused with tears as their supplications were offered up.
281 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXIII.
RICHAND COUNTY DURING HER TUTELAGE.--DIVIDED INTO TWO TOWNSHIPS.--THE EARLIEST SETTLERS.--VOTERS.--OFFICERS AND MATTERS WORTH REMEMBERING.
IN pursuance of our purpose, as expressed on page 26, we devote a few pages of our history to the earliest matters of record on our journals in regard to Richland county. The Commissioners of Knox, on the 8th of June, 1809, declared the entire county of Richland a separate township, which shall be called and known by the name of Madison. At the present time a township of this name exists, and Mansfield, the flourishing county seat of Richland, stands therein. At the election of 1809, that whole region polled but 17 votes, and in the year following there were but 19 votes. The vote in October, 1811, for Representative, stood, Jeremiah R. Munson 14, Wm. Gass 3; Sheriff, Ichabod Nye, 17; Commissioner, John Kerr, 17; Coroner, Dr. Timothy Burr, 17. The Judges of election in 1810 were James Copus, Wm. Gardner, John Foglesoug; Clerks, John C. Gilkison, James Cunningham. In 1811, Winn Winship and John C. Gilkison, clerks, certify as to the full vote of Richland. Among the names of these early settlers will be found several with whom our readers were acquainted in the olden time; we give them- Moses Adzet, George Ackley, the Baughmans,
282 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Jacob and John Coon, Andrew Craig, Thomas Coulter, James Black, Hugh and James Cunningham, John Crossen, the Gilkisons, the Gardners, the Hulls, Moses Fountain, the Lewisses, the McClures, the Murphys, the Newmans, Pearces, Olivers, Wm. Lockard, Jacob Shaffer. Joshua Rush, Sam. Martin, the Slaters, Zimmermans. John Wallace, Joseph Middleton, James Hedges and Rollin Weldon.
The first Justices of the Peace were Archibald Gardner, elected in May, 1809; Henry McCart, in 1810; George Coffinbery and Peter Kinney, in 1812; James McClure and Andrew Coffinbery, in 1814. The whole return on the tax duplicate, in 1811, was 73 horses, 121 cattle and one stallion, valued at $150, and taxed at $35.
A rib is taken out of the side of Richland on the 7th of January, 1812, as the following entry on the Journal of the Commissioners explains : " Ordered, that Madison township be divided as follows, to wit : The division line of the township should 1)c one mile east of the center of the 17th range, in the lower township, and shall be known and designated by the name of Greene." Brief entry that-is it not, for the formation of a township within the lines of which we now find the better part of Ashland county and some of the best lands in Rich-hind. Whether it was named after the Rev. John Green, who had just been licensed to marry. "this deponent saith not," as the books show not, but we presume, as our people were eminently patriotic, that it was named after General Nathaniel Greene, one of the heroes of our revolutionary war. The
283 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Mohican river passes through this township on its way to the Gulf of Mexico via the Walhonding, Muskingum, Ohio and Mississippi rivers. In the olden time men did navigate this route, if we are to put implicit confidence in traditions of the dead past. We have a work published several score years ago which asserts that "it is navigable (except being obstructed by dams) most seasons of the year." Beaver dams, it is presumed, or some other dams, usually obstruct. The Judges at the first election were Melzar Tanneyhill, Isaac Pierce, Samuel Lewis, and the clerks Peter Kenny and Thomas Coulter. Melzar Tauneyhill received a $6 county order for listing this township. At the election April 6, 1812, at the house of Abraham Baughman, jr., Philip Seymour, Henry Seymour and Martin Rufner, whose adventures with Indians have since been so widely known, were among the voters. John Murphy, Henry Naugh, John Pool, Wm. Slater, John Totten and Ebenezar Rice were other voters. Among the settlers, in 1811, were Josiah L. Hill, Trew Petee, Wm. Brown, John Shehan, Ahira Hill, Asa Brown, Jeremiah Conine, Lewis Crossen, Stephen Vanscoyos, Noah Custard, David Hill, Moses Jones, Silvester Fisher, John Crossen, H. W. Cotton, Lewis Pierce and Adam Crossen. The poll-book for the township of Greene, in the county of Knox, October 13, 1812, "shows 41 voters, but the names of Seymour and Rufuer are lacking. The 11th of March, 1812, Knox Common Pleas Court allowed Greene township three Justices. Perryville was the principal business point, and the Browns W. & A. were the first mer-
284 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
chants, and for many years the leading business men.
On the 10th of April, 1812, a petition of citizens of Richland was presented to the Commissioners of Knox for "a road beginning at the house of James McClure in said county, and run the nearest way to a mill seat belonging to Amoriah Watson; the same be granted, and Jacob Newman, George Coffinbery and Wm. Gass were appointed Viewers, and W. Y. Farquhar Surveyor of the same."
In February, 1813, Thomas Coulter, Wm. Gass and Peter Kinney were elected Associate Judges by the Legislature. Winn Winship, the first Clerk of the Court of Richland county, wrote an excellent hand, and was a quick business man. Several of his certificates are on file in our Clerk"s office, containing election returns, &c., with a hole cut through a piece of paper showing a wafer, the county having no seal. The entire vote of Richland, October 12, 1813, for Representative was: Wm. Gass, 31; Sam. Kratzer, 14.
Mansfield was determined upon as the seat of justice of the county, April 2d, 1809, by Jno. Heckewelder, John M. Connell and Moses Ross, Commissioners. Wnn Winship was the first Post master at the town; and among the early tavern keepers known to our citizens was Capt. Sam. Williams. Jabez Beers was appointed lister of this county in 1812. Until after the war of 1812, there was not much improvement in the county. A very large proportion of the early settlers were from Knox, and throughout our history the people
285 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
have been quite intimate, and lived together upon the most friendly terms.
We have much material that we would hike to present; but as the history of our sister county and its affairs do not, from the period to which we have carried this sketch, properly belong to our enterprise, we close by giving a view of the Mansfield Female Seminary, whereof Rev. C. S. Doolittle. AM., and J. Lindly, AM., are Principals; and inasmuch as the former is a native of Knox, and a son of one of our old teachers. it will not be thought out of place to say that here young ladies can acquire an accomplished education upon very reasonable terms.
286 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXIV.
SOME ACCOUNT OF THR TOWNSMPS SEVERED FROM OLD KNOX.-- CHESTER, BLOOMFIELD AND FRANKLIN--THEIR HISTORY UNTIL MORROW WAS CREATED.
THE territory of Knox remained entire, notwithstanding extraordinary efforts had been made time and again to erect new counties, taking a part of her territory, until, at the session of the Legislature in 1848, Morrow was created-taking from Knox Chester, Franklin and Bloomfield townships.
Chester Township, the oldest of the three, was laid off by order of the Commissioners at their sessIon April 10th, 1812. The first election was held at the house of Wm. Johnson, on the 25th of that month. The Judges of election this year were Joscph Duncan, Henry George, Evan Holt; Clerks, Wm. Johnson and Samuel Johnson. Rufus Dodd, first lister of taxable property, received a $3 county order for his services this year. In addition to the above-named, we find other early settlers to have been Ensley Johnson, John Walker, David Miller, John Parcels, Enos Miles, Robert Dalrymple, Isaac Norton, James and George Irwin, Joseph Howard, Bartlet Norton, and Daniel Kimbel. Moses Morris, Henry George and a few other Welch families, were among the number of the best citizens of this township, and many of their countrymen located
287 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
around them. The greater part of the original families were from New Jersey.
In 1813, at the October election, there were fifteen voters; among them were Joseph, William and Uriah Denman, Sam"l Shaw and Chism May. The vote stood, for Representative, Gass 15; Commissioner, Peter Wolf 9; Sheriff, John Hawn, Jr. 13, Wm. Mitchel 2.
The forks of Owl Creek passing through this township afford several good mill-seats a durable power, and furnish the people with facilities for getting breadstuffs at their own doors. Their lands are generally rolling and very productive. The citizens have ever been distinguished for industry and thrifty management. In 1830, the population was 778; in 1840, it was 1,297; and in 1850, 1,620.
Chesterville, the post-office and business point, was laid out by Enos Miles, deputy surveyor, -. for many years the post-office went by the name of Miles"s X Roads, and the good tavern keeper"s name seemed for a long time likely to absorb the other. It was on the main thoroughfare from Mt. Vernon to Mt. Gilead, and on the old State road from Johnstown to Paris and New Haven; distant from Mt. Vernon 14 miles, from Fredericktown 8, from Mt. Gilead 10, from Johnstown 23, and 30 from Paris. In 1830, it contained 250 inhabitants, 40 dwellings, 5 stores, 1 tavern, 1 flour-mill, 1 sawmill, 1 tannery, 1 church, and several mechanic shops. This village has ever been distinguished for the attention paid to schools, churches, etc., and the general morality of its citizens; of whom we may name the Shurs, the Bartletts, and Hance,
288 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
who have been heavily engaged in merchandise and trade, Abram King, Dr. Richard E. Lord, Dan. Miles and Judge Kinsel.
Evan Holt, as a revolutionary soldier, served six years; was a native of Chester, Pa., emigrated to this county in 1808, and lived for 39 years on land received for his services. He also was a pensioner until his death, in his 84th year, leaving a large family married and settled around him. Evan. Jr. was a great fighter-possessed of bone, muscle and pluck; he fought in Morris township, about 35 years ago, a fist fight with John Magoogin. where he displayed uncommon skill. They had a difficulty at a camp-meeting over the creek, on James Smith"s farm, and then made up this fight. to come off at the first big muster at the Cross Roads, by Wm. Mitchell"s. A great crowd witnessed it. Magoogin was a stout and brisk man of much courage; he died a soldier in the Mexican war. The fight was conducted fairly, and Magoogin carried the palm.
The Dalrymple family is one of the most respected, of whom Charles has long been a good justice of the township.
The poll-book of Chester in April, 1824. concludes as follows :-" We certify that John Stilley had 26 votes for Justice, Wm. W. Evans 26. Decided by draught in favor of John Stilley. John DeWitt, John Beebee, Jas. McCracken, Judges: Enos Miles, Jas. F. Clapp, Clerks. We therefore do certify that John Stilley from Arrangements was duly elected a justice of the peace for Chester township, this 1st Monday, April, A. D. 1824."
289 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
SUCCESSIVE JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
1812. Wm. Johnson. ..............................1833. Enos Miles.
1817. Rufus Dodd. ...............................1836. " "
Joseph Denman. .......................... 1839. " "
1819. W. Van Buskirk. ............................ 1836. Byram Beers.
1822. " .................................1839. " "
1820. Enos Miles. ...................................1842. " "
Daniel Beers. ...................................... 1845 " "
1823. " ...................................... 1835. Henry De Witt.
1824. John Stilley. .................................... 1838. " "
1826. John Beebee. ................................. 1842. P. B. Ayres.
1829. " " ..................................... 1845. " "
1832. " " ........................................ 1843. Thomas Peterson.
1827. Moses Powell. .................................. 1846. Davis Miles.
1830. " " ....................................... 1844. Charles Dalrymple.
1833. " " .......................................... 1847. " "
Franklin, the most extreme township in the north-west corner of "old Knox," before she was shorn of her fair proportions by the erection of Morrow, was first known December 3d, 1823, by being created and named after the philosopher, statesman and printer, Benjamin Franklin. The first election came off on the first Monday of April, 1823, at the house of Thomas Axtell. The principal place of business is Pulaskiville.
Jamestown was many years ago a famous business place, projected by Allen Kelly, Esq., who emigrated from Northumberland county, Pa., at a very early day, and has ever been a prominent stock raiser and farmer. David Peoples, David Shaw, Wm. T. Campbell, Washington Strong, the Petersons, Hickmans, Blairs and Van Buskirks were among the early settlers. Of these Abraham Blair, of Perth Amboy, N. J., settled in 1811 upon the farm on which he died, in his 90th year, on the
290 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
2d of October, 1846. He served as a minute man during the Revolutionary War, and participated in the battles of Trenton and Monmouth. He was a good citizen, and much respected.
David Shaw served his fellow-citizens over twenty-one years as a Justice of the Peace, and was also Commissioner of the County nine years. He was a very clever, quaint old gentleman, whose name is ever associated with Franklin township affairs affairs.
Colonel Strong was noted as a military character, and a democrat. His patriotic party ardor sustained him in walking all the way from home to the State Conventions at Columbus. and back again. And speaking of democracy reminds us of the zeal of Joshua Bickford, who, for many years. was one of the shining lights of Franklin. One little incident is worthy of note. He was selected once upon a time as Chairman of a County Convention, and among other business was the appointment of delegates to a district convention to be held at Johnstown to nominate a candidate for Congress. One of the legal gentlemen of the party arose. and moved the appointment of a committee to select delegates to the Congressional Convention. &c. President Bickford put the question-" Gentlemen. all you in favor of the motion just made about delegates to the Congregational Convention will say aye." The gentleman who made the motion sprang to his feet somewhat excited, exclaiming, "The Congressional Convention," I said. "Exactly," said the President; "You've heard the motion, Gentlemen: the Congregational Convention I said.
291 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
and I say it again, and I know what Mr. M---- said, and what we all want-we want democrats to congregate at Johnstown, and it is a Congregational Convention." Joshua was in earnest in whatever he undertook, and seconded by the efforts of Lieut. Bernard Fields usually carried his points. He was noted as tavern-keeper, merchant and horse-trader. and was always "bobbing around."
In addition to the prominent citizens enumerated as having held official positions, we may mention the Swingleys, from Hagerstown, Md., Sam. Livingston, Henry Weatherby, Anson Prouty, Wm. Fans, Wm. Gordon, Benjamin Corwin, Alex. Wilson, Jonathan Olin, Wm. Layering, Caleb Barton. H. P. Eldrige, C. Sapp, Wm. Linn, B. O. Pitinan, David Ewers, Ebenezer Hartwell, B. and E. Lyon, Ben. Hathaway and Thomas Morrison.
In 1830, Franklin had over 16,000 acres of land upon the tax list, and the census then showed only 800 inhabitants. In 1840, the inhabitants numbered 1,343, and in 1850, 1,456.
Upon the organization of this township, Wm. Van Buskirk, a Justice of the Peace within the territory, who had been re-elected in 1822, continued the functions until again elected in 1824. In 1824, John Truax was elected. In 1827, David Shaw was elected, and subsequently re-elected over and over again; and when the township was carried into Morrow county, it took the old Justice along to keep it straight. H. W. Strong was elected in 1834, and re-elected in 1837. Wm. Van Bus-kirk was elected in 1840, re-elected in 1843, and
292 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
again in 1846; and during his term of service the connection with Knox was severed.
Bloomfield Township was created June 23d, 1817, and received its name in this wise: Several of the settlers were at the house of Sheldon Clark early in the Spring, talking about the new township, when John Bliun called attention to the coming of flowers upon the beautiful mound that they stood upon, and suggested that, as the field was in bloom, it should be called Bloomfield, which was accordingly done.
Benjamin H. Taylor was the first lister of property for taxation and made his return June, 1818, receiving an order for $5 for his services.
The family of Artemas Swetland emigrated to this State in 1808, and in 1812 located in this part of the county, where their name has ever since existed.
The next earliest settlers were the Clarks, Walker Lyon, Preston Hubbell, Seth Nash, John Helt, Wm. Ayres, John Blinn, Dr. Bliss, Samuel Whitney, Lucius French, Stephen Marvin, Samuel Mead, Lemuel Potter-all industrious and substantial men. The Clarks-Roswell, Sheldon and Marsha], were sons of Daniel Clark, of New Haven co., Ct. Lyon, Hubbell, Nash, Whitney, French, Marvin and Mead, were also from that county. Helt and Ayres were from Washington co., Pa.
The first post office established was called Clark"s X Roads, at the intersection of the road from Johnstown to New Haven with the road from Mt. Vernon to Delaware-a central point-being 13 miles from Berkshire, Mt. Vernon, Chestervile
293 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
and Johnstown. The post office was subsequently styled Bloomfield.
The next was Sparta, upon the old State road from Mansfield via Frederick to Sunbury and Columbus. It is considerable of a trading point. From 1810 to 1850 much mechanical and manufacturing was carried on. Benjamin Chase erected quite a large woolen manufactory and ran it for several years; upon his death the works stopped. Charles Osborne was the last at the business; he moved to Mt. Gilead and has since gone west, somewhere. Elisha Cook now operates a steam saw and grist mill in the old factory buildings.
In 1817 there were only 16 voters. In 1840, the population had increased to 1,252; and in 1850, 1,395.
Of the first settlers Sheldon and Roswell Clark, Walker Lyon, Stephen Marvin, Samuel Mead, A. W. and Giles and F. M. Swetland are yet living.
Roswell Clark came to the country in 1816, with his wife. They have had three children-Daniel, now in Xenia; Eliza married John Barr, in Bloomfield; Rev. Wesley died at West Liberty, two years ago, aged 46 years. He was a preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a man of much worth; his widow and children live in Bloomfield. Sheldon Clark was married when he emigrated, in 1819, and has two daughters- Victorine P., married Floyd Sears; and Rebecca Jane, C. B. Jackson. Preston Hubbell is dead, and his three children are in the west. Lucius French is dead; his son, Andrew, and daughter, Emeline, live in Bloomfield.
294 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
John Helt survives with two children-Casper. a son, in Bloomfield; and Lafayette, a soldier in the army. Wm. Ayres is dead, and left no children. Walker Lyon, in his 73d year, is in Bloomfield with his son, Smith. He has two daughters living-Harriet, wife of Rowland Rogers; and Sally Jane, wife of James Howe, of Fredericktown. Samuel Whitney died leaving two children--Wheeler, in Bloomfield ; and Samuel, near Berkshire. Seth Nash is dead, and his children, three in number, are in the west. Artemas Swetland is dead; his three boys-Augustus W., Fuller M., and Seth, and his daughter, Mrs. Wm. Shurr, are living. Lemuel Potter moved into Bloomfield in 1819 from southern Ohio ; he is dead, and left eight children-Cassandra lives in Bloomfield, Lemuel, jr., in Urbana, and two of the boys are doctors in Wayne.
Among the early items of this township was the separation of a man and wife, by public notice given, as follows : "By mutual consent James C. and Rebecca Wilson, of Bloomfield township, Knox county, have this day (Oct. 21st) agreed to dissolve as being man and wife."
Stephen Marvin is living. He had three children; two survive-Charlotte, widow of Wesley Clark; and Eliza, wife of Dr. Page.
The first brick house in this township was built in 1823, by Roswell Clark, a two story building in which he has so long resided. The first frame house was the two story frame in which Sheldon Clark resides, built in 1828. Prior to these houses they, like other settlers, lived in log cabins. The
295 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Clarks burnt the first lime in this township on hog-heaps. The price then was fifty cents per bushel unsacked-just double the present rate. Since that they have burnt many kilns, and made their support and fortunes. For many years they furnished the greater part of the lime used at Mount Vernon for building and other purposes.
Among the objects of sympathy, at an earls- day, was Samuel Collinfare, a poor little hunchback and ricketed spinner, who traveled from house to house and spun for the citizens. He was a native of the Isle of Man, and made his first appearance about 1819. The dwarf never would work for wages, but for clothes and food-was good society-well informed and ever cheerfully greeted where he called. A few years since E. W. Cotton, obeying the prompting of a generous heart, erected a monument in the burying ground to mark the spot where his mortal remains were laid.
The first church in this township was the Methodist Episcopal. at Bloomfield, on Clark street. as it is called : it was erected in 1839. The next Methodist Episcopal Church was built at Sparta in 1846.
In 1846 the Christian Church was put up in Sparta. These churches are frame buildings. The first preacher in the township was Thomas Kerr, Methodist. A good man-long since departed. About 1817 Rev. -------Cooper, Methodist, officiated in the township ; he is also dead. They were both local preachers.
The Rev.-----Britton, about 1817, preached the Christian or Campbelite doctrine. Rev. James Smith, about the same time, was a voice crying
296 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
aloud in this wilderness the same gospel truths. They also have passed hence.
In 1850 the Wesleyan Methodists erected a small church about one and a half miles west of Sparta, at which the noted Edward Smith preached until he died at Harmony in 1859; his body was interred in the Bloomfield burying ground. The present preachers are John T. Kellum and Wm. Conant, Methodist Episcopal; Rev. - Bainam, Wesleyan Methodist. The last Christian minister was the Rev. J. W. Marvin.
The Rev. - Cleaver, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister of Bellville, occasionally holds forth in this township.
The first white person to die in Bloomfield township was Marshal Clark, brother of Sheldon and Roswell, who died in 1816.
Bloomfield deserves more than a passing notice for the respect shown to the dead. The cemetery is a sacred spot-neat and tastily kept. It is one mile north of Clark street, and contains many neat and costly monuments.
The trustees of the township have, from its first selection, had its keeping in charge, and they deserve credit for its management.
The first store in this township was kept by -Carpenter. The second by Dr. A. W. Swetland, who is vet in business at Sparta.
The other parties selling goods at Sparta are Chase & Co., the brothers Wm., John & E. Byron, L. Swetland, and Antipas Dexter; and a stock of goods is kept at Bloomfield by Mann Lyon.
297 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
Among the residents of Bloomfield are the Con-ways. Widow Charlotte Conway, who died in 1859, moved from Fauquier co., Va., with her sons Joseph, Wm. and John. Joseph married a daughter of Wm. Sanford in 1812; Wm. lives near Mt. Liberty, and John in Knox co., Missouri. The Manvilles, the Barrs, the Sanfords, Lovelands, Sheldons, Burkholders, Searses, Ashleys, Craigs, Throckmortons and Higginses, are also among the well known names.
The Cottons were among the early settlers and as such deserving of notice at our hands, more especially- since the name continues in the county and is familiar to our people. Harris W. Cotton, one of the commissioners of Fayette co., Pa., entered a section of land in Bloomfield, and upon his return home, while preparing to move, died. His sons, Emmet W. and Harris, brought out the mother and family. The old lady died in June , 1851, of cancer. The children were Nancy, wife of James Thompson, in Milford; Mary, wife of Michael Cramer, in Union county ; Pamelia, wife of Elijah Crable, in Liberty ; John W. in West Brownsville, Pa. ; Harris W. who died in Liberty in 1835, Emmet W. in Mt. Vernon; Louisa, wife of Thomas Merrill, who died about 1852 in Columbus, Ill. ; Charlotte, wife of Robert Butler, who also died in Illinois ; and Elizabeth, first wife of M. Cramer, who died in Clinton township about 1833. The main dependence for errands and chores of the family, in early times, was Emmet, who has often carried two bushels of wheat on horseback to Mt. Vernon and exchanged it for one pound of
298 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
coffee. At that time the only improvements on the road to Norton"s mill were, first, a little clearing------Higgins ; the next at the old Norton farm, now owned by Frazier; the next at Chapman's next an old cabin, on the Gotshal place, where -Wolford lives; and these were all on the now thickly settled road from Bloomfield to Mt. Vernon.
Idon V. Ball. born in Brownsville, Pa.. in 1805 married Catharine Woods, of that place : moved to Bloomfield in Sept. 1811, and settled on the place he has since resided upon. He has had one daughter and eight sons ; six of his boys now survive. For twenty years he has been engaged in farming and entertaining the public Many a wayfaring man has fared sumptuously at his stand, and many have been the happy parties of pleasure- seekers from Mt. Vernon and other points, who have been hospitably entertained by Mr. Ball and his excellent lady.
William McKinstry and John Brocaw are among the prominent farmers of Bloomfield, both from Hunterton county, New Jersey, and came to Knox county with the family of Matthias McKinstry, in 1831.
John Lincweaver came in 1827, and still lives in it, with a considerable family. Harvey Lounsbery is another old settler. Antipas and Chauncey Dexter, good millwrights, are also among the present inhabitants.
Thomas Osborne and his wife Olive, emigrated from Rhode island in 1818. He died in 1853, in his 74th year she is at the old homestead. in her 74th year. They had nine children. Those now
299 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
living are all in Bloomfield, but Orilla, wife of Jesse Severe, in Liberty. John H. married Nancy Severe ; James M.., Sophia Thatcher ; Amanda is the wife of David Coyle ; Sarah Ann the wife of John Dustin ; Wm. N. married Harriet Dustin, and George R., Purilla Roberts. The old gentleman had been a sailor and soldier, and did good service in his day and generation.
Samuel Westbrook was a good rough carpenter and joiner ; he moved to Michigan, and is now dead. The Westbrooks were among the old settlers of this township ; none of the name now live in Knox county.
An aeronaut, by the name of F. H. Westbrook, met with a terrible end on the 4th of July, 1862.There was a large concourse Of people at Sparta, in commemoration of the national anniversary, who were addressed by Rev. Mills Harrod, W. L. Bane, and A. Banning" Norton, and at 5 o"clock P.M., as previously announced, a balloon went up with Westbrook to the distance of perhaps five hundred feet, when it burst in pieces and fell to the earth, killing the reckless navigator. It was a miserable rotten old fabric, and was the most foolhardy operation we have ever witnessed. About three thousand people were estimated to have been present, witnessing the sad termination to an otherwise joyful occasion. What a sudden transition from life to death ! Within five minutes of the time he ascended, waving his hat amid the hurrahs and shouts of the people, he fell a corpse, leaving a wife and several children to mourn his exit. For their benefit B. L. Swetland at once
300 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
started a subscription, which was liberally responded to by good citizens.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
June 23d, 1817, the Court of Common Pleas allowed Bloomfield one justice, to be elected at tIe house of Timothy Smith, and Matthew Marvin was chosen in 1818.
1819. Walker Lyon. 1824. James Thompson.
1822. " 1827. R. Clark.
1820. John Manrihlo. 1833. James Thompson.
1823. Stephen Dodd. 1837. John Beebee
1824. David Bliss. 1840. "
1827. John Manville. 1836. James Shumate.
1830. " 1844. Jacob J. Thompson.
1834. David Bliss. 1846. Wheeler Ashley.
1837. " 1848. Charles M. Eaton.
1840. "
1843. Jared Irvine,
1846. "
301 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXV.
SYCHAMORE--AND THE TWO LAST SYCHAMORS.
"SEPTEMBER 4th, 1815, on petition, Morgan township is divided and the east part of it is placed into a township called Sychamore." Such is the brief entry upon the journal showing a name now unknown.
On the 15th of September, 1815, an election was held at the school house, in the township of Sychamore, for the purpose of electing three Trustees and a Township Clerk. Jacob Simons, William Claypool and Jonathan Hunt, sr., were the Judges, and .Tohn H. Simons and Alpheus Chapman, Clerks. William Bair, Jonathan Hunt, Jr., and Lemuel Chapman were elected Trustees and John Mott, jr., Clerk.
At the election on the 10th of October 17 votes were cast, and among the number we find Riverius Newell, Otis Warren, Samuel Rowley, Gideon Mott, Riverius Newell, Jr., Aaron Hill, Abner Hill, Alpheus Chapman and James Miller.
Of these parties but two now live, viz: Aaron Hill and Jonathan Hunt; both over . fourscore years on earth.
The name of Sychamore, as a Township, is known to scarcely a man in the county at this time. When, or how it came to be lost the records give no information, except in the little extract at the head of
302 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
this page; there is no mention of it on official records.
Of Jas. Miller"s family-J. W., the old merchant in Mt. Vernon, who married Mary Bryant; Madison, of Miller, who married Mary Hams; Henry H., John F., Dr. Volney and Dana, were the boys. Mrs. Rosannah Sanford, Mrs. Harriet Knox. Mrs. Sally Sanderson and Mrs. Lucinda Ellis are living. and Mary- is dead. The Chapmans, Motts. Warren, Bair, Siinons, Claypool and Newell, have not one of their blood within the county limits. In 1812 Riverius Newell and Aaron Hill were blacksmiths in Mt. Vernon.
Jonathan Hunt, born in Somerset co., N. J., Oct. 23d, 1780, moved from Western Virginia to this county in 1806, and settled where he now lives. He learned the trade of wagon making of his father, and also worked as a. gun-smith, and at this day works at the latter branch. After he located he did much work for the Indians, until the war broke out. In August, 1812, he started with the troops, under Maj. Kratzer, for the frontier, and Upon reaching Mansfield was set to repairing guns with Andy Blair, from Belmont co., at $1 each per day and regular soldier"s pay. They put up a little shop at. Ben in"s mill, on the Rocky Fork of Mohican, and he recollects that Rufner called to see him the morning of the day that he was killed by the Indians. He was working there when Copus' family was attacked and Copus killed. After three weeks work he rejoined the company, and continued with them until discharged. When he first settled in this county he went to Bowling Green,
303 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
below Newark, and bought grain and got it chopped there; and he afterwards went to Kerr"s mill with his grist. When he moved here he had but one child, and his wife has had 11 children-four of whom are living in Pleasant township, and one in Illinois. In 1822-3 Jonathan lived in Mount Vernon and worked at wagon and plow making, &c. His wife, Honor Wells, born in Washington co., Pa., and of the old Wells awl Dodridge families so widely known, is yet living in her 79th year.
Aaron Hill was born near Boston, Mass., emigrated to this county in 1811, and shared in the privations and toils of life in a new country. During his long residence he has worked as a carpenter and joiner, a blacksmith, and a farmer, and has. with true Yankee instinct, lent a hand at whatever work the wants of the country required. At the advanced age of 81 years he resides in Mt. Vernon, spending the evening of a well spent life in the society of friends. Of his family of five, Norman N. is the sole survivor. These twain-the last of the Sychamores-may their days be many in the land they sought out more than a half century ago.
304 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXVI.
MIDDLEBURY TOWNSHIP.
ON the 3d of December, 1823, this township was established, and the first election was held at the house of Luther Bateman, in April, 1824. It is now the north-west corner of Knox, and on the score of improvement, the beauty of the country, and the intelligence of its inhabitants, ranks first. Its principal settlers at every period have been Friends, from Maryland and Virginia; and the influence of the Quaker element has been highly salutary. The increase of population and wealth has been steady. In 1830 the inhabitants numbered 705, and the amount of land returned for taxation was 13,000 acres; in 1840 there were 1,002 inhabitants; in 1850, 1,092; and in 1860, 1,040. The villages of Batemantown and Waterford are points for trading operations; the latter is quite a thriving little town, having the advantage of mills in its neighborhood. Here Josiah Fawcett and John Layering for many years were rivals in business, competitors for the post-office, and the prominent men of their respective parties. When the Whigs were in power, Josiah held the post-office; and when the Democrats ruled, he was out and John in. The post-office and its name were mooted
305 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
points in Middlebury. The Laverings were old settlers of this section. Of the old stock, Daniel and Mary were here in 1813 she died October 24, 1846;. aged 85. Several of the name are in the county at this date ; John is yet selling goods at Waterford.
Samuel Wilson and Thomas Townsend emigrated from Frederick. Md.. in 1808. The former is dead. and his son ;Joseph resides m Indiana ; the latter died March 18. I859. aged 78, on the farm where he had resided over fifty years. Amos and Wm. Farquhar were early Maryland emigrants. and David and Robert Ewers from Virginia. The Wrights and Lewises, David Eaves, Jacob Zulman. Samuel Willett, the Comforts, Jesse Vore, Jesse Stevens the Batemans, the Cravens, the Wagoners, the Grahams. the Fiddlers, the McPhersons, the Van Buuskirks, the Walterses, have been long residents of this township. Josiah Fawcett, the old merchant, is in pertnership with his son, in a store in Fredericktown
Among the citizens of this part of the county in 1819. were William Watkins, from Stoney Creek, Somerset, Co. Pa.; Warren Owen, from Vermont. who emigrated about 1817 ; Philo Doohittle and Zebulon Ashley, also from New England. Asahel Ashley, only son of Zebulon, is living in Missouri and his son-in-law, Frisbee Owen, also lives there.
Charles Strong emigrated from Frederick co. Md.; he died in 1850. Mrs. Strong is living. Of their eight children. the following survive G. W.
306 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
and Lewis, at Fredericktown ; John W.. sheriff of Richland county ; Peter, station agent, BellvilIe and Mrs. Mary Parke, of Mt. Vernon.
The Denman family is one of the oldest and best in Middlehury and Chester. James Johnson, the old Justice, died a few years ago, leaving a considerable family in this township ; his son Orlin is a prominent citizen. Lawrence Van Buskirk; is an- other noted citizen, having served as State Senator. James Martin and his family have long occupied a front position among the good citizens; he has lived in the county since 1841.
Jacob Ebersole was an eccentric old settler, of miserly disposition, who lived close and mean to accumulate money to look at. After or his death. over $2000 in coin was found hidden away by him some under an old anvil block in a smith shop, and another lot in an old chest, under some rubbish.
SUCCESSIVE JUSTICES OP THE PEACE.
The first Justice in 1821 was James Johnson. Who was regularly re-elected and served until 1818. The second was James Graham, elected in 1831. and served three terms. In 1842 Stephen McPhierson was elected, and re-elected in 1845. Ezra Marvin and Johnn W. Loofborow were elected in 1848, and re-elected in 1851 ; G. Wash. Ewe'rs and Thomas Craven in 1852 ; Daniel Ayres in 1855 and at the same time J. D. Burke, who was reelected in 1858, and again in 1861; Isaac Lynde in 1858, and re-elected in 1861.
307 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXVII.
BERLIN TOWNSHIP.
This township received its name from some of its earliest settlers having emigrated from Berlin, Connecticut. It was created March 9th, 1825. Stephen Cole proposed the name. Among the first voters were A. H. Royce, Ed. Richardson, the Markleys, George Wolford, James Traer, John Brown, Sr.; Jno. C. Brown, John and Peter Keregher, Fred. Ogg, Jeremiah Brown, Richard and Asael Roberts, John Long, Jacob Leady, Joseph Lane, Daniel Hedrick, the Joslins, and John Moltzbaugh.
Palmyra, during the days of our vassalage to stage and wagon transportation, was its sole town, and for many years a noted place of refreshment for man and beast, voyaging by mud or snow from Mt. Vernon to Mansfield. Since the construction of the railroad, it has dilapidated.
The township in 1830 had 520 inhabitants, and11,671 acres of land were entered on the tax list, at a value of $3I,724. In 1840, the population numbered 1,100; in 1850, 1,156; and in 1860. 1,012.
Ankenytown, or "Squeal," as it is more commonly called for the sake of euphony, is noted from the fact that when the steam-horse first made his
308 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
appearance there, his "squeal" so terribly alarmed the natives that they came out armed with capapie with gun and blunderbuss to capture him, and some worthy German denizens attempted to stop his travel on the iron track by tearing up the rails; the history of which fully and at large appears in the records of Knox Common Pleas.
Shalerville, so called from Shaler's Mills, is quite a trading point, where Henry W. Greggor officiates as Postmaster and Merchant.
Among the earliest settlers in this township were the Robertses, Richardsons, Wrights and Farquhars-all Friends, and from Maryland ; the Browns, Pinkleys, Leedys, Hedricks, Coles. Wm. Van Horne. Peter Wolf David McDaniel and Henry Markley, an intelligent Pennsylvania German, and his brother-in-law, Michael Harter. Markley had been a merchant, and was a quick and sprightly business man, and hence was selected for one of the first Commissioners. He was generous, and well liked by the people.
John Lewis and his family, Quakers, were here in 1808. November 11th, 1857, John Jr. died. Casper Fitting, in 1808, lived with his family on the place, since known as the Harter stand. He is dead, and his sons, Frederick and Solomon, are living; the former a successful merchant at Bellville.
The Harters are worthy of special notice. Their tavern, at an early day, was the best in northern Ohio. The old people were kind amid hospitable, and the society of the amiable Miss Christina made it uncommonly interesting for sleighing and other parties. The fame of Aunt Christina"s cookery,
309 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
pronounced by connoisseurs the best, caused travelers to ride long miles after night to get there. The Harters moved to Canton, where some of their descendants reside.
In 1849, a Post office was established at the residence of Richard Roberts Esq., called " Maple Grove," and he was appointed Postmaster, and continued as such till 1860, when it was discontinued by his request.
Among the present settlers, we find Joseph Baker and wife, who emigrated from Virginia in 1819, the Elliotts. Joel and Amos, the Gibsons, the Foots, the Dennises, and the Loves. Amos H. Royce. the first Justice, is yet living in the enjoyment of health and plenty. We can not but commend the character of Henry Miller, Esq., the up- right man Alexander Menzie, the energetic old Scotchman and others we might name, had we the space.
SUCCESSIVE JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
1821. Amos H Royce was elected, and re-elected in 1824,'27,'30,'33
1823. Richard Roberts 1848. George Shaffer
1836. Elijah McGregor. 1849 Gideon Elliot.
1836. George Akney. 1850. Joseph Ankeny.
1839. " 1853. "
1842. " 1852. Michael Hess.
1838. Alex Menzi. 1855. J.C. Autten.
1838. J.N. Richardson 1856. Alfred Royce.
1841. " 1858. Joseph Akney.
1841. Joel Elliott 1859. James Comings.
1844. Richard Roberts. 1859. J.W. Condon.
1845. Henry Miller 1860. George Irwin.
1847. Alfred Royce. 1862. Issacher Rowby.
310 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXVIII.
BROWN TOWNSHIP.
This township was laid out March 9, 1825, and "attached to Jefferson until it shall be ascertained that there is inhabitants enough in Brown to have it organized." March 6, 1826, " ordered by the Commissioners that Brown be hereafter considered a separate and distinct township, and the election be held at the house of Josias Ewing, for township officers. on the first Monday of April, and Jefferson be henceforth attached to Union." The name was given to perpetuate the memory of Major-General Jacob Brown, the hero of Chippewa and Fort Erie, who had but recently become commander-in-chief of the U. S. Army.
The first post-Office called Phifer's X Roads, was where Brownsville now is, and of late has borne the name of Jelloway, after the stream of this locality.
The present merchants are, Wm.. Patton, Sam'l Beeman, Pinckley & Watz ; doctors, E. Booth, L. D. Whitford ; wagonmakers, Thomas Thompson. Emanuel Storer; blacksmiths, Smith & Hagerman, D. Thompson ; tailor, F. Schuch ; shoemakers, E. Waddle, W. Stull and Knee ; tavern, Mrs. Phifer: tanner, Henry Frazier ; gunsmith, Henry Raisin; grocer, J. H. Burriss. The Methodists have a meeting-house, wherein Rev. Mr. Ball preaches.
In 1840 the inhabitants of Brown numbered 1,201; in 1850, 1,535; and in 1860, 1,440.
311 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
The most numerous families in this township are the McKees, Waddles. Halls and Blairs, descendants of early settlers, who cleared the way for the present.
Charles MeKee emigrated from Ireland, with fourteen children about 1808. Alexander McKee settled in this county in 1809 he resides on his old place on Big Jelloway, where was once an Indian camp; and when he first settled there, sixty-five Indians called at his hut, drank metheglin with him and they had a jovial time all round.
The Halls, Sovernses, Pinkertons, Waddles, and Stewards have a1so been plenty in Brown. John Craghnan (pronounced Carnahan) was a wild Irishman of much note about 1826; he was a warm-hearted impulsive creature; and "faith, an' he was a knowledgeable man" Many anecdotes are quoted of him, which we have not room to produce.
Jacob Phifer from Strasburg, Germany, located in this township in 1818, when all was wild and new. He died Oct. 9, 1846, aged 89. He had served ten years a soldier in Europe, three years in the Revolutionary War, and three months in the war it 1812. The old soldier was the father of Freeman. John, James and Michael.
James Blair, our old friend, "God bless you," Was one of the early stock. In 1816 he tended the old Shrimplin mill; moved to Brown in 1820, and has been one of its most prominent men, having served as justice long enough to entitle him to vote, and his decisions have been generally approved of by his fellow citizens. He has been engaged in
312 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
milling, farming, raising children, writing "poetry" and making himself generally useful. His memory will endure in Brown forever.
Zephaniah Wade, who commanded a company of Riflemen from London Co., Va., in 1777, moved to this county in October, 1816, with his son. Thomas. Zephaniah and his wife, Irene Longley. are both dead. J. J. Skilling"s has been one of the most active business men.
There have been a few small mills on Big Jelloway from its early settlement, but the want of water, during the year, has caused some of them to suspend. Emor Barrets grist mill was built about 1833, and is yet in operation. It is run by an overshot wheel 16 feet high. Thomas Wade has a saw mill 2 1/2 miles above it run by an over shot wheel 30 feet high. A set of carding machines have also been run at this stand. The mills of James Blair, Ab. Whitney, and Joseph Hall have gone into dilapidation and decay.
Jacob Roof and his wife Polly, Jacob Darrow and Wm. Prior, Jacob Baugh, Daniel Worley and Richard Deakins, were old settlers.
SUCCESSIVE JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
Samuel Barkhurst was the first, and Josias Ewing succeeded him in 1826.
1830. James McMillen re-elected in 1833
1831. James Blair; re-elected in 1834,37, 40, 43, 46, 49.
1837. Thomas Wade ; re-elected, in 1840, 1844.
1845. John W. Guberson.
1846. Wm. Soverns; re-elected in 1850.
1850. Joseph Pinkley; re-elected in 1853 nood 1857.
1852. Solomon C. Workman.
1854. John Hicks.
1856. J. W. Leonard ; re-elected in 1859 and 1862.
313 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXIX.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP.
THE township bearing the honored name of President Jefferson, after having served a tutelage of several years composing a portion of the bailiwick of Brown, is, in 1829, at thee March term Of the Commissioners, declared a, "distinct Township," and an election is ordered for township officers the 1st Monday of April 1829, at the house of Andrew Lockard. Its Metes and bounds had been prescribed on the 9th of March 1825. but from lack of population an organization was not then effected. The Mohican river passes through this township, furnishing several mill seats. In 1830, it contained ;311 inhabitants in 1840, 994 in 1850, 1,484 and. in 1860, 1,458. In this as other eastern townships. the names of a few families predominate. The Geers, the Critchfields. the Sapps, the Hibbitses, the Frosts, the Schultzes, the Bakers, are to he met with on almost every hill. The Critchfields and Sapps we have elsewhere spoken of. The Greers are mainly descendants of that noble old patriarch John Greer, who was a native of the Emerald Isle. and was what is called an Irish patriot. Possessed of a powerful Constitution and vigorous intellect, he took a prominent position
314 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
among the pioneers hee was particularly efficient in the in military line, and raised a company for service in the war of 1812. He did much too promote the formation of companies in the eastern townships. He was from 1812 too 1817 collector of taxes in 1830 Representative, and for many years Justice of the Peace, and during his life a very useful citizen. For thirty years some of the Greer family have officiated as Justices in this township. Among its most valued citizens have been Alexander, late County Treasures and father of the present Treasurer, Robert, Richard, Silas, Mark, James, "Big Jim" and "Little Jimmy." Capt Jack Melton, Aaron Mathene, Andrew McKee, Ephraim McMillen, Jacob Shiner and George Greer, were also old settlers.
Jacob Colopy has resided in this township Since 1825. He is a son of Timothy. it native of Ireland, who emigrated from Virginia in 1813. Jacob married a daughter of George Sapp, in 1825 They have eight children-five now living in eastren part of Knox. John Hibbets, Joseph Critchfield, Josiah Trimbly, Matthew Davidson, Charles Miller were also much respected.
In this township there are two post offices-- Greersvile and Nonpareil. Greersville was established about 1848. and the post masters have been Robert Greer and Alexander Greer. Nonpareil is at Mt. Holly, and was established ill 1849. Its post masters have been Robert Long, A., Gardner, John Critchflield and A. Gardner.
315 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
In earl times there were many insects and reptiles of great annoyance to the early settlers. Among other evidences of the fact is the following comical affair related by a citizen of this township. Old John Daily and Alex. Darling got up a bet of a quart of whisky about the ability of a man to stand black ants, ticks and all else, save gallinipers, without flinching. Daily, accordingly, too show it could be done, stripped off his clothes and laid down on his face in the sand, where the ants were thick, and Darling was to keep the gallinippers off. After laying there several minutes Darling let three or four gallinippers on his bare back, but Daily did not flinch for them--then determined to win his bet he whispered to one of the spectators to bring him a coal of fire, which was got and put on him, but Daily let the live coal roast his flesh for fifteen minutes without ever flinching, and with his muscles firm bore it together with the ants and gallinippers until the half hour was up, and won the quart of whisky.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE
1825. Jas. Henderson. 1855. Robert Greer.
1829. " 1838. Josiah Frost.
1829. John Greer. 1854. "
1832. " 1857. "
1835. James Greer. 1837. James Witherow.
1838. Joseph Sapp. 1840. "
1840. James Greer. 1843. "
1842. Alex. Greer. 1846. "
1845. " 1857. James Greer.
1848. " 1858. Charles Miller.
1849. Robert Greer. 1861. Charles Miller.
1852. "
316 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
CHAPTER XXX.
MONROE TOWNSHIP.
THIS township was created March 9th, 1825, and favored with the name of President Monroe. The surface of the country is broken; it is well watered and thickly timbered; and its citizens have generally been noted for their unflinching democracy and their strict attention to home affairs. The population in 1830 was 437, and the acres listed for taxation 13,455. In 1840, it contained 1,258 inhabitants; in 1850, 1,324; and in 1860, 1,084.
The principal Place of business is Monroe Mills, where Davis and the Boyntons for many years sold goods, bought produce, and had a post-office established in 1849. Schenck's Creek, passing through the east part, has on it several saw and gristmills. At a very early period James Smith ran a mill upon it; and Jacob Davis, another very useful citizen, erected and operated until his death a good mill, which is yet carried on. This stream took its name from Gen. W. C. Schenck, who owned the lands subsequently improved by Captain Coleman. David Johnson, the Irelands, and others. In 1817, he sold a large part of his tract to various settlers, who made substantial improvements.
The Colemans were early settlers. Joseph emigrated from Fayette county, Pa., in March, 1806.
317 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
and lived that year south of Mount Vernon, across the creek, and the next year moved to the place where he died, in 1830, aged 56. Of his children, Ichabod is the only one now in this county; Joe is living in Nebraska, William in Indiana, and Jess. is dead.
The Rev. William Thrift and his family were also among the earliest and best settlers.
Charles Lauderbaugh, of Pennsylvania, in 1828, emigrated to this township, and resided there until his death, in 1854. He had 12 children; now living, John, Henry, Andy and Jesse, Nelly, Mrs. J. Myers, Louisa, Mrs. C. Wolverton, Rachel, Mrs. Wm. King, and Rebecca.
In the list of justices, will be found the names of other respected families; the Dixons, Scotts, Clementses, Beck., Adamses, Irvine., Boyntons, Hutchisons, and Craig. will long be held in remembrance, if not perpetuated by resident descendants in future years. And tho calculation would not he complete without enumerating the family of our old friend Bill Dowds, whose standing salutation is, "What"s the calculation?" There were also Sam. and Elijah, and their families; the Marshalls and Gilcrests.
Peter Skeen emigrated from Montgomery county, Pa., in 1827; he died in 1855, aged 71. He was an intelligent and industrious citizen.
The Young were among the early settlers of this township. Isaac Young was born in Fairfield county, Connecticut, in 1760, and served in the Revolutionary war; in 1790 moved to Uniontown, Pa., where he lived for many years, and from thence
318 HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY
to Ohio in 1830, and to Monroe in 1836, where he resided until his death, in 1842, at the age of 82 years and 19 days.
Col. H. H. Young, of Fayette county, Pa., was born in 1794 ; married Rachel Shipley, and moved to Washington county, Pa., and from thence, in 1835, to where he now resides. he is the father of five boys and five girls. Colonel Young, for his ardor in Democracy and Methodism, his hickory pole raisings and marshalship of Democratic processions, will never be forgotten by those who witnessed his zeal in the campaigns of 1836. '40,' 44.
Col. John Armstrong, a very estimable gentleman from Jamaica, who died in 1855 Lemuel Holmes, another good man, now living in Iowa: David Hunt, the Berrys, the Barkers and the Millers, for many years resided in this township. The name of Hull is also of long standing.
SUCCESSIVE JUSTICES OF THE PEACE.
1821. Thos. Dixon 1856. Joseph Hutchison.
1824. " 1859. "
1826. W. Beck. " James Hutchison
1831. Thos. Dixon. 1836. M.N. Scott.
1834. " 1839. "
1838. " 1843. "
1843. " 1846. "
1840. Joseph Adams. 1849. "
1841. Jos. Coleman. 1852. "
1844. " 1846. R.S. Clements.
1847. " 1849. "
1850. " 1852. "
1851. Isaac Irvine. 1855. "
1854. John Craig. 1858. "
1855. Henry Boynton. 1861 "